I have read of a painter, who being warmly re- prehended by a cardinal for putting too much red in the faces of St. Paul and St. Peter, answered, ' It is to shew how much they blush at the conduct of many, who style themselves their successors.*— Were Abraham, the father of the faithful, now on earth, how would he disclaim all relation to many who call themselves his offspring ! Though there was less grace discovered to the saints of old ; yet there was more grace discovered by them. They knew little, and did much^ we know much, and do little.
PSALM 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep:
for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety. Happy and gracious conclusion of every truly regenerate soul, convinced of an interest in CHRIST, and a personal union with him. The beloved of the LORD shall dwell safely. Isaiah 32:18. REFLECTIONS READER! let you and I never lose sight of the LORD JESUS while reading this Psalm. He is the LORD our righteousness. And, therefore, in all our approaches to the mercy-seat, let us go there in a language corresponding to this, which calls JESUS the GOD of our righteousness. And while men of the world from the world are seeking their chief good, let us desire his favor which infinitely transcends corn and wine, and all the good things which perish in using. Yes! LORD, thy favor is better than life itself. Thou causest them that love thee to inherit substance, and fittest all their treasure, yea thou thyself art their treasure. And oh! thou gracious GOD and FATHER, hast thou in such a wonderful manner set apart one in our nature for thyself? ...
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