talents more; while he that received but one talent, instead of using, buried it in the earth, did thereby lose all that was given him. By which we are plainly taught, that the spiritual gifts bestowed by our Divine Master, are increased by being properly used; while, if we neglect to use them—neglect the healthful exercise of our God-given powers—fail to practise the revealed laws of heavenly charity, we lose at length, through such neglect and failure, the inclination and power to use them. We show ourselves unprofitable servants, unworthy the powers or gifts bestowed. Hence that Divine decree: "Take therefore the talent from him and give it unto him who hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance; but from him that hath not, shall be taken away even that which he hath."—Matt. xxv. 28, '9.
Yes: The sure and everlasting law is, that heavenly treasures increase with the using. Heavenly dispositions and feelings are strengthened by exercise. Heavenly wisdom increases in proportion as the laws of the heavenly life are religiously obeyed. In respect to spiritual things, therefore, it is given to every one according as he gives; in other words, according as he uses the gifts that God has bestowed on him; agreeable to the Lord's own words: "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, shall they give into your bosom." When we exercise the graces of heaven, we impart unto others of our spiritual gifts; and by the very act of imparting, our souls are opened to a fuller reception of the same gifts and graces. This is one of the laws of our spiritual
