as these are patiently endured, as you humbly yield yourselves to the immediate guidance of the Holy Spirit, a sense of pardon is granted, the soul is sustained by the Comforter, the fruits of self-denial are produced, love to God and love to man increase, and a hope and trust in the availing intercession of our Holy Redeemer are afforded, which the world can neither bestow nor destroy.
Christ, in his unutterable love, has set us an example that we should walk even as he walked. He is emphatically described as holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners. May you seriously contemplate the high character set forth in each of these terms; and ask yourselves whether you are really pressing after it. If not, with what hope can you look forward to the final day of retribution. May I feel the force of these reflections, whilst thus, in love, offering them to your serious attention.
Great is the privilege of knowing that we have not a High Priest who cannot be touched with a feeling of our infirmities; but who having been tempted in all points like as we are, yet without sin, is able to succour those that are tempted. It is true wisdom often to call to mind the contradiction of sinners which the Lord Jesus endured, and that for the benefit of each one of us. He was despised and rejected of men;
