yonder world as he is in this. If, like the servant of Elisha, our eyes were supernaturally opened, to take a glance within the vail, what a glorious and astonishing prospect would the innumerable host of angels afford us! Then we should be convinced, that, far from being alone, there are unspeakably more for us than against us. Faith supplies the want of sight; is the evidence of things not seen; and, upon the authority of the word of God, is as well satisfied of their existence and employment, as if they were actually in our view. Again, 2 Many of the Lord's people are tempted to think themselves neglected by their fellow Christians, because they are poor: a discouragement for which there is often too much occasion given. But, poor believer, be not greatly distressed upon this account. If your brethren upon earth are too prone to slight you, your heavenly friends are not so proud and foolish. The angels will attend and assist you, though you live in a poor mud-walled cottage, as willingly as if you were lodged in the palace of a king. They are not affected, one way or the other, with those trivial distinctions which are so apt to bias the judgement and regard of mortals. May we take a pattern from the angels! Their whole desire is, to fulfil the will of God; and they account no service mean in which he is pleased to employ them; otherwise, great and holy as they are, they might disdain to wait upon sinful worms. Our vanity prompts us to aim at something great, and to wish for such services as might make us known, talked of, and regarded. But a child of God, if in the way of duty, and in the place which the Lord's providence has allotted him, is well employed, though he should have no higher service than to sweep the streets; provided he does it humbly, thank fully, and heartily, as to the Lord. An angel, so placed, could do no more. This paper will doubtlessly fall into the hands of some who are not believers, but are spending their days in sin. With a word to such as these, I would conclude. To you this is but a dark subject. You have reason to be alarmed: for, be assured, the whole host of heaven is against you, while they consider you in a state of rebellion, against their Lord. They burn with an holy zeal to avenge his cause; and only wait his command to smite you, as one of them smote Herod, for not giving glory to God. Pray for faith and repentance. If you believe in Jesus, and turn from your evil ways, the angels will love you, rejoice over you, watch over you, fight for you, and at last convey you into his glorious presence. March 5, 1777. I am, &c. |