holder's mind, as these were labouring without hope of reward," rewards being never bestowed by the those who were without. and affectionately did I k Prince, upon How earnestly often exhort them to consider this, and not deprive themselves of the rich blessings they might have; but some were indignant at the assertion, and seemed to think recompence their due.' They had their recompence however in this, that they were thought highly of, and in many instances more so than the labourers of the kingdom. They were greatly exalted h The righteous God trieth the hearts and reins. Ps. vii. 9. i Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God. 1 John iv. 1. k Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life. Rev. xxii. 14. All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes, but the Lord weigheth the spirits. Prov. xvi. 2. in the sight of men," and no one suspected that they were abomination in the eyes of the Prince. With regard to the children of the kingdom who might look with confidence for the approbation of the Prince," they frequently found a snare even in their holy work. They would give themselves so entirely to it, that they had no time for their own advancement towards the Temple. And of course they found in active service much to harass the mind and irritate the temper, for, besides that it too often happened, that their own m Ye are they which justify yourselves before men, but God knoweth your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men, is abomination in the sight of God. Luke xvi. 15. n Well, thou good servant; because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities. Luke xix. 17. They made me keeper of the vineyards, but mine own vineyard have I not kept. Cant. i. 6. fellow countrymen were injudicious, and failing in many graces and talents that might have been expected from them, P there was all the prejudice and inconsistency of those who were of the world to contend with, and endless misunderstandings and perplexities from many causes, trying to the natural temper of man." It was therefore, difficult for an earnest labourer, when he found time for working on his path, to bring with him that cheerful, calm, and simple spirit, so essential for his undertaking. He constantly found himself unprepared for the task, languid in body, and vexed in mind, and the path would make but slow progress." P We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak. Rom. xv. 1. 4 But Martha was cumbered about much serving. Luke x. 40. In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quiet t True, the labourers at the gate had a sure reward, but they could not enjoy so much of personal intercourse with their Prince, which is the highest description of enjoyment, and only experienced by those who approach very near him. However, he had his purposes to fulfil by this arrangement. It was needful that many should lead an active life in his service; I can only say that those who were called from it," and by providential circumstances, placed in a less bustling sphere, and had a more ardent and unquenchable desire to reach the ness and in confidence shall be your strength. Is. xxx. 15. To him that soweth righteousness, shall be a sure reward. Prov. xi. 18. Draw me, we will run after thee: the king hath brought me into his chambers. Cant. i. 4. u But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself. Ps. iv. 3. I A fellow countrymen were injudicious.. the ugh her utt was |