340 The proper Improvement S F, R M. virtue, and thereby, when we fail, they fhall XII. receive us intd everlafting habitations. "°Y ' This might be illuflrated in a variety of particular inflances, indeed, in the whole compafs of our worldly affairs, which ac- cording as they are concluded, either minifter to virtue or vice. By the various uncertain events of life, as fome are tempted to differ- ent diflrading pafiïons, to eager anxious de- fire, to fear and forrow, fo there is to better difpofed minds, an opportunity of growing in felf- dominion, in an equal and uniform temper, and a more earneft prevalent delire of true goodnefs, which is immutable in all external changes ; in afilihíons there is a trial and an increafe of patience, which is of fo ll much moment, as to be reprefented in fcripture as the height of religious perfec Zion ; for as the apoftle fames teacheth, chap. i. 3, 4. the trial of faith, by what he calleth temptations, that is, troubles, worketh patience, and if patience hath its perfect work, then are ye perfect and intire, wanting nothing. And, particularly to the purpofe of the text, things which are in their nature good, tending b immediately to the P fatisfahtion and conveniency of life, are to be confidered as talents committed to our truft ; and as they are principally intended by the donor, not fo much for felfifh enjoyment as 2 t0
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