SEAM. XXVIII] CHRISTIAN MORALITY, &C. 455 The things that are lovely, are such as look well among men, and have a good appearance in the eyes of the world : Those things that gain the love of our fellow- creatures : Not merely such religious practices, as make us beloved by fellow-christians, but such a temper and conduct as commands the esteem and respect even of the ungodly, and those that profess not strict religión. This ought to be the carriage of the saints of the Most High, they should practise those things that are grateful and pleasing to "human nature, so far as innocence al- lows : those things that may recommend our conversa- tion to our neighbours, and procure the love of all men. Is it not a very desirable thing to have it said of any particular christian, all that know him love him ; he .bath no enemies but those that are unacquainted with him, unless it be such as hate him upon the same ground as the devil doth, and that is because of his piety, and goodness ? But to explain this more fully, and impress it with more power upon every one of our consciences, I will descend to particular instances of a lovely carriage. And here I shall mention but these few, viz. prudence, moderation, humility, meekness, patience, and love. I. Prudence is ,a lovely quality. This teaches us to speak every word, and perform every action of life at a .proper time, in the proper place, and toward the proper person. It is prudence that distinguishes our various be- haviour toward our fellow-creatures, according to their different ranks and degrees among mankind, or the dif- ferent relations in which we stand to them. It is a very desirable excellency, to knowwhen it is proper to speak, and when it is best to keep silence ;, at what seasons, and in what company we should awaken our zeal, and exert ,our active powers; or when we should hide ourselves, or put a bridle upon our lips, and sit still, and hear. Prudence is of infinite use in all the affairs of life and religion : Nor is there any hour of the day,, nor any place wherein we spend that hour, whether alone or in public, but gives occasion for some exercise of this virtue. It does not belong to human nature to possess this in per- fection : Perfect prudence dwells with God alone, God the most lovely ofbeings : He that comes nearest to it, is the wisest of men, and he gains' the love and highesteem G4
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