462 CHRISTIAN MORALITY, VIZ. [SEAM. %xVIIf. our conduct, when we teach and instruct them, not like sovereigns of their faith, and dictators to their under- standing, but in a way of friendly conversation, and mutual improvement. If any thing occurs to be de- bated, it is a sign of modesty to yield to the force of ar- gument, and not to resolve before-hand to be infallible and obstinate, as though we were exempted from the common frailty of human nature, and free from all pos- sibilityof mistake. While we are arguing with others, in order to con- vince them, how graceful a thing is-it, whenwe have the power of the argument on our own side, to keep our- selves from insult and triumph. How engaging a be- haviour toward our opponent, when we seem to part as though we were equal in the debate, while it is evi- dent to all the company, that the truth lies wholly on our side. Yet I will own there are seasons, when the obstinate and the assuming disputant should be made to feel the force of an argument, by displaying it in its victorious atìd triumphant colours : But this is seldom,to be prac- tis'ed, so as to insult the opposite party, except in cases where they have shewn a haughty and insufferable inso- lence. Some persons perhaps can hardly be taught hu- mility without being severely humbled; and yet where' there is need of this chastisement, I had rather anyother hand should be employed in it than mine. IV. Meekness is another of the lovely graces. This is contrary to wrath and malice, and all the angry pas- sions, as humility stands in opposition to pride. As there are generally some secret workings of pride in the heart, when a man gives indulgence to his wrathful passions ; so where a person has thoroughly learned the practice of humility, the grace of meekness is easily attainedy, and indeed it seems to be a necessary consequent of it. How lovely is the character of a man, who can hear himself censured and reviled, without reviling again ! Who- can sustain repeated affronts, without kindling into flame and fury ! Who has learned to bear injuries from his fellow- creatures, and yet withhold himself from me- ditating revenge ! He can sit and hear a strong opposi- tion made to his sentiments, without conceiving an af- front: He can bear to be contradicted without resenting:
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTcyMjk=