SERM. XXIX.] A GOOD REPORT, &C. 485 also be some allowances made. for the unhappy engage- ments which may attend some particular callings in the world. Our own consciences must be the final judges in this case :. But let us be faithful and honest, and fre- quently make an enquiry, whether our conduct be regu- lar or no ; and whether it be the necessity of affairs that intrenches upon the seasons of duty, or whether it be a careless indifference of.spirit. Good order in a house- hold, and regular hours for all the duties and enjoyments of life, give beauty and ornament to life itself: Like, a musical instrument, where every string is wound up to strike it's proper note, and the skilful musician keeps his time, how does it entertain the ear with innocent plea- sure, and refresh the heart, when, practised at proper seasons ? Such a family appears like a Bethel, a house of God, and the Lord himselfdelights to dwell in it O may it be my lot and portion always to inhabit in such a tabernacle, till I lay down this body in the dust, and my soul arises to the well-ordered familyof heaven ! IV. Sorting ourselves with the best company is an- other beautiful part of christian conduct, and procures a good report. By the best of company, I do not intend the greatest or the richest, nor the most ingenious and witty; for there are some of these that are vain and vile enough ; but the best in my esteem, are ,those who are most virtuous, most pious, most knowing and wise, or those that, are seeking after virtue; piety, and wisdom. Thus by conversation with the one, we may be always doing good, and with the other we may be always re- ceiving some good. " He that walketh with wise'men, shall grow.yet wiser, but the companion of fools shall be destroyed," Prov. xiii. 20. " Be not deceived, God is not mocked, evil communications corrupt good man- ners," A heathenish poet, and an inspired apostle agree in these words, 1 Cor. xv. 33. If we are engaged much in converse with those that are light, and frothy, and vain, we shall gain the same levity of temper. Ifwe talk much with the profane, we shall be tempted now and then to a profane expression too. "Cana man touch pitch and not be defiled ?" Can'a man pass through the flames, and his clothes not be singed? Neither can those that walk frequently and delightfully amongst light, vain, intemperate persons, escape being defiled by them. 2 i3
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