486 CHrZiSTIAN MÓRALTTI', VIZ. jS1:RM. tixxt: It is true, the apostle tells us, if we would utterly se- elude ourselves from all manner of converse with persons of ill character, we must abandon society, and almost go out of the world, 1 Con v. lo. But the meaning of the apostle, when be bids its avoid evil companions, is, as much>as possible, to shun their company ; see there fore that it is a necessary call of providence leads you amongst them ; otherwise abstain. Those who give them- selves up to be entertained by every one that will enter- tain them, those who will walk with every companion, and will herd with every drove, they are in danger of being corrupted with anyvice, and of learning every ill principle. But if through the grace of God, we should escape the infection, of error or sin, yet we shall lose our good name by keeping ill company. A delight in base and worthless companions, will make the world judge that we are like them : Whereas we shall gain a part of the good character of our associates and acquaintance, and derive honour from them, ifwe are so happy as to have friendship and intimacy with persons of piety, learning and virtue. May thesebe the friends of my choice, and my companions for ever ! V. Abstinence from the utmost bounds of things law- ful, is another practice of good report amongst rnén. It is but a narrow line in many cases, that divides between a lawful and a sinful practice; and if we will venture, as near as possible to the very borders of what we think lawful, we shew too great an inclination to the bordering iniquity, and we-shall often be in danger of treading on forbidden ground. If we indulge the love of pleasure, or give an unguarded loose to any unlawful passion, we shall find it difficult to with-hold the violence of corrupt 'nature from transgressing the lawful bounds. If a wild horse be indulged in his career, it is well if he does not break the reins, and fling the rider. It is a foolish fancy to walk upon the edge of a precipice, unless we could infallibly secure Our head from giddiness, or our feet from stumbling. It is much safer therefore to keep a proper distance from fatal danger. The world will give us but an ill character, and sayvery justly concerning us, that we are not much afraid of vice, if we dare rashl:' venture into temptation:
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