SERM. XXX.] COURAGE AND HONOUR. 497 II. A man that has obtained a good report and honour in the world, by many reputable actions, is capable of much greater service both to God and his fellow-crea- tures. If we have gained esteem and reputation among men, they will be more ready to hearken to our counsel, and comply with our advice. We shall have more influ. ence on mankind, both to promote the honour of God, and the benefit of men. A word that we speak, will make deeper impression, and be attended with greater success. A word or a look of Cato among the Romans, would do more to restrain vice, and to shame the vicious, than the frown of an emperor. III. There is so much real and inward satisfaction arises from a good character, obtained by a life of virtue and piety, that a man who knows the pleasure of it, would not renounce the practices which máy attain it. I confess it is a more:-important matter to secure a good conscience than agood name, and to obtain praise in the sight of God, than in the lips of men : But where both these are joined together by the favour of divine provi- dence, our virtue and piety have a larger reward, and our natures are so framed and composed, that we cannot help taking some satisfaction in it. Prov. xv. 30. A good re- port maketh the bones fat; that is, as one expresses it, it revives the heart to such a degree, as renders the body more healthful and vigorous. Methinks those persons have something very degene- rate in them, and their conduct is a little unnatural, who seem to have lost the very desire of a good name or reputation. I cannot but wonder to hear a person boast of his scorn and contempt of it in such language as this; " I will pursue my own designs, I will gratify and please myself, and I care not what the world says of me." Surely if such language did become a christian, the scrip- ture would not be so solicitous to recommend a good name and things of good report. This naturally leads me to consider, what influence christianity has to excite us to the practice of reputable actions, and such ,as deserve honour amongst men. Here we may first take notice, how often the scripture proposes honour as a reward of goodness and virtue. Our Saviour promises it to those that are humble and condescending; " If thou art ready at some entertain- VOL. I. M Ii
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTcyMjk=