GERM. XXXifi.l THE RIGHT IMPROVEMENT OI LIFE. 163 " But if the characters of a sincere penitent, and a holy christian be found with thee :' if thou art a partaker of the love of God, through the grace of Jesus, then " bless the Lord, :O my soul, and let all that is within we praise his holy-naine," that he has not cut me off in the days of my enmity to God, unsanctified, and uripar- doned ; that he has lengthened out my life and the sea- sons of his mercy, till he has changed my sinful nature, and secured me in the covenant of his grace. " Is life given me as an opportunity of service to my Lord Jesus ? It is he that has redeemed me ; is is he that has laid out his valuable life for me, what shall I do, Omy Saviour, to make some humble returns of ac- knowledgment and love? O let my useless and unser- viceable years be forgiven, and let the remains of life, whether long or short, be all devoted to the interests and hònours of my Redeemer. Were it possible for the saints, after they have dwelt sometime'in heaven, to come down and dwell on earth again, how would they multiply their labours, and lay out their new life in more activity and service for their God and Saviour ? When they :leave found and tasted what a heaven of happiness succeeds the_short labours of life, how would they double all their zeal and diligence, and be grieved they could do Ao more ? When they have .seen and conversed with their beloved Lord, and beheldhim face to face, with how much warmer love would they engage in his ser- vice ? Surely theywould all cry out, that the longest life on earth is much too short to shew their zeal, affection, and gratitude to so divine and glorious a friend. Think of this, Omy soul, and remember, if thou ever arrive safe at heaven, thou wilt wish thou hadst done more for thy beloved Lord here on earth. .. " Is this. mortal life continued to me that I may spread a savour of piety amongst my fellow- creatures, and set a religious example to men ?. Lord, suffer me to do no- thing thatmay lead sinners astray from thee. Pardon all the evil examples I have ever given, and let my future- conduct shine in holiness, as a pattern to those that are round about me. Methinks, I would convince the world that religion, has something excellent and divine in it, . crud encourage them to the .practice of strict godliness, M
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