those whom we fancy our inferiors in faith or practice? What are we, that we should despise the ignorance, or insult the weakness, of those who have never enjoyed our advantages, and are yet, it may be, more acceptable in the sight of God? What are we, that we should be so tenacious of our dignity, so covetous of human applause, so violent under the least suspicion of contempt or injury, so implacable when offended ever so slightly? Do we believe that all we are, and all that we can hope to be, is the gift of God: that we were called out of nothing by his creative power that the faculties of which we boast, are derived from him: that, without his constant protection those faculties are useless; and, without his constant blessing, life itself a curse? Do we believe that sin had degraded our nature, and blasted our fairest hopes: and that we differ from those, whom we are so ready to reprobate and despise, only by the mercy which has stopped us in the path of death, and led us by a gradual, though often imperceptible, advancement in that of

eternal

eternal life? Then, let our conviction be proved by the meek and gentle spirit of the Gospel. When we repeat the humble confession of St. Paul," by the grace of God, I am what I am;" let us not belie it by our conduct; but let us show, by the forbearance and humility, which become us as creatures and as sinners, that the feelings of our hearts correspond with the language of our lips.

Having pointed out the principle, upon which Christian meekness is founded, I come to the manner in which this virtue should be exercised. And here, it is necessary, to obviate an objection, alleged by some characters against it, as though it were inconsistent with active exertion for the good of others, as well as for our own moral and intellectual improvement. But this is to mistake indolence for humility; and a selfish unconcern for the welfare and happiness of our brethren, for that quietness of spirit, which is as incapable of doing, as patient in suffering an injury. Let those who entertain this idea, reflect on the examples which the scriptures propose,

as

as objects of our reverence, and models for our imitation. Let them remember the spirit and conduct of St. Paul, who, while he esteemed himself" the least of all the apostles," sacrificed with unquenchable energy, his talents, his faculties, and his life, to the service of mankind. Let them remember the touching and sublime self-devotion of the Son of God: of him, who said, "blessed are the meek:" of him, whose " love was strong as death," and "whose meat and drink it was to do the Father's will;" while he yet refused the honours of this life, and chose to obey God in his humble station, rather than possess "all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them." Christian meekness, therefore, does not teach us to avoid our duties, but to mortify our pride. It does not teach us to be indifferent to our real welfare, but to subdue the corruptions which oppose it. Convinced then of the reasonableness and necessity of this disposition; in what manner is it to be exercised? It is surely unnecessary to state, that it is quite inconsistent with any

attempt

attempt to injure our neighbour, in his interest, reputation, or happiness. The " envy" that "sickens at another's joy," and the violence which is deaf to the voice of justice and compassion, are not only contrary to Christian meekness, but to the pride of worldly honour. But the sacred principle which our Saviour here enforces, forbids us to seek the emoluments of life with intemperate eagerness, to be anxious for human elevation, and covetous of human applause. The Christian may pursue these advantages as the means of extending his sphere of usefulness, but not as the end of his being. Viewing every accession of fortune or influence, as a call to higher duties and more extended self-denial, vigilance as well as gratitude will be excited in his mind by prosperity; and he will remember that "to whom much is given of him will much be required." This temperate feeling, which is prepared for success, and reconciled to disappointment, will carry him through the changing scenes of life, with

"

that

that true and tranquil dignity, which is not inconsistent with humility of heart.

६

The same habit of mind, which moderates the vehemence of desire, and chastens the ardour of pursuit, when we are engaged in the occupations of business or pleasure; will follow us into the more retired walks of life, and influence our habitual conduct towards those with whom we daily and hourly associate. Occasions will often arise, in our intercourse with mankind, when interests will clash, when mistakes will harass, and misrepresentations injure. Here, ample scope will be given for that passive courage, which is the peculiar attribute of Christian meekness. It is neither consistent with reason, nor required by religion, that we should reject the means of self-defence, against those who would attack our life, our property, or even our reputation. The laws of our country afford protection to the meanest of its citizens; and, to apply to them for redress, is a duty which we owe, not only to ourselves but to society. But how many pro

vocations