thankful for what God in his providence gives you, whether it be more
or less. Attend to what our Lord says, Whatsoever ye would that men
should do unto you, do ye even so unto them. And to his apostle's
direction, Let him that hath stolen, steal no more, but rather let him
labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he
may have to give to him that needeth [Matt. vii. 12.; Eph. iv. 24.].
Follow this advice, and you will soon experience the benefit.


IV. Beware of idleness. This is the forerunner of many evils.
Poverty, disease, disgrace, misery, and too often an untimely death,
are the consequences of sloth and indolence. Yield not to idleness; if
you indulge it, you will find it grow upon you. Therefore, be diligent
and industrious in your lawful callings. It is written in the Bible,
and confirmed by experience and observation, The idle soul shall
suffer hunger, but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
[Prov. xix. 15. & xiii. 14.]


V. Be careful also to pay due respect, submission, and obedience to
your superiors. It is the good pleasure of God that some should be
placed in more exalted, and others in a more humble station. And
it is a proof of his wisdom and goodness. The present state of the
world, and the general good of mankind, render such distinctions
necessary. But whether we are high or low, whether called to command,
or required to obey, our duties and obligations are mutual. It is in
society as in the human body. There are many members, and every member
has its proper place, and its proper office. Let every soul be subject
to the higher powers [Rom. xiii. 1.].