grace, from the benefits of Christ's blood, and the protection of his mighty arm, is thus laid open to the powers of hell. Let a sense of these things deeply influence our minds, and shew us the unspeakable danger of breaking, by any act or habit of wilful sin, or by the neglect of Sacramental ordinances, our communion with Christ. Let it teach us, that every temptation to sin is a lie, and that the purpose of it is, the destruction of our bodies and our souls; and let it teach us to fear, whenever we harbour unclean or wicked thoughts, or pursue any wicked desire, lest we be putting ourselves in the power of him who, though he may be transformed into an angel of light, and though he may beguile us with bright and pleasing fancies of advantage and of pleasure, can then only be properly regarded, when he is seen in that character in which he now acts, and which he had from the beginning, as a liar and a murderer. In conclusion, I will call your attention to the methods of safety which, with reference to the danger which has now been displayed to you, have been prescribed by St. Paul. "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of Salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication *." May the powerful arm of God shield us from all attacks of the evil one, and preserve us blameless till the coming of our Lord Jesus! Ephes. vi. 11-18. |