Happy in his own integrity, conscious of the esteem of good men, reposing firm trust in providence, and the promises of God, he is exempted from servile dependence on other things. He can wrap himself up in a good conscience, and look forward, without terror, to the change of the world. One who possesses within himself such an establishment of mind, is truly free. The character of God, as Supreme Ruler of the world, demands our supreme reverence, and our cordial and entire obedience to his will. Neglect of worshiping God is inevitably followed by forgetfulness of God, and by consequence, a loss of the reverence for his authority, which prompts to obedience.
Love is the principal source of other virtues, and of all genuine happiness.
This confidence in God, springing from love, implying cordial aprobation of his character, and obedience to his gospel, is Christian faith. We may be sure we do not truly love him, if we content ourselves with avoiding flagrant sins, and not strive, in good earnest, to reach the greatest degree of perfection of which we are capable. Thus do these few words direct us to the highest Christian virtue. Indeed, the whole tenor of the gospel is to offer us every help, direction and motive that can enable us to attain that degree of faith, on which depends our eternal good. There are many circumstances in our situation that peculiarly require the support of religion to enable us to act in them with spirit and propriety.