t is not a vain thing to serve God. Then--(when he maketh up his
jewels) shall ye return and discern between the righteous and the
wicked; between him that serveth God, and him that serveth him not."
In no other way can we serve him more acceptably than by following
Abraham's example--"commanding our households to serve the Lord," and
setting them the example. Whoso doth it, "shall in no wise lose his
reward."

And happy the youth who second the endeavors of their parents to
render them _a godly seed_. Such "will find life and obtain favor of
the Lord." Here, they rejoice the hearts of those who love them, and
smooth the rugged path of age. The years which to others have no
pleasures in them, are not devoid of comfort to those who witness
filial piety and hope to live again in a godly offspring. Such parents
rejoice in death, and their _godly seed_, will rejoice with them
forever, in heavenly mansions.

* * * * * *

SERMON XXIII.

The Blessing of God on Filial Piety.

Jeremiah xxxv. 19.

"Therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, 'Jonadab,
the son of Rechab, shall not want a man to stand before me forever.'"

Israel were greatly depraved before the days of this prophet, who was
sent to reprove and call them to repentance. The prophet faithfully
discharged his trust; but labored to very little effect. The chiefs of
the nation were offended at its warnings and predictions--rose up
against him--shut him up in prison; yea in a dark dungeon, where
he sank in the mire; and even sought his life! He was not, however
discouraged.. He continued "to warn the wicked from his way, that he
should turn from it. None of these things moved him."

This was not the only messenger sent of God to warn that people--he
sent to them all his servants, the prophets; but they would not hear;
The Jews of that age flattered themselves, that God would never enter
into judgment with them. "He might pour his fury on the heathen; but
they should escape--their place and nation would never feel the
effects of his wrath, or become the theatre of his judgments--they
were his people--necessary to his honor--he was their God; and
would continue their God, whatever their character, or conduct."

The prophets warned them of their mistake--told them that the
judgments of heaven hung over them--that their city and sanctuary
would be destroyed, many of them perish in the war, and the residue he
removed into strange lands, t