and the fire is not quenched." Whence is it, then,
that, without any apparent concern, we behold myriads of immortal
creatures fast hastening to these regions of destruction? Whence is it
that there is so much apathy, lukewarmness, and indifference to a
brother's eternal welfare. Is it not too often, perhaps, that there is
a latent scepticism which induces us to disbelieve the solemn
declaration of the Omnipotent--even when he swears by himself--that
every jot and tittle of his threatenings shall be accomplished? Surely
were it not for some such spirit, we should never rest satisfied with
the feeble efforts we may have made to lead the sinner back to his
offended God; we should esteem no sacrifice too great, whether of
time, or influence, or money, or talent, which could in any way
promote a brother's spiritual welfare. But we are too apt to forget,
if not to disbelieve, the solemn declarations of the bible; and
forgetfulness to all practical results is as pernicious as downright
infidelity. The man who forgets God is as little influenced by his law
as the fool, who in his heart says there is no God at all. Now, this
forgetfulness paralyzes our energies, damps our zeal, checks our
benevolence. We do not consider that sinners are heaping up wrath
against the day of wrath; and, though they may now enjoy an unhallowed
prosperity, and now in an unbridled licentiousness derive happiness
from the indulgence of fleshly lusts, yet that these war against the
soul, against its present peace, and its ultimate felicity, and that
ruin and destruction inevitably await them. Were our spirit that of
the psalmist, or that of the prophet referred to, our feelings would
be more lively, our endeavours to promote the good of mankind be more
energetic. Looking not every one to his own, but on his brothers'
good, we should be anxious to direct their feet into the way of peace.

How beautifully was this spirit manifested by St. Paul, when he
exhorted the converts of Philippi to be followers of himself--"For
many walk," says he, "of whom I have told you often, and now tell you
even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ; whose
end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in
their shame; who mind earthly things." The apostle, indeed, appears to
have been influenced by the same anxiety as the psalmist and the
prophet; for the glory of the Redeemer, as well as the eternal welfare
of their souls, was dear to