of his kingdom, can
we expect temporal prosperity? If we refuse to do our duty, can we
expect his presence? These, then, should be the subjects of inquiry,
under such circumstances. In such cases, also, it may be very proper to
observe a day of fasting and prayer.

IV. _Another object of self-examination is, to know whether we are
Christians._ "Examine yourselves whether ye be in the faith." This is a
very important inquiry. It is intimately connected with every other, and
should enter more or less into all. In order to prosecute this inquiry,
you must make yourself thoroughly acquainted with the evidences of
Christian character. These are clearly exhibited in the holy Scriptures.
Study the Bible diligently for this purpose; and, wherever you discover
a mark of Christian character, inquire whether you possess it. You may
also find benefit from the writings of men of great personal experience,
who have had much opportunity of observing the effects of true and false
religion. In particular, I would recommend to you the careful study of
President Edwards' Treatise on Religious Affections. He was a man of
great piety, who had attained to the _full assurance of hope_. He had
also passed through a number of revivals of religion. The work of which
I speak contains a scriptural view of the evidences of the new birth;
and also points out, with great clearness and discrimination, the marks
of false religion. He distinguishes between those things which may be
common both to true and false religion, and those which are the certain
marks of true conversion.

Self-examination, for this object, should be habitual. In reading the
Bible, in meditation, in hearing the word, wherever you see an evidence
of Christian character, inquire whether you possess it. But this is not
sufficient. You ought frequently to set apart seasons for the solemn and
prayerful consideration of the important question,--"_Am I a
Christian_?" A portion of the Sabbath may be very properly spent in this
way. You should enter upon this work with the solemnities of the
judgment-day before you. The Scriptures furnish abundant matter for
self-examination. Bring the exercises of your heart, and the conduct of
your life, to this unerring standard. You will also find much assistance
in this exercise by the use of the following tracts, published by the
American Tract Society:--No. 21, entitled "A Closet Companion;" No. 146,
entitled "Helps to Self-Examination;" and No. 1