fall, that Nineveh would repent; and hence, the Redeemer was appointed before all worlds; and hence, the repentance of the Ninevites was ordained as the visible means by which they should receive the blessing. For myself, although I do not say prayer is a duty, yet I know it to be a privilege. I have been accustomed to distinguish between prayer, and praise. A heart duly affected by a just sense of the abundant goodness of the Almighty, will sing forth his praises. The soul bowed down by affliction, will pour out its supplications before the throne of the Maker of all worlds, and the unspeakable relief which is thus experienced, is well known to the burdened spirit. Prayer is in various parts of holy writ, earnestly recommended to the sorrowing soul. "Are any afflicted, let him pray." Hence, we may assure ourselves, that the universal Father is not offended, when his children lisp forth their filial aspirations; however puerile their devotional orisons may prove; and, although it is reasonable to suppose, that the source of being will dispose every event, agreeably to his own good pleasure, yet he bends his ear indulgent to our complaints. But lip service only, when the heart is totally unaffected is doubtless, a profanation, and God, himself, hath declared, that such oblations are the objects of his uniform hatred. Thus, Sir, I have expressed my sentiments, in a manner wholly undisguised. Your sincerity, unless authorized, by some proof, I will not permit myself to doubt. I really wish you that tranquillity, of which you are in pursuit. And I am, with due respect, Reverend Sir, Your most obedient, &c. &c. END OF VOLUME I. |