The Works of Hannah More (Volume 8); Including Several Pieces Never Before Published (Paperback)

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1818. Excerpt: ... portioned to their faith, and accommodated to their exigencies. The treasures of grace, unlike all other treasures, are not to be exhausted by using; but like the multiplication of the loaves, more is left to be gathered up after the gift is used, than was imparted in the first instance. CHAP. XXII. CONCLUSION. OUHSORY INQUIRY INTO SOME OF THE CAUSES WHICH IMPEDE GENERAL IMPROVEMENT. If we, in this favoured country, and at this favoured period, are not as internally happy as we are outwardly prosperous; if we do not reaah that elevation in piety; if we do not exhibit that consistency of character, which, from the advantages of our position, might be expected; if innumerable providential distinctions are conferred without being proportionally improved; if we are rejoicing for public blessings, without so profiting by them as to make advancement in private virtue and personal religion;--should we not diligently inquire in what particulars our deficiencies chiefly consist, and what are the obstructions which especially impede our progress? That middle course which the luke-warm christian takes, he takes partly because it seems to carry with it many present advantages, which the genuine christian loses. This measured conduct obtains for him that general popularity, the desire of which is his main spring of action. He secures the friend VOL. Viii. E e ship of worldly men, because he can accommodate his taste to their conversation, and bend his views to their practices; As he is not profligate, the pious, who are naturally candid, judge him favourably, and entertain hopes of his becoming all they wish; so that he unites the credit of their good opinion with the pleasure derived from the society of the others. A neutral character thus converts every thing to his own profit, avoids the susp...