LECTURE VII. ACTS VII. 15. So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he and our fathers. WHATEVER may be the pleasures of sin -whatever may be the satisfactions of ⚫ the sinner, this one thing at least is certain, that the pleasures of virtue are infinitely greater, and that there is no satisfaction like that of doing good. Sin and dissipation may shoot a transient gleam across the heart, which, like the garish festive-lamp, languishes and dies as the oil consumes; but it belongs only to virtue and religion to produce that tranquil and permanent delight, which, like Him, who is the fountain and fulness of joy, needs not the aid of artificial replenishment. The pleasures of sin at best are but of short durationwe hold them with an uncertain tenure, and although in the anticipation they promise much, they are found in the possession to be fleeting and unreal. There is a natural affinity between sin and compunction, and they follow in quick succession, and that which in the mouth is sweet as the honeycomb, turns to bitterness in the belly. So it proved with the brethren of Joseph; great as might have been the gratification they felt in basely ridding themselves of the innocent object of their envy, it was but for a short time, and it cost them many painful after-thoughts, sorrow, shame, and remorse-the bitter fruits of an accusing conscience; and which, purchased at so great a price, no one would think of comparing with that peace, which results from innocence, or to the luxury which Joseph experienced in that scene, in which we left him, when he revealed himself to his brethren as a friend and benefactor, and kissed them all in the tears of ecstasy and love! And as it is pleasurable, so also, as St. Paul saith, godliness is profitable unto all things; not that the apostle means to assert, that it always directly leads to worldly riches and worldly distinctions, but refers rather to those spiritual blessings which attend upon virtue and true religion-comfort in afflictions-contentment with our lot-and peace and joy in believing the promises of God. Yet, most certain it is, that the upright and the religious man will seldom be found in want; so careful is the Almighty to minister to the necessities of his servants, that it formed a theme for the matchless song of David-The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord; and he delighteth in his way. I have been young, and NOW am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.* And reason good, * Psalm xxxvii. 23, 25. |