Hints of the Sacrament, in March, 1749

Having preached on God’s gathering together in one all things in Jesus Christ, I added a meditation on these words, “That we should be to the praise of his glory.” Eph. i. 12. I considered how we might be so. By celebrating his praise with our voices — and by showing forth his praise in our lives. I touched in the former on the error of those who deny singing, and pressed the propriety of allowing a proper proportion of praise in public worship at all times, especially on Sabbath and sacrament days. O that God would give more of his Spirit to excite praise! I then insisted on the duty of showing it forth by an inoffensive, exemplary, and useful conversation. Inoffensive: observe what it is that gives offence and occasions reproach. Intemperance; being absent from ordinances; covetousness; pride; censoriousness. I then urged an exemplary behaviour, so that men might learn by us, and so that, if we were in a country where our language could not be understood, yet that by our good behaviour the natives might learn how they should behave themselves to us. Endeavour to be useful; — do good by diffusive bounty. Many poor want your assistance: give it to them. Do not indulge temptations of a sophistical nature, and so, instead of relieving the poor, find out artful reasons why they should not be relieved. Think of good to be done to the souls of companions; of children; of servants; of friends:

abound in this work, and remember that your opportunities lie but within a little space.

I said but little, particularly in breaking the bread. Before giving the cup, I urged them to lift up their hearts to God, that if he offered it they might see it as offered by his hand, and might take it. May the mercy of the Lord pardon those who neglect his grace.