The Fifth of January

ALL THAT LIVE GODLY --- 2 Timothy 3:12

"All that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12. The world hated them because they are not of the world. John 17:14.

The children of God do not love and please the world, and are often times greatly afflicted on account of abounding wickedness, and particularly the profanation of the Lord's name. Now, when you can like the world, and the world can like you, there must be much worldliness in you; for the world loves its own.

Many pretend to be Christians, but they will not endure persecution. Instead of this they blame others for too much rashness, and not acting prudently enough to avoid the mockings and hatred of the world.

Therefore, they propose to take wiser measures; and, in order to do more good, take great care not to be despised or rejected; but under this pretence of wisdom and prudence, very often lies concealed a dangerous love of the world and fear of man.

Be thou nobler minded, live as Christians indeed, and be not ashamed to bear the cross of Christ. "The disciple is not above his master." Has eternal love, wisdom, and power endured the contradiction and reproach of sinners? Thou shouldst be wiser than him indeed, if thou couldst escape the reproach and hatred of the world.

May but his grace my soul renew,
Let sinners gaze and hate me too;
The word that saves me does engage
A sure defence from all their rage.