he
counsels which are given at such seasons are serious, solemn, and the
effect of love unfeigned. Those to whom they are given commonly view
matters in the same light, and consider them as interesting realities,
when they come to be themselves in similar circumstances.

Have our pious ancestors left ought in charge to us? It concerns us to
consider their counsels and injunctions; and unless we have clear and
strong reasons forbidding, we are bound to obey them.

Children are usually safe in following the last counsels of their
parents. Few who sustain that endearing relation, are devoid of
concern for the honor and happiness of their offspring. However they
may have themselves conducted, while in the pursuit of worldly
objects, or under the influence of appetite or passion, when they come
to stand on the brink of another world, the fascinating charms of
this, lose their power--the infinite difference between time and
eternity appears; and the true value of objects is seen and estimated.
Then the counsel which is given is that of wisdom--it points to duty
--to peace and honor--to joy and glory,

It is further observable that rich promises are made in scripture to
those who honor and obey their parents, and dreadful curses denounced
against those who despise and disobey them. "Honor thy father and thy
mother, that it may be well with thee and that thou mayest live long
upon the earth. This is the first commandment with promise. The eye
that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the
ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat
it." These scriptures are not of private interpretation.

V. Where the blessing of heaven hath long rested on a family, and
religion been prevalent in it for many generations, the right way
becomes comparatively easy. Those born there, grow up in the fear of
God, and are early taught to know and serve him. But how aggravated
the guilt of those who under such circumstances forsake the way of the
Lord--cut of the entail of mercy and entail a curse on their
posterity--shut up the kingdom of heaven against their own offspring;
neither going in themselves, nor suffering those who are entering to
go in?

Lost to the fear of God, such hardened sinners may cry peace, but
there is no peace to them! It concerns them to look to themselves, for
evil is before them! A descent from pious ancestors will not turn away
the wrath of God, from those who harden themsel