as great variety as you will find profitable.

2. _Be punctual in attending at the stated hour of public worship._
This, though of great importance, is sadly neglected by most
congregations. Punctuality is so necessary in matters of business, that
a man is hardly considered honest, when he fails to meet his friend at
the hour of engagement. And why should it be thought of less consequence
to be exact and punctual in our engagements with God than with man? The
person, who enters the house of God after the service has commenced,
greatly embarrasses the preacher, and disturbs the devotions of others.
Besides, he shows great want of reverence for the sacredness of the
place, time, and employment. "God is greatly to be feared _in the
assembly of his saints_, and to be had in reverence of all them that are
about him." Always calculate to be seated in the sanctuary a few minutes
before the time appointed for the commencement of worship. As precious
as time is, it would be much better to lose a few moments, than to do so
much injury. But this time need not be lost. You require a little time,
after entering the house of God, to settle your mind, and to lift your
soul, in silent prayer, to God for his blessing.

3. Several things are necessary to be observed, in order to wait upon
God, in the sanctuary, in a proper manner:--(1.) _Go to the house of God
with a preparation of heart._ First visit your closet, and implore the
influences of the Holy Spirit, to prepare your heart for the reception
of the truth, and to bless it to your own soul and the souls of others;
and, if possible, go immediately from your closet to the house of
worship. On the way, shut out all thoughts except such as are calculated
to inspire devotional feelings; and, if in company, avoid conversation.
Whatever may be the nature of such conversation, it will be very likely
to produce a train of thought which will distract and disturb your mind
during public worship. (2.) When you approach the house of worship,
remember that God is there in a peculiar manner. He has promised to be
where two or three shall meet in his name. It is in the _assembly of his
saints_, that he makes known the power of his Spirit. As you enter his
house, endeavor to realize the solemnity of his presence, and walk
softly before him. Avoid carelessness of demeanor, and let your
deportment indicate the reverence due to the place where "God's honor
dwelleth." "Keep thy foot, when thou goest t