MEDITATION LX.

DOCKING SHIPS.

Nov. 4, 1758.

It is requisite at certain times to bring ships in to the dock—that they may be cleaned, caulked, and fitted out for sea again. This is indeed attended with trouble—as guns, ammunition, stores, provisions, and ballast—must be removed, that the ship may easily be got into dock, and a proper inspection made into those places which need repair; and that stores, provisions, and everything needful, may be completed for a cruise or a voyage.

Then how much more necessity have Christians, who steer on a more tempestuous sea than the watery element—to inspect and test themselves! For such serious and solemn work, they should set a day apart for prayer and examination; when, that they may know their situation, they should look into their heart and affections, their life and conversation, their thoughts, the ends and motives of all their actions.

Assisted by the light of revelation, they should see, and comparing themselves with the rule of the word, they should understand—what is wrong, what is lacking, what is decayed, and what is defective. They ought to search into the state of their soul, and the condition of their graces; and also see what sins have been most predominant in them. Surely those who are cast into wicked company, and are daily hearing and seeing sin—have much to mourn over!

Such an exercise is highly requisite in all the candidates for glory. They are also, from the royal treasury of grace—which is stored up in the Son of God—to take in provisions of every kind, and all sorts of armor—such as the sword of the Spirit, the helmet of salvation, the shield of faith, the anchor of hope, and the compass of truth; as they must steer over roaring oceans, struggle through storms and tempests, and fight though foes all along their journey; and thus, spiritually refitted, proceed in their voyage to Immanuel's land!

Back to Meditations 31 to 60