1. Before you enter upon a Christian profession, sit down seriously and "count the cost." The want of this makes many look back. Many are carried on by the persuasion of friends, and do not think of the temptations and persecutions they may meet with.
2. Keep close to the communion of God's people. Omissions commonly make way for commissions, Heb. x. 23—-25. "If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them"—vain men, wicked men. Oh, say they, there is a prey for us.
3. "Watch in all things" and "walk circumspectly," as those that have laid their hands to the Lord s "plough." Remember, your " adversary the devil" seeks to "devour" you. Take heed of the beginnings of apostasy. It usually begins in the closet. Then it proceeds to the family. Duty is first slightingly performed; then totally omitted. Then vain company. And then, without a miracle of mercy, the man is gone.
4. Brayer. After all the several pieces of the Christian armour comes this—" praying always"—to buckle on the rest. That will engage God on our side.
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