Numbers 18

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XVIII.—The ministerial work is necessary and important; and the greatest care and diligence is necessary to render a person faithful in it. He must not only put away sin from himself, but take all care to prevent it in others. And extensive is the account that must be given to God, not only for himself, but for others under his care. How needful then is it that all in their stations, particularly parents, masters, and magistrates, should exert themselves to render the ministry comfortable and successful! God will have his servants decently provided for in the church, and in the heavenly state! nor will ever a godly people fail to make a liberal provision for a gospel mintry. But base are the minds of those ministers, who, having a competency, entangle themselves with the affairs of this life, or desire to excuse themselves from being charitable out of what God hath brought to their hand! And may I also, in all this, discern the extensive charge, faithful labours, and glorious rewards, of my Redeemer; and his improvement of all to his Father’s honour and his people’s good!