Ruth 2

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. II.—How infinite is the condescension of God in taking notice of a poor Moabitish gleaner! Let me then never be proud; for I know not to what straits I may be reduced in life: and never let me be ashamed of honest industry. If the Lord debase me, it is my honour to concur with his providence, and to be content with the least and coarsest crumbs from his hand. In caring for my poor or aged friends, let me with diligence depend on his kindness, and thank him for every circumstance thereof. Whether I am master or servant, let a savour of Christ and religion always attend me; and the law of kindness be in both heart and mouth. If I am a stranger, let me be always humble, mannerly, and thankful. If I am not, let me shew kindness to strangers, especially to those who are such from a love to Christ. Who knows how they may bless, or even reward, me? For the poorest, by their earnest prayers, may return the richest rewards to the most wealthy. The more highly others think of me, let me think the more humbly of myself: and let me always regard my benefactors, and with the utmost care make choice of my companions. A modest, humble, and respectful behaviour, accompanied with a tender regard to parents in age and poverty, is commendable even in the meanest. And, when we go out in the way of duty, depending on God, who knows with what rich blessings we may return loaded? Happy is that family where parents and children mutually vie in deep concern for one another’s real welfare. And comfortably may even the poorest live together if they have but godliness with contentment, which is great gain