The Duty of Social Covenanting Illustrated and Enforced 2 of 2

But the sure ground of encouragement is, that covenanting is a duty.

If God calls us to it we may trust him with the result. He never 'said to any of the seed of Jacob, seek my face in vain.' Let us trust in him, and go forward.

What, although it may expose us to the reproach of 'mother's children?' What, although it may require us to make painful sacrifices? What, although it may provoke the men of this world to unsheath against us the sword of persecution?

Are these things to be put into the scale and be made to outweigh the command of God—the glory of the Messiah—and the obligation of the church? No: 'let Zion's children be joyful in their King.' Let them 'vow and pay to the Lord their God.'

They should not be the last to bring the King of Israel back. While they testify for the royal claims of Immanuel let them demonstrate the reality of their profession by swearing allegiance to him.

Awake ye sleeping virgins—'Behold the bridegroom cometh.' Go ye forth to meet him. Trim your lamps—and supply your vessels with oil. 'Let your loins be girded and your lights burning.' In a little time you shall realize the fondest desire of your hearts. The crown on Immanuel's head shall flourish.

'The kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ.' 'And let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen.'

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