have every where prevailed, he has felt himself in a state of security; inclosed by divine mercy “on the right hand and on the left;” protected by the power of Jehovah; all things, even the most unruly elements, “working together for his good:” when “the rain descends, and the floods come, and the winds blow,” he hears and sees it all without dismay; nay, with gratitude to his heavenly Preserver; hoping and believing, that the waves of trouble are bearing him to the celestial Ararat, upon which he shall alight, in God’s appointed time, and “find rest unto his soul.” But, in the midst of his satisfaction and joy, there is a consideration, which strikes a damp upon his soul, and fills him with grief and terror; it is, the miserable condition of those his fellow-creatures, who have been regardless of their salvation and have perished: the Saviour “called, but they would not answer;” He assured them of the coming desolation, but they would not take heed; He offered them mercy, but they turned away: and the flood came upon them unawares; and it is painful to think of them, where they now are, and how many they have been. And not only for those who are gone, but for numbers still living, does the charitable Christian also feel: it is not for him to be forward in judging, not for him to condemn; “he hopeth all things, and believeth all things;” but when he sees multitudes around him manifestly walking in the “broad way of destruction,” he cannot help feeling both pity and pain; especially if any of his neighbours or friends be found in this awful state of heedlessness and sin; especially if any who are near and dear unto him. He cannot help grieving for them; they will have, at least, his tears and his prayers. Would that such sinners might feel for themselves, what others feel for them; would that they might turn and live! Their case is not like the case of those who were perishing in the flood; they are not yet consigned to destruction; would to God that they might turn and live! At length, “the waters were dried up from off the earth, and the face of the ground was dry.” “And Noah went forth” out of the ark, and “builded an altar unto the Lord, and offered burnt offerings upon the altar,” in thanksgiving for his miraculous preservation; “and the Lord smelled a sweet savour;” {69} He accepted the incense of the sacrifice, approved and honoured the piety and gratitude of Noah.