Let the laity also be reminded of what they owe to God and society at this eventful time. There are various modes by which they can advance the cause of religion. The value of their services in co-operation with the Clergy in forming visiting societies, has been already stated. But as their situation and engagements in life preclude many from taking an active part in any work of Christian charity, it must be a high satisfaction to them who are humble disciples of that blessed Lord, “who went about doing good,” {204b} to have an opportunity of endeavouring at once to follow His example, and obey His commands, by means of public societies and institutions. The best interests of man would be much promoted, if the noble, and great, and affluent in the land, who fear God, would make a more decided demonstration of their sentiments; and give the full weight of their rank and influence, and contribute liberally, to the support of societies, the object of which is the advancement of true religion. In such times as the present, it is awful to witness the apathy, supineness, and indifference in the cause of the Lord, which prevail so extensively in the world, amongst those who profess themselves to be His servants. But disregard for the spiritual wants of others, at all times highly sinful, is doubly so now; and unwillingness, through fear of ridicule or misconstruction, to manifest a warm zeal for the honour of the Lord and a decided devotion to His cause—at all times a wretched weakness—must, when His enemies are active and powerful, be peculiarly offensive to Him, who has said, “Whosoever, therefore, shall be ashamed of me, and of my words, in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the Son of Man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” {205a} Let, therefore, all lukewarm professors of religion be addressed in the words of Joshua, “If it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose this day whom ye will serve:” {205b} let them be warned in the words of the Saviour, “He that is not with me, is against me, and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” {205c}