+I. It should be serious and earnest.+ The subjects are too solemn and weighty to be hastily dismissed. It must not be a mere cursory survey, a rapid glance at these great concerns, but a careful, deliberate contemplation of them; just as a prisoner about to be tried for a capital offence would consider his defence, or a wrecked mariner how he shall escape a watery grave, or a traveller how to accomplish some momentous journey or voyage. If it be done lightly and hastily, it will not profit us or please God. +II. It should be prayerful.+ The exercise will be irksome to the natural heart. We shall be disposed to give it up, or do it slightingly. The grace of God alone can give the spirit necessary for the right discharge of it. Therefore begin, continue, and follow it out with prayer. +III. It should be pursued in connection with a diligent use of the public means of grace.+ Hearken to the Divine Word as it is read in the sanctuary, and to the preaching of the gospel, Christian conversation, &c. Consideration will not profit us if God's means and ordinances are neglected. All are needful to the soul, as wind, sun, rain, and dew are all needful to the ripening of fruit. +IV. It should be continued and persevering.+ Not too much to devote a portion of every day to it. The first and last moments would be thus profitably exercised,[1] _and it must be followed out._[2] In conclusion, notice +some reasons why you should consider.+ 1. _Because you have powers to do so._ God made you for this end, that you should consider. In neglecting this, you despise your own souls, you sink to below the level of the brute creation. They do answer the end of their existence, and obey their several instincts. "The ox knoweth his owner." Nearly every creature disposes of its time and means wisely; but an inconsiderate man defaces the faculties within him. 2. _Because it is your duty._ God enjoins it--He urges, expostulates. To neglect it is, therefore, to despise God and rebel against Him. 3. _It is essential to the possession of true religion._ Various are the ways in which God brings man to Himself; by a variety of instruments and means, but none without consideration. Manasseh in prison--Jonah in the belly of the whale--the prodigal in his misery, &c. It is the first great step towards saving religion. 4. _By prudent men, it is never neglected in worldly things._ In entering upon any contract, in buying and selling, in all business engagements, in all secular pursuits. We consider, in reference to the body, our houses, food, and raiment, our families, &c. Are the soul's eternal concerns the only things not deserving of it? 5. _God may compel you to consider._ By bereaving you of the dearest objects of your hearts, by afflicting your bodies, by embittering all earthly good. Is it not better to avoid these corrections, sorrows, and griefs? 6. _You may consider when it is too late._ Perhaps on the verge of eternity, if not in eternity itself. The foolish virgins