with God in Christ, than the actual communion of saints and love of brethren, Psa. xvi. 3; Acts ii. 46, 47. It is the beginning of that happiness on earth, which shall be perfected in heaven. It is for kind, the same, only differing in degree.

And, to conclude this subject, after you have been in company, good or bad, it will be worth your while to examine how far you have hindered any evil in others, and have preserved yourself from evil; how far you have endeavoured to do good to others, and how much you have gained in knowledge, serious affection, zeal, or any other good grace, by your company; and according as you find, let your conscience reprove or comfort you.

CHAPTER IX. RULES FOR OUR RELIGIOUS CONDUCT IN PROSPERITY.

When at any time you prosper in any thing, and have good success, that you may therein walk according to God's word.

First, Take heed of committing those sins to which the nature of man is most addicted, when his heart is satiated with prosperity.

Secondly, Be careful to produce those good fruits, which are the principal ends why God gives good success.

1st. The sins especially to be watched against, are, (1.) Denying of God, Prov. xxx. 9; by forgetting him and his ways, Deut. vi. 12; departing from him, Deut. xxxii. 15; when you are waxen fat like Jeshurun; taking the more licence to sin, Job xxi. 14, by how much you prosper the more in the world. (2.) Ascribing the praise of success to yourself or to second