NOTHING IS SO CONTRARY TO GODLINESS AS LEVITY.—Seriousness consists in the matter of what is spoken, the manner of speaking, in dignity of behaviour, and in weighty, not trifling actions. Some people are serious by nature, some by policy and for selfish ends, and some by grace and from a sense of duty.142Jesting and raillery, lightness of behaviour, useless occupations, joy without trembling and awe of God, an affectation of vivacity and sprightliness, are all contrary to the Spirit of God. A fool laughs loud, saith Solomon, but a wise man scarce smiles a little.
Levity is contrary to contrition and self knowledge—to watching and prayer—frequently to charity—and to common sense when death is at our heels.
Levity is destructive to all devotion in our own hearts, and in that of others, by unfitting the company for receiving good, and bringing a suspicion of hypocrisy upon all.
Seriousness is useful to prevent the foregoing miscarriages—to keep grace—to recommend piety and a sense of God's presence—to leave room for the Spirit to work—and to check levity and sin in others. And have we not motives sufficient to seriousness? Are we not walking in the presence of God? on the verge of the grave? and in sight of eternity? All who walk with God are serious, taking their Lord for their example, and walking by Scripture precepts and warnings.
Are we to be dull and melancholy? Seriousness and solid happiness are inseparable. Is there not a time for all things? There is no time for sin and folly.—Selected.