p. 2 | SELECTIONS by Fletcher

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 7, 1857

SELECTIONS.

By Fletcher

Seriousness.

NOTHING is so contrary to godliness as levity. Seriousness consists in the matter of what is spoken, in the manner of speaking, in dignity of behaviour, and in weighty, not trifling, actions.

Jesting 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.

Levity is contrary to contrition and self-knowledge—to watching and prayer—frequently to charity and common sense. In short, it is destructive of all devotion, in our hearts, and in those of others, by unfitting the company for receiving any good.

Seriousness is useful to prevent the foregoing evils, to keep grace, to recommend piety, and a sense of God's presence, to leave room for the Spirit of God to work, and to check levity and sin in others.

And have we not motives sufficient to seriousness? Are we not walking over enchanted ground, in sight of the grave, and pursued every moment by the enemy of all righteousness?

All who walk with God are serious, taking their Lord for their example, and walking by scripture precepts and warnings.

"But are we to renounce all mirth, and be dull and melancholy?" Answer. Seriousness and solid happiness are inseparable.

"Is there not a time for all things?" Answer. There is no time for sin and folly.—Fletcher.