The Godly Man's Picture

7. An humble soul is willing to take a reproof for sin; a wicked man is too high to stoop to a reproof: The Prophet Micaiah used to tell King Ahab of his sin, and saith he, I hate him, 1 Kin. 22. 8. Reproof to a proud man, is like pouring water on lime, which grows the more hot; a gracious soul loves him that reproves, Pro. 9. 8. Rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. The humble-spirited Christian can bear the reproach of an Enemy, and the reproof of a friend.

7. An humble soul is willing to take a reproof for sin; a wicked man is too high to stoop to a reproof: The Prophet Micaiah used to tell King Ahab of his sin, and saith he, I hate him, 1 Kin. 22. 8. Reproof to a proud man, is like powring water on lime, which grows the more hot; a gracious soul loves him that reproves, Pro. 9. 8. Rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. The humblespirited Christian can bear the reproach of an Enemy, and the reproof of a friend.

8. An humble man is willing to have his name and parts eclipsed, so Gods glory may be more increased; he is content to be outshined by others in gifts and esteem, so that the Crown of Christ may shine the brighter: This is the humble mans Motto, Let me decrease, let Christ increase: 'Tis his desire that Christ should be exalted, and if this be effected, let who will be the instrument, he rejoiceth, Phil. 1. 15. Some preach Christ of envy; They preached to get away some of Pauls hearers; Well, saith he, Christ is preached, and I therein do rejoice, ver▪ 8. An humble Christian is content to be laid aside, if God hath any other tools to work with which may bring him more glory.