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Observe here, 1. Three very extensive and comprehensive duties, which our apostle exhorts unto, all which have a kind of universality annexed unto them: now the more comprehensive any duty is, the greater its obligation is;
the first duty is to rejoice evermore, that is, to carry ourselves so holily toward God, and so circumspectly and unblameably before men, that we may always have cause for rejoicing, and in the midst of temptations, and in the midst of poverty and affliction, may actually rejoice in the expectation of present advantage by them, and in the hope of the glory of God, as the reward of them.
Learn hence, that the children of God ought to make conscience of rejoicing in God at all times, and in all conditions.
But is not there a time to mourn, as well as to rejoice?
Yes, but it is no where said, mourn evermore; nay, holy mourning has the seed of spiritual joy in it; it directly tends to it, and will certainly end in it; mourning is but a temporary, rejoicing is an eternal duty.