I know not how to speak of this exercise of the mind. It is better felt
than described. It is a calm and holy reconciliation with God and his
government; a settled feeling of complacency towards everything but sin.
It begets a serene and peaceful temper and disposition of the heart. But
this gracious work of the Holy Spirit does not stop with these exercises
of the mind. However we may seem to feel, in our moments of retirement
and meditation, if this peaceful disposition is not carried out in our
intercourse with others, and our feelings towards them, we have reason
to suspect ourselves of hypocrisy. Whatever is in our hearts will
manifest itself in our conduct. If we exercise a morose, sour, and
jealous disposition towards others; if we indulge a censorious spirit,
not easily overlooking their faults; if we are easily provoked, and
irritated with the slightest offence; if we indulge in petty strifes and
backbiting--surely the peace of God does not rule in our hearts. So much
does Christ esteem this peaceful spirit, that he says peacemakers shall
be called the children of God. Again, he tells his disciples to "have
peace one with another." The apostle Paul, also, gives frequent
exhortations to the exercise of this grace. "Be at peace among
yourselves." "Follow peace with all men." "If it be possible, live
peaceably with all men." "That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life."

MEEKNESS is a twin-sister of Peace. It is a temper of mind not easily
provoked to resentment. The word used in the original signifies
_easiness of mind_. The cultivation of this grace resembles the taming
of wild animals. It is the bringing of all our wild and ungovernable
passions under control. It is an eminent work of the Spirit; and we may
judge of our spiritual attainments by the degree of it which we possess.
The Scriptures abound with exhortations to the cultivation of it. It is
preeminently lovely in the female character. Hence, the apostle Peter