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plication; but violent paroxysms are to be assuaged by emollient medicines. Be in all things "wise as the serpent, and harmless as the dove." For this end art thou formed of flesh and spirit, that thou mayest soften the things which are in thy sight: but pray that the things which are invisible may be revealed unto thee, that thou mayest want in nothing, but abound in every gift of God. The present season demands thee, as pilots the wind, as the storm-tost mariner his desired haven, that thou attain unto God. Be temperate, as God's Champion; the reward is incorruption, and eternal life: in which also thy faith is firm. In all things, my soul is as thine, and so are my bonds which thou hast loved.
III. Be not dismayed at those who seem worthy of trust, and yet teach new doctrines: stand firm, as the anvil under the stroke, for he is a mighty champion, who though buffetted, yet overcometh. But above all, for the sake of God, we must endure all, that He also may endure us. Become more and more zealous: study the times; await Him who is above all time, the Eternal, the Invisible, (who yet for us men became visible,) the Impalpable, the Impassible: who yet for our salvation became subject unto suffering, and endured all things.
IV. Let not the widows be neglected, for thou under the Lord art their guardian; let nothing be done without thy sanction, neither thyself do any thing without the sanction of God; which thing indeed thy constancy suffers thee not to do. Let your assemblies be held more frequently. Seek out and address all by name. Slight not the slaves; yet suffer them not to be puffed up, but let them rather serve the more diligently unto the glory of God, that from Him they may obtain a more perfect freedom. Let them not seek to be emancipated at the public cost, lest they be found to be the slaves of their own desires.
V. Avoid evil arts; nay, rather mention them not at all. Speak unto my sisters, that they love the Lord, and be content, in will as in deed, with their husbands. Exhort also my brethren in the name of Jesus Christ, that they love their wives, even as the Lord loveth the Church. If any one can remain in chastity, to the honour of the flesh of our Lord, let him do so in all humility. If he boast, he is already lost; yea, if he reveal it to any one, save
