+I. The nature of this holy temper.+--1. _A humble apprehension of
our own knowledge._ The imperfection of our faculties, our
fallibility of judgment, when we compare our knowledge with the
attainments of others, and a persuasion of the small value of the
most exalted knowledge without practical influence. 2. _Of our own
goodness._ 3. _Of our independence and wants._ 4. _Of our own rank
and station._
+II. The obligations to cultivate a humble temper.+--1. _It is
mentioned in Scripture with peculiar marks of distinction and
honour._ The most distinguished promises are made to it. It is a
necessary introduction to other graces and duties. 2. _It is a grace
which adorns every other virtue and recommends religion to every
beholder._ 3. _Is recommended to us by the example of the Author and
Finisher of our faith._ 4. _Is a grace that will go with us to
heaven._
+Lessons.+--1. _Those destitute of this grace have the rudiments of
Christianity to learn._ 2. _We should look principally to the temper
of our spirits to judge of our humility._ 3. _By it we judge of the
improving or declining state of our souls.--J. Evans, D.D._