But what is the temper of true religion, and of true science
likewise? The seaman will say, I dare not pray that there may be no
storm. I cannot presume to interfere with God's government. If
there ought to be a storm, there will be one: if not, there will be
none. But I can forecast the signs of the weather; I can consult my
barometer; I can judge, by the new lights of science, what course the
storm will probably take; and I can do my best to avoid it.
But does that make religion needless? Does that make prayer useless?
How so? The seaman may say, I dare not pray that the storm may not
come. But there is no necessity that I should be found in its path.
And I may pray, and I will pray, that God may so guide and govern my
voyage, and all its little accidents, that I may pass it by. I know
that I can forecast the storm somewhat; and if I do not try to do
that, I am tempting God: but I may pray, I will pray, that my
forecast may be correct. I will pray the Spirit of God, who gives
man understanding, to give me a right judgment, a sound mind, and a
calm heart, that I may make no mistake and neglect no precaution; and
if I fail, and sink--God's will be done. It is a good will to me and
all my crew; and into the hands of the good God who has redeemed me,
I commend my spirit, and their spirits likewise.
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