If we compare not only the end, but the way, we shall find that
religion has the advantage; for, 1. The way of saints is pleasant and
agreeable: Good understanding gains favour with God and man; our
Saviour grew in that favour when he increased in wisdom. Those that
conduct themselves prudently, and order their conversation aright in
every thing, that serve Christ in righteousness, and peace, and joy in
the Holy Ghost, are accepted of God and approved of men, Rom. xiv. 17,
18. And how comfortably will that man pass through the world who is
well understood and is therefore well accepted! 2. The way of sinners
is rough and uneasy, and, for this reason, unpleasant to themselves,
because unacceptable to others. It is hard, hard upon others, who
complain of it, hard to the sinner himself, who can have little
enjoyment of himself while he is doing that which is disobliging to all
mankind. The service of sin is perfect slavery, and the road to hell is
strewed with the thorns and thistles that are the products of the
curse. Sinners labour in the very fire.