more magnificent than they are—their foundations of gold, their
peace and plenty, and have our baskets full, we should say to ourselves, "this is not the kingdom we are to look after, this is not heaven!" It is wisdom to remember our purpose. It will be but sad upon a death-bed for a man to find he has busied himself about trifles—played with a feather—and neglected the main thing he came into the world for.
(2) Seeking the heavenly kingdom will be judged most prudent by all men at last. Those who are most heedless of their souls now, will wish when they die, that they had minded eternity more. When conscience is awakened, and men begin to come to themselves, what would they give for the kingdom of heaven! How happy would it be if men were of the same mind now—as they will be at death! Death will alter men's opinions! Those who most slighted and disparaged the ways of religion, will wish their time and thoughts had been taken up about the excellent glory. At death, men's eyes will be opened, and they will see their folly when it is too late. All men, even the worst, will wish at last that they had minded the kingdom of heaven. Why should not we do now what all will wish they had done, when they come to die?
(3) This kingdom of heaven deserves our utmost pains and diligence.
1. It is GLORIOUS, beyond hyperbole. Suppose earthly kingdoms more magnificent than they are—their foundations of gold, their walls of pearl, their windows of diamond—even then, they would not be comparable to the heavenly kingdom. If the pavement of heaven is bespangled with so many bright shining lights and glorious stars, what is the kingdom itself? "It does not yet appear what we shall be." 1 John 3:2. This kingdom exceeds our imagination. How sublime and