t is a very great matter to stand in obedience; to live under a superior; and not to be at our own disposing. It is much safer to be in subjection than in authority. Many are under obedience, rather for necessity than for love; such are discontented and easily murmur. Neither can they attain to freedom of mind, unless with their whole heart they put themselves under obedience for the love of God. Run hither and thither, you will find no rest, but in humble subjection under the rule of a superior. Fancy and continual changing of places have deceived many.
True it is that everyone willingly does that which agrees with his own mind; and he is apt to esteem those most that are like-minded with him. But if God is among us, we must sometimes leave even our own mind to gain the blessing of peace. Who is so wise that he can fully know all things? Be not therefore too confident in your own mind, but be willing to hear the mind of others. If your thinking is sound, and yet you part with it for God and follow another's thought, it will be better for you. I have often heard that it is safer to hear and to take counsel than to give it. Each one's opinion may be good; but to refuse to yield to others when reason or a special cause requires it is a sign of pride and obstinacy. •
