Many are reckoned great by the world, and are often
envied by their inferiors, who are yet ignorant of what renders man truly
great. A courtier, as Ahithophel, a prince, as Haman, and a king, as
Belshazzar, may be vile and sordid people; for often in the highest stations
the basest of men are set up. Coaches and chariots; horses and hounds; many
servants, and a numerous retinue; a sumptuous table, and fine apparel; high
titles, and honorary posts; great friends, and noble blood; rich
connections, and immense wealth—do not constitute true greatness. It is not
nobility, or popularity, or beauty, or talent—that will render one great. It
is not strength of body, natural courage, liberal education, bright parts,
or sparkling genius—that can make a truly great man. Hence this seeming
contradiction, yet sterling truth, Great men are not always great.
Are there, then, great men any where to be found? Yes,
though they attract not much notice or regard of men. The holy, humble,
self-denied soul, is truly great. He who lives above the things of time, and
has his meditation on God, and the things of the invisible world. He who is
pleased with a little of the good things of this world—can forgive
enemies—pass by affronts—forget injuries—repay hatred with love—rejoice in
tribulation—triumph in faith—have rule over his own spirit—mourn for the
sins of the times—weep over his lack holiness—tremble at God's
threatenings—depend on the promises—bewail his omissions—repent daily for
his sin—wrestle in prayer, and prevail with God, and, Enoch-like, have his
conversation in heaven, and walk with God—this is he who is truly great in
the eye of angels, in the eye of God!