114. I resort once again to history, and on
considering the men of best repute in ancient days, who were ever
preferred by grace to the office of ruler or prophet, I discover that
some readily complied with the call, others deprecated the gift, and
that neither those who drew back were blamed for timidity, nor those
who came forward for eagerness. The former stood in awe of the
greatness of the ministry, the latter trustfully obeyed Him Who called
them. Aaron was eager, but Moses resisted, Exod. iv. 10, 13, 27. Isaiah readily submitted, but Jeremiah was
afraid of his youth, Isai. vi. 8. and did not venture
to prophesy until he had received from God a promise and power beyond
his years. Jer. i. 6.