---

I. ITS NATURE.

1. The cunning man is not prudent.

2. The worldly-minded, persevering for their own advantage in this life, are not prudent.

3. Conceit of our own wisdom does not prove us among the prudent.

II. ITS SPHERE. It is seen —

1. In an insatiable thirst for useful knowledge.

2. In the preference it gives to every object according to its relative value.

3. In the subordination of the passions.

4. In foresight of, and provision for, circumstances.

5. In a willing subjection to reproof.

6. In a capacity to be silent on fit occasions.

7. In observing the fittest seasons for the improvement of opportunities.

III. ITS MEANS AND MOTIVES.

1. Be it your concern to imbibe a fixed sense of its vast importance.

2. Consider the numerous evils sure to result from its absence.

3. Remember that prudence sweetens all the endearing charities of domestic life.

4. Prudence increases and facilitates the means of doing good.

5. Prayer and an intimate acquaintance with the Scriptures are the grand means of its successful cultivation.

(G. Clayton.)

---

---

KJV: And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

WEB: Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.