Whilst the stream keeps running, it keeps clear; but if it comes once to a standing water, then it breeds toads and frogs and all manner of filth. The keys that men keep in their pockets, and use every day, wax brighter and brighter; but if they be laid aside, and hang by the walls, they soon grow rusty. Thus it is that action is the very life of the soul.
Whilst we keep going and running in the way of Good, we keep clear and free from the world’s pollution, but if we once flag in our diligence and stand still, oh, what a puddle of pain will the heart be! How rusty and useless will our graces grow!
Adapted from: Spencer, 1658
