History of Presbyteriant'sm

The ruler ought to be a man of benevolence. Of the Great Ruler of the Universe it is said, “God is Love.” Inferior rulers ought to imitate him. The sole object of the ruler in governing ought to be the good of the people, not his own happi- ness or aggrandizement. His happiness is as naught compared with that of millions; and his own indi— vidual happiness will be better advanced in con- sidering their good than in following out any selfish ends of his own. There are cases in which the law falls with unjust severity upon individuals. For such cases as these provision is made in most governments, that the power should be lodged in the hands of the executive to extend the necessary relief. It is always understood that the ruler will do all in his power to prevent such cases of injustice, and when they do occur to redress the grievances of his subjects. This power and the means of relief with which he is intrusted is intended for the good of the subjects, and with a kind heart and a liberal and judicious hand they should be dispensed. In this respect the ruler ought to set a good example to others. Even upon a private person this is incumbent, but it is peculiarly so in a ruler. He occupies a conspicuous position. His example will be either very salutary or very pernicious. It will greatly encourage virtue, and discountenance vice, or it produce the very opposite effect. How impor- tant then that the ruler should be a God-fearing man, a man who in all things would Set before the governed, a godly example.

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