Rational Religion
What is true rational religion? In answering with important question, we shall come to the
point at once, without prejudice or sectarian influence; and laying aside all traditionary
superstition, which has had its origin in clerical policy, inquire what is now the will of the
blessed Deity, with regard to the conduct of the children of men. What course of conduct,
in us, frail, erring human creatures, will now, under all the present existing circumstances,
be acceptable and approved by our divine Creator, who continually watches over us, and
observes our every act, and the thoughts of our hearts? We have so diligently examined
the answer which we are about to give to these questions, and so attentively viewed the
subject in all its bearings, and with all its evidences and demonstrations, that we can not
think it possible that there is any ground to doubt its correctness. First, then, let us as
rational creatures, be ever ready to acknowledge God as our Creator and daily Preserver;
and that we are each of us individually dependant on his special care and good will towards
us, in supporting the wonderful action of nature which constitutes our existence; and in
preserving us from the casualties, to which our complicated and delicate structure is liable.
Let us also, knowing our entire dependence on Divine Benevolence, as rational creatures,
do ourselves the honor to express personally and frequently, our thanks to him for his
goodness; and to present our petitions to Him for the favours which we constantly require.
This course is rational, even without the aid of revelation; but being specially invited to this
course, by the divine word, and assured of the readiness of our Creator to answer our
prayers and recognize our thanks, it is truly surprising that any rational being, who has ever
read the inspired writings, should willingly forego this privilege, or should be ashamed to
be seen engaged in this rational employment, or to have it known that he practices it. Next
to the worship of God by thanksgiving and prayer, we should repel and banish all feelings
of anger and bitterness toward our fellow beings, and cherish love and kind feelings
towards them. This course is also rational, having the example of God in his kind dealings
towards us; and conduces at once, to the glory of God, the happiness of mankind in
general, and to our own individual happiness and prosperity in particular. It is also a
rational duty to be ever reconciled and resigned to the dispensations of Divine Providence;
and to trust in the goodness and benevolence of God for the present and future, and to feel
willing to have it known amongst our associates, that we follow a rational course. This is
rational religion.