An EXCERPT FROM SERMON PREACHED BEFORE HIS EXCELLENCY SAMUEL HUNTINGTON, GOVERNOR AND THE HONORABLE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT
BY JONATHAN EDWARDS, D. D. CONVENED AT HARTFORD
ON THE DAY OF THE ANNIVERSARY ELECTION
MAY 8TH, 1794
“And let me beseech you to remember, that you also have a master in heaven, to whom you, as well as the rest of men, must give an account. The only way to gain his approbation is, to keep a conscience void of offence, and in your political transactions not to act from party attachments and private connections, not to practice intrigue to serve your own interests or those of your friends; but to endeavour to serve the public in the best manner according to your capacity and opportunity. In so doing you will appoint to the several executive offices, men of knowledge and discretion; men that fear God and hate covetousness; men who will be just and rule in the fear of God. By the promotion of such men, virtue will be encouraged and vice will be restrained; by their official proceedings, law and justice will be executed, and “judgment will run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream,” even that righteousness which exalteth a nation. Then shall our political interests be in a prosperous state; then shall we be that happy people whose God is the Lord.”
