April 14

Second Sunday in Lent

God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.

In every action reflect upon the end, and in undertaking it consider why you do it; and what you propound to yourself for a reward and to your action as its end. Begin every action in the Name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 1. That we be careful that we do not the action without the permission or warrant of God. 2. That we design it to the glory of God, if not in the direct action, yet at least in its consequence. 3. That it may be so blessed, that what you intend for innocent and holy purposes, may not by any chance or abuse or misunderstanding of men be turned into evil, or made the occasion of sin. Let every action of concernment be begun with prayer, that God would not only bless the action, but sanctify your purpose and make an oblation of the action to God; holy and well-intended actions being the best oblations and presents we can make to God. In the prosecution of the action, renew and re-enkindle your purpose by short ejaculations, viz. "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto Thy Name let all praise be given;" and consider, Now I am working the work of God: I am His servant, I am in a happy employment, I am doing my Master's business, I am not at my own disposal. I am using His talents, and all the gain must be His; for then be sure, as the glory is His, so the reward shall be thine. If thou bringest His goods home with increase, He will make thee ruler over cities. Have a care that, while the altar thus sends up a holy flame, thou dost not suffer the birds to come and carry away the sacrifice; that is, let not that which began well, and was intended for God's glory, decline and end in thy own praise or temporal satisfaction, or a sin.