November 18

Eighteenth Monday after Trinity

In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6.

AMONG breaches of earthly ties men hold those the most grievous where the bond is closest, and that which would be as nothing between strangers is unkindness between husband and wife. And so that which might be passed over in an ordinary life, becomes weighty in that of one who is plighted to a heavenly Bridegroom. "It is no longer I but Christ Who dwelleth in me." What strength this thought should give in trial, pain, and temptation! He Who dwelleth in you, He Whose you are, beareth all in and with you! Who that keeps this steadfastly in mind but will give most diligent heed lest any subtle worldly trifle sully the purity of that soul wherein Jesus deigns to dwell? It is over little things that you have to watch; such little things as you may scarcely be inclined to consider worth heeding or counting as faults, and which indeed would not be such in those whose calling is less special, and who are not seeking to measure themselves by so high a standard. A trifling eagerness or curiosity, or rest in some earthly delight, a little unpunctuality, or a careless exaggeration—small as these seem, they may be weighty hindrances to one to whom much having been given, of him much shall be required. Look at your whole life, daily and hourly, in that light, and you will assuredly learn to consider nothing little that can cast a shadow upon the heavenly mirror which your soul should present to your heavenly Bridegroom.

I will arise and in the strength of love Pursue the bright track ere it fade away, My Saviour's pathway to His home above.