December 19
Daily Gleanings of the Saintly LifeTwenty-second Thursday after Trinity
First the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. S. Mark 4:28.
As we now sow, we shall hereafter reap. How can we sow to any profit, unless we are diligent in prayer? No real growth can take place without prayer, and it is idle to expect it. Let us, then, by the grace of God overcome every hindrance to prayer. Bear in mind what a truly solemn thing it is to die, we must all feel it to be so; but is it not also a very solemn thing to live? True prayer is the source and secret of the strength in which alone we can meet the trials and difficulties and duties of life. Remember for your encouragement that all satisfactory growth is gradual. It is so in nature; it is gradual, and, what is more, it is silent. "There is first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear." So it is in grace. What we all have especially to look to is that growth shall be going on, that there shall be no going back. Stand still we cannot even if we would. If not advancing, we are going back. See the vast importance of being earnest and sincere.
Work while it is called to-day, Watch and pray!
With both thine hands right earnestly, As in sight of God Most High, Thy calling ply.
Watch! it is the Master calls thee; Pray! it is His Ear that hears; Up! shake off thy chilly fears!
Mindful that whate'er befalls thee Leaves thee further on thy way! Watch and pray!