January 11

Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God. — EPH. iv. 30.

Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. — MATT. xii. 31.

WHILST all sins are mortal unless expiated and repented of, we are to beware of one that is so peculiarly virulent as to leave no room for repentance. The blood might cleanse it if applied; but the blood will never reach it, as it is beyond the jurisdiction of grace. Prayer for it is as unavailing as if offered for the impenitent dead, or for the conversion of Satan. It is like a disease from which no patient has ever recovered.

Whether the Pharisees had committed this sin, or were only forewarned of their peril, we are not informed. Perhaps no mere man can ever in this life be sure that his case is beyond hope. But as this sin is directed against the person and operations of the Holy Ghost, the terrible warning is still in season. We should fear to condemn a work because it fails to satisfy our prejudices or our sectarianism. Whilst professing to be only criticising human methods, we may be passing judgment on the Spirit, condemning his work as excitement and delusion, and ascribing it to Beelzebub. Our opposition may be in varying degrees, from mere grumbling to extreme blasphemy or persecution; but it is always mischievous in its effects and perilous to our souls.

George Maclay

Holy Ghost, with light divine, Shine upon this heart of mine; Chase the shades of night away; Turn my darkness into day!

Cast down every idol throne, Reign supreme, and reign alone!

A. REED.