May 3

They that will be rich fall into temptation. — I TIM. vi. 9.

And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. — MAIT. xix. 24.

THESE words condemn, not wealth, but the love of it. They put not a premium on worldly poverty, but on poverty of spirit. They warn against the possible influence of riches. Human nature seeks ease and honor, and mostly through earthly possessions: the subtle tendency of such possession, or the desire of it, is to wean the soul from the contemplation of the eternal Creator to the worship of the perishing creature. Giving way to this tendency makes these words terribly significant. The young ruler's inordinate love of wealth suggested them, yet Christ's thought comprises not merely those who have "great possessions," but those, be they never so poor, whose hearts are engrossed in that desire. God enriched the earth for man's good: the possession and enjoyment of its bounties may very legitimately subserve man's chief end. But forget not that the grand, noble, and sublime aim of life is the possession and enjoyment of the riches of the grace of God our Saviour. He looks on the heart, and demands from all followers true consecration of heart and possession. Be your worldly state in poverty or riches, remember this eternal truth, "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

William N. Chambers.

The dearest idol I have known, Whate'er that idol be, Help me to tear it from thy throne, And worship only thee.

COWPER.