October 20

Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God. — I JOHN v. I.

Dost thou believe on the Son of God? — JOHN ix. 35.

ALL men believe. Faith is an instinct of human nature, a necessity in human life. Therefore the question is not, "Dost thou believe?" but "Dost thou believe on the Son of God?" — "Dost thou acknowledge him as thy Lord, and trust him as thy Saviour?"

Momentous question, indeed, as addressed to any human soul! — for everything of value turns upon its answer. None but this Son of God can solve for any man the mystery of his being, or make sure to him his highest destiny. Only to the soul that trusts him can be become "wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption."

There are those in whose loving faith he is enthroned; who know his power to save and sanctify; who rejoice in the certainty, the comfort, the beauty, of their Christian faith; to whom, both for service and suffering, it is a regenerating force, a steadfast hope, a heavenly inspiration; in whom it is the source of such purity of character and peace of spirit as are even now the beginning of heaven within them.

Can I say to Jesus Christ to-day, "Lord, I believe"? Is my worship of him a proof of my faith?

Herman C. Riggs.

Jesus, I hang upon thy word; I steadfastly believe Thou wilt return and claim me, Lord, And to thyself receive.

C. WESLEY.