June 18

Thus saith the Lord of hosts, consider your ways. —HAGGAT i. 5

DO I realize the importance of self-knowledge, especially as to spiritual things? Do I apply my mind seriously to the important work of self-ex- amination, comparing myself, both as to motives and conduct, with the teaching of God's word? Do I look to my principles, to my motives, to my feelings, to my aims, to my conduct, and ask if they are all such as God can approve? Has the serious consideration of my ways led me to amend whatever may have been amiss, and to aim at all that is right?

The sins of men go before them to the judgment, and will be ready to meet them there. What a fear- ful meeting! How impossible to escape from their accusing and their consequences.—JEFFRIES.

Consideration is the bed where the incorruptible seed is sown; and on the ground thus prepared the Sun of righteousness doth shine, and by his warmth produces in the soul all manner of pleasant and heavenly fruits.—ANTHONY HORNBECK.

The world's a labyrinth, whose anfractuous ways

Are all composed of rubs, and crookt meanders. No resting here: he's hurried back who stays

A thought: and he that goes unguided, wanders Her way is dark: her path untrod, uneven: So hard the way from earth, so hard the way to heaven.—QUARLES.