July 8

Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.—Matthew 6:33.

IS it my earnest endeavor to keep the things of this world in subordination to the interests of my undying soul? To what purpose am I living? What end am I striving to attain? Do I realize that unless I make God's service the first and great thing, I cannot enter his kingdom? If ever discouraged with strivings after heavenly things, let me not forget that God accepts, and will help all who sincerely seek him.

Build your nest on no tree here; for God hath sold the forest to Death, and every tree on which we would rest is ready to be cut down, to the end that we may flee, and mount up, and build upon the Rock.—RUTHERFORD.

It does not require great learning to be a Christian—to be convinced of the truth of the Bible, and to be conformed to its requirements. It requires only an honest heart and a willingness to obey God.—A. BARNES.

Awake, my soul, stretch every nerve, And press with vigor on;

A heavenly race demands thy zeal, And an immortal crown.

'Tis God's all-animating voice, That calls thee from on high;

'Tis his own hand presents the prize, To thine aspiring eye!—DODDRIDGE.