August 13

The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. --Psalms 19:7.

DO I realize that the word of God is for ever sure; that we may give full credit to all its teachings, and may rely upon it, knowing that it will never mislead or deceive us? Do I take it as the sure guide to all truth, and to all duty; to holiness here, and to heaven hereafter? Has it made me wise unto salvation? Do I commend it to all, as the source of their belief, and the guide of their conduct? Do I seek to extend the knowledge of it to all who are destitute?

The Rev. James W. Alexander, D. D., began his Thirty-one Rules on How to Read the Bible with, "In all your reading, bear in mind that it is the word of God;" and ended them with the weighty injunction, "In all your reading, remember that it is for the salvation of your soul."

Other books may make men learned and wise unto ostentation; but only the Bible can make them learned and wise unto salvation.—ARROWSMITH.

Great Sun of righteousness, arise:

Bless the dark world with heavenly light!

Thy gospel makes the simple wise;

Thy laws are pure; thy judgments right.

Thy noblest wonders here we view,

In souls renewed, and sins forgiven.

Lord, cleanse my sins; my soul renew;

And make thy word my guide to heaven!

—WATTS.