August 18

Be not weary in well doing.—2 Thessalonians 3:13.

DO I keep in mind, continually, the fact, that this life is a warfare, and that I am to follow the great Captain of salvation faithfully to the end? And when weary and discouraged in the conflict, do I look to him for courage and strength to persevere? Does earnest prayer begin and accompany my daily warfare? However valiantly I fight, do I look for victory only through my Saviour's grace?

Presumption is heart-whole and self-confident, and so off its guard. But faith has a sense of weakness, and looks to the promises, and seeing the face of Christ therein, is made bold and confident to fight manfully to the end.—RUTHERFORD.

Faith evermore overlooks the difficulties of the way, and bends her eyes only to the end. She looks back to the cross and is at peace; and forward to the crown and pants for its possession.—BISHOP HALL.

Teach me to live! 'Tis easier far to die, Gently and silently to pass away; On earth's long night to close the weary eye, And waken to the coming glorious day. Teach me that harder lesson, how to live, To serve thee in the darkest ways of life; Arm me for conflict, now fresh vigor give, And make me conqueror in the holy strife!