August 20

Every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as he is pure.—I John 3:3.

IF I hope to be for ever with Christ hereafter, must I not seek to attain here the character that will fit me for the enjoyment of his presence? Must I not study the utmost purity and holiness of heart and life, and endeavor daily to be growing in the divine likeness? Do I realize that as I must be justified to have a title to heaven, so I must be sanctified to be prepared for it? If I am saved by hope, must I not be purified by hope?

We are to keep the heart pure, by keeping it in fellowship with Christ; to keep the tongue pure, by using it only for Christ, to keep the life pure, by living in all things for Christ. In thought, word, feeling, action, we should aim at that purity which may make us like Christ.—J. SMITH.

By shaking the magnetic needle, you may move it from its place; but it returns to it the moment it is left to itself. In like manner, believers may fall into sin; but no sooner do they wake to reflection, than they repent, and endeavor to mend their ways, and resume a life of godliness.—GOTTHOLD.

Hast thou the love of Christ

The Saviour known?

The love that passeth knowledge—the rich grace

That stooped to poverty and death, to place

Thee on his throne?

Then will thy heart be pure; thy life be given

To walk with him on earth, with him to reign in heaven.