August 23

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.—Isaiah 40:29.

IN hours of discouragement, adversity, or trial, do I feel the sustaining power of God's promise, and rely as firmly on him then, as in the full sunshine of peace and joy? If such comfort is not present when most I need it, is it not from my want of faith and trust in that divine Helper who never yet failed any who stayed themselves on him? Is not his promise the sure foundation of all the encouragement and strength I need, if I will but rely upon it?

No one can overestimate his own weakness, or the strength that comes from dependence on God. *

Provide for, and help me, O Lord; for this world, out of the stores of thy providence; and in spiritual things, out of the fullness there is in Christ. Help me in health, that I may not slide; in sickness, that I may not murmur; in plenty, that I may not be proud; in poverty, that I may not complain; in all things, that I may live to thee.—J. SMITH.

Commit thy way to God,

The weight that makes thee faint;

Worlds are to him no load;

To him breathe thy complaint.

On God alone rely,

Then shalt thou safe go on:

Fix on his work thy steadfast eye,

So shall thy work be done.—GERHARDT.