August 25

Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.—Romans 12:9.

DO I abhor sin as evil in itself, as well as from its tendency and consequences? Do I endeavor to keep a sensitive and faithful conscience, that shall warn me against its first approaches, and lead me to shrink from it? Do I hate and turn from every form of sin, because it is offensive to a loving and forgiving Father, and grieving to the Holy Spirit, and because its every commission crucifies the Son of God afresh? Do I seek to grow in all that is good and holy?

We must abhor ourselves for our sins, not from mere earthly principles, but for the manifold indignities they offer to God; to the law of his justice, the awe of his majesty, the honor of his reverence, the dread of his power, and the long-suffering of his love. —BISHOP ANDREWS.

There is more bitterness in sin's ending, than ever was sweetness in sin's acting. If we see only good in its commission, we shall suffer nothing but woe in its conclusion.—DYER.

Walk in the light! and sin, abhorred, Shall not defile again;

The blood of Jesus Christ, the Lord, Shall cleanse from every stain.

Walk in the light! thy path shall be Peaceful, serene, and bright:

For God, by grace, shall dwell in thee, And God himself is light!—BARTON.