August 26

I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and as a cloud, thy sins.—Isaiah 44:22.

HAVE I come to God, by faith in Christ, for that pardon which blots out sin and scatters the dark cloud that separates between the soul and him? If so, do I take the comfort he so freely offers; and in humble confidence and joyous trust, do I rest all my hopes on him? Do I look to him as to a father, in the spirit of a loving child? Having much forgiven, do I love much? Do I so live near to him, as always to enjoy the light of his countenance?

If believers have discomfort and uneasiness on account of their past sins, as though they were still imputed to them, they are undervaluing the perfectly finished work of Christ, and doubting the veracity and promise of God.

Judge of God, not by your own sense, but by his promise; not by your frames and feelings, but by his love and grace in Christ Jesus. Believe firmly; hope confidently; love fervently; walk humbly; pray earnestly; work diligently; and wait quietly, and you may at all times have joy in God.—J. MASON.

Arrayed in mortal flesh, He like an angel stands, And holds the promises, And pardons in his hands: Commissioned from his Father's throne, To make his grace to mortals known.