November 2

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear.—1 John 4:18.

AM I careful to draw the distinction between the fear of reverence, and the fear of apprehension and dread? Do I feel that the former is the very first element of religion, while the latter arises from a sense of sin unpardoned, and is fitted to alarm the soul? Have I that holy fear and reverence for God which leads me to honor him, and which is consistent with the full assurance of his love? And if I love him, and feel that he loves me, may I not well rejoice and triumph in his love?

The fear of God casts out all other fears, and brings quiet and peace where they brought trouble.—LEIGHTON.

The devils, we are told, believe and tremble; but our part is to believe and not tremble, but love. It is hard to convince some that nothing short of this can be true Christian faith. So, because they are somewhat terrified by the thought of God, they fancy they believe, though their hearts are far away from him—HARE.

Thee will I love, my strength, my tower, My hope, my life, my joy, my crown; Thee will I love with all my power, Supremely love—love thee alone. Love's sacred flame, a heavenly fire, Shall ever glow with pure desire, My heart from self and sin set free, A holy temple, Lord, for thee.