November 22

Fight the good fight of faith; lay hold on eternal life.—1 Timothy 6:12.

DO I realize that the Christian life is indeed a warfare, and that there is no cessation from the conflict here on earth? Am I watchful against self, and sin, and the world, and the great adversary of souls? Do I endeavor not only to hold back the powers of evil, but to extend the victories of truth and holiness? Knowing how weak I am of myself, do I put on the whole armor of God, and keep near the great Captain of salvation, and in his strength strive to be faithful unto death?

What Dr. Arnold said about the class of young men who professed their sentimental admiration of virtue, applies well to older persons: "Commend me to those that not only love God, but who also hate the devil."

There is no fighting on a quagmire. Faith furnishes the only solid and safe ground on which we can contend. Faith clothes us with the whole armor of God, and connects us with the Captain of our salvation, without whom we can do nothing, but through whose strength we can do all things.—W. JAY.

Soldier of Christ! arise!

And put your armor on;

Strong in the strength which God supplies

Through his eternal Son.

Strong is the Lord of hosts,

And in his mighty power,

Who in the strength of Jesus trusts,

Is more than conqueror!