December 19

But let a man examine himself.—1 Corinthians 11:28.

DO I always keep before me the divine standard of character and duty, and often compare myself as I am, with what they teach me I ought to be, that I may know where I stand in God's sight, and what progress I am making in divine things? Do I ask for divine light and assistance in seeking to know myself? Am I willing to know the worst, as well as the best, concerning myself? Is the great end of all my self-searching that I may become wiser and better every day?

The first step in moral, as well as in mental improvement, is, to know our deficiencies and errors. He that is satisfied with his attainments, will never make progress, either in knowledge or grace. We must know ourselves, if we would improve ourselves. *

Turn thine eyes unto thyself, and judge not the deeds of other men. In judging others, one labors in vain, often errs, and easily sins; but in judging himself, he always labors fruitfully.—THOMAS A KEMPIS.

Thrice ask, as fades each sun's last ray,

What's been my life throughout this day?

What have I learned, that's worth the knowing?

What have I done, that's worth the doing?

What have I sought, that I should shun?

What duties have I left undone?

Such self-inquiries are the road,

That leads to virtue and to God.—PYTHAGORAS.