February 10

Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.—2 Corinthians 10:5.

DO I endeavor, in humble dependence on Christ, to crucify every sinful thought, and feeling, and purpose, that I may humbly and faithfully serve him? Do I feel my ignorance, and go to him for light; my weakness, and go to him for strength; my proneness to wander, and constantly pray that he will keep me? Vain imaginations, proud reasonings, high thoughts of self—all these do I sacrifice at the cross?

The happiness of man consists not in exemption from trials, but in having his will swallowed up in the will of God.

From the altars of our hearts let the incense of holy meditation, and fervent prayer, and cheerful thanksgiving ever be ascending. Let the pure lights of faith and holy living shine, and never be extinguished. Let our souls be refreshed and strengthened by the Bread of Life. Let us remember thy sacred laws and treasure up thine unfailing promises. Suffer nothing unclean to enter into our souls. Keep us from the power of temptation. Sanctify us to thyself, and be thou ever sanctified in us.

If in our daily task our mind

Be set to hallow all we find,

New treasures still, of countless price,

God will provide for sacrifice.

The trivial round, the common task,

Would furnish all we ought to ask,

Room to deny ourselves—a road

To bring us daily nearer God.—KEBLE.