February 23

Uphold me with thy free spirit.—Psalms 51:12.

DO I feel that if left to myself—to dependence on my own powers or purposes, I shall constantly fall into sin? And do I pray that the Holy Spirit may guide and sustain me, and deliver me from its power? Do I aim habitually at a holy and spiritual life, endeavoring to walk in the Spirit, and so to adorn the doctrine of Christ? Do I pray for a serious, firm and faithful spirit, that I may always be kept in the way of duty?

He that is delivered, through Christ, from the condemnation and bondage of sin, is sealed by the Holy Spirit, and so walks before God in righteousness and true holiness.—SUMNER.

Christ says if we continue in his word, then we are his disciples indeed, and we shall know the truth, and the truth shall make us free. And if we do this we shall serve God faithfully, and never grow weary of running in the way of his commandments; but shall manifest to all, that no motive is so powerful as the love which comes from being freely forgiven and accepted in the Beloved.—EVERARD.

In service which thy will appoints,

There are no bonds for me;

For my inmost heart is taught the truth

That makes thy children free;

And a life of self-renouncing love,

Is a life of liberty;

A life of good to all mankind,

And a life that honors thee!