January 15

"For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell."—Colossians 1:19.

THE fulness of Christ is not like a concealed spring, or a fountain shut up, but like a wide expansive ocean, free and open for all; we are soon lost in the contemplation of its vastness, and filled with unutterable joy when we can dive into its depths, and revive and invigorate our languid souls. Let us consider in relation to the fulness of Christ,

THE DUTY OF THE SINNER. There must be

An humble acknowledgement of our wants. This is the first step to get them supplied. We cannot rejoice in Christ's fulness if we have not mourned over our own emptiness. Yet such is the delusion of thousands, that they imagine they are rich and increased in goods, and have need of nothing; while they are reduced to the lowest state of spiritual destitution and wretchedness.

A sincere delight in his fulness. As it pleases the Father, so let it delight you, that all fulness dwells in Christ. When you contemplate the rich stores that are treasured up in him, and adapted exactly to your spiritual necessities, do not emotions of joy and gratitude thrill through your soul, that such a resource is opened?

A cordial reception of his benefits. Many hear of the Saviour's treasures who have never received of his fulness. If we would experience the Divine blessing and favor, we must be partakers of the Divine nature. Nothing short of the saving application of Christ's fulness to the soul will impart real satisfaction. Let my prayer be, Blessed God, supply all my wants according to thy riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Which of all our friends, to save us, Could or would have shed their blood? But one Jesus died to have us, Reconcified in him to God: This was boundless love indeed! Jesus is a friend in need.