July 25

"Help us, O Lord our God! for we rest on thee."—2 Chronicles 14:11.

PIETY is lovely wherever it is seen, whether in the humbler walks or higher ranks of life. Religion often dwells in a cottage, but rarely in a palace. We have an instance of a pious king before us: "Asa did that which was good and right in the eyes of the Lord his God." In the field of battle, before encountering the enemy, he cried for help from on high. It is a suitable prayer for us at all times. Note

THE CHRISTIAN'S PRIVILEGE. He is permitted to own God as his,

By a gracious choice on the part of God. Salvation is all of grace, in its contrivance, accomplishment, and application—there is grace in the believer's calling, justification, sanctification, and glorification. He is chosen to be saved by him, walk after him, live to him, and spend eternity with him.

By a cheerful consent on the part of the believer. Thus he is made willing in the day of God's power. The Spirit kindles the first ray of light in the beclouded mind, and creates the first earnest desire towards God; and then there is a personal dedication of ourselves to him.

THE CHRISTIAN'S PRAYER. "Help us, O Lord, our God!" We require help in our devotional exercises; the chariot wheels go heavily without a propelling influence from above; and if the fountain were to be shut up, the streams would soon be dry. Without Divine help there is no food in the sanctuary, no life in prayer, no delight in meditation, no communion in the closet. We need help in our spiritual conflicts. What is the use of our armor without the assistance of our Great Captain? We want help in our relative duties, that we may adorn the doctrines of God our Saviour in all things, social as well as sacred.

THE CHRISTIAN'S PLEA. "For we rest on thee." This denotes a spiritual acquaintance with God—a strong confidence in him, and a patient waiting for him. Let us at all times rest on his word, and on the arm of his power, looking up to the glorious stars of promise that shine in the cloudy firmament—reposing amidst the waves of affliction like Noah in his ark—secure like a hero in his armor, or soldiers in a garrison.