February 18

"The desire of the righteous shall be granted." — Proverbs 10:24.

WHAT a contrast is there between the righteous and the wicked! They differ in their principles, feelings, pursuits, prospects, and final destinies. Let us observe here respecting the Christian,

THE CHARACTER HE BEARS. "Righteous." None are so by nature. This is founded in reason, stated in Scripture, and proved by experience. Many are so in their own imagination; but some in reality, by God's grace. Such individuals bear two marks; the one is wrought within them. The other is shown without. Righteousness is imputed to the soul, and exhibited in the life.

THE DESIRE HE CHERISHES. It is excited by Divine grace, and therefore very different to that which arises from corrupt nature. He desires

Increase in knowledge. This feeling will strengthen in proportion to the advances he makes. What is the highest point of knowledge to which we can attain here, compared with that which shall be possessed in glory? Here there are but a few scattered rays of light, which only discover to us more clearly the dark clouds of ignorance and imperfection that still envelope the mind; but there shall be the full blaze of immortality, dispelling every shadow, and chasing away the last mist that would gather around the soul.

Growth in grace. Many figures are employed in Scripture to set forth the pleasing truth of progression in the Divine life. "Forward" is the Christian's watchword.

Enjoyment in duty. Too many are contented with the formal observance, without the spiritual enjoyment, of ordinances.

Support in trial. It is a good evidence when we feel desire to be purified in, rather than to be delivered from, the fiery furnace of affliction.

Rest in glory. This is the consummation of all. When this is granted, the Christian has nothing more to desire; his prayers are ended.

THE SATISFACTION HE OBTAINS. His desire shall be granted, but how? Freely, gradually, and entirely.