March 5

"He will keep the feet of his saints." — 1 Samuel 2:9.

THIS is part of Hannah's song of praise to God, who had given her an answer to her prayers in the birth of Samuel. Note

THE CHARACTER DESCRIBED, "his saints." It is often used as a term of reproach, but it is a title of honor and dignity. Two ideas are included in it.

Separation. A saint is one set apart for God, for the reception of his grace, the promotion of his glory, and the eternal enjoyment of his presence. Those who are dedicated to God must be separated from the world.

Sanctity. To be a saint is to be made holy, and to have all the powers and passions of the mind sanctified for God.

THE TRUTH IMPLIED. The saints are exposed to danger, and require Divine protection.

There are dangers within us, and these arise from the depravity and corruption of the human heart; here is our worst enemy, and the seat of all evil.

There are dangers around us. The world with its flattering charms accosts our eye, and presents a gilded cup filled with deadly poison; and our adversary the devil goeth about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour, so that we have need to pray, "Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe."

THE SAFETY INSURED. "He will keep the feet of his saints," that is, all that belongs to them, even to the lowest part of the body, shall be under his care; he will establish their goings, keep them from falling, and order all their steps. Let us therefore commit our way to him, and go forth in his strength, resting on the arm of Omnipotence. We may meet opposition in our course, but it shall be overruled for good. The young tree that is shaken by the wind may lose some leaves, and some fruit too; but the root only strikes itself deeper into the ground, and the branches are prepared for a richer crop of fruit when the summer returns.

"He guards thy soul, he keeps thy breath, Where thickest dangers come; Go and return, secure from death, Till God shall call thee home."