March 14

"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." — Romans 15:13.

THIS is the best desire we can express on behalf of those whom we love and wish well to. Note

THE BLESSINGS IMPLORED. They refer not to the wants of the body, but to those of the soul, the nobler part of our being. Let us, then, look at them.

Joy. This is a feeling the Gospel is designed and well calculated to impart — a joy that is solid in its foundation, reasonable in its nature, holy in its tendency, and lasting in its duration.

Peace. This blessing refers to the tranquillity of a conscience calmed by the blood of Christ; an inward composure and serenity of mind, arising from the delightful persuasion of our reconciliation to God. It results not from ignorance of our danger, but the knowledge of our safety.

Hope. The Christian's hope is not founded on the rotten basis of human merit, but the firm foundation of God's grace. It is heavenly in its origin, influences, and consummation.

THE MEASURE DESIRED. Our danger is not in asking too much from God, but in expecting too little. Paul prays for the Romans,

That they might be filled with all joy and peace. There is a fulness and satisfaction in religion which the world can never yield. How much enjoyment in the divine life we lose by our indifference! We are often mourning in the valley of despondency, when we might be rejoicing on the mount of assurance; we are often driven backwards and forwards, and hindered in our progress, when we might be going full sail towards the destined port.

That they might abound in hope. The aboundings of hope produce feelings of joy. We may entertain a hope of heaven, and have a good hope, yet not be said to abound in it. It should be our first care to possess it, and then to have it more abundantly.

How happy is the Christian's state!

His sins are all forgiven;

A cheering joy confirms the grace,

And lifts his hopes to heaven.