Page:The Book of Family Worship.pdf/92

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whom we come in contact. Shonld the aged advise us, may we with reverence listen to their counsel; and while we behold in them, the calm and sober satisfaction which a life of virtue has stamped upon their venerable brow, may we rejoice that such models of virtue are permitted to be our instructors. Or should the young advise us, may we listen to them with calm approval of their virtuous exhortations, and thank Thee, our God, that Thy heavenly influences have so early impressed their souls. Thus whatsoever our trial may be, may we be enabled still to elevate our affections above the things of the world. May a humble dependence on Thy providence be the secret for soothing us in all our states of trial and adversity; then will the wheels of time, how swift soever in their revolution, only tend to increase our enjoyment by a speedy translation to life eternal. Amen.

Our Father, etc.


WEDNESDAY MORNING.

LORD we acknowledge with shame and confusion of face, that though we are willing to accept the overtures of Thy mercy, and would gladly become partakers of heavenly joys, we still desire to traverse the road to heaven in our own way. We are not willing to part with worldly station, worldly wealth, or worldly friends and connections, and yet Thou hast expressly declared, unless we forsake ALL that we have we cannot be Thy disciples. We are more afraid of the censures of the world, than filled with the assurance that all-sufficiency is of Thee.

Great Father of eternity whose glance is not measured by things present, whose dispensations are not regulated by worldly friends, or worldly connections, or worldly wealth, but sees into the future, and so orders and arranges, that the eternal good of Thy creatures may be secured: God of love, God of mercy, help us, as we see Thy truth, to bring our wills under Thy supreme control. Are we in poverty? aid us to be content; for how easily is the soul ensnared at the table of luxury. Are we humbled? by Thy righteous dispensations give us grace to submit. And are we by Thy guidance able to walk soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world? O may we never wish to throw off "Thy easy yoke for how dangerous to our progress is the voice of flattery, and how apt to beget spiritual pride!

Aid us, then. O most merciful Father, that we may acquire the temper and spirit which at all times and under all sufferings possesses the soul in peace. Bind this family and all mankind in the ties of brotherhood and of Christian love. While truth shines abroad through the medium of Thy word, displaying Thy wisdom and the perfection of Thy love may we and all mankind be brought to surrender ourselves to Thy divine guidance, so shall we be safely conducted from this world to the heavens. Amen.

Our Father, etc.

WEDNESDAY EVENING.

LORD Jesus Christ, the great Head of Thy Church: 0 establishment throughout the world. O may we. Who srofees ts