ce, life is so constructed, as to make man feel his own weakness,
and his dependance upon Divine power. The recurrence of seasons of
trouble and sorrow, makes a perpetual demand upon our faith.
Reason tries in vain to disentangle the intricate dispensations of
Providence, and nature sinks under the force of innumerable trials,
which, like successive waves beat incessantly upon it. The only
resource is faith in God; and when once we grasp the sure promise,
'all things work together for good to them that love God;' light
springs up in the darkness: and all that comfort, which might arise
from a clear discovery of the processes of Providence, is realized in
the assurance that all shall be well,--an assurance given by Him who
cannot lie, confirmed by an oath, sealed with the blood of Christ, and
verified by the experience of God's people in all ages. It is thus
the christian's privilege to rejoice always, if not in His afflictions
which are grievous, yet in the Lord, who ruleth all things well. Mrs.
Lyth knew this to be possible, she aimed at it, and though not always
with equal success, she walked by 'faith and not by sight.'

"1843.--I have been privileged to attend the house of God, after an
absence of some weeks through affliction; but with grief I confess,
that when I first got out to see my daughter, who has also been ill,
I neglected the opportunity of social prayer and thanksgiving, that
we were again permitted to see each other. My ingratitude stares me in
the face. Against Thee, O Lord, against Thee only, have I sinned.--My
John is preaching his trial sermon. My husband and servant are hearing
him; and I have been alone, praying for him, that he may neither go
before, nor stay behind the call of God. I feel the Lord is present,
and my heart goes out after Him.--I was called up a little after five
to attend upon my daughter-in-law. A beautiful morning. I reproached
myself for so often losing the sweet perfume of the morning air. When
I arrived the babe was born. So another immortal spirit is added to my
family. Praise God, the promise reaches to them all.--Collecting
for the missions in one of the poorest districts, we peeped into a
comfortless spot, where lived a poor widow with five children. We did
not wish to ask for anything, but were obliged to give a reason for
our stepping in. The woman said however, that it was a good cause, and
she would give us something. This was truly the widow's mite, and will
not pas