rudgingly retain it, we are defeating that end. This
sentiment must be riveted in our minds. It is a hard lesson for selfish
men to receive; yet it must be learnt. It is indeed the noblest idea of
our natures; the link that unites us to purer intelligences.

7. A lively remembrance of the Source of our blessings; realizing that
they are all streams from the Father of mercies. Had he been other than
Jehovah, they would long ere this have been stayed. For how have we
sinned, and forfeited every claim to good; and yet he has continued to
uphold and refresh us. We have repeated the sin, and under aggravated
form,--abused his bounties, despised his Son, grieved his Spirit,
disregarded his warnings, and slighted his entreaties; and still his
blessings have continued to flow as if nothing could provoke him to
withhold them. What unutterable goodness! What exhaustless mercy!
Surely the gifts of such mercy should be devoted to the works of mercy;
and how more appropriately than in aid of that wondrous scheme which the
agonized Jesus died to accomplish? While we enjoy our blessings, let us
turn our eyes upward to the overflowing Source, and while we gaze, let
the streams of gratitude gush forth. As we have freely received, freely
let us give.

8. The importance of praying over the gifts of Providence, and the
varied calls of charity. As the reception of our income should be one
of the special occasions of consecrating a portion to the Lord, so in
the gladness of the moment of its reception, we should make it our rule
to decide as to the amount to be thus consecrated on our knees before
God. Also, when the claims of the destitute are presented, let the
amount of our contributions be fixed upon so far as practicable in the
same way; determining, at whatever sacrifice to our own feelings, to
give just what God requires. Prayer, while a privilege at all times of
doubt and perplexity, is a special duty on such occasions;--first,
because, when alone with the Searcher of hearts, brought up, as it were,
into the full blaze of his presence, our consciences will be quickened,
and speak truthfully; while the humble attitude of the suppliant is
peculiarly fitted to inspire gratitude, and render it effective;--
secondly, because such are hours of special temptations; the adversary
of all good and our wicked hearts combining their efforts to prevent a
generous liberality; and there is great danger that selfishness, rather
than m