to the influences of heaven, and within thee the divine light will shine brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. But if thou art cold and neglectful, then it is not well. However moral thy general character, however blameless to the outward eye, thy daily transactions, however much thou mayest be admired by society and caressed by friends, something is wanting, and something of vital importance. Unless Reason and Revelation are utterly false, unless Christ, and the Apostles, and devout men of all ages, have been deluded, however good we may be in outward things, if we love not prayer with a deep and soul-stirring love, something is wanting; and, my friend, I implore thee seriously to weigh this matter; look into thy soul, and, as in the presence of Almighty God, reflect upon these words, "WATCH AND PRAY." |