The First of January

HOSANNA --- Mark 11:9

A new scene of time now begins: put up thy hosannas, O my soul, that the Lord may save, bless, and prosper thee; may he grant thee a happy new year indeed! For this purpose begin it with a dedication of thyself to God; thy time, circumstances, and life are in his hands; implore his blessing and protection over thee this ensuing year.

Begin this and every following day with prayer; let God have thy first thoughts in the morning, the impression they make will not be easily erased by worldly matters. Grace is promised in the use of means, be thou diligent, then, and punctual in the performance of them; let thy daily request be for an increasing knowledge of thyself, and Jesus Christ in his offices; for a sense of pardoning mercy; for a lively, vigorous faith; for communion with the Father and the Son through the Spirit; for true holiness in heart and life; for strength and protection against thy spiritual foes, and for preserving grace to the end.

Pray for the prosperity of Zion; they prosper that love her; for thy friends and relations, begging the Almighty to take them into a covenant relation to himself; for blessings on thy worldly affairs; for a sanctified use of health or sickness, prosperity or adversity, as God shall be pleased to send.

Perhaps, O my soul, this may be the last year of the Lord's patience and thy pilgrimage. Is thy state safe? Are thou a real believer in Jesus? Is the oil of grace in thy vessel? If so, thou art prepared for every energency.

And now, my soul, another year
Of thy short life is past
I cannot long continue here;
And this may be my last.

Now a new scene of life begins;
Set out afresh for heaven;
Seek pardon for thy daily sins,
In Christ so freely given.