The Seventh of August.

BE YE NOT UNWISE --- 2 Corinthians 6:17.

"See that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of God is." --- Ephesians 5:15, 17.

"That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence." --- Philippians 1:10. See also Luke 12:36.

Believers have nothing more at heart than the will of God; being convinced of that, they immediately set about it at all hazards; but sometimes they cannot come to a throrough knowledge of the same without conflicts and patience, Hebrews 10:36.

For the flesh is exceedingly crafty and froward: and though often forbid to go, it is often calling out, "Howsoever let me run," 2 Samuel 18:23. But the Lord will, nevertheless, carry them through. Yes, Lord, this thou hast done innumerable times. Oh that I might trust thee also for the time to come, and not be so weak in faith any more.

Beloved self must be denied,
The mind and will renew'd;
Passion suppress'd, and patience tried,
And vain desires subdued.

Flesh is a dang'rous foe to grace,
Where it prevails and rules;
Flesh must be humbled, pride abased,
Lest they destroy our souls.

Lord, can a feeble, helpless worm,
Fulfil so hard a task?
Thy grace must all my works perform,
And give the free reward.