The Twenty Eighth of May.

THOU SHALT NOT DIE --- 2 Samuel 12:13.

"I have sinned against the Lord. --- Divine Answer: "The Lord also hath put away thy sin: thou shalt not die." --- 2 Samuel 12:13.

"For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged." --- 1 Corinthians 11:31.

He that, with unfeigned repentance, accuses and judges himself, accounting his own righteousness and best doings as filthy rags, and seeks for mercy through Jesus, may expect forgiveness for all his sins at once, though chastisement may follow; for pardons are not bestowed in parcels or various measures, as spiritual gifts are.

God, through Christ, receives the whole person of a penitent sinner into his favour, forgiving both original and actual sins in one instant; so that either none or all are forgiven: but though repentance be needful to humble a sinner, and to bring him to Christ, yet no sins are forgiven on account of this repentance, but through faith alone in the blood of Christ.

This fountain washes away the guilt of all sins, though ever so numerous and heinous; for it is written, "The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." --- 1 John 1:7.

Show pity, Lord, O Lord, forgive,
Let a repenting rebel live:
Are not thy mercies large and free?
May not a sinner trust in thee?

My lips with shame my sins confess,
Against thy law, against thy grace;
Lord, should thy judgment grow severe.
I am condem'd, but thou art clear.

Should sudden vengeance seize my breath,
I must pronounce thee just in death;
And if my soul were sent to hell,
Thy righteous law approves it well.

My crimes are great, but not surpass
The power and glory of thy grace;
Great God, thy nature has no bound;
So let thy pardoning love be found.