The Third of December.

WHAT DOEST THOU HERE --- 1 Kings 19:13.

"What doest thou here, Elijah?" --- 1 Kings 19:13.

Let this question be supposed as addressed to us: --- What doest thou in this world into which thou art sent? Art thou working "the work of him that sent thee," or standing all the day idle? How dost thou acquit thyself in the duties of thy particular calling? Art thou upright, conscientious and useful therein? Art thou in the post assigned thee by Heaven, truly called, and properly qualified for it? or hast thou thrust thyself into it without warrant or invitation; and therefore hast no cause to expect success?

What doest thou here in this retirement? Is the world shut out of thy thoughts, and are visits of the blessed Spirit invited? What doest thou here, if thy peace with an offended God is not already made, or more earnestly desired and sought after? If thou realy wantest peace and safety, plead the blood of Jesus, flee to the city of refuge before the avenger of blood overtake thee, and thou perish from the way. "Remember Lot's wife," and look not behind thee, lest thou become a monument of God's wrath.

What doest thou here in times of trial and temptation? Art thou flying from danger, and boldly facing it in the name and strength of the Lord? Art thou ashamed of the cross, or dost thou willingly take it upon thee? Elijah failed here; he fled from Jezebel. And did such a one as Elijah fear? Then howl, ye fir-trees, if the cedars be thus shaken; hold fast by Christ, ye weak ones, if the strong fall. What doest thou here below? Art thou pitching thy tent this side of Jordan, satisfied with thy present portion? or art thou looking to a better country, to a city that hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God? Life is uncertain, death approaches, the Judge is at the door: then, "Prepare to meet thy God."

Arm me with zealous care,
As in thy sight to live,
And thy weak servant Lord, prepare
A good account to give.

Devotion for December 3