The Fourth of December.

HAPPY IS THE MAN --- Proverbs 28:14.

"Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net." --- Psalm 25:15.

"Happy is the man that feareth alway." --- Proverbs 28:14.

O how long can some enemies hide themselves with their nets before our eyes, and draw in all of a sudden! It is unspeakable how cunning and powerful our enemies are; how they lie in wait everywhere, so that in all places, and at all times, we are surrounded with cruel murderers of souls! Blessed is he that keeps clear from self confidence, and, fearing always within himself, as soon as he awakes in the morning. Who knows what temptations I may meet today? Perhaps, when I arise, by the first step my feet may be entangled in dangerous snares and nets.

And, as self confidence ever will be ashamed, and a firm confidence in the Lord shall never fail, (Romans 9:33.), grant, O Lord I beseech thee, that, distrusting myself, I may fully put my trust in thee, watching evermore in all things, and looking cautiously in all places about me, where there is any fear of danger. Whatever I am about to do or speak, let me converse with thee by prayer; that, keeping always close to thee, I may be preserved against the power and craft of my enemies, as in a stronghold; and confidently say, according to thy own pattern, given Psalm 16:8. --- "I have set the Lord always before me, because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved."

God is my portion and my joy
His counsels are my light;
He gives me sweet advice by day
And gentle hints by night.

My soul would all her thoughts approve
To his all-seeing eye;
Nor death nor hell my hope shall move,
While such a friend is nigh.

Devotion for December 4