How blessed to realize that "The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers." It is well for us, in firm confidence in Him, to take our stand for that which is right in His sight. With "the armor of righteousness" we can stand against "the wiles of the devil," and "the prayer of the righteous man availeth much." To seek a reputation for ourselves is indeed poor occupation; but to "be careful to maintain good works," and to "have a good report of them that are without" are exhortations we will do well to take heed to. An evil day is this we are passing through. How it becomes us, then, to be on our guard, "watching unto prayer."

Josephus, after visiting the early disciples, brought back the report, "they are determined to do no evil thing,"-a "purpose of heart" that might well take hold upon us all. How is it, clear brethren, with us ? Is this a guiding principle in your daily life ? In the home, in business, in the assembly of the saints, in our dealings with them that are without ? How often there is that allowed in the more secret affairs of one's life '' that doth eat as a canker," doing its hidden but deadly work, until all power in the soul to do right is lost. Not hidden, however, the result, which must be sooner or later manifest, and practically ruin the Christian life. The voice of prayer, praise, or exhortation is unheard; the soul becomes withered up, love grows cold, and the sacred tie of fellowship with one's brethren seems all but snapped. And why? No one can account for it. Ah, dear reader, if it be so with you, you know something about it. Then let there be instant confession; let this hour find you bowed in the Father's presence, and tell Him all; for " If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (i John, 1-9.)

"He restoreth my soul. He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." This is his way, for " the righteous Lord loveth righteousness." Let this have its full weight with us, for "the
eyes of the Lord are over the righteous"; "but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil." Therefore, "Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good."

" God " Himself "shall be with " us, and shall sustain us in such a path. This is one of the "exceeding great and precious promises" not only of the Old Testament, but also of the New. "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, think on these things, and the God of peace shall be with you." (Phil. 4:) "All" our cares He bids us "cast upon" Him, for "He careth" for us. " All " our need He will supply.

"God is for us," "and the Lord is with you while ye be with Him." (i Chron. 15:1-15.) "Submit yourselves therefore to God." "Resist the devil and he will flee from you." "Draw nigh unto God and He will draw nigh unto you." (James 4:7, 8.) W. M. H.