It is a great thing, in these days of unconcern and carelessness in spiritual responsibilities to be steadfast. One may not be brilliant, and may seem to have no special gift, but if he is reliable he is a power for good. In the heavenly warfare (Eph. 6) the word "stand" is prominent. It shows the courage which is ready to meet the enemy, and gives promise of victory. After his wonderful exposition of the great doctrine of the resurrection (I Cor. 15), the Apostle concludes, as a practical outcome of that doctrine, with the earnest appeal:"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." What an inducement to steadfastness! Christ is victorious; we, through Him, are sure to be "more than conquerors." Let us, then, stand firm in our daily walk, our testimony, and in all that relates to our fellowship with another. How much good one does who is always present at the prayer and reading meeting! His steadfastness in that is a constant example to others. And so in everything else. The Church needs gifts, and Christ has provided them; but it needs simple daily steadfastness on the part of all.

FRAGMENT "I have stuck unto Thy testimonies:O Lord, put me not to shame" (Psa. 119:31).

Be "thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life" (Rev. 2:10).