Joshua 23:16

REFLECTIONS

BLESSED Jesus! In the close of Joshua's ministry and labours, I see that all things and all men come to an end. But though Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and Joshua must die, yet thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. Oh! the sweet consoling thought! the Lord liveth, and blessed be my strong helper; and praised be the God of my salvation.

But though the saints and servants of my God go the way of all the earth, yet through thy grace, O Lord, the fruits of their labours, their zeal and patience, their prayers and examples, are left behind. Here would I, for myself and Reader, pray that the dying words and legacy of the man of God, might live in my remembrance. Oh! for grace to cleave unto thee, thou dearest Jesus, for thou art indeed my life. And in the awful day of idolatry, and the pleasure-loving age, in which the Lord hath cast our lot, Oh! for faith to resist stedfastly all the enemies of our salvation. Make them, O Lord, thorns and briars in our path; hedge up our way with thorns if need be, that we may never find such lovers. Keep our souls close unto thee, and so powerfully restrain us, by the sweet influences of thy Spirit, that we may be more and more dead unto the world, but alive unto God, through Jesus Christ our Lord.