December 30

O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. — Jer 10:23

I will direct all his ways. — Isa 45:13

Come, Light serene and still!
Our darkened spirits fill
With thy clear day:
Guide of the feeble sight,
Star of grief’s darkest night,
Reveal the path of right,
Show us Thy way.
—ROBERT II. OF FRANCE.

There had been solemn appointed seasons in Anna’s life, when she was accustomed to enter upon a full and deliberate survey of her business in this world. The claims of each relationship, and the results of each occupation, were then examined in the light of eternity. It was then, too, her fervent prayer to be enabled to discern the will of God far more perfectly, not only in the indications given of it for her guidance through each day’s occupations, but as it might concern duties not yet brought home to her conscience, and therefore unprovided for in her life. —SARAH W. STEPHEN.