"Search the Scriptures." The Greek word here rendered search signifies a strict, close, diligent search, such as men make when they are seeking gold, or hunters when they are in earnest after game. We must not rest content with having given a superficial reading to a chapter or two, but with the candle

of the Spirit we must deliberately seek out the hidden meaning of the word. Holy Scripture requires searching—much of it can only be learned by careful study. No man who merely skims the book of God can profit thereby; we must dig and mine until we obtain the hid treasure. The Scriptures claim searching.

As soldiers show their scars, and talk of battles, when they come at last to spend their old age in peace, so shall we in the dear land to which we are hastening speak of the faithfulness of God which brought us through all our conflicts. Therefore, as

the contests of earth prepare food for heavenly conversation, we would not wish to be without them. We cannot wish to hear it said of the white-robed host, "These are they which came out of great tribulation," and then to feel that we did not share with them.