able to render him all needed assistance. And the
influence of judicious friends had somewhat lessened the gloomy effects of
his former training. He applied himself to the study of the best authors,
diligently treasuring their most weighty thoughts, and making the wisdom
of the wise his own. Even under the harsh discipline of his former
instructors, he had early given promise of distinction; and with favorable
influences his mind rapidly developed. A retentive memory, a lively
imagination, strong reasoning powers, and untiring application, soon
placed him in the foremost rank among his associates. Intellectual
discipline ripened his understanding, and aroused an activity of mind and
a keenness of perception that were preparing him for the conflicts of his
life.

The fear of the Lord dwelt in the heart of Luther, enabling him to
maintain his steadfastness of purpose, and leading him to deep humility
before God. He had an abiding sense of his dependence upon divine aid, and
he did not fail to begin each day with prayer, while his heart was
continually breathing a petition for guidance and support. "To pray well,"
he often said, "is the better half of study."(159)

While one day examining the books in the library of the university, Luther
discovered a Latin Bible. Such a book he had never before seen. He was
ignorant even of its existence. He had heard portions of the Gospels and
Epistles, which were read to the people at public worship, and he supposed
that these were the entire Bible. Now, for the first time, he looked upon
the whole of God's word. With mingled awe and wonder he turned the sacred
pages; with quickened pulse and throbbing heart he read for himself the
words of life, pausing now and then to exclaim, "O that God would give me
such a book for myself!"(160) Angels of heaven were by his side, and rays
of light from the throne of God revealed the treasures of truth to his
understanding. He had ever feared to offend God, but now the deep
conviction of his condition as a sinner took hold upon him as never
before.

An earnest desire to be free from sin and to find peace with God, led him
at last to enter a cloister, and devote himself to a monastic life. Here
he was required to perform the lowest drudgery, and to beg from house to
house. He was at an age when respect and appreciation are most eagerly
craved, and these menial offices were deeply mortifying to his natural
feelings; but he patiently endured this hu