first Thursday I devoted to God.
Lord, make me faithful in the discharge of the trust reposed in me.--I
am this morning left alone; yet not alone. I feel a blessed sense
of the divine presence, which enables me to anticipate my heavenly
inheritance; but not for any merit in me: oh no! on Jesus hangs my
hope. To me belongeth shame and confusion of face; for my best doings
are polluted, and all my good is from Himself. Praised be His name for
the change effected in my mind. The saints of God are my delight,
the word of God my treasure, and communion with God my greatest
joy.--Through mercy, although feeble in body, I am better than during
last week. Yet even then I enjoyed peace, and when weakest, my faith
has been strongest; I could commit all into His hands; still I see
myself a poor empty creature. It is all of grace, through Jesus.
Precious name!"

Afflictions, from Thy gracious hand,
Unmingled blessings prove;
The rod, prepared at Thy command,
Displays a Father's love.

Beneath its weight, submissive, Lord,
Upward to Thee I look;
"Expect according to Thy word,"
A blessing in the stroke.

May every pain be sanctified;
And every grace improve;
Till freed from dross, like silver tried,
My soul is only love.

No tear shall then bedew my eyes,
No grief my bosom swell;
The note of gratitude shall rise,
Thou hast done all things well.

"My dear mother has had a fall, and has been much indisposed in
consequence. I am thankful to have her so near me, as it is a pleasure
to perform my duty as a child. In this, and every other relation, may
I be found faithful.--I rose very early, as I felt concerned about
my dear mother; and went to her room-door, between three and four
o'clock; but as Mary had fastened it within, I could not obtain
admittance. However, I betook myself to prayer, and commended her to
the Lord. This passage was strongly impressed upon my mind: 'The Lord
will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing; Thou wilt make all
his bed in his sickness.'--I spent the day at H., in the company of
some friends not decidedly devoted to God. The Lord kept me, and I
am thankful I came home without condemnation. I was favoured with an
opportunity of speaking with each of them respecting their spiritual
state, and the things of eternity.--For some time I have been
surrounded by hurry and excitement, and longing for a little
retirement. At length, in a way I did not