shall be in some degree commensurate to the goodness of
the Lord to him.

In these last suggestions, a vital principle in systematic beneficence
is developed, which challenges our special attention. _It is, the duty
of making provision for the dissemination of charity previous to the
reception of our income_. This is a point of immense importance, and
may by no means be overlooked; though it is a point which Christians
have too much lost sight of. They have been awake neither to the
enjoyment nor obligations growing out of it. It is time that its solemn
utterances should pierce the heart, and arouse the conscience of every
follower of the Lamb, and startle him from his slumbers. They should
reverberate through every dwelling in Zion. It is a principle of
universal application. All, whether rich or poor, should make it an
abiding rule of conduct. There is no difficulty in the way. While, of
course, the rich should fix upon a higher proportion of income than the
indigent, each one can decide upon some percentage adapted to his
peculiar circumstances, and at stated periods lay up in store as the
Lord prospers him. Every one, as St. Paul clearly taught the
Corinthians, should have "a savings-bank" for charity.

The results of this principle would indeed be most happy, on whatever
ground the previous arrangements should be made. In the first place, it
would greatly increase the sum total of our contributions to the Lord.
It would be acting on an acknowledged maxim in the acquisition of
wealth. We know if we have a debt of ten dollars, an hundred dollars,
or any sum within our possible ability to pay, the money will be by some
means obtained; whereas, otherwise it will be extremely liable to be
consumed in the ordinary flow of expenses. Thriving men, sometimes on
this principle, keep constantly a little debt by the purchase of
valuable property, knowing that it will stimulate their industry and
frugality to meet the anticipated payment. Here men are not afraid to
trust the past goodness of the Lord; why will they not be equally wise
and confiding in the godlike work of benevolence?

It would also deepen our sense of personal devotement to Christ; leading
us constantly to feel that our minds employed in planning, and our hands
engaged in labor, are the Lord's, and must be used in his service. It
would likewise promote the ease and cheerfulness with which our
appropriations would be made, and materially enhanc