Accusing and Persuading.
By A. P. Lawton
THERE exists no more concord between these two spirits than between Christ and Belial. Satan is the accuser of the brethren—Christ died for them, and encourages them by precious promises. That no one needs reproof is neither supposable nor probable; but an accusing spirit can never reform them. Such should learn to be quiet until they get another spirit, and feel as Jesus did when he wept over Jerusalem. How painful it must have been to the blessed Jesus to witness their obstinacy; knowing as he did the fatal consequences. The tender heart of Him who was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin, is touched with the feelings of our infirmities. Jesus loved even sinners, and so do those who are like him. He speaks encouragingly to the truly penitent, and gives them precious promises. He weeps over them even in their seemingly-wilful blindness. Father, give us this spirit, that we may at least win some. W. Winfield, Dec. 25, 1870.