2. The infinite superiority of the Divine Word to that of all earthly traditions, and the best literary productions is best judged by results. The works of Plato, Lycurgus, Demosthenes, Homer, Virgil, Dante, Milton, Scott, Burns, Bryant, and Longfellow are not for one moment to be compared to the Bible. When Scott, the great writer, was departing life, he turned to his son-in-law, Lockhart, and said:
"Bring me the Book."
"What book?" asked Lockhart.
"There is but one Book—the Bible!" was the reply. What spiritual and spontaneous enthusiasm in Divine things are stirred within us when we read the sacred pages.
Now turn to the picture painted by her who is now with the redeemed on high; she says:
"After receiving the Bible they were greatly changed, and attended our place of worship on the Sabbath. They gave evidence of being now deeply impressed." What impressed them? Two things worthy of notice: 1. The Word. 2. The Worship. Now, there are some people who imagine that they can go to heaven if they stay at home and read the Bible. This is all very well in its place, but we must not forget the assembling of ourselves together as the manner of some is. Some try to live a Christian life outside of the Church. This is a sad mistake.
CHAPTER XVI.
STRUGGLES AND TRIUMPHS.
Oh! land of the blessed, thy shadowless skies