are very ready to speak against these unhappy sisters. We make no apologies for the crimes of those who have yielded to temptation, but we do ask, is there room for our rebukes when we are not without sin?
Perhaps this book may be read by our sisters who have gone astray. To such, we say, in the words of Jesus, (verse 11.)
“Sin no more!”
You are not obliged to do so. No one is. There is always a way made for those who truly repent. Call upon Jesus, the Friend of sinners, and He will open a door of hope for you. To persevere in sin, is only to ruin soul and body too. Perhaps you have parents living, who long to see you, and who would be glad to take you to their hearts. Give them the joy of having you near them once more. Is it not in your power to answer their prayer—
“O God! give me my daughter once more!”
If you are absolutely friendless, so far as earth is concerned, you have your Heavenly Father. He is always within call, and He has said, in His word, “Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” On the other hand, there is the “Father of lies.” He who tempted the first woman, and led her astray, and taught her to lead the man wrong. This evil one is whispering in your ear—“There is no hope.” “It is too late.” “Better have a short life and a merry one.”
Heed him not, Sister!
He is a liar! He means thy destruction! God calls, and calls thee to pardon and peace. Obey Him, and hope shall spring again, and light return to thy poor heart.
XXVIII. “OFFER IT NOW UNTO THY GOVERNOR.”
Malachi i. 8.
We beg to suggest to those who want a new text that will strike and stick, that they should look through Malachi’s book. There are plenty of texts like splinters therein. The words that head this article are part of an appeal to the people on the question of right service. The prophet was indignant with his country people, who wished to combine prayer with parsimony, and worship with worldly policy. He complained that they dare not offer to their superiors what they sent as a sacrifice to God. Might not some Christians be asked the same questions? Would the “Governor” accept the present God was supposed to be glad to get? Who would think of trying to get into the good graces of any one by sending a spavined horse, or a cow with foot-and-mouth-disease, as a present?