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Let us, that we may realize this thirst of the soul, dwell upon the contrast. There are at least four forms of attraction presented to the soul.

I. THAT OF NATURAL BEAUTY. You find a delight as you gaze upon nature. But you are not satisfied.

II. Nor are you, either, with all the forms of MEN'S CEASELESS ACTIVITY, in which art, genius, or political achievement have expressed themselves — none of these things will ever, can ever, satisfy the soul.

III. PURE INTELLECT, also, notwithstanding the power of delight there is in it, has its limits in this respect. It does not satisfy. Then there is —

IV. THE REGION OF THE AFFECTIONS, where suns are always glorious, and sunsets only speak of brighter dawn. We have all known it in friend, sweetheart, wife, child, which have called forth the dear expressions of that strong heart that beats in Englishmen. But these dear ones pass away, and we find, as life goes on, that after all in the world of the affections, that old, strange law that pervades one branch of the contrast prevails: affection can stimulate, it can support, it can console, it can delight, it can lead to delirium at moments, but it does not satisfy. And because we are born for eternity, not for a moment, therefore, never, only by the satisfaction of the moral instincts, can this thirst be assuaged. The Ten Commandments, and especially the Gospel, are for this end. Accept a personal Christ, God in Christ, and so may you quench your otherwise unquenchable thirst.

(Canon Knox Little.)

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KJV: My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?

WEB: My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?