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Were it possible, angels perhaps would gladly exchange their seats of bliss, their harps of gold, and their crowns of glory, for the opportunity of playing the part we have in the great drama of the universe.

I. BECAUSE OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD WHICH WE MAY HERE ACQUIRE. The more we know of God the more we shall love Him, and the more we love Him the more readily and efficiently shall we serve Him, and the more efficiently we serve Him the more exquisite the felicity we shall enjoy in His service. Now, there is a knowledge of God which we may acquire in the present life which we shall not have the opportunity of acquiring again. The method by which God is conducting the affairs of our world is different from any other; but it is only for a time. It has been adopted to secure a certain purpose, when that is secured it will cease (1 Corinthians 15:24, 28). Let us, then, improve the shining hour. If every thought of God will augment our eternal happiness and joy, let us seek to make the most and the best of life, by acquiring as full and comprehensive a knowledge of Him as the present life and state will admit.

II. BECAUSE OF THE GRACE OF GOD WHICH WE MAY HERE EXPERIENCE. As the sick child has a fuller and more demonstrative proof of the care, tenderness, and affection of an earthly parent than the child in heath, so we have a fuller and more demonstrative proof of the care, tenderness, and affection of our Heavenly Parent than even angels can have. Think of the constant attention the tender care, the loving forbearance required on the part of God to keep us from falling, to support us under trial, to bear with our mistakes and blunders, our fears and unbelief.

III. BECAUSE OF THE OBEDIENCE TO GOD WHICH WE MAY HERE DISPLAY. We are now encompassed with foes, beset with temptations, surrounded by opposing influences, and some of these are of the most subtle and alluring character. To obey God now, to pursue a course of unswerving adherence to His will and command now, is to give Him a higher and stronger proof of our fidelity and love than we shall have the opportunity of giving Him in any future state. And is God indifferent to such a proof of faithfulness and affection? He appreciates it with pleasure; He contemplates it with delight.

IV. BECAUSE OF THE WORK FOR GOD WHICH WE MAY HERE ACCOMPLISH.

V. BECAUSE OF THE REWARD WHICH WE MAY HERE OBTAIN. The right employment of every talent will ensure the more hearty commendation of the Master.

(B. Preece.)

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KJV: With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

WEB: I will satisfy him with long life, and show him my salvation." A Psalm. A song for the Sabbath day.