sustained in deep affliction, though long continued trial and sorrow and
loss, by this unseen spiritual power. On the other hand, experience and
observation show us constantly recurring examples of discontent,
peevishness, unhappiness, on the part of those who appear to be
specially favored in the possession of the comforts and riches of this
life. Lord Chesterfield said that, having seen and experienced all the
pomps and pleasures of life, he was disgusted with and hated them all,
and only desired, like a weary traveler, to be allowed "to sleep in the
carriage" until the end came. But Paul the apostle, contemplating the
close of his eventful life of sorrow and suffering, said: "I have fought
the good fight? I have finished the course? I have kept the faith:
henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness."

So it seems only a reasonable appeal to every young heart, as soon as it
is mature enough to understand and make choice among the realities and
verities of life, to choose this better part; to keep the heart
receptive to and expectant of this divine comfort and help; to seek to
know and obey the will of this God of all consolation. But this choice
is a purely individual matter. No one can make another person good any
more than he can make him happy. All that anyone, all that the wisest
and best teachers and parents can do, is to present the arguments for
and urge the choice of the better part.

But if it is chosen, or if there is a desire to be enabled to choose it,
what a help and stimulus comes from the reading and study of the Bible,
especially of the Psalms and the New Testament! Therein are recorded
every phase of the spiritual experiences of humanity in its aspiration
after a knowledge of God. Therein are recorded the words and precepts of
"the Great Teacher sent from God," who said that he and the Father were
one, and that he was sent of God to seek and save the lost. Here are the