Watchman And Observer

Silent Sabbaths.

It is not every one who has the privilege of sitting under the ministry of the word every Sabbath. Many congregations are supplied only once a fortnight, or once a month; and even then there may be interruptions; or causes may arise to prevent the attendance of some of their members. Now these silent Sabbaths should be turned to the best practical account by reading, meditation and prayer. Nor is this all. The christian heads of a family may gather their households around them, and spend a portion of the day in giving them special instruction in the knowledge of God's word. Or several families in the same vicinity may meet to read, and pray, and praise with advantage to themselves, and to the edification of one another—always remembering that the children as well as the parents are included in the promises of the Covenant. Efforts may also be made at least with the hope of success, to bring under the influence and teachings of the gospel such as seldom embrace the privilege of attending church, when opportunity offers. And it would be well for all christians to remember that the Sabbath is God's and should be spent in his service; and that if it be a silent one, it may be their fault if it is unprofitable. It is the hand of the diligent that maketh rich, as well in spiritual as in temporal things.