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Humanity is a brotherhood, and the language of Job finds response in many a pious heart.

I. DECLENSION IS THE FIRST THOUGHT SUGGESTED BY THESE WORDS. This may have been scarcely perceptible, for as spiritual life is developed not by violent moods, not by spasmodic impulses, but gradually; as its influx is like the inflowing of the tides, so spiritual declension is gradual — it does not register itself, it is comparatively unconscious. Still, there are specific causes out of which it is produced.

1. Religious speculation. It will not do to tamper with compass or chart. What shall prevent a vessel from drifting out of its course if the needle has been made to deflect from its true position? Bible truths should be held inviolable — not that there should be unreasoning and blind acceptance of religious beliefs, but there are certain truths commended to us which are beyond controversy.

2. The cares of the world. These are fruitful causes of spiritual declension. It was no wonder that Peter would fain remain on Tabor's summit with Christ. Under a tropical sun, nursed by the balmy air, rich and luscious fruits easily ripen; so, near the Throne, in moments akin to the hour of transfiguration, Christian graces rapidly develop; but the hourly contact with the busy world, its anxieties and distractions, are apt to be prejudicial to piety and to warp the Christian character.

3. Neglect of the means of grace. These are commended, not arbitrarily. They are the laws of the spiritual life — essential conditions of growth.

II. SOLICITUDE IS A HOPEFUL INDICATION. It is a sign of spiritual life. The Church at Laodicea was charged with indifferentism. "I would ye were either cold or hot."

III. THE DESIRE MAY BE FULFILLED.

(John Love.)

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KJV: Oh that I were as in months past, as in the days when God preserved me;

WEB: "Oh that I were as in the months of old, as in the days when God watched over me;