p. 724 | Burns, Wis by H. T. H. Sanborn

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Tuesday, November 18, 1884

FromAdvent Review and Sabbath Herald, Vol. 61, No. 46

Burns, Wis

By H. T. H. Sanborn

MORNING THOUGHTS. - NO. 1.

BY MRS. H. T. H. SANBORN.

How very precious are these quiet morning hours! how calm and peaceful their influence on the mind! All nature seems to bow in silent reverence to her God. This perfect stillness, all unbroken by the din and confusion of the noisy world, lends a sacred, hallowed influence to the hour. The very atmosphere seems subdued. The stars glisten their harmony, and the queen of the night presides brilliantly over all. Gazing on the lovely scene, one feels the truthfulness of the psalmist's language: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork.” In the enjoyment of such surroundings that heart must be recreant indeed which would not be drawn out in longings for a closer walk with God. Yes, the loyal heart joyfully and lovingly yields to the influences of this quiet morning hour, and the soul communes with God. Precious privilege bestowed on sinful mortals, thus to approach the Majesty of heaven! In prolonged meditation the heart is humbled, and an overwhelming sense of unworthiness leads one to fall at the feet of the dear, merciful Saviour, there in submissive pleadings to find rest. Thus the opportunity of the morning proves to be a lasting benefit, since it prepares one to meet the perplexities of the day with a spirit of meekness very becoming in the child of God. Now as the orb of day outshines the lesser lights the language of the poetess, Elizabeth Scott, seems peculiarly appropriate:—

“See how the morning sun Pursues his shining way; And wide proclaims his Maker's praise, With every brightening ray.

“Thus would my rising soul Its heavenly Parent sing, And to its great original The humble tribute bring.

“Serene I laid me down, Beneath his guarding care; I slept, and I awoke, and found My kind Preserver near.

“My life I would anew Devote, O Lord, to thee; And in thy kingdom I would spend A bright eternity.”