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perplexed scene will end; whilst the Christian, instructed by the word and spirit of his Savior, calmly views the turning of the dreadful wheels, and knows which way they proceed. Strengthened by divine grace he stands undaunted in the mighty commotion, and looks up rejoicing that his prayers are heard, and that his redemption draweth nigh.

4. How influential the MOTIVE suggested by this prediction to engage in strenuous exertions to propagate the Gospel! How forcible the argument to persevere in the benevolent work! When Daniel understood by books the number of years, whereof the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet, his attention was fixed; his affections were raised; and it operated as a motive to intercede for the accomplishment of the prophecy; agreeably to the maxim, that will be inquired of by the house of Israel to do it for them. - The pious captives anxiously waiting for their restoration, were no doubt instructed by Daniel, and joined with him in supplicating the throne of grace. The word passed rapidly among the scattered families, and they gladly prepared for the impending change. It is supposed that Daniel, who, from his former station at the king's court, might easily obtain access to Cyrus, communicated to that prince, with suitable and successful arguments, the part assigned in prophecy for him to fulfil. ^*   In this way the prophet was instrumental

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*   Something similar to what is here suggested did actually happen with Alexander the Great, to whom the high priest Jaddus, "showed the book of the prophet Daniel, and in it the prediction of the overthrow of the Persian Empire, by a certain Grecian king, whom Alexander interpreted to be himself. Pleased with this reflection, he offered to grant the people any request they should desire of him by their high priest." And as he had declared to Parmenio, "he made no doubt of gaining his point in all his undertakings, to his utmost wish, as he made war under the direction of that Supreme Being, to whom in the person of his high priest, he paid adoration." The whole account of this remarkable occurrence is worthy of notice. It was a singular interposition of Divine Providence in favor of the Jews, while they were under the government and protection of the theocracy. - See Josephus's "Antiquities of the Jews," book xi. chap. 8.

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in Divine Providence to bring forward the completion of the promise. He united exertions with his prayers. He felt the influence of the motive; and the grace which was bestowed upon him was not in vain.

In like manner, let Christians now be wise, and receive instruction. Ye, Brethren, are not in darkness that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of day; we are not of the night nor of the darkness, therefore let us not sleep as do others, but let us watch and be sober. It is time for the wise virgins who have slumbered to arise and trim their lamps. The cry is made, behold, the Bridegroom cometh! He cometh to send his Gospel abroad, and bless the world with his truth and righteousness.

It is an hour to be employed in the service of the Redeemer. I had rather be a door keeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. It is a privilege to be laborers together with God. - It is a pleasant work, to go up to the mountain and bring wood and build the house, when we are convinced the time is come, and the Lord saith, he will take pleasure in it, and will be glorified.

Every motive which stimulates to vigorous efforts in propagating the Gospel, derives additional force and energy from this word of prophecy. Is the glory of God an impressive argument? Attend to the prediction before us, and be encouraged to hope, that God, who hath glorified his holy name, will soon glorify it again. He will make himself known throughout the whole earth, not only in his divine perfections, as the one only true God, but in the adorable manner of his existence, as Father, Son and Holy Ghost, and will be worshipped everywhere in the blessed relation of EDEEMER as well as Creator. Doth the love of Christ constrain? Have you crowned him with your homage; and often grieved at the contempt cast upon his precious name and cause? See what is doing in the Churches! To him every knee will bow; The Most