THE ORNAMENT

 OCTOBER 23

THE ORNAMENT

The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16:31

Strive not try to hide your gray hair,
my venerable friend; they are no shame to thee,
they are rather thy glory,
if found in the way of righteousness.
 
If we are found in that way,
in which God justifies poor sinners by his grace,
 it is a choice mercy; and 

if we are found in that way,
in which God glorifies himself by 

the service of poor sinners,
it is a less mercy.

 If we are in God’s way, he brought us 

  into it by his grace;
  and if we have been kept in that way,
 then we have been kept in it by his grace.

If we have grown gray in God's service,
 then it is an honor to us.

It reflects glory on him; he acquires a credit 

  by our conduct and constancy.

An aged saint, who sought the Lord in youth,
who began to serve God almost before
   he began to serve the world, and
who has persevered for forty or fifty years,
 is an honorable character.
 
 
"The beauty of old men,” said Solomon,

   “is the gray head.”

And it is a beautiful sight to see

  the gray-headed Christian,
  happy in God;
  walking closely with God;
  to see him leaning on the faithful promises 

  that has supported him so many years;
 while daily endeavoring to lead sinners to Jesus;
  encouraging those who are seeking;
  comforting those who are cast down; and 

  bringing forth from the stores of his own experience,
  matter to stimulate and strengthen 

    those who are ready to halt.
 
Reader, is the head hoary?

 Has it acquired that colour in the service of my Master, Jesus?

By some, the gray head may be called the flag of death,
  by others it may be said to be frosted by age, 

  but God styles it, "a crown of glory!"

The gray head and the sanctified heart;
the gray head and the useful life,
are beautiful companions;
but the gray head and the black heart;
the gray head and a life spent in sin,
are woeful associates.
 
"Bless the LORD, O my soul:… 

  who crowneth thee with lovingkindness 

  and tender mercies; 
                                           Psalm 103:1,4
 

JAMES SMITH 1869