COME AND LET US RETURN UNTO THE LORD.

 

JANUARY 31

Come and let us return unto the Lord.
Hosea 6:1

 

We have wandered from him,
  in our thoughts,
    in our desires, and
      in our pursuits.
 
We have been running after other lovers,
   and set up idols in our hearts.
 
Our conduct has been sinful;
   and the effect most injurious to ourselves.
 
Come then, and let us return to the Lord.
 
He is willing to receive us.
He will readily pardon us.
 
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and
   just to forgive us our sins, and
     to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
 
Let us fall at his feet, and
   frankly confess our folly.
 
Let us endeavour to turn our thoughts,
  desires, and affections back to him again.
 
Especially, let us seek from him
  the Spirit of grace and supplication,
  for without his holy operations,
  there will be no godly sorrow,
   no hatred of sin,
     no self abhorrence,
       no faith in the promises,
or restoration of the joys of salvation.
 
We must return, or our sins will be aggravated.
We must return, or our miseries will be deep.
 
Let us then at once,
  without any delay,
    take with us words, and
      approach his throne.
 
We may plead his past mercies,
  we may plead his glorious name,
   we may plead a Saviour's blood,
     nor can we plead in vain.
 
Hear him call,--
 
Return, O wanderer, return!
And seek thine injured Father's face!
Those new desires that in thee burn,
Were kindled by reclaiming grace.
 
James Smith 1849