February 9

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he hath been approved, he shall receive the crown of life. — Jas 1:12

A man’s own observation, what he finds good of, and what he finds hurt of, is the best physic to preserve health. But it is a safer conclusion to say, “This agreeth not well with me, therefore I will not continue it”; than to say, “I find no offense of this, therefore I may use it.” For strength of nature in youth passeth over many excesses, which are owing a man till his age.
— Francis Bacon.

Though man a thinking being is defined,
Few use the grand prerogative of mind.
How few think justly of the thinking few!
How many never think, who think they do!
— Jane Taylor.

Prayer

Almighty God, I would learn that while thou art a forgiving Lord, nature has no mercy on them that break her laws. Forgive me for all my neglect, and help me to see the way in which thou hast through mercy led me. Give me the power to endure and the strength to resist temptation. May I seek to understand thy laws, that I may not fail through ignorance. Amen.