In many things we offend all

THERE is none righteous, no not one. We were all guilty of death; and though we have been justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and are sanctified by the good Spirit of God, yet still we often offend God. There is much in our tempers, habits, motives, and pursuits, which must be offensive to him. He wishes us to be holy. He commands us to be holy. We really desire to be holy. But there is so much corruption in our hearts, and the power of corruption is so great, that we are often betrayed into that which is wrong. What a mercy for us that the blood of Jesus is still efficacious, that the fountain is still open, that we can repair to it whenever we feel guilt on our own consciences, and that it cleanses from all sin. But for the precious blood of Jesus, we must often sink into despair. Let us prize that invaluable remedy for human guilt. But if we all offend, we all ought to be humble, for we all need pardon. If we all offend, we ought not to be severe in our censures, for in judging others we may condemn ourselves.

    Slain in the guilty sinner's stead,
Jesus, thy righteousness I plead,

    And thy atoning blood;
Thy perfect work my robe shall be,
Thy merit shall atone for me,

    And bring me near to God.