_OVERCHARGING THE HEART_
LUKE xxi. 25-36.
Here is a great peril. Our hearts may be "_overcharged with surfeiting,
and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you
unawares_." Our mode of living may send our spirits to sleep. Yes, we may
so ill-use our bodies that the watchman sleeps at his post! We can
over-eat, and dim our moral sight. A man's daily meals have vital
relationship with his vision of the Lord. If I would have a clear spirit I
must not overburden the flesh.
And therefore am I bidden to "_take heed_" to myself. I must exercise
common sense, the most important of all the senses. I must put a bridle
upon my appetite, and hold it in subjection to my Lord.
And I must "_watch_!" The devil is surpassingly cunning, and, if he can,
he will mix an opiate even with the sacramental wine. He will lure me
among the winsome poppies, and put me into a perilous sleep.
And I must "_pray_!" I have a great and glorious Defender! Let me humbly
yet confidently use Him, and I shall be delivered from the snares of
appetite, and from the benumbing influence of all excess.