Cora S. Day, in _The Interior_, illustrates in the following
paragraphs the value of the Bible as a book of directions:
They were looking through the medicine-chest in search of a
needed remedy when there came to light a half-filled vial, whose
torn label held but a part of the directions for use.
“Might as well throw this away. I have forgotten what it is,
what it is for and how to take it,” said the finder.
“Yes, take it out. It is no good without the directions,” agreed
the other. So the medicine was set aside.
There are a good many things that are no good to us without the
directions. Without the knowledge of how to use it, the most
useful tool or machine is of no more value to a man than so
much junk. With the directions, it becomes his assistant, his
servant, and does good work for him.
If you buy a sewing-machine, or a typewriter, for instance, you
are given a book of instructions which tells how to use it. In
addition, the agent usually gives you personal instructions
in its operation, making its ordinary workings plain to you.
But some day, when you are trying to run it alone, there comes
a hitch perhaps--something you do not understand, some new
development or complication. Then you are glad to turn to the
book of directions for help.
How about the book which gives directions for right living?
Preachers and teachers and parents can tell you many good things
when they are at hand; but the book can help you at all times.
Full of directions for every difficulty and sure to point the
way and lead you aright, it can be always near, ready to help in
all perplexities. (Text.)
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