"Set thine house in order." This direction is twofold. 1. _With
regard to your worldly affairs._ The king was directed to give
command concerning his house. His wishes respecting the succession to
the throne. Every business-man should keep his affairs in such order
that if he were suddenly called away there would be no difficulty.
Every one possessed of property should, in view of the uncertainty of
life, make his will. Many leave this duty to the last. If it has been
so left and sickness comes, it should be one of the first things
done. It will not hasten death. It will save expense. It will secure
the rights of all. It will prevent disputes. It will relieve the
mind. It will leave it free to attend to the soul. 2. _With regard to
your eternal interests._ Think of the soul's future. Are you prepared
for the great journey? Are you ready with your accounts? Recall your
obligations to the Almighty. Consider how they have been discharged.
Overcome your reluctance to a thorough conviction of sin. Let there
be humility, contrition, repentance. Seek mercy. There is a Saviour.
Believe in Him. Yield your heart. If already a Christian, survey the
position. If near death, all this is obviously necessary. If not near
death, or death not apparently near, it is necessary on the ground of
your liability to death. It will come some time. The only safety is
to close with Jesus now.--_J. Rawlinson._