Those habits which seem too weak to be felt soon become too strong to be broken! They entwine themselves around the soul, and the coil proves fatal. Once commence the downward course, and it is uncertain if you will ever return! The lives of many in history illustrate the "downward steps from innocence to guilt."
A painter once wanted a picture of innocence and painted a child at prayer. The little suppliant was kneeling beside his mother, the palms of his uplifted hands were reverently pressed together, his rosy cheek spoke of health, and his mild blue eye was upturned with the expression of devotion and peace. The portrait of young Rupert was much prized by the painter, and was hung up on his study wall, and called 'Innocence.'
Years passed away, and the painter became an old man; still the picture hung there. He had often thought of painting a contrast, the picture of guilt but he had not found the appropriate subject. At last he effected his purpose by paying a visit to a neighboring jail.
On the damp floor of his cell lay a wretched culprit, named Randall, heavily shackled. Wasted was his body, and hollow his eye vice was visible in his face. The painter succeeded in copying his features admirably, and the portraits of young Rupert and old Randall were hung up side by side, as 'Innocence' and 'Guilt.'
But who were young Rupert and old Randall? Alas! the two were one! Old Randall was young Rupert, led astray by his companions, and ending his life in this damp dungeon of the jail.
Beware of trifling with sinful habits. Satan lays his fatal snares for the unwary, adapts the bait and the soul is taken captive by the devil! Never open the door to a little vice, lest a great one should enter also!
Hide God's Word in your heart, that you may not sin against Him. It will be a bulwark to shield you, and a guide to direct you.
[Author Unknown]
Psalm 119:117 ... Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.❤
