The One Cherished Sin

Often from my window on the seashore I have observed a little boat at anchor. Day after day, month after month, it is seen at the same spot. The tides ebb and flow, yet it scarcely moves. While many a gallant vessel spreads its sails, and, catching the favoring breeze, has reached the haven, this little bark moves not from its accustomed spot. True it is, that when the tide rises, it rises, and when it ebbs again, it sinks; but advances not. Why is this? It is fastened to the earth by one slender rope. There is the secret. A cord, scarcely visible, enchants it, and will not let it go. Now, stationary Christians, see here your state—the state of thousands. Sabbaths come and go, but leave them as before. Ordinances come and go; ministers come and go; means, privileges, sermons, move them not—yes, they move them—a slight elevation by a Sabbath tide, and again they sink; but no onward, heavenward movement. They are as remote as ever from the haven of rest, this Sabbath as the last, this year as the past. Some one sin enslaves, enchants the soul, and will not let it go. If it be so, make one desperate effort in the strength of God. Take the Bible as your chart, and Christ as your pilot, to steer you safely amid the dangerous rocks, and pray for the Spirit of all grace to fill your every sail, and waft you onward over the ocean of life, to the haven of everlasting bliss.--Anon