Daniel T. Bourdeau - The Eternal Gospel Church

than light because their deeds were evil. For every one
that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the
light, lest his deeds should be reproved." John iii, 19,
20. p. 97, Para. 2, [HOLINESS].
Self-examination should be attended to deliberately,
frequently, systematically, impartially and thoroughly. The
importance of this work should induce us to engage in it
cheerfully and without compulsion. We should attend to it
frequently. 1. Because our knowledge of self may be effaced
from our minds by other and more recent impressions made on
the mind, and as a consequence, we may lose a realizing
sense of our condition. 2. As we should advance in the
knowledge of self, the oftener we learn a lesson of selfknowledge,
the more rapid will be our progress. It would be
proper at least to take a glance at ourselves at different
intervals in the day, as we are called upon to perform our
several duties, and to be systematic in calling ourselves
to a strict account for all our conduct at the close of
each day. It would also be beneficial to have a list of
simple and pointed questions to address to ourselves on the
occasion. System will help us here as well as elsewhere.
p. 97, Para. 3, [HOLINESS].
Says Dr. Watts, "It was a sacred rule among the
Pythagoreans, that they should every evening, thrice run
over the actions and affairs of the day, and examine what
their conduct had been, what they had done, or what they
had neglected; and they assured their pupils that by this
method they would make a noble progress in the path of
virtue." And shall we be behind these heathen philosophers
in this important exercise? Dr. Watts also furnishes the
following lines, which we would do well to remember: p.
98, Para. 1, [HOLINESS].
"Nor let soft slumber close your eyes, Before you've
recollected thrice The train of actions thro' the day.
Where have my feet chose out the way? What have I learned
where'er I've been, From all I've heard, from all I've
seen? What know I more, that's worth the knowing? What have
I done that's worth the doing? What have I sought that I
should shun? What duty have I left undone, Or into what new
follies run? These self-inquiries are the road That leads
to virtue and to God." p. 98, Para. 2, [HOLINESS].
This work should be attended to thoroughly and
impartially. In this respect it should be with us as with a