There are seasons in life when it is right and good to renew our covenant with God. After sickness, when like Hezekiah we've been given back years we thought were lost, it's time. After deliverance from trouble, when joy buds forth anew, let's return to the foot of the cross and renew our consecration.

Especially after sin. After we've grieved the Holy Spirit or brought dishonor upon the cause of God. That's when we must look again to the blood that makes us whiter than snow and offer ourselves afresh to the Lord.

But here's what we miss: our troubles should drive us to dedication, yes—but so should our prosperity! When God gives us what can only be called crowning mercies, then surely, if he has crowned us, we ought to crown our God! Bring forth all the jewels of divine regalia stored in the jewel-closet of your heart. Let God sit upon the throne of your love, arrayed in royal apparel.

If we would learn to profit by our prosperity, we should not need so much adversity. If we would gather from a kiss all the good it might confer upon us, we should not so often smart under the rod.

Have you lately received some blessing you little expected? Has the Lord put your feet in a large room? Can you sing of mercies multiplied? Then this is the day to put your hand upon the horns of the altar and say, "Bind me here, my God! Bind me here with cords, even forever!"

We need the fulfillment of new promises from God, so let us offer renewed prayers that our old vows may not be dishonored. This morning, make with him a sure covenant—because of the pains of Jesus which we have been considering with gratitude.