Snares, gins, and traps!

(James Meikle, "The Traveler" 1730-1799)

I am exposed to temptations from every quarter.
As my finite wisdom cannot prevent my being
tempted, so my feeble power cannot resist being
overtaken by them. I have Your grace to adore,
that I am not overcome with every temptation
which assaults me.

Human nature is like a pile of dry wood shavings;
and temptation is like a spark of fire cast into it.
It must be divine power that hinders all from going
into a blaze! O kind compassion! O tender mercy!
O glorious grace! I am nothing; hence I shall think
humbly of myself--but highly of Your grace.

What a thorny path is human life! How is it strewed
with snares, gins, and traps--for head and feet, for
heart and hands. If I lift up my head in pride, I fall
into the condemnation of the devil. If I am not watchful
in my goings, I am cast into a net by my own feet, and
walk into a snare. Vanity is ready to fill my heart, and
wickedness my hands. Satan has his deceptive and
powerful weapons against each of my bodily senses.
I am beset with snares on every side!

Two lessens I am taught, which, through grace,
I never shall forget:
1. To be distrustful of myself.
2. To be confident in God, and strong in His grace.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present
 help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of
 grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace
 to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16