bility; for He Himself through the Holy Spirit calls us to
EpIstLE TO THE CORINTHIANS
mercies through our Lord Jesus Christ; 12 to whom be the glory and majesty forever and evermore. Amen."
21. 'Take care, beloved, that His blessings, numerous as they are, do not turn to our condemnation in case we do not— through a life unworthy of Him—do with perfect accord what is good and pleasing in His sight. 2 For somewhere it is said:
The Spirit of the Lord is a lamp that searches the deep recesses of the soul. 3 Let us understand how nigh He is, and that none of the thoughts we entertain or the plans we devise are hidden from Him. 4 It is right, therefore, that we should not desert the place His will has assigned to us.
5 Rather than to God, let us give offence to silly, unreasoning men, to men conceited and arrogantly indulging in boastful speech. 6 Let us reverence the Lord Jesus Christ, whose
Blood was sacrificed for us; respect our officials, honor the presbyters; subject the young to the discipline of the fear of God; train our wives in all that is good. 7. Let these exhibit lovable and chaste manners, show forth a sincere and gentle disposition; by their silence let them manifest their courtesy of speech; without partiality let them perform their works of charity, and with a pure intention bestow them equally on all that fear God. 8 Our children must have their share of a Christian upbringing; they must learn how effective with the Lord is a humble frame of mind, what holy love can accomplish with God, how honorable and excellent is the fear of Him, and how it brings salvation to all who in this fear lead holy lives, with a conscience undefiled. 9 For a searcher is
He of thoughts and designs." His breath indwells in us, and when it pleases Him, He can take it away.
22. To all these precepts the faith in Christ gives stability; for He Himself through the Holy Spirit calls us to om