WE have already seen that fasting, in its broad sense, means self-denial, and in the ordinary sense, abstinence. In this latter sense it is used in the collect for the day. Now abstinence, we all know, means "going without something," and the question to be settled by each one of us is, "What shall we do without?" The Church, always discreet and liberal in her requirements, lays down no rules in this matter, but leaves it to the judgment and conscience of each individual of her children. We are to be, not without law, but a law unto ourselves. One may abstain in matters of food, another of some favorite occupation or amusement, such, for instance, as light reading or fancy work, or a favorite game. Another will take time from his business or pleasure for devotional reading, or for some work of charity. We are to be a law unto ourselves, but let our rule "be" a law. Do not let the matter be left to chance, or the impulse of the moment. "Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind," said St. Paul, speaking of a somewhat similar matter (Rom. xiv. 5.). He is writing to the Christians of Rome, many of whom had been Jews, and still found their consciences burdened at times by the requirements of ceremonial law. "One," he says, "believeth that he may eat all things; another, who is weak, eateth only herbs...One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike." But however that might be, every one was enjoined to be "fully persuaded in his own mind," and not to act against that persuasion—that is, against the leading of his own conscience. Having, then, laid down a rule—having decided on that measure of abstinence which we deem best for ourselves—let us adhere to that standard, however we may be tempted to depart from it. For instance, if you decide to give some particular part of the day to devotional reading or study—a very excellent practice—do not let every little matter, especially of your own convenience, divert you from your object. If you decide to abstain from light reading, hold fast to your resolution in the face of the most fascinating and bepraised novel. Unless you do thus adhere to them, your rules will be burdens and temptations instead of helps. There is another and a very important point to be considered in this matter of amusements. In the very chapter that we have been quoting, St. Paul says: "If meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no meat while the world stands." The church man or woman who is seen at the opera or theatre during Lent must not be surprised if he hears his religious profession lightly spoken of by worldly associates. The Sunday-school teacher or Girls' Friendly Associate who so indulges must not complain of the pupil or member who follows her example.