+III. The spiritual apprehension of these blessings is the gift of God.+--This is needed because of their Divine nature. As we cannot properly see what the sun has called into life and beauty without his light, so these blessings are truly seen only in the light of the Sun of Righteousness. Through the Redeemer the Spirit is given. He gives the Spirit to enlighten both the object and the eye, to "testify," to "show," to "glorify," to reveal, "that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God." Thus, these blessings are seen, not distantly and dimly, but in their nearness and unveiled glory, whilst He creates in the heart corresponding sympathy, desire, and assurance. Nothing can compensate for this gift--no mere intelligence, no reflection upon past experience, no mere help from others. +IV. This gift is bestowed in answer to prayer.+--This particular bestowment comes under the promise of the Spirit to believing prayer. This is a gift. Gifts are asked for, not made ours in any other way. This gift is awaiting and challenging prayer, importunate prayer. That an ever-deepening desire for these spiritual gifts may be ours, let us often ask--What truths are given to me, which, if the eyes of my understanding were enlightened, would not exert the most positive influence over me, lifting me into the clearer light of God's relations, thus empowering me to live above the standard of natural strength, and so to fulfil His present designs? Think of the alternative.--_J. Holmes._ Vers. 15, 16. _True Religion self-revealing_-- +I. In its moral results.+--"Faith and love" (ver. 15). +II. Is evident to others.+--"I heard of your faith" (ver. 15). +III. Is the occasion of constant thanksgiving.+--"Cease not to give thanks for you" (ver. 16). +IV. Calls forth a spirit of prayer.+--"Making mention of you in my prayers" (ver. 16).