+II. The work of the Spirit.+--1. Bestowing conviction that the Scriptures are the Word of God. 2. Submission to God and a desire to obey Him. 3. The testimony of the Spirit--a Divine manner of reasoning framed in the mind--that we are God's children. 4. Peace of conscience, joy, and affiance in God. +III. The desires of the heart directed towards God.+--1. Our cries are to be directed to God with reverence. 2. With submission to His will. 3. With importunity and constancy.--_Perkins._ _The Character and Privileges of the Children of God._ +I. The distinguishing characteristic of the children of God.+--1. _It is a spirit of filial confidence as opposed to servile fear._ No unpardoned sinner has a sufficient ground of confidence in God. Till assured that God loves him, he knows not how God may treat him at any particular time. But we cannot believe that God loves us and at the same time doubt His mercy. He that heartily reposes on God's favour cannot dread His vengeance. 2. _This filial spirit is one of holy love as opposed to the bondage of sin._--The love of God is a powerful element well calculated to change the whole of our inner man. It gives a new bias to our wayward affections and a healthful vigour to every good desire. 3. _The filial spirit is one of ready obedience as opposed to the gloomy spirit of servitude._--The service of a slave is unwilling, extorted, unsatisfactory; the obedience of a child is ready, loving, energetic. Love is self-denying, soul-absorbing, devoted. +II. Some of the distinguishing privileges of the children of God.+--1. _The child of God has a part in the Father's love and care._ 2. _Has a filial resemblance to the heavenly Father._ 3. _Children of God have the privileges of family communion and fellowship._ 4. _Have a share in the family provisions._ 5. _Have a title to the future inheritance.--Robert M. Macbrair._