My Prayer
Improvement Era, vol. 13, no. 1, November 1909, p. 13
Carroll, Elsie C.
THE CHEAT APOSTASY. L3
thority, particularly those who had the greatest number of churches^under their inspection, and who presided over the most opulent assemblies. They appropriated to their evangelical function the splendid ensigns of temporal majesty. A throne surrounded with ministers, exalted above his equals the servant of the meek and humble Jesus; and sumptuous garments dazzled the eyes and the minds of the multitude into an ignor- ant veneration of their arrogated authority. The example of the bishops was ambitiously imitated by the presbyters, who, neglecting the sacred duties of their station, abandoned themselves to the indolence and delica- cy of an effeminate and luxurious life. The deacons, beholding the presbyters deserting thus their functions, boldly usurped their rights and privileges, and the effects of a corrupt ambition were spread through every rank of the sacred order." (Mosheim's Eccl. Hist.,Cent III, Part II, chap. II: 2, 4.
My Prayer.
I do not ask for fame, Nor do I ask for power. I do not ask that wealth Shall ever be my dower. The morrow needs no care, No more does yesterday; 'Tis for the present hour,
Dear Lord, for which I pray.
For eyes to see the wrong; For will to choose the right; For voice to sing hope's song To make a sad face bright. Just help my lips to speak But words of love and cheer. Just help me, Father, help My conscience to shine clear. Just show me how to walk In thine own perfect way, In thought and act and talk, Just for today, just for today. Elsie C. Carroll Orderville, Utah.