There is a constant tendency in earthly things to press down the affections. Duties are more apt to lead away the soul from God than open sin. Many a Christian has been ensnared by duties, whose heart would have shrunk from open sin.
But we have only one duty in all the varying circumstances of life-to serve Christ. And we should remember that if things on earth are dark, and the heart is tested in journeying through the world, all on the side of God is bright.