The single eye is receiving everything in the light of God. To view it so transmits as God views it. It is an apprehension of the word and mind and counsels of God judging all that is presented. The soul thus receives nothing but as judged of by God, and the whole existence is in the light. It gives also " a quick understanding in the fear of the Lord," as if you were enlightened by a bright and sudden shining. If thine eye be evil, receiving a judgment that is morally the reverse of the word and counsel and judgment of God, thy whole body is full of darkness. See therefore that the light that is in thee, and that you boast of, be not darkness.
Seeking first the kingdom of God-subject to Christ-practical obedience as immediate to Himself. To do so, creates such an interest in Christ as a charge on Him that He would not let you want for His own glory's sake. It is not that you should not eat and drink and clothe yourself; but belong to Him, consult Him, serve Him as His in a world that is not His. The world being considered as a thing never to be kept for itself, and parted with as that to which you are in no way bound; given away as future treasure; God supplying all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Seeking things for themselves is to do as the Gentiles do. It was the fault of the prodigal son to ask for his inheritance before the time.
Why cannot they pray? Prayer is a spiritual exercise-they are immersed in sense. Prayer lifts us above this world-they mind earthly things. With their eyes rivettedupon earth, how should they look up to heaven. May we by improvement of the grace already given, prevail upon God to pour upon us more and more abundantly the Spirit of grace and supplication, in sense of our need; for, be assured, if we would ever go to heaven ourselves, our hearts and desires must be there before us.