It is poor faith when we trust God when
friends are true,
the body is full of health, and
the business is profitable
It is true faith when
friends are gone,
the body is sick,
spirits are depressed, and
the light of our Father's countenance is hidden.
The Lord afflicts his servants to glorify himself, for He is greatly glorified in the graces of His people, which are His own handiwork. When "tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope," the Lord is honoured by these growing virtues.
The wisdom and power of God are discovered by the trials.
Present afflictions tend also to heighten future joy.
Numbers 11:11
Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant?"
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