Rather it
is by giving the soul a sweet, constant, and unshaken assurance
through faith: First, that it is freely and fully accepted in
Christ. Second, that whatever suffering comes, it is measured,
weighed, and permitted by love infinitely tender, and guided by
wisdom that cannot err. Third, that however difficult it may be
to explain suffering now, it is nevertheless _one_ of the
"all things" which "work together for good to them that love
God," and that in a "little while" it will not only be swallowed
up in the ineffable blessedness and glory, but that in some way
it is actually helping to work out "a far more exceeding and
eternal weight of glory" (2 Cor. iv. 7). Fourth, that though the
furnace has been heated seven times hotter than was wont, yet
"the Form... like unto the Son of God" is walking with us in the
fire; though triumphant enemies have thrust us into the lions'
den, yet the angel of the Lord arrived first and locked the
lions' jaws; though foes may have formed against us sharp
weapons, yet they cannot prosper, for His shield and buckler
defend us; though all things be lost, yet "Thou remainest"; and
though "my flesh and my heart may fail, God is the strength of my
heart and my portion for ever."
Not all God's dear children thus triumph over their difficulties
and sufferings, but this is God's standard, and they may attain
unto it, if, by faith, they will open their hearts and "be filled
with the Spirit.
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