The True Recipe for Miserable
Existence By James Alexander Father, if you are willing, please
take this cup of suffering away from me. Nevertheless, I want
your will to be done, not mine. Luke chapter 22 verse 42 The first law of true piety is
submission to God's will. Where it does not exist, there
is no piety, and just as truly, there is no tranquility of soul. What a hideous sight to see a
human creature in full rebellion against God's providence, repining
at his allotments, fighting against his dispensations, and cursing
his judgments. The true recipe for miserable
existence is this, quarrel with God's providence. When God means
to make us happy, He teaches us submission, a resignation
of everything into His hands, and an acknowledgement that whatever
He does is wisest and best. Oh, how sweetly even afflictions
come when there is such a heart to receive them! Shall we indeed
accept good from God and not accept adversity? Such a disposition
tends to stillness of soul, and even amidst chastisement there
is a quietness of heart. It is a very great attainment
to lie passive in God's hands and know no will but His. Alexander
Smiley He is the Lord, let him do what is good in his eyes.
Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I shall return
there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has
taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.
May the Lord's will be done.