We also rejoice in our afflictions. By James Michael. We also rejoice
in our afflictions because we know that affliction produces
endurance. Endurance produces proven character. And proven character produces
hope. Romans 5 verses 3 and 4. Man
is born to trouble as the sparks fly upward. Sometimes God kindly
sends afflictions to chastise His people for sin and curb their
carnal affections. Yet, at other times, He sends
afflictions to exercise and improve their graces. Whatever my affliction
is, the wisdom of him who sends it should make me embrace and
bear it without repining. Afflictions do not spring out
of the dust, nor come at random. Some of God's favorite ones have,
for wise ends, had the severest afflictions. Affliction deadens
the pleasures of sense and gives the soul a relish for spiritual
things. It divorces the soul from the
creature and draws it near to God. Affliction renders the creature
tasteless and the world barren. It dispels the intoxicating juice
of carnal pleasures and sensual delights. I should welcome whatever
afflictions loosen me from this world and bring me nearer to
God. This Puritan devotional has been
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