We shall be sure to find something
to annoy us!
(John MacDuff, "The Christian's Pathway" 1858)
"But godliness with contentment
is great gain." 1 Timothy 6:6
The believer is frequently
exhorted to cultivate
contentment, and there
are many considerations
by which the duty may
be enforced.
One thing is very evident--
that there is no condition
in the present world, which
is free from trouble!
Let us pitch our tent
wherever we may--
we shall be sure to find
something to annoy us!
And if there is no situation
without some inconvenience--
had we not better make up
our minds to be satisfied
with that condition in
which we are now placed?
We are too much in the habit
of judging by outward
appearances. But things
are often very different
in reality--
to what they appear to be.
If we judge according
to appearance, we shall be led
to regard the most prosperous--
as the happiest individuals.
But we are assured by
universal experience--
that to be great is one thing,
and that to be truly happy
is altogether another thing!
Under the glittering robes
of the proudest nobilities--
there are hearts pierced
with anguish, and
wrung with grief!
In splendid palaces--
there are many broken hearts
to be found. To sit upon thrones
may seem to be something
very fascinating; but,
"uneasy lies the head--
which wears a crown!"
This is a truth which
receives fresh confirmation,
from every passing year.
Let us not then, regard
those who occupy the high
places of the earth,
with feelings of envy.
Instead of envying them--
it befits us rather to pity
them and pray for them!
Reader, learn to distinguish
between things that differ;
and be well assured that things
as they appear outwardly,
and as they really are--
do often differ, and that
very substantially!
Such knowledge will tend,
under God's blessing--
to make you more contented
with your present lot,
notwithstanding its trials
and privations.
It is not unusual--
to be exposed to things which
are grievous and hard to be borne.
This is not some strange thing
which is happening to us alone.
Let us lay aside, therefore,
all murmurings and
complainings--
and ever remember that
God's arrangements
are the wisest
and the best!
through JESUS CHRIST for ever.
Amen." Romans 16:27
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