(James Smith, "Comfort for Christians!")
the man YOU teach from YOUR law!"
Psalm 94:12
The chastenings of the LORD
often appear severe--
but they are merciful. They . . .
correct our follies,
subdue our proud wills, and
soften and humble our hard
hearts before HIM.
When GOD chastens--
HE teaches. The lessons
are found in HIS Word--
but we never learn many of them--
until we go through the furnace
of affliction!
We often learn more truth
from one short, sharp affliction--
than we do from many books
and sermons!
In affliction, GOD teaches us . . .
our own emptiness and vanity,
our dependence on HIMSELF, and the
insufficiency of all our earthly things!
In affliction, GOD . . .
endears the LORD JESUS and
HIS great salvation to us; shows
us the value of the provision of grace;
makes our consciences tender and honest;
qualifies us for usefulness on earth; and fits
us for the enjoyment of HIMSELF in Heaven.
We need chastening.
If we do not receive it--
we become . . .
carnal and worldly,
light and trifling,
unsavory and useless
in both the world and the church!
It is a blessed thing to be chastened
of the LORD, especially when the rod
teaches us such important and
invaluable lessons!
Chastened Christians are generally
the most useful and attractive Christians.
and the ONE who appointed it!"
Micah 6:9.
Chastened Christian! Seek grace . . .
to bear the rod,
to bless the rod, and
to kiss the hand that holds the rod!
so do not despise the chastening of
the Almighty!" Job 5:17
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
GraceGems have published William Steven's most comforting short article,
"Songs in the Night Season!"
No comments:
Post a Comment