Oh, let us beg for grace to lie as clay
in the hands of Infinite Wisdom
(Joseph Milner, 1780)
Resignation to the divine will is one
of the last and highest attainments
of the Christian life.
It is what is ultimately to be aimed
at, as essential to comfort here--
and happiness hereafter.
The Scriptures, daily meditated
on, will supply us with instruction.
When we have genuine love to GOD,
we shall be led to such an acquiescence
in HIS wisdom and goodness--
that we shall choose HIS will to take
place, rather than ours. And the thought
of how soon all things shall be set right in
eternity, and that HE will make all things
work together for our good in this life--
will reconcile the mind to anything
that GOD pleases.
You will not mistake me, I hope, as
if I suppose all true Christians have
learned all this lesson completely.
Far from it!
These things are learned but in
measure, and not without much
conflict and opposition from sinful
nature all along, and much imperfection.
And though it is not easy to confine
the SPIRIT'S operations by rules--
yet this seems the general order
of Christian virtues:
1. repentance,
2. faith,
3. love,
4. sweet resignation to GOD'S will.
In CHRIST HIMSELF, this
resignation was perfect,
will be done!" (Luke 22:42),
and as far as we can trust in HIM for grace--
so far we may receive grace out of HIS fullness.
Oh, let us beg for grace to lie as clay
in the hands of Infinite Wisdom,
who knows how . . .
to humble our pride,
to bend our proud wills, and
to conform us to the likeness
of HIS beloved SON.
~ ~ ~ ~
GraceGems has published Anne Dutton's comforting short letter,
"A sweet soft bosom to rest our weary heads".
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