Christian Theology - Media Sabda Org

It is no certain proof of the displeasure of God, that a whole people, or
an individual, may be found in a state of great oppression and distress;
nor are affluence and prosperity any certain signs of his approbation. God
certainly loved the Israelites better than he did the Egyptians; yet the
former were in the deepest adversity, while the latter were in the height
of prosperity.
Though religion is frequently persecuted, and religious people suffer
at first, where they are not fully known; yet a truly religious and
benevolent character will in general be prized wherever it is well known.
The envy of men is a proof of the excellence of that which they envy.
Reader, be thankful to God, who, in pity to thy weakness, has called
thee to believe and enjoy, and not to suffer for his sake. It is not for us to
covet seasons of martyrdom; we find it difficult to be faithful even in
ordinary trials; yet, as offences may come, and times of sore trial and
proof may occur, we should be prepared for them; and we should know
that nothing less than Christ in us, the hope of glory, will enable us to
stand in the cloudy and dark day. Let us, therefore, put on the whole
armour of God; and, fighting under the Captain of our salvation, expect
the speedy destruction of every inward foe; and triumph in the assurance
that death, the last enemy, will, in his destructions, shortly be brought to
a perpetual end. Hallelujah! The Lord God Omnipotent reigneth. Amen
and Amen.
Eminent communications of the divine favour prepare for, and entitle
to, great services and great conflicts.
Jan. 19th, 1830.—My purpose is to bear the evils and calamities of life
with less pain of spirit; if I suffer wrong, to leave it to God to right me;
to murmur against no dispensation of his providence; to bear ingratitude
and unkindness, as things totally beyond my control, and consequently
things on account of which I should not distress myself; and, though
friends and confidants should fail, to depend more on my everlasting