Perhaps, troubled soul, the Lord is allowing this to develop your graces. Some of your graces would never be revealed if it were not for trials. Do you not know that your faith never appears as strong in the sunshine of ease as it does in the storms of winter? Love is often like a glow-worm—it shines most brightly in surrounding darkness. Hope is like a star—it cannot be seen in the daylight of prosperity, but only in the night of adversity.
Afflictions are often the dark background against which God sets the jewels of His children’s graces, so that they may shine more clearly. Not long ago, you were on your knees praying, “Lord, I fear I have no faith; let me know that I truly have it.” Was that not, perhaps without realizing it, a prayer for trials? For how can you know you have faith unless it is tested?
Be assured of this: God often sends trials so that our graces may be revealed and we may be certain they are real. And it is not only revelation—sanctified trials actually produce real growth in grace.
God frequently removes comforts and privileges in order to make us stronger Christians. He trains His soldiers not in tents of ease and luxury, but by sending them into hard service and long marches. He leads them through rivers, over mountains, and along difficult roads, carrying heavy burdens of sorrow.
Well then, Christian, may this not explain the troubles you are facing? Is the Lord not drawing out your graces and causing them to grow? Is this not why He seems to be contending with you?
Trials make the promise sweet;
Trials give new life to prayer;
Trials bring me to His feet,
Lay me low, and keep me there.
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