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Trials and Blessings

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 24, 1911

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 88, No. 34.

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Trials and Blessings

By J. A. Sweeney

J. A. SWENEY
God permits trials to assail his people, that by constancy and obedience, they may be spiritually enriched, and their example be a source of strength to others. The very tests that try our faith most sorely, and make it seem that God has forsaken us, are to lead us closer to Christ.
God has always tried his people in the furnace of affliction. Jesus watches the tests. It is by severe, testing trials that God disciplines his servants. When he brings them into trial, he has a purpose to accomplish for their good. From every temptation and every trial he will bring them forth with firmer faith and a richer experience. Trials well borne will develop steadfastness of character and precious spiritual graces. When trials arise that seem unexplainable, we should not allow our peace to be spoiled. However unjustly we may be treated, we should never let passion arise.
The Lord permits trials in order that we may be cleansed from earthliness, from selfishness, from harsh, unchrist-like traits of character; and if patient under the test, we shall come forth reflecting the divine character. The danger is that in temptation and trial we shall become discouraged, and fail to persevere in prayer. Trials and obstacles are the Lord’s chosen methods of discipline and his appointed conditions of success. The trials hardest to bear are those that come from our brethren, our own families, our friends; but even these may be borne with patience.
The Father’s presence encircled Christ, and nothing befell him but that which infinite love permitted for the blessing of the world. Here was his source of comfort, and it is for us. He who is imbued with the spirit of Christ abides in Christ. Whatever comes to him is permitted by the Saviour, who surrounds him with his presence. Nothing can touch him except by the Lord’s permission. All our sufferings and sorrows, all our temptations and trials, all our sadness and grief, all our persecutions and privations, in short, all things work together for our good.
Albuquerque, N. M.