AFFLICTIONS AND DELIVERANCE.
By C. F. Ladd
THE excuse that many offer for not embracing Christianity is that it brings too much persecution and affliction. While it is true that the followers of the meek and lowly Jesus have as much trouble, and oftentimes apparently more than other people, it is also true that there is divine help for them in the time of trouble. Every Christian should have the following words burnt deep into his heart; "Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the Lord delivereth him out of them all." Nowhere does the Word of God predict the Christian's walk through the road of time to be one of ease, but it constantly warns the traveler of dangers, temptations, tribulations, and afflictions. "In the world ye shall have tribulation" is the warning spoken to each one who sets out upon the strait and narrow way, and then to offset any discouragement or gloom, follows the blessed words: "But be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."5Tho the cold, cruel world has naught to offer in the way of satisfaction and peace, we who are in the world, but not of it, have the promise, "In Me ye have peace." It is indeed blessed to know that the Master has overcome for us, and that tho the storms of sin may beat fiercely about us, there is peace and calm for those who are in Him, resting sweetly and peacefully midst storm and strife. Tho the afflictions are many, He has promised to deliver from them all, and He is able to fulfil His promise, and He will.