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Joy Through Suffering with Christ, November 3
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to
try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but
rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that,
when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding
joy.
1 Peter 4:12, 13
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We do not always consider that the sanctification we so earnestly desire
and for which we pray so earnestly is brought about through the truth and,
by the providence of God, in a manner we least expect. When we look
for joy, behold there is sorrow. When we expect peace, we frequently
have distrust and doubt, because we find ourselves plunged into trials we
cannot avoid. In these trials we are having the answers to our prayers. In
order for us to be purified, the fire of affliction must kindle upon us, and
our will must be brought into conformity to the will of God.... God sees it
best to put us under a course of discipline which is essential for us before
we are fit subjects for the blessing we crave.
We should not become discouraged and give way to doubt, and think
that our prayers are not noticed. We should rely more securely upon Christ
and leave our case with God to answer our prayers in His own way. God
has not promised to bestow His blessings through the channels we have
marked out.... The plans of God are always the best, although we may not
always discern them. Perfection of Christian character can be obtained
only through labor, conflict, and self-denial. We do not always count
upon this, and do not consider the painful and often protracted process
of purifying necessary for us in order that we may be conformed to the
image of Christ. God frequently answers our prayers in a way we least
expect. He brings us into positions which are the most trying, to reveal
what is in our hearts. To further the development of Christian graces He
will place us in circumstances which will demand increased exertion on
our part to keep our faith in lively exercise.
Let us bear in mind how inestimably precious are the gifts of God—
the graces of His Spirit—and we shall not shrink from the trying, testing
process, be it ever so painful or humiliating to us.
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