The Lord gives our souls “rest from the days of adversity” by communion with Himself, not only communion in joy, but in holiness. Circumstances are used only to break down the door and let in God. God is near to the soul when He, in the certainty of love, comes within the circumstances and is known as better than any circumstance.
The Lord never chastens without occasion for it, and yet, “Blessed is the man whom Thou chastenest, O Lord” (Psa. 94:12). There is not a more wonderful word than that! If the soul is judging itself, there will often be anxiety and sorrow, but the effects are blessed. What we exceedingly need is intimacy of soul with God, resting in quietness in Him, though all may be confusion and tumult around us. “In the multitude of my thoughts within me Thy comforts delight my soul” (Psa. 94:19).
Our portion is not only to know the riches of God’s grace, but the secret of the Lord — to have intimacy of communion with Him in His holiness. Then, however adverse the circumstances, the soul rests quietly and steadfastly in Him.
Christian Truth (adapted)