Extract of a Letter

 •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 11
Whatever loosens the children of heaven from the soil of earth should be regarded as a blessing, however painful it may be in its operation. Born from above, we tend heavenwards whenever our new-nature instincts have their free play. God is ever true to this heaven-born nature; and if He cuts and prunes round about it at times with the keen knife of trial, it is because He is concerned for our blessing-for our heavenward progress-for our deeper enjoyment in Himself. Thus I believe the very clouds that are allowed at times to roll over our spiritual horizon are among the " all things" that are working together for our eternal good, if we are thereby stirred up to more self-judgment, more weanedness from the world, more delight in God. We are thus gainers without question by our trials, and are able to say experimentally, " Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." May the Lord, dear brother, if it be His will, strengthen your body and fill your soul with peace which passeth all understanding. Isa. 32:17,1817And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever. 18And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places; (Isaiah 32:17‑18).