These lines were written to a dear friend undergoing trial, and her plea is for loyalty to Christ, and all to be done to the glory of God.
“The Lord has your interests and mine as much at heart as any of His redeemed ones—and think of His power and love for His children.
“We are not promised a path strewn with flowers and perpetual prosperity, but we are promised perfect peace, if our hearts are fixed on God. It may not be all we expect, but if it is His way, then it must be well. The fruitful life is one that has known much sorrow.
“The text on the calendar for today is,
“‘Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for He is faithful that promised.’ (Heb. 10:33).
“I would love automobiles, fine clothes, servants, and to be able to walk into a store and have the clerks say, ‘This is Mrs. so and so—she is very wealthy;’ as I have heard it said of others.
“I would like to have loads of money to give away—why there is not enough in the whole world to satisfy, when I think of everything. But when we dwell on higher things and eternal life that you and I have, and think of what it means to those who are drifting down to eternity—dreadful thought! do not wealth, fame, and temporary alleviation appear like an infinitesimal atom? On the other hand, what are we going to do in return for what has been done for us?
“I feel that God has some great things for you, because He has tried you so hard! He knows how much we can stand, and what we need for refining.
“‘Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him.’ (James 1:12).
“Do everything, I pray you, to God’s glory and stand faithful. All the world would think you a fool for giving up worldly glory and pleasure, for they do not see or understand. Remember Christ in the wilderness and what Satan offered Him—the whole world!
“You are acknowledging Christ, and that is what Satan is after, because you have stepped aside to be a good soldier of Jesus Christ, and remember it is only for a little while. Some people get their testing time early, and some later in life, but know that you will get no more than you can stand.
“May God guide you at this time and keep you unswerving in your testimony for Christ, and faithful in your walk.
“With warmest love to you in our soon coming Lord.”