God had but one Son without sin, but He had no son without suffering. His only begotten Son was a Man of Sorrows; and the Holy Spirit assures us, “If ye be without chastening, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards and not sons” (Heb. 12:8).
Let all Christians prepare for affliction, on account of having an interest in God through Christ; on account of having sins pardoned and purged; on account of having peace with God; on account of having hearts crucified to the world; and then when troubles come, let us bear them as Christians, neither murmur nor repine, but patiently receive everything from His hand, knowing He intends all for our blessing. Not desponding nor fainting, but remembering that our troubles are no more, but infinitely less, than we have deserved. “He will not lay upon man more than right.” (Job 34:23).
God perfectly understands our need, and knows our strength: “If need be, ye are in heaviness.” (1 Peter 1:6). “He is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able.” (1 Cor. 10:13). It is the wise, just, and gracious God, that mixes our cup for us.
Many earthly parents do not correct their children as they should, being ignorant of their nature and disposition; and therefore their correction does them no good.
Many physicians mistake the constitutions of their patients, and therefore do them more harm than good; but God knows our need and strength, and suits all His remedies accordingly.
In our affliction, let us search our hearts, and try our ways; let us fly to God by prayer, and resign ourselves to Him, and trust in Him, casting our cares and burdens on Him. (Psa. 55:22; 1 Peter 5:7).