| This is why God often sends some trial or circumstance, to make us take hold of Himself and deepen our sense of dependence. In the Old Testament we read of certain ones, “They poured out a prayer when Thy chastening was upon them” (Isaiah 26:16). In times of trouble we pray feelingly, and we never pray so fervently as when we pray feelingly. When God puts His children in the school of affliction, He deals with them tenderly, because He does not leave them without a promise. “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able” (1 Corinthians 10:13). “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16). |