All These Things

 

Evening Devotion

DECEMBER 7

 

…all these things are against me.

 Genesis 42:36

 
What things?
   These losses, rosses, bereavements, persecutions, sorrows, and sicknesses.—   
            Against you!
 
Never.
 
They are not against you unless they lead you unto sin
  —bind you faster to this world
  — alienate your mind from God
  —and prevent you being useful in your day and generation.
 
They cannot be against you if they wean you from earth
  —lead you to God
    —endear the Saviour
      —render the Bible more valuable
        —and make you long for home.
 
You forgot that they come according to the arrangements of a gracious providence, and that you heavenly Father sent them for your good.
 
Leave off complaining, for it springs from ignorance of God’s Word,
  or forgetfulness of your many mercies and sins;
  or forgetfulness of your many mercies and sins;
  or form unbelief and a bad temper; and
it reflects upon the love, care, and kindness of your God.
 
These things are painful, trying, and perplexing;
  but they are intended to do you good, and while you are complaining,
    they are working together under divine direction for your present
      and everlasting welfare.
 
Beloved, how apt we are to mistake the design of our trials.
 

Let saint their gloomy fears restrain;

No reason have they to complain,

Whatever ills befall;

No troubles from the dust can rise,

For God is holy, good, and wise,

And overrules them all.

 
James Smith