A GREAT FIGHT OF AFFLICTIONS

 
OCTOBER 18.
 

A great fight of afflictions.
Hebrews 10:32

 
PRIMITIVE believers were exposed to fiery trials,
and the most unmerciful persecutions.
 
In them see what true faith will bear, and
  what grace will enable us to overcome.
 
They had not only patience, but joy.
 
They took joyfully the spoiling of their goods.
 
They felt it an honour to be persecuted for the sake of Jesus.
 
They rejoiced to suffer for him,
  who had suffered so much for them.
 
They had the inward witness that Christ was theirs, and
  that they had in heaven a better and an enduring substance.
 
Nothing will enable us to suffer for Christ,
  like the assurance of an interest in Christ.
 
We may not have to battle with afflictions,
  just in the same way as the first Christians did;
  but we too must suffer.
 
Through much tribulation, inward or outward,
  we must enter into the kingdom of God.
 
Let us therefore prepare for it.
 
Let us get our evidences brightened,
  our sword sharpened,
  our courage increased,
  our confidence strengthened,
  that so we may withstand in the evil day, and
   having done all stand.
 
Jesus, our Captain, will lead us into the field, and
  if we look to him, trust in him, and copy his example,
  he will bring us off more than conquerors.

 

Trials may press of every sort,

They may be sore, they must be short;

We now believe, but soon shall view

The greatest glories God can show.

 
James Smith 1849