"We are ready to praise when all shines fair; but when life is overcast, when all things seem to be against us, when we are in fear for some cherished happiness, or in the depths of sorrow, or in the solitude of life which has no visible support, or in a season of sickness, and with the shadow of death approaching,- then to praise God; then to say, This fear, loneliness, affliction, pain, and trembling awe are as sure tokens of love, as life, health, joy, and the gifts of home: 'The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away'; on either side it is He, and all is love alike; 'blessed be the name of the Lord,'- this is true sacrifice of praise. What can come amiss to a soul which is so in accord with God? What can make so much as one jarring tone in all its harmony? In all the changes of this fitful life, it ever dwells in praise."
(H.E. Manning, Daily Strength for Daily Needs p.130)
So very true and again, timely for me. Thank you for posting it, Nay.
ReplyDeleteYour welcome Jana. :) Glad this was a blessing to you. It was for me too.
DeleteI love this quote Nay! When we can praise Him for the "negative" as "sure tokens" of His love and generosity, we are in the securest place we will ever be in! There is nothing sure in this world other than pain. Even the richest most well off person will experience pain. One of the loveliest treasures of Christianity is that His cost is worth it. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteVery true what you said about pain Toni. But not only is Christ the only one who makes pain worth it, but is the only one too, who is able to somehow give a grace and joy through it. Really thankful for that. Thanks for commenting. :)
DeleteI liked this thought. We are too quick to assume that 'negative' gifts aren't gifts at all.
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