My brother, remember that this earth is
not heaven. Christ has declared: "In the world ye shall
have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake:
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you,
and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My
sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward
in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before
you." John 16:33; Matthew 5:10-12.
Jesus has not left you to be amazed at
the trials and difficulties you meet. He has told you all about
them, and He has told you also not to be cast down and oppressed
when trials come. Look to Jesus, your Redeemer, and be cheerful
and rejoice. The trials hardest to bear are those that come from
our brethren, our own familiar friends; but even these trials
may be borne with patience. Jesus is not lying in Joseph's new
tomb. He has risen and has ascended to heaven, there to intercede
in our behalf. We have a Saviour who so loved us that He died
for us, that through Him we might have hope and strength and
courage, and a place with Him upon His throne. He is able and
willing to help you whenever you call upon Him.
If you try to carry your burdens alone
you will be crushed under them. You have heavy responsibilities.
Jesus knows about them, and He will not leave you alone if you
do not leave Him. He is honored when you commit the keeping of
your soul to Him as unto a faithful Creator. He bids you hope
in His mercy, believing that He does not desire you to carry
these weighty responsibilities in your own strength. Only believe,
and you will see the salvation of God.
Do you feel your insufficiency for the
position of trust that you occupy? Thank God for this. The more
you feel your weakness, the more you will be inclined to seek
for a helper. "Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to
you." James 4:8. Jesus wants you to be happy, to be cheerful.
He wants you to do your best with the ability that God has given
you and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those
who will be your helpers in carrying burdens.
Let not the unkind speeches of men hurt you. Did not men say unkind things about Jesus? You err, and may sometimes give occasion for unkind remarks; but Jesus never did. He was pure, spotless, undefiled. Do not expect a better portion in this life than the Prince of glory had. When your enemies see that they can make you feel hurt, they will rejoice, and Satan will rejoice. Look to Jesus, and work with an eye single to His glory. Keep your heart in the love of God.