“Here is the mercy, that His ways are above ours as the heavens are higher than the earth. Though we are foolish and unbelieving, He remains faithful: He will not deny Himself.
I recommend to you especially that promise of God, which is so comprehensive that it takes in all our concernments,—I mean, that all things shall work together for good. (Romans 8:28)
How hard is it to believe, that not only those things which are grievous to the flesh, but even those things which draw forth our corruptions, and discover to us what is in our hearts, and fill us with guilt and shame, should in the issue work for our good!
Yet the Lord has said it.
All your pains and trials, all that befalls you in your own person, or that affects you upon the account of others, shall in the end prove to your advantage.
And your peace does not depend upon any change of circumstances which may appear desirable, but in having your will bowed to the Lord’s will, and made willing to submit all to His disposal and management.
Pray for this, and wait patiently for Him, and He will do it.
Be not surprised to find yourself poor, helpless, and vile; all whom He favours and teaches will find themselves so. The more grace increases, the more we shall see to abase us in our own eyes.
And this will make the Saviour and His salvation more precious to us. He takes His own wise methods to humble you, and to prove you.
And I am sure He will do you good in the end.”
–John Newton, The Works of John Newton, Volume 2 (Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth, 1988), 2: 148-149.
