Sunday, November 30, 2008

Thankful For Sanctifying Crosses (And Dead Saints)

Oh! sanctified adversity carries the richest pearl in its mouth; it makes sin odious to us, and the return of the Saviour's presence doubly sweet! By it we are made meet for the Master's use. Shall we not kiss the rod which scares away our sins, and whips our corruptions to death? God separates thee by afflictions from thy idols, that they may not be as fuel to inflame thy corruptions, or as thieves to steal thy heart from Him. If thou hast been taught of God to distrust thine own heart, to be vile in thine own eyes, and to take no idolatrous delight in creature comforts, thou hast received ten thousand better answer to thy prayers than if thou hadst been lifted up by joyful frames, or hadst obtained thy fond wish in every prayer. The lowly graces of the Spirit thrive best under crosses.

-Daniel Rowland, as quoted in Daniel Rowland and the Great Evangelical Awakening in Wales by Eifion Evans, p.150

4 comments:

Mel said...

This is so beautiful, Chris! And this is why I love blogging. I probably never would have come across this profound thought. Isn't it a wonderful gift to be free from fear? To know that whatever happens, painful or not, when we are in His hand, there's nothing to be afraid of. Wow!

I recently posted on my blog a post that was designed to be a peek into my world. You are one of the five people it was written for. I hope you'll have the time and desire to check it out at some point. Many blessings to you, my friend!

In Christ,
Mel

Mel said...

Hey, Chris, it's me again. Is it okay with you if I print off a few of your older blog posts to read to myself and share with others?

pilgriminconflict said...

Of course! Please feel free anytime. It all belongs to our Lord.

I peeked at your blog a couple of days ago and still have the page loaded on my laptop. I'm looking forward to reading more about your family. I just haven't been able to find the time yet (that's partly why I haven't posted in a while)! The pictures are beautiful! Thank you for the post.

Grace and peace to you my sister,
Chris

Donna said...

Hi Chris,
I happened upon your blog reading one of your responses to Mel's writing.

I hope that I'm not intruding.

I have to tell you that this quote hit me square in the soul. It helps me to make sense of what I have been walking through these last few months. It's exactly what I needed to hear today. (even though it was written in November :))

Thankyou for finding this jewel and sharing it with us..
Donna