Sept. 11

Charles Spurgeon · Faith's Checkbook

SUFFERERS MAKE STRONG BELIEVERS

   "It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth" Lam. 3:27

   This is as good as a promise. It has been good, it is good, and it will
   be good for me to bear the yoke.

   Early in life I had to feel the weight of conviction, and ever since it
   has proved a soul-enriching burden. Should I have loved the gospel so
   well had I not learned by deep experience the need of salvation by
   grace? Jabez was more honorable than his brethren because his mother
   bare him with sorrow, and those who suffer much in being born unto God
   make strong believers in sovereign grace.

   The yoke of censure is an irksome one, but it prepares a man for future
   honor. He is not fit to be a leader who has not run the gauntlet of
   contempt. Praise intoxicates if it be not preceded by abuse. Men who
   rise to eminence without a struggle usually fall into dishonor.

   The yoke of affliction, disappointment, and excessive labor is by no
   means to be sought for; but when the Lord lays it on us in our youth it
   frequently develops a character which glorifies God and blesses the
   Church.

   Come, my soul, bow thy neck; take up thy cross. It was good for thee
   when young, it will not harm thee now. For Jesus' sake, shoulder it
   cheerfully.