Sept. 21

Charles Spurgeon · Faith's Checkbook

LET TRIALS BLESS

   "Knowing that tribulation worketh patience" Rom. 5:3

   This is a promise in essence if not in form. We have need of patience,
   and here we see the way of getting it. It is only by enduring that we
   learn to endure, even as by swimming men learn to swim. You could not
   learn that art on dry land, nor learn patience without trouble. Is it
   not worth while to suffer tribulation for the sake of gaining that
   beautiful equanimity of mind which quietly acquiesces in all the will
   of God?

   Yet our text sets forth a singular fact, which is not according to
   nature, but is supernatural. Tribulation in and of itself worketh
   petulance, unbelief, and rebellion. It is only by the sacred alchemy of
   grace that it is made to work in us patience. We do not thresh the
   wheat to lay the dust: yet the flail of tribulation does this upon
   God's floor. We do not toss a man about in order to give him rest, and
   yet so the Lord dealeth with His children. Truly this is not the manner
   of man, but greatly redounds to the glory of our all-wise God.

   Oh, for grace to let my trials bless me! Why should I wish to stay
   their gracious operation? Lord, I ask thee to remove my affliction, but
   I beseech thee ten times more to remove my impatience. Precious Lord
   Jesus, with thy cross engrave the image of thy patience on my heart.