When reading a book the other evening, I came across the words from a hymn that were quoted in one of the chapters. This was not the first time that I had read these words, yet they still caused me to pause and consider them. They touched my heart and gave encouragement that the trials and affliction that the Lord allows into our lives can indeed work to draw one closer to Him and help one to grow in His ways. I hope that this verse blesses your heart as much as it did mine!
God in Israel sows the seeds
Of affliction, pain, and toil:
These spring up, and choke the weeds
Which would else o'erspread the soil:
Trials make the promise sweet;
Trials give new life to prayer;
Trials bring me to his feet,
Lay me low, and keep me there.
Words by: William Cowper
-Posted by Sarah
A wonderful reminder and thank you for sharing. Sometimes I need reminders :)
ReplyDeleteThat is such a good reminder!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Mrs. Hester, and thank you for commenting! I think we all need reminders from time to time. :)
ReplyDeleteIt is, Desiree!
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful quote, Sarah, and actually brings tears to my eyes.
ReplyDeleteWe are experiencing the "seeds of affliction, pain, and toil" ourselves right now. Just when we think we cannot handle one more difficulty, it arises seemingly out of nowhere. It is so easy to get lost and focused on the affliction and forget that the Lord has a plan in all that He allows into our lives.
I am constantly reminded of 2 Corinthians 4:7-11: "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed--always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body."
Again, thanks for sharing this quote. I'm going to write it down so I can remember it!
Thank you so much, Joy, for your comment! It was wonderful hearing from you again. :) And we were glad to hear that the quote was such a blessing to you!
ReplyDeleteAs we read your comment, though, our hearts ached for you. We are praying for you and your family as you go through this season with the “seeds of affliction, pain, and toil”. Yes, it is difficult to keep our focus on the Lord and His plan for our lives during times such as these . . . what a comfort, though, to know that whatever we are going through, He is right there beside us.
The verses you shared apply so well and are a wonderful and encouraging reminder. Thank you for sharing them as they were a blessing to us!
Good quote.
ReplyDelete