The first lesson in the school of tribulation, is that affliction is the visitation of God. Nothing in any man's life comes to him by "chance." All things, both small and great, are under the control of God. He foresees, and limits, and disposes. What is sometimes called "good fortune" comes not by accident; neither does trouble spring out of the ground.
Am I healthy and prosperous? It is the will of God. Am I suffering in body or in mind? It is the Lord, let Him do what seems good unto Him. This is the only answer that can be given to the weak and sorely tempted ones, whom one trial after another afflict with increasing sorrows, "So it pleases God! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right!"
To the believer, Providence is not merely general and universal, but particular and personal. "Even the very hairs of your head are all numbered!" (Matthew 10:30.) The believer looks to his own particular afflictions, as the dispensations of Divine Providence. To myself, affliction comes as the special visitation of God; and, looking above second causes, the word of trust from my soul should go forth, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening."
Affliction must not therefore be received as a burden, laid on by a blind and cruel fate it is given by my wise and loving Father! Nor must I regard it as a "misfortune" as an unmixed evil, which comes by chance, and is to be received with unconcern. Affliction does not come forth from the dust, it is from God. It is sent in mercy and wisdom yes, and in power. His visitation is rich in lessons of comfort, of strength and of peace for all things work together for good to His obedient children. Yes, ALL things!
[Walter Purton]
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Job 1:21 ... And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.
Job 5:6 ... Although affliction cometh not forth of the dust, neither doth trouble spring out of the ground;
Job 5:18 ... For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.❤
