Christians can rejoice even in the deepest distress. Although trouble may surround them, they still sing. Like many birds they sing best in their cages! The waves may roll over them, but their souls soon rise to the surface and see the light of God's countenance.
In times of trouble, the presence of the Son of God in the fiery furnace with him fills his heart with joy. He is sick and suffering, but Jesus visits him and makes his bed for him. He is dying, but Jesus puts His arms around him and cries, Fear not, beloved, to die is to be blessed, the waters of death have their fountainhead in Heaven. They are not bitter, they are as sweet as nectar, for they flow from the throne of God.
As the departing saint wades through the stream and the billows gather around him, the same voice sounds in his ears, "Fear not, I am with you! Be not dismayed, I am your God." (Isaiah 41:10)
As he nears the borders of the infinite unknown, Jesus says, "Fear not, it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom!" (Luke 12:32)
Thus strengthened and consoled, the believer is not afraid to die. No, he is even willing to depart, for since he has seen Jesus as the morning star, he longs to gaze upon Him as the sun in its strength. Truly the presence of Jesus is all the Heaven we desire!
[Charles H. Spurgeon]
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Philippians 1:23 … For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Psalm 33:21 … For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.❤
