Afflictions

(Joseph Williams)

"It was good for me to be afflicted!" Psalm 119:71

I find afflictions to be good for me. I have always
found them so. Afflictions are happy means in the
hands of the Holy Spirit to subdue . . .
  my corruptions,
  my pride,
  my evil passions,
  my inordinate love to the creature.

Afflictions . . .
  soften my hard heart,
  bring me to my knees,
  increase faith,
  increase love,
  increase humility,
  increase self-denial.

Afflictions make me poor in spirit,
and nothing in my own eyes.

Welcome the cross!

Welcome deep adversity!

Welcome stripping Providences!

"Before I was afflicted I went astray, but
 now I obey Your word." Psalm 119:67