My dear wife has been quite ill

(Letters of John Newton)

"And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered!" Matthew 10:30

Dear friend,
My dear wife has been quite ill. Sickness is a bitter pill to swallow. Yet the Lord is good; He knows what we need, and when we need it. We must and shall have it — whether it is sweet, bitter, or sour — for He will withhold no good thing from those who fear and love Him.

He upholds and enlightens the planets and stars. He weighs the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance. At the same time, He is providing for the lions and ravens, and supporting all the ants and worms that creep upon the earth!

And with equal accuracy — He adjusts all that concerns us! Worms as we are — He is attentive to everything that relates to our peace and welfare, as though we, each of us singly — were the sole objects of His providential care! Yes, His eye and His heart are attentively fixed upon you and worthless me! Well may we say, "Who is a God like unto You!"