The true recipe for miserable existence!

(James Alexander, "Consolation" 1852)

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

"Father, if You are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from Me.
 Nevertheless, I want Your will to be done, not Mine!" Luke 22:42

The first law of true piety is submission to God's will. Where it does not exist, there is no piety; and just as truly, there is no tranquility of soul.

What a hideous sight to see a human creature . . .
  in full rebellion against God's providence,
  repining at His allotments,
  fighting against His dispensations,
  and cursing His judgments!

The true recipe for miserable existence is this: Quarrel with God's providence! When God means to make us happy, He teaches us submission--a resignation of everything into His hands, and an acknowledgment that whatever He does is wisest and best.

O how sweetly even afflictions come, when there is such a heart to receive them! "Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?" Such a disposition tends to stillness of soul; and even amidst chastisement, there is a quietness of heart.

"It is a very great attainment, to lie passive in God's hands and know no will but His!" (Alexander Smellie)

"He is the Lord; let Him do what is good in His eyes." 1 Samuel 3:18

"Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord!" Job 1:21

"May the Lord's will be done!" Acts 21:14