The true recipe for miserable existence!

(James Alexander, "Consolation" 1852)

"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 religion 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 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 fall, when there is such a temper to receive them! "Shall we receive good at the hands of the Lord, and shall we not receive evil?" Such dispositions tend to stillness of soul; and even amidst chastisement, there is internal quiet.

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

"It is the LORD. Let Him do what seems good to Him." 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