The true recipe for miserable existence is this:

(James W. Alexander, "Consolation" 1852)

"Affliction does not come forth from the dust - neither does trouble spring out of the ground." Job 5:6

"When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other." Ecclesiastes 7:14

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 accept good from God - and not trouble?" Job 2:10. Such a disposition tends to tranquility of soul; and even amidst chastisement, there is internal quiet.

"The Lord gave - and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." Job 1:21

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

"In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

"We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

 

Today's Puritan Audio Devotional:

But a flea-bite!
Thomas Brooks, uplifting
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