To Mrs. H., July 14, 1853.
My beloved Amelia,
Again the Lord is proving to me the blessedness of taking up the cross--and
also how much I shrink from it. I seek deliverance from the cross—but
find my Lord has put deliverance in it; and if I could writhe myself
away from it, I would miss the blessing! But when by His enablings it is
fairly taken up, there is indeed a new song put into my mouth, even praise
to His name. The soul at such times seems to triumph in Christ, something
like Paul when reconciled to the thorn in the flesh. Indeed, I feel it good
to be laid low, and kept low at the feet of my precious Lord, though He is
bringing it about in ways most unexpected and undesired. I am much longing
for humility, and He is laying open to me my pride by the painfulness I
feel--in being made nothing. Truly His ways and His thoughts are
astonishing--far above mine! His doings towards me are very wise and
awesome--and worthy of a God who gives no account of His matters—but works
all things after the counsel of His own will, and all things for good to
those who love Him, and are the called according to His purpose.
May the Lord preserve all your goings, and hold you in
His paths, that your footsteps slip not. To Him I commend you; may He
fulfill in you all the good pleasure of His goodness, and the work of faith
with power. Farewell in our Beloved.
Ever yours with much affection,
Ruth