Prayer and Promises

THE PROMISE

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.

— 1 Peter 4:12, 13, NKJV 

THE TESTIMONY

By trial the Lord proves the strength of his children... In the furnace of affliction he purifies us from all dross. He sends us trials, not to cause us needless pain, but to lead us to look to him, to strengthen our endurance, to teach us that if we do not rebel, but put our trust in him, we shall see of his salvation. 

By God’s mighty cleaver of truth we have been taken from the quarry of the world and brought into the workshop of the Lord to be prepared for a place in his temple. In this work the hammer and chisel must act their part, and then comes the polishing. Rebel not under this process of grace. You may be a rough stone, on which much work must be done before you are prepared for the place God designs you to fill. You need not be surprised if with the hammer and the chisel of trial God cuts away your defects of character. He alone can accomplish this work. And be assured that he will not strike one useless blow. His every blow is struck in love, for your eternal good and happiness. He knows your defects, and works to restore, not to destroy. 

Remember that in every time of trouble Jesus is near you, seeking to impress his image upon you... He is always ready to clasp the hand stretched out for aid. 

In every trial we have strong consolation. Is not our Saviour touched with the feeling of our infirmities?... Let us take our sorrows to the Lord in prayer, saying, “My burdens are too heavy for me. Wilt thou bear them?” Christ will say, “I will take them. With everlasting kindness will I have mercy upon thee.” Nothing wounds the soul like the sharp doubts of unbelief. When trial comes, as it will, do not worry or complain. Silence in the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. “Then are they glad because they be quiet.” Remember that underneath you are the everlasting arms. “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him.” He is guiding you into a harbor of gracious experience, and he bids you. “Be still, and know that I am God.” 

— Review and Herald, June 20, 1907 

THE RESPONSE

Look to the Lord to strengthen your endurance, learn to put your trust in Him. 

Stretch out your hand to Jesus for aid in every time of trouble, He is always ready to clasp it. 

Take your sorrows to the Lord in prayer saying, “My burdens are too heavy for me. Will You bear them?” Christ will take them and with everlasting kindness have mercy on you.

When trial comes, do not worry or complain. “Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him.”