Morning, May 13

Christian! If you are in a night of trial, think of the morrow; cheer up your heart with the thought of the coming of your Lord. Be patient, for "Lo! He comes with clouds!" Be patient! The Gardener waits until He reaps His harvest. Be patient; for you know who has said, "Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give to every man according as his work shall be."

If you are ever so wretched now, remember "A few more rolling suns, at most—will land you on fair Canaan's coast." Your head may be crowned with thorny troubles now—but it shall wear a starry crown before long. Your hand may be filled with cares—it shall sweep the strings of the harp of heaven soon. Your garments may be soiled with dust now—they shall be snow-white by-and-by. Wait a little longer.

Ah! how despicable our troubles and trials will seem—when we look back upon them! Looking at them here in the prospect, they seem immense; but when we get to heaven we shall then "With transporting joys recount—the labors of our feet." Our trials will then seem light and momentary afflictions. Let us go on boldly; if the night is ever so dark—the morning comes; which is more than they can say—who are shut up in the darkness of hell. Do you know what it is thus to live on the future—to live on expectation—to antedate heaven? Happy believer, to have so sure, so comforting a hope. It may be all dark now—but it will soon be light. It may be all trial now—but it will soon be all happiness. What does it matter, though "weeping may endure for a night"—when "joy comes in the morning?"

Courtesy of Grace Gems! Used by permission.