William Romain The Life, Walk, and Triumph of Faith

happy as now. This cross is sanctified indeed: for it has removed what
hindered my communion with you, and has brought me to seek your
presence, and to enjoy your supports and your comforts. I was foolish
enough to wish it might pass from me; but this was mine infirmity.
Pardon it, my sweet Jesus, and accept mine sincere thanks for your late
mercies. Never in my life did I find the virtue of your sacrifice in the
peace of my conscience, nor had I such intimate communion with you
in your finished salvation, as I have had under this cross. It tried me,
indeed; but the trial was to your glory, and to my profit. I am now more
satisfied than ever that your salvation is infinitely perfect, and that I
have my share in it: I have it indeed now; for I am a partaker of the
things which accompany salvation. I am making use of them—I find
their reality—I enjoy their sweetness—blessing, and thanks, and praise
without ceasing, be unto you, my adorable God and Savior.
Is it not, O my soul, your fervent prayer, that you may live in holy
friendship with Jesus? Why then do you fear his cross, which is his
appointed way and means of improving your intimacy with him, and
likeness to him? O study the discovery of his love in the Scriptures; and
take particular notice of the promises which he has made to his
suffering brethren. Read, mark them, mix faith with them, that they
may be fulfilled in your experience. Remember, you can not suffer but
by his will, to which he expects submission: he sends the cross to teach
you this lesson. It cannot hurt you if you do not quarrel with it: but if
your will be resigned to his, herein you will have fellowship with him;
and you will have reason constantly to be praying to him—"Not my will.
Lord, but your be done."
Consider, for the improvement of this fellowship, that your Lord
himself was exercised with the cross. He has gone before you, bearing
it. He has taken the curse and wrath out of it, and has sanctified it to all
327 of 553