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January 28 Gifts Available to All
In Any Situation
“I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I
know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where
and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to
abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which
strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:11–13).
If Paul, troubled on every side, perplexed, persecuted, could call
his trials light afflictions, of what has the Christian of today to complain?
How trifling are our trials in comparison with Paul's many
afflictions! They are not worthy to be compared with the eternal
weight of glory awaiting the overcomer. They are God's workmen,
ordained for the perfection of character. However great the deprivation
and suffering of the Christian, however dark and inscrutable may
seem the way of providence, he is to rejoice in the Lord, knowing that
all is working for his good. 63
Whatever may be your circumstances, however dark and mysterious
may be the ways of Providence, though the path may be
through the deep waters, and trials and bereavements may afflict
again and again, the assurance still comes, “All things work together
for good to them that love God” (Romans 8:28). “I know whom I have
believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have
committed unto him against that day” (2 Timothy 1:12). 64
No one is qualified for great and important work unless he has
been faithful in the performance of little duties. It is by degrees that
the character is formed and that the soul is trained to put forth effort
and energy proportionate to the task which is to be accomplished. If
we are creatures of circumstance, we shall surely fail of perfecting
Christian characters. You must master circumstances, and not allow
circumstances to master you. You can find energy at the cross of
Christ. You can now grow by degrees, and conquer difficulties, and
overcome force of habit. You need to be stimulated by the life-giving
force of Jesus. 65
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