Faith never expects to learn deep lessons without deep difficulties, therefore she is not surprised by strange and dark providences. How many are apt to say, "My temptation is peculiar;" but we should remember that it is the peculiar aggravations which make a trial effectual, and should not forget the word, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man" (1 Cor. 10:3).

Our faith is greatly strengthened when we are brought to see that no arm but God's can help, no wisdom but His can guide, and no love but His can satisfy.

God has settled in heaven certain trials of our faith which will as surely befall us as the crown of glory will be given us at Christ's appearing. God's purposes of grace are a golden chain, not a link must be missing.

When a trial comes upon me, let me look upon it as sent for a peculiar blessing. If I receive it thus, I shall not consider "how heavy it is," nor ask, '"When will it be removed?" but, "How much advantage shall I gain through it? How shall I turn it to the best account?"

"Trials make the promise sweet,
Trials give new life to prayer;
Trials bring me to His feet,
Lay me low, and keep me there."

FRAGMENT