That we should mount up spiritually with eagle’s wings is God’s desire. (Isa.
40:31). When the young eagle grows weary the mother flies beneath and bears
it upon her wings. (Deut. 32:11). So is the care of the Lord
for His people. (Ex. 19:4). "Underneath are the everlasting arms.” The Lord never
makes a breach or gap in our affections by removing someone or something
dear to our hearts except for the purpose of strengthening the link already
formed between our souls and Himself. If we can learn just a little
bit more of His love then it will be worth all the sorrow
which has ever fallen to the lot of man or woman to experience,
because there is nothing in this world of change and decay to be
compared with His love. It is as enduring as Himself, "Changeless throughout the
changing years." That there is great variation in human experience is a matter
of common-place observation. Some are passing smoothly through life, others are constantly involved
in difficulty and trial. But it is a great comfort to realize that
whom the Lord loves He chastens …..

FRAGMENT:Then, HOLD FAST! When it is no longer a question if it
be the truth, but only of its consequences. Hold fast:though those who
have held it with you, or before you, give it up; though it
separate you from all else whomsoever; though it be worse dishonored by the
evil of those who profess it; though it seem utterly useless to hope
of any good from it:in the face of the world, in the
face of the devil, in the face of the saints, -"hold fast that
which thou hast, that no man take thy crown!"     F. W. G. (1888)