Fortitude in Affliction
215
Jesus Knows Our Griefs and Pains
June 26, 1892—I am glad when the daylight comes, for the nights
are long and wearisome. But when I cannot sleep, gratitude fills my
heart as I think that One who never slumbers is watching over me
for good. What a wonderful thought it is that Jesus knows all about
the pains and griefs we bear. In all our afflictions He was afflicted.
Some among our friends know nothing of human woe or physical
pain. They are never sick, and therefore they cannot enter fully into
the feelings of those who are sick. But Jesus is touched with the
feeling of our infirmity. He is the great medical missionary. He has
taken humanity upon Himself, and has placed Himself at the head
of a new dispensation, in order that He may reconcile justice and
compassion.—
Manuscript 19, 1892
.
“Make Me a Healthy, Fruit-bearing Branch”
June 29, 1892—My prayer on awaking is, Jesus, keep Thy child
today. Take me under Thy guardianship. Make me a healthy, fruit-
[238]
bearing branch of the living Vine. “Without me,” Christ says, “ye can
do nothing” (
John 15:5
). In and through Christ we can do all things.
He who was the adored of angels, who had listened to the mu-
sic of the heavenly choir, was ever touched, while upon this earth,
with the sorrows of children, ever ready to listen to the story of their
childish woe. He often dried their tears, cheering them with the ten-
der sympathy of His words, which seemed to hush their sorrows and
make them forget their grief. The emblem in the form of a dove
that hovered over Jesus at His baptism represents His gentleness of
character.—
Manuscript 19, 1892
.
“Let No Unkind Words Be Spoken by Me”
June 30, 1892—Another night of great weariness is nearly passed.
Although I continue to suffer much pain, I know that I am not for-
saken by my Saviour. My prayer is, Help me, Jesus, that I may not
dishonor Thee with my lips. Let no unkind words be spoken by me.—
Manuscript 19, 1892
.