The Trial of our Faith
In this time of trial, we need to be encouraged and comforted by
each other. The temptations of Satan are greater now than ever before,
for he knows that his time is short, and that very soon every case will
be decided, either for Life, or for Death. It is no time to sink down
beneath discouragement, and trial now; but we must bear up under all
our afflictions, and trust wholly in the mighty God of Jacob.
The Lord has shown me that his grace is sufficient for all our trials;
and although they are greater than ever before, yet if we trust wholly in
God, we can overcome every temptation, and through his grace come
off victorious.
If we overcome our trials, and get victory over the temptations
of Satan, then we endure the trial of our faith, which is much more
precious than gold, and are stronger, and better prepared to meet the
next. But if we sink down, and give way to the temptations of Satan,
we shall grow weaker and get no reward for the trial, and shall not be
so well prepared for the next. In this way we shall grow weaker, and
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weaker, until we are led captive by Satan, at his will. We must have
on the whole armor of God, and be ready at any moment for a conflict
with the powers of darkness. When temptations and trials rush in upon
us, let us go to God, and agonize with him in prayer. He will not turn
us away empty; but will give us grace and strength to overcome, and
to break the power of the enemy. Oh, that all could see these things in
their true light, and endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus. Then
would Israel move forward strong in God, and in the power of his
might.
God has shown me that he gave his people a bitter cup to drink to
purify and cleanse them. It is a bitter draught, and they can make it
still more bitter by murmuring, complaining, and repining. But those
who receive it thus, must have another draught, for the first does not
have its designed effect upon the heart. And if the second does not
effect the work, then they must have another, and another, until it does
have its designed effect, or they will be left filthy and impure in heart.
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