Wednesday, March 18, 2009

In quietness and confidence

I read this entry this morning. It was a testimony to me of how God has been working in my heart. I believe that much of my confidence in Him is because of the prayers of His people on our behalf. We can either rest in God or we can fight God. But only the first will give us confidence and trust in God.

It's also worthy to note that Spurgeon struggled with depression his whole life and at times, was overwhelmed by it. This is not written by someone who has never experienced trials.

p. 132 - Beside Still Waters (Spurgeon)

Quietness and Confidence (Is. 30:15)

"In quietness and confidence shall be your strength." This is a truth concerning all the trials and troubles of this life . Some of you are passing through business troubles, for there are many tremors in the business world, and perhaps they are causing you to shake and tremble. [I thought this was funny considering that Spurgeon lived about 200 years ago!] If so, do not be readily carried away by these secondary matters. Do not let them depress or excite you. Hold loosely to all worldly things, but grip firmly the unseen God. Fussing, worrying, and hurrying will do no good. Be calm and quiet; all will be well if you are the Lord's child.
Perhaps your trial is personal sickness. If so, nothing can be better than quietness and confidence. Worrying will not make you well, though it might keep you ill. You will be sick just as long as God appoints, but if anything can help to heal it is quietness and confidence of heart.
Have you lost a friend? Is there a great sorrow? Have you some loved one lying in a new grave? My friend you cannot bring the dear one back, and you should not wish to do so. It is wise to submit to the inevitable. It is gracious to bow to the will of your ever-gracious God. You cannot do anything that will be as helpful to your sorrowing spirit as to exercise quietness and confidence; it will indeed be your strength.
Do you have a sorrow fully equal to bereavement? Have you a loved one who daily suffers? Is that the living cross you have to carry? Do not worry. Submit to the Lord's will. Ask Him for grace to acquiesce in it, and learn to wait on the Lord.
God's tested child, whatever your condition, remember this promise, "In quietness and confidence shall be your strength."

2 comments:

Cindy Marsch said...

Isn't it wonderful when we read something we know the Lord has prepared particularly for us, for this day, for this situation? Thank you for sharing this comfort and reminding us to pray!

Ruth said...

Wow, this is amazing considering the times we are in now, the truth is ageless. Praise god for His love and words of comofort. Fear not, I am with you..
Come to me all who are weary and heavy burdened and I will give you rest. Rest and quiet.