J.A. Matteson
When it arrives and the form it takes you do not know. But it's inevitable presence in a fallen world is certain and preparation for it softens its blow. "In the day of my trouble I shall call upon You, for You will answer me" (Ps. 86:7). It is good in the storm to call upon the name of the LORD. It is better to call upon Him in times of peace so that when the tempest arrives unexpectedly your heart will not be unnecessarily distressed. Measure your response to evil inflicted upon you, consider its impact, then reflect upon Your level of abiding while seas are calm. The closer the branch abides in the vine when winds are calm the easier it bends when they blow with force. In Christ pilgrims can do all things, apart from Him they can do nothing.
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