Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

March 8– Morning

 by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“We must pass through much tribulation in order to enter the kingdom of God.” 

—Acts 14:22

 

There is no doubt that God’s people go through times of great trial. Before the beginning of the world, it was God’s design that his people should be tried and tested. They were chosen in the furnace of affliction, and they were never meant to enjoy worldly peace and earthly joy. In fact, when the Lord drew up the list of their privileges, he included chastening and discipline among the things they would inevitably experience. As surely as he made the stars and measures their orbits, God has allotted trials to his people. He has ordained their season and their place, their intensity, and the effect they will have upon us. Good men must never expect to escape troubles; none of their predecessors ever have.

Take notice of the patience of Job! Remember Abraham! He had his trials, and by his faith under them he became the “Father of the faithful.” Note well the biographies of all the patriarchs, prophets, apostles, and martyrs, and you will discover none of them were spared the fire of affliction. It is as if the cross of trouble is engraved on every vessel of mercy; it is the royal mark whereby the King’s vessels of honor are distinguished from the common earthenware.

Although tribulation is the path of God’s children, they do, however, have the comfort of knowing that their Master has traveled this road before them. They have his presence and sympathy to cheer them, his grace to support them, and his example to teach them how to endure. And when they reach the kingdom, it will more than make up for any tribulation through which they have passed to enter it. [M&E]