JUNE 21ST, 1932
JUNE 21ST, 1932
MY DEAR —, — I feel very much indeed for all of you in this present time of trial and exercise, and I am praying for you all, and particularly for you in all the special demands that your dear father’s illness will bring upon you at home and in the business. One’s comfort is at such times that God’s hand is over all, and it is a “mighty hand”, whether to restrain that which might be adverse to our spiritual prosperity, or to support us in that weakness of which we are made so conscious.
I was convinced, from what you said, that your father’s case was a somewhat serious one, and I was not at all surprised to learn that he had had to give in altogether. I trust the complete rest may strengthen his heart, so that he may be able to resume some of his wonted work again. And I trust also that being taken aside from all the activities that have occupied him so largely, and necessarily, will be made a great blessing to his soul. The Lord allures, and brings into the wilderness, that He may speak to the heart, and He always does so consolingly and tenderly. He so perfectly understands all our frailty, and considers our trouble. It is very precious to know that He is not content merely to take notice of any trial, but He considers it, as weighing well every part and detail of it, and entering into the effect which it is having on our spirits. He knows our soul in adversity — taking note of every holy and subduing influence which it is promoting, and watching, too, with love’s perfect solicitude that no pressure shall be permitted that is too heavy for faith to bear.
I am afraid that you will be at present unable to get away much, though as I write this I feel rebuked that I should say, “I am afraid”, for, if wisdom and love are combined to order our way, why should we fear either for ourselves or for those we love? You will have grace and strength, and “the burden and heat of the day” will bring out what you can do through Him who gives you power....
Yours very affectionately in Him,
June 21st, 1932.