Be of Good Courage by Mary E. Guilford

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 19, 1872

Be of Good Courage.

By Mary E. Guilford

What great reason have we all to be of good courage, and to trust in the Lord; for he has said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” The worldling, with a heart full of pride and hilarity, may scorn the society of the devoted Christian, whose humble piety is a continual reproach to his aimless life of sin and folly. Even those endeared to us by the ties of nature may separate themselves from us, and leave us lonely and deserted. Yet, amid all this, the faithful, trusting soul can lift the heart heavenward, and enjoy sweet communion with Jesus. He is an abiding friend—an ever-present guest. His beaming smile of love and approbation will make earth's darkest clouds withdraw, and fill the weary, careworn heart with heavenly light and peace.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God.” Rom. 8 : 28. How comprehensive the language of this text! It takes into consideration every event and circumstance of life. No matter how great our trials, or severe our afflictions, God can overrule them all for our good. We have the assurance that “He doth not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men.” He chastens us for our profit. He would purify, refine, and elevate, us that we may become partakers of his holiness. May the consolation which this knowledge affords us dispel every murmuring thought from our hearts, and enable us to raise a song of constant thanksgiving to Him “who doeth all things well.”

Let us contemplate the goodness of God, the provisions he has made for our happiness, and with fresh courage press on in the heavenly race. Patient, cheerful, submission to the will of our Maker, will lighten our cares, and brighten our pathway to the celestial city. The toils, privations, trials, and afflictions, of this mortal life will soon be past. The morn of a glorious eternity will soon dawn upon the vision of earth's weary, careworn pilgrims. Let us be faithful a little while longer, that we may be among “the ransomed of the Lord,” who “shall return and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads.” Isa 35 : 10.

With cheerful heart, and courage strong, Press on; the race will not be long, Though foes assail, and friends deride, With love and meekness stem the tide. When all seems dark—no ray of light— Still trust in God and do the right; On his strong arm, by faith rely; Rejoice and sing, salvation's nigh.

MARY E. GUILFORD.

Erie Co., Ohio.