TRIBULATION WORKETH PATIENCE.
By National Presbyterian
THE influence of trouble in the formation of character depends upon the attitude of the heart, upon the temper with which it is borne. When the apostle says, "Tribulation worketh patience," he is speaking of the renewed heart, and he assumes that the subject is receiving the trials to which he is subject in a submissive and obedient spirit. He is telling us what should be, not giving us a uniform rule of operations in the moral world. To one who is animated by a rebellious or unsubmissive spirit, the effect of trials is likely to be the reverse of that ascribed to them by the apostle. Tribulation is likely to work impatience and rebellion. It hardens the heart and renders it more desperate in its impenitence and opposition to the character and will of God. When it fails to soften the heart and to exert a subduing influence upon a violent and ungovernable temper, it confirms the character in its natural inclination to a course of evil. It is of the first importance, then, to learn to exercise self-control. If we would overcome our tendencies to sinful indulgences, and confirm our character in a course of virtue and piety, we must learn to exercise a patient and submissive spirit.—National Presbyterian.