SANCTIFIED AFFLICTIONS.
By Rebekah Smith
Oh! how oft in life's sad changes friends most cherished we must leave,
And though we may be submissive, nature claims the right to grieve,
'Tis the only balm earth gives us for the heart's deep pain and wound,
But the blessings we may gather, are alone in Jesus found. Every sanctified affliction only renders Heaven more dear;
Welcome, then, life's disappointments, welcome pain and suffering here;
If we learn the secret, wholly to the Lord to yield our will,
Feeling that our final glory is his aim and purpose still. No good thing is e'er withholden from the good and true in heart;
And if thus we stand before him, God knows best what to impart.
Are we forced to leave the places where we've loved to oft retire,
'Tis a voice from Heaven, saying, look to places purer, higher. Think not rest will be our portion, while the foe is in the field,
But gird on the armor bravely, and no foothold ever yield,
For the Lord will be our leader, and our battles he will fight,
While we move in his own order, and go forward in his light. Then whate'er our sacrifices let them all be promptly made,
Christ to save lost men from ruin, has a precious ransom paid.
To advance his cause, if need be, home and kindred let us leave,
To beseech the wandering sinner God's rich mercy to receive. Naught our own should we consider, all we have is only lent,
In this blessed gospel labor, all our substance should be spent.
Thus we gain the real riches, by investing all in this,
An inheritance in Heaven, endless life in realms of bliss.