PATIENCE AND ITS RESULT.
By A. S. Hutchins
Much is said in the word of God of that amiable quality of the mind, patience. The apostle testifies, “Tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.” Patience and hope, then, are acquired by steps of sacrifice and self-denial, trial, affliction, and tribulation. But right here is where many have failed, and many more will fail. Under trial and tribulation, they worry themselves out of the hand of the Lord, and lose the benefits of the fiery furnace, through which they should have gained patience, been purified, and secured that hope which “maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” The same rays of sunlight which strengthen and promote the growth of vegetation, wither and destroy the up-rooted plant. David very strikingly teaches the blessings attending waiting patiently for the Lord. He says:— “I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.” Ps. 40:1. Mark the order. 1. He patiently waited for the Lord. 2. The Lord inclined unto him. 3. He heard his cry. And, 4. “He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God.” Here are some of the unspeakable benefits which David derived from patience. Now, 5, mark the result of such a course on those who behold it. “Many shall see it, and fear, and trust in the Lord.” “Here is the patience of the saints.” “Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts; for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” “Behold, we count them happy which endure.” James 5:8, 11. A. S. HUTCHINS.