MAN is born to trouble, and those that are born again, are born to additional troubles; but these trying times are the Lord's opportunities. He will be a very present help in trouble, and near to them that feel after him, and will be found of them. It is in the furnace that he has chosen us, and in the furnace the fervour and energy of prayer appears; and in the furnace God promises to hear, to answer, and to acknowledge the objects of his choice: "I will say, It is my people; and they shall say, The Lord is my God." I know this is a sore trial to thee, but faith is gold, and will never waste, corrupt, nor consume in the fiery trial; it is God's cash, and God's coin, and he will preserve it, and enrich us by it, and make it more strong, more bright, and more precious, by ad these exercises; and God will own it, honour it, and bless the fruits of it, when it has overcome and prevailed.
These things promote appetite, and make every bitter thing sweet; they collect our thoughts, they excite watchfulness, they keep us looking to God; and every favour or token from him is observed, admired, and acknowledged with the most profound respect and gratitude. In these times I always give myself unto prayer, and attend upon all occasions to this very thing; and God has never failed me yet, nor do I believe he ever will. And I know that all these things have worked for my good; and they ever will terminate in God's honour, and in our welfare. Let me know haw Mr. W. is. I shall continue my prayers, and conclude,
Dear Naomi.
Your's in Christ
W. H., S. S.
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