Where it does not exist, there is no piety, and just as truly there is no tranquility of soul.
What a hideous sight to see a human creature in full rebellion against GOD'S providence...
Repining at His allotments, fighting against His dispensations, and cursing His judgments!
The true recipe for miserable existence is this: Quarrel with Providence.
When GOD means to make us happy, He teaches us submission...a resignation of everything into His hands, and an acknowledgment that whatever He does is wisest and best.
O how sweetly even afflictions fall, when there is such a temper to receive them!
Shall we receive good at the hands of the LORD, and shall we not receive evil?
Such dispositions tend to stillness of soul; and even amidst chastisement there is internal quiet.
It is a very great attainment to lie passive in GOD'S hands, and know no will but His!"
~Alexander Smellie~
1Sa 3:18 And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It is the LORD: let him do what seemeth him good.
Job 1:21 And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
Act 21:14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
~James Alexander~