November 15 Echoes of Eternity
I know, O Lord, that Thy judgments are right, and that Thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.
Psalm 119:75
I, the Lord, try the hearts of those I love. The furnace of affliction burns away the dross of self-love, the overgrowth of worldly cares. Though it seems hard, even cruel, it is love in action. Few understand this, and many of My children allow themselves to become confused and bewildered when the afflictions come. The heart must be tried, because it is fickle and untrustworthy. Your affections are not pure, but are mixed with personal desires that have nothing to do with My
will for you. So with these “severe mercies,” I trim away and purge away—with your cooperation and assent. Nothing about these trials is automatic, for I do not force your will. Be aware, My child, of the quality of mercy in all your afflictions—emotional and physical. They are meant to free you of guilt, fear, and false goals.