June 19

“Strengthening the hearts of the disciples by encouraging them to continue in the faith, and by telling them, ’It is necessary to pass through many troubles on our way into the kingdom of God.’” — Acts 14:22

The best things of life–come out of wounding. Wheat is crushed–before it becomes bread. Incense must be cast upon the fire–before its odors are set free. The ground must be broken with the sharp plough–before it is ready to receive the seed. It is the broken heart, which pleases God. The sweetest joys in life–are the fruits of sorrow. Human nature seems to need suffering, to fit it for being a blessing to the world.