Behind a Frowning Providence, He Hides a Smiling Face
“Ministers never write or preach so well, as when under the cross.”
– George Whitfield
I don’t know why, but I’ve always gravitated toward those who’ve endured suffering—far and above those whose lives are generally considered perfect.
Whenever I’m in the presence of anyone who’s been forever altered by a life of suffering, I am inexplicably drawn to them. They are beautiful and they possess a depth to their souls that causes them to stand out in the midst of everyone around them—a depth that only profound suffering can produce. Even more precious to me among those who’ve suffered, are those who understand that their suffering wasn’t for nothing, but was for a greater purpose.
In William Cowper’s hymn, God Moves in a Mysterious Way, he penned this verse:
“Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, but trust Him for His grace; behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.”
A fragrance of suffering permeates those who’ve experienced great pain, loss, and trials, and is far more attractive than that of those whose lives have been defined by happy, clappy superficiality (and this is especially true when it comes to those who occupy pulpits).
Continue reading here.
Christ Alone Wyoming 
J.L., I cannot imagine what you and your dear family are going through with little Kohen’s cancer. As you know, we have gone through some health issues ourselves and like you, I tend to gravitate toward those who have suffered.
However, as difficult as these days are, I am so thankful that God is the Great Physician. He can choose to heal or He can give great grace to endure whatever struggles we endure. What I cannot believe is that those who are not true believers try to get through their lives without God. Apart from relying on and resting in the arms of the Great Shepherd of the Sheep, I would have had no hope.
Thank you for sharing as always.
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