(James Alexander, "Consolation" 1852)
"Father, if You are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from Me. Nevertheless, I want Your will to be done, not Mine!" Luke 22:42
The first law of true religion is submission to God's will. 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)
"It is the LORD. Let Him do what seems good to Him." 1 Samuel 3:18
"Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I shall return there. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD!" Job 1:21
"May the Lord's will be done." Acts 21:14
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