Checkbook of the Bank of Faith

TO be left uncorrected would be a fatal sign: it would prove that the Lord had said, "He is given unto idols, let him alone." God grant that such may never be our portion! Uninterrupted prosperity is a thing to cause fear and trembling. As many as God tenderly loves he rebukes and chastens: those for whom he has no esteem he allows to fatten themselves without fear, like bullocks for the slaughter. It is in love that our heavenly Father uses the rod upon his children.

Yet see, the correction is "in measure": he gives us love without measure, but chastisement "in measure." As under the old law no Israelite could receive more than the "forty stripes save one," which ensured careful counting and limited suffering, so is it with each afflicted member of the household of faith—every stroke is counted. It is the measure of wisdom, the measure of sympathy, the measure of love, by which our chastisement is regulated. Far be it from us to rebel against appointments so divine. Lord, if you stand by to measure the bitter drops into my cup, it is for me cheerfully to take that cup from your hand, and drink according to your directions, saying, "Your will be done."