CHAPTER XXIV.
_Of craving the divine aid, and confidence of recovering grace._
_Christ._ SON, I am the Lord, that giveth strength in the day of tribulation.
Come unto me when it is not well with thee.
This is that which most of all hindereth heavenly consolation, that thou art slow in turning thyself unto prayer.
For before thou dost earnestly pray unto me, thou seekest many comforts, and triest to refresh thyself with outward things.
And hence it comes to pass that all doth little profit thee, until thou considerest, that I am he that delivers those that trust in me; that out of me is neither powerful help, nor profitable counsel, nor lasting remedy.
But now having recovered breath after the tempest, gather strength again in the light of my mercies, for I am at hand to repair all, not only entirely, but also abundantly.
2. Is there any thing hard to me? Or am I like unto him that promiseth and performeth not?
Where is thy faith? Be firm and constant.
Take courage and be patient; comfort will come to thee in due time.
Wait, wait for me, I will come and heal thee.
Let not thy heart be troubled, neither let it fear.
Believe in me, and put thy trust in my mercy.
When thou thinkest thyself farthest off from me, often I am nearest unto thee.
When thou judgest, almost all is lost, then often is the greatest opportunity of improvement.
That which I have given I can take away; and restore it again when I please.
*3. When I give it, it is mine; when I withdraw it, I take not any thing that is thine; for mine is every good and perfect gift.
If I send any cross, repine not, nor let thy heart fail: I can quickly succour thee, and turn all thy heaviness into joy.
Nevertheless I am righteous, and greatly to be praised, when I deal thus with thee.
As my Father hath loved me, I also love you, said I unto my beloved disciples; whom I sent not to temporal joys, but to great conflicts: not to honours, but to contempts; not to idleness, but to labours; not to rest, but to bring forth much fruit with patience.
My son, remember these words.