The obstacle became his alibi for weakness.

Step by step we shall get to see how truly this promise-precept

How good is known only by those who prove it in waiting on Him. How good none can fully tell but those who have proved Him to the utmost. My soul, wait thou only upon God!

Human life is every where a state in which much is to be endured, and little to be enjoyed.

If your determination is fixed, I do not counsel you to despair. Few things are impossible to diligence and skill. Great works are performed not by strength, but perseverance.

Sweet are the uses of adversity,Which like the toad, ugly and venomous,Wears yet a precious jewel in his head.Shak.As you like it. Concerning deliverance itself from all adversity

How small of all that human hearts endure That part which laws or kings can cuse or cure!

This iron world (the same he weeping says)Brings down the stoutest hearts to lowest state:For misery doth bravest minds abate.Spens.Hubberd's Tale.

I will venture to say, that in no writings whatever can be found more bark and steel for the mind, if I may use the expression; more that can brace and invigorate every manly and noble sentiment. No. 32 on patience, even under extreme misery, is wonderfully lofty, and as much above the rant of stoicism, as the Sun of Revelation is brighter than the twilight of Pagan philosophy.

Sometimes suffering is what's best for us, if only because it keeps us from sinning or tempting others to sin.

Trials in this life will expose what is in your heart—whether the offense is toward God or others. Tests either make you bitter toward God and your peers or stronger. If you pass the test, your roots will shoot down deeper, stabilizing you and your future. If you fail, you become offended, which can lead to defilement with bitterness.

He that is down needs fear no fall.