"Yes, there are many crosses, and every one of them is heavy and painful. And it is unlikely that I would seek out even one of them on my own. Yes Jesus is never as near to me as when I lift my cross, lay it submissively on my shoulder, and welcome it with a patient and uncomplaining spirit.
He draws close to me in order to mature my wisdom, deepen my peace, increase my courage, and supplement my power. All this He does so that through the very experience that is so painful and distressing to me, I will be greater use to others. And then I will echo these words of one of the Scottish Covenantors of the seventeenth century imprisioned for his faith by John Graham of Claverhouse"--"I grow under the load." Alexander Smellie
Use the cross you bear as a crutch to help you on your way. not as a stumbling block that causes you to fall.
You may others from sadness to gladness beguile,
If you carry your cross with a smile.
(Streams in the Desert L.B. Cowman)
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