Better Farther On
God's affliction has a limit, and we can trust that He will turn our night into day and bring us a great calm.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that affliction from God has a limit and serves a purpose, reminding us that our suffering will eventually end, especially when our earthly life concludes. He encourages believers to patiently endure their trials, trusting that God will remove affliction once its purpose is fulfilled, whether it be for correction or testing. Spurgeon reassures that after tribulation, joy and peace will follow, urging us to maintain hope and anticipate the blessings that lie ahead. He highlights the transformative power of God, who can swiftly change our circumstances from sorrow to joy. Ultimately, he calls for a spirit of praise and optimism, affirming that it is indeed better farther on.
Text
Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more. (Nahum 1:12)
There is a limit to affliction. God sends it, and God removes it. Do you sigh and say, "When will the end be?" Remember that our griefs will surely and finally end when this poor earthly life is over, Let us quietly wait and patiently endure the will of the Lord till He cometh.
Meanwhile, our Father in heaven takes away the rod when His design in using it is fully served. When He has whipped away our folly, there will be no more strokes. Or, if the affliction is sent for testing us, that our graces may glorify God, it will end when the Lord has made us bear witness to His praise. We would not wish the affliction to depart till God has gotten out of us all the honor which we can possibly yield Him.
There may today be "a great calm." Who knows how soon those raging billows will give place to a sea of glass, and the sea birds sit on the gentle waves? After long tribulation the Rail is hung up, and the wheat rests in the garner. We may, before many hours are past, be just as happy as now we are sorrowful. It is not hard for the Lord to turn night into day. He that sends the clouds can as easily clear the skies. Let us be of good cheer. It is better on before. Let us sing hallelujah by anticipation.
Sermon Outline
- God's Limit to Affliction
- God's Design in Affliction
- Hope for the Future
- A great calm may come soon
- Our happiness may be just around the corner
Key Quotes
“It is not hard for the Lord to turn night into day. He that sends the clouds can as easily clear the skies.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Let us be of good cheer. It is better far on before. Let us sing hallelujah by anticipation.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- We can trust that God's affliction has a limit and will end when He has served His purpose.
- We should patiently endure the will of the Lord and wait for His deliverance.
- We can be of good cheer and trust that a great calm may come soon.