“Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.” Hebrews 12:4
What is the meaning of Christian suffering? Unless we are called to martyrdom, our resisting and striving against sin has not reached the point of bloodshed. Nevertheless, we still condemn our lot. Do we expect to have a prosperous road in this life—to wear a white linen garment and walk leisurely on a golden street leading to a pearly gate?
God has arranged all kinds of environment, all sorts of happenings, and many sufferings, all with a view to creating in each of his children a certain character which will glorify him. To be scourged may be the evidence of his approval. Chastisement is love’s arrangement. Love measures and love plans. God may not deal thus with everyone, but he certainly does so with those whom he has accepted as sons.