MARCH 8

“I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.”
(Psalm 23:4)

Consider how independent the Holy Spirit makes the Christian, regardless of external circumstances. A bright light can shine within us even when everything outside is dark. We can be firm, happy, calm, and peaceful when the world seems to shake and the very foundations of life are removed!

Even death, with all its terrifying implications, cannot silence the music in a Christian’s heart. Instead, it can make that music even sweeter, clearer, and more heavenly. The last act of kindness that death performs is allowing the earthly melody to blend into the heavenly chorus, transforming temporal joy into eternal bliss. We should have faith in the Holy Spirit’s power to comfort us.

Dear reader, if you are facing poverty, do not fear! The divine Spirit can provide a sense of abundance in your need that surpasses what the wealthy enjoy in their excess. You cannot foresee the joys that may flourish in a simple home, where grace will cultivate the roses of contentment. If you are aware of a decline in your physical abilities or anticipate long nights of suffering and days filled with pain, do not be disheartened! That bed of suffering may become your throne. Each pang that pierces your body can act as a refining fire, burning away the dross and illuminating the hidden areas of your soul.

Are your eyes growing dim? Jesus will be your light. Are your ears failing you? The name of Jesus will provide the sweetest music for your soul, and His presence will be your greatest joy.

Socrates once said, “Philosophers can be happy without music,” but Christians can find even greater happiness than philosophers when all outward sources of joy are stripped away.

In you, my God, my heart shall triumph, regardless of the troubles that surround me! By your power, blessed Spirit, my heart will be exceedingly glad, even when everything else fails me here below.