Chrysostom
Humble Servant of All
I hear your plea for your brother, and I join my prayers to yours this very hour. It is a good thing to enjoy the intercession of the saints, yet let no one think that the prayers of others alone are enough while his own soul slumbers. You yourself must be watchful and continue instant in prayer. In this time of financial trouble, encourage your brother to be patient in tribulation, for tribulation works endurance and makes the soul hardy. Do not be overly troubled as though some strange thing were happening; we see not yet all things put under Christ, and the apostles themselves knew want and hardship. Instead, let this trial become an occasion to offer a sacrifice of praise and, according to your ability, almsgiving, these glorify God. But remember: if you lift up your hands while bearing any grudge, it is better first to be reconciled to your brother, then to offer your prayer. So with a clean heart let us ask the Master to provide, knowing that He comforts us in all our tribulation so that we may afterward comfort others. I trust He will supply every need and use this very affliction to draw your brother nearer to Himself.
