How great is the power of prayer, and how clear the mercy of God! For you were beset by a sudden storm: a child injured, an administrator blaming you, and your livelihood hanging by a thread. But the Lord, who hears the petitions of the faithful, turned the accusation aside. You have witnessed what the Scripture means when it says the floods and winds beat upon the house, yet the soul founded on the rock of Christ’s commands does not give way. This was a calamity, a false accusation, yet it could not overturn you because God was your foundation. Truly, to Him be the glory.
But reflect carefully: when do you account yourself most blessed? When you retain your wages, or when you can say in the midst of loss, “Blessed be the name of the Lord”? The devil strikes at our goods not to make us poor, but to wrest from us a blaspheming word. He knows that if a soul stays firm in thanksgiving, his attack has only brought gain. You have now been tested like the apostles, who stood firmer than a rock while waves of accusation broke over them. Rejoice, but do not become high-minded; instead, fear. For this was not a matter of your own natural strength, but of faith in Him who delivers. Never say, “I pleased God, so I have no need of prayer from others.” Hear how God declared through the prophet that even Noah, Daniel, and Job could not save a nation by their own righteousness if wickedness prevailed. Your deliverance came in part through the prayers offered for you. Acknowledge that debt, and remain humble.
As for the administrator’s blame, remember that many judgments spring from suspicion alone, and the ancient law established that every matter must be confirmed by witnesses. Yet when you endure false charges for Christ’s sake, it is not you who suffer harm, but those who bring the lie. The soul that sins is the one that dies. Do not receive an accusation against your accuser in your heart, nor judge him, lest your words become a snare to you. Even if you speak truth against him, you judge one in authority, and that is to your own hurt. Instead, show the mark of a philosophic soul: always give thanks. Has suffering come? If you give thanks to God, the evil is changed into good. You have seen proof: what appeared as the loss of your job became a cause for glorifying His name.
Carry this lesson with you. In whatever future trial arises, whether loss, bereavement, or the plots of strangers, stand on the rock of His teaching, and you will be set above every wave. Keep His commands strictly, and neither men nor devils shall prevail against you. Let this mercy teach you to fear God, to distrust your own power, and to live always in gratitude. For such a return here is already a crown, a foretaste of the peace that awaits those who trust in Him.