The trial you endure is heavy, yet the Lord does not afflict without purpose. The dry tree by divine grace shall flourish; the green tree, deserted by the dew of heaven, shall dry up. The low tree, fostered by the Husbandman, shall mount even to the stars; the high tree, cut down by the axe of judgment, shall lie outstretched. You are brought low by this weary strife, but that is no evil sign, remember Joseph in the dungeon, Hannah in the family of Elkanah, David when Samuel would have passed him by. The Lord exalts the low tree, and He will lift you up in due season. Your sister-in-law’s lying tongue and abusive messages spring from that arrogance of mind which dreams its way is higher than God’s. Her name is Pride, and she has made a refuge of lies, but such refuges must be swept away before the true shelter of divine grace is sought. Pray for her, for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, yet we bless those who curse us.
What a mercy that your husband has turned to Christ! That is no small thing. Even if his faith be little, it is faith; the Lord rebuked Peter for doubting, yet smiled upon him because it was faith. Faith is not a weed to grow on every dunghill without care or culture, it is a plant of heavenly growth and requires divine watching and watering. So pray without ceasing for the increase of his faith. The mercy of God lies at the foundation of our faith, and it wonderfully helps us to forgive. The shield of faith, fixed in the Person of Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever, must be taken up by him and by you. Bear the blows with that shield; it must be cut at, but it will not fail if it is of heaven’s forging. A feeble faith can receive a mighty Savior, even as a beggar with a palsied hand can receive a golden gift. Let him be of good courage: he has embarked on the right vessel, and though he be sick on board, the ship is safe.
In the midst of this dark world of sin and thronging duties, there is a peace that passes understanding. The blood of Jesus whispers peace within. You are not called to a false peace that ignores the Truth of God, but to that true peace which is the heritage of all believing ones, being justified by faith. When the lying words fly, retreat into that peace by keeping your mind stayed on Him. The Lord will bless His people with peace, whatever shall befall.
I do lift you before the throne of grace. May the Lord water that dry tree and make it flourish, protect your husband’s tender faith as the apple of His eye, confound the devices of the wicked, and grant you and your household the peace of God which passeth all understanding, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.