_That a man be not too much dejected
when he feeleth some defect._
_Christ._ SON, patience and humility in adversity are more pleasing to
me, than much devotion in prosperity.
Why art thou grieved for every little trifle spoken against thee?
Although it had been much more, thou oughtest not to have been moved.
But now let it pass; it is not the first that hath happened, nor is it
any new thing, neither shall it be the last.
Thou art valiant enough, as long as no adversity happeneth.
Thou canst give good counsel, and strengthen others with thy words; but
when tribulation cometh to thy door, thou art destitute of counsel and
strength.
I yet live, saith the Lord, ready to help thee, and to give thee
greater comfort than before, if thou puttest thy trust in me, and
callest devoutly upon me.
2. Be patient, and prepare thyself to greater sufferings.
All is not lost, if thou feelest thyself afflicted, or grievously
tempted.
I am he, who will strengthen with health them that mourn, and raise up
unto glory those that know their own infirmity.
3. _Christian._ Lord, blessed be thy word, more sweet unto my mouth
than honey, and the honey-comb.
What should I do in tribulations, unless thou didst comfort me with thy
holy words?
What matter is it, how much and what I suffer, so I may at length
attain the port of salvation?
Grant me a good end. Grant me a happy passage out of this world!
Be mindful of me, O my God, and direct me in the right way to thy
kingdom. _Amen._