There are moments when our eyes shine with joy, and we can say, "I’m persuaded, confident, and certain." I don’t want to distress anyone who is struggling with doubt. Gloomy doubts often overwhelm us; there are times when you fear you haven’t been called, and you doubt your place in Christ. But what

a mercy it is that it’s not your hold on Christ that saves you, but His hold on you! What a comforting truth that it’s not about how tightly you grasp His hand, but how firmly He holds yours, that brings you salvation.

The Lord’s promise, once given, is never taken back.

We should grow in grace through the blessings we enjoy, but we probably make the most progress through the trials we endure. Gentle breezes may be pleasant for ships bound for Heaven, but strong winds often speed their journey. We might prefer calm weather,

but God has His way in the whirlwind, and He rides on the wings of the wind. Saints often gain more through their losses than through their successes.