Sunlight is never more welcome than after a long, dark night; Christ’s presence is never more appreciated than after a time of sorrow over His absence. It’s unfortunate that we often need to lose our blessings to learn to be thankful for them. Let us grieve over this flaw in our nature and strive to

express our gratitude for blessings so that we won’t have to lament their loss. If you want Christ to stay with you forever, give Him every key to your heart; don’t keep any part of it locked away from Him. Let Him into every room, and He will be more likely to remain.