A good man is willing to know the worst of himself, and particularly under affliction, desires to be told wherefore God contends with him and what God designs in correcting him.
Matthew HenryRead
What we count the ills of life are often blessings in disguise, resulting in good to us in the end. Though for the present not joyous but grievous, yet, if received in a right spirit, they work out fruits of righteousness for us at last.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life's challenges can often turn out to be hidden blessings that lead to positive outcomes.
This quote suggests that what we perceive as difficulties or misfortunes may actually serve a greater purpose, ultimately leading us to positive results. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a constructive attitude towards life's hardships, as these experiences can cultivate virtues like righteousness and resilience, despite their immediate discomfort.
Themes
BlessingsChallengesWisdomRighteousnessAttitude
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to encourage resilience in the face of adversity.
More from Matthew Henry
All quotes →There is a burden of care in getting riches; fear in keeping them; temptation in using them; guilt in abusing them; sorrow in losing them; and a burden of account at last to be given concerning them.
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To wait on God is to live a life of desire toward Him, delight in Him, dependence on Him, and devotedness to Him.
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Scriptures were written, not to satisfy our curiosity and make us astronomers, but to lead us to God, and make us saints.
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What God requires of us he himself works in us, or it is not done. He that commands faith, holiness, and love, creates them by the power of his grace going along with his word, that he may have all the praise.
Matthew HenryRead
No attribute of God is more dreadful to sinners than His holiness.
Matthew HenryRead
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