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Do you ever respond poorly when things aren’t going well? If so, you’re normal!

In 1775, John Newton developed a cold followed, for several weeks, by almost complete deafness. Unable to understand even loud conversations, Newton wondered if the deafness might be permanent. How discouraging! 

When Newton’s hearing did eventually return, he wrote this:

“My other great mercy was, that the Lord was pleased to preserve me in a peaceful, resigned frame: so that when I was deaf, and could not be certain that I should recover my hearing any more, I was in general as cheerful and easy as at other times. This was the effect of his goodness: for though I know enough of his sovereignty, wisdom, and faithfulness, of his right to do what he pleases, and the certainty that he does all things well, to furnish me with arguments enough to prove that submission to his will is our absolute duty; yet I am sensible, that when the trial actually comes, notwithstanding all the advice I may have offered to others, I should myself toss like a wild bull in a net; rebel and repine; forget that I am a sinner, and that he is sovereign: this I say would always and invariably be the case, unless he was graciously pleased to fulfill his word, that strength shall be according to the day.” 

(John Newton, Cardiphonia, Letters to a Nobleman, X)

In other words, says Newton, “I normally would have fallen apart. That’s my nature.” Sound familiar? “The fact that, in that particular instance, I still found joy was", he says, "a gift of God’s amazing grace.”

The lesson? When things get tough and you don’t always respond in the way you should, realize that you’re not alone! Confess it to God and depend on Him for help. 

On the other hand, when things get tough and you somehow remain composed, still find a smile, still sing to the Lord, realize that itself is a gift from God, who is working in your life to give you peace beyond yourself – a peace that passes understanding!