When inward trials and painful providences press upon the soul, how is a Christian to discern whether he is under fatherly chastening, spiritual assault, bodily weakness, or the ordinary sorrows of a fallen world?
There are times when a true Christian is brought very low and begins to ask, “What is this that is happening to me? Is the Lord chastening me, or am I simply passing through temptation, bodily weakness, mental strain, or the ordinary sorrows of this fallen world?” That question must be handled carefully. If answered badly, the bruised reed may be crushed. If ignored, the careless soul may remain hard.
I hope that through these thoughts I can give you, dear friends, some help.
Christ's words to weary pastors in hard places
The Lord Jesus has told us what to do and where to begin. “And that repentance and remission of sins …