July 2001

PRECIOUS THOUGHT: SORROW-A GREAT BENEFIT LESS COVETED

Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth. Ecclesiastes 7:3&4

This month's precious thought turns our minds to sorrow-something we're reluctant to even think about. It seems that Danniebelle knew the secret of having it better in sorrow. She could honestly say in one of her letters that she was the happiest that she had ever been, though it was during her illness and in a time when most people would have been depressed. But she found joy.

Whether it's in the realm of physical nutrition or spiritual condition, we tend to want and even like what's not good for us. We tend to resist what's best. Thank God that He chooses for us because He gives us a balance that always tips the scales in our favor. Thank God for sorrow because there's a benefit in it that we would deny ourselves. Sorrow is a reason that we rejoice-what a Precious Thought!

Though I long for times of merriment, I must confess That I have learned more of His love through times of brokenness.

Through seasons of great sadness, though I'm quick to seek relief; I've learned more of His power in the darkest times of grief.

And when the Shepherd stands at sorrows door and beckons me; My destiny's determined by what my next step will be:

I can lag behind and linger there and choose to wallow; Or else I can deny myself, take up my cross and follow.

Ironically, if I obey, then I'll find joy unknown; But I'll find only misery if I go on my own.

Written by PameLa Bates © 1998 Pretty Personal Poetry