Daily Devotion

“When mortals encounter hardship, suffering, or illness, they should not blame fate or others. They should know that this is God's great healer, who uses this bitter cup to heal the deep-seated ailments of our souls, cut off the roots of pride, and draw us closer to the cross.”

Giulio Aleni · Kouduo Richao, Volume 4

Scripture

Hebrews 12:11 For nothing discipline seems pleasant at the time but rather painful, but later it produces a harvest of peace and righteousness for those who have been trained in it.

Reflection

Suffering is God’s grace in disguise, like the bitter cup brewed by the “Great Physician”. When we encounter illness or depression, although the flesh feels sad, it is the Holy Spirit who is pruning the roots of our pride. If life does not experience stripping, it will be difficult to see its own limitations. The Lord uses the "thorn" of the environment to force us to let go of our self-reliance and resistance and return to His cross. The current suffering is an operation to remove a chronic disease in the soul. As long as we are willing to practice it, it will eventually bear the fruits of peace and righteousness, leading us to true spiritual purity.