Christ chiefly manifests Himself in times of affliction, because then the soul unites itself most closely by faith to Christ. The soul, in time of prosperity, scatters its affections, and looses itself in the creature; but there is a uniting power in sanctified afflictions, by which a believer, (as in rain a hen collects her brood) gathers his best affections unto his Father and his God.
Richard SibbesWe cannot say this or that trouble shall not befall, yet we may, by help of the Spirit, say, nothing that doth befall shall make me do that which is unworthy of a Christian.
Richard SibbesLet weak Christians know that a spark from heaven, though kindled under green wood that sobs and smokes, yet it will consume all at last.
Richard SibbesA man knows no more in religion than he loves and embraceth with the affections of his soul.
Richard Sibbes