Yet He contented, and why not you?

Here is a valuable reminder from John Flavel. I ran across this quote while reading a chapter out of A.W. Pink’s book Gleanings in the Godhead (specifically from the last chapter titled “The Example of Christ”, which I highly recommend).

O that in this also the poorest Christians would imitate their Saviour, and learn to manage an afflicted condition with a contented spirit: let there be no complaints, or foolish charging of God heard from you, whatever straits or troubles He brings you into.

The meanest and most afflicted Christian is owner of many rich, invaluable mercies (Eph 1:3, 1 Co 3:23*). Is sin pardoned and God reconciled? then never open your mouths any more. You have many precious promises that God will not forsake you in your straights (Heb 13:5*). Your whole life has been an experience of the faithfulness of God to His promises. How useful and beneficial all your afflictions are to you! they purge your sins, wean you from the world, and turn to your salvation; then, how unreasonable must your discontentedness at them be! The time of your relief and full deliverance from all your troubles is at hand: the time is but short that you shall have any concernment about such things. Your lot falls by Divine direction upon you, and bad as it may be, it is much easier and sweeter than the condition of Christ in this world was. Yet He contented, and why not you? (John Flavel).

*Scriptures referenced within the quote

Ephesians 1:3 – Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

1 Corinthians 3:23 – And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

Hebrews 13:5 – Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.