See how independent of outward circumstances the Holy Spirit can make the Christian! A bright light can shine within us even when it's dark all around. We can be firm, happy, calm, and peaceful while the world shakes and its foundations crumble. Even death itself cannot silence the music in a Christian's heart. Instead, it makes the music sweeter, clearer, more heavenly, until the earthly notes dissolve into the heavenly chorus, the temporal joy into eternal bliss.

Let's trust in the Holy Spirit's power to comfort us. Are you facing poverty? Fear not; the Spirit can provide greater plenty in want than the rich have in abundance. You never know what joys grace can plant around your cottage of content.

Are you aware of your body's growing weakness? Expecting long nights of suffering and days of pain? Don't be sad! That bed may become a throne to you.

Every painful pang can refine you, lighting up the hidden parts of your soul. If your eyes grow dim, Jesus will be your light. If your ears fail, His name will be the sweetest music, and His presence your joy. Socrates said, "Philosophers can be happy without music," but Christians can be happier when all outward sources of joy are gone. In you, my God, my heart shall triumph no matter what troubles come from outside! By Your power, O blessed Spirit, my heart will remain extremely glad, even when everything else fails here below.