Was it like this from the start? Did light and darkness divide time right from the first day? Then it's no wonder I experience changes too, moving from the sunshine of prosperity to the midnight of hardship. It won't always be bright noon in my soul. I should expect times of lost joy and look for my Beloved in those dark moments.

I'm not alone in this. All of God's loved ones have sung the mixed songs of judgment and mercy, trial and deliverance, mourning and delight. Day and night won't stop until we reach the place where there is no night. What our heavenly Father ordains is wise and good. So what should you do, my heart? First, learn to be content with this divine order. Like Job, be willing to accept both good and bad from the Lord's hand.

Next, make the mornings and evenings bring joy. Praise the Lord for the rising sun of joy and for the evening's descent. There's beauty in both sunrise and sunset. Sing of it and glorify the Lord. Like the nightingale, let your song ring out at all hours.

Believe that night is as useful as day. Grace falls abundantly in the night of sorrow. Promises shine brightly in the darkness of grief. Serve faithfully through every change.

If your watchword by day is labor, then let it be watch by night. Every hour has its duty. Keep steadfast as the Lord's servant until He appears in glory. My heart, don't dread age and death as they draw near. They're part of life's day, and the Lord has promised to cover us all day long.