Humbled And Exalted!
"I am like a pelican of the wilderness; I am like
an owl of the desert. I lie awake, and am like
a sparrow alone on the housetop."
Psalm 102: 6-7
Charles Spurgeon is remembered as one of history’s greatest
preachers but is less well-known for his bouts of depression
and self-doubt.
His anxiety reached a peak when several people were killed, and
many more were injured when false warning of “Fire!” caused an
audience of thousands to stampede. Many in the press blamed
Spurgeon. He wept for days after the tragedy.
The Bible passage that comforted Spurgeon most during bouts
of despair was Philippians 2:8-10—Paul’s teaching that
Jesus
humbled Himself to die on a cross but was then exalted by God.
Spurgeon kept reminding himself that, no matter what troubles
or humiliation find us in this life, Christians are part of a
story
of victory.
Spurgeon is also remembered for his empathy and compassion to
others who suffered emotional distress. He taught that there is no
shame in trials; there is victory in the One who overcame trials
of
His own and promises us the same.
Take comfort today that Jesus was humbled but was then exalted.
And all who follow Him will likewise be loved and cared for now
and eternally.
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"Do not, therefore, think that you
are quite alone in your sorrow."
Charles Spurgeon
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