This sermon emphasizes God's purpose in allowing difficulties and poverty, highlighting how those in need may call upon Him for salvation and how the world will recognize Jesus through their experiences. It explores the concept of chosenness, where individuals who have suffered greatly come to believe they are chosen by God, leading to a ripple effect of more people turning to Christ through their testimonies. The message also touches on the response of the rich when they witness the transformation in the lives of the poor, causing them to seek Jesus out of jealousy and recognition of God's work.

This sermon emphasizes the theme of light in the darkness, highlighting the struggles faced by the upright, the dangers of apostasy, and the need for God's intervention and guidance. It traces historical events where God's light shone in times of darkness, leading to victories and the preservation of truth. The speaker reflects on the formation of the Free Presbyterian Church amidst opposition, celebrating God's faithfulness and the ongoing battle against apostasy.

Andrew Bonar emphasizes God's compassionate presence in times of sorrow, illustrating how He cares for even the most distressed individuals, like Hagar, and reassures them through His promises. He encourages believers to trust in God's guidance and provision, reminding them that their lives are orchestrated by Him, and that all things work together for their good. Bonar highlights the importance of prayer and casting our cares upon God, assuring that He is attentive to our needs and will provide peace amidst turmoil. He draws on various scriptures to reinforce the message that faith in God alleviates fear and anxiety, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and comfort.

St. Augustine preaches on the importance of humility and childlike faith in praising the Lord, emphasizing that pride hinders one from entering the kingdom of heaven. He reflects on the exaltation of the humble by God, who lifts them from destitution and sets them among princes, urging believers to embrace humility and not despise being under the Lord's right hand.

John Ker preaches about seeking deliverance from doubt by engaging in calm, reverential inquiry into God's nature and His Word, through humble prayer to the Father of lights, by holding onto the nearest truth and acting upon it, by striving to be genuine and true, and by constantly returning to the core truths of God's character as just, loving, and merciful. He emphasizes that for the upright, light arises in darkness, and encourages a focus on the assured hope of God's ultimate justice and mercy.

Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the assurance that even in the darkest times, the Lord's light will shine upon us, bringing hope and dispelling fear. Just as Paul Gerhardt's hymn encourages, God will break through the prison of darkness, flooding our hearts with His light. Richard Sibbes emphasizes that even when we cannot see the light, if we anchor our faith and pray for God's intervention, He will bring clarity and light both externally and internally, dispelling the darkness of despair.

Charles Stanley preaches on the importance of fearing the Lord, emphasizing that it involves appropriate awe and reverence for who God is, rather than terror. He highlights how the fear of the Lord leads to hating evil, acquiring wisdom, and growing in love for the Bible and God's commandments. Stanley also discusses the blessings that come from fearing God, such as a strong family and divine protection in times of darkness and distress.