======================================================================== THE CELLARS OF AFFLICTION by John Henry Jowett ======================================================================== Summary: In times of affliction, we can find deliverance and rise above our circumstances by being spiritually exhilarant and having the regal right of peace in Christ Jesus. Topics: "Spiritual Strength", "Overcoming Affliction" Scripture References: Psalm 23:5, Psalm 34:19, Psalm 42:8, Romans 8:37, Philippians 4:7 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ DESCRIPTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------ John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of finding spiritual deliverance and strength in the midst of afflictions by seeking the promises of God and experiencing His vitalizing grace. He highlights the concept of rising above afflictions by being spiritually exhilarated, enabling believers to be 'more than conquerors' in Christ Jesus even in the midst of challenges. Jowett points out that true deliverance is not necessarily being removed from affliction, but rather having the peace, strength, and hope that come from a deep relationship with God, allowing believers to sing songs of praise even in the darkest times. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CONTENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------ PSALM xxxiv. 9-22. Samuel Rutherford used to say that whenever he found himself in the cellars of afflictions he used to look about for the King's wine. He would look for the wine-bottles of the promises and drink rich draughts of vitalizing grace. And surely that is the best deliverance in all affliction, to be made so spiritually exhilarant that we can rise above it. I might be taken out of affliction, and emerge a poor slave and weakling. I might remain in affliction, and yet be king in the seeming servitude, "more than conqueror" in Christ Jesus. It is a great thing to be led through green pastures and by still waters; I think it is a greater thing to have a "table prepared before me _in the presence of mine enemies_." It is good to be able to sing in the sunny noon; it is better still to be able to sing "songs in the night." And this deliverance may always be ours in Christ Jesus. The Lord may not smooth out our circumstances, but we may have the regal right of peace. He may not save us from the sorrows of a newly-cut grave, but we may have the glorious strength of the immortal hope. God will enable us to be masters of all our circumstances, and none shall have a deadly hold upon us. ======================================================================== Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/john-henry-jowett/the-cellars-of-affliction/ ========================================================================