Andrew Bonar emphasizes the significance of the 'trial of faith,' illustrating that while believers may experience heaviness through various temptations, their joy in Christ sustains them. He draws parallels between the trials faced by Jesus and those encountered by believers, highlighting that these challenges serve a divine purpose and are precious in God's sight. Bonar encourages the faithful to view their trials as opportunities for growth and eventual glory, reminding them that God observes their struggles with deep interest. He concludes that enduring these trials without murmuring leads to greater rewards and honors in the presence of God.

J.R. Miller emphasizes that true joy in life begins when we surrender ourselves to God, paralleling the joy found in the Song of Solomon with the act of self-sacrifice. He illustrates that joy is not dependent on circumstances but rather on our relationship with Christ and our willingness to serve others selflessly. Miller points out that even in suffering, believers can find joy by trusting in God's plan and purpose, as exemplified by biblical figures like Job and Paul. He encourages Christians to embrace their burdens and challenges as opportunities for growth and deeper faith, ultimately leading to a life filled with song and joy. The sermon concludes with the reminder that the song of the Lord begins when we offer our lives as a living sacrifice to God.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound lessons from the fiery trial of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, illustrating how their unwavering faith in God led to miraculous deliverance without even the smell of fire upon them. He highlights four key outcomes of trials: the self-destruction of the enemy, the loosing of bonds, closer fellowship with the Lord, and the ultimate joy and glory that comes from enduring hardships. Sparks encourages believers to recognize that trials are not just tests but opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. He warns against allowing the trials to overshadow the joy of the Lord, urging the faithful to emerge from their struggles radiating His glory.

Art Katz explores Psalm 43, emphasizing the psalmist's deep distress and his struggle to reconcile his experiences with his understanding of God's character. The psalmist's cry for vindication reflects a profound intimacy with God, where his anguish stems not from personal suffering but from a perceived absence of God's action. Katz highlights that true faith is not merely waiting for relief but finding joy in God Himself, even amidst trials. The sermon encourages believers to embrace distress as a means to deepen their relationship with God, ultimately leading to a greater understanding of His nature and presence. The call to praise God in the midst of suffering is presented as a powerful act of faith and a declaration of hope.

A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound grace of God in choosing us before the foundation of the world, despite our sinful nature. He encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord always, highlighting that true joy comes from recognizing God as the Master of every circumstance, even in times of suffering and affliction. Pink reflects on the Apostle Paul's ability to maintain joy while imprisoned, reminding us that all things work together for good under God's sovereign control. He urges gratitude for all circumstances, asserting that our disappointments are divine appointments meant for our ultimate good. This perspective allows us to see God's love and purpose in every situation.

Octavius Winslow emphasizes that despite life's trials, God commands His loving-kindness, providing comfort and songs in the night. He illustrates how true joy and peace can exist even in the midst of suffering, as God, the source of all consolation, inspires a deeper music within the hearts of believers. Winslow reassures that the Christian experience, though often misunderstood by others, is filled with a hidden joy that transcends external circumstances. He reminds us that those who mourn will ultimately find comfort in God's presence and promises.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound peace and joy that come from yielding one's will to God and embracing a humble heart. He highlights the blessings of hungering for righteousness and the satisfaction that surpasses worldly pleasures. Simpson further explains that true happiness is found in mercy, forgiveness, and the act of giving, which leads to a double blessing. He concludes with the idea that suffering for Christ transforms into a deeper joy, illustrating the paradox of experiencing both tears and joy simultaneously in the Christian life.

A.W. Pink emphasizes the paradox of the Christian experience, where believers are blessed even in persecution for righteousness' sake. He explains that true followers of Christ will face reviling and false accusations, yet they are called to rejoice because their reward in heaven is great. Pink highlights that this suffering is a testament to their faithfulness and a means of fellowship with Christ's own sufferings. He encourages Christians to endure persecution with joy, drawing strength from the promise of eternal reward and the example of past prophets and martyrs. Ultimately, he reassures believers that their trials are not signs of God's disapproval but opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper connection with Christ.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound assurance of belonging to Christ, declaring that believers can confidently affirm their relationship with Him as their Head, Husband, and Savior. This assurance fosters patience, courage, and joy, enabling Christians to endure life's challenges with a heart full of hope and gratitude. Brooks encourages believers to remember the immense love and eternal promises of God, which far outweigh their earthly troubles, urging them to focus on rejoicing rather than whining. He reminds Christians that their mercies surpass their miseries, and a moment in Christ's presence will outweigh all earthly suffering.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the secret of gladness in the Christian life, asserting that true joy is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in God's love and grace. He explains that while Christians will face trials and sorrows, their joy can remain unshaken, as it is derived from a deep relationship with God. Miller encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of gladness through gratitude, a happy home, and a good conscience, while also recognizing the beauty of the world around them. He concludes that the essence of Christian gladness is a learned response to life’s challenges, reflecting the light of Christ even in darkness.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the transient nature of sorrow in the life of a Christian, reminding us that while weeping may endure for a night, joy will surely come in the morning. He illustrates how God transforms our hardships into blessings, turning our grief into gladness and our mourning into music. Brooks argues that a balance of both joy and sorrow is essential for spiritual health, as both mercy and adversity contribute to the growth of our faith. He concludes that the interplay of these experiences is vital for the flourishing of our souls, as trials often lead to the death of sin and the thriving of grace.