When Sick (2)

(5) Labour for patience. Consider that the sickness is from God, who is powerful. We will get nothing by striving or murmuring; he will have his will fulfilled in us. Then consider it comes from God, who is your Father who loves you. Know also, that all the circumstances of your sickness are ordered by him, the degree and time are limited by him, he knows what is needful and fitting. Consider that you deserve much worse; cast yourself on his mercy. Consider what will be the fruit and end of all troubles, even the quiet fruits of righteousness. Though it be bitter, God is working my good. Though I feel it not now, later I will in his good time.
(6) Be heavenly-minded, thinking on nothing but that which may bring spiritual comfort. It is not fit that our minds should be on earthly things when our souls are going to heaven. If we would have a pattern of dying well, look on Christ; before his death, when he was troubled, he would have his disciples with him. So, when we are vexed with any temptation or trial, use such company as may bring spiritual comfort and strength to us. As Christ left his peace behind him (John 14:27), let us seek to preserve peace after our departure. As Christ studied how to do all his work, we should endeavour to do what we have to do, that with a clear conscience we may say as Christ did, 'Father, I have done the work you gave me to do' (John 17:4). Christ cared for his disciples and friends and his mother before he died (John 15:26; 19:27). We also ought to be careful for the well-leaving of them whom God has committed to our care. Christ was not vindictive; 'Father, forgive them' (Luke 23:34). So we must forgive all the world, yea, our enemies. Lastly, Christ commends his soul to God, 'Father, into your hands I commit my spirit' (Luke 23:46). We ought to imitate him and die in faith. When we die, we will die with comfort.

Devotional Readings taken from Puritan Richard Sibbes 'Refreshment for the Soul.'
Of the Providence of God, Works, vol. 5, pp. 44-45
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