The Whole Counsel Letters that Continue to Speak IX: God’s Kindness in Our Trials
In this week’s episode of The Whole Counsel, Dr. John Snyder continues our series on Christian letters from the past, focusing on Letter 4 to Mrs. —, written by John Newton. These letters, though centuries old, still speak powerfully into our lives today.
This week’s letter reveals Newton’s pastoral heart as he guides a friend through illness and spiritual struggle. He addresses a question many believers wrestle with: Why does God allow difficulties in the life of a Christian? Newton doesn’t offer simple answers or platitudes. Instead, he points to the sovereign wisdom and tender care of our Shepherd, reminding us that even the most painful trials can serve our spiritual growth.
Newton encourages Mrs. — to see her hardships in light of God’s greater purposes. He reminds her that God’s love is both merciful and wise, allowing what is necessary to purify, teach, and strengthen His children. And when life feels bleak, he offers hope: God is always present, His ear always attentive, and His power sufficient to sustain us.
Whether you’re walking through illness, disappointment, or other trials, this episode offers practical insight and encouragement for leaning on God in every season.
You can read this week's letter here:
You can read next week’s letter here:
Read all eight letters to Mrs. —
First Letter to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/first-leter-to-mrs
Second Letters to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/second-letter-to-mrs
Third Letter to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/third-letter-to-mrs
Fourth Letter to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/fourth-letter-to-mrs
Fifth Letter to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/fifth-letter-to-mrs-
Sixth Letter to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/sixth-letter-to-mrs
Seventh Letter to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/seventh-letter-to-mrs
Eighth Letter to Mrs.: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/eighth-letter-to-mrs
Watch all the episodes of this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW0xuCgknPDMzuC301aRv8v3tga_psAcK What all Whole Counsel episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW0xuCgknPDMtoTMNlcPdqOqkg0vuNlYG See Media Gratiae Original Project: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW0xuCgknPDPqcYtQL-uT7Dx4OcprVlik
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