FJWL_01:419
         Have I not said that time is short? It is for this reason that I must use extreme measures to raise up My young soldiers; to train them in the ways of faith and trust; to train them to seek My face; to break down their self-confidence and their dependence on the arm of the flesh.
         My dear one, you are not the only one who is suffering affliction and a time of testing. There are many who are being tested and weighed in the balances. There are many who are being purged and chastened. But it is for a good reason. It is out of love that I bring these things to pass, because I see the future and I know what you will need in the times that are to come.
         I know that you will need strength of spirit, faith, and confidence in My Word. Above all, you will need confidence in My love for you, knowing that I do all things well, and that because I love you, it is My desire to care for you and to make you into the instrument that I would have you to be. It is for these reasons that you must pass through this time of affliction, this time of testing. It's not a bad thing; it's a good thing! It's not a punishment; it's a blessing!
         Know truly that all things, even this, will work together for good if you will trust Me and let Me have My way in your life through it. I am not a hard, harsh and unloving God Who wants to slap you down and deal with you in anger just to make you sad and discouraged. That is not My purpose at all! That is not My nature. I am a God of love. Though disguised and wrapped in a veil of suffering, I give you this blessing out of love for you, because I have faith in you, that you will be able to take it, that you will be able to bear it, and that through it, I will be able to work in your life and make you what I want you to be.
         After this time of testing you will come forth as pure gold, as a vessel prepared and fit for My service. So be not weary nor discouraged. Be not dismayed at these tests from My hand, but put yourself wholly and completely in My care, knowing that I am in control, and that I know every detail of your life, your heart, your mind, and your body. There is nothing that escapes My view. There is nothing that is not known to Me. There is nothing that can happen to you except it be by My permission.



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