Further Thought: Read Ellen G. White, “Effectual Prayer,” in Signs

of the Times, November 18, 1903; Ellen G. White Comments, p. 1182, in The

SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 4; “God Permits Trial and Affliction to Purify

Me,” p. 92, in My Life Today.

“He who reads the hearts of men knows their characters better than

they themselves know them. He sees that some have powers and sus-

ceptibilities which, rightly directed, might be used in the advancement

of His work. In His providence He brings these persons into different

positions and varied circumstances that they may discover in their

character the defects which have been concealed from their own knowl-

edge. He gives them opportunity to correct these defects, and to fit

themselves for His service. Often He permits the fires of affliction to

assail them that they may be purified.”—Ellen G. White, The Ministry

of Healing, p. 471.

Discussion Questions:

Ê It really can be hard while we are reaping the consequences of

our sin. “Will I ever be able to be made right with God again?”

we ask. What promises does God make that can encourage us to

persevere through such times and not give up? (See what Paul

writes later in Romans 5:1–11.) What can you say to someone who

is asking this very question?

Ë What does Ellen G. White mean by “His providence”? How

does this work? How do you know when something happens by

God’s providence? What acts of God’s “providence” have led to

trials in your own life? As a class, discuss what you’ve learned

at this time. How might you help someone else who is wondering

whether some event is indeed “His providence”?

Ì If you know someone who is going through a crucible experi-

ence right now, does it matter, or should it matter, what brought

it on? That is, how should you react to this person and his or her

suffering, regardless of what caused it?

Í A Christian young man living in South America went through

a bitter trial. After it was over, he moved to Europe and later com-

mented to someone, “I left my corpse in South America.” What

does that mean? Why must we all, in a sense, leave our corpse

somewhere? What role do trials have in that process?

Î As a class, plan an outing to a hospital or somewhere where

you could be of help, comfort, and cheer to those who, for what-

ever reason, are in a crucible.