MH page 472

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 4:12, 13 .

Believers should not be surprised by trials, but rejoice in sharing Christ's sufferings. This paragraph consists entirely of a direct biblical quotation from 1 Peter offering spiritual encouragement.

In the full light of day, and in hearing of the music of other voices, the caged bird will not sing the song that his master seeks to teach him. He learns a snatch of this, a trill of that, but never a separate and entire melody. But the master covers the cage, and places it where the bird will listen to the one song he is to sing. In the dark, he tries and tries again to sing that song until it is learned, and he breaks forth in perfect melody. Then the bird is brought forth, and ever after he can sing that song in the light. Thus God deals with His children. He has a song to teach us, and when we have learned it amid the shadows of affliction we can sing it ever afterward.

God uses times of affliction and hardship to teach His children valuable spiritual lessons. The text presents an analogy about a caged bird learning to sing in the dark to illustrate divine pedagogy during human suffering.

Many are dissatisfied with their lifework. It may be that their surroundings are uncongenial; their time is occupied with commonplace work, when they think themselves capable of higher responsibilities; often their efforts seem to them to be unappreciated or fruitless; their future is uncertain.

Many people experience dissatisfaction with their current life circumstances, unappreciated labor, and uncertain futures. While describing a common human psychological and vocational state, it serves primarily to set up a pastoral and ethical reflection on duty.

Let us remember that while the work we have to do may not be our choice, it is to be accepted as God's choice for us. Whether pleasing or unpleasing, we are to do the duty that lies nearest. “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 .

Individuals should accept their assigned duties and work diligently with their might. This paragraph offers ethical and spiritual counsel on diligence, using a biblical proverb to encourage faithful performance of present duties.