Why, then, should we fear what man may do unto us, or be distressed in regard to the Lord's work, as though Satan or any other evil power could prevail against it? Nevertheless, it is for us to show our devotion, not only by our zeal, but also by our prudence … therefore we are to proceed in the Lord's work as though the entire responsibility rested upon us, but in our hearts we are to recognize that the entire weight and responsibility rests with the Lord. Long ago someone said, "I am immortal until my work is finished"; and we may rely upon it that this is practically true of all engaged in the Lord's service that "precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints".
Amid the loss of all things earthly, the faithful follower of Christ finds a compensating blessing far transcending his losses. The consciousness of the Lord's presence in sympathy, appreciation and co-operation (which the world neither knows, can give nor take away) encourages him in his darkest hours and makes his sorrows joyous; for he knows that God is with him, and will not leave, fail nor forsake him.
Gen. 28:15; Ex. 33:14; Num. 6:24-26; Deut. 31:6, 8; Josh. 1:5, 7, 9; 1 Chron. 28:20; Psa. 37:25; Isa. 41:10, 13; 49:13-16; Matt. 28:20; John 14:1-3, 16-18, 26; 16:7, 13; 2 Cor. 13:14.
