Darlene Rose

I awoke to the smell of jasmine, gardenia and rose this morning. I could just sit here, take it all in and be carried away.

It was quite natural then, that I expect the Lord to stop me at a scripture that would describe a beautiful garden. But…..

Psalm 119:71 Before I was afflicted, I went astray.

After a short while, the connection of the fragrances to the “affliction word” was made.

Song of Solomon 4:16 Awake, north wind! Come, south wind! Blow on my garden to spread its fragrance.

We need the fires and harsher winds of affliction, (north winds) to humble us and keep us steady, just as much as we need the warmth of the sun and gentle rains (south winds) to grow.

Some of you are experiencing affliction at this moment. I want to encourage you to keep eyes upon Him. Your fragrance and colors and stamina are being established; your ability to keep His commands are being perfected in you today.