If we are children, we are also heirs, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Rom. 8:17,18. And Christ says: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, that ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice; and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.” A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. John 16:20,21. Thus, my most beloved, take these words of Christ, for an example, that it must be thus with us until we have born Christ.
Therefore, my most beloved, consider well the Scriptures, how he constantly speaks of tribulation and suffering in this present time, always, however, adding comfort, even as he says: “Blessed are ye that mourn; for ye shall be comforted.” Matt. 5:4. Again: “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. And again: “Fear not, I will not leave you orphans.” John 14:18. And even as he speaks through the prophet Isaiah: “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.” Is. 49:15.
Hence, my most beloved, be comforted by these words, and by all the glorious riches of which you have become a partaker through faith, and you need not be astonished that you now weep, since you certainly well know, that in this present time nothing is promised us, but tribulation, suffering, persecution, and weeping, but it is written: “Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall weep.” Luke 6:21,25. Hence it is better to weep now, than afterwards, since the time is coming which will endure forever; and the things which now are must soon perish. Therefore, my most beloved, cast your care upon the Lord, for he cares for you: and be strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness: giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, through his beloved Son Jesus Christ our Lord, unto whom be praise, honor and glory, now and forever. Amen. Colossians 1:11–13.
Herewith, I your faithful husband, commend you, my most beloved wife, to the Lord, and to the word of his grace. Amen. May the Lord strengthen and stablish you by his Spirit, that you may keep unto the end that which you have and thus receive the crown of life, and wait with patience for the time of your redemption. The peace of the Lord be with you, and with all that fear and love the Lord, and keep his commandments.