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I. THE TROUBLED HEART. Trouble in estate is bad, but heart trouble is worst. The mariner cares not for the howling tempest, but matters are serious when the sea gains entrance. Causes.

1. Unpardoned sin.

(1)  We cannot ignore it.

(2)  Dare not excuse it.

(3)  Are unable to expiate it.

2. Separation from beloved friends.

(1)  By absence;

(2)  by death.

3. Persecution.

4. Disappointed hopes. So the disciples have trials. Sometimes from a clear sky the thunder peals; from richest verdure the venomous serpent hisses.

II. THE QUIET HEART.

1. We acknowledge the authority of the decalogue; but our Lord's command is equally binding.

2. This is the purpose of God. Every apparent discord leads up to the final harmony.

3. The quiet heart is the best learner, worker, warrior.

4. The quiet heart is a mirror of heaven.

III. HOW CAN THE TROUBLED HEART BE MADE INTO THE QUIET HEART.

1. The old belief in God. The Jews had fallen into polytheism, but the captivity cured them. Christ points to the old well of comfort — a firm belief in one ever-living God.

(1)  God will smite all wrong.

(2)  He will bring forth the righteous as the sun.

2. The new belief in Christ. Inferentially a proof of Christ's Divinity.

(1)  As the great atoning Substitute. There is nothing in the new philosophy to calm the troubled heart.

(2)  As our sympathizing Brother and High Priest.

(3)  As alive forever more.

(4)  As our Representative and Forerunner — "I go to prepare a place," etc.We need not shrink from "Worlds unknown." He has made them well known; "brought life and immortality to light," and will come again and receive us unto Himself.

(W. Andersen, LL. D.)

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KJV: Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

WEB: "Don't let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in me.