“I will sing of mercy and justice” (Psalms 101:1)

Saints throughout history have been put in prison for their faith. Unlike other prisoners, they rejoice they were counted worthy to suffer for His name (Acts 5:41). Saints know they’ll be persecuted, because Christ warned them, “blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven” (Matthew 5:10). They’re keenly aware it’s part of an eternal plan to expose Christ to the world. They know, the Ultimate Judge is in control.

Faith triumphs in trial. She cries, “I will sing of mercy and of judgment, for Jesus Christ is Lord”. Faith pulls the black mask from the face of trouble, and discovers the angel beneath. It looks up, and says, “God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).

Even when judgments are of God, we can rejoice. First, the trial isn’t as heavy as it could have been; next, the trouble isn’t as severe as we deserved to suffer; and our affliction isn’t as crushing as the burden others have had to bear. Faith sees that in her worst sorrow, there’s not a drop of God’s wrath in it; it’s sent in love. Faith says in her grief, “This is a badge of honor, for it’s all part of God’s eternal plan for His Kingdom and my good”. So even if you’re not totally innocent, you know, “when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world” (1 Corinthians 11:31–32).

So Faith rides forth on the black horse, conquering, trampling down carnal reason and fleshly sense, and singing in victory, “All I meet I find assists me In my path to heavenly joy ... it led me To my blessed Savior’s seat.”