Jean Wilkey

The Power of Faith in Facing Afflictions

by GHAZAL

O ye lovers of God!... Whatsoever may happen is for the best, because affliction is but the essence of bounty, and sorrow and toil are mercy unalloyed, and anguish is peace of mind, and to make a sacrifice is to receive a gift, and whatsoever may come to pass hath issued from God’s grace. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

As I reflected on this passage from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, I was struck by the profound wisdom of His words as well as the beauty of the language. To me, each word and phrase seemed carefully chosen to convey a message of hope and comfort to all who may be struggling with hardship or suffering.

The opening phrase, “O ye lovers of God!”, drew me in immediately and reminded me that these words are addressed to me as a member of a community of believers that shares a deep love and devotion for the divine. The use of “ye” gives the phrase a formal tone and makes it clear that these words are not to be taken lightly. The statement “Whatsoever may happen is for the best” is as profound as it is simple, offering as it does a message of hope and reassurance to any person who finds themselves facing difficult circumstances. These words assure anyone who reads them that, even in the midst of great pain, there is a deeper purpose.

The subsequent phrases, “affliction is but the essence of bounty” and “sorrow and toil are mercy unalloyed,” serve as a powerful reminder that, in the end, even the most difficult experiences will eventually take shape as blessings in disguise. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words make clear that our struggles are not in vain, but part of a larger plan that is working to our benefit. I found the phrase “anguish is peace of mind” particularly striking, as it suggests that by fully experiencing and accepting any pain that comes our way, we can achieve peace and tranquility. The message given here is both challenging and comforting, as it asks us to confront suffering head-on, even as it offers the promise of eventual healing and peace.

The statement in the final sentence that “whatsoever may come to pass hath issued from God’s grace” assures us that everything in life, no matter how challenging, is ultimately a gift from a loving Creator. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s use of the word “whatsoever” emphasizes the truth that whatever may come our way, we can always trust in the goodness of the process and reminds us that we should have faith in the divine plan, even when it may be difficult to see or understand. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s use of the word “grace” is especially significant, as it serves to remind us that what we receive from God is an unmerited favor, a blessing. Even if we do not feel we are deserving of God’s love and mercy, it is gift freely given.

For me, this passage from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is a powerful reminder of the deep spiritual truths that underlie our human experience of suffering and hardship. His language is both simple and profound, and His words convey a message of hope and comfort to all who are facing tests and difficulties. As I reflect on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words, I am filled with a feeling of peace and reassurance, for I am reminded that even in the midst of life’s greatest trials, there is always a deeper purpose and meaning.