Spiritual Joy and Sorrow.
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As there is a sorrowful mirth—so there is a joyful mourning.
Look at the voluptuous man: however laughter may appear in his face—yet sadness always rests in his heart! His carnal delights are not only vain—but vexing!
While his banquet lasts—the sensualist sings; but when God's reckoning comes—his heart sinks!
But now look at the true penitent: as his tears are the joy of angels, so they are the joy of his soul.
The more briny his tears—the sweeter his comforts!
The deeper his sighs—the fuller his joy!
The beams of consolation—always shine into his house of mourning.
I may truly say, to mourn for sin—is to weep for joy! These pure and pleasant streams of consolation (which are the worldling's wonder) that flow in those crystal rivers of eternal pleasure at God's right hand—come from a weeping spring.
Why then is the mouth of wickedness opened against the way of holiness—as if grace were the Calvary to entomb joys; and impiety the very womb to bring forth happiness!
But if experience may be heard, my soul has felt both—I find such dissatisfaction in worldly pleasures, and such unspeakable delight in the depth of godly sorrow—that I esteem one drop of such spiritual joy—better than an ocean of carnal mirth!