I have been with those dear friends since that day in many a sorrow. But concerning that particular sorrow, I have never heard a murmuring word, from that instant when the Holy Spirit revealed to them, that, for their dedication of their firstborn son to his service, God had already granted him a heavenly consecration to ministries in the very presence of Christ the Lord. Early lost, early saved. The Christian in Sickness. This is a form of affliction which brings a Pastor into intimate connection with almost every member of his spiritual flock, at some time.
Cases vary so infinitely that nothing but general directions can be given.
A Pastor is to strengthen, encourage, and cheer. No depressing views are to be taken. The case being that of a true child of God, nothing is to be done or spoken but what will animate, increase faith and brighten hope. The Christian in Insanity. A Pastor not seldom meets this peculiar form of disease.