When things go seriously wrong, either with the individual Christian or with the local church, diligent and solemn examination is called for. When the providential frown of God be upon us, and we ignore the same or -seek to make the best of a bad job,- we are only inviting still heavier chastisements. We are bidden to -hear the rod- -Mic. 6-9, and not to disregard or steel our hearts against it- and the first thing required of us in order to ascertain its message is to humble ourselves before the One who wields it, for -the meek will He guide in judgment, and the meek will He teach His way- -Ps. 25-9-. When God afflicts us we ought to afflict ourselves.