Ah! whenever the Lord removes one comfort, He is ready to supply another. He Himself leaves His disciples--but no sooner _does_ He leave, than Angels come and minister to them; and this is immediately followed by a mightier than Angelic Comforter--even the fulfilled promise of the Holy Spirit. "If I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you, but if I depart, I will send Him unto you." How graciously does Jesus thus adapt Himself to the character and trials of His people! What compensations He gives when they are suffering tribulation! One blessing is taken away--it is only that they may be brought more fully to value others which remain. A beloved friend is removed by death--the household is saddened at the stroke--its aching hearts are smitten and withered like the grass--but new spiritual consolations are imparted, unknown before--brighter manifestations of the Saviour's grace and mercy are vouchsafed--the Promises of God, like the ministering angels on Mount Olivet, are sent to hover around these stricken spirits. They are made to sing of "mercy" in the midst of "judgment!" Is Hagar in the desert? There is a fountain (though at first unseen) at her side! Is Elijah trembling in the dark cave of Horeb? There is a "still small voice" amid the long-drawn breath of the tempest, and earthquake, and storm;--"The Lord is _there_!" Be assured He will never leave nor forsake any that truly seek Him. To all desolate ones, who, like the Olivet disciples, lift the steadfast eye of faith heavenwards, bending like them in the silent attitude of resignation and faith--God will send comfort. He will have his angels ready to wipe weeping eyes and soothe sorrowful hearts.