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Biblical, battle-tested, real-life help for "living by faith in the Son of God" (Galatians 2:20). — Steve Fuller

Sarah Edwards on the Death of Her Husband

Jonathan Edwards was one of the most powerful preachers and writers in Church history.

When he was 55 years old smallpox vaccinations had just come on the scene and since they were proving helpful, he was vaccinated.

But the doctor gave him too much, and he developed a fever which killed him.

This brought a severe trial to his wife, Sarah.  But she did not complain; she submitted to God´s sovereignty.  And she did not despair; she trusted God´s goodness.

We know this because of a letter she wrote to her daughter about her husband´s passing.  Here´s what she wrote:

My very dear child,

What shall I say?  A holy and good God has covered us with a dark cloud.

The Lord has done it.  He has made me adore his goodness, that we had him so long.  But my God lives; and he has my heart.

O what a legacy my husband, and your father, has left us!  We are all given to God; and there I am, and love to be.

Your ever affectionate mother,

Sarah Edwards

2 Responses

  1. daniel says:

    Hello!
    The quote I was seeking had words to the effect of “we must kiss the(this) rod…..” I can’t remember where though so if you can help ease do.
    Blessings in abundance to you all,
    Psalm 77

    • Steve Fuller says:

      Here is the full quote —

      My Very Dear Child,

      What shall I say? A holy and good God has covered us with a dark cloud. Oh that we may kiss the rod, and lay our hands on our mouths.

      The Lord has done it. He has made me adore His goodness, that we had him so long. But my God lives; and He has my heart.

      O what a legacy my husband, and your father, has left us! We are all given to God; and there I am, and love to be.

      Your ever affectionate mother,

      Sarah Edwards.

      (from “The Works of Jonathan Edwards,” Banner of Truth, Vol. 1, p.clxxix.)

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