Didaskalia De nobili dicto Davidis

"though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed" (1 Peter 1:6-7).

Whenever faith, stirred by the light of the Holy Spirit, sets before us the sufferings and the λύτρον ransom/redemption of our Lord Jesus Christ, then indeed, just as halcyons Kingfishers, traditionally associated with calm seas during winter enjoy total tranquility in the middle of winter, the Christian mind rejoices in that εὐθυμία cheerfulness/inner peace of which it is said: "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" (Matthew 11:29).

Therefore, since we can turn all adversities to our own benefit, there is no reason for us to complain that we are subject to their tyranny; rather, there is reason for us to congratulate ourselves on this exceptional happiness, because for those who love God, all things work together for good (Romans 8:28).

I shall say nothing, dearest Geuder, about men of my own order; I shall speak rather of political governors, to show that these, too, are not oppressed by adverse circumstances, but rather are victors and masters over them.

For if they were to act solely upon their own cause, relying on their own