"He [the believer] will not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD."
It is good to be so confident in one's faith in Christ, that there is no fear of slander, "bad tidings," or the threat of evil. Only a sincere churchman, who has gained a lot of assurance in Christ, is in this blessed condition. When reports that we have been slandered (for instance) reach our ears, it is never pleasant--but we need not be much moved by them, either.
And why all this strange peace, in the midst of various storms? Because, "[The believer's] heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord." Let all God's churchmen trust in Him, and take their comfort in Christ's grace and peace.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Man's unrighteousness must usher in Christ's righteousness." --William Bridge, in "A Lifting Up for the Downcast"]
