Much that is helpful remains hidden in words and phrases that have become so familiar as to induce a perfunctory reading. One is apt to slip lightly, for instance, over such a phrase as is frequently found throughout the Old Testament, "And it came to pass," its direct meaning being the recording of an event. But when one pauses to consider that the word "pass" may also be taken as indicating progress, the expression may be seen to take on new value.
To one student these words, "And it came to pass," were of inestimable comfort and help when the need of the moment compelled a deep searching of the Scriptures for instruction. They revived within her a fresh faith, a new understanding. Many difficulties were confronting her, due to heavy financial losses, and it seemed necessary for her to enter upon a business career for which she had no precious training.
However, with a courage born of the understanding that every human demand comes merely to pass and give place to a next step, she went forward, taking firm hold upon the thought that a blessing would be gained within the circumstance if the human step was obediently taken. To the argumentative questioning as to why this experience had come upon her, she remembered with profit the answer that Jesus made to his disciples when they questioned him in a specific instance as to the reason of an infirmity. His reply was, "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him."
