Matthew Henry, the Puritan preacher and Bible commentator, made this statement after a thief stole his money: Let me be thankful first because I was never robbed before; second, although they took my purse, they did not take my life; third, because, although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth, because it was I who was robbed, not I who robbed.
Matthew Henry, a notable Puritan preacher, reflected on a theft he experienced with a remarkable attitude of gratitude. He appreciated that it was his first robbery, highlighting a sense of good fortune in having escaped such experiences earlier in his life. Additionally, he acknowledged that while the thief took his money, he was grateful to still be alive, showing an awareness of the value of life over material possessions.
Furthermore, Henry noted the modesty of his loss, reminding himself that what was taken was not a significant sum. Finally, he expressed gratitude for being the victim rather than the perpetrator, indicating a moral perspective on the situation. His response underscores a profound ability to find positivity even in adverse circumstances, serving as an inspiring lesson in resilience and thankfulness.