The Christians two chief lessons viz. self-denial, and self-trial. As also the privilege of…The Christians tvvo chiefe lessons viz. selfe-deniall, and selfe-tryall. As also the priviledge of…

Secondly, as the affliction will be but small in respect of time and substance, so consider the issue; ⟨p. 83⟩look beyond affliction, and mark the good of it, and ever judge the Cross according to Gods judgment of it, Heb. 10.34.¹ you have in heaven a better, and more enduring substance: would not a man lay out an hundred pounds to have it doubled? you do not lose riches, you shall be rich in grace. Moses had an eye to the recompense of reward: had but Joseph thought his imprisonment would have brought him to honour, he had borne it gladly: had David thought the loss of Ziglag would have brought him to his kingdom, he would have endured it; so Rom. 8. afflictions are not worth the crown of glory. the crushing of the grapes makes wine, so when a proud heart is crushed, he is humble, 2 Cor. 4.17.² there is a crown of glory laid up; when the Lord is pursuing with misery, think the Lord is preparing a crown be not poring on misery, here is misery, but here is help too, Luke 21.19.³ In patience possess your souls; as who should say, resolve on this, do not put your hand on your sore; no, the Lord will recompense all.

Secondly, as the affliction will be but small in respect of time and substance, so consider the issue; ⟨p. 83⟩looke beyond affliction, and marke the good of it, and ever judge the Crosse according to Gods judgment of it, Heb. 10.34.¹