Sermons preached on several occasionsSermons preach'd on several occasions

1st. It renders them utterly indisposed for the performance of Duty. Hope draws forth all the active Powers of the Soul; 'tis the great Motive to Diligence, and Instrument of Duty. Despair, like extremity of Cold that checks the Spring, and binds up the Earth that its Fruits cannot appear, hinders the free Exercise of Reason and Grace, and cuts the Sinews of Obedience. He that is hopeless of a good Issue out of Troubles, will neither repent, nor pray, nor reform, but indulges barren Tears instead of real Duties.

Besides, it often falls out, that the same Affliction is sent from God's Displeasure upon his People for their Sins, and is the Effect of the Rage of Men against them upon ⟨p. 162⟩the account of their professing his Name. Such is the Wisdom and Goodness of God, that by the same fiery Trial he may refine his Servants from their Dross and Impurities, and render the Glory of the Gospel more conspicuous. The Hatred of Religion, and a blind Fury may transport Men to Acts of Cruelty against the Saints; but 'tis by the permission of the universal Sovereign, who hath the Hearts of all in his Hands, and suffers their Rage for holy Ends. The Enemy designs against their Faith, but God's Aim is to make them reform their Lives.

Besides, it often falls out, that the same Affliction is sent from God's Displeasure upon his People for their Sins, and is the Effect of the Rage of Men against them upon ⟨p. 162⟩the account of their professing his Name. Such is the Wisdom and Goodness of God, that by the same fiery Trial he may refine his Servants from their Dross and Impurities, and render the Glory of the Gospel more conspicuous. The Hatred of Religion, and a blind Fury may transport Men to Acts of Cruelty against the Saints; but 'tis by the permission of the universal Soveraign, who hath the Hearts of all in his Hands, and fuffers their Rage for holy Ends. The Enemy designs against their Faith, but God's Aim is to make them reform their Lives.