Sermons preached on several occasionsSermons preach'd on several occasions

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.

Now if either through strong Fears, or the stinging sense of Troubles upon the account of Religion, our Courage fails, we are presently in danger of falling away, and denying our Master. The fainthearted Person is usually falsehearted, ⟨p. 163⟩and for want of Resolution, being frighted out of his Conscience and Duty, chooses Sin rather than Suffering, and thereby justly deprives himself of the Crown of Life, that is promised only to those who are faithful unto the Death. Besides, not only the loss of Heaven, but the Torments of Hell are threatened against those who withdraw from the Service of God to avoid Temporal Evils. The fearful