I. Scripture-light the most sure light ... delivered in three sermons on 2 Pet.…

Fifthly: When God is especially present in Affliction, and more present in an Affliction, than at another time; it argues that the Affliction doth come from Love. Now, whoever you are, that make this Objection, and fear the Affliction doth not come from Love; are you not able to say, Thus I find it indeed, though I have been much afflicted, yet through Grace I have b•en able to bless the Lord under my Affliction, and to say, The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away? &c. I love the Lord never the lesser for mine Affliction; and the Lord hath taught me much in this mine Affliction; I have gained more by my sickness, than by many a Sermon; yea, and he hath cut me in due time; for if I had not met with such an Affliction at such a time, I did not know what evil I should have fallen into: and this I must needs say; I have had more of Gods Presence in my Affliction, than ever I had before. Well then, be of good Comfort, though your Affliction ⟨p. 280⟩be very grievous, yet it doth come from Love. And thus it is with all the Saints and People of God; and therefore, why should they be discouraged, whatever their Affliction be?

Object. 8 But though a Christian have no reason to be discouraged in regard of his own private Affliction, yet, hath he not reason to be discouraged, when it goes ill with the Public? And thus it is now with us; we see how it is with this poor Nation, Troubles and Calamities from every Part, therefore I am thus discouraged; and have I not cause to be cast down, and to be much disquieted now?

Object. 8 But though a Christian have no reason to be discouraged in regard of his own private Affliction, yet, hath he not reason to be discouraged, when it goes ill with the Publick? And thus it is now with us; we see how it is with this poor Nation, Troubles and Calamities from every Part, therefore I am thus discouraged; and have I not cause to be cast down, and to be much disquieted now?