An expository comment, doctrinal, controversial, and practical upon the whole first chapter to the…An expository comment, doctrinal, controversal, and practical upon the whole first chapter to the…

First, God in thy troubles, may deny thee comfort, to teach thee that they are his gift. This cooling wind bloweth when he pleaseth. We might think, that comfort was our desert, that God could not be just to leave us without it, when it is for his cause we are troubled; but God will let thee know, that when thou hast suffered to the utmost, thou hast but done thy duty; God is not beholding to thee. And therefore, if he giveth thee these cordials, know, it's of his mercy; thou hast not merited them: And when thou hast them, receive them thankfully.

Secondly, Doth God deny thee thy desired comforts? consider whether thy ¹sins have not deserved it. For although thou sufferest for him, yet it may be, much unbelief, much impatience, much frowardness hath risen in thy heart; now these misty fogs, will obscure the glorious beams of his favour. God is ready with his comfort, but thou art indisposed: Thy heart is like an untuned Instrument, and so there cannot be any melodious sound.

Secondly, Doth God deny thee thy desired comforts? consider whether thy ¹sinnes have not deserved it. For although thou sufferest for him, yet it may be, much unbelief, much impatience, much frowardnesse hath risen in thy heart; now these misty foggs, will obscure the glorious beames of his favour. God is ready with his comfort, but thou art indisposed: Thy heart is like an untuned Instrument, and so there cannot be any melodious sound.

1. 12. Because perhaps by our sins we have deserved it. 3. God often denies comforts for the that they may be the more welcome when they come. 4. And often to try whether my obedience be pure.