An exposition of the prophecy of Hosea begun in divers lectures upon the first…An exposition of the prophesie of Hosea begun in divers lectures vpon the first…

First,¹ God ties not himself to the use of outward means in procuring of good to his people. Though all outward means fail, yet there may be ways of salvation for the Saints. Wicked mens hearts presently sink, if outward means fail: And indeed so much as our hearts fail when outward means fail, it is a sign that we did before rest upon the means, and if we had had the means, we should have robbed God of his honour. We must use means, but not rely upon the means.² I might show you excellent Texts of Scripture for this, as Psal. 33. 16. There is no King saved by the multitude of an host, a mighty man is not delivered by much strength, &c. And Psal. 44. 5. 6. Through thee will we push down our enemies, through thy name we will tread them under, that rise up against us; for I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me, &c.

First,¹ God ties not himself to the use of outward means in procuring of good to his people. Though all outward means fail, yet there may be wayes of salvation for the Saints. Wicked mens hearts presently sinke, if outward means fail: And indeed so much as our hearts faile when outward meanes faile, it is a signe that we did before rest upon the means, and if we had had the means, we should have robbed God of his honour. We must use means, but not rely upon the means.² I might shew you excellent Texts of Scripture for this, as Psal. 33. 16. There is no King saved by the multitude of an host, a mighty man is not delivered by much strength, &c. And Psal. 44. 5. 6. Through thee will we push downe our enemies, through thy name we will tread them under, that rise up against us; for I will not trust in my bowe, neither shal my sword save me, &c.