An exposition with practical observations continued upon the eighth, ninth and tenth chapters of…An exposition with practicall observations continued upon the eighth, ninth and tenth chapters of…

I might hence infer a corollary, by the rule of contrary, That Unrighteousness makes unprosperous and unpeaceful habitations. An habitation of idolatry and false worship, an habitation of cruelty and hard dealing, shall be an habitation for owls and screech-owls, a dwelling place for every unclean bird and beast; these shall take up their lodgings within such walls, and make their nests in such chambers.

I might hence inferre a corollary, by the rule of contrarie, That Ʋnrighteousnesse makes unprosperous and unpeacefull habitations. An habitation of idolatry and false worship, an habitation of cruelty and hard dealing, shall be an habitation for owls and shreech-owls, a dwelling place for every unclean bird and beast; these shall take up their lodgings within such wals, and make their nests in such chambers.

Whilst we are filled (as the Apostle characterizeth the Gentiles, Rom. 1.) with all unrighteousness; it is no marvel if we are filled with all trouble. The Prophet Malachi brings in Edom thus reflecting upon himself (Chap. 1.4.) whereas Edom saith, I am impoverished &c. Edom began to be sensible all was not well with him. Hereupon he advises upon a way to help himself, and concludes thus, We will return and build the desolate places. This was their resolve; but what saith God to it? Even this, Will ye build, ye shall build, I will give you leave to build, but I will throw it down again. I will spoil your work. Why would the Lord be thus severe? The next words give a reason, They shall call thee, the border of wickedness, the people against whom the Lord hath indignation for ever. Wickedness is a large word, and takes in all unrighteousness towards man, as well as impiety towards God. That building cannot stand long, where unrighteousness lies between the timber and the stones. God will pull down by night, what such men build by day. If then we would have buildings stand, and our habitations prosperous, let us labour to build with justice, and make ours, the habitations of righteousness. Look upon it in families, that which withers the comfort of a family, in children, in servants, is the unrighteousness found in a family; if there be unrighteousness there, no wonder, if there be decays and discontents there too. If there be unrighteousness in Cities; If (