Divine Conduct, or The Mystery of Providence

Nay, (3.) Do but observe the Springs and Autumns of Providence, in what order they have flourished and faded with thee, and thou wilt find thy self over-powered with the sense of Divine Wisdom and Goodness: when necessity required, ⟨p. 194⟩such a friend was stirred up to help thee, such a place opened to receive thee, such a Relation raised up or continued to refresh thee: and no sooner doth Providence deprive thee of any of them, but either thy need of them ceases, or some other way is opened to thee. O the depth of Gods Wisdom and Goodness! O the matchless tenderness of God to his people!

(4.) Compare the dealings of Providence with you and others, yea, with others that sprang up with you in the same generation, it may be, in the same families, and from the same Parents, it may be in families greater and more flourishing in the world then yours, and see the difference, upon many great accounts, it hath made betwixt you and them. I knew a Christian, who after many years separation, was visited by his own Brother, the very sight of whom, wrought upon him, much as the sight of Benjamin did upon Joseph, so that he could not refrain to fall upon his neck, and weep for joy; but after a •ew hours spent together, finding the spirit of his Brother, not only estranged •rom all that's spiritual and serious, but also very vain and profane, he hastened to his chamber, shut the door upon him, threw himself down at the feet of God, and with flowing eyes, and a melting heart, admired the distinguishing Grace of God, saying, Was not Esau Jacob's Brother? O Grace, Grace, astonishing Grace!

(4.) Compare the dealings of Providence with you and others, yea, with others that sprang up with you in the same generation, it may be, in the same families, and from the same Parents, it may be in families greater and more flourishing in the world then yours, and see the difference, upon many great accounts, it hath made betwixt you and them. I knew a ChristJan, who after many years separation, was visited by his own Brother, the very sight of whom, wrought upon him, much as the sight of Benjamin did upon Joseph, so that he could not refrain to fall upon his neck, and weep for joy; but after a ew hours spent together, finding the spirit of his Brother, not only estranged rom all that's spiritual and serious, but also very vain and prophane, he hastened to his chamber, shut the door upon him, threw himself down at the feet of God, and with flowing eyes, and a melting heart, admired the distinguishing Grace of God, saying, Was not Esau Jacob's Brother? O Grace, Grace, astonishing Grace!