Divine Conduct, or The Mystery of Providence

It is usual with Christians, to argue themselves into fresh reviving hopes, when the state of things is most forlorn, by comparing the Providences of God one with another.

(1.) It is a mighty composing meditation, when we compare the Providences of God towards the inanimate and irrational Creatures, with his Providences towards us. Doth he take care for the very Fowls of the air, for whom no man provides, as well as those at the door which we daily feed? Doth he so clothe the very Grass of the field? hear the young Ravens, when they cry for meat? and can it be supposed, he should forget his own people, that are of much more value than these?

(2.) Or if we compare the bounty and care that Providence hath expressed to the Enemies of God, how it feeds and clothes and protects them, even whilst they are fighting against him with his own mercies; it cannot but quiet and satisfy us, that surely he will not be wanting to that people ⟨p. 201⟩upon whom he hath set his love, to whom he hath given his Son, and for whom he hath designed Heaven it self.

(2.) Or if we compare the bounty and care that Providence hath expressed to the Enemies of God, how it feeds and clothes and protects them, even whilst they are fighting against him with his own mercies; it cannot but quiet and satisfie us, that surely he will not be wanting to that people ⟨p. 201⟩upon whom he hath set his love, to whom he hath given his Son, and for whom he hath designed Heaven it self.