A Saint Indeed

But then, if we pursue this argument further, by considering that Gods permissions do all meet at last in the real good of his people, this will much more quiet our spirits. Do the enemies carry away the good figs, even the best among the people into captivity? this looks like a sad providence: but yet, God sends them thither for their good Jer. 24. 5. doth God take the Assyrian as a ⟨p. 62⟩staff in his hand to beat his people with? those blows are smart, and make them cry; but the end of his so doing is, that he may accomplish his whole work upon Mount Zion, Isa. 10. 12. If God can bring much good out of the worst, and greatest evil of sin; much more out of temporal afflictions, and it is as evident that he will, as that he can do so. For it is inconsistent with the wisdom of a common Agent, to permit any thing (which he might prevent if he pleased) to cross his great design and end; and can it be imagined that the most wise God should do so.

But then, if we persue this argument further, by considering that Gods permissions do all meet at last in the real good of his people, this will much more quiet our spirits. Do the enemies carry away the good figgs, even the best among the people into captivity? this looks like a sad providence: but yet, God sends them thither for their good Ier. 24. 5. doth God take the Assyrian as a ⟨p. 62⟩staffe in his hand to beat his people with? those blows are smart, and make them cry; but the end of his so doing is, that he may accomplish his whole work upon Mount Sion, Isa. 10. 12. If God can bring much good out of the worst, and greatest evil of sin; much more out of temporal afflictions, and it is as evident that he will, as that he can do so. For it is inconsistent with the wisdome of a common Agent, to permit any thing (which he might prevent if he pleased) to cross his great design and end; and can it be imagined that the most wise God should do so.