The History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland

Here the Prophet bringeth in God amiably calling upon his people to come to himself, and to rest with him, until such time as the fury and sharp plagues should be executed upon the wicked and inobedient. It may appear at the first sight, That all these words of the Prophet in the person of God calling the people unto rest, are spoken in vain; for we neither find chambers nor rest more prepared for the dearest children of God (so far as mans judgement can discern) then there was for the rebellious and disobedient; for such as fell not in the edge of the sword, or dyed not of pestilence, or by hunger, were either carried captives unto Babylon, or else departed after into Egypt, so that none of Abraham's Seed, had either chamber or quiet place to remain within the Land of Canaan. For the resolution hereof, we must understand, That albeit the Chambers whereunto God called his Chosen, be not visible, yet notwithstanding they are certain, and offer unto Gods Children quiet habitation in spirit, howsoever the flesh be travelled and tormented.

Here the Prophet bringeth in God amiably calling upon his people to come to himself, and to rest with him, untill such time as the fury and sharp plagues should be executed upon the wicked and inobedient. It may appear at the first sight, That all these words of the Prophet in the person of God calling the people unto rest, are spoken in vain; for we neither finde chambers nor rest more prepared for the dearest children of God (so far as mans judgement can discern) then there was for the rebellious and disobedient; for such as fell not in the edge of the sword, or dyed not of pestilence, or by hunger, were either carryed captives unto Babylon, or else departed after into Egypt, so that none of Abrahams Seed, had either chamber or quiet place to remain within the Land of Canaan. For the resolution hereof, we must understand, That albeit the Chambers whereunto God called his Chosen, be not visible, yet notwithstanding they are certain, and offer unto Gods Children quiet habitation in spirit, howsoever the flesh be travelled and tormented.

The chambers are then Gods sure promises, unto the which Gods people are commanded to resort, yea, within the which they are commanded to close themselves in the time of greatest adversity. The manner of speaking is borrowed from that judgement and foresight, which God hath printed in this our Nature; for when that men espy great tempests appearing to come, willingly they will not remain uncovered upon the fields, but straightway they will draw them to their houses or holds, that they may escape the vehemency of the same; and if they fear any enemy to pursue them, they will shut their doors, to the end that suddenly the enemy should not have entry.