The Art of Divine Contentment

SECT. 15.

15. Rule. Believe the present condition is best for us.

15. Rule. Beleeve the present condition is best for us.

Flesh and blood is not a competent judge. Surfeited stomachs are for banqueting stuff; but a man that regards his health, is rather for solid food. Vain men fancy such a condition best, and would flourish in their bravery; whereas a wise Christian hath his will melted into Gods will, and thinks it best to be at his finding. God is wise, he knows whether we need food, or physic; and if we could acquiesce ⟨p. 270⟩in providence, the quarrel would soon be at an end. O, what a strange creature would man be, if he were what he could wish himself? Be content to be at Gods allowance. God knows which is the fittest pasture to put his sheep in; Sometimes a more barren ground doth well, whereas rank pasture may rot. Do I meet with such a cross? God shows me what the world is; he hath no better way to wean me, then by putting me to a step-mother. Doth God stint me in my allowance? he is now dieting me. Do I meet with losses? it is that God may keep me from being lost. Every cross wind shall at last blow me to the right port. Did we believe that condition best which God doth parcel out to us, we should cheerfully submit, and say; The lines are fallen in pleasant places.

Flesh and blood is not a competent judge. Surfeited stomacks are for banqueting stuffe; but a man that regards his health, is rather for solid food. Vaine men fancy such a condition best, and would flourish in their bravery; whereas a wise Christian hath his will melted into Gods will, and thinks it best to be at his finding. God is wise, he knowes whether we need food, or physick; and if wee could acquiesce