The saints everlasting rest

But methinks christians should have another palate than that of the flesh, to try and relish providences by: GOD hath given them the Spirit to subdue the flesh. And therefore I shall here give them some reasons of GOD'S dealing in their present sufferings, whereby the ⟨p. 186⟩equity and mercy therein may appear: and they shall be only such as are drawn from the reference that these afflictions have to our rest; which being a christian's happiness, and ultimate end, will direct him in judging of all estates and means.

1. Consider then, That labour and trouble are the common way to rest, both in the course of nature and of grace. Can there possibly be rest without motion and weariness? Do you not travel and toil first, and then rest afterwards? The day for labour goes first, and then the night for rest doth follow. Why should we desire the course of grace to be perverted, any more than we would do the course of nature? GOD did once dry up the sea to make a passage for his people; and once made the sun in the firmament to stand still: but must he do so always? Or as oft as we would have him? It is his established decree, That through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of heaven, Acts xiv. 22. And that if we suffer with him, we shall also be glorified with him, 2 Tim. ii. 12. And what are we, that GOD'S statutes should be reversed for our pleasure? As Bildad said to Job, Chap. xviii. 4. Shall the earth be forsaken for thee? or the rock be removed out of his place? So, must God pervert his established order for thee?