scudderpage251

excellent ends in all this, even in respect of them, and for their good; namely, for trial of their graces, for prevention of sin, and to remove sin, by bringing them to repentance, Rom. vii. 12, that they might be made partakers of his holiness, Heb. xii. 10. Besides, herein he does much glorify himself, showing that he is wonderful in counsel, excellent in working, Isa. xxviii. 29; causing the affliction to work for his glory, in his people's good; yea, you may learn by your own experience, that the child of God in his infirmity and passion, when he is under the rod, may let go his hold of God; yet, that God, in his love and compassion towards his people, will hold him fast by his right hand, and will not leave him; but will guide him with his counsel, until he receive him into glory, Psa. lxxiii. 23, 24. This is God's method with his children; wherefore none from hence has cause to question God's love, but rather to conclude it.

(2.) Fears of the want of grace, on account of worldly prosperity.

There are others, and it may be the same, when the tide of affection is turned, who, because they prosper, and are not in trouble as other men, conceive that God does not love them. For it is said, As many as he loves, he rebukes and chastens, Rev. iii. 19, and he chastens every son whom he receives, Heb. xii. 6.

See, a fearful and doubtful heart will draw matter to feed its fears and doubts out of any thing. But know, God is a wise and good Father; he knows when to strike, and when to hold his hands.

In such cases as the following, God does not usually afflict his children with his heavy rod.

First, When they are infants, babes in Christ, or, if they be grown to years, when they are spiritually weak or sick, and cannot bear correction, then, though they be froward, and deserve strokes, God does forbear, and is inclined rather to pity.

Secondly, When they are good children; that is, when they show that they would please him, by endeavouring to do what they are able, though it be with