AFFLICTIONS. 321 tare, nothing befalls them grievous in the world. Thus it is with them : "And surely, had I an interest in his grace, in pardon, the God of Israel would not thus pur- sue a flea in the mountains, nor set himself in battle- array against a leaf driven to and fro with the wind ; he would spare me a little, and let me alone for à moment; but as things are with me, I fear my way is hid from the Lord, and my judgment is passed over from my God." Such thoughts perplex the minds of men, and keep them from partaking of that strong consolation which God is abundantly willing they should receive, by a comfortable persuasion of a blessed interest in his forgiveness. This was the very case of David ; or at least these outward troubles were a special part of those depths, out of which he cried for relief, by a sense of pardon, grace, and redemption with God. I answer to these 'complaints, That so many excellent things are spoken concerning the benefits of afflictions, such blessed ends are assigned to them, which to many have been fulfilled, that a man unacquainted with the effects by which they are often attended would think it impossible any one should be shaken as to the love and favor of God on their account. But, the apostle tells us that no afflictions are joyous at present, but grievous; and while Job made, in the close of his trials, the solemn profession that it was good for him that he had been afflicted, yet we know how he was distressed under them. There are therefore various accidental things which accompany great afflictions, that seem to exempt them from the common rule, and the promise of love and grace : as, 144 ti
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