MM. XXXII. OR REMEDIES AGAffIST FEAR. 29 pointed place ? Remember the disciples in the midst of the storm, and the language of Jesus walking upon the water, " It is I, be not afraid," Mat. xiv. 27. Or if the public commotions of the world awakenyour fears, read the name and presence of God, even your God, in the xlvi. Psalm, and rejoice and stand firm amidst the tumult and shaking of the nations. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will notfear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be cast into the midst of the sea; verses _1, 2. The heathen raged, thekingdoms were moved :. He utteredhis voice, the earth melted; verse 6. The Lord of hosts is with us, the Godof Jacob is our re- Age ; verse 11. Selah. Or perhaps more particular and personal dangers and afflictions threaten your good name, your estate, your flesh, your life. Well, the name of God in his presence is an universal spring of comfort and courage, a wide - spreading shield against every mischief. - Are you terrified at the thoughts of personal reproach and slander, know that the tongues of men are within the reach of the hand of God, and he can cast a bridle ofre- straint upon them, but if he take off that restraint, and leave them to their own perverseness-and rage, learn to say as good David, when Shimei cursed him ; the hand of the Lord is in it, God hathgiven him a loose to curse me: And thus sweetly compose yourselves to an acquiescence in the providential will of your heavenly Father. Is poverty and want the thing you dread ? But is not God your heavenly Father ? And can you not trust him to provide for his children ? Will he give the young ra- vens their food; when they cry, and will he not feed his sons and his daughters ? It is true you may be re- duced to bread and water, and brought down to the very lowest circumstances, and you must submit to his will : God will feed your nature, though he will not feed your, pride. Are you affrighted at the thoughts of sickness and pain ? Remember diseases are the servants of our Lord * That is an excellent treatise which Mr. Flavel has published against sinful fear, especially in times of public danger and persecution : And his littlebook of keeping the heart, has some valuable chapters in it, containing rich preservatives against this weakness of the mind.
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