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 sweetly' (Wisd. viii. 1). — Example: Deliverance of the Jews through Esther.

54. What do we call this supreme care of God in preserving and governing the world?

His Divine Providence.

'''55. But if God orders and directs all things in the world, why, then, is there so much evil done? Does He will it?'''

No, God wills not the evil; but He permits it, 1. Because He has created man free; and 2. Because He knows also how to turn evil into good.

56. And if God takes care of all things, why are we subject to so many sufferings?

1. That the sinner may acknowledge the chastisement of God and mend his ways, and not perish for ever; and 2. That the just man may be more and more purified, and more abound in merits, and thus obtain a greater reward in Heaven.

57. But why does God often permit the wicked to prosper, whilst evil befalls the good?

1. Because He will not only deter the sinner from his evil ways by punishment, but will also win him by bene-