Page:On the providence of God in the government of the world.pdf/13

 God's Love to the righteous  the wicked, if he take notice and be concerned  which happens.

The better to judge of this supposition, let two things be considered. . That by the outward estate of men we know very little of their present grief or pleasure, we cannot infer from thence which is the good and which is the bad condition.

By the outward estate of men we know very little of their present grief or pleasure. That is a secret thing and depends upon hidden causes, most of all upon those prevailing affections, that take up and employ their thoughts.

It is visible who hath lands and great houses, and who hath none, who is followed by a long train and receives the respects and the complements, and who may go whether he will without any notice; but which of these two enjoys himself best, and lives most at ease, is still a question, which they, who resolve by what they see, are likely to be mistaken in their resolution, to misplace their envy and pity, to envy the men that are miserable in all their great pomp and state, and to pity them who are happy in their obscurity; to judge unrighteous judgment, because they judge by outward appearance.

Scripture and reason, and experience teach us, that good men have the most true delight, both in prosperity and affliction; 'that they have great peace, who love God's law, and nothing can offend them,' Psal. cxix. 165.

In prosperity there are many things contribute to improve the joy of the good: A quiet conscience, trust in God, moderation, humility, 'Prudence and temperance, and justice and fortitude which are such things that men can have nothing more profitable in their life,' Wisd. viii. 7.

In ordinary calamity, such as sickness, losses, &c. the have great relief and ease from their repentance and prayers, their endeavour to make a benefit of  cross, and humble resignation and submission to God,  their belief concerning the wisdom and goodness of  Providence; but if they be persecuted for righteousness sake; if the apostles and martyrs suffer for the con-