is more commonly the
state of the wicked. The righteous have their trials here; and this
kind of trial, [prosperity] hath more often seduced them, than its
opposite. David and Solomon were sad examples of the baleful effects
of power and greatness, riches and honor; but they were brought back
to God and duty by the rod of disappointment;--by the correctings of
affliction.

Adversity is not always productive of good. Some repine at the orders
of providence--at their lot in the world. Trials sour their minds and
render them morose and peevish. We read of some who "blaspheme the God
of heaven" because of their sufferings. These are enemies of God, and
their sufferings here, are a prelude to greater sufferings hereafter.
The case is different with those who have Christ's spirit; they see a
providence in whatever they meet with here; refer themselves to him
who rules over all to choose for them, and order out their changes,
not doubting but his grace will be sufficient for them, and all work
for their good.

We are sure that God orders wisely. The station then, which he assigns
to us, is most suitable for us; the comforts and corrections which he
dispenses, most fit and proper. If wise for ourselves we would not
wish for alterations in them. We shall only be concerned to follow
where God leads, and only pray that he will not leave us, but guide us
to his kingdom.

Let us bring home these considerations, and inquire how we are
affected by God's dealings with us, and what temper we maintain? We
have comforts and corrections. Do we see the hand of God in them;
acknowledge the comforts to be undeserved, and the corrections less
than our demerits? Do we bless God for the former, and humble
ourselves under the latter? Or do the former render us forgetful of
God, and proud and scornful towards men? Do the latter humble and
abase us; keep us mindful that this is not our rest, and quicken our
preparations for that world where all tears will he wiped away from
our eyes? Or do they cause us to murmur and repine, as though we
suffered unjustly?

Both mercies and afflictions will be a favor of life or death,
according to the effect which they have upon us, and the temper and
disposition they produce in us. If mercies increase our love to God,
and concern to honor him, then are they mercies indeed. So are
afflictions, if they humble us and quicken us in the way of duty; but
if their effect is different they increase our guilt, and