1 Chronicles 12

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XII.—The Lord can easily bow the hearts of men, and turn them whithersoever he pleases, to accomplish his promises. And, when we are in the way to Jesus and our duty, no high-swelled Jordans of difficulty ought to hinder or discourage us. Swiftly ought we to flee from evil, and boldly to maintain the cause of truth. Such as have once been endangered by false friends had need to be cautious. And with great prudence, and the kindest protection, should great men receive and entertain those who come to their help in the time of distress. With prudent earnestness ought we to join those whom the Lord plainly favours, helps, and protects; and much more to join with Jesus Christ in whom his soul delights, and who exalts all his servants to high and eternal honours. How often God raises up help for his people in the very moments in which they most need it! And hopeful is the state of a kingdom when kings ascend their throne, to the universal satisfaction of their subjects, especially the most pious and prudent. Thus may the nations quickly flock to Jesus, when he takes to himself his great power and reigns! May all the ends of the earth remember, and turn to the Lord;—and the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ!