1 Kings 18

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XVIII.—God can turn a fruitful land into barrenness for the sins of them that dwell therein: but judgments, instead of humbling, enrage the impenitent. When persecutors cannot wreck their malice and fury on God, they do it upon his servants. But what a mercy is it that God, even in wicked courts, hath those who fear him and protect his ministers. It is very honourable when saints are so faithful in relative duties, that such who hate their religion cannot but show them distinguished regard; and when persons in high station lay out their influence or wealth for the support of God’s faithful ministers and people. But God often, when his people’s condition is seemingly desperate, raises up helpers where they could be least expected. It is proper that saints be cautious in dealing with enraged persecutors: but sometimes they are apt to overdo in their caution. The faithful servants of Christ are often calumniated as enemies to the state; and, even when they bring the best of tidings, the impenitent brand them as their troublers. But they, who by their sins provoke God against a nation, are the real troublers of it, and ought faithfully to be told it. God can overrule the hearts of his most inveterate enemies, and make them to grant what his servants demand for his honour. Unsettled notions of religion lead to unsound practices: and there can be no communion betwixt Christ and Belial. Let us then never in inclination, profession, or practice, halt between God and his rivals. Nor must the ministers of Christ be discouraged when they see multitudes against them: it is enough that God is on their side. He can take the wise in their own craftiness, and turn the counsel of the froward headlong; and the hope of the hypocrite parishes. It is a poor religion that consists chiefly in externals; and a devilish one that requires inhuman severities. Nothing, neither disappointment nor public shame, will undeceive those whom God hath given up to strong delusions. But how condescending was it in God to put his own pre-eminence, or rather Godhead, to the trial! Graciously he answers the fervent prayers of his zealous servants; and gloriously he overcomes when he is judged. Dreadful is the ruin of such as obstinately dispute his supremacy. But, when false prophets and evil ministers are removed from a land, God will return and refresh it. Secret, importunate, and repeated prayers must indeed be used to draw down the promised blessings; and great mercies may arise from the very smallest beginnings. But distinguished humility and dependence upon an all-strengthening God ought to attend upon, and flow from, the receipt of such most distinguishing honours