1 Samuel 10

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. X.—God should be always viewed as the author of all our promotions; and the tokens for good, which he gives in his providence carefully observed. He works many wonderful changes on the heart, as well as on the station. Sudden changes indeed are not always to be trusted. We may get a new tongue, new company, new stations, and new manners, and yet want the new heart. It is not prudent to be forward in proclaiming our own honours, or in rushing on great works; but to wait till the Lord, by his word and providence, clear up our way; thus will our path be secure and happy. It is not enough that we obtain the things which we desire: we should consider whether we get them in love or in wrath; whether in answer to the cravings of our lust, or in fulfilment of the gracious promises of God. In all elections to government, in church or state, God’s direction should be earnestly consulted and attended to. If the Lord call to important work, no meanness of spirit, or earthly consideration, should ever make us to evade it. He who gives the call will give furniture for the work. Let the directions of God’s word be our constant rule: and then neither weakness in ourselves, nor contempt in others, should dismay or provoke us in the way of duty. And let us always remember that patience and forbearance often heal those breaches which would otherwise have been irreparable