1 Samuel 19

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XIX.—What a mercy is a true and disinterested friend, who with heartiness and prudence espouses the cause of persecuted saints! Good advice, even from an inferior, deserves attention. But the oath of a common swearer, and the sudden change of a passionate man, are a bad security for one’s life. It is good always to keep close to our duty, however ill men may reward us for it. But, while we are on earth, something will ever allay the joys of our triumphs; and no kindness will cure the rankings of inveterate malice. Happy are they who trust God with their protection and deliverance! He can make the very things intended for ensnaring as the means of our relief. Women justly cleave to their husbands rather than to their parents. But how dangerous is it to begin wandering out of God’s way! One lie, or other act of sin, hardens the conscience for another. God can easily disarm the rage of the most furious, and turn persecutors into preachers and praisers. In danger let me therefore always cleave close to the Lord’s faithful ministers and people: over all the glory shall be a defence. And let me take heed lest my spiritual gifts or experiences should, like Saul’s, be merely occasional, intended for the good of others, not for my own