2 Kings 15

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XV.—Formality in religion, and imperfections in reformation, continue often from generation to generation: and even the best of periods are marked with some token of the Lord’s displeasure. He abuses them that walk in pride; and by one stroke of disease can make the mightiest monarchs loathsome to others, and a burden to themselves; and, after all their glory, bring them with shame to the grave. For the transgression of a land, how many are the princes thereof! But few traitors and murderers die in their beds. Wicked men are generally fond of power; and in the worst of times will push themselves into it by perjury and murder, and to the perpetual hazard of their own life. And often the most cruel are the most cowardly. But what a mercy is it to enjoy religion, liberty, peace, and safety, under a mild government! By civil wars, murders of princes, and by occasional ravages, God hurrens wicked nations into lasting ruin. And often they, who were most forward in securing their settlements, share with the first in desolating judgments. And no less frequently godly magistrates and ministers are taken away from the evil to come, just when the storm is gathering against hypocritical professors