2 Kings 22

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXII.—God can easily raise up eminent patterns of piety in the most profane family. And sovereign is the display, and abundant the riches, of his grace. It bodes well when princes begin their cares with the reformation of religion. And it is extremely honourable when the most untainted honesty prevails in the management of public funds and general affairs. But how dreadful is it when the oracles of God are thrust into corners! and much more so when they are little known or regarded by those who have them daily in their hands! It is very unbecoming for great men to live ignorant of, and unconcerned about, their Bibles. For the time is at hand when their contents shall make the most careless and hardened despisers and neglecters tremble: and God’s word, when blessed by his Spirit, is quick and powerful to the piercing and conviction of men’s consciences. And, when we see the wrath of God hanging over our heads, it is full time to think how to prevent it. Such as are under deep convictions, or oppressive fears, ought to consult the Lord’s prophets. Holy men or women are the fittest to be our friends and advisers. And it is a great benefit to courts when they have heaven’s favourites at hand. How dreadful is it for a nation to be loaded with crimes which the Lord will pardon! Obstinate and wilful sinning must end in remediless and eternal misery. But it is a great mercy to have our hearts early and deeply affected with the things of God. Such as tremble under apprehensions of God’s wrath are in a fair way to escape it. And happy are those who, being at peace with God and their own conscience, are taken away before the infliction of public and awful judgments. 2