2 Samuel 10

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. X.—It is good to return a kindness even to the wicked, and to mourn with the afflicted. Wicked princes are ordinarily attended by wicked flatterers. Base minds are always the most suspicious: and evil suspicions hurry men into the most rash and ruinous conduct. It is exceedingly criminal to violate the person of an ambassador. But little pleasure, profit, or honour, must be expected from courting or complimenting the inveterate enemies of God and his people. Calumny often drives men into obscurity; but patience will gradually wear off the reproach. War had need to be made with good advice. No numbers will be found able to support those who fight against God.—Nor is it unwieldy strength, but a prudent disposition and application of forces, that in battle usually prevails. Great dangers call for the greater fortitude.—Love of God, and of their country, makes the bravest soldiers. Mutual assistance is a duty incumbent in every difficulty; and dependance upon God, in the use of the means, is the sure way to be crowned with success. What a mercy is it that inclement winters interrupt the grievous trade of war, and force the combatants to an unwilling rest! But sinners, by their obstinate opposition to Christ and his cause, often bring upon themselves redoubled destruction. It is happy if they submit before they are totally ruined.—Meanwhile, let mankind beware of abusing Jesus’ ministers and messages of grace; for the inflamed vengeance of Almighty God awaits such wickedness as its just reward. 3