2 Samuel 7

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. VII.—Gracious souls are never weary of working for the Lord; nor can they, with pleasure, enjoy their own conveniences while his ordinances are in distress. It is good to strengthen the hands of such as have at heart to build up the church of God: but all our success depends on God’s presence and assistance. Even prophets may be too rush, they are no further infallible than as inspired by the Holy Ghost. God may approve a work, and yet not the doing of it by a particular person. Nay, he may accept his purpose, and yet not allow him to execute it. All true honour and happiness come from God. Yet the good purposes of ministers, magistrates, and parents, sometimes entail upon churches, nations, and families, the most remarkable mercies. But how great things God hath laid up for them that fear him! How abundant, free, sovereign, and lasting, are the blessings of his covenant! Yea, pleasant, fervent, and successful, are those supplications now, which are animated by, and do reduplicate upon, the promises of God impressed on our heart; particularly those respecting Jesus Christ and his grace. Let us then boldly ask what God hath promised. Let us never stagger at the greatness of the mercy, but pray in faith, nothing doubting. Let it be our constant desire that God in all things may be glorified. If we find in our hearts to pray, God will not fail to hear and answer. 39 41