Genesis 33

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXXIII.—It is prudent to keep out of view whatever might revive old quarrels. And humble submission powerfully mollifies offended pride. Cheerfully may we wait the issue of that which hath been committed to God. He often makes the issue of our trials much better than our fears suggested; and easily he mollifies the most fierce and froward heart! How sweet in itself, and what a token of a pious soul, is it, to view all that we have as the gifts of our gracious God! What a distinguished mercy it is to obtain the answer of our prayers, and to recover the favour of offended friends! And how inconsiderable the wants, and great the wealth, of those who have God their portion and guardian! A heart truly Christian is open and generous: but, if we have enough of our own, we ought civilly to refuse mollified obligations, though we should never be behind in acts of civility. Parents ought to manifest a most affectionate regard for their families, and especially to take care of their young ones. Perils of dangers escaped deserve a thankful remembrance; and wherever saints have houses, there God must be worshipped as their God and their glory.—O, my soul, never fear that any thing is too hard for the Lord; but always think, and speak, and act, as one whose God is JEHOVAH; and who follows peace with all men, and holiness! Never, therefore, let houses and booths for cattle have the preference of an altar for the Lord. We must not expect earthly enjoyments at free cost, because we have the heavenly so; but let the faith of God, as my own God, and the God of my seed, be rendered familiar to my heart and life; and then contentment, and patient expectation, will lead me cheerfully through all!