Jeremiah 22

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXII.—Ministers must be faithful and bold, and tell kings and courtiers of their sins, dangers, and duties, as well as others. It is only in keeping God’s commandments that we can expect a great reward. He has always instruments duly prepared for destructive work as well as for building up. And men’s sins are sometimes so plainly marked in their judgments that even heathens can justify his procedure, for he never casts them off till they first cast off him. Dying saints may be justly envied, whilst living sinners are to be pitied. No education or example can change men’s hearts: but it is a terrible aggravation of men’s wickedness that it is contrary to their pious education. Proud and mischievous rebellion against God entails upon multitudes the most lasting shame and disgrace; nay, distinguished pride is generally followed by distinguished dishonour and misery, either in life or in death. It is extremely foolish to set our hearts upon that which can be easily taken from us, or made a curse to us. And none are more apt to appear mean, or to pretend piety under adversity, than those who boast highly amidst prosperity. It were well if what we suffer would bring us to a serious repentance. Sometimes persons are exalted even to thrones, that God may pour the more public and lasting disgrace upon them and theirs. Nor need the greatest to be confident, since they know not what debasement and misery await them and their seed. But it is hard to awaken sinners, lost in sensuality and earthly mindedness. And how sovereign is God in making men fruitful or childless, honoured or dishonoured, as he thinks fit! 3