Numbers 21

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXI.—Continued courage and dependance upon God are highly necessary, that at last we may prove more than conquerors. Religious vows, when properly conducted, are likewise sometimes profitable. But upon what inconsiderate temptations, prevailing lusts, formerly punished, again break forth! Often the long continuance of God’s mercies with men render them cheap in their eyes. But let us remember it is hazardous to offend God, who hath so many instruments of vengeance at his beck; and that sufferings for sin should lead us to repentance for it; especially since God is so ready to forgive the penitent, and to turn away his wrath. But, O unspeakable mercy! as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so Jesus Christ, the 21 Son of man was lifted up on a cross, and is now lifted up in the gospel, for the cure of all those deadly maladies contracted from the seduction of the old serpent the devil—when we look to him by faith! In all our wanderings on earth God can grant us wells of comfort, and fill our mouths with his praise; he can be-stow noted victories in favour of his people, even on this side death. And what easy work it is to conquer the strongest enemies when God’s time is come, and he performs all things for us! Yet in these victories let me observe, that they, who intend mischief to others, often fall into the pit which themselves have digged; that worldly possessions are changeable and frail; and especially that ill-gotten gain is seldom long enjoyed!S S