Address —
1. Those who experience no overwhelming trou- bles—
[However serene the sky at present be, no man knows how soon a storm may arise. But supposing our voyage through hfe be ever so favourable, it must come to an end : and what shall we do in the hour of death without an interest in Christ ? Above all, what must become cf us, if we be not fixed upon that Rock at the day of judgment ? Let us then improve our tranquil hours in securing an establishment on Christ Jesus ; that, however suddenly calamities may come, or death may summon us into the presence of our God, we may be found standing immovably on the Rock of ages. Then, like Noah, shall we rejoice in God's favour, when thoughtless myriads shall be overwhelmed in the deluge of his wrath.]
2. Those who are bowed down under trouble —
[You are but too apt to carry your complaints to men, instead of spreading them before God. What wonder then you find no deliverance ? Has not David told you, that this was his very experience ; and that nothing but the use of this remedy afforded him relief"? Chide then, and resist, your backwardness to prayer. Lay the blame, not on God, who is willing to impart help, but on yourselves, who are unwilling to implore it. Your troubles are sent on purpose to drive you to the Saviour, whom, in a time of prosperity, you are too prone to neglect : and if you suffer them to produce that effect, you shall soon number them amongst your richest blessings.]
" Ps. xxxii. 3 — 5.