however, the stronger our faith, the more speedy and effectual, for the most part, will our deliverances be.]
4. He is as able to save us out of the greatest diffi- culties as from the least —
[We are ever prone to limit him in the exercise of his goodness; nor are even the most signal manifestations of his power sufficient to correct this propensity™: but he who created and upholds all things can overrule them as he pleases; and his promises to his people are fully commensurate with their wants. Let us then go to him under our most pressing difficulties, and rest assured, that he is both able and willing to save us to the uttermost".]
Address —
1. To the disobedient —
[God has been pleased to bestow on man the gift of reason, and to leave him a free agent in all which he does. Alas! how vilely do the generality abuse this transcendent mercy ! They are more regardless of the divine command than even winds and waves. And is this the end for which God has so distinguished us? Is the privilege of volition granted us to encourage our revolt? Is it not rather, that our obedience to God may be a rational service? Let the disobedient stand amazed at their impiety. Let them wonder that the Divine forbearance is so long exercised towards them. Surely they have abundant need to offer that petition — °. O that they may be more impressed with their danger than ever the disciples were !]
2. To those who truly endeavour to serve the Lord Christ—
[All seasons are not alike in the spiritual, any more than in the natural, world. The greatest difficulties may encompass you, when you have the clearest evidence that you are in the way of duty. But know that your Lord is an all-sufficient, ever-present help. Do not then shun the path of duty because of any trial that may beset you. In the midst of all, possess your souls in faith and patience ; and let the triumphant words of former saints be your song — p. Thus shall you have richer discoveries of your Saviour's care and love, and from personal experience attest the truth of that poetical description — "i.]
m Ps. Ixxviii. 19, 20. " Heb. vii. 25. ° ver. 25.
P Ps. xlvi. 1—3, 5. 1 Ps. cvii. 23— -JO.