Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
All these are most certain and solemn truths. The latter verse should always be in the believer's recollection. We are so apt to look to second causes, that we frequently overlook the first great, and predisposing cause of all. Whereas did we but keep in remembrance what we cannot but know, that the hearts of all men are in the Lord's disposal, neither the frowns nor smiles of men would have anymore than their proper effect. In proof of this, Reader, pray read Joseph's faith on this occasion: Genesis 45:4-8. And then read the church's account to the same: Psalms 105:25. And then read the words of a greater than all, and upon the greatest of all occasions: John 19:10-11.