Hebrews 13:5 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Be content with such things as ye have:— The reason here given why there should be no discontent at the various cross accidents of life is, for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee; which was an assurance given to Joshua. See Deuteronomy 31:8. Joshua 1:5. The apostle had just before proved, that the kingdom set up by Christ was not to be shaken; therefore, in the language spoken to Joshua, it was true that God would never leave it, nor forsake it, till all was fulfilled. The consequence of which is, that his providence extends to every member of his kingdom; that every one may depend upon it; and every one may say with the Psalmist, The Lord is my helper. And as to the particular topic for contentedness in the present station, this is founded on the nature of God, and the government of the world; but above all, on themerit and intercession of Christ, and his mediatorial reign over the universe, for the church which is his body: and the words spoken to Joshua are applicable to all the faithful children of God, That we ought to cast all our care upon him, who is sufficient to guard us from all harm; or, if we do suffer here, can fully recompense us hereafter. The application of a particular promise to such general purposes, opens a noble hint for the improvement of the Old Testament, upon this great and solid principle, That God, who is no respecter of persons, intends that expressions of his favour to this or that eminently good man, should be used for the encouragement of all others of the like character.