The Religious Monitor, or Evangelical Repository, Vol. 3: Devoted to the Principles of the Reformation, as Set Forth in the Formul

Excerpt from The Religious Monitor, or Evangelical Repository, Vol. 3: Devoted to the Principles of the Reformation, as Set Forth in the Formularies of the Westminster Divines, and of the Churches in Holland

Providence is the chariot of state in which God rides in the government of the universe. It comprises two grand branches, the sustentation and government of all creatures, and of all their actions. He upholdeth all things by the word of his power, and by him all things consist. If he suspended his support, they would cease to operate and exist. He also infallibly directs all, so that they, intentionally or unintentionally, accomplish his pleasure. He hath prepared his throne in heaven, am his king dom ruleth over al Both of these acts are conversant about the creatures according to their respective natures. He supports and governs inanimate and irrational creatures, by continuing their being and fagulties, and presenting suitable objects to act on the one, and to elicit the instincts of the other. Rational creatures he governs bymotives, prescribing to them laws enfor ced by rewar and penalties. Both of these branches of provi dence are managed by him, immediately or mediately. We have an instance of both, Hos. Ii. 21, 22. I will hear the heavens, and the heavens shall bear the earth, and the earth shall hear the corn, and the wine, and the oil, and they shall hear Jezreel. If God did not hear the heavens ‘by imparting virtue to them, they could not hear the earth, the earth could not hear the corn, the wine, and the oil, and these could not hear J ezreel. The first link of the mighty concatenation of events is connected with the throne of God; if severed from it, the whole Would fall. His hand isthe great and potent prime mover, which sets, and keeps in motion all the wheels-of the universe. Remove it, and all motion and activity would instantly be suspended.

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