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I. TAKE A BRIEF VIEW OF THE CONSOLATIONS OF GOD. Real comfort, of every kind and in every degree, is from God.

1. There are consolatory providences. There is a special providence which attends the saints.

2. The promises are full of consolation. These unfold the gracious purposes of God, and come between the decree and the execution.

3. There are many experimental consolations, which true believers enjoy.

II. WHEN MAY WE BE SAID TO MAKE LIGHT OF THESE CONSOLATIONS AND TO ACCOUNT THEM SMALL.

1. When we undervalue the blessings of salvation, by placing carnal gratifications on a level with them, or not giving them the preference.

2. These consolations are small to us when we are slothful and negligent in seeking after them.

3. When we do not so estimate the blessings of the Gospel as to find satisfaction in them, in the absence of all created good, we may be said to account them small

III. THE UNREASONABLENESS AND SINFULNESS OF TREATING THE CONSOLATIONS OF THE GOSPEL WITH NEGLECT.

1. These consolations are not small in themselves, and therefore ought not to be lightly esteemed by us. They lay a foundation for peace and comfort under the greatest afflictions.

2. To make light of them is the way to be deprived of them, either in whole or in part.

3. It is to cast contempt upon their Author. Improvement —

(1) To those eagerly pursuing riches, honours, and pleasures of the present life in the neglect of their souls.

(2) To those dissatisfied with the appointments of Providence.

(3) Let all those who, like Hannah, are of a sorrowful spirit, endeavour to recollect their former mercies, as an antidote to present despondency.

(B. Beddome, M. A.)

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KJV: Are the consolations of God small with thee? is there any secret thing with thee?

WEB: Are the consolations of God too small for you, even the word that is gentle toward you?