'Voices From The Past' Vol. 1 — December 22

The hand of providence preserves the saints from the snares and temptations of sin. That providence wards off many a dreadful stroke of temptation and puts away mortal thrusts of the enemy, is a truth as evident as the sun is shining. There is so much corruption remaining in good men that they would certainly plunge themselves under much more guilt if providence did not take greater care for them than they do for themselves. Even though they take great care in keeping themselves and daily watch their hearts and ways, yet such is the deceitfulness of sin, that if providence did not lay road blocks in the way, sin would entangle and defile them more frequently than it does. O consider and admire this providence, you saints! How often have your corrupt natures impetuously hurried you on toward sin, so that all the inherent grace you had could not withstand its force, if providence had not prevented it in some way! How near have you been brought to the brink of sin, and yet you were saved by a merciful hand of providence! (Psa. 73). O merciful providence that steps in so opportunely! How woeful would your case be if the Lord had not mercifully saved you from thousands of temptations! I tell you, you cannot estimate the mercies you possess by means of such providences. Is your reputation sweet and your conscience peaceful? These two mercies are as dear to you as your own two eyes. Surely you owe them, if not wholly, yet in great measure, to the aid and assistance of providence all along the way in this dangerous tempting world. We must thankfully own God's providence in this, and not impute our escape as a mere accident, or the result of our own watchfulness and wisdom. On the other hand, do not tempt providence by trusting in it alone.

Devotional Readings taken from Puritan Devotional Readings 'Voices From The Past Vol.1.'
John Flavel, Works, IV:398-402
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