§. 62. Of the future profits of afflictions.
A Full solution of the fore-named objection concerning the grievousnesse of af∣flictions, followeth in these words, Neverthelesse, afterwards, &c. The Greek word translated, Neverthelesse, is that little particle of opposition which is com∣monly translated, a BUT. It here implieth a discretive proposition, as if it had been thus more fully expressed, Though afflictions may for the time seeme grievous, yet afterward they will produce a quiet fruit.
By this it appears that granting one truth impeacheth not another.
Truth is not contrary to truth. There may be some seeming contradiction, but upon a through inquisition into the matter, reconciliation will soon be made betwixt truths. See more hereof Chap. 10. v. 1. §. 2.
The truth which the Apostle here standeth to, is, that afflictions are profitable. They yeeld their fruit.
The Souls of Saints are thereby made as good ground, which by plowing and harrowing, or digging and raking, is made more mellow and more fit to bring out a good cropp: As Children who by their Fathers correction have been brought from debauch'd and desperate courses, to a civill, honest and peaceable life. Of the profit of afflictions, See v. 5. §. 36.
The profit of afflictions is here referred to the time to come, in this word, b af∣terward. This doth he testifie that said, Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word, Psal. 119. 67. Take instance hereof in such as by afflictions have been brought to God, 2 Chron. 33. 13, 14. Luk. 15. 17.
Afflictions are as medicines, which have a time to work.
They bring a man to a consideration of his former course, to an examination of himself, to a finding out of his sin, to a loathing and confessing of it, to purpose, pro∣mise, and covenant to forsake it for the future.
Hereby we learn to judge our selves and others, not according to the present pain of afflictions, but to the future gaine.
If afterwards they be bettered, then hath the physick kindly wrought. God•…•… physick for the present makes the patient sick. Plowing and harrowing ground makes it for the time seeme barren: but afterwards the benefit of these and other like means ariseth. There must therefore be a patient expectation of future fruit.