To be thankfull to God as well in Adversity as Pro∣sperity. [ 886]
THemistocles was wont to tell his ingratefull Country-men the Athenians, that they used him like a shady Tree, under which when a storm happened, they would run and take shelter; but when the storm was over, they would be ready to cut it down and burn it: When there were any Tumults or uproares in the Com∣mon-wealth, who but Themistocles? all the People would flock to Themistocles for succour; but when there was a calm in the State, and all things at peace through his good advice and industry, then who more base? Who more contemptible then poor Themistocles? And is not this the case of many at this day? they will pray un∣to God in time of Adversity, but they will not praise God in time of Prosperity, While the corn is growing, the hedge is well fenced, but when it is in'd, the fields are thrown open; when they stand in need of any blessings, then they are all upon the spur, somewhat carefull to please God; but when they have caught what they fished for, then they let the reyns slack, & are not so forward in the ways of obedience; so that it is a great blessing of God that we are kept in want of one blessing or other, were it otherwise, he were likely to have but a little of our company.