[3.] Thirdly, The fall or miscarriage of the saints at such times is of more than ordinary disadvantage, not only to others—for if they can be prevailed with to lay aside their work, or to neglect the improvement of their favours, others are deprived of the benefit and help that might be expected from them—but also to themselves. A prevailing temptation doth more than ordinarily prejudice them at such times. The greatness of the disappointment under special service, the unworthy neglect and unanswerableness to special favours, are extraordinary provocations, and produce more than ordinary chastisements, as we see in Jonah’s affliction, and the spouse’s desertion.
(2.) Secondly, As we have seen the reason of Satan’s keenness in taking those opportunities, so may we consider the reasons of God’s permission, which are these:—
[1.] First, Temptations at such seasons are permitted for more eminent trial of the upright. On this account was Job tempted.
[2.] Secondly, For an increase of diligence, humility, and watchfulness. If these privileges and mercies will not discourage Satan, what will? And if Satan so openly malign such enjoyments, we may be awakened to hold them faster and set a double guard upon them.
[3.] Thirdly, For a plentiful furniture of experience. Temptation is the shop of experience. Luther was so great a gainer by this, that he became able so to speak to the consciences and conditions of his hearers, that the thoughts of their hearts were manifested by his speaking, as if he had had an intelligencer in their own bosoms. Hence did he commend prayer, meditation, and temptation as necessary requisites for the accomplishment of a minister.
Applic. This may administer matter of counsel to us in both cases aforementioned, if we be put upon eminent employments or receive eminent favours.
1. First, We must not be so secure as to think Satan will be asleep that while, or that we are beyond danger. While we are receiving kindnesses, he is devising plots and laying snares. With privileges and mercies expect exercises and hazards.
2. Secondly, in particular, We may receive something of advice from this consideration in reference to both cases.
(1.) If God is about to employ us in any service,
[1.] We have little need to be confident of our abilities or performance, when we know that temptations wait for us.