from The Mystery of Providence by John Flavel

from The Mystery of Providence by John Flavel--Puritan Paperbacks published by The Banner of Truth Trust
Flavel writes: "If the concerns of God's people are not governed by a special Providence, how is it that the most apt and powerful means employed to destroy them are rendered ineffectual, while weak, contemptible means employed for their defense and comfort are crowned with success?
This could never be if things were wholly swayed by the course of nature.  If we judge by that rule, we must conclude that the more apt and powerful the means are, the more successful and prosperous they must needs be; and where they are inept, weak, and contemptible, nothing can be expected of them.  Thus reason lays it, according to the laws of nature, but Providence crosses its hands, as Jacob did in blessing the sons of Joseph, and orders quite contrary issues and events." pages 32-33