A good man is willing to know the worst of himself, and particularly under affliction, desires to be told wherefore God contends with him and what God designs in correcting him.
Matthew HenryRead
God has wisely kept us in the dark concerning future events and reserved for himself the knowledge of them, that he may train us up in a dependence upon himself and a continued readiness for every event.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that uncertainty about the future is intentional, fostering dependence on God and readiness for whatever comes.
Matthew Henry's quote emphasizes the idea that God's wisdom lies in keeping humanity uninformed about future events. This uncertainty is designed to instill a sense of reliance on the divine and encourages individuals to remain prepared for any circumstances, fostering spiritual growth and resilience.
Themes
FaithDependenceFutureSpiritualityPreparedness
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing faith in uncertain times.
More from Matthew Henry
All quotes →There is a burden of care in getting riches; fear in keeping them; temptation in using them; guilt in abusing them; sorrow in losing them; and a burden of account at last to be given concerning them.
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To wait on God is to live a life of desire toward Him, delight in Him, dependence on Him, and devotedness to Him.
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Scriptures were written, not to satisfy our curiosity and make us astronomers, but to lead us to God, and make us saints.
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What God requires of us he himself works in us, or it is not done. He that commands faith, holiness, and love, creates them by the power of his grace going along with his word, that he may have all the praise.
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No attribute of God is more dreadful to sinners than His holiness.
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