Doct. 2. True and solid piety is the only way to attaine unto these blessings.
Reas. 1. Because God hath promised it to the Godly alone. 2. Because piety in its owne nature leadeth to God, and joynes us with God, who is the fountaine of all good. 3. Because piety it selfe hath that perfection joyned with it, namely, peace of conscience and sound consolation, which is a great part of happinesse. Vse. 1. This may serve to convince those of folly and madnesse, that would be happy, but will not be Godly. 2. To direct us, to kindle in our hearts an earnest endeavour to be godly by the expectation of this happinesse, and to gaine unto our selves an assurance of it. Doct. 3. The providence of God alone, makes for the furtherance of this piety, and the confirmation of this happinesse.
This is gathered from v. 12.
Reas. 1. Because God by his providence doth fulfill and perfect all his promises. 2. Because the same providence lookes over and takes care for the particular necessities of the Godly. 3. Because he takes speciall notice of all their desires and prayers, as it is in the text. Use. This may serve to exhort us, to build up our selves in a true and lively faith of this providence.
Verse. 13. And who is he that will harme you, if ye be followers of that which is Good?
Verse. 14. But and if ye suffer any thing for righteousnesse sake, happy are ye, and be not afraid of their terrour, neither be troubled.
Verse. 15. But sanctifie the Lord God in your hearts, and bee ready alwayes to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekenesse and feare, having a good conscience:
Verse. 16. That whereas they speake evill of you, as of evill doers, they may be a shamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
