The Carver for Himself

‘’^He that will be Ms qw7i carver seldom carveth out a good portion to himself. Wilful spirits who luoiildfain be their own providence intreiich upon Gods prerogative, and take the work out of his hands J and, therefore, no wonder if their wisdom be tu?’ned into folly.” It is God’s business to regulate providence, and when we attempt it we cause confusion and trouble. Not only does the carver for himself get a poor portion, but he frequently cuts his fingers, and spoils his clothes by spilling the contents of the dish. Israel went into Canaan well enough when the Lord led the way; but when the people before the set time presumed to go up of their own head, they brought defeat upon themselves. It is never well either to run before the cloud, or to stay behind it: in either case we may expect to fall under clouds of another sort, which will darken our way and becloud our peace.

Cannot we trust the Lord with his own business? Can we supplement infallible wisdom, or improve upon infinite goodness? Have we not enough to do if we earnestly endeavour to obey our Lord? Do we want to be rulers? Are we tired of being disciples and followers? Why do we strain after things too high for us, intruding into spheres which belong to God alone?

My soul, stand thou still, and see the salvation of God! He is at the helm, and is well able to pilot the vessel. Keep thy hand off the tiller. Down with thee, unbelief, what hast thou to do while God himself provides for his people?