See here what a great difference there is between the condition and
temper of some and others of the children of men. 1. Some are much in
affliction, and of a sorrowful spirit, and all their days are evil
days, like those of old age, and days of which they say they have no
pleasure in them. They eat in darkness (Eccl. v. 17) and never eat with
pleasure, Job xxi. 25. How many are the afflictions of the afflicted in
this world! Such are not to be censured or despised, but pitied and
prayed for, succoured and comforted. It might have been our own lot, or
may be yet, merry as we are at present. 2. Others enjoy great
prosperity and are of a cheerful spirit; and they have not only good
days, but have a continual feast; and if in the abundance of all things
they serve God with gladness of heart, and it is oil to the wheels of
their obedience (all this, and heaven too), then they serve a good
Master. But let not such feast without fear; a sudden change may come;
therefore rejoice with trembling.