ABSTRACT
In the first place, it may be ascribed an event to a moral purpose of the Deity, just so far as the Bible connects that event with that purpose. In the inspired record of his transactions it may be learnt somewhat with regard to the motives which prompt them. In the second place, it may be ascribed an event to a moral purpose of the Deity, just so far forth as that purpose is normally connected with that event by the established and appropriate tendencies of things. In the third place, when any event strikingly coincides with any well-known plan of God, it may be ascribed that event to his intention to fulfil that plan. There are many events fitted to nurture the spirit of modest acquiescence in his sovereign pleasure. He causes these events, and, as we are authorized to believe, he causes them in subservience to the plan which they are adapted to fill out.
