The providence of God is to be acknowledged in the comfortable meeting of relations and friends

The providence of God is to be acknowledged in the comfortable meeting of relations and friends

Matthew Henry, a renowned theologian and commentator, believed strongly in the providence of God and the importance of acknowledging it in all aspects of life, including the comfortable meeting of relations and friends. In his writings and sermons, Henry emphasized the idea that God's hand is at work in every detail of our lives, guiding and directing us towards His purposes and plans.

When it comes to the comfortable meeting of relations and friends, Henry saw these gatherings as opportunities to give thanks and praise to God for the blessings of companionship and fellowship. He believed that these relationships were not merely coincidental or random, but rather ordained by God for our mutual benefit and edification. In his commentary on the book of Psalms, Henry writes, "It is a great mercy to have relations and friends, and it is a token of God's favor towards us when we enjoy their company in peace and harmony."

Henry also believed that the providence of God could be seen in the way that relationships are formed and maintained. He saw God's hand at work in bringing people together, creating bonds of love and friendship that are meant to be cherished and nurtured. In his commentary on the book of Proverbs, Henry writes, "It is God who brings people into our lives, and it is He who sustains those relationships through His grace and mercy."

For Henry, the comfortable meeting of relations and friends was not just a social occasion, but a spiritual one as well. He believed that these gatherings were opportunities for mutual encouragement, support, and growth in faith. In his sermons, Henry often spoke about the importance of building each other up in love and unity, and he saw these relationships as a means of fulfilling God's command to love one another.