The Gracious Sovereignty of God

"It is now many years since the apostate angles made a question, whether their will or the will of their Creator should be done; and since that time, froward mankind hath always in that same suit of law, compeared to plead with them against God, in daily repining against His will. But the Lord being both party and judge, hath obtained a decreet, and saith, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure' (Isa. xlvi. 10). It is then best for us, in the obedience of faith, and in a holy submission, to give that to God which the law of His almighty and just power will have of us. Therefore, Madam, your Lord willeth you, in all states of life, to say, 'Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven:" and herein shall ye have comfort, that He, who seeth perfectly through all your evils, and knoweth the frame and constitution of your nature, and what is most healthful for your soul, holdeth every cup of affliction to your head, with His own gracious hand.'

From the Letters of Samuel Rutherford