The afflictions of the godly

(Thomas Watson, "The Ten Commandments")

How do the afflictions of the godly, differ from
the afflictions of the wicked?

(1) The afflictions of the godly are but corrections;
but those on the wicked are punishments. The one
come from a Father; the other from a Judge.

(2) The afflictions of the godly are fruits of covenant
mercy. Afflictions on the wicked are effects of God's
wrath. Afflictions on the wicked are the pledge of
hell; they are like the shackling of a malefactor,
which presages his execution.

(3) The afflictions of the godly make them better;
but afflictions on the wicked make them worse. The
godly pray more; "Out of the depths I cry to you,
O Lord." Psalm 130:1. The wicked blaspheme more.
"Men were scorched with great heat—and blasphemed
the name of God." Revelation 16:9.

Affliction on the godly is like bruising spices—which
makes them give off a most sweet and fragrant aroma.
Affliction on the wicked is like pounding weeds with
a pestle—which makes them give off a foul stench.

It is a sign the affliction is sanctified, when the heart
is brought to a sweet submissive frame.