A dispute between the woman and the powers of darkness

sorrowful to see what a state of destruction Satan had brought mankind into. For when he saw Jerusalem he wept over it, knowing they would bring destruction on themselves:—and he was come down in love for men, to suffer for their sakes, and be a judge for men of all their sorrows. Earthly pleasures were too low for him—His happiness was in heaven: And there he told his disciples their joy should be also. “ For at God’s right hand is fulness of joy, and in his presence are pleasures for evermore ” Psalm 16:11. So they cannot always be silent in heaven; neither did the Lord command them to be always silent on earth. For he commanded his gospel to be preached, and his name to run and be glorified. There might be a meaning in saying, be still, and know that I am God. But no where hath he commanded us to keep silence; nor doth any place in scripture say, that heaven, or heavenly-minded people are gloomy, or sad. Heaven is a place of perfect happiness, and all are happy that have an interest in Christ. Though sorrow may fill our minds sometimes, while we bear the infirmities of nature; yet, there is a peace of mind and conscience which the world cannot give or take away. Now wilt thou prove Satan was cast out of heaven for nothing, but being of a cheerful spirit? And that the heavens always remain in silence? Or that, “ be still, and know that I am God,” meaneth always to keep silence?

Satan’s Friend. Thou fool, what answer hast thou given, or what inquiry dost thou make? Dost thou judge that I am a liar like unto thyself?— I have told thee that was the very reason, and no other reason: And now I tell thee there is not one whit of the Spirit of God in thee; and that every wise man knoweth. Canst thou be such a fool to judge the God of Heaven ever came to thee in this familiar manner? More familiar than he ever was with the angels? Thou knowest not God, or his ways. For his footsteps are hid in the great deep,