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I. THAT SEASONS OF AFFLICTION SHOULD INDUCE MEN TO SEEK AFTER GOD.

1. All men are exposed to trouble.

(1) Temporal visitations of Divine displeasure. When God visits a nation with war, famine, or pestilence, then it is a time of darkness. When families or individuals are subjected to poverty, to disappointment in their plans, hopes, etc. Happy are they who have then the God of light for their refuge.

(2) Bodily and mental afflictions may be compared to night(3) The season of temptation is a dark season (1 Peter 1:6).

(4) Declensions and backslidings lead to darkness (Revelation 2:4, 5).

(5) Death is compared to night (John 9:4).

2. It is the duty of all to inquire after God. "Where is God my Maker?"(1) A conviction that He is the source of all that is good and excellent, and that without an interest in Him the soul will be ruined forever.

(2) Investigation of His character by the light of revelation.

(3) A deep conviction of our state of alienation from Him, which induces repentance, godly sorrow, etc.

(4) A knowledge of Christ as the Mediator, the way to the Father — a cordial reception of His own terms of reconciliation, and the exercise of faith in the Redeemer's sacrifice.

(5) Frequent prayer to Him, especially in seasons of darkness, believing that in Him alone is our help found.

II. THAT GOD CAN AND WILL AFFORD RELIEF IN THE DARKEST SEASONS. "Who giveth songs in the night." He can give deliverance, grant support and consolation, and sanctify all the trials of His people, which will make them utter songs of gladness and praise.

1. It is evident from His power. "Who has an arm like God?" etc. (Psalm 66:3; Psalm 46:1, etc.; Deuteronomy 33:27). The Psalmist might well sing of His power (Psalm 21:13).

2. It is evident from His love. He loves as a father, and will defend them, and save them.

3. It is evident from His promises.

4. It is evident from what He has done. "Call to remembrance the former days."(1) He has given songs in the night of spiritual alarm (Acts 16:34).

(2) He has given songs in the time of deprivation and want (Habakkuk 3:17-19; 1 Corinthians 5:11); yet the apostles uttered songs of triumph (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

(3) He has given songs under bodily afflictions (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

(4) He has given songs in the time of persecution (Romans 8:36, 37, etc.; 2 Timothy 1:12; Matthew 5:10).

(5) He has given songs in the hour of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13; James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:6).

(6) He has given songs in the night of death (Psalm 23:4; Acts 21:13; 1 Corinthians 15:55).

III. WHY IT IS THAT SO FEW ARE INQUIRING AFTER GOD.

1. Because man naturally hates God (Romans 8:7).

2. From the want of spiritual perception (1 Corinthians 2:14).

3. Because they are intoxicated with the vain pleasures of earth.

4. Pride also prevents them (Psalm 10:4).

5. Because they are captives to Satan. They are his servants — him they obey (Ephesians 2:2).Application —

1. The happiness of those who inquire after God.

2. The present and future misery of the wicked.

3. Seek the Lord while He may be found.

(Helps for the Pulpit.)

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KJV: But none saith, Where is God my maker, who giveth songs in the night;

WEB: But none says, 'Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night,