We see an overruling Providence at work--1. _In meting out punishment
to the wicked_ (H. E. I. 4604, 4612). 2. _In accomplishing a just
retribution._ The Assyrian is paid back by the Babylonian (Rev.
xiii. 10); Jacob's treachery is returned to him in his son's deceit
(1 Tim. v. 24; P. D. 2995). 3. _In bringing good out of evil._ Wicked
men overreach themselves; the devil is outwitted. The short-sighted
vengeance of man becomes an instrument of perfecting the higher
nature of the people of God, whom they oppress; the fire of man's
wrath is transformed into the refining fire of Divine purification
(Mal. iii. 3).--_J. Macrae Simcock._