“Temporary afflictions may break over the heads of Christ’s people, but the nature of the covenant is such that they cannot be unsafe. The very hairs of their heads are all numbered. To destroy them, would be to frustrate the divine plan. They are the objects of an everlasting love. This comfort, therefore, may be taken by the humblest believer, from his connection with a covenant which is well ordered in all things and sure. When days are dark, let the soul turn itself to him who dwelleth in Zion, and who can never forget her.” — James W. Alexander, “God’s Everlasting Mercy a Source of Consolation” in Consolation: In Discourses on Select Topics, Addressed to the Suffering People of God (1852, 1864), p. 31