'...all providences are overruled and ordered for good according to that blessed promise (Rom. 8.28); not only things that are good in themselves, as ordinances, graces, duties and mercies, but things that are evil in themselves, as temptations, afflictions, and even their sins and corruptions, shall turn in the issue to their advantage and benefit. For though sin is so intrinsically and formally evil in its own nature, then in itself it is not capable of sanctification, yet out of this worst of evils God can work good to His people. And though He never makes sin the instrument of good, yet His providence may make it the occasion of good to his people, so that spiritual benefits may, by the wise overruling of Providence, be occasioned by it.'
John Flavel, The Mystery of Providence, p.198.
