The ornament of women. Or, A description of the true excellency of women Delivered in a sermon at the funerall of M. Elizabeth Machell, on Easter Munday being the 15. of April 1639. By Stephen Geree, minister of Gods Word at Wonnersh, neare Guildford in Surrey.

THE ORNAMENT of Women . PRO. 31.29 , 30.

Many daughters have done vertuously , but thou excellest them all .

VER. 30. Favour is deceitfull , and beauty is vaine , but a Woman that feareth the Lord she shall be praised .

THis last Chapter of the Proverbs , containes certaine singular lessons , which Lemuel , or Solomon , learn't of his loving and religious mother Bathsheba , as is gathered from the first and second verses .

Whereby we may justly confute the folly or rather blasphemy of those , Papists , and Atheists , that cannot endure Women should meddle with the Scriptures or Word of God . For if the words of a Woman were thought fit to bee made the word of God , not only by wise Solomon ; but also by the Holy Ghost , then surely Women may very well meddle with Gods holy word , that following this holy and royall example of Solomons Mother , they may instruct , at least , their child : in the old good way according to GODS Word . Ier. 6.16 .

The truth is , many women doe shame a great many men , that are ignorant , idle , or prophane , and hence they seeke to fright them from the Word of God , that they might be as bad as them , or that themselves might not seeme so bad as they be .

In the body of this Chap. we find two maine things considerable , the 1. Concerning Man , the 2. Concerning Woman .

The first , declares how a Prince or great man may , and ought to bee , a good man , from the beginning of the third unto the 10th verse .

The second shewes the praises and properties of a great and good woman especially . Her praises are set downe first and last , her properties are in the middest . Wherein wee may see her behaviour .

First , As she is a Wife , ver. 11.12 .

Secondly , The properties of a good woman . As a Mother and Mistresse of a Family , verse 13.14 . &c. to 28. In all which wee may take notice of her singular faithfulnesse and helpefulnesse , her painefulnesse and providence , her prudence and watchfulnesse , and that which seasons all her Pietie and Charity , Rare vertues in a man , much more in a woman , who is the weaker vessell . 1 Pet. 3. Her praises

As for her praise ( to come more punctually to that , because the Text is a part of it ) we may consider . First , Her rarenesse , hard to be found , intimated in the interrogation . Who can finde a vertuous woman ? That is , they are rare birds , and even almost blacke Swannes , not every where nor easie to bee found . Secondly , Her incomparablenesse , her price is farre above Rubyes or the most precious Stones . Ibid : not only above , but farre above Rubies . So much for her praise in the first place . In the second you shall finde

First , Of whom shee is praised , namely those that best knew her , to wit , her husband and child : Her children arise up and call her blessed , her husband also , and he praiseth her , ver. 28.

Secondly , The quality of her praise , Ver. 29. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 which is set downe first to be superlative , farre surmounting all other in the first verse of the Text. Many daughters have done vertuously ; but thou excellest , or goest beyond , and above them all , as the Hebrew hath it .

Secondly , Ver. 30. Comparative in the latter verse , Favour is deceitfull and beauty is vaine , or vanity it selfe : but a woman that feareth the Lord she shall be praised .

Thirdly , take notice of that for which this good woman is chiefly praised , Ibid. v. 30 to wit , for her feare of God , that is for her grace , true Religion , and piety towards God .

Lastly , The place where she should be praised , Ver. 31 even in the Gate , that is in the most publike place of concourse and meeting , for in the Gates were there publike meetings and assemblies , for rewards or punishments .

And here it is to bee observed , Continet encomium mulieris alphabetico ordine exaratum . Iun. Ibid. that all this is set downe in an extraordinary order , even Alphabetically in the Originall , both according to the order and number of the Hebrew Letters , there being just so many verses as letters , to wit , twenty two concerning this great and good woman . Which is seldome used in the Scripture : and alwayes upon speciall occasion , to signifie the choicenesse of the matter in hand , and to perswade them the rather to read , and learne those select lessons .

In the Text then wee have the praise of a Wife or Woman in print , ( as I may say ) a woman farre more worth than her waight in gold : whence the first and maine point , that I will observe shall be this .

Grace and godlinesse are the most excellent Ornaments of Women . Or thus , Obser . 1 The feare of God and true Religion make most excellent women and wives .

There is as much difference betweene a gracious Woman and one that wants grace and true Religion , Yee were sometime darkenesse but now light in the Lord . Eph. 5.8 . Vide. 1 Thes. 5.5 . as betweene the light of the Sunne and the light of the Moone and lesser Starres . While the Sunne is out of sight , the Moone makes a faire show , and the lesser stars doe shine , also till the Sun begin to show himselfe in the Horizon , then the Moone doth as it were lose all her light , looking wan and pale , and the lesse starres vanish , and appeare not at all : Rotten wood will shine in the night in the darke . So a woman that wants grace may make great show in the night amongst the lesser starres , and seeme glorious , shee may exceed others and shine much in wealth , and beauty , and comlines , yea and in morall vertues , as discretion and diligence , &c. which make a faire show in the world , 1 Ioh. 5.19 . that lies in wickednesse , and so in darkenesse ; but when a true religious woman comes in place , that is adorned with the feare of God and the graces of Gods Spirit , then the other is quite obscured and darkened , in the eyes of those that can discerne of things that differ . And that which is here spoken of women , you may likewise all along apply unto men . For grace and GODS feare make as great a difference among men as amongst women .

Hence David cals the Saints the excellent of the earth , in whom was all his delight , Psalm . 16.3 . And wise Solomon his sonne saith . The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour Prov. 12.26 . for he found by experience , ( who tried more than any man ) that all was vanity , yea vanity of vanities , that is superlatively vaine without the feare of God , The main thing that makes a man . and keeping his Commandements ; which , he said , was Col haadam ; the whole man , or the whole duty of man , Eccles. 12.13 .

This will easily appeare to a spirituall eye , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Omnis homo . Arias Mont. Totum Homints Jun. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sep. that grace and the feare of God makes the most excellent women and wives , because such as bee truely gracious excell all others in all those things that are most commended in a woman .

As first to begin with their Birth .

It is greatly esteemed in man or woman to bee nobly borne , The gracious Woman doth excell in Birth . and honourably descended , and many make a great shew , and carry themselves high , because of their great birth , and it breeds estimation in others . But now every gracious woman exceeds in her birth , Ioh. 3.3 . & 1. and 13. because borne from above , even borne anew of God , and therefore most nobly borne , yea most royally descended : It is a great matter to be mans first borne , and therefore the first borne was called the excellency of dignity , and the excellency of power , See Exod. 4.22 . Jsrael is my sonne even my first borne . Gen 49.3 . Now all those that feare God aright , and have true grace , are Gods first borne , both men and women , Heb. 12.23 . And therefore are the excellency of Gods dignity , and the excellency of his power , who is omnipotent , even El-shaddai all-sufficient , Gen. 17.1 .

Next to birth that which commends a woman is Beauty , 2. Beauty . wherewith men are much taken , and even bewitched as it were , sometimes to the losse of their wits and lives also , if they cannot obtaine . Now there is no beauty to the beauty of holinesse , which is the blessed Image of God , Ephes. 4.24 . and makes us like our Lord and Saviour , who is altogether lovelie , Cant. 5.16 . All other beauty is but blacknesse to this , which is the true beauty of every gracious woman fearing God , and which she most of all prizeth , and seekes after .

The next thing that commends a woman is favour , 3. Favour . to be well favoured is amiable in the eyes of men , yet the text here will tell you , that as Beauty is vaine , so favour is deceitfull , being compared with the feare of God . For the feare of the Lord makes us well favoured in the sight of God : this is that therefore which makes men or women excell all others who are fouly deformed , by reason of sinne and wickednesse . These are chiefe things that make a woman praise-worthy in regard of the body . Wherein you see Religion and the feare of God hath gotten the preheminence .

Now for the things that commend the soule , The godly woman excels in the inward qualities , as first in her judgement and understanding . we shall see the same difference . As first for Iudgment and understanding , A woman wanting grace may have a nimble wit , and quicke apprehension in earthly things , so that shee may bee able to discourse discreetly on such matters , but as for the best things , she must come far short of the gracious woman , as not being able to discerne of heavenly things aright , or approve the things that are excellent , as the Apostle hath it , Philippians 1.10 . Because she hath but a naiurall wit , or morall at the most , whereas the women that hath grace hath a sapernaturall understanding , Mat. 13.11 . given her of God , as all his children have . Hee reveales unto all such that which hee hides and conceales from the wise and prudent of the world . Mat. 11.25 .

A second thing that inwardly commends a woman 2. In Love . is her love . But if she be without grace , her love is little better than lust , because not set upon the right object , not upon God , nor the things of God , but on the baser things below , therefore is base in comparison of that love of excellent things , which is exceedingly sweetned and seasoned by the sanctified objects .

Herein therefore , the gracious woman goes far beyond such as want grace , because her affections are right set , Mat. 6.33 . seeking first the kingdome of God and his righteousnesse , preferring the Image of God before all outward beauty , esteeming it dung in comparison .

A third inward quality that commends man or woman is their minde and spirit , 3. In spirit . Saint Paul doth make a great difference betweene the spirit of God , and the spirit of the world . 1 Cor. 2.12 . herein she that hath grace and Gods feare , doth farre exceed all other , as Daniel did all the Presidents and Princes , because an excellent spirit was in him . So in every one truely Religious there is a more excellent spirit : even the spirit of GOD. For if any one hath not the spirit of CHRIST , hee is none of his , Rom. 8. ver. 9.

You see then how grace makes men and women excell , because it makes them , though never so meane , of a more excellent minde and spirit : And the wiser Heathen could say , Mens cujusque is est quisque . Cicere .

The mind or spirit of a man is the maine man , and they did not reckon of a man according to his riches or honours , or any outward ornament , but according to his minde or spirit . Hee that was base minded was counted a base man , though nobly borne and greatly advanced otherwayes with wealth , &c. And hee that was brave spirited was counted a brave man , though meanly descended , Great difference in regard of their actions . 1. In generall . Even as a sicke man must first bee made whole yer he can doe the deedes of a whole man , and as the blind must first have fight given him , yer he can see . Mr. Tindals Parable of the wicked Mammon p. 63. Col. 2. and of low estate in the world .

Thus much for their persons , wherein those that have grace every way exceed . Now come we to consider their actions , and we shall find no lesse difference . For first in generall , All the actions of the unregenerate are polluted with sinne , Matth. 7.18 . A good tree cannot bring forth evill fruit , neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit . Till wee be good wee cannot doe good , as the tree must be good before it can bring forth good fruit . And 't is grace and grace only , and the feare of God that makes us good before God , All the pruning , dressing , digging , dunging , in the world , will not make a swore Crab-tree stock bring forth good Apples , unlesse it be grafted with a graft of a good tree , you cannot gather grapes of thornes nor figges of thistles , Matth. 7.16 . So all the pruning or dressing of man or woman by art and education will not make them bring forth acceptable fruit unto God , unlesse they bee grafted with grace from above . Those other things may make them civill and sober , wise and well reputed of in the world , but they cannot make them holy , and pleasing in Gods sight .

And their best and most glorious workes of pietie and charity , which in some sort they may , and doe performe , are but glistering sinnes . Splendida peccata , as Saint Austine hath long since truly termed them . For such offer to God a body without a soule , because grace is that which gives spirit , and life to all our actions , without which all we doe must needs bee , Heb. 6.1 . and 9.14 . but dead workes , as the Scripture cals them , Heb. 6.1 .

Thus much for their actions in generall , 2 In regard of particulars , as 1 Prayer . the same may be said of particulars ; we shall see the excellency of the one above the other to be notable . As for example , first in prayer . Both those that have grace , and they that want grace and the feare of God , may set upon this holy duty ; but not with the same successe . The Prayers of faithfull women , as well as men pierce the clouds , and pull downe Gods blessings , upon themselves and others . As we may see in Hannah , 1 Sam. 1.12 , 13 , and 15. See Genesis 30. ver. 1. and 20. who by her prayers became of barren fruitfull , and as barrennesse was then accounted a great curse , so fruitfulnesse was esteemed a great blessing .

And before and above the rest she obtained a Samuel , one that had the print of his mothers prayers set upon his Name , for Samuel signifies as much as one asked or begged of God . See 1 Sam. 1.20 . This Samuel , this sonne of prayer , proved a worthy servant of the Lord , a Iudge in Israel , 1 Sam. 3. and a Prophet of the Lord , to whom God revealed Himselfe betimes . She powred out her soule before the Lord , 1 Sam. 1.15 . and hee powred downe this great blessing upon her , which was the joy and rejoycing of her selfe , and her husband , and the staffe and stay of all Israel , as appeares at large in the first booke of Samuel .

And how came Solomon to be so famous , and to be preferred before his elder brethren to the kingdome of Israel ? It is more then probable , that it came to passe by his holy mothers prayers , and instructions , and therefore shee cals him the sonne of her vowes , Pov. 31.2 . vowes and prayers being sometimes taken for the very same .

Thus good women are wonderfull helpefull to their husbands by their prayers , and also to their children : And indeed the whole family fares the better for them . But those that want grace , Gods feare , and faith , cannot pray so as to prevaile with God . They may say their prayers , ( as we use to say ) but pray properly they cannot . For how shall they call on him in whom they have not beleeved ? Rom. 10.14 . If we aske not in faith wee cannot receive any thing of GOD , Iam. 1.6 , 7. wee may receive something by Gods ordinary providence , that is extended to man and beast , but we receive nothing by our prayers , that proceed not from grace . The prayer of faith is that which heales both soule and body , Iam. 5.15 , 16.

Therefore those men and women that want faith and the feare of God , their praying is meere prating or babbling , as our Saviour saith of the prayers of the heathen , Mat. 6.7 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . meere Battologie , and bare repetition of words .

Hence when Saul ( that became Paul ) was newly converted , who had made havocke of the Church before , Christ signified the same to Ananias in these words . Behold hee prayeth , Acts 9.11 . Saul we read , was a strict Pharisee , Acts 26.5 . And the Pharisees used to pray standing in the Synagogues , and in the corners of the streets , just as the Papists and other hypocrites , to be seene of men , Mat. 6.5 . And for a pretense made long prayers , Matth. 23.14 . yet behold , now hee prayeth , saith the Lord , hee never prayed till now , till hee was brought home humble to Christ , & had his heart changed by grace from heaven , Behold now hee prayeth indeed , now his prayers are to purpose .

Likewise as her prayers are most excellent that hath grace and the feare of God , 2. Al other speeches . so are her other speeches . A woman that hath grace speakes so , as to minister grace unto the hearers , Ephes. 4.29 . Shee openeth her mouth with wisdome : and in her tongue is the law of kindnesse , Prov. 31.26 . But it is farre otherwise with those that want grace , they speake so as to minister rather sin to the hearers . Witnesse the fond , frivolous , unsavoury , and malicious discourses of most women , when they meet together . Not a word of grace comes out of their lippes in a long season , they savour no such discourse .

Likewise , Great difference in the end of their actions . 1 Cor. 10.31 . they differ as much in the end of their actions , gracious women ayme at Gods glory in all their actions : which is little regarded of those that want grace , and therefore GOD regards not their actions in any measure , as hee doth theirs that seeke his honour . For those that honour me I will honour , saith the Lord , and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed , 1 Sam. 2.30 .

Come wee a little further and consider these 2. Differences in regard of some speciall relations . sorts of women in regard of some relations , and other adjuncts , and we shall finde a vast difference that grace makes betweene them .

First , 1 In their heads . a godly and gracious woman is a lively member of Christ , whereas without grace women are no members at all , or else unsound , rotten , and corrupt members , yea in 〈◊〉 limbes of Satan . And 〈◊〉 the members partake of the honour or dishonour of the head , so it is here . The lively members of Christ participate of his honours and dignities . For in him they are more than conquerours , Rom. 8.37 . And to him that overcommeth saith Christ , I will give power over Nations , and hee shall rule them with a rod of yron , &c. even as I received of my Father , Revel. 2.26 , 27. And hee hath made us all Kings , Revel. 1.6 . See also , The one sort shal sit upon the bench and the other stand at the barre . Revel. 3.21 . To him that overcommeth will I grant to sit with mee in my Throne , &c. This honour have all his Saints , men and women . Know ye not that the Saints shall judge the world , 1 Cor. 6.2 . whereas all others shall be judged by them , and sentenced with the Devill and his Angels , Matth. 25.41 . The Saints shall sit on the Bench , the other shall stand at the Barre .

Secondly , 2. In their Husband . The excellency of a gracious woman appeares , in her husband , for every Christian soule is espoused unto the sonne of God , even matched unto Christ . Hence the Apostle said that hee had espoused the Corinthians unto one husband , Virgins in a spirituall not Popish sense . that he might present them chast Virgins unto CHRIST , 2 Cor. 11.2 .

And you know that the wife partakes of her husbands honours and excellencies . Viri radijs coruscant mulieres , as the Lawyers speake . Women shine with their husbands beames , as the Moone with the light of the Sunne . If he be a Lord , she is a Lady ; if hee bee a King , shee is a Queene , &c. Therefore in like manner every woman that hath true grace , whereby shee is matched to the most excellent husband must needs be most excellent ; whereas those that want grace , and the feare of God , are matched and lincked by sinne unto Satan , and so shall partake of his shamefull miseries , according to the sentence , Mat. 25.41 . Depart into everlasting fire prepared for the Devill and his angels .

Thirdly , 3 In their portion . Portion is an adjunct that makes a woman much set by and sought after . And even in this the gracious woman hath got farre the better , more than Benjamins messe exceeded his brethrens , though the other hath many thousands . For she hath God for her portion , as David had Psalm . 16.5 . and others , Psalm . 73.26 . Lam. 3.24 . And accordingly she hath the most excellent joynture , she is joynt heirewith Christ Iesus , Rom. 8.17 . So that shee hath many Iewels , even those exceeding great and precious promises , 2 Pet. 1.4 . To such the Apostle saith , All things are yours , whether Paul or Apollo , or Cephas or the world , or life , or death , or things present , or things to come , all are yours ( hee saith it twice to make us the more sure ) and yee are Christs , and Christ is Gods , 1 Cor. 3.21 , 22 , 23.

The same difference is here as was among Abrahams Children , Genesis 25.5 , 6. as betweene Isaac and the sons of the Concubine . Abraham gave all that he had unto Isaac ( saith the text , ) but unto the sonnes of the Concubine he gave gifts , and sent them away . Even so it is in this case : the wicked who are but sonnes and daughters of the Concubine , bastards indeed and not legitimate Children , have onely portions , to wit , the poore things of this life , more or lesse , which are meane pittances , with which they are sent packing ; when as they that feare God , being lawfull children , have the whole inheritance , for they are Children of the promise as Isaac was .

Lastly , 4 Apparell . Apparell is an adjunct that sets out a woman , and makes her seeme excellent . And herein the gracious woman doth far outstrip her that wants grace , because she hath put off the ragges of corruption which the other still retaines and hugges . And she hath put on the armour of light , and consequently hath put on the Lord Iesus Christ , Rom. 13.12 , 13 , 14. which is royall apparell indeed , more rich than all the world . Such women as have this apparell , are like the Kings daughter , Psalm . 45. who was all glorious within , and her clothing of wrought gold , ver. 13. Every gracious woman is daughter to the great King , her clothing of wrought gold , even of that gold , which was tryed by fire , which our Saviour commanded the Laodiceans to buy of him , Revel. 3.18 . which can no where else bee had . All the Gold in Ophyr or the Indies is but drosse to this .

In a word every gracious woman is arrayed like that woman , Revel. 12.1 . Who was clothed with the sunne , Mal 4.2 . and the Moone under her feet . So she that feare God is clothed with the Sunne of righteousnesse , and tramples all sublunary and earthly things under her feet , as too base and mear to bee advanced in her judgement and affections .

And if Salomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these Lillyes of the field , Cant. 2.2 . how surpassing then is the glory of these Lillyes among thornes , that are clothed with him , who was farre greater than Salomon ? Mat. 12.

By all this then it is as cleare as the sunne , that Grace and true Religion are the most excellent ornaments of women , and the feare of God makes the most excellent wives in every respect . Now let us see what use and application may be made of this .

It may first of all serve to condemne the corrupt judgement of the bleare-eyed world , Vse 1 that is so contrary to the judgement of God and good men . The world mainly commends outward beauty , and bravery , portion , proportion and the like , in women ; but as for grace , and the feare of God , Religion and true holines , so much approved by God , and extolled by the Holy Ghost , these are scarcely named , the world lookes asquint at them , and cannot endure them , especially in women , yea they be cryed downe and condemned as folly and madnesse . Ioh. 7.48 , 49. and 10.20 . What may bee the reason of this ? but because the world wants eyes to discerne the worth and excellencie of the best things ; for these things are spiritually discerned , 1 Corinth. 2.14 . The Kings daughter is all glorious within , the world wants the spectacles of faith , to looke within the vaile , and to see things aright , and lookes thorow the false glasse of the Devill , whereby they are deluded : and hence it comes to passe , that that which is highly esteemed of men is abhomination in the sight of God , Luk. 16.15 . and on the contrarie , that which is highly esteemed of God is abomination in the sight of men .

Secondly , Vse 2 if grace and Gods feare make most excellent wives , then this condemnes the carnall choyce of most men , that rather match for money or beauty , &c. that for grace that is the only beauty , and brings the greatest portion , yea which brings a true title to all the promises and kingdome of heaven it selfe , which are rare and rich Iewels .

A man will not bee so mad as to buy an horse meerely for his shape and colour , but he will have a speciall eye to his pace and strength and mettle , that hee may bee serviceable , and yet in this maine matter of seeking Wives many are so senselesse , as to be carryed away with the painted sheath , like children , more than the blade , which is especially for use .

3. Vse 3 Learne hence what you ought principally to prize in men or women ; not earthly , but spirituall things , not beauty and bravery , and riches and the like , but true grace and Religion , godlinesse and the feare of God , which will make both men and women far more precious than Rubyes , or the richest stones , and which make men and women as much differ from others as Starres doe in glory .

When the wiser Heathen were demanded the difference betweene Philosophers and those that were unlearned , they concluded the difference , as much as was betweene a man and a beast : and Solomon saith , that wisdome excelleth folly as farre as light excelleth darknesse , Eccles. 2.13 . But Grace makes a farre greater difference , even as much as is betweene heaven and earth , yea as betweene heaven and hell , as plentifully appeares in the former proofes .

Againe , Vse 4 is it so , that grace and Gods feare make most excellent men and women ? then learne we hence to become truly excellent , by labouring most earnestly and zeaously for grace and the true feare of God . If we could as clearly shew you how to excell in wo ldly wealth , or strength , or beautie , &c. I doubt not , but wee should have followers flocke after us , as fast as they goe to faires and skilfull Physitians . Why should you not much more hearken unto us in that which wil make you farre more excellent , both in soule and body , even excellent in the eyes of God , and amiable in the sight of his deare Son .

Covet earnestly ( saith the Apostle ) the best gifts , Vide D. Sclat . in locum . and yet I shew you a more excellent way , 1 Cor. 12.31 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 it is the superlative in the Originall the most excellent way They were ambitious and covetous of praise in the Church of Corinth , therfore hee shewes them the onely way to bee ambitious and covetous without crime or sinne , namely by coveting most earnestly the best gifts , which hee cals the most excellent way .

Wherefore let other be more wealthy , so you be more worthy ; and let others bee more eminent and glorious in the world , and things of the world , so you bee most excellent and glorious in the best things , in spirituall and heavenly gifts .

But , may some say , Object . if we take this course to bee more truly religious , and forward in grace , and the feare of God , wee shall not bee accounted excellent ; but rather pestilent to the places where wee live , as wee find by experience , wee shall be esteemed the verie troublers of the land , &c.

Answ. This need not trouble us , so long as it hath been the lot of the most excellent servants of God . For even Elias the restorer of religion in Israel , was so faluted by wicked Ahab , who sold himselfe to worke wickednesse , Art thou hee that troubleth Israel ? 1 King . 18.17 . when it was Ahab himselfe and his fathers house , that were the troublers of the land , in that they had forsaken the commandements of God , and followed Baalim , as the Prophet replyed , vers. 18. And S. Paul a singular Apostle , that excelled all the rest in zeale , unwearied watchfulnesse and diligence , was not he also accused to his face , and that before the Governor Felix , for a pestilent fellow , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . Acts 24.5 . indeed a very plague , a mover of sedition among all the Iewes thorowout the world , and a ring-leader of the sect of the Nazarens , for even so they miscalled the true Christians in those dayes , Acts 24.5 . who shall never want one nickname or other to make them odious , though they bee the excellent of the earth , of whom the world is not worthy . Therefore our blessed Saviour bids us rejoyce and be exceeding glad , Hab. 11.38 . when men revile us and persecute us , and say all manner of evill for his names sake falsely , because even so persecuted they the Prophets that were before us , and great is our reward in heaven , Matth. 5.11 , 12.

The Apostles that were the most excellent , yet were esteemed as the filth of the world , and off-scouring of all things , 1 Cor. 4.13 . The excellency of those that have true grace is out of the reach of humane reason , and this makes many despise that which they cannot discerne . And who would not rather bee excellent , and yet esteemed vile , as Christ himselfe and his Apostles were , than being base and vile , by reason of sinne , to bee highly esteemed and extolled in the world ?

Wherefore I say again , covet earnestly these best gifts , to wit , of grace and the true feare of GOD , which is the most excellent way , notwithstanding all the ignominie & reproch , all the derision and disdaine , that the wicked world can cast upon it . And know this withall , that nothing is excellent , but it is also difficult . You must not looke to excell , and yet live as you list , as the most , especially great men and women use to doe . The kingdome of heaven ( which is the most excellent kingdom ) suffereth violence ( saith our Saviour ) and the violent take it by force , Mat. 11.12 . You must therefore be violent for grace and Gods kingdome , if you meane to be excellent .

See therefore that with diligence you set upon the most excellent and difficult duties , as selfe-denyall , serious examination of your owne hearts and wayes , frequent praying , reading , hearing , and meditating in the good word of God , Acts 20.32 . the word of his grace , Conferring and keeping company with such especially as feare the Lord , Psalm . 119.63 . and excell in vertue , Psalm . 16.3 . Ephe. 5.15 , 16. Walking circumspectly , or exactly , redeeming the time because the dayes are evill ; perfecting holinesse in the feare of God , 2 Cor. 7.1 . For God hath commanded to keepe his precepts diligently , or very much Psal. 119.4 . And cursed is the deceiver , that in his flocke hath a male , and sacrificeth unto the LORD a corrupt thing , for I am a great King saith the Lord of Hosts , and my name is dreadfull among the heathen , Mal. 1.14 .

Lastly , Vse 5 let not any think that these things will not stand with their state , and place or birth and the like . For this in the Text was spoken by a worthy Queene written by a famous King , to wit , wise Solomon , and that concerning the commendations of a great woman especially , as interpreters observe , And owned by the Holy Ghost , for part of Gods pure word , given by inspiration from GOD. Yea let them know , that Grace and true Religion sincerely followed , is the Crowne of greatnesse , and the fairest flower in their garden , or Garland that sit upon the highest thrones . As it was farre greater honour for David to bee stiled a man after Gods owne heart for devotion , and zeale , than when the women sang Saul hath slaine his thousands , and David his tenne thousand , 1 Sam. 18.7 .

And so I come in a word to the last words of my Text. But a woman that feareth the Lord shee shall bee praised . Hence we may observe . Obser . 2 It is our bounden duty to praise those that be praise-worthy , especially such as excell in vertue .

The reason is ready , Reas. 1 that others may be incouraged to labour for the like notable and eminent vertues and graces . As also to confirme such as take the same courses , that they may never bee weary of well doing , nor faint in the wayes of grace and godlinesse , wherein they shall be sure to meete with discouragements more than a few in this present evill world . It may serve also to quicken others in the wayes of Gods Commandements , praise being a speciall spurre to that purpose , as we finde by experience . And so I come briefely to the application of the point .

Vse 1 If praise bee such a due debt to those that doe vertuously , and especially to them that excell in grace , and in the feare of God , then let none bee so crosse and opposite unto God as to condemne those , whom the Lord commends , let none be so base minded as to cry out upon such as follow fastest after grace and true Religion . For he that justifieth the wicked , and he that condemneth the just , even they both are an abomination to the Lord , Pro. 17 15.

Secondly , Vse 2 Let none be offended to heare the due and deserved praises of those that excell in grace and Gods holy feare . For some are more desirous to have wicked men and women flattered , and soothed in their sinfull , and gracelesse courses , than to heare the praises of such as bee holy and heavenly minded , because they are like to the former , and most unwilling to tread in straight steps of the latter . But woe be to them that call evill good , and good evill , Isa. 5.20 . He that thus blesseth his friend , rising early in the morning , it shall be counted a curse to him , Pro. 27.14 . To blesse and praise men or women without desert , is no blessing , but a curse , and on the contrary , to blesse and praise where there is just ground , will be a means to bring a blessing . And thus much shall suffice for the Text. Now may wee seasonably proceed to the occasion .

Concerning this most worthy Gentlewoman , The occasion . for whose sake we are here assembled ; I may safely say without strayning , as my Text leades me , Many daughters have done vertuously , but thou excellest them all . I speake it without dispraise to any , take her every way , and she goes beyond all , that ever I knew , in my apprehension , and that especially in these three respects . 1. If you consider her age , 2. The time of her standing , and 3. Her ranke and parentage .

For her age , For her age . She was but full three and twentie the last month , and yet so growne in grace , that shee might seeme rather threescore and three , for gravity sobriety and modesty , matching the eldest matrons . She had but a short time to runne her race , and God gave her an heart to make haste , for she ranne so fast , that shee not only overtooke , but over-ranne all her fellowes .

For her time of standing , it was about 7. yeares , Her time of standing she served an Apprentiship , and was therein so true to her heavenly maker , that he thought her fully fit to be made free , not only in the kingdom of grace but of glory . She was so good a scholar in CHRISTS Schoole , that she was called to take her highest degree , to wit , in heaven , long before the usuall time , as some doe in the Vniversity propter excellentiam , for their excellencie above their fellowes . For in seaven yeares shee learned more , than many , ( and those true Christians too ) in 7. times 7. yeares .

And for her rancke and parentage , Her rancke and parentage . She was descended of no meane family , shee came of some very honourable ancestours , yet so humble , and lowly was she , and denyed her selfe so much for her Saviours sake , that she would be familiar with the meanest that made conscience of their wayes , and had the feare of God before their eyes , preferring such as were rich in faith , Jam. 2.5 . far before any other , though never so gay , and glorious in the world .

Yea in all these three respects she was one of a thousand , nay one of ten thousand , and therfore the fitter to be fully matched with him , that is chiefest of ten thousand , Cant. 5.10 . So that I may very well apply all those former excellencies unto her , wherein women truely fearing God farre exceed all other women .

And first for Birth , hers was of the best , Her birth of the best . shee was most nobly borne most royally descended , being partaker of the new birth , borne from above , and begotten of God , who of his owne will begat her by the word of truth , Iam. 1.18 . which she most evidently expressed , by that great respect and reverence which she ever after bare to that blessed instrument of her heavenly birth , Gods holy word , making it her delight and counsellour , as the Prophet did , Psal. 119.24 .

Secondly , As shee had the best birth , Her beauty so she obtained the most excellent beauty , even the beauty of holines , the blessed image of God , which made her most amiable in the eyes of all those that were well acquainted with her , and could discerne the things that be excellent , and even dazled the eyes of others . So beautifull was shee in this best kinde , that shee did much grace and adorn the Gospell , and beautified her profession , whereas some are a blot and blemish unto it .

And therefore in the third place she must needs be well favoured , Her favour for her parts were well proportioned . She was a true Elizabeth , walking in all the Commandements and Ordinances of the Lord blamelesse , like that Elizabeth , Luk. 1.6 . And was not like those women that have many good parts , but withall some such foule infirmities , that they staine and spoyle all that is good in them , so that they cause the name of God , and his word to be blasphemed .

Fourthly , For her understanding : Her understanding . she was able to discerne those mysteries which are hid from the wise and prudent , for she perceived an excellency in things above , which made her so ready to runne the wayes of Gods Commandements , when others scarce goe in them . Shee was able by an heavenly instinct , to distinguish the voyce of Christ from the voyce of a stranger , Ioh. 10.4 , 5. which made her esteeme all other things dung in comparison of the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Iesus , Philip. 3.8 .

Fifthly , For her Love , Her Love . it was truly excellent and of the best stamp , for it was set upon the right object , upon God and the things of God , in the first place , so that shee could say with the Psalmist , whom have I in heaven but thee , and I desire none in earth besides thee , Psal. 73.25 . And with the Martyrs . None but Christ , St. Peter and Iohn Lambert . Mart. Nothing but Christ .

Her charity also was towards all , even her utter enemies , for she could doe good against evill , but her speciall love was to the Saints , in whom was her delight . She well understood and made much use of that Article of the Creed , which few conceive , ( The Communion of Saints ) being very open-hearted and open-handed to such as she thought true members of that blessed society . And if she seemed sparing at any time , it was to spend the more liberally upon the lively members of Christ , in which regard shee did match the Macedonians , whose grace Saint Paul much commended , because to their power ( he bare record ) yea and beyond their power , they were willing of themselves . Herein where most Christians come short she exceeded . Their love is less than their meanes , hers above her abilities . And so was she , as many can beare record , and this because she had first given her selfe to the Lord , and then to others by the will of God , as they did , 2 Cor. 8.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5.

In a word her love to her deare and familiar friends was like the love of Ionathan unto David , wonderfull , passing the love of women , 2 Sam. 1.26 . She was indeed a true Ionathan being Iah-nathan a speciall gift of God .

Sixthly , Her spirit . Ruach jattira , Dan. 6. and 3. for Her spirit she might well bee called the Daughter of Daniel , because Ruach Iattira as the Chaldee hath it , an excellent spirit was in her : Though the weaker vessell , yet had she a masculine , heroicke , and invincible spirit , to resist Satan and his instruments , whensoever shee was set upon to be hindred from Gods service . O how couragiously would she break through all impediments , that might any way hinder her from holy duties , even as Samson snapt asunder the cords and withes ! Iudg. 16.

With what an holy indignation did shee skorne the wealth and pleasures of this present world , as drosse and scum in comparison of the true treasure ! And how undaunted in defending the truth and those that stood for the same ! She was not ashamed of Christian any company , as many cowardly Christians are .

Thus much for those things that were applyed to the person of woman in the proofe of the point . Next for her Actions , first in generall . Now come wee to her actions , which were like her selfe , sanctified and singular . For Religion was her master-piece , 1 King . 18.12 . as this worthy womans in the text , shee was one that feared God from her youth and therefore her actions proceeded from a right roote , and clear spring ●he was no hipocrite , I dare boldly say , for shee was not so much in shew as in substance , not more in words than in deeds but as God had given he● 2. hands to one tongue , so her deeds doubled her words , and though thus double handed in all her doings , contrary to the course of the world yet most single hearted .

In particular for her prayers , In particular for her prayers . Hos. 12.3 , 4. they were not cold , lazie , and lukewarm , but such as pierced the skies , like those of Cornelius , Act. 10.4 . O how would shee wrastle with God in prayer ! how would she flye to the throne of grace as it were upon the wings of faith ! And how often hath she bin observed to rise from prayer , with teares in her eyes , on her cheekes , and dropped down before her ! and that without any ostentation , which she was as free from , as any that ever I observed . I speake by experience .

As much may be said for her diligent and dutifull hearing ( to adde an instance or two more . ) And hearing Gods Word . For she delighted not in houses of play , and pleasure , as most young Gentlewomen doe , but the houses of praying and preaching were her chiefe joy . Psalm . 137.5 , 6. So that whatsoever paines shee was able to take she was willing to undergoe , to come to those places where shee might heare God most lively speaking unto her , and she againe most powerfully like Hannah , powre out her soule unto the Lord . Mourning for nothing more in time of her sicknesse , than the want of Gods house and ordinances , for nothing but Necessitie could keepe her from them , which is far otherwise , with a great many especially of her ranck , who are but too easily intreated to keep from the Church , even when God himselfe , their own , and the Churches necessities call upon them .

And while shee was hearing , how marvellous attentive ! even as was said of the people , that heard our Saviour , Luk. 19.48 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 they were attentive to him , or rather hanged upon him as the margent hath it in the last translation ; So she hanged upon the mouth of his messengers , as Chickens hang upon the mouth of the Hen , ( as some open the phrase ) that are ready to catch whatsoever shee shall breake for them , or let fall unto them .

Even so her comming to the Sacrament was admirable . And receiving the holy Sacrament . How solemne and serious would shee be in preparing for that holy Supper , setting apart sometimes dayes of fasting and humiliation ( which were dayes of Iubilee to her sanctified spirit ) that shee might come the more hungry and thirsty , and so bee more fully satisfied with the fat and sweet of this most heavenly Table .

Seldome did shee receive this blesse . Sacrament with dry eyes , as I have bin often an eye witnesse ( though she carryed it covertly , and yet how often did she frequent this holy Feast ! never missing the monthly Communions , if shee were able to come to the Church , and that I think for 7. yeares together , after once it had pleased the Lord to let the light of his countenance shine upon her , wherein she followed a good patterne given her at home .

These are strange things , you will think , but I can assure you , not so strange as true , for I do not speak , as we must do many times by hear-say , but I speak , what I have seen and knowne .

And now for her words and speeches she had learn'd the language of Canaan , Her words . Jsa. 19.8 . Neh. 13.24 . and did not mingle it with the speech of Ashdod , she was not double-tongued but spake the words of sobernesse and truth . She loved that pure language , Zeph. 3.9 . and hated lying , and swearing , yea she abhorred all rotten speech and corrupt communication , as filthy vomit , labouring to have her speeches alwaies with grace , Col. 4.6 . seasoned with salt as the Apostle commandes .

And for the end of her Actions , The end of her actions She exceedingly aymed at Gods glory , preferring that before all , so that she would often say . If she could but glorifie God shee cared not . For she had learnt by heart that hard lesson of Selfe deny all for Gods sake .

Now in the last place to come to those relations , and adjuncts of excellency .

First , She was a most lively member of Christs mysticall body , Honourable in her Head . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . She had conquest upon conquest , one victory after another . and therefore most honourable in Her head . Witnesse those worthy workes before related . She was in Christ her head more than a Conquerour , Rom. 8.37 . she did over-overcome , as one well renders the words . For she conquered the corruptions of youth , of her place , of the times and places wherein she lived , and therefore now no doubt is gone to weare the crown of righteousnes , having fought so good a fight of faith , 2 Tim. 4.7 , 8.

2. She was no lesse excellent in her Husband than in her head , In her husband . which are the same , for she was espoused unto Christ , her heavenly husband , with whose beams of grace she did shine brightlie while she was here , and therefore now she glisters gloriously as the Sun , with his most orient beames of blisse and happinesse .

3. For her Portion , that was no corruptible thing , In her Portion . as silver or gold , but even the Lord of heaven , whose mercy endures for ever , in comparison of whom shee esteemed al earthly treasure but drosse and dunge . And therefore now she is gone to take possession of that goodly joynture , the kingdom of glory , being joynt-heire with Christ Iesus . Rom. 8.17 . For on earth women doe not enjoy their joynture , but the time of life after their Husbands death , but 't is otherwise in heaven , for they go to take a fuller possession of their spirituall joynture by death , which is the dore of eternall life to them that die in the Lord .

Lastly , for her Apparell , it was of the choycest and best , In her Apparell . even the Royal Robes of Christs righteousnes , which she had put on by faith , Phil. 3 9. renouncing her own righteousnes , as rotten ragges in comparison , often complaining of her owne unrighteousnesse . And yet wheras other Gentlewomen are much taken up with providing for the body , tricking and trimming that painted sheath , for it is no better oftentimes , See Dan. 7.15 . in the Chaldee . Vestite vos serico probitatis . byssino sanctitatis purpura pudicitia . Taliter pigmentatae Deum habebitu amatorem , Ter. de cul . foeminarum . shee mainely minded the trimming and decking of her soule , by her daily devotion , wherein she excelled , hating the fond and flaring , phantasticall and new fangled fashions of the world , as fit for none but idle braines , vaine and wanton women , that want eyes to look into their precious soule , and see how needy and naked , tattered & deformed they are within .

Shee therefore now ( no doubt ) is arrayed like those in the Revelation , that had long white Robes , and Palmes in their hands , in signe of victory , Rev. 7.9 . For she came out of great tribulation , and had washed her Robe , and made it white in the bloud of the Lamb v. Ver. 16.17 . 14. So that now shee shall hunger no more , nor thirst any more , all teares being wiped from her eyes , See Isaiah 57.1 , 2. though not from ours . For wee have great cause to weepe and mourne , not for her , but for our selves . The greater her gaine is , the greater is our losse , and not ours only , but the whole Church of God .

Thus much for her life . Of Her death . Now concerning her death , I must say something , because she gave me as it were a charge , intreating me to speake that which I shall briefly declare unto you .

The first day that she fell ill , I went unexpectedly to see her , wherin she acknowledged Gods speciall providence . I found her indeed somthing sad , yea more than ordinary , not for feare of Death , but because that her disease was likely to be such as would deprive her of her friends , hence those teares . To wit , the small Poxe I told her shee was in the hands of a wise and tender Father , who knew best what was fit for us , and therefore shee needed not so much to be troubled at that . After we had commended her case unto God in Prayer , She desired to be buryed before the Sermon because of the disease . she intreated me that after her buryall ( for she made full account to die ) I would make a Sermon , and therein perswade the hearers to these two things .

The first was , Her first desire . that you would hearken to the Word of God better than she had done . To which I presently replyed ( as well as I could for teares being much affected with her words ) I would they would heare but so well as she did . Yet , beloved , my desire is as hers was , that you would hearken better then she did , which if I could perswade you all unto , I should thinke my selfe the happiest man in the world . For herein she did excell , as I said before , howsoever in her humility and zeale to Gods word she thus spake .

Therefore let me intreat you to grant this her holy desire . If it bee possble , hearken to Gods holy Word better than shee did . But if this be impossble , as almost it is , yet hearken so as shee did , and you shall undoubtedly be blessed . For as she had a very good memory , for good things especially , so had she a most artentive eare and heart , even like Mary that chose that good , part which should not bee taken from her , Luk. 10.42 . And like those Noble Bereans , Acts 17.11 , 12. Who were said to bee 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 more generous than those of Thessalonica , first in that they received the Word with all readinesse of mind , and secondly , in that they searched the Scriptures daily , whether those things were so , therefore many of them beleeved ; also of honourable women , and of men not a few .

Yea so hungry was she after Gods holy Word , that shee feared no famine , but that threatned by the Prophet Amos. Not a famine of bread , but of hearing the Word of the Lord , Amos 8.11 . Oh therefore that you could but equall , if not exceed her in this ! Then might you find that most ravishing comfort in hearing , The last Lords day save one as she told us at that time . The second request . which she confessed she found a little before she fell sicke .

The other thing she desired to be commended unto you was this . That you would have a speciall care to looke to your Families , She meant in regard of religious orders , which are so much neglected in most places , men living athome more like heathens and Infidels than true Christians . For though she did more than most in this kind , yet was it a great griefe unto her , that she could not doe better . Oh that you would let her have her desire in this also ! you would find the blessing above measure , if you did but once set up the power of godlinesse in your families , that you might be said to feare God , with all your house as Cornelius did , Acts 10.2 . For by this meanes this good Gentlewoman was truly said to be a prop , or pillar in the house .

So that her Husband , and Children , ( if they were of yeares ) might joyne in her praises , as they before the Text. Her Children might arise and call her blessed , Some referre these words of the Text to the Husband . her Husband also might praise her , saying ; Many daughters have done vertuously , or valiantly ; but thou excellest , and goest above them all , &c.

Indeed her wayes so pleased Pro. 16.7 . the Lord , that her enemies were at peace with her , as Salomon saith , And what I speake a cloud of witnesses will testifie . Therefore I need the lesse feare to bee accused either of False hood or Flattery , which I have alwayes abhorred in every place , especially in the Pulpit , and so did she , which made her somtime say , that shee would desire nothing might be said of her at her death , because she had with sorrow heard , some sainted at their death , who were little better than devils in their life .

Let none therefore take that with the left hand which I have reached out with the right , as Saul did the due and deserved commendations given to David , For I speak that truth in Christ , I lie not , my conscience also bearing me witnesse , Rom. 9.1 .

Nay , if I should reckon all the rarities of this right religious Gentlewoman , that I have beene an eye , and eare-witnesse of , from her first to her last , Dies me desiceret , The day would faile me , my spirits would bee spent , and I should tire your patience , and it might make most of us blush and be ashamed to see how farre we come short , and all of us admire and stand amazed , and astonished at the goodnesse and grace of GOD so plentifully powred upon her .

Therefore to conclude , Happy was ( yea , and still is ) the Mother of such a Daughter . Happy the Husband in such a Wife , and happy children of such a Mother , who hath laid up many prayers , better than portions for them . And happie were all her acquaintance in such a friend , And yet more happie they and wee in following her heavenly steps . But most happy she , that led so holy and heavenly a life . Because blessed are the dead which die in the Lord , even so saith the spirit , that they may rest from their labors , and their works follow them , Rev. 14 13.

FINIS .