An inuitation vnto prayer, and the practise of piety, directing the way to true happinesse Wherein is principally to be considered, these foure things. 1. What prayer vnto God is. 2. The necessity of it. 3. The profit we receiue by this holy exercise. 4. The maner and vse of it.

AN Inuitation vnto Prayer , and the practise of Piety , directing the way to true Happinesse .

Wherein is principally to be considered , these foure things . 1. What Prayer vnto God is . 2. The necessity of it . 3. The profit we receiue by this holy exercise . 4. The manner and vse of it .

London printed by Isaac Iaggard for Robert Bird , and are to bee sold at his shop in Cheapside , at the signe of the Bible , 1624.

To my Honourable and Worthy Friends in Parliament .

ALL good counsell comes from God . Humane consultations are as fraile ; as themselues are feeble . Nature hath her courses and corruptions in all the accidents of this world . Mans aduice relyng onely on it selfe , is like his actions , sometimes prosperous , often perillous , & many times pernitious . The most sure and safe helpe that wee haue , comes from the gouernour of Heauen & Earth . The defence of his truth is our best buckler , and his seruice our chiefest safety . Prayers and Petitions vnto God , are the Harbingers , which prepares a place for our heauenly habitation , and makes firme our earthly possessions . This small and slender Treatise , which J haue now puhlished concerning Prayer , was first written ahout 27. yeares since , then penned for mine owne practise : since which time , it hath beene concealed , and in a manner cast away , amongst many my other loose Papers , vntill of late finding it vnlooked for , J shewed it to some of my priuate Friends , whose desires were ; it should be made publicke . To that J yeelded , not for any worth J could conceiue to bee in the worke , comming from one so weake , but to satisfy those who J knew would beare with my faults . Of all our actions , the world is as it were the Theater , our selues the Actors ; wherein some play their partes with skill , others in simplicity , most with errors : the greater part are censurers , more ready to finde fault with others , then to search into themselues : whatsoeuer they are , or J am , J see my selfe subiect to censure ▪ This subiect is Prayer , the pathway to happinesse : the handling and carriage of rich Roabes by poore men , makes not the garments meane , but it may be more meanely valewed , it is that in attyre as in Physicke ; the Materials of the one , and ingredients of Medicines in the other , beeing of themselues good , yet not well by the workers managed , composed , and mixed ; makes their shew of lesse esteeme ; and indeede their substance of lesse vse . Such may be the state of this Treatise touching prayers , the subiect in it selfe holy & heauenly ; but by mee not well handled ; may so fall out to be lesse valewed , then the dignity of it wel set forth , would shew it selfe to be . Howsoeuer , I offer this small Widowes Myte into that Treasurie where true Christians by Prayer and Piety , makes their oblations and tribute in the Sanctuary of GOD , vnto whose gracious and good guidance , I commend all your good consultations , with all others that by faithfull prayer and feruent deuotion , desire to serue his Diuine Maiestie .

Yours in him , who can make vs all his , and to enioy all happines . I. P. Knight .

AN INVITATION to Prayer , and the practise of Piety ; directing the way to true Happinesse . With a preparation to the practise thereof .

CHAP. I. What Prayer vnto God is .

BEfore wee treate of this most precious and inestimable gift and grace of Prayer ; it is conuenient to know what Prayer 〈◊〉 to Go●●● . For of thi●●s not knowne what they are , there is little desire to attaine vnto them , be they neuer so excellent in them selues , or profitable vnto others . Therefore , to vse a breefe definition , or rather description of Prayer vnto God : may be said to bee , the Tribute of the soule , powring out praises vnto him for benefites already receiued , or making supplications for such things as we stand in need of , and seeke of his Heauenly Maiesty . Farther to make a celestiall representation , by terrestrial comparison .

Prayer vnto God , may be termed to be as it were , a Bucket , to draw vp the water of Life , from the bottomles Well of Gods infinite grace and mercie . In the efficacie and effects it may bee likened vnto a strong Wall or Fortresse , to guard the soule of him that rightly vseth it , from the temptation and spoile of Sathan . So is it an Armour against all aduersities , and the Soules Medicine against al maladies that doth inuade & indanger it . To conclude this , which brings vs to happinesse with that , which in Diuine contemplation of heauenly Mysteries , wee may somwhat shew what Prayer is , as the Diuines doe declare what God is , by signifying what hee is not , nor cannot be : So it may be said of Prayer ( a principall part of Gods worshippe ) not to be the sport or supine exercise of humane Wit ; nor the practise of sloathfull creatures continuing in known sinnes vnrepented ; but it is an ardent and zealous inuocation , and ( in some sort ) a Conference with God .

Two partes of Prayer . There are two parts of Prayer , as hath bin already in part pointed out . For by shewing what Prayer is , we shew ( in some sort ) of what it consisteth , that is ; Petition , and Praise or Thankesgiuing vnto God . Petition , is an humble suit and seeking vnto God , either for pardon of our sinnes , for supply of spirituall graces , or of temporall necessities , such as our wants in both ( which are great ) doe vrge vs to aske for assistance from the Almighty . Praise & Thanksuing , is an ardent and harty acknowledgment , with a landing of Gods most glorious name , and mercie .

As there are two parts , Two kinds of Prayer . so there are two kindes of Prayer : the one , Mentall ; the other , Vocall . The Mentall prayer is , when our inward conceptions and meditations of the minde , are fixed on the Maiesty of God , by secret and silent recounting , ( without expression of words ) the miseries that our sinnes haue brought vpon our selues : also , when we remember and reioyce at the mercies of God , and so do internally magnifie him for the same , and for his wonderfull workes of Iustice , iudgement , prouidence , and preseruation , without vttering of any words .

The other kinde of Vocall Prayer , is , when the heart cannot be contained and satisfied onely with contemplation , but striues to set the tongue & voyce on worke , either priuately alone , or publikely conioyned with congregation and assembly of Christians , to pray vnto God , & to praise him . The first is profitable , if it bee done with zeale , deuotion , and vnderstanding : but the second is commonly more firme and fruitefull ▪ For , when the soule is soliciting on this seruice of God , yet the exteriour sences doe many times seduce and withdraw the inward meditation , which maketh them vanish , & often wax vaine , except they be vnited and bound together with the organs of voyce and speech ▪ so these concurring make an euen harmony : A comparison . that inward as the Heart , which being the seate of the vitall spirites , g●ines quickning spirit to the body ; this outward , being as the Lungs which receyued from within , and vents outbreath ▪ without which the heart it selfe cannot long continue in health ; nor the body in life : So are they indeede both ( whilest they haue their well-being ) like vnto Hippocrates twinnes born , bred , liuing and dying together .

It is true , that at al times they cannot be conioined ; for sometimes , Contemplation and Meditation may come , and are inuited into the heart by the good Spirite of GOD , at such times and places ; where 〈◊〉〈◊〉 publike nor priu●●● p● 〈…〉 when strength and ●acul●● of sp●ech ●aileth , 〈…〉 when th● Conscience by contemplation may consider , and secretly confesse the frailties & falles which are then , or hath bene before by them committed ; and yet there is no opportunitie or admittance to expresse it : there mentall Prayer and Meditation is most proper . But vocall is most powerfull , when it may bee practised .

CAP. II. The Necessity of Prayer .

NExt , to the examination and knowledg what Prayer is , there comes to bee considered , what the necessitie is of the same : wherein I might well conceyue , there shold neede no great labour to proue it ; nor more then to prooue it , is day-light when the Sun shines : the one being manifest in the workes of Nature ; the other as apparant in the effects of Grace . Yet because ignorance needs information , & curiosity requires confirmation , we will say somewhat , to make the necessity of prayer to bee in our sight ( as indeede it is in it selfe ) perspicuous and plaine .

It is euident to all good and well instructed Christians : That as wee are all Creatures of the heauenly Creator ; 1. Prayer is needfull in respect of Creation . so to this end , did he cheefely create vs ; that we being his Worke-manship , we should worship our great Worke-master , and giue him his deserued glory , by acknowledging this innumerable benefites : in magnifying his Diuine Maiesty , & making supplications vnto him . Which most necessary Christian dutie , wee cannot performe without Prayer . Therefore the necessity of Prayer , is proued in the cause and end of our Creation .

Next , as we are created onely by God ; 2. For our Saluation . so are wee onely saued by him : and of our selues , through our sinnes Originall and Actual , we deserue nothing but destruction , death , & damnation . Therefore , as we stand in 〈◊〉 of pardon for our sins , and of 〈◊〉 pacifie Gods indignation for the sinne , whome vnto doe dayly and greeuously offend so can bee no way so well satisfie him , obtaine pardon of them , and saluation of our soules , as ●y frequent , zeallous , and feruent Prayer ▪ the best procurers of pardon for our transgressions against God .

Thirdly , as well our temporall preseruation , as our Creation and Saluation ; sheweth the necessitie of Prayer . For our youth is accompanyed with rashnesse ; our riper yeares with dangerous aduentures : our elder yeeres , with sickenesse and sundry infirmities . In all which seasons of mans life he is so subiect , and so beset with calamities , dangers , and maladies both of minde , and of body , that without faithfull and feruent Prayer vnto God , he cannot escape those miseries where-with this life , and euery part thereof , is enuironed . And by acceptable Prayer vnto GOD he passeth thorow all these perils .

Therefore , if wee consider who is our Creator , what benefites hee hath bestowed on vs , and to what end hee hath done this . In acknowledging , that hee hath created vs , we are bound to confesse his power & prouidence . In beholding & thankfully receiuing his blessings , as life , helth , liberty , peace , wealth , knowledge , maintenance , mutuall and comfortable society , wee cannot in duty but agnize his wonderfull bountie , clemency , and mercy , which by no other meanes , be so performed , as by ardent & deuout Prayer vnto God .

So then we may see ( if sence do not blind reason , or if reason go not too far in giuing rules vnto Religion ) the necessity of praier vnto God to be so great that without it we cannot well obtaine the things we rightly desire , nor shun that which is hurtfull .

CAP. III. Of the profit of prayer .

THe third thing to be considred , handled , and well weighed , is the benefit and profit of praier vnto God , which though it cannot be truly valued by any but those that feele the fruites of it ; both inwardly in their comforts and consciences , and outwardly in their estates ; and they only that taste and enioy the spiritual consolation they feele and find in this heauenly exercise of prayer , can tell somewhat what it is : though they are not able to expresse it , yet to shew some sparkles of the splendor of praier , ( besides that which hath beene already spoken of the necesity of it ) we will summarily set downe , some examples , what bene●●ts the Children of God haue receiued by the vse of holy and faithfull prayer : and next touching the promises which our Sauior hath made vnto such as shall pray vnto God zealously and truly .

If we looke into the sacred Scripture and holy Bible ; wee shall find sufficient examples , of deliuerance from dangers , & the diuerting of Gods iudgements from sinners , by the prayers of holy men , euen at the time , when most eminent perils haue presented themselues .

And when there hath beene no hope or likelyhood of helpe to bee deliuered by mortall man ; yet the faithfull prayer of one man , hath deliuered many from destruction . As when the Israelites did fight against the Amalekites : as long as Aaron & H●z● , held vp the hands of Moses to pray , the Israelites did preuaile ; when Iudas Machabeus , fought against Gorgeas and his armie , against Lysias and his armie ; hee prayed ; and by effectuall prayer vnto God , he ouercame and got the victory . By prayer , Moses freed his Sister from the Leprosie : and by prayer he pacified Gods displeasure against the people . And by praier , Abraham did oure Abimelech : all which , and many more examples , might be alledged , how profitable the praier of one man hath beene for the preseruation of many .

Then if we consider the promises , which God ( who is able to performe all that hee doth promise ) hath made vnto all those that make faithfull supplications vnto him ; wee shall finde the same to bee so great , as greater cannot come to man , by any indeauour . For it is said , if two or three be assembled together to aske any thing lawfull in Gods name , hee will giue it .

And againe , the holy Ghost saith by the princely Prophet David : Call vpon me in the time of thy need , and I will deliuer thee , and thou shalt praise me . Likewise the same Prophet speaking by the same Spirit ; Let him call vpon mee and I will heare him . I am with him in his trouble , and will bring him to honour .

But because the sacred Scriptures , are full of these certaine promises , for the obtaining of things faithfully and rightly asked of God in prayer , it shall bee sufficient for confirmation of this point ; to adde what our Sauiour himselfe hath said : Verily , verily , I say vnto you , whatsoeuer you shall aske for vnto the Father in my name it shall be giuen you .

If then we be commanded by God himselfe , to pray vnto him , we cannot but clearly see , as in a Christall glasse of Gods holy word , that prayer is most profitable for vs ; as well for the fulfilling of Gods heauenly will , as for the accomplishing of our owne godly desires . And also , if wee see so many comfortable & plaine patternes of the great safety and saluation , that hath come , & doth daily grow vnto the seruants of God , by hearty & faithfull praiers vnto him : then haue we no cause to doubt the profit of prayer , or to deferre the doing of it , with our best deuotion .

And lastly , if wee looke into the plaine and effectuall promises of our All-powerfull God , for the performance of that which we do effectually pray for ; then there shal be no need of more perswasion of the inestimable benefit which powerfull prayer doth bring with it : neither shal there bee any necessity or motiue to follow & frequent the same , but willing minds , directed and assisted by heauenly grace , to bee often conuersant in this most holy and heauenly exercise of zealous prayer ; which is so profitable vnto man , & so acceptable and sweet a sacrifice vnto the Creator of mankind .

CAP. IV. Of the manner of Prayer .

HAuing as we hope shewed what praier is , and proued the necessity and profit thereof : next comes to be considered the manner of it , consisting in three things ; that is , the time , place , and words , to bee vsed in prayer .

First , for the time of prayer , it ought not alwaies to bee limited , how often , or how long wee should pray ; but as often as conueniently wee can , and as long as our faith without fainting , or time without distraction , will giue leaue . Neither are the prescribed rules of the Romish Church , in this behalfe so profitable , or so tollerable , as to obserue Mattin at such houres , to say so many Creeds , so many Aue maries , so many Pater Nosters , and to recite the name of Iesus , or the like , so many times , or to vse such and such prayers , vppon such Beades , vnto such Saints , for such men soules . As though God would haue mens deuotions practised more according to the obseruation of those prescribed rules and times , then at any other time , or in any other manner ; or as if you were bound to heare them more in these regulated rehearsals , then in any other sort , when they shall be deuoted , to offer vp the lncense of Prayer & Thanksgiuing , being sti● 〈…〉 therto , by the inwar● good motion of zeale and deuotion , which ought to be in vs at all times , as well as at any time certaine . But if the mind be not at al times well prepared to Prayer ▪ yet as often as we may find time and meanes , we must endeuour to bee exercised therein , without ouer stri●t obseruation of times limited ; other then at such times as we are called therto by a generall assembly of the Church and Congregation wherein we liue .

2 Likewise for the place of Prayer , it cannot be alwayes restrained nor appointed , no more then the time can be alwayes limited . For although the Churche● ( where the congregation of the faithfull are or ought to bee assembled ) bee the fittest place● for Prayers , yet it ought not to be lonely there , but also elsewhere , because men cannot be alwai●s , or most commonly in the Church . And if th●y may not bee there , yet euerie faithfull mans he attri●●●● time of prayer , is the temple of God . Whether therfore hee bee alone , or in company , or to what place soeuer he bee , his faithfull prayers shall be heard , and he is bound to pray : as Christ went alone in the Mountaine to pray , David prayed in his house toppe , Ionas in the Whales belly , Daniel in the Lyons den , Peter in the pris● 〈…〉 the child 〈◊〉 so Go●● might 〈◊〉 pray in all places where they come , and as they ca●● , whether it bee in the Church , in the house , in the fields , in the war , and in time of peace , at home , and abroad .

3. Lastly , for the words that shall be vsed in prayer , it is a matter worthy of consideration , whith●● they ought alwayes to bee set downe ce●taine● eyther in writing or in the memory ; before we come vnto prayer : Or whether they must be alwayes left vn●● euery m●ns meditation , & present deliuery , as occasion and his inuention shall serue him , or as the Spirit of God shall direct him : wherein , as they do affirm that prayers ought alwaies to be set downe in certaine words , may not haue allowance of their opinions , so on the other side , such as auerre , that the forme of prayer shold be at no time certaine , nor set downe in writing or in the memory , must not be beleeued , nor their assertions allowed as true and infallible .

For the first sort , which say , that one forme of praier in the selfesame words , is alwayes to be vsed , they tye Gods guifts and grace● ( which are in euery man in some measure or other , ther more or lesse ) vnto prescription , and to formal obseruation , which most commonly begetteth cold affection in prayer . For , when a mans deuotion and all his meditation are tyed vnto certaine and vsuall words ; there familiaritie of vttering one thing often taketh away the feeling of that which is vttered , so that it becommeth ●●it ●ip-labour ; and loseth the feruent zeal of an inward deuotion , which doeth best please God in prayer ; and without the f●●uency , praier is of none effect .

Then touching their opinions who affirme , that there should bee no set forme of prayer at any time , or in any place , they do asmuch erre , as the former ( which follow tradition and prescription onely in prayer . ) For in Churches , in Congregations , and in Assemblyes , where publike Prayer is vsed , and where manie doe frequent to pray together , there no doubt , that a form of prayer is very profitable , both for vnity and vniuersall framing of mens mindes and inward affections , in one sence , & in one saying , and at one time , to lift vp both hands & harts vnto God ; which is the sweetest harmony that can bee on earth . And more then that , it is the heauenly harmony , that transporteth our bodies , our minds and our soules from earth vnto heauen . But as this vnity and setled forme of prayer is most profitable and needefull in the publike assemblies ; so in priuate prayers and inuocations , ought no man to bee forbidden the vse of his secret and seuerall Meditations , according as God shal giue him grace and abilitie to praise him , and to pray vnto him . For , although it be not euery mans guift , to deliuer in apt wordes , the secret and particular desires of his soule in praiers vnto God : yet there is no doubt , but the man of meanest conceite and vnderstanding , hauing a desire to performe his duty in this seruice of God ; shall finde ( by exercise and practise heerein ) his minde more apt , This sences more sharp , and his words more ready , with daily and continuall vse of prayer .

Therefore , as euerie man ought not in publicke places of prayer , to follow his owne forme , and separate himselfe in prayer from the Congregation ; so in priuate prayer , no man ought to bee forbidden that forme of prayer , which his faith and capacitie can affoord , according to the sense and feeling of his sinnes , the longing of his soule , and the necessitie of his present estate .

Next vnto the time , the place , and words for vs to vse in prayers , there followeth to bee considered , the Faith and feruencie , that should accompany our prayers , with a most principall & essentiall part thereof : this ought to be in feruency of spirit , without fainting ▪ for to pray without zeale , is but to tempt and mocke God . And God will not bee worshipped in words onely , without the inward affection of the hart , which is as well knowne to God ( the searcher of reines and heart ) as the words that are vttered in prayer . Therefore they which pray without faith & without feruency , performe no more then plants which growe without feeling . Nay , they do not so much : for the one doth performe the workes of nature which it is not taught to doe , but the others do forsake , & not follow the rules of Religion , which by reason , and instruction they are informed and required to doe . It is not then sufficient to say many prayers , and to continue long in prayer : for as one saith , the true effect of prayer consisteth not in bare words , nor in the multitude of wordes that wee speake , but in the cogitations and faithfull desires of the heart . And it is not our words , but our desires that enters into the secret eares of the All-hearing , Al-giuing , and Al-seeing God . How much then doe they wrong the Maiesty of God , and the saluation of their soules , which runne to prayers as vnto a stage play , without any preparation , without any Faith , or without any zeale , but heaping vp prayers , & yet scarce thinking what they say , or to whom they do pray .

The Astronomers affirme , that the Moone is Eclipsed , when the earth is interposed , betwixt her and the Sunne : so may it be auerred , that the meditations which we deliuer in praier , are much eclipsed and darkned , when earthly cogitations doe interpose betwixt the mind of man , & his diuine Meditation , which is the Sun shine & clearest light of his soule . Prayer vnto Gody , is i● secret conferrence with God : therefore Augustine calleth the booke of his prayers and meditations , his Soliloquium , that is , the alone talke or secret conference of his soule with God . How carefull , zealous and humble then ought wee to be in our conferre with so great a Lord , and our onely God ? For when any men doth conserue with his better ( especially with one that is farre his superiour ) as a Nobleman , a Prince , or any great personage , how circumspect will hee be to shewe all the signes of reuerence , and duty in word in gesture , and countenance ; and if he doe not vse all these obseruations , which may testifie his humility and obeisance vnto his superiour , he may feare to bee noted of presumption , and to incurre the displeasure of him , with whom hee conferreth . If then such ceremony and reuerence bee vsed and required in conference , betwxit man and man , how much more careful , watchfull , and fearefull , ought euery man to bee in prayer , which is his conference with God . Therefore hee that will pray vnto God effectually , ought in the time of prayer , wholly to exercise his mind and his senses in the constant , faithfull , deuout , and feruent calling vpon his Creator , hauing mind on no other matter , then on his meditations which he doth present , nor on any other person then his God , to whom hee doth deliuer them .

CAP. V. A preparation to prayer .

HAuing considered , and discussed somewhat the property of prayer to God , and what it is : the necessity , manner , and profit thereof , it will not be amisse , or vnnecessary , to shew something of the preparation that should be made , before we do enter into this holy exercise . For as before wee f●ll into any actiuity of the body , exercise of the mind , or other action of accompt , ( which wee desire should bee acceptable vnto them , before whom wee present the same ) there is alwayes some time of preparation taken , to the end the same may be the more exquisitely managed : so is it much more needfull , that before this spirituall , exercise of prayer , a sound preparation of the mind and soule should still be premised , otherwise it may fall out in this holy exercise as it doth in matters of far losse moment , that 〈◊〉 that is not well prepared ; may bee soone intrapped & distracted . The best rules therefore that my simple iudgement can affoord for preparation to prayer are these .

1 First , before wee begin our prayers , we should fall into some strict examination of our selues , touching our sinne , and the estate of our life ; wherein wee may best consider , what we had most need to craue at Gods hands .

2 Next , we must call to remembance the mercies of God , his iustice , his iudgments , and his wonderfull workes ; whereby in our prayers we may learne , and vse ( aswell as in the rest of our life ) to loue him for his mercies ; to feare him for his iustice , and iudgements , aswell as to magnifie him for his wonderfull workes ; which cogitations conioyned , may make our following meditations more perfect and profitable .

3 Thirdly , before wee fall vnto prayer , wee ought to sequester our senses from all wandering , idle , & vaine cogitations , and to cast away all euill thoughts as Helias did cast his Mantle to the earth , when he ascended to heauen : resoluing fully with the fauour of God ( whom we purpose then to serue ) not to entertaine any worldly thoghts that may with-drawe our deuotions from his diuine Maiesty , but to banish all passions , pleasures , and perturbations of the mind , and to recall vnto memorie , our last and most pressing sins , by an inward feeling of them , ioyned with repentance , & a purpose to pray for pardon and amendment .

Then being thus christianly resolued , we must yet before wee begin to pray , labour to bring with vs by faith , a liuely and a longing apprehension of Gods promises and mercies : and an vndoubted beleefe of his most iust & heauenly performance of that which he hath graciously promised , and we doe faithfully pray for .

Afterwards , when by meditation we haue made this passage for prayer , which requires faithfull & watchfull progresse , if yet wee finde , as vsually wee may finde , that any euill or vaine thoughts doe assalt vs , when we are comming on to this holy exercise , we must seeke euen at the first feeling thereof , to resist and reiect it , without giuing any kinde of small entertainement thereto : considering , that euill cogitations are of two kinds , either immitted or permitted : they are immitted by the frailty of the flesh , the temptations of Sathan , the weaknesse of the inner senses , being deluded by the obiects which the exterior senses ( especially the sight ) doth conuey vnto them : and these immitted euill cogitations , doe hurt the heauenly Meditations of our prayers : especially , when they are permitted to harbour and to remaine within vs . Therefore , as soone as any such temptations come towards vs in our prayers , we must presently pray vnto God , to strengthen our Faith , forgiue our frailty , and assist vs with his holy Spirit against such temptations .

Also , when wee begin , and after wee haue begun our prayers , we must bring with vs , and keepe with vs this consideration and resolution , not to seeke so much temporall as spirituall blessings at Gods hands . And if our necessities call vpon vs to craue temporal blessings ; yet let our desires be so farre limited , alwayes to submit our wills to Gods heauenly will : let vs begin to begge of God things spirituall , before temporal blessings , though both be necessary , and neither to be neglected .

To all this must bee added Charity , in pardoning offences that are committed against vs , according to the president & precept which our Sauiour himself hath set downe in that forme of prayer , which ought to be the rule of all our prayers ; and so reconciling our selues first by charity to our aduersaries , we may come with more cleere Consciences , and more acceptable sacrifice , in our supplications vnto God . For if wee aske forgiuenesse of our sins , and do not forgiue others , wee can find but little assurance to obtaine what we aske .

So then we see , it is not fit nor safe , to runne rashly vnto prayer , without preparation , premeditation , faith , repentance , reconciliation , and resistance of temptations .

CAP. VI. An entrance to Prayer .

HAuing prepared our mindes , and our heartes for Prayer , we may then most safely make our entrance into it , which consisteth chiefely of these parts ; Inuocation , Confession , La●ding or Thankesgiuing , & Supplication , Inuocation , is a calling or appellation on the name of God most high . Which declareth & denounceth the attributes belonging to the nature of God , and these doe concerne his Iustice , Mercie , Power , & his Prouidence . His Iustice , as a most iust God , who by thy Iustice doest distribute & dispose vnto all creatures , all that belongs , and is most fitte for them ; who therby dost gouerne and guide 〈…〉 and men , with all that is in heauen and earth .

His Mercy , as thus : Most mercifull and gracious God , whose mercy is aboue all thy other wonderfull workes , in pardoning and preseruing from destruction , and in sending thy Son to saue sinners .

The inuocation of Gods Power , may bee made after this manner . O God , of vnspeakeable power and might , which madest all things of nothing by thine owne onely word & wisedome , and art able at all 〈◊〉 ●●ing all this againe vnto nothing .

The inuocation of Gods prouidence , may be in this wise . O Lord God of wonderful wisedom , he whose prouidence all things are preserued , and from whose wisedome we haue all our knowledge and wisedom . These and the like inuocations , according to the appellation and declaration of Gods attributes uttered in this or the like sort , may serue as some instruction to the ignorant : so from Introduction and entrance into their prayer , vntill by practice they bee made more perfect , as the first part thereof , yet to be altered , amended , & augmented , as euery mans capacity and ability shall affoord him meanes .

Next to Inuocation in prayer , Confession hath her proper place . For if we haue offended God ( as there is no man but dayly and hourely doth it : then it is most needfull , 〈◊〉 first we do confesse our selues , before we ask any benifits .

This Confession is of two kindes , the one , generall ; the other , particular . That generall , as when one doth declare and deplore his greeuous sinnes , that hee is polluted with the same thoroughout all his parts and faculties : the latter which is a mention and recitall of seuerall sinnes , such as euery man may finde himselfe to bee most burdened with ; as those which were last committed , most fresh in memory ; namely , that this day , & of late I haue done these euils in thy sight : I haue seduced such personnes , I haue slandered my neighbour ; I haue in this denyed or darkened the truth ; I haue harbored these euil thoughts of such persons , without iust cause giuen ; I haue followed this vaine desire , affected this fond inuention presented to me by others , or entertayned by my selfe ; I haue not withstood such an euill worke , when I could haue done it ; I haue bene silent in such a cause , when I might haue made the truth manifest . And so of our seuerall sinnes either committed , whereof wee may take knowledge ; or of necessary duties omitted , which in Christian dutie wee ought to haue done , when wee make faithfull confession vnto God , ioyned with some repentance , and the same accompanied with acknowledgement & Thanksgiuing for mercies receiued , are the best preparatiues in our prayers .

After this , and the like , both generall and particular confessions of our sins in prayer vnto God ; a lauding , and a thankesgiuing for the blessings imparted vnto vs ( wherof we ought to be sensible , and not to be silent ) comes next in place . For it were vnseemly , inconuenient , and improuident , to ask any new good turnes of any man , before we return any shew of thankefulnesse for what good we haue receiued : so would it bee as vnbeseeming , and altogether as vnprofitable , for mortall man to pray vnto the immortal God , for any encrease of mercies ; before hee acknowledge those which haue beene formerly powred on him . The forme of this praise and thankesgiuing may bee made after this manner . We praise and magnifie thy Diuine Maiesty , most glorious God , for thy fauour and goodnesse extended alwayes on vs sinfull Creatures since our Creation , for giuing vs vnderstanding of thee , and of thy wil ; for preseruing , maintayning , and protecting vs more particularly for &c. Lastly , supplication , or petition is to be made ( especially for the pardoning of our sinnes , for freeing and keeping vs from falling into the same , or the like againe , for the obtayning of spirituall graces , and of temporall necessities for the pardoning of sinnes , it may bee in such like sort : Thou that art the God of mercy , shew mercie and compassion on me a most miserable sinner : Lord let thy mercie shine aboue all thy other works . Cast not thy louing countenance from me , bewayling my many & heynous transgressions . Lord God , thou seest our wantes and our weakenesse . I beseech thee strengthen me in body and in health . Blesse me in estate , that I may be the better able to serue thee , and imploy what thou shalt affoord , according to thy sacred will & pleasure .

The supplication for spirituall graces may be after this wise : Though wee haue deserued no goodnes hauing done so much euill ; yet according to thy wonted goodnes , grant vs such graces and heauenly gifts , as may make vs blessed in thy sight , and beloued of thy Saints Giue me a stedfast faith , an humble & contrite heart , penitence for all my sinnes past , watchfulnesse ouer my waies for time to come , zeale of thine honour and glory , a loue of thy truth , and of such as loue the same , an vnderstanding heart to discerne it , constancie in following and keeping thy commandements : teach me to examine mine owne heart , to search it strictly , to see if there yet remaine any hypocirsie or hollownesse in it : Take from mee the temptations of lust , vaine-glory , malice , sensuality , distrust & diffidence of thy power or mercy , that so through thy onely and all-able assistance , I may bee made of a sinfull soule , though not a perfect , yet an acceptable worshipper , of thee my Soueraigne Lord , and onely Sauiour .

Short Admonitions concerning the premises .

I Shall desire the charitable viewer of these imperfect rules concerning prayer , to conceiue that they are not set downe either to informe the learned , or any that are well exercised in prayer . But to giue some light vnto such as are young , simple , ignorant , or not much vsed to prayer .

Neither should any of them bee tied onely to these words or formes heere set downe , but it is in their choise to take the sence of the same , so farre as they shall finde it to further their good and godly indeauours in prayer . And if GOD shall indue them with better abilities , they may vse them , ought to be thankfull for that heauenly talent they haue , and not to hide or to abuse it .

A prayer for deuotion in prayer .

SInce all good gifts comes from thee , our gracious God , the author of all goodnes : grant vs thy speciall sauing grace of sanctified & feruent prayer , in frequent and zealous supplications . Wee haue it not of our selues , we seeke it of thee : nether can wee seeke it , without thou first send the motions thereof into our hearts and mindes : prepare vs therefore for this holy duty , grant vs the practice and power of it before we come to it ; touch our hearts with the remembrance of our sinnes , and repentance for the same . Call to our memorie and meditations , how slowe wee haue beene to present our selues to thy presence by prayer , how cold wee are in deuotion , how distracted in our thoughts , and how full of fantasies , and of fond imaginations , which draw our zeale and deuotion from thee , even in the time of praier , when our thoughts should bee pure , and our hearts onely setled vpon thy seruice : so that in stead of bringing a blessing , we bring iust curses to our selues , by these our more formall then faithfull praiers . O Lord , therefore infuse grace into our hearts , kindle zeale , fortifie our faith , let not our secure and sensuall seruice of thee , increase more of our abounding sinnes , nor adde more to thy deserued anger ; but be thou in the middest of vs , by thy assisting holy Spirit . When wee lift vp our hands , lift thou vppe our hearts vnto thee : when we speake vnto thee , speake thou peace vnto our Consciences : giue vs words to vtter , faith to beleeue , feruencie in our prayers , an earnest desire to abandon all euil affections , and loose carriage of our cogitations , and so closely to settle our soules vnto thy seruice . When we come to make our supplications before thy Maiesty , let this instant time of prayer , whilest we now speake , bee the beginning of our better seruice , and so continuing in the same , with humility , constancy , and fauour ; thou maiest haue the honour , and wee the benefit . To thee bee giuen all honour and glory , now and all times , Amen .

Morning prayer in a familie .

O Lord God , light of lights , thou that giuest light vnto our soules , and to our bodies ; thou that hast brought vs from the darknesse of this night , to see the comfortable light of this day ; bring vs from the darknesse of ignorance and of sinne , and from the corrupting of our soules , wherein wee haue liued both day and night . As thou hast raised vs from our rests to follow our callings ; so raise vs from security , sloath , dulnesse , distraction , lust , couetousnes , selfe-conceites , pride , and all other corrupt affections , which carry vs headlong after the vaine imaginations of our owne harts , and euill affections . Good Lord , when we go abroad about our worldly affaires , let not our mindes bee led altogether from heauenly meditations : but let thy blessed Spirit be our motioner , to put vs in minde of the shortnesse and vncertainty of our liues , let vs haue before our thoughts often , the sinnes wee haue committed , the good wee might haue done , and haue omitted ; the time wee haue mispent , either in doing no good at all , or in doing that is euill . And this ( good Lord ) teach vs to tell our selues , and our owne soules , not with wordes , onely comming from the lippes , but with inward sighs and groanes from the heart : and when through the assistance of thy holy Spirit thou hast made vs to search our sins , and to smite our hearts , then blesse thou the works of our hands in all our good endeauours : and as by the same our store doth encrease , our thankfulnes to thee may encrease : As thy blessings are bestowed , so our prayers & praises may bee rendred and redoubled . At our going out , in our rest , trauaile , and returne , bee thou with vs , by the blessing and assistance of thy holy Spirit ; let this day ( good Lord ) bee a beginning and a new birth day of faith , repentance for our sinnes , and of reconciliation to thy Maiesty ; that so thou mayest receiue vs to mercy . Let al the rest of our dayes be an amendment of our sinfull liues past . Blesse ( good Lord ) thy Church , our King , & his Realmes , with faith , truth , peace , and prosperitie ; guide the rest of the States of this land in their seuerall conditions & callings ; that both they and we may maintaine thy truth , set forth thy glory , keepe a good conscience to our selues , & shew charity one vnto another . So wee may liue in thy feare , dye in thy fauour , and after this mortall life is ended , we may enioy an immortall life with thee in heauen , there to magnifie , praise , and glorifie thy most glorious Name , world without end , Amen .

A Morning Prayer to be vsed in priuate .

THis day ( our good God ) appearing , and thy mercies appearing by our deliuerance from dangers this night past , and in the ordaining of dayes , and of all thy other workes : what praises shall we render for thy workes of Creation , and of preseruation ? If we should not praise thee , yet one day telleth another , and one night certifieth another ; but I most sinnefull soule , haue neyther expressed , nor felte what belongs to the visible workes of thy inuisible Maiesty ; neither can I comprehend it in thy workes , and made known by thy reuealed word : for thy Maiesty is so great , thy Wisedom so vnserchable , and thy Word so deepe , that I am not able to conceiue them . It sufficeth ( great God ) vnto thee that art al-sufficient in thy selfe , to expresse thy self vnto vs sinners , in such sort as we are able to apprehend thee . And I , one of the least and vnworthiest seruants , doe confesse my selfe to be a most greeuous sinner , in thought , word , and deede : I haue followed mine owne wicked fantasies , I haue broken thy commandements , and betrayed mine owne soule ; yet my hope is in thy mercie : and therefore in the beginning of this day , I beginne my prayers vnto thee ; teach me therefore to pray , that I may this day , and the rest of my life , call vpon thee , and praise thee through the assistance of thy power , which graunt vs good Lord .

A Prayer for the Euening in the Family .

MOst gracious God we thanke thee for our safe deliuerance this day , & the rest of our life from all daungers . That thou hast giuen vs food , health , rayment , with other things necessarie for our sustenance and sustentation . That thou hast not suffered vs to bee ouerwhelmed with cares , crosses , and calamities , whereto wee are subiect , whilst we lead this transitory life . That thou hast granted vs liberty to trauel in those affaires , to which our estates and necessities do call vs . These , and many other blessings , hast thou bestowed on vs this day , and from day to day vntill this present time . O Lord , as thou hast powred downe thy mercies vppon vs in great measure , so showre downe into our hearts those thy heauenly graces of thankefulnesse , faithfulnesse , fauour , and praises , that they may bee like vnto Dewe comming downe from Heauen ; which ascending vp thither againe , and so returning thence with retribution of encrease , may moisten our dry , hard , & stony hearts , and so bring forth fruits of Faith and Repentance , which may grow vp to the setting forth of thy glory , and the sauing of our owne poore sinnefull soules .

To this end good Lord , settle our hearts this Euening before , and when we go to bed ; as we cary with vs our corruptions , still plucking vnto our fraile bodies flesh and blood ; so yet with the assistance and strength by which we must walke , or else wee can neuer stand , we may bee led to the consideration of our owne mortality & miserable condition , that we are now aliue , and may die ere the next day ; that though we haue fedde plentifully this day , yet it may be we shall eate no more ; & that some of vs who heare and see one another now , shall neuer heare or see one another hereafter . For neyther of vs haue assurance to liue vntill the next day , to deliuer what wee haue done this night . Blessed God therfore , we beseech thee , euen at this instant time , begin to infuse grace into vs , to looke vpon our selues as corruptible , and to looke into our soules as they are ful of corruption , to make a true account at the least , of this daies trespasses , committed against thy holy & heauenly Maiestie , to mourne for it as much as we may , before sleepe the fore-shewer of death doth seize vpon vs , to pray vnto thee feruently , to aske thee forgiuenes ; to giue thee thanks for thy mercies , to lift vppe our hands and harts vnto thee , and at the least to say , Lord be mercifull vnto me a miserable sinner . This repentance , and this continuall practice of prayer , of praises , and of thankesgiuing , grant vs good Lord , and to all thy chosen children , for thy Sonne our Sauiour Christ Iesus sake .

A priuate Prayer for one going to bed .

THis day ( good Lord ) is spent ; so doe our liues spend : & as our time doth decrease , so do our sinnes encrease . We seeke riches and know not who shall enioy them : Wee couet children , wealth , and preferments , and are not assured to possesse them . And I that should know thus much , doe not consider what I know , nor weigh mine owne infirmities . I haue ( good Lord ) this day acted my part , with much frailty , and many faylings . I haue forgotten to call vppon thee my Soueraigne Lord ) this day , and most of the dayes of my life : my faith is weake , my vnderstanding is dull in diuine things , my memorie failes to retayne good things , though they bee taught me , my affections depriued and wandering after vaine , worldly , and wicked imaginations , the which carry mee from the keeping of thy Commandements . This ( O Lord ) I confesse , and better I am not able to do without thy assistance : yet keepe mee ( gracious God ) this night , and from henceforth , from further contagion of bodie and of soule ; let not my polutions in the works of darkenesse this night , be added to my former transgressions , but cleanse mee from that is past , and keep me from the like sins from time to time ; change the Old man in me by repentance and renouation , saue my soule , and teach me to set forth thy praise , both day and night .

Certaine Meditations , and short eiaculations of Praiers , to bee vsed in the night .

A Waking out of sleepe , let vs begin with some short prayers in this or the like sort .

My God , I am awaked againe : awake mee out of sinne , as thou hast done me out of sleepe .

Let my sleepe , wherein I had not the vse of my senses , teach mee not to driue out my daies in slumber , security , and impiety .

When I arise out of my bed , raise me vp to newnesse of life , repentaunce for my sinnes , and amendment of what I haue done amisse .

When mine eyes shall close againe , keepe mee in thy protection & safegard by thy power .

Now Lord defend me this night , and euer ; preserue me from danger , sin , and death .

Keepe me from concupiscence , lust , and vaine imaginations .

Knit my hart vnto thee .

Let my sleep be moderate and safe , so that I may rise better prepared for thy seruice .

A Prayer for deliuerance from temptations .

OVR fraile Natures , and our pronenesse to fall into all kind of sins , forceth vs , O Lord , ( if we would doe as wee should ) to flye vnto thee for our safety and saluation , and to call vpon thee , who art our stay and our strength , and who onely hast power to preserue vs : beseeching thee , that thou wilt be pleased , either to put vs from those temptations which of our selues wee are not able to withstand . Teach vs O Lord , to wrestle with sinne and with Sathan by prayers & reparations , framed and fitted by the inspiration of thy holy Spirit : and when these temptations are offered , offer vnto vs thy ●elping hand , to stand stedfast in faith , with feare to offend thee . Let vs then , when these temptations come , say vnto our selues , Lord , thou seest all , and thou wilt punish vs ; Lord help , and Lord deliuer vs , and for my sinfull weake selfe , saue mee from these violent assaults of Sathan . I cannot defend my selfe , he thou therfore my shield and buckler , my corrupt nature is ready to yeelde ; the contagions of others , the allurements of the world , and wicked persons are ready to enthrall me : yet if thou ( my mercifull God ) strengthen me , I shall be able by thy assistance to stand ; If thou ( my Sauior ) stretch out thy shield and speare of defence , I shall with Peter ( being almost sunke ) walke safe on the waters of strife . Helpe therefore Lord , for vaine is the helpe of man . Put from vs Pride , Presumption , Luxury , Lust , Selfe-conceite , Couetousnesse , want of deuotion , Malice , Mischief , Vnbeleefe , hardnesse of heart , & such like sinnes , which are the subiects subiects of our temptations : or if any such assault vs , or come neere vs , let them not take such holde on vs to throw vs downe , that we be not able to rise any more ; but in the comming , or before the preuailing of our temptations , support , deliuer , and saue vs . So shall we giue thee laud for euer and euer , Amen .

¶ A Prayer for patience , in time of wants and disgraces .

IT is iust with thee ( O Lord ) and I haue iustly deserued , that thou shouldest send me some wants and small disgraces , after thou hast giuen me prosperitie , plenty , and sufficiencie : when not vsing thy blessings well , and neglecting the meanes thou hast affoorded for my maintainance , I am faln from that I had ( which was sufficient ) to want some things for my necessary vse . And yet my wants are not so great as my sinnes are , or as they haue deserued . Since then , howsoeuer my estate , or my estimation is in this world , I do beseech thee graunt me patience to beare this , or whatsoeuer crosse it pleaseth thee to lay vpon mee , and to acknowledge that I my selfe am the cause of it . And so , when thou hast brought me home vnto thy self , by the acknowledgement of my selfe , and of my sinnes , comfort me againe , according to thy eternall wisedome , that I bee neyther dismaide with aduersitie , or puffed vp with prosperity : but if it be thy good pleasure , that pouerty shall still pursue mee ; prepare me with patience to beare this crosse , though hard for flesh and blood : yet once obtaining the victorie by thy sole strength , ouer this inward enemy , & my infirmities sticking closest vnto me , I may possesse my soul in peace : and whatsoeuer becomes of my worldly estate , the spiritual state of my soul may be safe , & I saued , thorow thy abundant mercies , Amen .

A Prayer in time of sicknesse .

MOst gracious Father , we confesse and wee are driuen to confesse , wee haue deserued plagues , pestilence , and other sicknesses whereto we are subiect of our selues , aswell by the naturall infection of our bodies , whereby one taketh contagion from another , as by our spirituall pollutions , whereby our sinnes , being the inward festring sores , doe ascend vnto the Tribunall in heauen , calling and crying for vengeance on the earth , & on the sonnes of men , the inhabitants and Rulers of the earth . The effects of this ( good Lord ) we haue often and visibly seene , though wee doe not well consider the cause . Wee feele the stroke , but do not see the hand that strikes ; neither do we well weigh what moues that hand to bee stretched out agaynst vs .

Now the sicknesse thou hast sent vs , makes vs to looke somewhat about vs , and to feel that which our flesh can easily find ; paine , anguish , aches , & torments comming from the body , to the mind . But ( O Lord ) we are not so sensible of that which concernes the sicknesse of the soule . Yet in this time of our visitation , whilest paine and perill doth oppresse vs , teach vs to take this as an information of our infirmities : heale vs ( good Lord ) inwardly in the diseases of our soules , and keepe vs from those corruptions of our naturall affections , which draws vs vnto fond desires , with false and foolish appetites , the procurers of these our bodily diseases .

O Lord yet cleanse vs within from our sins , and then we shal be cured from our corporall sicknes ; but if it be thy blessed will to continue this Contagion , yet comfort and support vs during the time of sicknesse . Make thou ( good Lord ) our beddes and bodies , such as may make vs able to vndergo our sickenesse ; comfort vs with the inward consolation of thy holy Spirit , & when cold , heat , coniunction , or succession of either comes , then O Lord , in the time of extremity , whilest Na●u●e is distempred , our bodi●s dis●ased , & our minds distracted , betwixt feare of death , danger of our estate , care of our children , friends , kindr●d , and family , wee may y●t receyue a sweet repose from the influence of thy holy Spirit , to rest content with thy good will and pleasure ; with a reference and relying on the same , for resolution of life , or of death . So may wee , by thy assistance , say still and peaceably vnto thee , in the sincerity of our owne soules ; We are heere now ( good Lord ) at thy disposing , do with vs what thou wilt . Only make vs able to bear our owne infirmities , and thy visitations with faith : help vs in the time of this wea●nesse , and danger of this disease ; if thou giue life , graunt amendment of life ▪

If thou appoint death , grant vs preparation for our dissolution ; Repentance for our sinnes , and a ioyfull assurance of thy mercies : the bodie is weake , the flesh trem●les , the Spirit is troubled . O thou the giuer of life , and the disposer of death , when sense is dull or distracted , infuse thy Spirit to temper it , and to turne vs vnto thee : dispose our harts so , that whither life or death do come , they may bee alike welcome vnto vs , and we may entertaine either , according to thy good wil and pleasure . Arme vs against the feare of death : if life be graunted , graunt wee may leade a new life , setting forth thy glory .

If death be designed , let the period of this life bee finished in thy praises , lift vp our hearts at the last gaspe . And now at this instant , plant in my heart faith to beleeue in thy sauing health , feruencie to pray for it , courage to endure the conflicts of sickenesse , and of sinne , and in the end a blessed death , and a ioyfull resurrection , thorow Iesus Christ our Lord , Amen .

A prayer for knowledge .

THou ( O great and gracious God , ) who art the light of our liues , and the Conseruer of all sauing knowledge , enlighten our vnderstanding with the true knowledge of thee , of our selues , and of the wayes wherein we should walke . And although we can neuer in this world knowe thee as thou art , being inuisible , & infinit in goodnesse and in greatnes ; yet giue vs such , and so much knowledge of thee , as our capacities can comprehend , and thy will is to reueale . Let vs attaine to so much knowledge , as to see thy wonders in thy works and thy good pleasure reuealed in thy word : if that which thou hast not reuealed of thy selfe , let vs bee satisfied with what thou hast reuealed in thy word .

Of the first , let our naturall inquisition of thy supernaturall power , weaken or preiudice our faith : And in that knowledge which thy word deliuereth , let vs not be content with a weake and meane measure , but couet to come vnto that knowledg which may strengthen our faith , informe our consciences , and reforme our liues . In the knowledge of our selues , teach vs to consider and know our owne weaknesse and wickednesse , our frailtie and manifold infirmities , our sinnes and transgressions against thy holy and heauenly Maiesty .

For the knowledge of our owne wayes , grant vs warinesse and watchfulnes to see and finde out our faylings in the keeping of thy Commandements : our feare , plainly to professe thy truth , thorow doubt of danger , scoffe , or losse : the smal account we make of thy good things wee leaue vndone , or do amis , of the euill wee haue committed : And when ( good Lord ) thou hast rightly instructed vs in the knowledg of thee , by thy works and word ; of our selues , in finding and confessing our sinnes : and of our owne wayes , by acknowledging them to be wandering by-paths ; then bring vs home vnto thee , to pray vnto thee , and praise thee in this life , and in the life to come , Amen .

A prayer to be kept from all vncleannesse of our Lustes .

O Most eternall and gracious GOD , thou art pure and perfect ; but we are most impure and polluted : all the faculties of our soules are full of corruptions , and our bodyes are fraught with infirmities : those parts of our bodies and of our mindes , which should be the seruants of our soules , doe draw vs to be slaues to euil affections : Our eyes which are ordained to behold & contemplate the wonderful workmanship of the world , and of all the creatures therein contained , do commonly become like vnto sluces and flood-gates , to carrie and conuey lust and Concupiscence vnto our harts ; and our harts which shold be as Clossets to keep thy Commandements , are for the most part , made the members and instruments of sinne and of Satan . This ( O Lord ) we confesse is our wofull and wretched condition .

Yet thou ( O most mercifull God ) art able to cleanse vs from these contagions of our vncleane lusts , purge vs ( we beseech thee ) and we shall be pure : keepe vs from inward infections of our owne euill imaginations , & from outward temptations , which lasciuious sights and dalliance● , and fleshly prouocations pull vpon vs , and that by the assistance of thy holy Spirite , when these temptations assalt vs , pray vnto thee , beseeching thee to be our buckler and our strength in the time of our weaknesse ; our stay when we are ready to fall , and that by thy power wee may resist and repel all the sensuall and fleshly lustes which are in vs , and fight against vs . Wee haue no helpe , nor no hope but in thee : defend vs , giue vs the victory , and take the glory vnto thy selfe : deliuer vs from these noysome lusts , and giue vs grace to giue thee praise , to whom all honor belongeth . So be it good Lord , Amen .

A Prayer before the hearing of the Word preached .

THy Word ( O Lord ) is a light vnto our feete , and a Lanterne vnto our paths . Thy word preached is the propagation of thy glorious Gospell , it is the seed that fructifies knowledge & conscience . Let it not therefore be as good seede sowen in barren soyle ; but first clense the weedes and corruptions which growe in the vnfallowed fields of my heart . And then ( most gracious God ) when thou hast remoued those impediments of faith and feruency : make my heart by hearing thy holy word , a harbour of sanctitie and sincerity . And in this ( O Lord ) prepare me to hear , to beleeue , to receyue , retaine , and to remember the lessons that shall bee taught out of thy Sacred Word ; take away in the hearing thereof , all drowsinesse , distraction , and coldnesse of zeale .

In this I pray not onely for my selfe , but for the people in all places professing thy trueth , for their profit , and for thy glorie . Send forth Labourers into thy Vineyard , teach them to plant : make vs to be plyant in hearing , learning , and following . So shall wee haue sustenance vnto our soules ; reape the fruites of those fields that thou hast giuen vs : and we shall giue vnto thee nothing but what is thine , and belongs to thy Maiestie , which is all honour , glory , praise , and dominion , thorow Iesus Christ our onely Lord & Sauiour , Amen .

A Prayer after the hearing of a Sermon .

MOST mercifull and mighty gouerner of heauen & of earth , amongst all thy blessings multiplied vpon mankind , there is nothing doeth more magnifie thy Maiesty , or helpe the infirmities of vs miserable Creatures , then the manifestation of our weakenes and wickednesse , in the reuelation of both , and reconciliation of thy selfe ( after all our infinite transgressions ) thorow the suffering of thy Sonne , his mediation , and the Ministerie of the word preached . Of this ( O Lord ) we haue bin vnprofitable hearers and learners . We haue heard with our eares , but yet we haue beene vnprofitable hearers . We haue not felt and followed that we haue heard : we haue bene told , and plainely taught our sinnes , but wee haue not amended them , nor truly repented for our misdeeds . We haue learned somewhat , though but little ; haue performed and practised lesse , the fault is ours : yet let it not ( good Lord ) stand in the way of thy grace , to stop from vs good things : but as thou hast prouided for vs the word of life , and hast conueied it by thy conducter , men like our selues , the Ministers and Preachers of thy Gospell ; so graunt that we go not from this exercise of preaching and publishing thy holy word , like vnto empty vesselles , which whilst they are moued and strucken vpon yeeld some sound ; but afterwards lying still , afford neyther sweetnes , sauour , nor good liquor . O Lord blesse & fructifie our hearing , make vs not onely hearers , but dooers of thy word : make it a sauour of life vnto life , and not of death vnto death : teach vs thereby to amend our liues , to increase knowledge and conscience , to yeelde comfort in afflictions , strength and support in temptations , and when we shall depart the world , we may carry with vs a testimony of good Consciences , that we haue profited by the word , haue thereby learned to loue our Brethren , to forsake sinne , to imbrace righteousnesse , to liue and to die well , and that by faith in Iesus Christ our Lord , Amen .

A Prayer before the receiuing of the Lords Supper .

BLessed Lord , wee do not presume to present our selues before thee , in the receyuing of this Sacrament , & celebration of thy Sonnes last Supper , as beleeuing we are of our selues worthy to be partakers of thy heauenly banquet . For we acknowledge our great & greeuous sinnes , our manifold mistakings , our vnbeleefe , vncharitablenesse , hardnesse of heart , selfe-loue , pride , and presumption , with many other transgressions , wherby we are made most vnworthie to come vnto thy heauenly Table . Yet , O Lord , as it is thy holy Ordinance , instruct and help vs to do that which may make vs more meete partakers of this spirituall Manna . To this end , take from vs our corruptions and carelesnesse in thy seruice : graunt vs true repentance for our sinnes past , for the trespasses that we haue committed against thee and those that professe thy trueth . Lord , euen now giue mee thy vnworthy seruant ( being so vnable of my selfe to doe this , or any other spirituall duty ) a right and regenerated heart , a sanctified soule , purged from former pollutions , by thy power , and the grace of thy holy Spirite ; a desire to forgiue all men , and to be forgiuen of all men , to forsake sinne , to follow thy holy Lawes . Suffer not Sathan to worke in me his will any more , but that as I now come to receyue this Sacrament , so I may be a partaker of the benefites of our Sauiours death and suffering , wherof this is a symbole : that thorow his death sinne may dye in me , and thorow his resurrection , I may rise to newnesse of life .

A Prayer after the receiuing of the holy Communion .

WEE blesse and praise thy holie name ( O heauenly Father ) that amongst all thy innumerable benefits thou hast bestowed , this is not the least but greatest mercie vppon mankinde , to send thy Sonne our Sauiour into the world to suffer for vs sinners , to redeeme vs from life to death , to lay downe his owne life to saue vs from damnation . This thy mercie , as it is vnspeakeable and vnualewable , O Lord wee acknowledge it to bee so great , that we cannot giue thee condigne prayses , but doe pray thee to accept our weake sacrifices in the Eucharisticall reioycing & rendering of laud vnto thee , for the suffering of thy Sonne , to offer himselfe vnto death , euen for them that were become enemies to our gracious God , breakers of thy Couenants , defilers of thy Sabaths , haters of truth , truce breakers , loaden with sin , and voyde of grace .

Now most mercifull Lord God , that thou hast vouchsafed vs this fauour to approach vnto thy blessed Table , and to renew the seale of the Couenant ; graunt likewise for a farther addition of grace , & for the increase of thy glorie , that we may approach neerer and neerer vnto thee , by newnesse of life , watchfulnesse ouer our owne wayes , firmenesse in faith , constancie in keeping thy Commandements , obedience to thy holy word and will , and this thorow the helpe of thee our Lord , which only art able to saue those that serue thee , Amen .

A prayer in the time of vnseasonable weather .

THe heauens , the earth , and all the Creatures therein contained , thou ( O Lord ) hast ordained : thou in thy eternall counsell and prouidence , hast appoynted seasons of the yeere fit to produce and propagate things needfull for the sustenance and vse of man , and hast vsually sent weather fit for those seasons : but our sinnes , which onely make a seperation betwixt thee and vs , haue caused some alterations of these seasons , & hath sent many times vnseasonable weather , wherby the fruits of the earth haue not come to their full ripenes , the Cattle haue not theyr nourishment , and man by this meanes wants things necess●ry . All this , and other thy chastisements , we confesse do come from the demerits of our owne sinfull liues , which draw on deseruedly , thy iust indignation .

Yet ( O Lord ) since only thy mercie can free vs from miseries , first free vs from our sinnes the causes of them , and then from the punishment they haue procured . Make our harts cleane , so make the weather seasonable , vs moderate in the vse of thy creatures , them holsome to vs , and with the amendment of the weather amend our liues , and forgiue our sins . So chaunge vs , that thy chastisement may be taken away , and by this let vs learne to consider thy power , to confesse thy mercie , and to set foorth thy praise , throughout all ages , Amen .

A Prayer to be vsed when dearth and scarsity comes .

O Most gracious Lord God , thou which diddest permit Iosephs Brethren to sell , & to send him into Egypt , that hee being carried from his father into a strange Country , might there in time of most want and necessitie , after the ouer-passing of his owne afflictions , be able to make prouision , not onely for his Fathers Family , but also for his countrey , from which hee was carried : So wee ( good Lord ) being solde by our owne selues vnto sinne & Sathan , thereby carried into the Egypt of Ignorance and Iniquitie , doe beseech thee by thine owne mercies , to grant vs true repentance , that the scarsity thou hast sent , may bee remooued . Encrease our Faith , zeale , sorrow for our sins , with amendment of life ; and therewith encrease our store , the fruits of the earth , and prouision of the Land , that hauing sufficiencie , wee may therewith haue content , and thankefulnesse .

Comfort vs in thy mercies and consolations in the continuance of thy loue . Let vs not ( O Lord ) with the prodigall Sonne , mispend our times , estates , and thy blessings , but with the penitent Publican , lift vp our hearts and hands vnto Heauen , & say still from the heart , God be mercifull vnto vs miserable sinners . So good Lord , take away this dearth , and our sinnes , which will bring vs vnto death .

A Prayer in time of plague and pestilence .

THe Contagion and corruption of our bodies comming ( O Lord ) from the sinnes of our soules , brings all the diseases of our bodies , and dangers of our liues . So are we filled with infection , which threatneth death vnto vs , when as we see others dayly die before our eyes . Since then ( good Lord ) thou giuest vs a sight , and continual representation of our mortality , giue vs also a sense and a true feeling , with a thorow repentance of all our sinnes past , the causers of all our woe , distresse , and perill : and as our first parent by his fall , and our naturall parents by theyr transgressions , haue drawn vppon themselues and vs , death and destruction , and we our selues by our actuall iniquities , haue added more curses to our particular persons , and to the publike state wherein wee liue : so yet ( good Lord ) remember thy Couenant of Grace ; remember the Sonne of thy loue , and his sufferings , whom thou hast sent into the world , for the redemption of mankinde : let these thy former and long continued mercies , mooue thee to continue thy compassion , in remoouing thy iudgements from vs , in renewing the graces of thy holy Spirit , in teaching vs to repent , and renounce our former euill liues .

Then let thy Angel and Messenger of good tydings , our Mediator , sprinkle the postes and doores of our hearts , with the blood of that Paschall Lambe , who hath shedde his blood for the sinnes of the world in such sort , that receiuing grace from thy all-giuing grace , our sins and punishments for the same may cease , and wee may with purified hearts after all our pollutions , learn to publish thy praise ; and hauing receyued deliuerance for the contagion of soule and of bodie , may be made instruments of thy glory , both in this world , and in the world to come .

A Prayer for increase and continuance of spirituall giftes and graces .

O Almighty God ; though wee are weake , and not strong of our selues , specially in the spirituall graces which might make vs beutifull corner-stones in thy Celestiall building , yet thou ( good Lord ) who hast created Heauen and Earth , and doest conserue all heerein contayned , art able by thy wonderfull Workemanship , not onely to begin , and to beget , but to increase and to preserue in our hearts the seedes of humility , penitence , patience , piety , zeale , and other good sauing Graces . We are thy creatures , and thou our Creator : therefore though we haue long dwelt in darkenesse , yet now send vs the light of thy countenance , to enlighten our vnderstanding : the seale and testimony of thy holy Spirit , to assure our hearts and consciences of thy loue , and of our saluation .

To this end , giue vs fortitude and corage to maintaine thy cause , and to defend the trueth ; a subduing power to master our owne lustes , and to subdue our sinnes ; wisedome from aboue , to withstand the assaults of Sathan ; so of Captiues made Conquerors , and of slaues vnto sinne and sathan , made subduers of them both . We may by the same thy mercy and power , magnifie thy Maiesty , hallow thy name , not only in this world , but in the world to come , thorow all Ages , euen euerlastingly . So be it , and so cause it to be done good Lord , Amen .

A Prayer to bee prepared for death .

OVr liues good Lord ) we see are short , and most vncertain , our souls are full of sinne , our selues are subiect to many dangers , wee couet possessions and preferments , but know not how long wee shall enioy them , nor are wee assured who shall haue them , when we leaue this life . Most mercifull God , teach vs so to meditate , and so to measure this spanne , and short space of fading life , that finding how fraile it is , wee may passe this our pilgrimage , in a conscionable course ; not mispending time in vaine or vicious liuing , waiting for the time of our dissolution , awaking our spirits from sin and security , wherein we haue laien as in a slumber , drawing on to death . Good God giue vs faith in the blood of thy Son , repentance for our former euill wayes , reconciliation by thy mercies , and the mediation of our Redeemer . Shut vp our exterior sences from those obiects of sinne , which betraid our soules ; settle our interiour sences to repose : freed by thy fauours , from Passion , Anger , Ambition , Concupiscence , Couetousnesse , Lust , Vncharitablenesse , Vnbeleefe , and all other wickednesse which defile and destroy our soules ; so being purged from our polutions , and being guarded and guided by thy good gouerning Spirite , wee may make this life a meditation of death ; the time to come , a cure of former trespasses ; and the conclusion of all , to be thy glory , the good of thy Church , the maintenance of thy trueth , & finally the saluation of our soules , through Iesus Christ our Lord , Amen .

A prayer to be vsed when death drawes neere .

O LORD , this sinful and vncertaine life , which I haue led , being now drawne neere amend , I bese●ch thee , that hast hitherto prolonged life , and now doest dispose death , purge me from my sinnes past , by the precious blood , and powerfull death of thy Son our Sauiour Christ Iesus , in his wounds , and by his sufferings wash away our sins . In this short season of my time almost all spent , grant me hearty repentance , for my transgressions a longing desire of a better life , a change not onely from my corruptions , but from all my former failings ; and as natural strength growes weaker , so grant that spirituall Graces in mee may grow stronger .

Helpe Lord to quicken my sinfull sences , to quiet my conscience with assurance of thy fauour and mercy . Be with mee , by thy all-assisting aide , as in my life so at my death ; that neither sinne , death , nor hell may haue the conquest ouer mee , but so strengthned & saued : commending my spirite and soule vnto thy safeguard , thou that hast made it , will vouchsafe to saue it : for thy Sonne , and for thy owne mercies sake . I come Lord , come thou vnto me . I faint ; Lord strengthen me . My life departs , yet saue my sinfull soule . Lord I come , helpe me to come vnto thee . Lift vp mine eyes , my hands , my heart , Lord receiue and saue my soule .

Let this last sentence be often said as long as speech doth last ; and bee inwardly conceiued when words cannot bee vttered .

FINIS .

The Table . A Prayer for deuotion in prayer . 58 Morning prayer in a Family . 61 A morning prayer to be vsed in priuate . 66 A prayer for the Euening in the Family . 68 A priuate prayer for one going to bed . 73 Certaine Meditations , and short eiaculations of prayers , to bee vsed in the night . 75 A praier for deliuerance from temptations . 77 A prayer for patience in time of wants and d●sgraces . 80 A prayer in time of sicknes . 83 A prayer for knowledge . 89 A prayer to bee kept from all vncleannesse of our lustes . 92 A prayer before the hearing of the word preached . 96 A prayer after the hearing of a Sermon . 99 A prayer before the receyuing of the Lords Supper . 103 A prayer after the receiuing of the holy Communion . 106 A prayer in the time of vnseasonable weather . 109 A prayer to be vsed when dearth & scarsity comes . 112 A Prayer in time of plague and pestilence . 115 A Prayer for increase and continuance of spirituall giftes and graces . 119 A prayer to bee prepared for death . 124 A prayer to bee saide when death drawes neere . 127 FINIS .