A generall exhortation to Prayer .

FOr as much , as the best of Gods Children , are subiect to many infirmities : and euen the iust man , falleth seuen times a day ; Pro. 24.16 . and that mans life ( by reason of sinne ) is exposed to many dangers , troubles , and afflictions : Therefore it standeth vs much vpon , and concerneth vs neerely , to seeke out some remedy , as well to strengthen out selues , against the assaults of our spirituall enemies , that ( as neere as may be ) we fall not : as to raise vs againe , when we are cast downe and deiected , either by the sight of our sinnes , or by the crosses and afflictions of this life . And in this distresse , what course shall we think vpon to relieue vs , or what means shall we finde out to aid and succor vs ? Certainely no other , then that , which God himselfe , of his goodnesse , hath prescribed , and commended to vs , In regard of Gods Precept . yea , and hath commaunded vs to haue recourse vnto , whensoeuer we shall be thus afflicted , namely Prayer to him . Call vpon me ( saith he ) in the day of trouble . Psal. 50.15 . Come vnto me ( saith Christ ) all ye that labour and are heauy laden . Mat. 11.28 . Seeke yee the Lord ( saith he by the Prophet ) and call vpon him . Esa. 55.6 . And is any afflicted ? Ia 5.13 . ( by the Apostle ) Let him pray . And the better to stirre vs vp to this duty , God hath added to this Precept of his , a promise also : His promise . that we shall not loose our labors , or pray to him in vaine . For no sooner shall we aske , but he will giue , Mat. 7.7 . Io. 16.23 . Psal. 91.15 . no sooner call , but he will answere and deliuer : Nay more , for if God perceiue our inclination to pray vnto him , he will preuent vs : and before we call , he will answere , Esa. 65.24 . and while we are speaking , he will heare . Christs example . And as we haue Gods precept and promise , to prouoke vs to Pray vnto him , so also haue we the Example , ( not only of all the Saints of God , but ) of Christ Iesus himselfe , Mat. 14.23 . 26.39 . Io. 11.47 . Mar. 1.35 . who while he was conuersant in the flesh vpon Earth , ( though he were wholly without spot or blemish , wholly innocent , and immaculate , yet ) often , and earnestly prayed .

The Necessity . Among all the Euangelicall Precepts or Councells , there is not any one Duty , vpon which our Sauiour more earnestly beateth , or to which , he , with more feruency inciteth his Apostles and Disciples , then to this , of Prayer . The necessitie whereof , hee enforceth ( amongst other places of Scripture ) in the parable of the vniust Iudge , Luc. 18. and the poore importunate widow : intimating thereby vnto vs , that of necessity ( if wee hope to receiue any good , or auoid any euill ) wee must keepe our selues , to this holy Duty , of earnest Prayer . The Dignity . And if there were no necessity imposed on vs to pray , yet the Dignitie and Honour wee receiue by prayer , is sufficient to incite vs to it . For Prayer , ( as a father well saith ) is a familiar conference with God . Ep●… . By it , wee talke with him ( as it were ) face to face . By other of his Graces , ( as in the Word and Sacraments ) hee vouchsafeth to speake to vs , by this , wee haue accesse , and speake to him , for what we stand in neede of . And what greater Dignity , what greater priuiledge , can be affoorded , to poore sinfull creatures ( Dust and Ashes as we are ) then familiarly to talke with so great and powerfull a God ; and to haue dayly , so free , and easie admittance to his presence , to manifest our necessities to him , and to craue his supply and succour . Then , The Benefit . if wee consider the profit , which ariseth by the due performance of this Dutie , wee shal be the easilier drawne to performe it : for if nothing else quicken vs , yet matter of Benefit doth vsually worke with vs . And assuredly , the benefit which ariseth by it , is , and euer hath beene , great . For by prayer , we doe not only obtaine of God , all good things pertaining to this life , as the necessaries thereof ; and to the life to come , as the gifts and graces of his Holy Spirit : but also we auoide , preuent , and remoue by it , all the dangers and euils of both liues ; as the losses and dangers incident to this life , and the punishment due to our sinnes hereafter .

If you please , you may take a short view of the wonderfull effects which haue been wrought , and the benefits , which haue been obtained ; and the punishments , which haue beene auerted , in former times , when recourse was had to God , by Prayer .

By it The Iewes ouercame The Amalekites . Exo. 17. Samuel ouercame The Philistims . 1. Sam. 7. Iudith ouercame Holofernes . Iudeth 13. The Reubenites ouercame The Agarens . 1. Chr. 5.20 . Asa ouercame The Ethiopians . 2. Chro. 14. Iosaphat ouercame The Ammonites . 2. Chro. 20. Ezechias ouercame Sennacherib . 2. King . 19.15 . Manasses was restored to his kingdome . 2. Chr. 33.15 .

By it Hanna became fruitfull . 1. Sam. 1.9 . Elias obtained fire from Heauen , 1. King . 18. as also raine and faire weather . Iames 5.

By it The rebellious Iewes escaped Punishment . Exod. 32. Num. 21.7 . The Niniuites escaped Destruction . Ion. 3. Ezechias escaped Death . 2. Kings 20. The 3 Children escaped The fierie Fornace . Dan. 3. Daniel escaped The Lions . Daniel 6. Ionas escaped The Whale . Ion. 2. The Disciples escaped Drowning . Mat. 8.25 . Peter escaped Bonds . Acts 12. Paul and Silas escaped Imprisonment . Acts 16. Dauid stayed the Pestilence . 2. Sam. 24. The Lepers were cleansed . Luc. 12. The Centurions seruant was healed . Mat. 8. The blinde receiued sight . Mat. 9.20 . Luc. 18. The womans daughter . The mans son . were deliuerd from the deuill . Mat. 15.17 .

By it The sicke were made whole . Act. 28. The widow of Sarepthas son 1. King . 18. The Shunamites son 2. King . 14. The Rulers daughter Mat. 9. Dorcas . Act. 7. were reuiued . The Publican obtayned Remission of sinnes . Luc. 18. The Theife obtayned Paradice . Luc. 23. St. Stephen obtayned Heauen . Act. 7.

Directions how to pray . Now seing , that for these respects Pray we must , in the next place we are to consider , How prayer is to be made , that it turne not to sinne .

1. To God only . First , prayer must be made to God , and to none other . 1. Because God hath so commanded . a a Deut. 6.13 . For prayer is a part of his Seruice and Worship : And his Seruice and Glory he will impart to none else . b b Mat. 4.10 . Him onely shalt thou serue . And c c Io. 19.23 , Io. 4.21 . whatsoeuer you shall aske of my Father , not of Angels , Saints or the like . 2 In regard of his Glory and Maiesty , Psal. 24.8 . 96,6 . 99,2 , 104.1 . wherein he excelleth all others , and ought therefore aboue all , to be prayed vnto . 3 In regard of his Singular Knowledge ; Lue. 11.13 . for he knoweth our necessities , better then wee our selues . 4 In regard of his Power and Ability to helpe vs . Esa. 40.10.12 . Psal 66.2 . Psal. 17.6 , 18,6 . 103. Esa. 46.4 . 5 In regard of his willingnesse and readinesse to relieue vs . 6 In respect of the practise of all the Saints , and of Christ himselfe .

Of a a 1. Sam. 1 15. Hanna . b b Psal. 25,1 . 73,25 5.1 , 77,1 . Dauid . c c Psal. 22.4 . of the Saints . d d Mat. 14.23 of Christ .

7 In regard of the absurditie in praying to those , which cannot helpe themselues , much lesse vs . For to which of the Saints or Angels can be properly said , Our Father which art in Heauen , or hallowed bee thy Name &c. But to God alone , Esa. 43.11 , 45.5 . is this seruice to be done ; for he onely saueth vs , and besides him is no Sauiour .

2. In Faith . Secondly , our prayers ought to be made in Faith : for whatsoeuer is not of faith , is sinne : and whosoeuer desireth to haue good successe in his prayers , ought to beleeue , and not to pray waueringly . Our Sauiour said to the petitioner for his deafe and dumb son , If thou canst beleeue , al things are possible to him that beleeueth . Mat. 9.23 . And to his Disciples . 21.22 . All things whatsoeuer ye shall aske in prayer beleeuing , ye shall receiue : which lesson also Saint Iames teacheth in his first Chapter . Ia. 1.5.6 . If any man lacke Wisedome , let him aske of God , &c. But let him aske in faith .

3. In Hope . Thirdly , as faith is the foundation , and first vertue required in prayer . So Hope , certaine and assured , is to bee fixed and setled in vs ( when we Pray ) that God wil performe the promises which he hath made , Psal. 22.4.121 . and that hee will heare and grant those things , which we shall desire , according to his Will.

4. In Charity . And that our prayers may the better ascend , they are to put on the wings of Charity , which is one of the fruits of the holy Spirit : Gal. 5.21 . For without this quality , our prayers will proue cold , heauie , and lumpish ; and will returne empty vnto vs . This Charity is two fold . First , towards God . Secondly , towards our Neighbour . 1. Towards God , in keeping his commandements : for our Sauiour saith , Io. 14.21,23 . Hee that keepeth my commandements , is he that loueth me : and the Apostle saith , 1. Ioh. 3.22 . Wee receiue of him , because wee keepe his commandements : that is , we loue him so , that wee are loth to offend him . 2. Towards our Neighbour : which Charitie , is also manifested two waies . 1. In forgiuing all iniuries receiued from him , or by his meanes after our Sauiours rule . Mat. 11.25 . When you stand praying , forgiue , if you haue ought against any : that your Father also , which is in Heauen , may forgiue you your trespasses . And againe , Mat. 6.14.15 . if you forgiue men their trespasses , your Heauenly Father will also forgiue you : But if you forgiue not men their trespasses : neither will your Father forgiue your trespasses . 2 Secondly , in praying for his wants , and supplying them to our powers , according to Saint Iames direction . Ia. 5.16 . 1. Tim. 2.1 . Pray for one another . And to Saint Paul , I exhort , that first Prayers &c. bee made for all men . And to encourage vs to relieue them , our Sauiour pronounceth a blessing to all that are charitable in that kinde . Blessed are the mercifull , Mat. 5.7 . for they shall obtaine mercy .

So that by this , we may plainly see , that if we be vncharitable ; our prayers wil be barren , and vnfruitfull .

5. Humility . Fifthly , with these , Humility must goe along : for by it , wee acknowledge with the Publican , Luc. 18. ( whom our Sauiour commended to vs for a patterne ) our owne vnworthinesse to deserue any fauour ; which Humility ( as appeareth by that story or parable ) made his prayer more acceptable to God , then the vaunting and boasting of the proud Pharise . And Dauid saith , Psal. 51.17 . A broken and contrite heart , O God thou wilt not despise . And the Sonne of Sirach . The prayer of the Humble pierceth the Clouds . Ecclus. 35.17 . And the Virgin Mary , he hath exalted the humble and meeke . Luc. 1.52 .

And this Humility , is likewise two fold . First of the Spirit . Secondly , of the Body . 1. For by the Humility of the Spirit , we acknowledge the impurity of our soules , and confesse our selues wicked , miserable and wretched in our owne sight , and that our strength is not worth the boasting of : which kinde or manner of praying , hath euer wrought effectually with God : as by the Prophet Esay he confesseth . To this man I looke , Esa. 66.2 . euen to him , that is poore and of a contrite Spirit . And the Psalmist testifieth how propense , and propitious God is to such kinde of petitioners . The Lord is nigh vnto them that are of a contrite heart , Psal. 34.17 . and will saue such as bee of an humble Spirit : and the Blessed Virgin acknowledgeth that she found the fruits of her Humility . Luc. 1.48 . He hath regarded the lowlinesse of his Handmayden . 2 Secondly , wee must shew our Humility , by a reuerend posture of the Body too . For it was euer the ancient and vsuall custome in prayers and supplications , to vse the most humble and decent gesture of body , that might be , thereby to testifie the Sympathy of the Body with the Soule . a a 1. King . 8.22 . Solomon , at the dedication of the Temple , stood before the Lord , and spread forth his hands to Heauen . b b Luc. 18.13 . The Publican stood and smote his breast . c c Exo. 17.11 . Moses held vp his hands to Heauen . d d Dan. 6.10 . Daniel . e e Act. 7.60 . Stephen . f f Act. 9.40 . Peter . g Paul kneeled . h h Psal. 95.6 . Dauid kneeled and lifted vp his eyes . i i Matth. 26.39 . Lastly our Sauiour Christ , ( euery one of whose actions ought to be a rule to vs ) sometimes fell on his face , sometimes k k Lue. 22.41 . kneeled , and sometimes l l 10.11.41 . lifted vp his eyes when he Prayed . And to this reuerend gesture of the Body , must be added the vnconering of the head . m m 1. Cor. 11.4 . Our heads must be bare , and not pray so familiarly , as if we were speaking to our equals : for the higher and more eminent the person is , whom we petition ; the more reuerend , and submisse , ought our behauiour to be to him .

6. In Perseuerance . In the next place : wee must resolue with our selues , not to be impatient of delayes , ( as we call it ) if God seeme not to heare vs presently . But we must Pray with perseuerance . Our Sauiour himselfe ( immediately after he had prescribed vnto his Disciples that absolute forme of prayer ) taught them also ( and vs in them ) the effects of this perseuerance , by the Example of the friend that came in the night to borrow loanes . Luc. 11.8 . Which effects also , Psal. 40.1 . Dauid and the woman of Canan felt . Matth. 15.28 . Wherefore not without good reason , did Saint Paul so often consaile this assiduity , Colloss. 4.2 . and instancie in prayer . 1. Thess. 4.17 .

If therefore our prayers be not heard ( as we conceiue ) at the first , second , or third time , shall wee then giue ouer ? Surely no , wee must not leaue so . For no doubt , but he which said , Luc. 11.9 . Aske and yee shall haue , will also giue what he hath promised ; when hee thinketh expedient , that wee should receiue it . O tary thou the Lords leysure , saith Dauid . And let not vs prescribe to God , Psal. 27.14 . either time , place , or manner ; but let vs in all modestie , willingly and patiently attend his good pleasure . For he many times de●…yeth vs , and putteth vs off , either to prooue our faith , perseuerance , and patience , and so to reward vs the more plentifully ; or else , least wee should loath , or litle esteeme his Blessings , by obtaining them too easily .

Feruency and ottention . Two other qualities there are which seeme to depend vpon this vertue of perseuerance , namely feruency of the Spirit , for what we craue : and Attention and regard , to what we craue . For it is not a chill and cold Perseuerance , or expectation , that will serue our turnes , to preuaile with God , but a feruent Spirit to pursue , the same . For God heareth not , at least regardeth not , cold , faint , and drowzie prayers , nor loud crying , long babling , or many tautologies or repetitions ; ( not intending or minding what wee pray for ) which proceede onely from the lips : but it is the affection , and zealous desires of the deuout , mixed with sighes , teares , Ro. 8.26 . and grones , not to bee vttered , which mooue , and preuaile with him . For God ( being a Spirit ) looketh to bee worshiped in Spirit . To which purpose it is , that our Sauiour Christ aduiseth vs , when we pray , to enter into our Clossets , and to s●ut the doore : intimating to vs thereby , Mat. 6.6 . that ( we being alone , and priuate ) should cast away all publike , wandering , and worldly thoughts , which trouble our deuotions ; and hinder vs from lifting vp our hearts vnto God : and wholly , feruently , and considerately , bend our thoughts and desires vnto him . And these retired Soliloquies , and priuate meditations and conferences , betweene God and our soules , and betweene our selues and our soules , haue euer beene much approued by the Ancients . Our prayer ( saith an ancient Father ) ought to be in such manner , Ephr. Syr. 1. Sam. 1. as Hannas was . She wept & praid , and her lippes onely were perceiued to moue . Let euery one heare this , and imitate it ; especially they , who with extreame babling , without all modesty , yet with lowdnesse of voice , make their prayers . Let vs therefore pray with sighes and groanes : But withall taking heed ( as much as we can , with Gods assistance and our owne endeauours ) that in the time of our prayers , no extrauagant thought steale vpon vs , least happily we haue one thing in our hearts , and another in our tongues . And to this purpose also speaketh Saint Basile . Basil Serm. in Martyr . Iulittam . All our prayers ought to bee made , not in sillables , but in the hearty affection of the Soule . For how doe , or can we thinke , that God will giue vs that , for which wee pray , when by our behauiour and gesture , our faint and weake sollicitation , we seeme to him , that either we doe not want , what we pray for , or , that he will vpon euery sleight and cold motion , be perswaded to giue vs , what wee desire ? Or how can we expect , to be heard of God , when we our selues ( not being serious in our deuotions , but diuerted with other phantasies : ) heare not , nor know what we do petition for ? The wise man therefore , giueth vs good , and wholsome counsell in this matter ; Before thou prayest , Ecclus. 18.23 . prepare thy selfe , and be not as one that tempteth the Lord .

Of the Time and Place for Prayer .

1. The Time . TAke a little taste of the Time when , and the Place where , our prayers are to be offered vp to God .

For the Time in generall , the places before named , doe , and may direct vs . a a 1. Thess. 5.17 . Pray without ceasing . b b Colloss. 4.3 . Continue in Prayer . And c c Eph. 6.18 . Luc. 11.18 . Pray alwaies . More particularly , d d Num. 28.3 . Twice a day ( that is , Morning and Euening ) The sacrifices were to be made . Dauid prayed thrice . e e Psal. 55.18 . In the Euening , Morning , and at noone day : And f f 119.164 . Seuen times in a day . g g Dan. 6.10 . Daniel prayed thrice . In the morning before day h h Mar. 1.35 . Christ prayed . Dauid prayed i i Psal. 63.1 . early . k k Act. 2.15 . The Apostles at the third houre of the day . l l 10.9 . At the Sixth houre . m m 3.1 . The ninth houre . And Dauid at n n Psal. 119.62 . midnight .

2. The Place For the Place . In all places saith a a Exo. 20.24 . God . Euery where saith b b 1. Tim. 2.8 . Saint Paul . Christ prayed in c c Mat. 1.35.35 . the desert . On a d d Matth. 14.23 . mountaine . e e Matth. 26.36 . In the Garden . f f Gen. 24.63 . Isaac in the field . g g Act. 10.9 . Peter prayed on the house top or tarris . h h Psal. 111.1 . In the congregation saith Dauid . To the Temple went i i Act. 3.1 . Saint Peter Saint Iohn , and Saint k k 22.17 . Paul . And Christ bids vs , when wee would be priuate in prayer , and not bee molested , to goe to our l l Matth. 6.6 . Clossets . So that it appeareth , that there is no Time , nor Place vnseasonable , to offer vp our Prayers vnto God , as occasion shal be offered , though the chiefe place for publike prayer , is the Temple , and for Priuate our Clossets .

How to pray aright .

To pray aright BVt it may come to passe , ( though we be prepared and fitted with all the former circumstances ) that we may pray , and not be heard ) if ( in the last place ) we doe not carefully consider to pray for those things , which are fit and requisite for God to giue , and for vs to receiue . For as Saint Iames saith , many times we aske and receiue not , Ia. 4.3 . because we aske amisse . For our better instruction therefore , we are to consider , that there be two sorts of blessings , to be required of God . First Spirituall . Secondly Temporall .

Spirituall Blessings . 1. The first part , pertaine to Gods owne honour , and the good of our owne soules : as Faith , Hope , Charitie , Thankefull hearts , Remission of sinnes , and other of the same kinde , which are meerely , Spirituall , and Heauenly . And these Blessings we may ( without doubt ) safely and confidently beg at Gods hands , and hee will not deny them .

Temporall . 2 The Second , are Temporall and Indifferent ; as Riches , Honour , Health , Peace , Seasonable times , Children , and the like . And these are not to bee prayed for , but ( according to Christs patterne of prayer ) with thy Will bee done , Matth. 6.10 . or according to Christs practise ) with a not as I will , 26.39 . but as thou wilt : or with the Leaper in the Gospell , Mat. 8.2 . Lord if thou wilt , thou canst make me cleane .

Bern. Serm. 5. in quadrag . Saint Bernard disposeth these into three heads . Two , for blessings of this life , for the Body , and Soule , and the third , for the life to come : and in praying for these , he giueth three Cautions , with his Reasons . First , that our prayer for Temporall blessings , which the Body wanteth , bee restrained to things needfull : because many times we pray for things superfluous , to satisfie our pleasures . Secondly , that our petition for the Graces of the soule , bee free from impuritie , because we oftentimes desire to haue them for Ostentation . Thirdly , that our request for the blessing of eternall Life , be in all Humility : because many require it at Gods hands , as presuming vpon their owne merits .

Our Prayers being thus qualified , being preferred only to God , in Faith , Hope , Charity with God and our Neighbour , Humilitiy of body and soule , perseuerance , feruency of Spirit , our soules and bodies attending to what we pray for , and in due time and place , praying aright , both for temporall and Spirituall blessings , wee shall ( no doubt ) by the mercy of God , through the mediation , intercession , and merits of Iesus Christ , obtaine ( in his good time ) all things which shall bee needfull , and expedient for vs .

Prayer diuided into Parts .

DEuotions and Prayers are either Priuate or Publique .

1. Priuate Prayers are , whereby euery particular man prayeth to God , for those things , which he wanteth . In which kinde of deuotion , we ought at all times to exercise our selues , because at all times , we stand in need of Gods particular assistance : and therefore , we are tyed or limited herein , neither to time , nor place ; for whether it bee in the night , or morning , midday or euening , at home or abroad , in the Citie or Countrie , in our beds or at our worke , if we call vpon him faith-fully , he will heare vs .

2. Publique prayers are , whereby the whole Congregation meet in a place , dedicated to Gods honour , aswell to praise his Name , as to pray for those things , which shall bee needfull . For although Christians ought to pray priuately , yet ought they not in the meane time , to neglect the publike worship and seruice of God in the Church . For from the beginning it was held and obserued , as a Duty required : and therefore , before the erection and dedication of Temples and Churches , the Patriarches , and holy men , erected Altars in certaine places , where at set times of the day , they might offer Sacrifices , Exo. 29.39 . and Publike Prayer , to God . In the 2. Ioel 2. of Ioel , you shall finde a set and prescribed forme of prayer , for the Minister to vse , togither with the place and the Congregation , that were to assist . In the New-Testament also , Mar. 18.10 . our sauiour Christ himselfe ( to encourage this holy duty of publique prayer ) hath promised his presence , amongst those , that shall bee assembled and gathered together after this manner . Therefore , whosoeuer shall neglect these publique assemblies , sheweth and discouereth thereby , how little he regardeth Christs company , or presence .

These prayers are also distinguished into these parts . 1. Inuocation . 2. Confession . 3. Thankesgiuing .

part 1 Inuocation consisteth of . 1. Petitions , for the good of our owne Soules in Spirituall things Bodies in Temporall things 2. Intercessions , either in praying for the good or against the euill of others . 3. Deprecations , against euill , Spirituall . Temporall .

part 2 Confession is threefold . 1. Of our Faith . 2. Of the Glory of God . 3. Of our owne sinnes .

part 3 Thankesgiuing is either 1. For deliuerance from euill . 2. For Benefits receiued .

To these may be added .

part 4 Imprecation either . 1. Against the enemies of God 2. against the enemies of our soules incorrigible and irreconcileable .

So that these rules bee obserued . 1. That it be not vsed for priuate hate or reuenge : 2. That we reioyce not in any mans destruction . 3. That we ayme at their correction .

The vse of the Lords Prayer .

BEcause that our SAVIOVR CHRIST hath taught vs how to pray , and hath put the very wordes ( as it were ) into our mouthes , which wee should vse in praying . I thinke it necessary to begin with the same , which he hath so left vnto vs . 1. In respect of the Excellency of the Author of it , who , was no lesse then God . 2. In respect of the perfection of the worke it selfe , ( the praier ) for it comprehendeth in it petitions for all things , which we stand in need of . 3. In respect of the Efficacy of this prayer in working : for it cannot choose , but preuaile and work much with God , for none knew the minde and disposition of God , better then hee which composed it , which was God .

And let it not loose any part of the due praise which belongeth to it , in regard of the compendiousnesse or shortnesse of it , for it deserueth the more henour , because though it be short , yet is also copious , and plentifull in matter , and therefore the more absolute and perfect .

It is not therefore without cause that the Ancients haue giuen so many excellent Attributes to it .

As the Abridgement of the Gospell and our Faith .

The Interpretation of our desires and hope .

The very Bond of Charity .

And an inexhaustible Treasury .

Yet let not any man thinke , that our Sauiour prescribed vs this prayer , as that we should vse no other , but be tyed to the very words contayned in it : but this we must conceiue , that hee made it , to bridle our desires ; that though wee make our petitions , and frame them according to our seuerall necessities ; yet , to keepe vs in compasse : that wee exceede not the limits , nor vary from the extent and bounds of this prayer .

The vse of it is two fold .

1. That we might be instructed by it , what is necessary in generall to require of God , and not without neede , seeing wee ( being naturally blinde in spirituall things ) know not what is fit to aske : and many times , we craue those things ( as Zebedees children did ) which are vnworthy both of God and our selues , Mat. 20.21 . and might proue hurtfull also to vs , if they should bee granted . And therefore ( vnder certaine generall heads ) he hath bounded the desires of the flesh , and taught vs , after what man●… and rule , wee should square all our petitions . For whatsoeuer wee shall desire against the directions therein contained , disagreeth from the will of God , and therefore is neither good , holy , not profitable .

2. That wee may bee able thereby , to conceiue , frame , and make all our prayers according to our seuerall necessities , and after that petition , which fitteth vs , as our occasions shall alter .

The Lords Prayer analysed .

Our father . 1. Chr. 29.10 . A Father , not a Iudge .

One , beeing a name of goodnesse . Comfortable .

The other , of Power . Terrible .

Who durst bee so bold , as to call thee Father , but that Christ did commaund it ? For exceeding great is thy Maiestie . And exceeding great is our Pouertie .

But wee are bold to doe it : for we come not of our selues , thy Sonne Christ hath taught vs the Forme . Take notice of the words , they are thy Sonnes . Father Luc. 3.38 . 1. Of all Creatures . In Creation . Preseruation . Gouerning . 2. Of Mankinde : which he formed after his owne Image . Gen. 1.26 . 9.6 . 3. Of Christians more especially , by Grace , Regeneration , Eph. 1.4,5 . Iam. 1.18 . 1. Pet. 1.23 . and adoption by Iesus Christ who was the Sonne of God by Nature .

Father . There is no Father like vnto thee .

When my Father and mother forsake me , Psa. 27.10 . then the Lord will take mee vp . Thou art our Father , Esa. 63.16 . though Abraham bee ignorant of vs . 49.15 . Though a woman forget the Fraite of her wombe , yet will not I forget thee . A most indulgent Father : To whom the prodigall sonne arose and went , Luc. 15.18 . whom the insoluant seruant besought . Mat. 18.27 .

Though thou bee an angry Father , yet , a Father thou art . Though I be a wastfull and disobedient sonne , yet a sonne I am . Though I haue lost the duty of a sonne , yet hast not Thou lost the compassion and Loue of a Father .

Father . Whom we finde so to be , By his inciting vs to good . Confirming vs in it . Deliuering vs from tentations . Reclaiming vs from sinne . Crowning vs with blessings .

1. If thou our Father . Then are we sonnes .

How great , what manner of Loue hast thou bestowed vpon vs , 1. Ioh. 3.1 . that we should be called the sonnes of God ?

2. If thou our Father , and we the sonnes of God . How great is the Honour , that wee are , as it were Gods .

3. If thou our Father .

Then are we brethren to Angels , as also to Men. Heb. 2.12 . Saints , as also to Meane men . Christ himselfe . as also to Poore men .

How great ought our Charity be ? Let no man therefore extoll himselfe aboue his Brethren , nor be ashamed to call any man Brother , whom God hath vouchsafed to call sonne .

4 If thou our Father : How great is our Hope ?

What are wee to expect from thee ?

Euen all things which a Father giueth to his Children . Mat. 7.11 .

What are wee to render vnto thee ?

Euen all Dutie and Obedience belonging to Children . Malach. 1.6 . 1. Pet. 1.17 .

Our father . In no part of this prayer is found either the word Mine , or J.

Our , is a word of Charitie and Vnitie . Let euery one therefore , not only pray for himselfe , but for others also ; considering , that in so doing , hee prayeth for him , whom Charitie hath made as himselfe .

Christ bore vs all in his body , let vs do the like to one another , in word and deed .

For our selues , Necessity compelleth vs to pray , My Father .

For our brethren , Charity inuiteth vs to pray , Our Father .

In these two words , Our and Father , is comprehended the Law and Prophets .

In Father , the Loue of God .

In Our , the Loue of our Neighbour .

And in these two words , is the Summe of the Gospell contained . In Father , our Faith . In Our , our Charity .

Which art in Heauen . There are Earthly Fathers .

These leaue and forsake vs : Their hands bee shortned . Wee call not to them , but to thee , which art in Heauen :

Esa. 66.1 . Mat. 5.34 . Psal. 19.1 Heauen is thy Throne .

The Heauens declare the Glory of God .

Not , that thou art only included in the Heauens : for ( as Solomon said ) the Heauen of Heauens cannot containe thee : 1. King . 8.27 but , as if that were thy Royall Palace , where the Elect shall enioy thy Blessed presence .

Thou art euery where By thy presence . Ier. 23.23 . Esa. 66.1 . In Heauen By thy excellence .

Jn Heauen . A word of Hope .

For if thou be our Father , and Lord , and King of Heauen , then our hope is , that our Inheritance is there also : That thou wilt not denie vs an Inheritance , that hast vouchsafed to vs the Title of Sonnes .

Let vs therefore take the wings of the Eagle , and bee lifted vp in our meditations to Heauen , being made heires thereof .

Let vs looke vp to Heauen while we are on Earth . By Hope By Meditation Psal. 25.1 . Vnto thee O Lord doe I lift vp my Soule . Psal. 121.1 . 123.1 . I will lift vp mine Eyes to the hills , whence commeth my helpe . Psal. 130.1 . Out of the deepe haue I called to thee O Lord .

A word of Power .

Jn Heauen . For thou art in that place , from whence , at all times , Thou canst send vs helpe in danger good things in our need . plagues for our offences .

Let vs therefore be respectiue of his awfull Maiestie , and make our petitions to him , in feare and trembling , in all humilitie and reuerence . And let vs not beerash with our mouthes , Eccles. 5. nor our hearts hastie to vtter any thing before him : for God is in Heauen , and we ( poore creatures ) vpon earth : which is but his footestoole .

Hollowed be thy Name . Being thus intituled and dignified with the Honour of Sonnes , wee ought presently to consider our Duties , what we should render backe . And what can a Son desire more , then the Honour of his Father .

Blessed bee thou our Lord , who hast giuen this power to men To Hallow To Magnifie To Glorifie Thy Name , which in it selfe is Holy .

Which all thy workes in generall doe sanctifie . Psal. 103.22 . 104.31 . 145.10 . Esa. 43.20 . Psal. 97,5,6 .

Which all the vnreasonable Creatures doe hallow and praise .

Which all reasonable Creatures as Angells and Men doe glorifie .

The Angels and hosts of heauen . Esa 6.2,3 . Psa. 103.20,21 .

Men. In Heauen already : In Earth , By their works . Mat. 5.16 . In the Congregations . In Afflictions . Iob 1.20 .

Let vs therefore doe it . And that not contemptibly or sleightly : but Holily and Carefully , in Thought , Word , and Profession .

Thine And Lord , Ezech. 36.23 let thy Name bee sanctified by others beside vs , dilate this Power of Sanctifying thee : communicate thy Name more and more to the Gentiles ; Exod. 9.16 . make thy Gospell to spread to the ends of the earth ; from the rising of the Sunne , to the going downe of the same , let thy Name be great among the Gentiles . Psal. 115.1 . Not to vs Lord , not to vs , but to thy Name be the Glory . Thou art worthy O Lord to receiue Honor and Glory . Reuel. 4.11 .

And thy Name ought to bee sanctified by vs aboue all things , for all other things are for vs , and we for thy Glory only . Not that God shall get any thing thereby , or that hee hath neede of our sanctifying . But in regard of the Benefit , which will accrew to vs by it : for this honour , will be an honour , to him that giueth it .

Them that honour me I will honour , 1. Sam. 2.30 . saith God . 2. Thes. 1.12 .

Thy Kingdome come . In this Petition wee pray , First , for the comming of Gods Kingdome . That hee only may rule ouer vs . Secondly , for the destruction and euersion of the kingdome of Sathan .

The Kingdome of God is threefold . First , of Glory , Secondly , of Grace . Thirdly , of Power .

1. Of Glory ( hereafter ) which indeede should bee the scope of our desires , for wee ought so to liue here , that we may desire ( without feare ) the comming of this Kingdome .

So to be affected at our death , that we may say ; Lord now lettest thou thy Seruant depart in peace . Luc. 2.29 .

So to bee affected in our life , that we may often say , when shall I appeare before the Lord ? I desire to bee dissolued and to bee with Christ . Phil. 1.23 . Come Lord Iesus come quickly . Reuel. 22.20 .

2. Of Grace , in this life in vs . Luc. 19.11 . That wee be not of their mindes who said , wee will not haue this man raigne ouer vs . But subiect vs O Lord to this Kingdome ( that easie yoake of thine ) that in all things wee may be obedient to thee . Gouerne vs , and raigne in vs , that Sathan or sinne raigne not in our members . If thou be pleased so to rule in vs here , wee shall raigne with thee hereafter .

3. Of Power , for there are many Rulers in this world , which oppose thy Kingdome . Arise O Lord , and take the Rule into thine owne hand . Raigne thou ouer vs . Gouerne vs within and without .

Let thy Kingdome come , and that it may come in vs , let it come into our Rulers . Make them like to thee in their gouernment . Let them rule to thee , not to themselues . Let thy Kingdome be in them .

And because , when this earthly Gouernment is at the best , it is laborious and vnperfect : Hasten thy Kingdome of Glory wee beseech thee , in which will bee no cause of complaint , but all things will be absolute and perfect . To which all the Creatures together with vs , Rom. 8.18 . earnestly waite euen with groanes .

For all the votes and desires of the a a Esa. 64.1 . Luc. 10.24.2.19 . Old Testament , were pitched vpon the first comming of Christ : and all of the b b 2. Tit. 13. New : vpon the second looking for that blessed Hope , 2. Tim. 4.8 . and Glorious appearing of the great God , Reuel. 22.20 . and our Saniour Iesus Christ .

Come . Come to vs , but not vpon vs .

Certainely it will come , will we , nill we .

Let it come to vs , not against vs .

Let vs feele the happinesse of it , O Father , in comming , not the violence of it , in rushing vpon vs . In the meane time let it come to vs here , though not in the full fruition : yet in the certaine hope and expectation , say vnto each of our soules , Psal. 35.3 . I am thy saluation .

Thy will be done . Thy absolute and Eternall Will , which none can oppose or withstand . Esa. 14.24,27 .

Thy reuealed Will , which wee may contradict .

Let both be done .

Let vs shew our obedience to thee here , Psal. 103.20 . as the Angells doe in Heauen .

All other Creatures obey thy Will , Mat. 18.10 . only Man is disobedient to it .

Thy Reuealed Will , which commandeth vs to be humble in conuersation , firme in faith , iust and charitable in workes : true in words ; to loue thee with all our hearts as a Father , to feare thee as a God : to preferre nothing before Christ , ( who preferred vs before all things ) and the like .

Thy Will , and all thy Will , without exception .

Thy Will , and not our Will. a a Act. 21.14 . The Lords Will be done . b b Iam. 4.15 . If the Lord will .

Thy Will be done , in all things , as well in things pleasing , as displeasing to vs : but especially , let it be done in vs . That our blinde and peruerse will may be led , by thy most holy Will . If our wills be refractory to thine , roote out , dissipate ours , and establish thine . Turne our Nill , into thy Will.

Jn earth as it is in heauen . In earth as in Heauen , Hallowed bee thy Name . In earth as in Heauen , Thy Kingdome come . In earth as in Heauen , Thy Will bee done .

Let Heauen bee the paterne and Rule , to Earth , in all things .

Let vs begin to be on Earth , as we would be in Heauen hereafter .

In earth . In Earth , in all the Earth . But especially in this part of the earth , where we liue . Wee are of this Earth , let thy Will be done in vs .

As in heauen . As in Heauen , not as much , or as well : But let vs imitate , though we cannot equall .

We beg thy grace , to doe thy Will , as thy Angels and Saints do it . But because many things hinder vs , wee say with Saint Aug. Aug. Giue vs power and ability to doe thy commands , and then command vs what thou pleasest . And if our condition in this life , will not admit so much , yet Lord accept our desires , which crie to thee , Thy Will be done . And if our desires be also vnperfect , yet heare our cry , in the Prophets words . Our soules haue longed to desire thy Lawes and Commandements alwaies . Psal. 119.

Giue vs this day our daily Bread . Here we may consider the excellent Order of this Prayer , for what ought a Sonne before all things with more feruency desire , then the Honour of his Father , the prosperitie of his Kingdome , and obedience to his Will ? And in the next place , what is more proper to children , then to aske Bread of their Father ?

There is in vs a double nature or substance , which requires two sorts of Bread .

1. The Soule hath her viands to be prouided . a a Esa. 55.2 . The Bread of Angels . b b Ier. 15.16 . Psal. 65.4 . Heb. 5.13.14 . The Bread of heauen , the Word . c c Ioh. 6.33.35.48 . The Bread of Life , Christ Iesus in the flesh .

Lord giue vs of this Bread euermore . Ioh. 6.3.4 .

2. The Body , also cryeth for her sustenance , her Bread , that is , all the necessaries of this life : Psal. 132.15 . for except it bee satisfied likewise , it draweth our mindes from thee .

Thou hast promised O Father , to adde all other things to vs ; Mat. 6.33 . if we first seeke thy Kingdome . Behold we haue sought it , giue vs therefore Bread either fine , middlesort , or course , which of them shall seeme good to thee .

And which may feed , and not choake vs , either with the care of them , or neglect of thee .

With Bread , giue vs O Lord , a a Leuit. 26.26 1. King . 19.8 . The staffe of Bread . b b Psal. 6.2.91.16 . Health of Body . Wholesome Ayre . c c Pro. 15. Content in minde . Conuenient dwelling . Peace in our daies , and the like .

Our Bread . Ours : gotten , either by a a Mat. 7.7 . Prayer , or b b Gen. 3.19 . Labour .

Ours : 2. Thes. 3.8 . as first Thine : Thine , by Gift , Ours , by Vse . Not due to vs , but of thy mercy and bounty , giuen to vs .

Ours : 1. Thes. 5.14 So , as if we haue more then we need , we are to communicate it , to those which want .

Ours : that being contented with our owne , we couet not other mens .

Daily Bread That we dayly wanting , might dayly pray for it , and that we daily receiuing , might daily praise thee for it .

To put vs also in minde of the the vncertainty and shortnesse of this life , that begging Bread , but for a day , it may bee perhaps enough , for the time we haue to liue .

Bread . For our necessity , not for superfluity .

Which may profit the Soule , and not hurt the Body .

Which may nourish the Soule , and not destroy the Body .

If the Lord will bee with mee , Gen. 28.20 . and will keepe me in the way that I shall goe , and will giue me bread to eate , and rayment to put on , so that I returne in peace , then the Lord shall be my God .

Two things haue I required of thee , Pro. 30.7,8,9 deny mee not them before I dye ; Remooue farre from me vanity and lyes : giue me neither pouerty , nor riches , feed mee with food connenient for me : lest I bee full and deny thee , and say , Who is the Lord ? or lest I bee poore and steale , and take the Name of my God in vaine .

Giue . Giue it thou . Blesse the labours of our hands . Breake it thou , and giue it : Let not vs take it : for if thou giue it , thou wilt giue it in time , place , and measure . Whereas , if we take it our selues , wee obserue none of these rules , but take it , to the destruction of our owne soules , and bodies .

To vs . Not only to mee , and my family , but to all thy seruants that need it .

This day . That is this day of our life . This time . For we being vncertaine of our Dayes , Heb. 3●… why should wee begge bread for vncertaine times ? For we are not assured of an age , a yeare , or a day . Our life is but a day ; and a day is the resemblance of our life .

Yet for all this , Prouidence is not hereby forbidden , or that none should lay vp with a a Gen. 41. Ioseph , or with the b b Pro. 6.6 . Ant.

Giue vs O Lord , Bread conuenient and meet , to serue vs to day , and to morrow also .

And forgiue vs our trespasses . Esa. 27.9 . This is all the fruite , to take away sinne .

Esa. 59.2 . Our iniquities haue separated betweene vs and our God , and our sinnes haue hid his face from vs , that he will not heare vs .

Ier. 5.25 . Our iniquities haue with-holden good things from vs .

Lam. 3.44 . Thou hast set our sinnes as a Cloud , that our prayers might not passe through .

Ioh. 9.31 . We know that God heareth not sinners .

As long as our sinnes stand vp against vs , and are not forgiuen , we are out of hope , of receiuing any good at Gods hands .

Forgiue . Therefore O Lord , not only giue , but forgiue also .

The Guilt . The Punishment .

And in this , thy mercy is manifested , that thou giuest to those , who , after they haue receiued , must craue forgiuenesse .

Giue vnto vs , who are thine enemies , and when thou hast giuen , forgiue vs also .

Thou hast not dealt so with Angells . Their sinnes are not , Iude 6. will not be forgiuen : ours may , in thy good pleasure .

We are vnworthy : Let vs not be vnthankefull .

Our trespasses or debts . We become debtors or trespassers , as often as wee omit , and leaue vndone , those things which thou commandest vs to doe : and commit those things which thou forbiddest .

And of these , some are done Ignorantly others Of our own knowledge . Vnwillingly others Wittingly & greedily . Before our calling others Being called . Against God others Against our neighbours and our selues . In heart others In word & deed . By our selues others By others as authors or prouokers Of Commission others Omission . Secretly . others Of which our heart reprooueth vs .

Forgiue them O Lord , retaine not the offence , exact not the punishment . Be reconciled vnto vs , By laying aside thy displeasure : By receiuing vs to Grace .

Forgiue . Acts 7.60 . 2. Tim. 4.16 . And as thou forgiuest vs . So also forgiue our enemies

As we forgiue them that trespasse against vs . Not to prescribe an example to God , to imitate vs , nor , that we merit in forgiuing others , but to testifie , how great a matter , it seemeth to vs , to forgiue offences .

Blessed bee thou O Lord , for propounding to vs , so easie a condition .

To forgiue a mite , and be forgiuen a Talent .

Oh happy exchange , to receiue gold for drosse .

Herein O Lord , thou dealest wonderfully and mercifully with vs , that we daily praying thus , are daily to forgiue , and to be forgiuen . And thou dost binde vs , by this condition of mutuall forgiuenes . For he that forgiueth not , doth pray against himselfe , and in effect doth pray thus . Lord forgiue not me , for I doe not forgiue .

Graunt vs therefore grace , to follow thy Example ; fully and freely to forgiue the offence , and not retaine the punishment , or any malice , against those , whom we seeme to forgiue .

As we . Not so much in quantitie : but the like in qualitie . For wee forgiue imperfectly , thou absolutely , and perfectly .

And lead vs not into temptation . There are two sorts of Tentation . 1. Of Triall . 2. Of Deceit , or Seducing .

1. That of Tryall is , when God doth any thing to proue the constancy , and affections of his Seruants , and this is good . As of a a Gen. 22.1 . Abraham , of b b Iob 1. Iob , of his c c Exo. 15.25.16.4.20.20 . people .

2. That of seducing , is , when we are tempted by the Deuill , his ministers , or our owne flesh , Deut. 8.2.16.13.3 to forsake God , and his Commandements , and this temptation , we pray against .

For what Benefit will redound to vs , in forgiuing our old sinnes , if wee contract new . O Lord , not only pardon that which is past , but preuent vs from committing the like . Let vs not be encouraged to sinne , because of thy bounty , in blotting out our former offences , but rather to Thankefulnesse , and care to offend thee no more .

Deliuer vs from that which is past . Subuention . Keepe vs from that which is to come . Preuention .

Let vs not turne with the dog to the vomite , or the Sow to the mire . 2. Pet. 2.22 .

It is enough , 1. Pet. 4.3 . that we haue spent the time past in the workes of the flesh . For the enemie is neuer readier , or neerer to vs , then when the house is cleane swept . Mat. 12.44 . Therefore , the danger being so neere vs , giue vs grace , to be the more wary of him .

For behold O Lord , hee is at hand to ensnare vs , either with his owne Malice , the delights of the World , or the pleasures of the flesh .

If he cannot preuaile by faire meanes , yet by force to compell vs . If he cannot puffe vs vp with delight , yet to deiect vs with sorrow . Wherefore O Lord forsake vs not : and by forsaking vs , Lead vs into tentation . For of our selues without thee , we haue no power to resist Sathan : neither hath Sathan without thee , any power to Tempt vs .

Let no Tentation , but such as is common to man , 1. Cor. 10.13 . take hold on vs . Giue vs a happy issue with our Tentation : let it bee to the Triall of our faith , and the Confusion of Sathan . Lead vs no further in , then thou wilt bring vs out againe .

Thou O Lord leadest none in , but who first leadeth in himselfe , nor hardnest any , but those , who first harden themselues .

Ecclus. 3.26 . Let not vs bee rebellious , and prouoke the Tempter , nor loue danger , lest we perish therein .

It is a dangerous thing to bee tempted for the vncertainty of the victory .

It is Presumption , to desire it : but Humilitie , to decline it .

It is ioyfully to be endured , but by no meanes , to be desired .

But deliuer vs from euil Not only Lead vs not : That is not sufficient , except thou deliuer vs also .

If we cannot be free from Tentation , yet deliuer vs from the Euill of it .

From Tentation that is Euill .

From euill . All things are Euill , which diuert vs from Thee , but especially , That Euill enemie of thine , and for Thy sake , our Enemie : for he is not our enemie , in respect of our selues : for we are not of such strength , as that he should desire to oppose vs , but he is our Enemy , because we are thy children , and belong to Thee .

Deliuer vs O Lord , from his bondage .

Psal. 68.1 . Let God arise , and let his enemies be scattered .

Psal. 89.23 . Let not the enemy be able to doe vs violence , nor the sonne of wickednesse , hurt vs .

Psal. 86.13 . Deliuer our Soules O Lord :

From the nethermost Hell .

Psal. 22.20 . From the power of the dogge .

Psal. 22.21 . From the Lyons mouth , and the hornes of the Vnicornes .

Psal. 69.15 . Out of the myre , that wee sinke not .

Psal. 69.16 . From the deepe , and let not the pit shut her mouth vpon vs .

And not only deliuer vs from Him , but from his Malice also .

From whatsoeuer poysou , he hath breathed on the Creatures .

From the Enmity of the World .

From whatsoeuer is ill in our flesh .

Deliuer vs also O Lord , from the Euill of Punishment , from the Euils , and miseries of this life :

Especially of the life to come .

Amen . Behold O Father , we haue ( according to thy Sonnes Directions , and forme ) presumed , to craue those things , which wee want : we haue made our neede knowne vnto thee .

We desire of thee O Father , that thou wouldest graunt vs those things , which wee haue craued of thee .

Wee sigh and groane to thee , and pray thee to confirme our votes and wishes , with thy Seale , So be it .

Grant vs our petitions for his sake , that is a true and faithfull witnesse , and in whom all thy promises are Yea , and Amen .

Honour him in vs , who deserue of our selues ( without him ) no good , but much euill at thy hands . And say to our petitions ,

Amen . So be it .

Our Father which art in heauen . O Almightie Lord and our Heauenly Father , whose Fatherly power and goodnesse , is seene , in the Creation , preseruation , and gouerning of all things , and vpon whom , as a Father , we waite and depend for all that is good : who art in all places , by thy presence , but especially in Heauen by thy Excellence . We thy poore children , whom thou hast preferred before the rest of thy creatures , Psal. 8. doe , from the bottome of our hearts , Hallowed bee thy Name . wish and desire , that thy Name may be Hallowed , glorified , and magnified , from the rising of the Sunne , to the going downe thereof , euen through all parts of the world : and that it may the better spread , from one Nation to another , giue vs grace ( who haue receiued the adoption of Children ) so to walke before thee , Eph. 1.4 . in holinesse and righteousnesse , that the Heathen , Mat. 5.16 . who haue not knowne thy Name , seeing our good workes , may glorifie thy Name together with vs . Thou seest O Lord , Thy Kingdome come . that we haue many Tyrants amongst vs in this life , as the Deuill malicious and cruell : the World vaine and curious : the flesh fraile and deceiptfull : and our owne Will vile and corrupt , all which doe impetuously tyrannize ouer vs , and oppose themselues against thy Kingdome . Arise therefore O Lord , and suppresse these Tyrants , and rule ouer thine and our enemies , by thy power , and in vs by thy Grace , that we may hereafter be subiects in thy Kingdome of Glory . Let thy Kingdome come , and gouerne vs by thy Prouidence , defend vs by thy Might , lead vs by thy Spirit , and teach vs by thy Word Driue farre from vs , the Prince of this World , and doe thou only Rule in vs . Thy Will be done in earth as it is in heauen Giue vs grace , to follow the example of thy Blessed Angels , and all other thy Creatures , who readily , and ioyfully doe thy Will. Let our wills follow thine in all things , and let nothing be displeasing to vs , which thy Will hath decreed , either for our prosperitie , or aduersitie . Let vs doe nothing contrary to thy Will , but let the performance and execution of thy Will , be the whole scope and aime of our thoughts , words , and actions . And to this end , giue vnto vs thy holy Spirit , which may direct our Wills , enlighten our vnderstandings , mollifie our hearts , and make them obedient to thy Will. Giue vs this day our daily Bread . We further crie vnto thee O Lord ( who giuest foode to euery liuing Creature , and feedest the young Rauens that call vpon thee ) and pray thee , Psal. 145.15.147.9 . that thou wouldest likewise , giue vnto vs this day our dayly bread . First , and aboue all , the Bread of Life , which may nourish vs spiritually : and after that , Bread for our bodies , to sustaine nature . Giue vs we beseech thee , all things necessary ( not superfluous ) for this life : and graunt , that we , vsing thy blessings as becommeth vs , may be strengthned and enabled , to passe this life quietlie , and soberly , and at the end of these our dayes , by the merits , and intercession of our Sauiour Iesus Christ , obtaine life eternall . And forgiue vs our trespasses , as we forgiue them that trespasse against vs . And for as much O Lord as wee know , that thou hearest not vnrepentant sinners , and that our sinnes haue ( long since ) preuented our prayers , and ascended into thy presence , to stop the current of thy mercies , and to call for vengeance against vs : O Lord behold , that we earnestly repent vs of them , and are heartily sorrowfull for them . Wherefore we humbly pray thee , for thy great mercies to mankinde , in thy Son Christ Iesus , that thou wouldest be pleased , to be reconciled vnto vs , and to forgiue vs our trespasses . Enter not into Iudgement with vs , Psal. 130. for if thou doe , no man is able to abide the mildnesse of thy Iustice , much lesse the seueritie of it . Giue vs also grace , to follow the Example of our blessed Sauiour , who forgaue his enemies , and prayed for them , that wee may forgiue them that trespasse against vs . Lest , when thou comest to Iudgement , thou dealest as seuerely with vs , as thou didst with him , Mat. 18. who had much forgiuen , and would not forgiue a little . And lead vs not into temptation . Thou knowest O Father , how vnapt wee are of our selues to thinke a good thought , much lesse , to resist so great enemies , as are hourely ready to assaile vs : suffer vs not therefore to bee tempted aboue our abilities ; Neither ( by forsaking vs , or withdrawing thy hand of protection from vs ) Lead thou vs into tentation : but Lord so strengthen vs , ( that although it be not good for vs , to be altogther free from tentation , yet ) by thy aide and Grace , wee may haue a happy issue , and ioyfull deliuerance from it . But deliuer vs from euill . And as , wee haue humblie prayed thee , not to leade vs in : So we further desire thee to deliuer vs out , of all euill . For as long as we remaine in this flesh , we shall haue continuall striuings & wrestlings , with diuerse euils , but especially , with the Euill spirit , the enemie to Mankinde , who omitteth no opportunitie to bring vs into his bondage . But wee are comforted O Lord , with the assurance of thy mercy , which can effect , & worke more to our Saluation , then his Malice to our Destruction . Graunt therefore O Lord , that wee may be deliuered from all euill , and from all our enemies spirituall and temporall , that so , wee may serue thee euer hereafter , in holinesse , and righteousnesse , Luc. 1.15 . all the dayes of our life .

Amen . Hauing thus discouered , and laid open our necessities to thee O Lord , in that forme and manner , which thy Sonne directed vs , wee humbly pray thee , to say Amen , to all our petitions . In his Name , and for his merits sake , we pray thee , to grant them . For , though wee haue no deserts to challenge them , yet his Merits are numberlesse , by which wee plead for them . And with this Sacrifice , and Oblation , wee are bold to come vnto thee , not only crauing pardon for our sinnes , but supply of our necessities . Wee come not to thee of our selues , presuming of any thing in vs , but wee are sent by thy Sonne Iesus Christ , who hath commanded vs , with confidence to presse vnto thy Throne , and in his Name to aske , whatsoeuer we shall need , either for this life , or the life to come . And as hee hath sent vs , so hath hee also , put into our mouthes , words , meete for our requests . O Lord take notice of the Stile , it is his owne , and for his sake , say to what we haue required , Amen . So be it .

And thou O Blessed Sauiour , God and Man , intercead ( we beseech thee ) for vs : for thou only art our Aduocate , Mediator , and Intercessor , to the Father . Couer our imperfections , and nakednesse , with the Robes of thy Righteousnesse , and supply our pouerty , with the Riches of thy Merits : and cast not those from thy fauour and grace , whome by Nature , thou of thy goodnesse , hast vouchsafed to make thy Brethren . Who liuest and raignest , with the Father and Holy Spirit , now and for euer Amen .