Holy devotions, with directions to pray also a brief exposition upon [brace] the Lords prayer, the creed, the Ten commandments, the 7 penitential psalms, the 7 psalms of thanksgiving : together with a letanie / by the Right Reverend Father in God Lancelot Andrews ...

EFFIGIES R. P. LANCELOTI ANDREWES Episcopi Wintoniensis

Holy Devotions , WITH Directions to Pray ; ALSO A brief Exposition UPON The Lords Prayer , The Creed , The Ten Commandements , The 7 Penitential Psalms , The 7 Psalms of Thanksgiving .

Together with a Letanie .

By the right Reverend Father in God Lancelott Andrews , late Bishop of WINCHESTER .

The Fifth Edition .

LONDON , Printed for A. Seile over against St. Dunstans Church in Fleetstreet . 1663.

Christian Reader .

THou art here presented with another Manual from the Dead . I need not tell thee who it is , that being Dead , thus speaketh ; For , when thou shalt have perused these Pious and Holy Institutions , this Dove with Silver Wings , and whose Feathers are gold , Thou wilt easily conclude what Hand it was , and who the Noah that sent it forth of the Ark , to find out the dry Corners of this Land , that so , there it might build a Nest , not for it self , but for others , with that Olive Branch which it carries in its Mouth .

Or if happily thou mayest not here know the Parent by the Child ( because indeed the Child has been educated under a kind Foster-Father , who dressed it up in three former Editions , and might have done in a Fourth , but that he now sleepes in the Lord. )

Know now ; that the True Father , and primary Author of these Devotions , was the Glory of this Church , the Great and Eminent Andrewes ; a Person of such Learning , Charmingness , and Sanctity , that in after-times there will bee some to make it their VVish , O that they had lived in those Dayes , when they might have seen Dr. Andrews , in the Schooles , Bp. Andrews , in the Pulpit , St. Andrews , in the Closet .

And thus the Parentage of this Book , ( which like that of Cyrus ) was , for divers years , concealed under a Shepheards Cottage , ( a good and faithfull Shepheard he was that concealed it ) comes now to be vindicated to its own Nativity ; And the Child being of full Age , desires to be known abroad in the VVorld for her Fathers Daughter , the Daughter of her True , not Supposed Father .

If it were not too great a Presumption for so sacred a Person to be commended by so mean a Pen , I should be ready to say of our Lancelott Andrewes , as Erasmus said of his Ioannes Vitrarius , that had he lived in the Infancy of the Gospel , and been a known Contemporary to Saint Paul , he would ( happily ) have chosen Him , even before Barnabas or Timothy , to have been his Companion in his Labours and Ministry .

O the vast interest which this great Luminary had in those two Equal Sisters , Prayer and Preaching . Preaching and Prayer !

I am bold to call them Equal Sisters , because the use of Preaching is to teach us all how to Pray ; And the Benefit of Prayer , is to enable some , after what manner to Preach : Though , it will here be Confessed , that as the times now stand , the best Weapons of the Church are Tearfull Prayers .

And therefore , since the Press of late has grown even Wanton in the Printing of Sermons ( which serve to make Plagiary-Preachers of such that never would , never could be Scholars .

So now , I shall endeavour an expiation of that Crime , by making it sweat under the Happy Dew of Penitential Prayers and Devotions . And

A Devout Heart and Tongue has much the Advantage of a Ravenous Ear.

But Christian Reader , not to keep thee longer from being upon thy Knees , Know , that This Preface is no way intended as a project to advance the sale of this Edition . No , This Hallowed structure is a work of more sanctity , than to allow of any Brokage . What is just Policy elsewhere , would here be Simony . I now intend not my own Benefit , as Thine . T is a work of Charity more than of Merchandise .

And the Design is chiefly , that whilst our Churches are become Schools of Disputation , My shop may be converted to an Oratory .

Wherein yet I hope , amidst the many Conditions of Persons which thou art here invited to pray for , thou wilt not leave him , whose endeavours are at thy service ,

Thine , Henry Seile .

Holy Devotions , OR DIRECTIONS To Pray , &c.

A General Exhortation to Gods service .

THe minds of many ( I will not say of most men ) are so distracted with the cares of this world , and so much addicted to the pleasures thereof , and the thoughts of God and goodness are so farre from them , that they seldom or never think , either of the danger they are obnoxious to , or the loss they are like to sustain , by the neglect of those things which tend to their Salvation . So that the saying of our Saviour to Martha , may well be applyed to them , Thou art troubled with many things , One thing is necessary . And if they would take into serious consideration what they hazard , nay what they lose by neglecting this unum necessarium , that one thing necessary , without doubt they would withdraw themselves from the immoderate cares and pleasures of this transitory world , and in due time bend their thoughts to that course , which in the end would bring rest to their Souls . Cicero . The Heathen man could say , Tempus est de illa perpetua jam , non de hac exigua vita cogitare . It is now high time , not to think of this short life , but of life eternal . And Longum illud tempus cum non ero , magis me movet , quam hoc exiguum , quod mihi tamen nimiùm longum videtur . That length of time when I shall cease to be , more moveth me , than this short time , which yet seemeth too long . In our temporal estate wee are carefull enough , in the beginning of our dayes , to settle our selves in a course of life , for our maintenance and preservation . Why should we be so backward , so remiss , in those things which concern us nearer , even the eternal good and happy estate of our souls , but look to that betimes too ? For if our beginning be good , there is good hope of the time succeeding . Let us therefore lay a good foundation , like wise builders , Esa. 55.6 . and seek the Lord while he may be found , and fix our cogitations wholly upon him , love , honour , obey him , and apply our selves wholly to his service . This we are bound to do in divers respects .

For the excellency of Gods Divine Perfection .

Being defective in nothing .

Perfect in knowledge . Job : 37. 16.11.17 .

Past finding out .

Be perfect , Mat. 5.48 . as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect .

Which Perfection though no Heart can comprehend , or Tongue express fully ; Yet we may make some estimate of it , by some of his Attributes , whereof we shall give you a brief sight .

S. Augustine speaking of his perfection , saith , that

He is immutable , yet changing in all things . Alwayes in action , ever quiet . Filling all things , not concluded in any thing . Great without quantity . Good without quality .

Patet quam sit admirabilis , cum omnibus linguis sit indicibilis , omnibus cordibus sit incogitabilis .

Excedit supereminentia Deitatis , non solum usitati eloquii , sed etiam intellegentiae facultatem .

It appears how admirable it is , since no tongue can express it , nor any heart conceive it .

The Transcendency of the Godhead exceeds not only the usual strength of eloquence , but of understanding likewise .

He is Absolute or Simple . Without Composition . Without Body .

Spiritual . He is all Eye , He is all Ear , Tert. 1. He is all Hand , Invisible . Because he seeth all things . Because he heareth all things . Because he worketh all things .

He is all Foot , because he is every where ,

When you hear him named , conceive him to be a substance without beginning or end . Simple without mixture .

Infinite .

Not to be circumscribed to time or place .

Whither shall I go from thy presence , &c. Psal. 139. 6 , &c.

Heaven is my Throne , Esa. 66 1. &c. Where is the place of my rest ?

Do not I fill Heaven and Earth , saith the Lord ? Jer. 23. 24.

The Spirit of the Lord filleth all the world . Wisd. 1.7 .

Deus ubique est , & totus ubique est . S. Hier.

AEterna stabilitate in seipso manens , S. Aug. totus adesse rebus omnibus potest , & singulis totus .

God is every where , and wholly every where .

By eternal stability remaining in himself , he is wholly in all things , and wholly in every thing .

Immortal .

I live for ever . Deut. 31.4

Dan. 4 34. I honoured him that liveth for ever .

Apoc. 4 9 He only hath immortality .

1 Tim. 6. 16. Solus Deus est immortalis , quia non est per gratiam , S. Hier. sed per naturam .

Eternal .

Without beginning .

Ps. 90. 2. Thou art God from everlasting .

Without end .

102. 27. Thou art the same , and thy years shall not fail .

Dan. 7.13 . He is called the Ancient of dayes .

Immutable .

Not to be changed .

1. In his Nature .

Ps. 102.26 Thou shalt endure .

Mal. 3. 6. I am the Lord , I change not .

Jam. 1. 17. Every good and perfect gift cometh from the Father of lights , with whom is no variableness , neither shadow of changing .

2. In his Promises and Decrees .

Pro. 19. 21 The counsel of the Lord shall stand .

Esa. 46. 10 My counsel shall stand .

Heb. 6. 17. The immutability of his counsel , saith the Apostle .

Tit. 1. 2. God hath promised , who cannot lie .

Non mutatur Deus , qui unus atque idem est , & mutari non potest . S. Hier.

God is not changed , being one and the same , uncapable of change .

Wise.

Nothing hid from him .

The Lord knoweth the wayes of the righteous . Psal. 1. 7

The Lord knoweth the thoughts of man . 94. 11.

His wisdom is infinite . 147 5.

No searching of his understanding . Esa. 40 28

Loe , thou knowest all things . Joh. 21. 17

Known unto God are all his works . Act. 15 18

O the depth of the riches , both of the wisdom and knowledge of God . Rom. 11. 33.

The Spirit searcheth all things . 1 Co. 2. 10

All things are naked and open to his eyes . Heb. 4. 13

God knoweth all things . 1 Joh. 3. 20

Holy .

No evil or iniquity in him .

Who is like unto thee , O Lord , glorious in holiness . Ex 15. 11.

None holy as the Lord . 1 Sam. 2. 2

The holy One of Iacob . Esa. 29. 23

The holy One . 40. 25.

Abac. 1.13 Of purer eyes , than to behold evil .

Esa. 6. 3. Holy , Holy , Holy is the Lord of Hosts .

Apoc. 4. 8. Josh. 24. 19. He is an Holy God .

Lev , 11. 44. I am Holy , saith God himself .

True .

1. In himself .

Whatsoever is in him is Truth .

Jer. 10.10 . The Lord is the true God .

Joh. 17.3 . It is life eternal to know thee true God , &c.

Rom. 3.4 . Let God be true , and every man a liar .

1 Thes. 1.9 Ye turned from Idols to serve the true and living God . Apoc. 15. 3. 16. 7.

2. In his works .

Dan. 9.14 . Iust and true are thy wayes .

Psal. 119. 137. 75. Righteous in all his works .

Iust art thou , O Lord , and righteous are thy judgements .

3. In his words .

Psal. 12 7. 117. 2. The words of the Lord are pure .

The Truth of the Lord endureth for ever .

Good .

Absolutely .

Not participating from any other .

1. In himself .

1. There is none good , but God . Thou art Good . Mat , 19. 17. 2. Author of all good to others . Ps. 119 68 2. Every good and perfect gift commeth from the Father of lights . Jam. 1. 17.

The Earth is full of his goodness . Psal. 33. 5.

Glorious .

Ye shall see the glory of the Lord . Exo. 16.7 . 10.

The glory of the Lord appeared .

The sight of his glory was like consuming fire . Exod. 22. 17.

The glory of the Lord appeared to all the people . Lev. 9. 23.

The glory of the Lord filled the House of God , 2 Chro. 5. 14.

The whole Earth is full of his glory . Esa. 6. 3.

His glory is above the Heavens . Ps. 113.4 .

Powerful .

Working all things in all .

Almighty . Gen. 17.1 . 43 14.

He doth great , unsearchable , and marvellous things without number . 2 Cor 6. 18.

The fabrique of the Universe is the work of his hands .

The Heavens beautified with Stars . Job . 5. 9.

The Earth spacious and adorned . Ps. 104.24 .

The Sea Full of variety of his riches ,

The Sea Stored with Fish , &c.

Psal. 33.6 . 74. 17. All made of nothing , but by his word .

Thou hast prepared the Light and the Sun .

102. 25. Thou in the beginning hast laid the foundations of the Earth .

Heb. 11.3 . Through Faith we understaud that the World was ordained by GOD.

Clem. Alex Mundus hic est veluti magnus liber , divinae Majestatis & gloria opera explicans .

This World may be compared to a great Volume , wherein are contained and expressed the works of the Divine Majesty and Glory .

Apo. 19. 16. He is King of Kings , Lord of Lords .

Upholding all the Pillars of the Earth .

Moving the Heavens .

Changing the Seasons .

Dividing the Waters .

Bringing forth the Winds , as out of his Treasury .

S. August . But in this , and all other his Attributes , Verius cogitatur quam dicitur , We may better couceive of them than express them : And we speak best of his worth , when with a silent admiration we hold our peace , according to that of the Psalmist , Psal. 65. 1. which St. Hierom hath translated , Tibi silet omnis laus DEUS in Sion .

Yet though the custom of the world is to respect men and things , either for the goodness in them , or for the benefit which accreweth by them ; Yet the latter worketh most : For let a thing be never so good , if it bring no profit , it is the less regarded .

Let us therefore take a view of some other of Gods Attributes , and consider whether we have not sufficient cause to serve him , for the benefits we reap by him .

And first of that which cometh by him by the

I. Creation .

In which he made Man , and all things else for his service .

1. He made him his chief delight .

He made him after his own Image . Gen. 1.27 .

He made him little lower than the Angels , and crowned him with glory and honour , putting all things in subjection under his feet . Psal. ● 5 , 6.

This wrought admiration in David .

When he was not , he made him a Man , not a Beast , but such a Creature as may enjoy Eternity with Him .

He made the Heaven and rested not . He made the Earth and rested not . ● . Ambr. He made the Sun and rested not . He made the Moon & and rested not . He made the Stars and rested not .

But when he made Man he rested , that he might have one Creature whose sins he might remit .

2. He made all things for the service of Man .

For him The Sun riseth and goeth down . For him The Moon increaseth . For him The Stars arise . ● Psal. 8. For him Beasts , Fowl and Fish . For him Corn and Hearbs . For him Hills and Mountains . For him Valleys and Fields . For him Rivers and Flowers . For him Times and Seasons . For him Angels and Archangels . For him Principalities and Powers . For him Thrones and Dominions . For him Cherubim and Seraphin .

If therefore every one be a debtor for that which he hath received , Arist. and that ( with the Philosopher ) Dii & Parentibus nunquam reddatur aequivalens ; A Man can never render that which is equivalent to that which he receives from GOD , or his Parents ; Man ought to remember his Creator with thankfulness as often and as long as he breaths .

If I be a Father , where is my honour ? Mat. 1. 5.

Hac conditione gignimur , ut generanti nos Deo justa & debita obsequia praebeamus . We are begotten upon this condition , to behave our selves in all due respect and observance to God who begat us .

II. By his Providence and Conservation .

Thou , O Man , hast no more power to subsist without him being made , than to be created before thou wert made .

Thou wert but once made , but oftentimes preserved from Fire , from Water , from Sickness , from Enemies , &c.

He defends us under the shadow of his wings . Psal. 944

He giveth his Angels charge over us , Psa. 91. ● . as in the example of Elizeus . 2 Reg. 6.

Ps. 103.13 He is as careful over us , as a Father over his Children ; Esa. 49.15 a Mother over hers ; Jo. 10.11 . a Shepheard over his Flock . Esa. 40,11

Eze. 39. 10. He governeth all things by his Providence .

Ps. 23.1.2 . Not a Sparrow falleth on the ground .

Wis 14.3 . He feedeth the young Ravens .

Mat. 10.29 He giveth us meat in due season .

Ps. 147 9. Cast your care on him , Ps. 145.15 for he careth for you . 1 Pet. 5 7.

Act. 17.28 In him we live , move , and have our being .

To end this with St. Ambrose .

If thou art sick , he is thy Physician . If thou art weak , he is thy strength . If thou fearest death , he is thy life . If thou desirest Heaven , he is the way . If thou shunnest darkness , he is the light . If thou wantest food , he is thy nutriment .

Ps. 144.5 . Blessed are the people , whose God is the Lord .

III. By his Love .

Pro. 8.17 . Delighting in the works of his hands .

Joh. 18.21 Loving them that love him .

1 Joh. 4. 10. 19. Nay when we loved not him , he first loved us .

Esa. 65.1 . I am found of them which sought me not .

Nay , when we were his enemies . Ro. 58.10

And that with a perpetual and everlasting love , Jer. 31. 3. especially manifested in our Redemption .

Which degree of his Love , and the benefit arising by it , no tongue or pen is able to express .

Saint Bernard saith , S. Bern. If I owe to God all that I am for my Creation , what shall I give further for my Redemption ? In my Creation he gave me to my self ; in my Redemption he gave himself to me , and restored me to my self .

1. And not only in respect of the Act it self .

2. But in regard of the Manner .

1. Man being fallen from blessedness by our first Parents sin , God in mercy had pitty on his estate , and was reconciled to him , was content that he should be redeemed from the bondage and penalty of sin , from everlasting death of body and soul , and this was the Act it self .

2. The Manner of it was extraordinary .

Even by his Son , his only Son , God from all eternity , taking ours , and not the Angels nature upon him .

Suffering death ; the worst , the most accursedst , of the Cross , even when we were his enemies .

Whereby we were not only freed from what we deserved , Punishment , eternal death of Body and Soul : But made capable of what we could not expect , everlasting felicity , and life of both .

Is not this love without parallel .

That we that were enemies , children of wrath , Io. 3. 1. and eternal perdition , should now be called the Sons of GOD.

This is a greater act of love , this manifesteth Gods love to us more than our Creation .

For by his word he created us without weariness ; But our Redemption cost more , his only Sons dearest blood .

1 Pet. 3.18 Who suffered for our sins , the just for the unjust .

Isa. 53.12 . And poured out his soul unto death .

Gal. 3. 13. Was made a curse for us .

Phil. 2.8 . Humbled himself to the death of the Cross.

To redeem us from the death and curse of the Law .

Ps. 111.9 . He sent Redemption unto his people .

He redeemeth Israel from all his sins . 139. 10.

He gave himself for us , that he might redeem us from all iniquity . Tit. 2.14 .

IV. By his Patience toward Men daily provoking him in all ages . 1 Pet. 3.20

In the dayes of Noah . Ge. 15.16 .

The Amorites . Ps. 95.10 .

The Israelites forty years . Act. 13.18

The Ninivites and many others . Jonas 3.

He is Long suffering , Exo. 34.6 . He is Slow to anger . Ps. 16.15 . 103. 8. Joel 2.13 . Jonas 4.2 .

V. By his Mildness .

Lenity in Correcting . Neh. 9.17

Not utterly consuming those whom he correcteth . Neh. 9.31 .

And it is of his mercy that we are not consumed . Lam. 3.22

In his anger remembring mercy . Abac. 32.

Not delighting in punishment . Ezec. 18. 23 32. 33. 11.

Not utterly taking away his mercy , Ps. 89 33. 103. 10.

Not dealing with us after our sins .

VI. By his Mercy and Grace to Sinners .

Be merciful , as your Heavenly Father is merciful . Lu. 6. 36.

The Father of mercy . 2 Cor. 1.3 .

He was ever so . Psal. 22.4 .

Eph. 24. He is tender and compassionate , rich , Rom. 5. 20 and not sparing in his mercy .

Ps. 130 7. Bringing many benefits with it .

Luk. 1 78. Begetting us again by it .

Ps. 106.43 Preserving us from dangers and sickness .

Ma. 18.27 . Preserving their souls .

1 Pet. 1.3 . Saving us by it , which is the chief and greatest benefit mankind can desire . Ps. 97.10 .

Phi. 2.27 . And as he is rich in mercy , by pardoning sinners , Ps. 79.10 . so in his favour too , Tit. 3. 5. promising good to his Servants .

Pro. 8.12 . 8. 21. I will love them that love me ,

I will inrich them .

Ps. 97.10 . The Lord will preserve the souls of his Saints .

102. 28. The Children of his Saints shall continue , and their seed stand fast in his sight .

Mar. 10. 29 , 30. No man that hath forsaken house , &c. for my sake , but he shall receive an hundred fold .

A hundred fold here , by inward graces , if not by outward dignity .

For deceivable things , they shall receive true .

For doubtful things , they shall receive certain .

For corporal things , they shall receive spiritual .

For transitory things , they shall receive permanent .

Their cares shall be turned into security .

Their tears into joy .

Their trouble into quiet .

Their perturbations into inward peace .

The righteous cry , and the Lord heareth them , and delivereth them out of all their troubles . Ps. 34.16 .

He that toucheth them , toucheth the apple of his eye . Zac. 2. 8

Not a bone of them shall be broken . Ps. 34.19 .

For God rewardeth secundum , though not propter opera .

And reward maketh all works seem easie ; to the Husbandman in his toyl , to the Merchant in his danger .

The reward of the good shall not fail . Ecclus. 2. 8.

The Lord is good to them that trust in him .

He sendeth health and wealth to his servants . Lam. 3.25 . Pro. 5.8.9 .

He never faileth them that seek him . Ps. 9. 10.

His reward is plentiful to them that fear him . Ps. 1. 31.

Now let us take a view of all these benefits .

1. Of our Creation , and in that of all things for our use .

2. Of Gods preservation and providence over us .

3. His love to us .

Before we loved him .

Loving him .

While we were his enemies .

With an everlasting love .

In such a large extent , by Our Redemption .

In the act . when we were in bondage of the Devil . Sin .

In the manner , by his only Son , by his death most ignominious and cruel .

To free us from deserved death .

To estate us in undeserved happiness , even life everlasting .

4. His Patience to us daily offending him , and new crucifying his Son again .

5. His Mildness and Lenity in correcting us to Amendment , not to Destruction .

6. His Mercy , in forgiving our offences , in promising protection and rewards to his servants .

And tell me , if these be not sufficient motives to perswade us to his service , if our hearts be not hardned ?

And if we ask what it is to be the servants of God ?

The Answer is plain and easie ; for as it is in the case of a Master Temporal , so is it in the Spiritual .

To do the Will of our Lord and Master .

This is the will of GOD , even your sanctification . 1 Thes. 43

To fear & keep his Commandements . Deu. 5.29

This Commandement is double .

1. To keep innocency , and to do that which is right . Ps. 37.38 .

2. And to do no evil . Eclus . 7.10 .

They are put both in one Verse by God himself .

I have set before thee life and good , death and evil . Deut. 30. 15.

And by the Prophet David .

Flee evil , and do that which is good . Ps. 37.27 .

Now that his Precepts should be kept , there is great reason .

Because they are just and holy . Rom. 7. 12

All his Commandements are just . Ps. 119.75

True and righteous are thy Iudgements . Apo. 17.7 .

Iust art thou , O Lord , and righteous are thy Iudgements . Psal. 119.

1. For the first part of his Will. To keep that which he commandeth . To follow that which is good . Many motives there are to perswade us to it .

1. For the peace which good men have ,

1. With God , They are reconciled to him .

Rom. 5.1 . We have peace with him .

2. With Men.

When the wayes of man please the Lord , R●o . 16.7 . he will make his enemies also at peace with him .

3. With our Selves .

Having mortified our affections , and placed them on heavenly things , we are troubled with nothing , but all things are quiet about us .

Psal. 112. 165. Great is the peace that they have which keep Gods Law .

Isa. 48. 18. 32. 17. The work of Iustice shall be Peace .

The Kingdom of GOD is righteousness , and peace .

4. Ro. 14.17 . 4. In our Consciences , inward Peace .

2 Cor. 1. 12. The testimony of a good Conscience was Saint Paul's rejoycing .

Pro. 15. 15 S. Hier. A good Conscience is a continual feast . It shuns no mans sight .

Tully . The Heathen had some feeling of this Peace , A life well spent bringeth such comfort , that either sickness toucheth them not , or the grief of it little troubles them .

Socrates said , Socrates . That he lived without perturbation , whose conscience reproved him not .

And Byas , Byas . That he lived without fear , that had a good conscience .

And though such a man have fear , it is not desperate or grievous , but religious and holy .

Which kind of fear , disquieteth not , but comforteth : For the best hope is joyned with such a fear .

2. For the comfort they have in the Holy Ghost .

There is sprung up a light for the righteous , Ps. 97 : 11 : and joyful gladness to such as be true hearted .

The voice of joy and health is in the dwellings of the righteous . 118. 15.

They shall be satisfied with the plenteousness of thy house , 36. 8. and thou shalt give them drink of thy pleasures , as out of the River .

All vertues and graces of the Spirit assist them , as the blood of the veins do the heart .

1. Faith , whereby they discern the good and evil of the life to come ; and adhere to the promises of God made in Christ Iesus . Ro. 8. 18. 1. 20. 5 10 So that they account not the afflictions of this life worthy of the glory which shall be revealed to them . Gal. 5. 5. Act. 10.43 Jer. 31.34

2. Hope , whereby they expect their reward joyfully .

Rejoycing in hope .

Rom. 12. 12. Who so trusteth in the Lord , mercy embraceth him on every side .

Ps. 31.11 . 40. 5. Blessed is the man that hath set his hope in the Lord .

Esa. 30.18 . Blessed are all they that wait for him .

Heb. 10. 35. Cast not away your confidence , which hath great reward .

3. Love to God .

Which breeds contempt of the World .

Phil. 3. 8. Accounting all things dung and loss to win him .

Jos. 23.11 . Take good heed therefore to your selves that you love the Lord your God .

Rom. 5.5 . The Love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the holy , Ghost .

Ro. 8. 35. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ ? shall tribulation , &c.

4. Alacrity in Obedience to his Commandements .

The heart of the wise meditateth obedience . Pro. 10. 8.

This is better than sacrifice . 1 Reg. 15 22.

Wee will do all things which the Lord hath commanded us . Exo. 19.8 .

I have set God before me , Psal. 16.

Wherefore my heart was glad . 9 , 10.

My heart and flesh rejoyce in the living God . 84. 2.

5. Humility in all their actions , which makes them acceptable in the sight of God .

When we have done all we are able to doe , we are to say that we are unprofitable servants .

He hath regarded the lowliness of his Handmaiden . Luc. 1.48 .

He hath exalted the humble and meek . 52.

Blessed are the meek , for they shall inherit the Earth . Mat. 5. 5 , 6.

Blessed are the poor in spirit , for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven .

He that humbleth himself shall be exalted .

6. Patience in their tribulations , which are accidents common to Gods Children .

For our life is like a troubled Sea . There is nothing so unstable , and no joy in it is secure ; but many dangers and sorrows attend it .

But God ( being a skilfull Physician , and knowing well the state of our souls ) will minister no more of those bitter potions than we are able to bear , nor than are needfull ; nor more than we may with patience endure .

Ps. 80. 5. Though he feed us with the bread of tears , and giveth us tears to drink , yet he will give it in measure , as a token of his love , in our correction to amendment , not to confusion .

For tribulation polisheth the soul , it wipes off all the filth , it makes us fervent in prayer , humble in thoughts , and pure in conscience . Adversity openeth the eyes , which prosperity closeth up ; but GOD suffereth the just , not to be overwhelmed with grief .

For though many be the tribulations of the righteous , yet the Lord delivereth them out of all .

If their sorrowes encrease , he lendeth strength , whereby they not only bear them patiently , but joyfully : insomuch as they look not on the pain , but the reward . Not on the affliction , but the Crown . Not on the bitterness of the Medicine , but the health attained by it . Nor on the smart of correction , but the Corrector . Who chasteneth whomsoever he loveth . Pro. 12 ,

And they shall be able to say with Iob , Shall we receive good at the hands of God , 2. 10. and not receive evil ? Knowing that the punishment they receive is not equivalent to that which their sins have deserved ; and withall , they consider the bitterness of Christs Passion ; in comparison whereof , all their tribulations are nothing , not to be mentioned .

Lastly , They have this assured confidence , That the patient abiding of the meek shall not perish for ever . Psal. 9.18 .

And that the Lord will save them , that with patience wait on him .

7. In regard that God heareth the prayers of the just .

Man by sin is become subject to many Infirmities , Wants , Necessities .

And hath no remedy to cure them , nor means to relieve them , but to God by prayer .

Now this advantage the godly , and servants of GOD have of the wicked , that the prayers of the ungodly are abomination unto him ; but his ears are open to the prayers of the righteous .

Ps. 34.14 . If ye abide in me , &c. Ask what ye will , and it shall be done unto you .

God inviteth them to call upon him .

50. 15. Call upon me in time of trouble , so will I hear thee .

Mat , 7. 7. Ask , and ye shall receive .

Esa. 58 9. Thou shalt call , and the Lord shall answer ; thou shalt cry , and he shall say , here I am .

65. 24. Yea , before they call I will answer and while they speak , I will hear .

He will grant them whatsoever they want .

O how plentiful is thy goodness , &c.

Length of dayes shall be in his right hand , Pro. 3.16 . and in his left hand riches and glory .

Pro. 43.9 . 37. 25. They that fear him lack nothing .

David never saw the righteous forsaken . Deut. 28.1 And a catalogue of blessings are promised to those which keep his Commandements .

He will give them in such measure as their necessity requireth ; if not largely , yet with the greater quiet and content .

As having nothing , yet possessing all things . 2 Cor. 6. 10.

8. Lastly , In regard of the comfort the servants of God feel at their death .

Who so feareth the Lord , it shall go well with him at the last , and he shall find favour in the day of his death . Eccl. 1.13

The righteous hath hope in his death . Pro. 14 32

The righteous find rest in death . Sap. 4.7 .

They shall have peace and rest . Esa. 57.2 .

Blessed are the dead which dye in the Lord . Apoc. 14. 13.

They fear not death , because they learn to dye all their life .

They fear not Iudgement , because they have Christ for their Advocate .

They fear not their sins , because they have Christ for their Redeemer .

They tremble not at the horror of the grave , knowing , that though the body be sown earthly , 1 Cor. 15 , ● it shall rise spiritually . And that it is not death , but sleep .

Qui minus deliciarum novit in vita , minus timet mortem .

He that is least acquainted with the pleasures of this life , is ever in least fear of Death .

But here one rub or difficulty is to be removed : For the nature of Man is deterred from good , upon any small occasion .

If it be a thing to be done with Ease , we are content to give ear to it .

If with labour and difficulty , we soon give out ; we put our hands in our bosoms with Solomons sluggard , and say , There is a Lyon in the way .

This ariseth out of the pravity of our heart , drawn from . Original sin , that is , of flesh conceived in sin .

Gal. 5.17 . The flesh lusteth against the spirit , which causeth us to loath goodness , as sick men do potions , for the bitterness , though profitable for health . And usually men look upon the supposed difficulties , not on the aid which commeth from above .

But if we look into that which God commandeth , with a spiritual eye , we shall find it , 1. Profitable . 2. Sweet . 3. Easie.

Ps. 19.10 . 1. The Statutes of the Lord are more to be desired than gold , yea than much fine gold .

King David took as much delight in them , 110. 19. as in all manner of riches .

A reward shall not fail to them which fear the Lord . Eccl. 2.8 .

Who ever abode in his fear , and was forsaken ? 10.

He hath promised many blessings to those which serve him . Levit. 26.

2. The Statutes of the Lord are sweeter than the honey , or the honey-comb . Ps. 19.10 . They are David's delight .

3. They are not hid from us , 1.9 . nor far off .

It is very near thee , even in thy mouth , and thy heart . Deut. 30. 11.

His yoke is easie . Mat. 11.30

His commands are not grievous or heavy . 1 Joh. 5.3 .

But plain and easie . Sap. 7.22 .

Add all these ; by Gods special assistance : For God giveth strength to him that fainteth , and to him that hath no strength he encreaseth power . Esa. 40.29 .

They that wait upon him , shall run , and not be weary ; walk , and not faint . 31.

Which made Saint Augustine cry out , Da Domine quod jubes , & jube quod vis .

So that though his service seem hard and heavy , yet by his grace he adds such strength to us , that it becometh light and easie .

Ezec. 11. 19. He will take our stony hearts from us , and give us hearts of flesh .

Deu. 30.6 . He will circumcise our hearts .

And though there will be some reliques of reluctancy , and tentations left in them , erunt quasi non sint .

They shall remain but for a trial , not to destruction . To stir us up , not to ensnare us . To minister occasion for a Crown , not to make us fall . Nor to reign in and over us .

Now we are to understand , that hard things are made the easier two wayes .

1. By a love and desire to attain them . 2. By a hate to that which opposeth them .

1. Saint Augustine saith , that labour and pains in which a man taketh delight , is not any way grievous , but delightful ; as that of the Hunter , Falconer , Fisher , and the like : For to compass that we love , either we count it no labour at all , or else we take delight in the pains : In amore nibil amari .

Which may appear in a Mother , in bearing and educating of her Children .

In a Wife , in pains taking with her sick Husband .

In Iacob's long service for Rachel . Gen. 19.

Which made St. Paul cry out .

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ ? Rom. 8.35 Shall tribulation , anguish , or persecution , &c.

Which caused the Apostles , Act. 5.41 . being beaten , to depart from the Council , Rejoycing that they were counted worthy to suffer rebuke for his Name .

This labour is also passed the easilier if we consider ,

The love of God to us .

The great things he hath done for us .

Those greater which he hath promised .

The sins wherewith we have offended .

The pains which Christ suffered for us .

Saint Bernard saith , The sufferings of this life , are not worthy the punishment remitted for sins past , the grace and comfort ministred to us for the present , or the glory to come , which is promised .

2. We are not to set our affections on this World , but to hate it , in respect of the opposition it is in to our service of God ; the love whereof ( if we take not heed of it ) infatuateth us , making us to take that for good , which only seemeth so .

Now there are divers reasons , why we should wean our selves from the love of it .

1. It is Transitory .

No happiness in it of continuance which daily experience proves . In some men preferred to honour , and others married contentedly , yet dying soon after .

But admit our lives were of a thousand years , what were they , being compared to eternity .

Eccl. 11.8 Though a man live many years , and in them all rejoyce , yet he shall remember the dayes of darkness , because they are many . All that cometh is vanity .

Baruch 3. 16. Where are the Princes of the Heathen ? &c.

All are but shadows , dreams , smoke .

Take Saint Hieromes Meditation on this point , Nihil puto in seculi hujus confusione esse perpetuum , sed omnia praeterire & fluere . Quae qui consideraverit , cadit superfaciem suam , intelligens quam pr●cul sit à Majestate Dei , & flectet genua ad Patrem in nomine Iesu Christi .

I conceive , that there is nothing perpetual in this confused and disordered life , but think that all things are transitory , and pass away . And whosoever duly considereth this , falls upon his face , ( knowing how far he is distant from the Majesty of GOD ) and will bend his knees to GOD the Father in the name of Iesus Christ , and crave to be dissolved .

2. It is Miserable .

Besides the brevity , many miseries accompany it .

No year , day , nor hour , but hath his misery .

One sues thee for thine estate ; another layeth wait for thy life ; a third wrongeth thy good name ,

Evil Children vex thee , if thou have any .

If thou hast none , thou art grieved for the want .

Thy Wife unchast , and unquiet , disquiets thee .

Thy friends death discomforts thee .

One loseth an eye ; another an arm .

One is slain by a fall from his horse ; Another perisheth by water or fire .

So that the miseries over-ballance the joyes : Then I would know what felicity is in it ;

Saint Augustine describes them at large , Plena sunt omnia laqueis , plena periculis : incitant cupiditates , insidiantur illecebrae ; blandiunt lucra , damna deterrent ; amarae sunt obloquentium linguae , nec semper veraecia sunt ora laudantium , &c.

All things are full of snares , full of dangers : concupiscence tickleth , allurements lye in wait , gain flattereth , loss terrifieth ; slanderous tongues of some are bitter , and the praises of others are not alwayes true , or pleasing to us , &c.

3. It is sinful .

All the actions of it , and of all that live in it being so .

In it you may see the Innocents afflicted , the Guilty acquit ; the good despised , the evil preferred .

Psal. 14. 3 , 4. The Lord himself looked down from Heaven upon the children of men , and found them all abominable , none to do good .

Hosea 4. 1 , 2. No truth , mercy , nor knowledge of GOD in the Land ; but swearing , lying , killing , and whoring .

If the Devil be Prince of the world , what goodness can be expected in his Dominions ?

4. Lastly , It is Deceitful .

It seems to be that it is not : promiseth that it gives not .

Out of the pleasures thereof , arise many sorrows .

Children bestowed , bring cares .

Honour enjoyed , brings emulation .

Wealth encreased , brings fear .

Offices possessed , bring envy .

Unlawful pleasures used , bring diseases .

If the World flatter thee , it is but to deceive thee .

If it exalt thee , it is but to cast thee down headlong .

If it make thee merry , it is but in short time after to afflict thee the more .

Extrema gaudia luctus occupaet .

Si spes nobis in vita non esset relicta , S. Bern quam de vita futura concipimus , non multum hic mundus ab inferno distaret .

If we had not here some hope left to us , which we conceive of the felicity of the life to come , there were little difference between this World , aud Hell it self .

1 Joh. 2. 15 Therefore ( to end this first point ) love it not : for he which loves it , hath not the love of God in him .

Colos. 3.2 But settle your affections on high , on God alone , in whose service consists true happiness .

No Creature can be fully at rest , till it attain to the end for which it was created , but is restless till then . Now God is the object of Mans happiness , and the end of his felicity

Nothing can satisfie Mans heart , but God , nor can it be at rest , ( though it possess the whole world ) till it return to him . The nearer to him the quieter .

No Man hath perfect blessedness in this World .

Eccles. 1. 2. Vanitas vanitatum & omnia vanitas , said Solomon , who had his hearts desire as much as any .

Psal. 4. 1. Usque quo filii hominum ? How long will ye have pleasure in vanity , in the things of this life , follow lies , in the false appearance of them .

The World is a Hypocrite , covers his defects .

It is a Harlot that bears her Lover out of doors , when their money is spent .

I will conclude with Saint Augustine , Mare , terras , & omnia percurre , scrutare universa , & ubique misereris , nisi ad Deum refugeris .

Travel over Sea and Land , and search all places , yet shalt thou be miserable and wretched every where , except thou have recourse to God .

And in Gods service all good is to be found .

If thou desire profit :

Eye hath not seen , &c. what God hath prepared for them that love him . 1 Cor. 2.9

If length of dayes :

Length of dayes is in his right hand . Pro. 3 , 16.

If pleasures :

Pleasures for evermore .

If honour :

The Iust shall be had in everlasting remembrance . Ps. 112 6.

Them that honour me , I will honour .

Blessed therefore are they which are undefiled in the way , and walk in the Law of God . 119. 1.

Blessed are they which keep his testimonies , and seek after him with their whole heart . 119. 2.

II. The second part of Gods service in general , is , To avoid that which he forbiddeth , that is , Sin .

The difinition whereof , and how it cometh , you shall have out of St. Gregory .

All sin is committed gradatim , by three degrees .

1. By Suggestion of the Devil . 2. By Delight of the Flesh. 3. By Consent of the Spirit .

1. For when the malicious Spirit suggesteth sin in the mind of Man , no delight in it follow , sin is no way acted .

2. But when the flesh beginneth to delight in it , the sin is begun to be in the birth .

3. Then ; if a Man descend to consent , upon deliberation , then it is plain that sin is committed .

So that in the suggestion is the seed , in the delight is the nourishment , and in the consent is the full accomplishment .

Now as vertue and goodness is for divers respects to be followed : So sin is to be avoided for many reasons .

Because God hateth sin and sinners .

The Psalmist calleth sinners Gods enemies . Ps. 37.20 .

The ungodly and his ungodliness are both hated alike of God . Sap. 14.9 .

Your iniquities have separated you from God . Jer. 5.

His hate may appear by the continuance of it . Esa. 59.2 .

He visiteth the wickedness of the Fathers upon the Children , in the third and fourth generation . Num. 14. 18.

Seeing thou hast forgotten the Law of thy God , I will also forget thy children . Exod. 24. 7. 20. 5. Hos. 4. 6●

2. By with-holding good things from them .

I will hide my face from them . Deut. 32. 20.

I will take away the hedge of my Vineyard . Esa. 5. 51

I will not feed you . Zac. 11.9 .

I will be to Ephraim as a Moth. Hos. 5.12 .

3. By the severe punishment of Offenders from time to time .

Who gave Iacob for a spoyl , and Israel to the Robbers ? Did not the Lord , because we have sinned against him . Esa. 42.14 .

For sin God drove our first Parents out of Paradise . Gen. 3.

The Angels from Heaven .

Sodom and Gomorrah was consumed by fire . 19.

7. The whole World by Deluge .

God drowned Pharaoh , and the Egyptians .

Num. 16. Destroyed Korah , Dathan , and Abiram .

Levit. 10. 1 Sam. 4. The two Sons of Aaron , and of Heli.

Acts 5. Ananias and Saphira .

Luc. 23. Ierusalem his own City ; and o● 600000. which went out of Egypt only two came into the Land of promise .

Because God heareth not the prayers of the wicked .

Esa. 1.15 . When they stretch out their hands , he will hide his eyes from them , and though they make many prayers , he will unhear them .

Job 25. 9. God will not hear their cry , when trouble cometh upon them .

Ps. 66.16 . If I encline my heart unto wickedness the Lord will not hear me .

Job 35.12 They shall cry , but he heareth not .

Pro. 28 9. He that turneth his ear from hearing the Law , even his prayer shall be abominable .

Esa 59.2 . Your sins have hid his face from you that he will not hear .

Lam. 3.44 Thou hast covered thy self with a cloud , that our prayers should not pass through . Eze. 8. 18.

Though they cry in mine ears with a loud voice , yet will I not hear them .

And therefore the hope of the wicked in Gods Mercy is vain , seeing he refuseth to hear them .

Their hope is but like the dust blown away with the wind .

Or a thin froth driven away with a storm .

Or a smoke dispersed with a tempest .

Or a guest that tarrieth but a day .

Because the wicked live in bondage , in slavery to sin .

For sin is a Tyrant , tyrannizeth over his followers . He that committeth sin , is a servant to sin .

To the Instigators of it . The World . The Flesh. The Devil .

And the flesh serveth the two other by sensuality , Appetitus Sensitivus .

By which the wicked ( as the Apostle saith ) are sold under sin , as slaves in a Fair. And this made Solomon infatuated with his Concubines .

It infatuates the Adulterer with his Adultery . The Covetous with his Riches . The Ambitious with his Honour . The Voluptuous with his Pleasures . Sam. 13 It made Amnon commit Incest .

And this cometh by privation of Grace , which should bridle their Affections , and by letting loose their Appetites , which are like Devouring Beasts . like Blood-Suckers . like The Pit unsatiable .

Because they are in continual trouble , 4 4 Esa. 57.20 like the raging Sea that cannot rest , whose waters cast up mire and dirt .

21. There is no peace to them .

1. Their passions are concupiscible and Irascible .

If the first cannot obtain what it would , the other is troubled . And by these two the whole man is disquieted .

Jam. 4 1 , 2 From whence are warrs and contentions amongst you ? are they not hence ? even of your own concupiscences , which fight in your members ? for ye lust , and have not .

2. No peace in their Consciences .

Conscientia Improborum improbis ipsis adversatur ; The Conscience of the wicked is even an adversary to the wicked himself .

An evil Conscience makes men fear shadows where no fear is .

Mala Conscientia terret vel audadissimum ; An evil Conscience is terrible even to the boldest and hardest man .

The witked flee where none pursueth . Pro. 28.1 .

The sound of fear is in his ears . Job 15.21

Timor Divina dispensatione malos comitatur .

They have five thornes pricking them .

1. The enormity of their sin . 2. The offence done to others , crying like Abels blood . 3. The infamy which followeth sin . 4. The offence to God . 5. The fear of punishment .

Tell me not , S. Chrysost. ( saith a Father ) of a wicked man , which fareth deliciously , is apparelled costly , is wealthy in substance , but discover his Conscience , and there thou shalt find fears , tempests , and troubles , arraigning , and executing himself , when none but God and his own Conscience know his own deeds .

Who hath resisted God , and hath peace .

S. Aug. Thou , O Lord , ( saith another ) hast so appointed , that the disordered soul should be his own tormentor .

S. Ambr. What greater punishment ( saith third ) than the wound of Conscience which is more to be shunned that death or banishment .

S. Isid. A Man may avoid all things ( saith a fourth ) but his own heart ; from himself he cannot slee ; wheresoever he goeth , the guilt of Conscience followeth .

His Conscience is ever in pain .

3. No peace in this world .

In regard of the terror of Conscience , as is said .

Of the infamy they receive by it .

Of the fear of the pains deserved .

Of the loss of temporal blessings .

4. They are without aid or comfort from God .

Afflictions find them unarmed , unprovided to withstand them .

They have no footing to stay them , no hand to help them , nor no Pilot to guide them : But they are swallowed in the Sea of tribulations .

So that while the good rejoyce , they mourn .

While they walk dry , these are drowned .

And while they praise God , these blaspheme .

By the same fire of tribulation , the gold ( the just ) is tryed ; and the stubble ( the wicked ) is consumed .

The Red Sea drowned the AEgyptians , and saved the Israelites .

Lastly , The end of the wicked is miserable .

Their miseries do but begin in this world .

And in their death they are Heirs to Serpents , Eccles. 10. 12. Beasts , and Worms .

They perish as if they had never been . 44. 9.

Horrible is the end of the wicked . Sip. 3. 16.

Evil in loss of the world their delight .

Worse in the separation of body and soul.

Worst in the Iudgement of both .

Evil in the pains of the body ; in the fears of the mind ; in the afflictions for loss of temporal things ; in the afflictions for want of internal grace ; in the horror of the grave ; in the remembrance of sin committed ; in the fear to render an account ; in the terror in conscience ; in the terror for the sentence ; in the grief for loss of time of repentance ; and evil in the grief for ill-spending it .

When they look back , they consider a short life ill spent .

When forward , a long time to suffer for it .

They grieve for losing the joy of eternity ; for mispending that time they had to get it ; for changing such unspeakable joyes , for such transitory pleasures .

Their worm never dyeth , but gnaweth , and vexeth for ever .

S. Isid. Dost thou desire then never to be sad ? Live well - for a secure Conscience passeth over sorrow lightly , and a good life hath joy ever attending it .

To sum up all .

Consider the Motives which perswade us to his Service , in doing that which is good .

1. Whereby we have peace with God , our Selves , our Consciences .

2. The Comforts in the Holy Ghost , who assisteth the good with faith , to adhere to Gods promises .

With Hope , to expect the reward . Love to GOD. Obedience to his precepts . Humility in their actions . Patience in tribulation .

3. Gods readiness to hear their Prayers .

4. Their comfortable end .

Then the facility , profit , and pleasure to do well .

By a love to goodness , and hate to the world .

Because it is Transitory . Because it is Miserable . Because it is Sinful . Because it is Deceitful .

Et servite Domino in laetitia . Ps. 100. ●

Draw near to him with a pure heart , Heb. 10. 22. in assurance of Faith , our hearts being pure from an evil Conscience .

And consider the Reasons why we should detest sin .

1. For Gods hate to the wicked . 2. For Gods rejecting their Prayers . 3. The bondage of the ungodly . 4. Their troubles in the passions of the mind , their consciences in this world without comfort from GOD. 5. Their miserable end .

Et Servite Domino in Timore . Psal. 2● 11 ,

Walk after God , and fear him . Deut. 13.4 .

Heb. 4. 11. 16. That thou mayest go boldly to the Throne of Grace : Find mercy , and receive help in time of need .

A general Exhortation to Prayer .

OF all the parts of Gods service , Prayer justly challengeth the first place : For , in as much as the best of Gods children are subject to many infirmities , and even the just Man falleth seven times a day , and that Mans life ( by reason of sin ) is exposed to many dangers , troubles and afflictions , it therefore behoveth us much , and concerneth us near , to seek out some remedy , as well to strengthen our selves from the assaults of our several enemies , that ( as much as flesh and blood will permit ) we fall not ; as to raise us again when we are cast down and dejected , either by the sight of our sins , or the crosses and afflictions of this life . And in this distress , what course shall we think upon to relieve us , or what means shall we find to aid and succour us .

Certainly none other better than that which GOD himself of his goodness hath prescribed and commended unto us , In regard of Gods Precept . and by his word hath commanded us to have recourse unto , whensoever we shall be thus afflicted , namely , Prayer , Call upon me ( saith he ) in the day of trouble . Ps. 50.15 . Come unto me ( saith Christ ) all ye that labour , Mat. 12.18 and are heavy laden . Seek ye the Lord ( saith the Prophet ) and call upon him . Esa. 55.6 Is any afflicted ( saith he , by the Apostle ) let him pray . Jam. 5.13 . Be instant in Prayer . 1 Thes. 5. 17. Continue in Prayer . Colos 4.2 .

And the better to stir us to this duty , God hath added to this Precept a Promise also ; His Promise . that we shall not lose our labours , or pray to him in vain ; for , Mat. 7. 7. No sooner shall we ask , but he will give : Jo. 16.23 . No sooner call , but he will answer and deliver . Ps. 91.15 . Nay , more , for if God perceive but our inclination to pray to him , he will prevent us , and before the petition is gone out of our mouths ; Esa. 65.24 Before we call , he will answer ; and while we are speaking , he will hear . We may with confidence build upon it , that either he will give what we ask , or that which shall be more profitable to us .

Example of Christ . And as we have this Precept and Promise to provoke us to pray to him : So have we the Example ( not only of all the Saints of God , but ) of Christ Iesus himself : Mat. 14. 23. 26. 39. who ( while he was conversant in the flesh upon earth , Jo. 11 47. though he were wholly without spot or blemish , Mat. 1.35 . wholly innocent , immaculate , and needing nothing , yet ) often and earnestly prayed , for our imitation .

The Necessity . Among all the Evangelical Precepts or Counsels , there is not any one duty upon which our Saviour more earnestly beateth , or to which with more fervency he inviteth his Apostles or Disciples , than this of Prayer . The necessity whereof he enforceth ( among other places of Scriptures ) by the Parable of the unjust Iudge , and the poor importunate Widow .

And indeed , Mans nature ever since the fall of Adam , being become earthly , carnal , and wretched , it cannot keep Gods Law , which is spiritual . Ego carnal is sum , saith the Apostle . Rom. 7. 14.

Again , as long as we live in this vale of misery , we being compassed with cares , tentations , and afflictions , have no other means to free our selves from them , than to beg at the gates of Gods mercy , ( Ego mendicus sum , & pauper , I am poor and needy , saith the Psalmist ) either for grace , favour , and remission of sins ; or the mortification of our affections , spiritual comfort ; or lastly , for supply of temporal blessings .

Neither can any so well conceive the necessity of this duty , as they who ( by the illumination of Gods Spirit ) see the miserable condition they are brought into , by reason of sin . And what would become of miserable Man , if this help were wanting , but being carnal , be wholly transformed into flesh ? The contrary effect whereto , Prayer worketh in us ; for it elevateth us from earthly to heavenly thoughts , whereby the heat and affections of the flesh are cooled and quenched ; Prayer being as the refreshing of the lungs to the heat of the heart , without which Man could not subsist .

The Dignity . But admit there were no necessity imposed on us to pray , yet the dignity and honour we receive by Prayer should incite us to it : For Prayer ( as a Father well saith ( Is a familiar conference with God . Ephr. By it we talk with him ( as it were ) face to face . By other of his Graces ( as in the Word and Sacraments ) he vouchsafeth to speak to us , by this we have access and speak to him , for what we stand in need of . And what greater dignity , what greater priviledge can be afforded to poor sinful creature : ( dust and ashes as we are ) than familiarly to talk with so great and powerful a God , and to have daily so free and easie admittance to his presence , to manifest our necessities to him , and to crave his supply and succour ? Nay more , to become his houshold servants , ( the Church being called his House ) a favour , which King David esteemed the fruition of one day , more than a thousand elsewhere .

Benefit . Then , if we consider the profit which ariseth by the performance of this duty , we shall be the easilier perswaded to undertake it : For , if nothing else quicken us , yet matter of benefit doth usually work with us , And assuredly , the benefit which ariseth by it , is , and ever hath been great ; for by Prayer we do not only obtain of God all good things pertaining to the sustentation of this life , ( as the necessaries thereof ) and the life to come , ( as the gifts and graces of the holy Spirit ) but we also prevent and remove by it all the dangers and evils of both lives : as the losses and perils incident to this life , and the punishment due to our sins hereafter . Prayer enlightneth , purgeth , and comforteth ; maketh tribulations seem light , breeds servency , begets confidence in Gods mercy , and overcometh all tentations . Take it away , and take the Sun out of the world , for without we wander in darkness . With what Medicines did the Saints heal incurable diseases , cast out Devils , raise the dead to life , tame wild beasts , quench the force of fire , nay , change the course of the Elements , & powers of Heaven , but by Prayer ? What should I say more ? By it we may do all things , without it nothing .

If you please , you may take a short view of the wonderful effects which have been wrought , and the benefits which have been obtained , and the punishments which have been averted in former times , when recourse was had to God by Prayer .

By it Exod. 17. The Iews overcame the Amalekites . 1 Sam. 7. Samuel overcame the Philistines . Judith 13. Iudith overcame Holofernes . 1 Chr. 5. 20. The Reubenites overcame the Agarens . 2 Chr. 14 20. Asa overcame the Ethiopians . Iehosaphat overcame the Ammonites . 2 Kings 19. 15. Ezechias overcame Sennacerib .

2 Chr. 33. 15. Manasses was restored to His Kingdom .

By it 1 Sam. 1. 9. Hanna became fruitful . 1 Kin. 18. James 5. Elias obtaned sire from Heaven , as also rain and fair weather . By it The rebellious Iews escaped Punishment . Exod. 32. Numbers 21. 7. The Ninivites escaped Destruction . Jonas 3. Ezechias escaped Death , 2 Kin. 20. The three Children escaped the fiery Fornace . Dan. 3. Daniel escaped the Lyons . Dan. 6. Ionas escaped the Whale . Jonas 2. The Disciples escaped Drowning . Mat. 8.25 . Peter escaped Bonds . Acts 12. Paul and Silas escaped Imprisonment . Acts 16. By it David stayed the Pestilence . 2 Sam. 24. The Lepers were clensed . Luc. 12. The Centurions servant was healed . Mat. 8. The blind received sight . Mat. 9 20. The Womans Daughter were delivered from the Devil . Luc. 18. The Mans Son were delivered from the Devil . Mat. 15. 17. The sick were made whole . Acts 28. 1 Kin. 18. The Widow of Sarepthas Son were revived . 2 Kin. 14. The Shunamites Son were revived . Mar. 9. The Rulers Daughter were revived . Acts 7. Dorcas were revived . Luc. 18. 23. The Publican obtained Remission of sins . The Thief obtained Paradise . Acts 7. S. Stephen obtained Heaven .

And lastly , That it is the surest remedy to the godly in time of affliction , appeareth by our Saviours example , who ( when he was in such straits , Mar. 26. 36. that he said , Undequaque trist is anima mea , Mat. 14. 34. usque ad mortem , My soul is exceeding sorrowful , even unto death ) went aside , and fell thrice on his face , and prayed , warning his sleepy Disciples to do the like .

Directions how to pray . Now , Seeing that for these respects pray we must , in the next place we are to consider , How Prayer is to be made , that it turn not to sin .

1 1 To God only . 1. Prayer must be made to God , and to none other .

1. Because God hath so commanded . For Prayer is a part of his Service and Worship ; Deu. 9.13 and his Service and Glory he will impart to none else . Him only shalt thou serve . Mat. 4.10 . And Whatsoever you shall ask of my Father , Joh 19.23 4. 21. not of Angels , Saints , or the like .

2. In regard of his Glory and Majesty , Psa. 24.8 . 96. 6.99.2 . 104. 1 wherein he excelleth all others , and ought therefore above all to be prayed unto . Luc. 11.13

3. In regard of his singular Knowledge ; Esa. 40. 10. 12. for he knoweth our necessities better than we our selves . Psal 66.2 .

4. In regard of his Power and Ability to help us . Psal. 17.6 . 18.6 103.

5. In regard of his willingness and readiness to relieve us . Esa. 46.4 .

6. In respect of the practice of all the Saints , and of Christ himself .

Of Hanna , of David , of the Saints , 1 Sam. 1. 15. of Christ .

7. In regard of the absurdity in praying to those which cannot help themselves , Psal. 25.1 . 73.25.5.1 . 77.1 . much less us . Psal. 22.41 For to which of the Saints or Angels can be properly said , Mar. 14. 23 Our Father which art in Heaven , Esa. 43. 11. 45. 5. or Hallowed be thy Name , &c. But to GOD alone is this service to be done ; for he only saveth us , and besides him is no Saviour .

In Christ . And all this must be done in Christ Iesus , without whom , though Moses and Samuel should intercede , yet GOD would not pardon , but destroy ; for as no work of devotion can be acceptable to God without Him , so our sins are so odious , that except our prayes be offered by the mediation of Christ Iesus , they will never be accepted by God .

Heb. 4.14 . We have an High Priest , that is passed into the Heavens , Iesus the Son of God , &c.

2 2 In Faith . Secondly , Our Prayes ought to be made in Faith , for whatsoever is not of Faith ; is sin ; and whosoever desireth to have good success in his Prayers , ought to believe , and not to pray waveringly . This Faith makes our Prayers acceptable : For ( Prayer being the testimony of our Faith ) how will our Faith appear , if we doubt in our Prayers ? S. August . Si Fides deficit , oratio perit . Our Saviour said to the Petitioner for his deaf and dumb Son If thou canst believe , Mat. 9.23 . all things are possible to him that believeth . And to his Disciples , All things whatsoever you shall ask in Prayers believing you shall receive : Which lesson St. Iames also teacheth , Jam. 2.5.6 If any man lack wisdom , let him ask of God , &c. But let him ask in Faith . Saint Iohn saith , 1 Joh. 5.14 This is the confidence we have in him , that if we ask any thing according to his will , he heareth us . Saint Paul also biddeth us , Heb. 4.16 . Come with the same confidence that we may obtain mercy .

Again , As Faith is the foundation of all Vertues required in Prayer , 3 3 In Hope . so Hope , certain and assured , is to be fixed and setled in us ( when we pray ) that God will perform the promises which he hath made , and that he will hear and grant those things which we shall desire , according to his will ; for the Devil is apt to perswade us , that our Prayers are in vain , either because God regardeth them not , or that it is needless to pray to Him , who knoweth before what we want ; or that ( whether we pray or not ) all things shall come to pass as God hath decreed ; and in these respects , that there is no profit in our Prayers . All which are but illusions , and clearly against the rule of truth , and practice of the Saints : In te speraverunt , saith David , Psal. 22.4 . Our Fathers hoped in thee , they trusted in thee , and thou didst deliver them . 1 Chron. 5. 20. The Reubenites cryed to God in battel , and he was intreated of them , because they put their trust in him .

Indeed , as Saint Bernard saith , a sinners prayers are hindered two ways , either with too little or too much light . He hath no light which neither seeth nor confesseth his sins , and he hath too much , which seeing them , despaireth of Gods mercy . Neither of these can be said to pray . How then ? The sinner ought so to temper his light , that he may not only see and confess his sins , but pray that they may , and hope that they will be forgiven . For it is in Prayer as in Repentance , Nemo potest agere poenitentiam , qui non speravit indulgentiam : No man can truly repent , that hath no hope of pardon for that he repenteth of : And none can be said to pray well , who hopeth not of Gods favour , in that for which he petitioneth .

4 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. 5.22 . For without this quality , our Prayers will prove cold , heavy , and lumpish ; and will return empty unto us . This Charity is two-fold ; First , towards God ; Secondly , towards our Neighbour .

1. Towards God , in keeping his Commandements ; John 14. 21 , 23. for our Saviour saith , He that keepeth my Commandements , is he that loveth me : And the Apostle saith , 1 John 5. 22. We receive of him , because we keep his Commandements ; that is , we love him so , that we are both to offend him .

2. Towards our Neighbour , which Charity is also manifested two ways .

1. In forgiving all injuries received from him , or by his means , after our Saviours rule , Mat. 11. 25. When you stand praying , forgive , if you have ought against any ; that your Father also , which is in Heaven , may forgive you our trespasses . And again , 6. 14 , 15. If you forgive men their trespasses , your heavenly Father will also forgive you : But if you forgive not men their trespasses , either will your Father forgive your trespasses ,

2. Secondly , In praying for his wants , and supplying them to o●● powers , according to Saint Iames direction , Tim. 5. 16. 1 Tim. ● . 1. Pray for one another . And to Saint Paul's , I exhort , that first Prayers , &c. be made for all men . And to encourage us to relieve them our Saviour pronounceth a blessing ●● all that are charitable in that kind Blessed are the merciful , Mat. 5. 7. for they shall obtain mercy .

So that by this we may plainly see that if we be uncharitable , our Prayer will be barren , and unfruitful .

5 5 In Humility . Fifthly , Humility must accompany these former Vertues . We must acknowledge our selves unworthy to receive any thing ; we are not to arrogate any thing for any merit of our own , but confess that we are nought but dust , pollution , and a masse of corrupption ; that we brought nothing into this world , nor have gathered any therein , but uncleanness . We must say with Iacob , Minor sum Domine omnibus tu is beneficiis , Gen. 32. 10. I am not worthy of the least of all thy mercies . Luc. 18. And with the Publican ( whom our Saviour commended to us for a pattern ) deny our own unworthy 〈◊〉 deserve any favour . Which Humility of his ( as appeareth by that Story or Parable ) made his prayer more acceptable to God , than the vaunting and boasting of the proud Pharisee . And with David saith , Ps. 51.17 . A broken and contrite heart , O God , thou wilt not despise . And the Son of Syrach , Ecclus. 35. 17. The Prayer of the Humble pierceth the Clouds . And lastly , Luc. 1. 52. the Virgin Mary , He hath exalted the Humble and Meek .

This Humility is likewise two-fold .

1. Of the Spirit . 2. Of the Body .

1. For by the First , we acknowledge the impurity of our souls , and confess our selves wicked , miserable , and wretched in our own eyes , and that our strength is not worth the coasting of ; which kind or manner of prayer hath ever wrought effectually with God . The Prophet Esay witnesseth it , Esa. 66.2 . To this man I look , even to him that is of a poor , and of a contrite spirit . And the Psalmist testifieth , how propense and propitious GOD is to such kind of Petitioners .

The Lord is nigh to them that are of a contrite heart , Ps. 34. 1-● and will save such as are of an humble spirit .

And the blessed Virgin acknowledgeth that she found the fruits of her Humility , Luc. 1.48 . He hath regarded the lowsiness of his Hand-maiden .

Secondly , We are to use an outward gesture , answerable to our inward devotion : We must manifest our Humility by a reverend posture of the body too . God is as well Creator of the body ( which is the souls temple ) as of the soul : and therefore expecteth to be honoured by both . And as it is not to be denyed , that the inward affections are to be regarded in the prime place ; yet it will not be unnecessary to observe with what postures the holy men in sacred Story powred out their petitions : Gen. 13.2 . Abraham ( speaking to God ) fell on his face , and bowed to the ground . 1 Ki. 8.22 Solomon , at the Dedication of the Temple , stood before the Lord , and spread forth his hands to Heaven . Lu. 18. 13. The Publican stood and smote his breast . Ex. 17.11 . Moses held up his hands to Heaven . Dan. 6.01 Daniel , Stephen , Peter , and Paul kneeled . Act. 7. 60. 9. 40. David kneeled , and lifted up his eyes . Lastly , Ps. 95. 6. our Saviour Christ ( every one of whose actions ought to be a rule to us ) sometimes fell on his face , sometimes kneeled , Mat. 26. 39. Lu. 22.41 . and sometimes lifted up his eyes when he prayed .

Not that Gods worship is absolutely or universally tyed to these outward Ceremonies , Joh. 11.41 . but that they serve to stir up the inward intentions and affections , for while we kneel , and lift up our eyes and hands to Heaven , we shew our humility , and declare our ardent desire and confidence , that all our aid and help we expect from God , and none else . Therefore , the acts of humiliation , of casting dust on their heads , putting on sack-cloath , rending of garments , mentioned in holy Writ , are there set down to no other purpose , but to make their Humility that used them appear , and to be a pattern for us in after times . Neither is it without reason , that Man ( being a creature consisting of body and soul ) should serve his Creator with both , which makes us a perfect Holocaust or Sacrifice .

And as we have yielded our members servants to uncleaness , Ro. 6 . 19● and to iniquity unto iniquity : so we should yield our members servants to righteousness , unto holiness .

And to this reverend gesture of the body , must be added the uncovering of the head . 1 Cor. 11. 4. Our heads must be bare , and we must 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 reverend and submiss ought our behaviour be to him in our petitions .

6 6 In Perseverance . In the next place , We must resolve with our selves , not to be impatient of delayes , ( as we call them ) if God seem not to hear us presently . But we must pray with Perseverance . Our Saviour himself ( immediately after he had prescribed to his Disciples that absolute form of prayer ) taught them also ( and us in them ) the effects of this vertue , by the Example of the Friend which came in the night to borrow Loaves . Luc. 11.8 . 18. Ps. 40. 1. Mat. 15. 28. Col. 4. 2. 1 Thes. 4. 17. And shortly after by that of the Importunate Widow . Which effects also David , and the Woman of Canaan felt : Wherefore , not without good reason did St. Paul so often counsel this assiduity and servency in prayer .

And though we make our conclusions by events , ( which we usually take notice only by ) that God is not moved by our prayers , nor we bettered by them ; we must resolve , that the fault is ours , and not Gods ; For either we ask things not to be prayed for .

Or coldly , not intending what we desire .

Or not with due reverence and patience .

Or else GOD yieldeth not , either to inflame our zeal .

Or to set an edge on our desires .

Or to humble us .

Or to prove us by adversity , as well as by prosperity .

Or to try whether we serve him for our own ends , or his glory .

Or else the time is not come which he knoweth meetest to grant what we pray for .

Elias being persecuted by Iezabel , 1 Ki. 19.4 . prayed , that GOD would take away his life , which GOD granted not presently , 2 Reg. 2. 11. yet afterward took him into Heaven .

Deus multos non jam exaudiat ad voluntatem , S. Bern. sed paulo post ad salutem ; God hears not many men presently according to their desire , but after a while he gives ear to them , to their good and salvation .

Therefore we must not give over at the first , second , or third time . For no doubt , Luc. 11.9 . but he which said , Ask , and ye shall have , will also give what he promised , when he thinketh expedient that we should receive it .

Ps. 27.14 . O tarry thou the Lords leisure , saith David . And let not us prescribe to God either time , place , or manner , but in all modesty , humility , patience , and perseverance , attend his good pleasure .

Ferventy . Diligence , Attention . Three other Qualities there are , which seem to depend upon this last Vertue of Perseverance ; for , as the difficulty to pray aright ariseth of three causes .

1. The Corruption of our Nature depraved by sin . 2. Evil custom or habit , in suffering our hearts to wander when we are at our Devotions . 3. The malice of Satan , who ( out of his inveterate hate to mankind ) intangles our thoughts with other matters , when we should intend this act .

The Remedies therefore fit to oppose these , are . 1. A fervent desire to the action ; for what we zealously affect , we soonest compass . 2. That we be diligeut and couragious to overcome all difficulties ; for as all Creatures have a concupiscible nature , to obtain things necessary to preservation , so have they an irascible , to resist all obstacles which may be to their detriment . It must not be with us as with the sluggard , Vult & non vult , Prov. ●● have a desire to it for the excellency , but give it over for the difficulty . 3. That we be attentive to what we are doing , and keep our hearts from vain and wandring cogitations ; Omni custodia serva cor tuum , quia ex ipso vita procedit ; Keep thy heart with all diligence , for there-out cometh life ; Pro , 4.23 . for as our heart is , so will all the actions be which proceed from it .

For it is not a chill and cold Perseverance , or Expectation , that will serve our turns to prevail with God , but a fervent spirit to pursue the same . For God heareth not , ( at least regardeth not ) as not loud crying , long babling , or many tautologies , or repetitions : so neither cold , faint , and drowzy prayers , ( not intending , or minding what we pray for ) which proceed only from the lips : but it is the affection , and zealous desire of the devout , mixed with sighs , tears , and groans , not to be uttered , Rom. 8. 26. which move , and prevail with him , For God ( being a Spirit ) looketh to be worshipped in spirit . To which purpose it is that our Saviour Christ adviseth us , when we pray , to enter into our Closets , and to shut the door : intimating to us thereby , Mat. 6. 6. that we ( being alone , and private ) should cast away all publique wandering , and worldly thoughts , which trouble our devotions , and hinder us from lifting up our hearts unto God : and wholly , fervently , and considerately , bend our thoughts and desires unto him . And these retired Soliloquies , and private Meditations , and Conferences between God & our souls , and between our selves and our souls , have ever been much approved by the Antients . Our Prayer ( saith an antient Father ) ought to be in such manner as Hanna's was : Ephr. Syr. 1 Sam. 1. She wept , and prayed , and her lips only were perceived to move . Let every one hear this , and imitate it ; especially they , who with extream babling , without all modesty , yet with loudness of voice , make their prayers . Let us therefore pray with sighs and groans : But withall taking heed , ( as much as we can , with Gods assistance , and our own endeavours ) that in the time of our prayers , no extravagant thought steal upon us , lest happily we have one thing in our hearts , and another in our tongues . And to this purpose also speaketh S. Basil , Basil serm. in Martyr . Iulitiam . All our prayers ought to be made , not in syllables , but in the hearty affection of the soul. For how do , or can we think , that God will give us that for which we pray , when by our behaviour and gesture , our faint and weak sollicitation , we seem to him , that either we do not want what we pray for , or , that he will upon every slight and cold motion , be perswaded to give us what we desire ? Or how can we expect to be heard of God , when we our selves ( not being serious in our devotions , but diverted with other phantasies ) hear not , nor know what we do petition for ? The wise man therefore , giveth us good and wholsom counsel in this matter , Ecclus. 18 23. Before thou prayest , prepare thy self , and be not as one that tempteth the Lord .

Our prayers therefore must not proceed from the lips only ; for no man can assure himself that God heareth his prayers , who is so careless , and his thoughts so wandring , that he knoweth not himself what he prayeth for .

Of the Time and Place for PRAYER .

The time . TAke a little taste of the Time when , and the Place where our Prayers are to be offered up to GOD.

1 Th. 5.17 . For the Time in general , the Places before-named , Col. 4. 3. do , and may direct us . Eph. 6.18 . Pray without ceasing . Continue in Prayer . Lu. 11.18 . And pray alwayes . More particularly , Nu. 28. 3. Twice a day ( that is , Morning & Evening ) the Sacrifices were to be made . Ps. 55 , 18. David prayed thrice , In the Evening , Morning , and at Noon-day : 119.164 . And seven times in a day . Daniel prayed thrice . Dan. 6.10 In the morning before day Christ prayed . Mar. 1.35 . David prayed early . Ps. 63. 1. Act. 2. 15. The Apostles at the third hour of the day . 10. 9. 3. 1. At the sixth hour . The ninth hour . And David at midnight . Ps. 119.62

For the Place , The place . In all places saith God . Ex. 20.24 . Every where , saith S. Paul . 1 Tim. 2.8 . Christ prayed in the Desert . Mar. 1.35 . On a Mountain . Mat. 14. 23. In the Garden . Isaac in the Field . Peter prayed on the House-top , or Tarris . Mat. 26. 36. In the Congregation , saith David . Gen. 24. 63. To the Temple went S. Peter , S. Iohn , and S. Paul . And Christ bids us when we would be private in prayer , Act 10. and not be molested , Ps. 111.1 . to go to our Closets . Acts 3. 1. 22. 17. So that it appeareth , Mat. 6. 6. that there is no Time nor Place unseasonable , to offer up our Prayers unto God , as occasion shall be offered , though the chief Place for private Prayer is our Closet , and for publick the Temple , where one may stir up another by example , and where we ought to make publick confession of our Faith , and give publick thanks for Gods benefits .

How to pray aright .

To pray aright . BUt it may come to pass ( 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 do not carefully consider to pray for those things which are fit and requisite for God to give , and for us to receive . For as Saint Iames saith , Jam. 4. 3. Many time : we ask , and receive not , because we ask amiss . For our better instruction therefore , we are to consider , that there be two sorts of Blessings to be required of God : First , Spiritual ; Secondly , Temporal .

Spiritual Blessings . 1. The first part pertains to Gods own honour , and the good of our own souls ; as Faith , Hope , Charity , Thankful Hearts , Remission of Sins , and other of the same kind , which are meerly spiritual and heavenly . And these Blessings we may ( without doubt ) safely and confidently beg at GODS hands , and he will not deny them .

2. The Second , Temporal . are temporal and indifferent ; as Riches , Honour , Health , Peace , Seasonable times , Children , and the like . And these are not to be prayed for , but ( according to Christs pattern of prayer , with thy Will be done ; Mat. 6.10 . or , according to Christs practice ) with a Not as I will , 26. 39. but as thou wilt : Mat. 8. 2. Or with the Leaper in the Gospel , Lord if thou wilt , thou canst make me clean .

Saint Bernard disposeth these into three heads : S. Bern. In serm. 5. quadrag . Two , for blessings of this life , for the body , and soul , and the third , for the life to come : And in praying for these , he giveth three Cautions , with his Reasons : First , That our prayer for Temporal blessings , which the body wanteth , be restrained to things needful ; because many times we pray for things superfluous , to satisfie our pleasures . Secondly , That our petition for the graces of the soul , be free from impurity , because we oftentimes desire to have them for Ostentation . Thirdly , That our request for the blessing of Eternal Life , be in all Humility because many require it at Gods hands , as presuming upon their own merits .

Our Prayers being thus qualified , being preferred only to God , in Faith , Hope , Charity , with God , and our Neighbour , Humility of body and soul , Perseverance , Fervency of Spirit , our souls and bodies attending to what we pray for , and in due Time and Place , praying aright , both for temporal and spiritual blessings , we shall ( no doubt ) by the mercy of God , through the mediation , intercession , and merits of Iesus Christ , obtain ( in his good time ) all things which shall be needful and expedient for us .

Prayer divided into parts .

DEvotions and Prayers , are either publick or private .

1. Private prayers are , whereby every particular Man prayeth to God , for those things which he wanteth . In which kind of devotion , we ought at all times to exercise our selves , 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 be in the night , or morning , mid-day , or evening , at home , or abroad , in the City , or Country , in our beds , or at our work , if we call upon him faithfully , he will hear us .

2. Publick Prayers are , whereby the whole Congregation meet in a place , Dedicated to Gods honour , as well to praise his Name , as to pray for those things which shall be needful . For although Christians ought to pray privately , yet ought they not in the mean time to neglect the publick worship and service of God in the Church . For from the beginning it was held and observed as a duty required ; and therefore , before the erection and dedication of Temples and Churches , the Patriarchs , and holymen , erected Altars in certain places , where at set times of the day , they might offer Sacrifices , and publick Prayer to God . Ex. 29.39 . In the second of Ioel , Joel 2. you shall find a set and prescribed Form of Prayer for the Minister to use , together with the place , and the Congregation that were to assist . In the New Testament also , our Saviour Christ himself ( to encourage this holy duty of publick Prayer ) hath promised his presence amongst those that shall be assembled and gathered together after this manner . Mar. 18 20. Therefore , whosoever shall neglect these publick Assemblies , sheweth and discovereth thereby , how little he regardeth Christs company or presence .

These Prayers are also distinguished into these parts .

1. Invocation . 2. Confession . 3. Thanksgiving .

Invocation consisteth of 1. Petitions for the good of our own Souls in Spiritual things . Bodies in Temporal things . 2. Intercessions , either in praying for the good of others , or against the evil of others . 3. Deprecations against evils , Spiritual . Temporal .

Confession is threesold . 1. Of our Faith . 2. Of the Glory of God . 3. Of our own Sins .

Thanksgiving is either 1. For deliverance from evil . 2. For benefits received .

To these may be added Imprecation , either 1. Against the enemies of God incorrigible and irreconcileable . 2. Against the enemies of our Souls incorrigible and irreconcileable .

So that these Rules be observed , 1. That it be not used for private hate , or revenge . 2. That we rejoyce not in any mans Destruction , 3. That we aim at their Correction .

The use of the Lords Prayer .

BEcause that our Saviour Christ hath taught us how to pray , and hath put the very words ( as it were ) into our mouths , which we should use in praying , I think it necessary to begin with the same , which he hath left unto us .

1. In respect of the Excellency of the Author of it , who was no less than God .

2. In respect of the Perfection of the work it self , ( the Prayer ) 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 prevail and work much with God ; for none knew the mind and disposition of God better than he which composed it , which was God .

And let it not lose any part of the due praise which belongeth to it , in regard of the compendiousness , or shortness of it ; for it deserveth the more honour , because though it be short , yet it is also copious , and plentiful in matter , and therefore the more absolute and perfect .

It is not therefore without cause that the Antients have given so many excellent Attributes to it .

As the Abridgement of the Gospel , and our Faith .

The Interpretation of our Desires and Hopes .

The very Bond of Charity .

And an inexhaustible Treasury .

Yet let not any Man think , that our Saviour prescribed us this Prayer , as that we should use no other , but be tyed to the very words contained in it : but this we must conceive , that he made it to bridle our desires ; that though we make our Petitions , and frame them according to our several necessities ; yet , to keep us in compass , that we exceed not the limits , nor vary from the extent and bounds of this Prayer .

The Use of it is twofold . 1. That we might be instructed by it , what is necessary in general to require of God , and not without need , seeing we ( being naturally blind in spiritual things ) know not what is fit to ask ; and many times we crave those things ( as Zebedees Children did ) which are unworthy both of God , Mat. 20 : 21 and our selves , and might prove hurtful also to us , if they should be granted . And therefore ( under certain general heads ) he hath bounded the desires of the flesh , and taught us after what manner and rule we should square all our Petitions . For whatsoever we shall desire against the directions therein contained , dis-a-greeth from the will of God , and therefore is neither good , holy , nor profitable . 2. That we may be able thereby to conceive , frame , and make all our Prayers according to our several necessities , and after that Petition which sitteth us , as our occasions shall alter .

The Lords Prayer Analysed .

A Father , not a Lord . Our Father

One being a name of love .

The other of dignity .

A Father not a Iudge .

One being , a name of Goodness , Comfortable

O 〈◊〉 , sub quo nomini desperandum .

The ●●her of Power , Terrible .

Who is able to resist his Power ? Ro. 9. 19.

It is too proud a salutation ; Father For how much are we .

By Nature , Dust and Ashes .

By Sin , Bond-slaves to Satan . Ge. 18.27

So much are we below him .

Who then durst be so bold as to call the Father , but that Christ did command it ?

For exceeding great is thy Majesty .

And exceeding great is our Poverty .

Ps. 57.3 . He is exalted above the Heavens , and his glory is above all the Earth .

113. 4. He humbleth himself , when he beholdeth the things in Heaven .

Job . 13.25 And we are but worms , and leaves , driven to and fro with the wind .

Ps. 78.40 . A wind that passeth away , and commeth not again .

Yet we are bold to call thee Father ; for we come not of our selves , thy Son Christ hath taught us the form . Take notice of the words , they are thy Sons .

Father 1. Father of all Creatures .

In their Creation .

Preservation .

Governing .

Gen. 1.26 . 9. 6. 2. Of Mankind , which he formed after his own Image .

Other Creatures are but as a shadow to Man . For he endued him with understanding .

And the Creatures not so .

To him he gave precepts to order his life .

To the Creatures only by blind instinct .

He was Created in the condition of a Son .

The rest , but as bondslaves . Eph. 1.

3. Of Christians , Jam. 1.18 . 1 Pet. 3. 23. more especially by Grace , Regeneration , and Adoption by Iesus Christ , his Son .

A Father , Father but what Father ?

There is no Father like unto thee .

When my Father and Mother forsake me , Ps. 27. 12. then the Lord taketh me up .

Thou art our Father , Esa. 63.16 though Abraham be ignorant of us .

Can a Woman forget the fruit of her womb , &c. Yea , 49. 15. they may forget , yet will I not forget thee .

A most indulgent Father , Lu. 15.18 . Mat. 18. 26. to whom the Prodigal Son arose and went . Whom the insolvent servant besought .

Though thou be a displeased Father , yet a Father thou art . Though I be a wastful and disobedient Son , yet a Son I am . Though I have lost the ingenuity of a Son , yet thou hast not lost the compassion and love of a Father

A Father of Mercies . Father

Whom we find so to be .

By his inciting us to good . 2 Cor. 1.3 .

Confirming us in it . Pardoning our sins . Delivering us from tentations . Reclaiming us from sin . Crowning us with blessings .

1. If then thou be our Father , in are thy Sons .

1 Joh. 3.1 . How great , what manner of Lord hast thou bestowed upon us , that we should be called the Sons of God ?

2. If thou be our Father , and we the Sons of God , how great is the honour , that we are as it were Gods ?

3. If thou be our Father , then are we Brethren to Angels as also to Men. to Saints as also to Mean to Christ as also to men . to Himself as also to Poor men Heb. 2.12 .

And how great ought our love to be ? Let no man therefore extoll himself above his brethren , nor be ashamed to call any man his Brother , whom God hath vouchsafed to call Son .

4. If thou be our Father , how great is our Hope ? what are we to expect from thee ;

Mat 7.11 . Even all things which a Father giveth to his Children .

What are we to render unto thee ?

Even all duty and obedience belonging to Children : that thou mayest not repent thee , nor we be unworthy , either of our Creation , or Adoption .

It is not without some reason from our Saviour , Our 〈◊〉 that the words Mine , or I , are not to be found in this Prayer .

Our , is a word of charity , and unity . It is not My Father , as if God were any mans peculiar , but our Father , the Father of all , as he properly is , through , and in Christ .

Our prayers are most powerful with God , when we express in them a fellow-feeling of the Necessities of our Neighbours , and Sympathize with them in their misery . This is Charity .

Let every one of us therefore be as willing and careful to pray for others , as well , and as heartily as for himself ; considering , that in so doing , he prayeth for him , whom Charity hath made as himself .

Christ bare us , and all our sins in his body . 1 Pet. Let us do the like to one another in word and deed .

For our Selves , Necessity compelleth us to pray , My Father . For our Brethren , Charity inviteth us to pray , Our Father .

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

In Father , the Love of God .

In Our , the Love of our Neighbour .

And in these two words , the sum of the Gospel is contained .

In Father , our Faith .

In Our , our Charity .

Which are in Heaven In these words we have a rule and direction to whom to frame our prayers .

Unto thee shall all flesh come .

Ps. 65.2 . Who have I in Heaven but thee ? saith King David .

He is only able to hear us , and to grant our desires .

It is true , we have Earthly Fathers ; but these leave and forsake us ; Their hands are shortned ; We call not to them , but to thee , which art in Heaven .

Esa. 66.1 . Heaven is thy Throne .

Mat. 5.34 . Ps. 19.1 . The Heavens declare thy Glory .

Not that thou art included in the Heavens only ; 1 Reg. 8. 27. for ( as Solomon said ) The Heaven of Heavens cannot contain thee ; but , as if that were thy Royal Palace , where the Elect shall enjoy thy blessed presence .

Thou art Every where by thy Presence . Jer. 23.23 . Thou art In Heaven by thy Excellence .

Thou art in Earth also . Esa. 66.1

But they which come to thee , must be lifted up higher .

I have lifted up mine eyes . Ps. 121.1 .

Ultra montes expectare .

Sursum Corda .

A word of Hope .

For if thou be our Father and Lord , and King of Heaven , In Heaven then our Hope is , that our Inheritance is there also ; that thou wilt not deny us an Inheritance , that hast vouchsafed us the Title of Sons .

Let us therefore take the wings of the Eagle , and be lifted up in our Meditations to Heaven , being made heirs thereof .

Let us look up to Heaven , while we are upon Earth .

Ps. 25. 1. 121. 1. 123. 1. 131. 1. Unto thee , O Lord , do I lift up my soul.

I will lift up mine eyes to the hills , whence cometh my help .

Out of the deep have I called to thee , O Lord .

A word of Power .

In Heaven For thou art in that place , from whence at all times thou canst send us , Help in danger . Good things in need . Plagues for our offences .

And though thou art a Father by thy Love , yet art thou in Heaven by thy Majesty and Power .

Let us not therefore presume upon too much familiarity with him , as with a Father , but let his word [ in Heaven ] keep us in a submiss Reverence : For though Father and Son be of near Relation , yet a Son of the Earth , and a Father in Heaven , are of great distance .

And let us be respective of his awful Majesty , and make our petitions to him in fear and trembling ; in all Humility and Reverence : And Let us not be rash with our mouths , Eccl. 5.2 . nor our hearts hasty to utter any thing before him : For GOD is in Heaven , Esa. 66.22 and we ( poor Creatures ) upon Earth , which is but his footstool .

This Petition justly challengeth the first place . Hallowed be thy Name .

For , being thus intituled and dignified with the honour of Sons , we ought primarily to consider our duties what we should render back .

And what should a Son desire more than the honour of his Father ?

By this word we understand all the Attributes , Name . by which God hath manifested himself , as his Majesty , Iustice , Power , Truth , Mercy , Goodness , &c.

Blessed be thou our Lord , who hast given this power to men , To Hallow Thy Name , To Magnifie Thy Name , To Glorifie Thy Name , Which in it self is Holy . Ps. 103.2 . 104. 31. 145. 10.

Which all thy works in general do sanctifie .

Which all the unreasonable Creatures do hallow and praise in their kinds . Esa. 43. 9. Ps. 97. 5 , 6

Which all reasonable Creatures , as Angels and Men do glorifie .

Isa. 6.2 , 3. The Angels , and Hosts of Heaven .

Psal. 103. 20 , 21. Men that are in Heaven already ( though Mat. 5. 16. In Earth ) by their works . Ps. 149 1. In the Congregations . Job . 1 , 20. In Afflictions .

Let us therefore glorifie it also ; and that not carelesly or slightly , but zealously and holily , in Thought , Word , and Profession ; For the whole scope of our Actions ought to tend to the Glory of GOD only .

And , Lord , let thy Name be sanctified by others , besides us : Dilate this power of sanctifying thy Name , communicate it more and more to the Gentiles : Make thy Gospel to spread to the end of the Earth : Exo. 9.16 . From the rising of the Sun : to the going down of the same , let thy Name be great among the Gentiles . Thine .

Ps. 115.1 Not unto us , Lord , not unto us , but to thy Name give the glory .

Rev. 4.12 . Thou art worthy , O Lord , ( and thou alone ) to receive honour , and glory .

And His Name ought to be sanctified by us above all things : for all other things are for us , and we for His glory only . Not that God shall get any thing thereby , or that He hath need of our sanctifying : but in regard of the benefit which will accrew to us by it For this honour will be an honour to him that giveth it .

And this praise and glory only , is profitable to the glorifier : It is not so any where , or in any thing else . He that glorifies God , him will God glorifie .

Him that honours me , I will honour , 1 Sa. 2.30 . saith God . 2 Th. 1.12 .

Let thy Name therefore , O Lord , be Hallowed .

And thine only .

Let it be Hollowed , Inwardly . By Word . By Us. Outwardly . By Profession . By all Others .

Let us not only salute thee in word , but imitate thee in deed , that we may be fit to glorifie thee , and be worthy to be called thy Sons .

Give us a filial affection .

The Spirit of Adoption . The Grace of Contrition . Ro. 8. 15.

That we may say from our hearts each one of us , Luc. 15. 18. Father , I have sinned , I 'am no more worthy to be called thy Son . And

This humble Confession is one of the wayes to honour God .

Jos. 7.19 . My Son ( said Iosuah to Achan ) give glory to the Lord God of Israel , and make confession unto him .

And let us also do it by refraining our tongue from irreverent speeches , and leading our lives carefully by the rule of Gods Laws .

So shall we truly hallow his Name . So shall we truly glorifie him , and say ,

Psal. 8. 9. O Lord , our God , how excellent is thy Name in all the world .

We praise thee , we bless thee , we worship thee , we glorifie thy holy Name .

Rev. 4. 8. For thou only art holy , Holy , Holy , Holy , Lord God of Hosts .

Thy Kingdom come . Quaerite primum Regnum Coelorum , Seek ye first the Kingdom of Heaven .

GODS Name is more precious and dear to him than his Kingdom . But after his Name his Kingdom .

In Name , He is alone without us , Sole and Singular .

In his Kingdom , He communicates himself , and what is his , with us .

In his Will , We dedicate our selves wholly to him .

And therefore in respect of Gods bounty to us , this is the chief Petition of our good and happiness . For ,

In it we pray , First , for the comming of Gods Kingdom . That GOD may only rule over us .

Secondly , For the destruction and eversion of the Kingdom of Satan . That he may have no more dominion over us .

The Kingdom of GOD is threefold . First , of Glory . Secondly , of Grace . Thirdly , of Power .

1. Of Glory , ( hereafter ) which indeed should be the scope of our desires : For we ought so to live here , that we may desire ( without fear ) the coming of this Kingdom .

So to be affected at our death , that we may joyfully , and without fear say , Lord , Luc. 2.29 . now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace .

So to be affected in our life , that we may often say , and pray , Phil. 1.23 . When shall I appear before the Lord ?

I desire to be dissolved , and to be with Christ .

Rev. 22. 20. Come Lord Iesus , come quickly .

2. Of Grace , in this life in us , That we be not of their minds , who said , Luc. 19. 14. We will not have this man to reign over us .

But subject us , O Lord , to this Kingdom , that easie yoke of thine , that in all things we may be obedient to thee .

Govern us , and reign in us , that Satan or Sin reign not in our members . If thou be pleased so to rule in us here , we shall reign with thee hereafter .

Cast Satan under our feet .

3. Of Power , for there are many Rulers in this world which oppose thy Kingdom . Arise , O Lord , and take the Rule into thine own hands . Reign thou therefore only over us . Govern us within and without . For as we are vexed inwardly by our selves , with civil warr : and domestick tyranny , so without also , by others .

Let thy Kingdom . come : And that it may come in us , let it come into our Rulers . Make them like to thee in their Government . Let them rule to thee , not to themselves . Let thy Kingdom come within them ; for in thy Kingdom only are proper and fit Laws and Conditions to rule by .

And because , when this Earthly Government is at the best , it is laborious and unperfect , hasten thy Kingdom of Glory , we beseech thee , wherein will be no cause of complaint , but all things will be absolute , and perfect . Ro. 8. 18. For which all the Creatures , together with us , earnestly wait , even with groans .

For all the votes and desires of the Old Testament were pitched upon the first coming of Christ : Esa. 64 1. and all of the New upon the second , Lu. 10.34 . 2. 19. looking for that blessed hope , 2 Tit. 13. and glorious appearing of the great GOD , 2 Tim. 4. 18. and our Saviour Iesus Christ . Re. 22.20 .

Let it come to us , but not upon us . Come .

Certainly come it will , will we , nill we .

Let it come to us , not against us .

Let us feel the happiness of it ( O Father ) in coming , not the violence of it , in rushing upon us . In the mean time , let it come to us here , though not in the full fruition , yet in the certain hope and expectation .

Say unto your souls , I am your salvation . Ps. 35. 3.

It is not , Let us do thy will . Thy will be done .

Nor , Do thou thy will .

But , Thy will be done .

Thy absolute and eternal will which none can oppose .

Which will take effect though all the world resist .

Which will be done , because thou wilt have it done .

Ro. 9. 19. Who hath resisted his will ?

Acts 9. 5. It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks .

Thy revealed will ; holy and saving , which perswadeth us to be humble in Conversation , firm in Faith , just and charitable in Works , true in Words , to love thee with all our hearts , as a loving Father , to fear thee as a revenging God : to prefer nothing before Christ , ( who preferred us before all things ) and the like .

This we may contradict .

Let that be done as much as may be . Let both be done .

Let us shew our obedience to thee here , Ps. 103.20 . as the Angels do in Heaven .

All other Creatures obey thy will . The Sea passeth not its bounds . The Earth alters not its station . And all things else are obedient to thy will , only Man is disobedient to it .

Thy will , and all thy will , Thy will . without contradiction .

Thy will , and all thy will , without exception .

Thy will , Act. 21.14 . and not our will . The Lords will be done . Jam. 4.15 . If the Lord will .

Thy will be done in all things , as well pleasing as displeasing to us .

Let not us argue or dispute what is profitable , what is unprofitable ; what pleasant , what hard to flesh and blood : but what thou wilt , let it be done .

Let our blind and perverse will be led by thy most holy will .

Graft thy will by thy Spirit into ours , as into barren stocks . If our wills be refractory to thine , root out , dissipate ours , and establish thine ; let thy will over-master ours , conform our wills to thine . Turn our Nill into thy Will.

In Earth as in Heaven , In Earth as in Heaven . Hallowed be thy Name . In Earth as in Heaven , Thy Kingdom come . In Earth as in Heaven , Thy Will be done .

Let Heaven be the Pattern and Rule to Earth in all things .

Let us begin to be on Earth , as we would be in Heaven hereafter .

As in Heaven . 1. As by thy blessed Angels .

Oh that we might do thy will , and no less thy will now , than they that hope to be like them hereafter .

Lu. 20.36 . 2. As thy Saints .

Who are Heavenly , even Heaven upon Earth .

3. As the inward Man .

The Spirit which is from Heaven ; that professeth it self delighted in doing thy will : that complaineth that it is hindred from doing it .

Oh that the old Adam made of the Earth had been so ready to do it !

In Earth . In Earth ; in all the Earth : But especially in this part of the Earth where we live . We are Earth , and of the Earth , let thy will be done in us .

As in Heaven . As in Heaven ; not as much , or as well : Nor with equal proportion , but likeness : Nor in as great measure , but with like affectinn , willingly , readily , faithfully .

Let us imitate , though we cannot equal .

We beg thy grace to do thy will , as thy Angels and Saints do it . But because many things hinder us , we say with Saint Augustine , Give us power and ability to do thy commands , and then command us what thou pleasest .

And if our condition in this life will not admit so much , yet Lord accept our desires , which cry to thee , Thy will be done . And if our desires be unperfect also , yet hear our cry in the Prophets words , Psal. 119. Our souls have longed to desire thy Laws , and Commandements alwayes .

Here we may consider , 1. First , Give us this day our daily Bread . The excellent order and method of this Prayer : For what ought a Son before all things , and with more fervency desire , than the Honour of his Father , the Prosperity of his Kingdom , and Obedience to his Will ? 2. And in the next place , what is more proper to Children , than to ask Bread of their Father ? or what more necessary for them ?

And in this Petition we are 1. To depend wholly upon his Providence . 2. To acknowledge him the Giver of it only . 3. Lastly , We are Patiently to expect it from him .

In it we consider also , 1. What he is to give , Bread .

2. What manner of Bread .

Our Bread .

Daily Bread .

3. To whom he is to give it .

To us .

4. When to give it .

To day .

There is in us a double Nature or Substance , which requires two sorts of Bread .

Esa. 55.2 . 1. The Soul hath her viands to be provided . Jer. 15.16 . The Bread of Angels . Ps. 65.4 . The Bread of Heaven , the Word , Heb. 5.13 . 14. the Bread of Life , Christ Iesus in the Flesh.

Jo. 6. 33. 35. 48. Lord give us of this Bread evermore .

Jo. 6. 3,4 . 2. The Body also craveth its sustenance , its Bread , that is , all the necessaries of this life .

Our Belly is a troublesome Clyent , and except it be satisfied likewise , it draweth our minds from thee .

Thou , O Father , hast promised to add all things , Mat. 6.33 . if we first seek thy Kingdom . Behold we have sought it , give us therefore Bread , either fine , middle sort , or course , which of them shall seem good to thee .

And give us that which may feed , and not choak us , either with the care of them , or neglect of Thee . Give us frugal , sober Bread , not dainty fare , Bread necessary , not superfluous : For we are not to take thought for the flesh , Ro. 13.14 . to fulfill the lusts thereof .

In this word Bread , Bread . are contained all things necessary , and conducing to the maintenance and preservation of our lives .

As Breathing it self .

Vescitur aura aetherea .

Sleep , to refresh our weary bodies .

Honest hearts , by which we get our maintenance ,

And a competency of estate , are all particulars of that which is contained in the word Bread .

And with Bread , give us , O Lord , The Staff of Bread . Lu. 26.26 Health of Body . 1 Reg. 19. 8. Wholesome Air. Psal. 6.2 , 91. 16. Content of Mind . Convenient Dwelling . Pro. 15. Peace in our Dayes , and the like .

Our Bread . Ours , as proper to Children , by a double right , of Prayer , Labour .

Yet so ours , as first Thine , Thine by gift , because thou wilt , not because thou art our Debtor .

Ours for use . For neither Thou , nor thy Angels , need this Bread : But we , being of corporeal substance , need corporeal sustenance .

We , being Travellers , need our Viands .

Bread . For our necessity , not for superfluity ; which may profit the soul , not hurt the body ; which may nourish the soul , not destroy the body .

Gen. 28. 20. If the LORD will be with me , and will keep me in the way that I shall go , Ps. 30. 7 , 8 , 9. and will give me Bread to eat , and Rayment to put on , so that I return in peace , then the Lord shall be my God .

Pro. 30. 7 , 8 , 9. Two things have I required of thee , deny me not them before I dye ; Remove far from me vanity and lies ; Give me neither poverty , nor riches ; feed me with food convenient for me : Lest I be full , and deny thee , and say , who is the Lord ? Or lest I be poor , and steal , and take the Name of my God in vain .

When we say Ours , Our . we speak not as if it were due to us , but of thy bounty given to us , and gotten and acquired by our labour , according to thine institution . Ours by labour .

For if we be droans , if unprofitable burthens to the Earth , it is not ours , it belongs to others .

If it be gotten by fraud , violence , or constraint , it is not ours .

It is surreptitious . Pro. 20.17 And that Bread is full of gravel .

Let us therefore follow our vocations , and not make thee associate in our sin , by requiring Bread , being our selves idle and sloathful , or fraudulent and deceitful .

So ours , Ours . as if we have more than we need , and any thing remain more than is necessary for our estate and condition , we impart and communicate it to those which want .

And if we shall with-hold that which is superfluous from the poor and needy , we shall be thieves of that which is our own .

It is therefore ours , so , that it may be other mens , by and through our hands .

Give . Give it thou . Bless thou the labours of our hands : for there are which labour , and yet want . But when it comes of thy gift , a blessing come with it ; and without thy providence our labours are in vain , the rather , because we are too prone to sacrifice to our own nets , Hab. 1. 16. and ascribe the enjoying it to our own labours .

Therefore open thou thy Barnes , open thou thy Treasury : For when thou openest thy hand , every thing is filled with thy good . Ps. 104.28

Give . Except thou give it , we shall have no benefit by it ; it will nourish no more than a stone .

Give it thou , for on thee we depend , to day , and to morrow , and all our life .

Give it thou , not retribute , or pay .

It is no Debt .

Bread , and all other thy blessings are Donatives .

Give . Give it Thou . Break it thou , and give it , let not us take it our selves . For if thou give it , thou wilt give it in time , place , and measure : whereas if we take it , we shall observe none of these rules , but take it to the destruction of our own souls and bodies .

The Petitions run along still with the rule of Charity . Give us . For when we say , give us , we speak not thus , To me , and my family . This word [ us ] is more general : as well to our Brethren , the Sons of the same Father , who want Bread , as to me , and my family .

That is , This day of our life , This day . This time .

Heb. 3. We are not to petition for an Age , being but of a day , and a particle of a day .

For being uncertain of our dayes , why should we beg bread for uncertain times ? For we are not assured of life for an age , a year , or a day . Our life is but a day , and a day is the resemblance of our life : Yet , Providence is not hereby forbidden , or that none should lay up with Ioseph , or the Ant: Gen. 41. But he that provides not before-hand , Pro. 6. 6. is more foolish than an Ant , 1 Tim. 5.8 . nay worse than an Infidel .

We must gather up the fragments : Jo. 16 . 1● . and the things we gather , provide , and lay up , must be justly gotten . We must not put our confidence in them , and we must bestow , aud use them well .

And forgive us our Trespasses . Give us , O Lord , Bread convenient and meet , to serve us to day , and to morrow also .

Esa. 27.9 . This is all the fruit , to take away sin .

This Petition tacitely implies an acknowledgement that we are sinners .

And indeed we are all sinners . 1 Jo. 1.8 . If we say we have no sin , we deceive our selves and the truth is not in us .

And therefore it is most expedient to ask forgiveness .

For although God by his Omniscience is not ignorant of our sins , yet it shews well in us , to ask forgiveness for them .

This benefit accrues by confessing them , that God is prone to absolve us .

1 Jo. 1. 9. If we confess our sins , God is faithful and just to forgive them .

And this detriment befalls if we continue in them without attonement , that they make a separation between God and us .

Esa. 39.2 . Our iniquities have separated between us our God : and our sins have hid his face from us , that he will not hear us .

We have great need to beg forgiveness for them , Jer. 5. 25. for Our iniquities have withholden good things from us .

And why ? Lam. 3.44 God hath set our sins as a cloud , that our prayers ( for good things ) might not pass through .

And we know ( saith Saint Iohn ) that God heareth not sinners , Jo. 9. 31. that are not reconciled to him by confession .

As long as our sins stand up against us , and are not remitted , we cannot hope to receive any good at Gods hands .

Therefore , O Lord , not only give , but forgive also , both the guilt and punishment of them .

And in this thy Mercy is manifested , that thou givest to those , who after they have received , must ask forgiveness .

Give unto us who are thine enemies , and when thou hast given , forgive us also .

Forgive us , Forgive . for we confess we need forgiveness : And we have thy promises , and practice of remission , to those which confess their sins .

1. He that covereth his sins , Ps. 28.13 . shall not prosper : but whosoever confesseth , and forsaketh them , shall have mercy .

Lev. 5. 5. And it shall be , when he shall be guilty in any one of these things , that he shall confess that he hath sinned in that thing , &c. And the Priest shall make an attonement , &c.

36. 40. If they shall confess the iniquity of their Fathers , with their trespasses which they have trespassed against me , 42. &c. Then will I remember my Covenant , 1 Jo. 1. 9. &c. If we confess our sins , he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins .

2. Thy practice is seen in divers examples .

Ps. 32. 5 Of David , by his own confession : I said I will confess my sins unto the Lord , and so thou forgavest the wickedness of my sin .

By the mouth of Nathan . David said unto Nathan , I have sinned against the Lord . 2 Sam. 12. 13. And Nathan said unto David , The Lord also hath put away thy sin .

Lu. 15.21 . Of the Prodigal Son .

18. 10. Of the Publican .

7. 48. Of Mary Magdalen , and divers others .

Yet thou hast not dealt so with the Angels that fell : Jude 6. Their sins are not , will not be forgiven : Ours may in thy good pleasure .

We are unworthy .

Let us not be unthankful .

They be Debts which we owe , Our Trespasses , or Debts . and pay not , but detain against the will of the Owner .

We are Debtors to thy Commandements , being thy Creatures , and created to the keeping of them .

As often then as we omit , and have undone those things which thou commandest us to do , and commit those things which thou forbiddest , we detain a Debt , and become Debtors or Trespassers .

We see then that all men are sinners and debtors . And forgive .

That there are sins which deprive us not from the Sonship of God .

That there is place and time for remission after Baptism .

Now of our sins , some are committed Ignorantly , others Of knowledge . Unwillinlgy , others Willingly and greedily . Before our calling , others Being called . Against God , others Against our Neighbours and our selves . In heart , others In word and deed . By our selves alone , others With others either as authors or provokers . Of Commission , others Of Omission . Secretly , others Of which our heart reproveth us

And in all these is the root of bitterness . Deut. 29. 18. Forgive them , O Lord , retain not the offence : exact not the puunishment due for them . Heb. 12. 15. Be reconciled to us , by laying aside thy just displeasure by receiving us to thy favour and grace .

Connive at them while they are doing .

Bring them not into question , call them not into examination , nor us to account for them being done .

And the hand writing that is against us ,

Tear it .

Hang it upon thy Sons Cross.

Cast it behind thee .

Drown it in the Sea .

And as the morning Cloud , make it to vanish away , and come to nothing .

Forgive them , because he that taught us thus to pray , ( our Surety ) hath paid , and discharged these Debts .

Not only my trespasses , Forgive us but the offences of my brethren .

There is in this Petition a brotherly Charity also ; Ro. 15.30 and as Christ transferred our sins upon himself , so charity takes our brothers sins to us , and makes us pray for them .

And it is but Iustice also , to pray for the sins of others , in regard many offences are committed by them by our perswasion or example .

Not only my trespasses , Forgive us but the offences of mine enemies . Act. 7.66 . As thou forgivest us , 2 Tim. 4. 16. so forgive our enemies also . And this is the highest pitch of charity .

As we forgive , &c. Forgive , and it shall be forgiven to you , was thy Sons promise . Blessed be thy name for propounding so easie a condition to us .

To forgive a mite , and be forgiven a talent .

Oh happy exchange , to receive gold for dross ! a pearl for stubble !

Oh happy necessity , imposed on us thus to pray ! For a malevolent mind can neither be lifted to God , nor quietly and peaceably conversant with men . And while he makes us like himself by this condition , that is slow to wrath , and ready to forgive , he makes us also acceptable to himself , and substitutes us as it were in his own place , gives us power to forgive offences .

Blessed therefore be Thou , O Lord , for dealing thus mercifully and wonderfully with us , in teaching us daily to pray thus , and daily to forgive , and to be forgiven . And that dost bind us by this condition of mutual forgiveness . For he that forgiveth not , prayeth against himself , and in effect thus prayeth , Lord forgive not me , for I do not forgive .

If we perform not what we say we do , we shall never be forgiven . And it is but due on our parts to forgive others . For God hath already forgiven us for Christs sake : we promise then no more than we owe to him already .

Grant us therefore grace , O Lord , to follow thy example , fully and freely to forgive the offence , and not to retain the punishment , or any malice to those , whom we seem to forgive .

We petition well and rightly , let us do it effectually henceforth . That thou mayest not have cause to say , Ex ore tuo te judico . Thou hast not , nor shalt be forgiven .

When we say [ as we ] we promise not a pari , As we but a simili ; not so much in quantity , but the like in quality . For we ( God help us miserable sinners ) forgive imperfectly , but God freely and absolutely .

Neither do we say it , O Lord , as challenging , or meriting any forgiveness by our forgiving , but to shew our conformity to Thee in forgiving . We cannot better discover our selves to be thy Disciples , or Children , than by being pittiful , and ready to forgive and pass by offences .

And lead us not into Tentation . There are two sorts of Tentation , 1. Of Tryal . 2. Of Deceit , or Seducing .

1. That of Tryal is , when God doth any thing to prove the constancy and affection of his servants , and this is good . Gen. 22.1 . As were the tryals of Abraham , Iob , Job 1. and his People . Ex. 15.25.16.4 . 10. 20. 2. That of Seducing , is , when we are tempted by the Devil , his Ministers , or our own Flesh , Deut. 8.2 . 16. 23. 3. to forsake God , and his Commandements ; and this Tentation we pray against . For what benefit shall we reap by forgiving our old sins , if we contract new ?

O Lord , not only be pleased to pardon that which is past , but prevent and keep us from committing the like . Let us not be encouraged to sin , because of thy bounty in blotting out our former offences : but rather to thankfulness , for thy mercy , and to care , that we offend no more .

Deliver us from that which is past . Subvention . Keep us from that which is to come . Prevention .

Lest we turn with the Dog to the vomit , or the washed Sow to the mire . 2 Pet. 2.22 .

It is enough that we have spent the time past in the works of the flesh . 1 Pet. 4 2.

For the enemy is never readier or nearer to us , Mar. 20. 44. than when the house is swept clean . Therefore the danger being so near us , give us grace , O Lord , to be the more wary of him .

Behold , O Lord , the roaring Lyon , seeking whom he may devour . 1 Pet. 5.8 He is at hand to ensnare us , either with his own malice , the delights of the world , or the pleasures of the flesh . If he cannot prevail by fair means , he endeavours by force to compel us ; If he cannot puff us up with delight , then he attempts to deject us with sorrow , if thou be from us . Wherefore , O Lord , forsake us not , and by forsaking us , lead us into tentation . For of our selves , without Thee , we have no power to resist him , nor hath he , without Thee , any power to tempt us .

Let us not flee to the Enemy , O Lord , being overcome , either by his insulting over us : nor suffer us to descend to conditions of peace with him , to pacifie him with our yielding , hoping thereby to make him more mild , for that will not be .

Let us rather look up to Thee , lest we yield to his violence , or give credit to his craft , presuming either upon our own strength , or destitute of thy help .

Let us perceive his snares by thy light .

Let us resist his assaults by thy strength and power .

Let us neither do evil , or omit that which is good , by being tempted .

Let no Tentation , but such as is common to Man , take hold on us . 1 Cor. 10 33 Let it be as Christs Vanne , winnowing that which is evil from us , and not the Devils Sieve , casting through it that which is good .

Let us come out of Tentation , as purified silver , and not be burnt as dross . Give us a happy issue with our Tentations .

Let it be to the tryal of our Faith , and the confusion of Satan . Lead us not further in , than thou wilt bring us out again . If in thy Iustice thou lead us in , yet in thy Mercy lead us out . Lead us not to leave us .

Thou , O Lord , temptest no Man ; thou leadest none in , Jam 1.13 . but those that first led in themselves , nor hardnest any , but those who first hardned themselves . Leave not , give us not over to Satan , nor our own wills .

Let us not be rebellious , Ecclus. 3. 26. and provoke the Tempter ; nor love danger , lest we perish therein .

It is a dangerous thing to be tempted , for the uncertainty of the victory .

It is Presumption to desire it , but Humility to decline it .

It is joyfully to be endured , but by no means to be desired .

Lead us not , Lead us not . or rather bring us not in , do not necessitate us .

There is difference between tempt , and lead into tentation .

The first is Satans act , the other oft-times is Gods .

GOD led Christ into the Wilderness , but he was tempted by the Devil .

If it be thy pleasure to suffer us to be led in , yet bring us back , as thou didst our Saviour .

Into Tentation . The Tempter often assayles us , O Lord , do not thou deliver us into his power , to be sifted ; but if thou loosest his reins for a time , as thou didst sometimes in Iob's case , yet moderate the combat between us , we pray thee , and either lessen the tentation , as our strength abates ; or increase our strength , as the tentation grows strong , that we may have a joyfull issue from it . For if we neither overcome , nor ( being vanquished ) become more humble and cautious thereby , the tentation will be to our destruction , not to our tryal .

Let it therefore be to our correction , not to our condemnation , we beseech thee .

But deliver us from evil . Not only Lead us not in : that is not sufficient , except thou deliver us also .

If we cannot be free from tentation , yet deliver us from the evil of it . From tentation that is evil .

All things are Evil which divert us from thee ; From evil but especially that evil enemy of thine , and for thy sake our enemy ; for he is not our enemy , in respect of our selves : we are not of such strength , as that he should desire to oppose us ; but he is our enemy , because we are thy Children , and belong to thee . Deliver us , O Lord , from the evil of his bondage .

Let GOD arise , and let his Enemies be scattered . Let not the Enemy be able to do us violence , nor the Son of wickedness hurt us . Ps. 68. 1. 89. 23.

Deliver our Souls , O Lord , From the neithermost Hell . From the power of the Dog . 22. 20. 21. From the Lyons mouth , and the horns of the Unicorns .

Out of the mire , that we sink not : 69. 15. 16. From the deep , and let not the pit shut her mouth upon us .

And deliver us , not only from him , From evil . but from his malice also . From whatsoever poyson he hath breathed on the Creatures . From the enmity of the World .

Take us not from the world , but deliver us from the evil of it . From whatsoever is evil in our flesh .

Deliver us from our selves , as we are evil .

From evil . Deliver us also , as from the evil of sin , so from the evil of punishment . From the evils and miseries of this life .

Especially of the life to come .

Esa. 38.14 O Lord , we are oppressed , undertake for us .

Mat. 8. 25 Lord , carest thou not that we perish .

We are brought into bondage by sin , Captives to Satan , and lyable to thy wrath .

We are not able to match with our enemies by our own strength .

Assist us thou , and deliver us .

Deliver us by thy Son , and we shall be free .

He overcame the Devil , and the World .

He overcame them in himself : Let him overcome them also in us .

He overcame the Devil in himself , by breaking his head , dis-arming him , and diminishing his power .

Let him overcome him in us , by giving us the Armour of the Spirit , and increasing our strength and grace .

Deliver us from the evil of sin , From evil . that it have no dominion over us , à parte ante .

Deliver us from the evil of sin , when it hath prevailed over us , à parte post .

And that presently and speedily , if that it seem good to thee : But if not so soon as we desire , yet let thy deliverance come certainly . Lest the pit shut her mouth upon us .

Deliver us from evil , From evil . especially from that evil , that carries with it a shew of good . When the Enemy pretends to condemn that which is evil , and to approve that which is good .

From the Devil at Noon-day .

From Satan transforming himself into an Angel of light . 2 Cor. 11. 14.

From pleasing Errors .

From sins declining and bending to the right hand : savouring of politique wisdom .

Deliver us , from evil . Deliver us , O Lords

From rebellious hearts .

Hos. 7. 16. From polluted lips .

Esa. 6. 5. Throats like open Sepulchers .

Ps. 5. 10. 144. 11. Tongues talking vanity .

From evil and lustful eyes .

Mat. 7. 22. From uncircumcised ears .

Ps. 58. 4. Deaf like the Adder .

Heb. 12. 2. From hands slow to good .

Ro. 3. 15. From feet swift to evil .

Jer. 3. 3 From a forehead of brass ; and a neck of Iron .

From these , and all other evils , Deliver us , O Lord .

Ps. 60. 11. Lord , be thou our help , for vain is the help of man .

Deliver us so , that we may be freed , not only freed , but free .

So free from sin , that we may be servants to righteousness , and so long servants to righteousness , that at length we may be adopted into Children , heirs and co-heirs with Christ .

Thine is the Kingdom . Thine is the Kingdom .

The Kingdom is the Lords , saith David .

Ps. 22. 18. Two thing are considerable in this Conclusion . 1 Chron. 29. 11.

1. The Confirmation of our Faith , we believe that we are heard of GOD , who is able and willing to give what we desire . 2. The End whereto we ought to refer whatsoever we desire in our prayers , The Praise and Glory of GOD.

Thou art a King , Thine is the Kingdom . and wilt hear thy Subjects . Thou hast right and authority to bear rule ; and free command over thy creatures , the works of thy hands .

By thee Kings rule , Ps. 8. 15. and unto thee must they surrender their Crowns .

All Potentates are but subordinate to thee , thy Vicegerents .

For though God was pleased to stile Nebuchadnezzar King of Kings , Eze. 26.7 as having many petty Kings under him , 1 Tim. 6. 15. yet is he himself , and he only , the King of Kings . Re. 17. 14

For he ruleth over all , Re. 11. 15. as well Kings as others .

The Kingdoms of the world are become the Kingdoms of the Lord . Ps. 10.19

Thou art the great King , Mal. 1. 14 as thou speakest thy self .

Thou removest , Dan. 2. 21 and sertest up Kings .

And thy Kingdom is not temporary or of short continuance , as other Kingdoms are : Ps. 145. 11 Dan. 7. 27 but it is an everlasting Kingdom .

Heb. 1.18 Thy Throne endureth for ever .

Ps. 10. 16. The Lord is King for ever aud ever .

1 Tim. 1. 17 Thou art the King eternal .

Power . Thou hast power and strength to manage this Kingdom . Ro. 9. 19. Thou art mightier than our adversaries .

Who is able to resist thy power ?

This power of thine hath been felt in all ages .

Mic. 7. 18. Who can do like thee , or what God is like thee ?

Ps 66. 7. Thou rulest by thy power for ever .

And this power is proper only to thee . Thou hast spoken it , and David hath heard it more than once , that power belongeth to God . 62. 11.

And that no small power neither .

147. 5. Great is our Lord , and of great power .

Saint Paul calls it , the exceeding greatness of his power . Eph. 1. 19.

His mighty power .

Exo. 15 6. Moses in his Song calls it , glorious power .

Col. 1. 11 2 Th. 1.9 . So Saint Paul .

Therefore thou , and thou only canst give us what we ask .

Great is the glory of the Lord . And Glory .

Glory and honour is in his presence . Ps. 138.5 .

He hath set his glory above the Earth and Heavens also . 1 Chron. 16. 27.

He is rich in glory . Psal. 8. 1. 113. 4. 148. 13.

He is the only King of glory .

And therefore thou expectest of us , Ro. 9.23 . Ps. 24. 10. Mat. 2. 2 that we should give glory to thee . And , O Lord , our intent is to glorifie thee .

We ask these things , as meaning and intending to use them to thy glory , and say with the Angels , and Quire of Heaven , Luc. 2.14 Glory be to God in the highest . And with all the Creatures in Heaven , and Earth , and under the Earth , and such as are in the Sea .

Blessing , honour , and glory , and power , be to him that sitteth on the Throne . Rev. 5.13

And this Kingdom , Power , For ever and ever . and Glory , endureth not for a season only , but for ever : there shall be no end of it .

Thy Kingdom is everlasting , Ps. 10. 16. saith David .

Rev. 7.12 . Thy Power everlastiug , say , and pray the Angels .

5. 13. Thy glory is ever also .

Let us therefore say with those Heavenly people , 19. 1. Allelujah , Salvation , and Glory , and Honour , and Power , unto the Lord our God .

Amen . Behold , O Father , we have ( according to thy Sons directions and form ) presumed to crave those things which we want .

We have made our necessities known to thee .

We stedfastly believe that thou art able to supply our wants .

We desire of thee , that thou wouldst grant us those things which we have craved of thee .

We look up to thee , we sigh and groan , and pray thee to confirm our votes and wishes with thy Seal , Amen , So be it .

Rev. 1. 5. Grant us our Petitions for his sake , that sent us to thee , and that is a true and faithful witness , 2 Cor. 1. 20. and in whom all thy Promises are Yea , and Amen .

Honour him in us , who deserve of our selves ( without him ) no good , but much evil at thy hands . And say to our Petitions , Amen , So be it .

O Almighty LORD , Our Father which art in Heaven . and our Heavenly Father , whose fatherly power and goodness is seen in the Creation , Preservation , and Governing of all things , and upon whom , as a Father , we wait and depend for all that is good : who art in all places by thy presence , but especially in Heaven by thy Excellency ; We thy poor Children , whom thou hast preferred before the rest of thy Creatures , Psal. 8. do , from the bottom of our hearts , wish and desire , that thy Name may be Hallowed , glorified , and magnified , Hallowed be thy Name . from the rising of the Sun , to the going down thereof , even through all parts of the World : And that it may the better spread from one Nation to another , Eph. 1.4 . give us grace ( who have received the Adoption of Children ) so to walk before thee in holiness and righteousness , that the Heathen , who have not known thy Name , Mat. 5. 16. seeing our good works , may glorifie thy Name , Thy Kingdom come . together with us . Thou seest , O Lord , that we have many Tyrants amongst us in this life ; as the Devil malicious and cruel ; the World vain and curious ; the Flesh frail and deceitful ; and our own Will vile and corrupt ; all which do impetuously tyrannize over us , and oppose themselves against thy Kingdom . Arise , therefore , O Lord , and suppress these Tyrants , and rule over thine and our Enemies by thy power , and in us by thy grace , that we may hereafter be Subjects in thy Kingdom of Glory . Thy will be done in Earth , as it is in Heaven . Let thy Kingdom come , and govern us by thy Providence , defend us by thy Might , lead us by thy Spirit , and teach us by thy Word , Drive far from us the Prince of this World , and do thou only Rule in us . Give us grace to follow the example of thy blessed Angels , and all other thy Creatures , who readily and joyfully do thy will . Let our wills follow thine in all things , and let nothing be displeasing to us , which thy Will hath decreed , either for our prosperity or adversity . Let us do nothing contrary to thy Will , but let the performance and execution of thy Will , be the whole scope and aim of our thoughts , words , and actions . And to this end , give unto us thy holy Spirit , which may direct our wills , enlighten our understandings , mollifie our hearts , and make them obedient to thy Will. We further cry unto thee , Give us this day our daily Bread . O Lord , ( who givest food to every living creature , and feedest the young Ravens that call upon thee ) and pray thee , that thou wouldst likewise give unto us this day our daily Bread . First , and above all , the Bread of Life , which may nourish us spiritually : and after that , Bread for our bodies , to sustain Nature . Give us , we beseech thee , all things necessary ( not superfluous ) for this life : and grant that we , using thy blessings as becometh us , may be strengthned and enabled to pass this life quietly and soberly , and at the end of these our dayes , by the merits and intercession of our Saviour Iesus Christ , obtain life eternal . And for as much , And forgive us our trespasses , as we forgive them that trespass against us . O Lord , as we know thou hearest not unrepentant sinners , and that our sins have ( long since ) prevented our prayers , and ascended into thy preiuce , to stop the current of thy mercies , and to call for vengeauce against us : O Lord , behold , that we earnestly repent us of them , and are heartly sorrowful for them . Wherefore we humbly pray thee , for thy great mercies to mankind , in thy Son Christ Iesus , that thou wouldst be pleased to be reconciled unto us , and to forgive us our Trespasses . Psal. 130. Enter not into Iudgement with us , for if thou do , no man is able to abide the mildness of thy Iustice , much less the severity of it . Give us also grace to follow the example of our blessed Saviour , who forgave his Enemies , and prayed for them , that we may forgive them that trespass against us : Lest , when thou comest to Judgement , thou dealest as severely with us , as thou didst with him , Mat. 18. who had much forgiven , and would not forgive a little . Thou knowest , And lead us not into Temptation . O Father , how unapt we are of our selves to think a good thought , much less to resist so great Enemies , as are hourly ready to assail us . Suffer us not therefore to be tempted above our abilities ; neither ( by forsaking us , or with-drawing thy hand of protection from us ) Lead thou us into Tentation : but , Lord , so strengthen us , that ( although it be not good for us , to be altogether free from Tentation , yet ) by thy aid and grace , we may have a happy issue , and joyful deliverance from it : And as we have humbly prayed thee , not to lead us in : So we further desire thee to deliver us out of all evil . But deliver us from evil . For as long as we remain in this flesh , we shall have contiuual strivings and wrestlings with divers evils , but especially with the evil Spirit , the Enemy of Mankind , who omitteth no opportunity to bring us into his bondage . But we are comforted , O Lord , with the assurance of thy mercy , which can effect and work more to our salvation , than his Malice to our destruction . Grant therefore , O Lord , that we may be delivered from all evil , and from all our Enemies spiritual and temporal , that so , Luc. 1.15 . we may serve thee ever hereafter , in holiness , and righteousness , all the dayes of our life .

All these Blessings we have been the more confident to beg of thee , For thine is the Kingdom , the Power . O Lord , because we know assuredly that thou art King of Kings , none hath absolute power within thy Dominions but thy self , and that thou hast power also without resistance , to maintain thy right , and defend thy Subjects , being able to give those things which are necessary for those who call upon thee faithfully .

And we lastly pray thee , And Glory . that seeing it will be for thy glory , to grant those things which we have desired that with the bestowing of them , thou wilt also give us thy grace , that we may use and employ them to that end for which thou gavest them , even thy Honour and Glory . That so being thy true servants here , For ever and ever . we may be glorified with thee hereafter , who art Lord of all glory to all Eternity .

Having thus discovered and laid open our necessities to thee , O Lord in that form and manner which thy Son directed us , we humbly pray thee , Amen . to say Amen to all our Petitions . In his Name , and for his merits sake , we pray thee , to grant them . For though we have no deserts to challenge them , yet his merits are numberless , by which we plead for them . And with this Sacrifice and Oblation , we are bold to come unto thee , not only craving pardon for our sins , but supply of our necessities . We come not to thee of our selves , presuming of any thing in us ; but we are sent by thy Son Iesus Christ , who hath commanded us , with confidence to press unto thy Throne , and in his Name to ask whatsoever we shall need , either for this life , or the life to come . And as he hath sent us , so hath he also put into our mouths , words meet for our request . O Lord , take notice of the stile , it is his own , and for his sake , say to what we have required , Amen . So be it .

And thou , O blessed Saviour , God and Man , intercede ( we beseech thee ) for us : for thou only art our Advocate , Mediator , and Intercessor to the Father . Cover our imperfections and nakedness , with the robes of thy righteousness , and supply our poverty with the riches of thy merits : and cast nor those from thy favour and grace , whom by Nature , thou of thy goodness , hast vouchsafed to make thy Brethren . Who livest and reignest , with the Father , and Holy Spirit , now , and for ever , Amen .

Petitions for Spiritual Graces .

OH that my wayes were directed to keep thy Statutes , O LORD . Ps. 119 51

Blessed is the man whom thou teachest out of thy Law . 94. 12.

119. 18. Open mine eyes , that I may see the wonderous things of thy Law .

Teach me to do thy will , for thou and my GOD , let thy good Spirit lead me into the Land of Righteousness .

Give me Grace , O LORD ,

Rom. 7.18 To know , that in me , ( that is , in my flesh ) dwelleth no good thing .

To abstain from fleshly lusts , which fight against the Soul .

To keep in mind alwayes , Thou the World passeth away , and the desire thereof ; And that the benefit which a Man getteth by the World , is nothing but Destruction .

Truly to say , Ps. 119.52 I have remembred thy everlasting Iudgements , and my Son receiveth comfort thereby .

1 Pet. 5.5 . O thou that givest Grace to the humble , give me Grace to be humble .

Give me a good heart , Luc. 8.15 . which hearing thy Word , may keep it , and bring forth fruit with patience .

Gen. 6. 8. O Lord , Let me find Grace in this eyes .

Heb. 12. 17. Let me find a place and time of Repentance .

2 Cor. 6.1 . Let me not receive thy Grace in vain .

Heb. 12. 15. Let me not fail , or fall from it .

But let me continue in it . Act. 13.43

And let me grow in it . 2 Pet. 3.18

To the end of my dayes .

Give me , O Lord , the works of Repentance Carefulness , Give me , O Lord , the works of Repentance Defence , or clearing my self , Give me , O Lord , the works of Repentance Indignation , Give me , O Lord , the works of Repentance Fear , Give me , O Lord , the works of Repentance Vehement Desire , Give me , O Lord , the works of Repentance Zeal , Give me , O Lord , the works of Repentance Revenge .

Give me Grace to think upon and do Whatsoever things are True , Give me Grace to think upon and do Venerable , 2 Cor. 7. 11. Give me Grace to think upon and do Honest , Give me Grace to think upon and do Iust , Give me Grace to think upon and do Pure , Give me Grace to think upon and do Lovely , Give me Grace to think upon and do Of Good Report . Give unto me , O LORD , Humility of Heart , Give unto me , O LORD , Charity to my neighbour Give unto me , O LORD , Patience of Mind , Give unto me , O LORD , Temperance of Life , Give unto me , O LORD , Chastity of Body , Give unto me , O LORD , Contentedness of Mind , Give unto me , O LORD , Alacrity of Spirit . Give unto me , good Lord , Perfect knowledge of my Sins , Give unto me , good Lord , Hearty sorrow for them , Give unto me , good Lord , Perfect hatred against them , Give unto me , good Lord , Fervent love to all Goodness , Give unto me , good Lord , True obedience to thy Will. 2 Pet. 1.5 . Give me Grace , O Lord , to adde To Faith , Vertue . Give me Grace , O Lord , to adde To Vertue , Knowledge . Give me Grace , O Lord , to adde To Knowledge , Temperance . Give me Grace , O Lord , to adde To Temperance , Patience . Give me Grace , O Lord , to adde To Patience , Godliness . Give me Grace , O Lord , to adde To Godliness , Brotherly Kindness . Give me Grace , O Lord , to adde To Brotherly Kindness , Charity . Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Love , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Ioy , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Peace , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Long Suffering , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Gentleness , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Goodness , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Faith , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spririt , Meckness , Give unto me , O Lord , The Fruits of the Spirit , Temperance . Give unto me , good Lord , Contempt of the World . Give unto me , good Lord , Hatred of Sin . Give unto me , good Lord , Loathing of the flesh . Give unto me , good Lord , Desire of Heaven . Give unto me , ô Lord , A right Faith to live well . Give unto me , ô Lord , A sure Hope to persevere well . Give unto me , ô Lord , A perfect Humility to obey well . Give unto me , ô Lord , A true Charity never to be divided from thee .

Give me grace , O Lord , to be content with that which is necessary .

To despise that wich is superflous .

Grant , O Lord ,

That I may so live , that I repent not to have lived .

That I may so live , that no man may know I have lived amiss .

That I may so live , that I may alwayes live .

That dying I may live , and living I may dye , Luc. 2.21 . and say with a chearful Spirit , Lord , now leitest thou thy servant depart in peace .

Phil. 1.23 . I desire to be dissolved , and to be with Christ .

Amen .

Prayers for Spiritual Graces .

O Blessed Lord Jesus Christ , who art my only Tutor and Instructer ; and from whom I have learned whatsoever I know ; I beseech thee , that thou wouldst further teach me those things , whereof I am ignorant , and which are necessary for my Salvation ; that thou wouldst keep me in things which I have already learned , and rectifie me in those matters , wherein ( as a man ) I erre : Strengthen me , and make me firm , wherein soever I waver , and am doubtful ; and keep me from that which is erronious and hurtful . Above all things , O Saviour , strengthen my Faith , and give me grace daily to prosit in the knowledge and understanding of thy Holy Word , and so govern all my actions by thy Holy Spirit , that my life may be answerable to my knowledge ; and that I may shew the fruits of whatsoever I have learned , by my good and religious conversation . Give me a firm and assured hope in thee , and thy gracious promises , that in all my troubles and necessities , I may be evermore confident in thy mercy . Be unto me a strong Tower of defence , against mine Enemies ; that whether the World allure me , the Devil assail me , or the Flesh rebel , I may fly unto thee for refuge . And although thou presently put not forth thy hand to help me , but defer thy comfort , according to thy good pleasure ; yet keep me from doubting or despairing of thy aid , Ro. 4.16 . because thy promises are sure . 2 Cor. 1. 10. Give me a fervent Love , and perfect Charity to my Neighbour ; that I may be as kind to him , and as careful of him , as of one who is a Member with me , of the same Body , whereof thou ( O sweet Saviour ) art the Head . Let my love to him be sincere and unfeigned , which may charitably relieve him in his wants , patiently bear with his infirmities ; and willingly forgive him all his trespasses against me . Create in me , I beseech thee , a pure , mild , peaceable , and humble heart , which may think harm to no man , nor recompense evil for evil , but good for injuries . Cleanse me from all unclean and earthly desires , and lift up my heart to thee , and Heavenly things : and so write thy Laws in it , that I may wholly bend my self to keep them , and please thee , persevering in the same to my lives end . Give me , O Lord , true compunction of heart , and so water it with the dew of thy Heavenly Grace , that I may , in the bitterness of my Soul , with abundance of tears , sighs , and groans , bewail and lament all my hainous and grievous transgressions against thee . Give me grace , O Lord , that I may not boast in any merits , or works of mine own , or have any confidence in them : but let me glory in this alone , that I am a Member of that Body of thine which was crucified for me , and did sufficiently satisfie for all the Sins of the World . If thou , O Lord , look , or expect any merits from me , behold I tender unto thee thine own merits , the merits of thy Death and Passion , which thou hast vouchsafed to make me partaker of ; by vertue whereof alone , I dare boldly appear before thy Tribunal . These merits I set between my sins , and thy Iustice , and otherwise , or in any other manner , I dare not , I will not contend with thee . O sweet Iesu , I desire thee to offer them to the Father , as a propitiatory Sacrifice , for all my great and grievous Offences ; that when my Soul shall depart from this Body , it may by the same be freed and delivered from all the judgements and punishments which are due unto it for sin , and be carried to that blessed place , where there is no sorrow , but endless felicity , where thou , together with the Father , and the blessed Spirit , livest and reignest for ever .

Before Prayer .

O Almighty and everliving GOD , Heavenly Father , to whom it is manifestly known , how inconstant , and wandring , the minds of men are , in any good actions , and how easily we suffer our selves to be carried away , from the contemplation of thee , by diversity of distractions , and unseasonable thoughts , which take hold of us , in the time of our Devotions and Prayers unto thee ; who also , by thine only begotten Son Christ Iesus , didst prescribe unto his Disciples a Form of Prayer to be offered up to thee , Mat. 6. 9. and hast derived the same from them to us . Behold me , most wretched sinner , wholly depraved and corrupt , intreating thee by the same Son , that for his sake thou wouldst infuse thy Holy Spirit into me , Eph. 1. 5. which may adopt me into the number of thine Elect : that it may teach me how I ought to pray , according to thy Holy Will ; that it may allay all troublesome and wandring thoughts in me , while I offer up my prayers and praises unto thee : Suffer me not to serve thee with my lips , and be absent in heart from thee : but create a right Spirit within me , that I being sensible of all thy graces and comforts , may with joyful and holy zeal , perform my duty to thee : that so , my prayers and desires may appear before thee , and in thy Sons Name , I may effectually be heard , and my petitions may be granted , to the glory and honour of thy most holy Name , and the endless comfort of mine own Soul , through the same our only Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ .

Before a Sermon .

O Most loving SAVIOUR , I most humbly intreat thee , that thou wouldst be pleased , at this time , to enlighten my understanding , and to open my inward ears , with the grace of thy Holy Spirit , that I may hear that sacred Word , with an humble heart , and rejoyce in it , in the obedience of the Spirit : That I may be fully instructed thereby , how to do good , and avoid evil ; and bring forth the fruit thereof in my life and conversation : That thy Honour and Glory may be thereby increased , the Devil and all other the Enemies of my Soul , may be vanquished , my Soul may be saved ; and at the last , I may appear with boldness before thy Tribunal , and receive the reward of a good and faithful servant , even his Masters joy , Mat. 25.25 . everlasting blessedness ; and that , by thy merits only , O blessed Saviour .

Petitions for Temporal Blessings , in which we are to desire of God ,

THat he would be pleased to continue unto us ,

The blessing of a good King , just and religious .

To give unto us ,

Magistrates and Iustices , upright and careful to see good Laws duly executed .

Teachers , to direct us in the Truth .

That he would bless us with Length and Goodness of Dayes . Health of Body . Contentedness of Mind . Competency of Estate . Food and Rayment . Conveniency of Dwelling . Wholesomeness of Air. Fruitfulness of Cartel . Fruitfulness of Soyl.

That he would make us happy In Wedlock , In Children , In Faithful Friends , In Peaceable & loving Neighbours In Honest Servants , In Skilful Physicians .

That he would preserve our Goods , Good Name , Our Senses and Understanding .

That he would protect us , From Trouble , From Enemies , From Dangers , From Losses , From Sicknesses .

That he would give Peace To all Nations , Peace To our Land , Peace In our private Dwellings

Rules to be observed in the Morning .

WHen thou awakest in the Morning , shut and close up the entrance to thy heart , from all unclean , prophane , and evil thoughts , and let the consideration of God , and goodness enter in .

When thou art risen , and art ready , retire thy self to thy Closet , or other private place , and offer to God the first fruits of the Day ; and in praying to him , and praising him , remember , 1. To give him Thanks , for thy quiet rest received , for delivering thee from all dangers , ghostly and bodily , and for all other his benefits to thee . 2. Offer unto him thy self , and all things that thou dost possess ; and desire him , to dispose of thee and them according to his good pleasure . 3. Crave his Grace to guide thee , and to strengthen thee from , and against all Tentations , that so thou mayest do nothing the day following contrary to his will . 4. And Lastly , Beg of him , ( according to the Rules before prescribed ) all things needful for the Soul and Body .

To which purpose pray as followeth .

Morning Prayer .

I Thank thee , O Heavenly Father , Lord of Heaven and Earth , for all thy Blessings , which I ( underservedly ) have received from thee ; that thou gavest a being from honest Parents , and in that part of the World , where thy Son Christ Iesus is purely professed ; that thou didst endue me with Reason and Understanding , and didst also give me perfect Members and Senses : that thou hast preserved me ever since my birth , vouchsafed me health and liberty , and a competency of means , to maintain me , and those whom thou hast placed under me : That thou hast Elected me in thy Love , Redeemed me by thy Son , Sanctified me by thy Spirit , and kept me this night past from all perils of Body and Soul , and given me a sweet and comfortable rest . O Lord , I commend into thy hands my Soul and Body , thoughts , words , and actions , and humbly beseech thee , that thou wouldst guide and order them all to thy honour and glory , and my endless and eternal happiness . Enlighten my mind , that ( the darkness and cloudy mists of mine offences being dispelled ) I may walk before thee , in my vocation , Rom. 13. 13. without offence , as in the day , clean , unspotted , and unblameable . Give unto me thy Holy Spirit , which may bridle my vain cogitations , and head-strong desires ; and order thou ( I beseech thee ) my words , and rectifie all my actions . O Lord , as thou hast of thy bounty raised up my Body from sleep , so stir up my drowzy Soul from the sleep of sin , and carnal security . Let my Body be ever assistant to my Soul , in all good actions in this life , that they may both be partakers of life everlasting . Thou , O Lord , hast promised ( to those which shall faithfully ask ) all things necessary for this life : give me , I beseech thee , ( if it seem good unto thee ) such a competent estate , as shall be expedient to support my life , in a civil , modest , and religious manner . Give unto me that which shall be convenient , but especially , O Lord , a heart and mind contented , 1 Tim. 6. 8. with whatsoever thou shalt be pleased to allot unto me . Grant , O Lord , that in thy Name , I may cast forth my Net , into the Sea of this World , and diligently , carefully , and with an upright Conscience , follow that vocation in which thou hast placed me : that by thine aid and assistance , I may prosper , and have good success in all my affairs . Bless , O Lord , the Kings Majesty , govern his heart in thy fear , and guide his understanding , to do those things which shall be acceptable to thee , and profitable to his Kingdomes . Give him loving and loyal Subjects , and suppress his open and secret Enemies . And ( together with him ) bless his Queen , and Royal Issue , make her as the fruitful Vine on the House-top . Ps. 128.3 . Bless all the State Ecclesiastical and Civil , from the highest to the lowest . Comfort the comfortless and helpless . Bring all Travellers to their own beings in safety , and direct all upon the Seas to their safe Ports . Shew the light of thy Truth to those which wander out of the right way . Give to all sinnen true and hearty repentance , strengthen those which have begun well , and give thy assisting grace , that they may persevere in goodness . To all my Friends , Kindred , and Enemies , and to those which pray for me , give all thy good blessings : Keep us all , from all evil , and make us to continue in thy Service to our lives end ; and after the course of this miserable life ended , bring us to thine everlasting Kingdom , through Iesus Christ our Lord .

Or thus .

ALmighty and everlasting GOD , I praise and bless thee , from the bottom of my heart , that of thy infinite goodness , thou hast preserved me this night past , and hast ( with the impregnable defence of thy Providence ) defended me from the power and malice of the Devil , and kept me both in Soul and Body from all his devices and snares , and raised me from sleep , ( the image of death ) and not left me to be stifled in the darkness of my sins , but hast given me a longer space to repent me of them . I humbly intreat thee , that thou wouldst not withdraw thy hand of Protection from me , but take me into thy Tuition . Watch over me with the eyes of thy mercy , Ps. 119 5. and direct me in the way of thy Commandements . Endue me with those graces of thy Holy Spirit , whereby I may pass this day , and the rest of my life , to the praise and glory of thy Name , the benefit of my Neighbour , and the salvation of my sinful Soul . Keep me , O Lord , from all sin , bridle and mortifie my flesh , that I offend not , nor fall into any transgressions , which may provoke thy wrath against me . Direct my Soul and Body , my words and actions , according to the rule of thy Will . Divert my heart from fastning too much upon transitory pleasures , and convert it to the delight of eternal joyes . And because I am not worthy , O Lord , that thou shouldst hear me , poor wretched sinner , for any worth in me ; behold I set before the merits of thy only Son , 1 Joh. 2.2 . who is the propitiation for our sins : look upon him , and for his Righteousness , pardon the offences of me thy servant , and grant to me those things , by thy mercy , which by the strict Rule of thy justice are not due to me . Defend me , O Lord , from all mine Enemies . Arm me with thy Spiritual Weapons , put on me the Cloathing of Wisdom and Strength , Ephes. 6. the Brestplate of Righteousness , the Helmet of Salvation , the Shield of Faith , and the Sword of the Spirit , that in this earthly Pilgrimage , I may manfully oppose the Enemies of my Soul , the Concupiscence of the Flesh , the Tentations of the World , and Malice of the Devil , that so having finished valiently the course of this Terrestial Warfare , I may hereafter praise thee in thy Celestial Kingdom . And thou , O Lord , who givest food to every living Creature , and feedest the young Ravens which call upon thee , Ps. 147.9 . be merciful unto me , in the supply of those necessaries , which I daily want . Preserve me in health , 1 Tim. 6.8 . give me food and raiment , and sufficient to maintain me in that course of life , to which it hath pleased thee to call me , that having sufficient in all things , 2 Cor. 9.8 I may abound in good work . And grant that I may lead a quiet life in all godly conversation ; Jam. 3.13 . That having and using thy blessings worthily , I may pass this life with joy and comfort , till it please thee to call me to a better . Give thy blessings to the Kings Majesty , the Queen , the Royal Issue , and the whole Estate of this Kingdom ; and grant , that we may all bend our thoughts and studies to please thee , that at the last , by the merits and intercession of Iesus Christ , we may be received to thy Heavenly Kingdom , Amen .

Or thus .

O Almighty Lord God , which day after day dost minister to sinful man infinite occasions , whereby we may be stirred up to praise thy holy Name , and art most plentiful in pitty , and favourable to those , which with pure hearts , and unfeigned faith call upon thee ; behold me , thy poor unworthy servant , with the eyes of compassion , that at this time am bold to offer up unto thee a Morning Sacrifice of praise and thanks for all thy blessings ? and amongst the rest , for that thou hast vouchsafed , after a sufficient and quiet sleep , to raise me safe from my bed again , which favour thou hast not afforded to many others , who in far greater measure have deserved it , than my self ; for which mercy of thine , I am not able ( through my insufficiency and weakness ) to give unto thee due praise and thanksgiving . I pray thee therefore , in thy dear Sons Name , ( in whom thou art well pleased ) Mat. 3.17 . to accept these poor and weak thanks ; and for his sake also to be further aiding and assisting unto me this day following , in whatsoever I shall take in hand . For thou knowest , O Lord , how feeble mans nature is , insomuch , that if he trust to his own strength , of necessity he must fall into many miseries , errors , and dangers . Have mercy therefore upon mine infirmities , and be propitions and helping to me , that by thy illumination , I may discern and perceive good from evil ; and by thy leading and direction , may follow the one , and avoid the other . Lord , so guide me with thy holy Spirit , that I may neither do , speak , nor think any thing this day contrary to thy holy Will. Behold , O Lord , I offer my self a living Sacrifice to thee ; and humbly pray thee to accept it . Good God , direct my Soul in the way of thy Commandements ; increase my Faith , Ps. 119.5 . strengthen my Hope , enlarge my Charity , and infuse all the good Graces of thy Holy Spirit into me . Give me grace , so to remember my sins , as that thou mayest forget them ; and so to forsake them , as that thou mayest forgive them . Instruct me in all goodness , and give me the grace of Perseverance , that I fly not back from any good courses in this life , but that I may go forward , and continue in them , to the end of my dayes . O Lord , who hast promised the necessaries of this life , Mat. 6.36 . to those which shall first seek thy Kingdom ; I humbly intreat thee , to give unto me this day , all things necessary for my sustentation ; as Food , Rayment , Health of Body , Ioy of Heart , Peace of Conscience , and a blessing to all my endeavours ; give me a mind contented with that which shall be sufficient , and not desirous of that which is superfluous ; that I may pass the rest of my dayes on earth religiously , honestly , and soberly , as becommeth thy servant , to thy honour and my endless comfort . Be gracious to the Kings most Excellent Majesty ; his Royal Queen , the Royal Issue , the whole Estate , Clergy , Nobility , Gentry , Mastistrates , and Commons ; give us all grace in our several places , to do our Duties , as in thy sight ; that at the last ( by the merits of Iesus Christ our Saviour ) we may receive the reward thereof in thy eternal Kingdom , where thou reignest , together with the same our Lord Iesus Christ , and the Holy Spirit , World without End .

Morning Prayer for a Family .

O Almighty Lord God , Heavenly Father , we give thee most humble and hearty thanks , in that thou hast not only of nothing created us after thine own Image , Gen. 1.26 . but also hast from time to time most graciously preserved us ; even to this present Morning , from all dangers and terrours , and hast given us this night past sweet sleep , and comfortable rest ; whereby we are refreshed and fitted to our bodily labour . We thank thee , O Lord , for all thy Spiritual Blessings , for our Regeneration , Iustification , Sanctification in some measure , and our Redemption by Iesus Christ We praise thy Name , for thy bountiful supply of all things necessary for this life , as also for thy patient and long expectance of us in our Conversion . O Lord , we confess that we have been so far from the serious consideration of thy favours to us , and from rendering due thanks unto thee for them , that in stead thereof , we have grievously offended thy Majesty , with most abominable and vile sins , notwithstanding thou hast sought to reduce us to thy obedience , by the good motions of thy Holy Spirit . As often , O Lord , as we look about us , either with the eyes of our bodies or minds , so often do thy fatherly and innumerable benefits appear unto us . For all which , we tender again and again , from the bottom of our hearts , infinite thanks unto thee ; and humbly desire thee , for thy mercies sake in Christ Iesus , to pardon all our ingratitude and rebellions . Enlighten us , we pray thee , with thy holy Spirit , that we may see our imperfections ; kindle our zeal towards thee rule and govern our minds , wills , affections , and actions , that we may not offend thee any more . And give us Grace . that we may alwayes think , speak , and do , whatsoever shall be pleasing unto thee , and abstain from all things which shall displease or ofsend thee . It is more than enough , O Lord , that we have been hitherto so rebellious against thee : It is too much , that we have been so negligent to serve thee ; and it is worst of all , that we have been so ingrateful to thee for all thy blessings . Let all evil and wickedness now depart from us , and let new manners , new affections , and new hearts be renewed in us . We commit our selves , O Lord , wholly into thy protection , this day , and the rest of our lives ; and most humbly desire thee , of thy infinite goodness , that as now thou hast put good thoughts into us , thou wilt be pleased to perfect them in us : so that being led by thy Holy Spirit , we may do that which is acceptable to thee , and love , serve , honour , and praise thy holy Name all the dayes of our lives . And for a much , O Lord , as thou hast promised to those that love thee , all things necessary for this life , we call and cry to thee , O our Father , which art in Heaven , to Give us this day our daily bread , even whatsoever is needful and expedient for our sustentation . Give us , O Lord , sufficient for our maintenance , lest we take evil and indirect courses , or blaspheme , or murmur against thee : and not too much , lest we forget from whose hands we receive it . Give not only that which shall be necessary , but contented minds also with it , Bless , O Lord , the labour and work of our hands , bless us at home and abroad , and grant that every one of us may truly ( as in thy sight ) walk in our several vocations ; and diligently and carefully intend the same ; making a Conscience of all our wayes , that by thy gracious favour ; and our own endeavours , we may have prosperous success in all things that we shall undertake . Continue , O Lord , thy Gospel among us . Bless our gracious King , with the Queen , the Royal Issue , the Lady Elizabeth , with her Princely Off-spring ; the whole Land , and all sorts and conditions of people in it . Bless all that travel by Sea or Land , and take into thy protection all Orphans , Widows , and all that suffer wrong : Give health and strength to the sick and weak , and joy and comfort to the sorrowful and afflicted . Bless us , O Lord , with healthful and sound Bodies , keep our good Names unspotted , and unblemished . Bless the fruits of the Earth , and give us wholesome , peaceable , and seasonable times . These , and all other thy blessings , which thou knowest better to give , than we to ask , vouchsafe ( if it seem good to thy Majesty ) to give us , for the worthiness of thy Son Iesus Christ our Lord , in whose blessed Name , and absolute Prayer , we close up our imperfect Prayers , aud say as he hath taught us : Our Father , &c.

Rules for Evening and Night .

AS we usually twice a day at the least , take our bodily sustenance , so should we be no less careful for the refreshing our Souls ; but twice a day likewise ( Morning and Evening , if not oftner ) dispose our selves to Devotion and Prayer . When thou therefore retirest thy self , ( as in the Morning ) remember , 1. To give God thanks that he hath delivered thee from the dangers of the day past , prospered thee in thy affairs , and given thee necessaries for thy sustentation . 2. Examine thy Conscience narrowly , and consider wherein thou hast ( the day past ) offended God , either in thought , word , or deed : and having set thine Offences before thee , confess them to him , ( and in the bitterness of thy Soul ) repent thee , be sorry for them , and crave pardon for them , and desire his grace that thou offend no more in the like . 3. Pray to God to continue his care ever thee , the night following , and to defend thee from all perils and dangers .

So that going to thy rest with these good action : and thoughts , thou shalt do like to those , which rake up Fire in the Embers over night , that they may the more readily find it in the Morning .

In the Night .

VVHen thou awakest in the Night , call upon God likewise , ( for the Night was not made wholly for sleep ) praise him , contemplate , and meditate upon his works . Sometimes weep for thy sins , according to the practice of DAVID . Ps. 6. 6. For as the nightly dew refresheth and tempereth the Earth ; so do our nightly tears asswage our Concupiscences . And sometimes rejoyce in the Lord , according to that of the Psalmist , 149. 5. for the great benefits thou hast received from him . By these means , keeping thy self to one holy Exercise or other , thou shalt be sure to avoid the Devils Tentations , whose chief time of setting upon us , fitteth best with his works , which are usually stiled , Eph. 5.11 . The works of darkness .

Evening Prayer . The Lord hath granted his loving kindness in the ` Day , Ps. 10 . 4● . therefore in the Night will I sing of him , and make my Prayer to the God of my life .

O Lord God , Father everlasting , I yield thee most humble and hearty thanks , that thou hast not only averted thy punishments from me , which my grievous sins have deserved ; but instead thereof , hast preserved me from all dangers , and supplyed me with all necessaries of this life . O Lord , I confess , that I have so highly offended thee this day , that all the punishments which may be inflicted upon vile and miserable sinners , are due to me . I confess , Repeat the sins thou canst call to mind . O Lord , that I have offended thy Majesty in — And not only these do I acknowledge , but all the rest , which I have committed from my infancy , to this present hour , wittingly , or ignorantly , in thought , word , or deed , against Thee , my Neighbour , and my Self . O Lord , I confess my weakness , Ro. 7. 19. I do not that which I should , and would do : but that which I should not , and am unwilling to do , I do : Not regarding or fearing thy incomprehensible Glory ; venerable Presence , terrible Power , exquisite Iustice , nor thy Goodness unspeakable ; for which , Ps. 143.2 . if thou shouldest enter into judgement , what would become of me ? But , O Lord , for as much as thou art a Father of mercies , 2 Cor. 1.3 . and dost not desire the death of a sinner , Eze. 33. 11. if he return unto thee by unfeigned repentance : I most humbly ( in the Name and Mediation of our blessed Saviour Christ Iesus ) crave pardon for them . Lord I repent , help my impenitency , and hear my request . Be merciful to me a sinner , and pardon all my offences , whereof thou , O Lord , knowest me to be guilty . And I beseech thee , O Lord , for the time to come , to mollifie my heart , water it with the dew of thy Heavenly Grace , that I may not alwayes bring forth thornes and weeds fit for nothing but the fire . Cant. 1.4 . Convert me , O Lord , and I shall be converted ; open my eyes , direct my heart and wayes : Draw me after thee , and being converted , 2 Pet. 2. 22. suffer me not to return again with the Dog to his vomit . And forasmuch , O Lord , as thou hast appointed the Night to refresh our bodies , I humbly pray thee , to defend me ( as well sleeping as waking ) from the snares of the Devil . Psal. 31.5 . O Lord , into thy hands I commend my Spirit , which thou hast redeemed ( by thy precious death and passion . ) Suffer it not to sleep in sin , and in it lye languishing unto death , and so be buried in the grave of thy judgements : but watch over it , I beseech thee , and defend it under the shadow of thy wings . Psal. 17.8 . Let me not be oppressed with unnecessary sleep , but raise me in due time to thy Service and Praise . Thou knowest , O Lord , that of my self I have no strength waking , much less when I sleep : I humbly therefore pray thee , to defend my Soul , Body , Goods , ( and all things which thou hast bestowed upon me ) this Night , from all evil and damage ; and so dispose of me , that I be not troubled with any terrours , terrified with any vain phantasies , weakned by any sickness , or impoverished with any casualties or crosses . Keep me , O Lord , from all evil dreams , and unclean thoughts , and compass me with a wall of thy mercies , that the Tempter approach not to my Bed : so that being preserved by thy protection , and refreshed with comfortable rest , I may arise , and offer unto thee my daily bounden duty and service , even praise and thanks to thy most holy Name .

Or thus .

O Blessed Lord Iesus Christ , to whose inexhaustible bounty we owe all honour and praise , I give thee all possible thanks , that thou hast vouchsafed to keep me this day from all evil , so that none of thy fearful judgements ( to which I was justly lyable ) have fallen upon me ; but of thy unspeakable mercy , thou hast preserved me from them , and hast also liberally , and with a bountiful hand , supplyed me with the necessaries of this life , notwithstanding my great and manifold sins committed against thee . O Lord , I confess , that I have wasted the time ( which thou hast given me for repentance ) altogether idlely , vainly , and unprofitably , not so much as considering , or taking notice , that this day might have been the last of my life , but have added and heaped up sin upon sin , in thy All-seeing sight , as if I had stood in no fear of thee at all , daily renewing ( as much as in me lay ) thy torments and passions : for which I have deserved , that the Earth should open unto me , and Hell devour me : which , that it is not come to pass , I ascribe ( with all thankful acknowledgement ) to thy infinite mercy and goodness . O Lord , I acknowledge , that it is of thy goodness alone , that I am thus preserved from all thy judgements , seeing that many calamities have befallen divers others , who have less deserved them than my self . That some have therefore perished by water , some by fire , some by sword , others by sudden and violent death , and that I live : That some have been taken blind , some lame , some distracted in their senses : That others have sustained much damage in their worldly estate , and I have escaped , and not been punished in any of these kinds ; To what shall I ascribe and attribute the cause ? surely to thy mercy alone , for which I cannot give unto thee sufficient thanks . But , O sweet Saviour , as thy mercy exceedeth , so do our necessities increase ; thou canst not want matter for thy mercy to work upon , by reason of our inabilities to help our selves : Wherefore , I further pray thee , that this night following may be also safe and prosperous unto me , that by a sweet sleep , and comfortable refreshing , I may be fitted , when I awake , to serve thee with a thankful & chearful heart . And because , O Lord , that this life hath not one certain hour , I beseech thee to Enlighten mine eyes , that I sleep not in death , Psal. 13.4 . and grant , that after I have rested quietly , I may , by thy grace and mercy , arise to serve thee in singleness of heart . Lighten ( O Saviour ) my darkness , and mercifully keep me from all dangers of this night . Save me waking , and keep me sleeping , that I may watch in thee , and rest in peace . There is nothing that more resembleth our Life , than the Day ; nor the Grave , than our Beds : O Lord , therefore , when I am laid down , and by sleep made unable to help my self , being like unto a dead man , defend me then , by thy power , from the crafts and assaults of the Enemy , that he do me no harm ; so that ( though my Body sleep ) my Soul may watch unto thee , and contemplate of the life to come . And grant , that having passed the night quietly , I may arise as well from the sleep of sin , as from my natural sleep ; and with all alacrity pass the day following in thy service ; and in the end of my pilgrimage ( by thy merits ) receive the Crown , which thou hast promised to those that love thee , in that day which no night shall follow , and in that Heavenly Kingdom where thou reignest , together with the Father , and the blessed Spirit , world without end .

Evening Prayer .

Ps. 141.1 . LEt my prayer , O Lord , be set forth in thy sight , as the Incense , and let the lifting up of my hands , be an Evening Sacrifice .

55. 10. In the Evening , Morning , and at Noon-day , will I pray , and that instantly , and thou Lord shalt hear my prayer .

〈◊〉 . 1. Blessed be thou , O Lord , Who hast preserved me from the Arrow that flyeth by day , and from the Sickness that destroyeth in the noon-day .

Esa. 38.1 . Who hast not cut off my life like a Weaver ; nor made an end of me .

O Lord , I confess , that as my dayes have increased , so hath my sin multiplied .

Pro. 24.16 . The just man falleth seven times a day : But I miserable sinner , seventy times seven times .

But I return to thee , O Lord , and repent : Luc. 17.4 . Let not the Sun go down in thy wrath .

O Lord , whatsoever good I have done this day , I acknowledge , that thou hast wrought it in me , and desire thee graciously to accept of me for it , as thy Instrument only .

O Lord , whatsoever evil I have committed this day , I confess it to be the work of mine own hands , and heartily pray thee to pardon it .

O Lord , which givest the sleep of health to them that love , and causest those that fear thee , Psal. 13.4 . Psal. 91.5 . to sleep confidently , Lighten mine eyes , that I sleep not in death . Keep me from the terrours of the night , aud from the works of darkness .

Lord , Cant. 5. though I sleep , yet let my heart watch to thee ; and when I wake , let me be present before thee , let my thoughts ascend to thee .

Grant , that I may alwayes remember , that the night is no night with thee , Ps. 139.12 and that darkness and light are to thee alike .

Grant , that I may alwayes meditate upon the long and last sleep , the sleep of Death , the Bed of my Grave , Esa. 14.19 . and the Covering of Worms and Dust.

Let my sleep be a cessation from sin , and let me not in my sleep do , or think any thing , that may offend thee , or defile my self .

And grant , that after the sleep shall depart from mine eyes , I may remember thee , search my reines , and try my heart .

O Lord , I commend my self , and all that ( of thy bounty ) is mine , to thee . Psal. 71.1 . In thee I put all my trust and confidence .

Thou seest in what dangers we are , what snares the Devil layeth for us :

I humbly therefore pray thee , to defend me from him .

And grant me so to order and end my life , that I may sleep in peace , and take my rest with thee , for the merits of Iesus Christ , &c.

Psal. 4. 9. I will lay me down in peace , and take my rest , for it is thou Lord only that makest me dwell in safety .

Evening Prayer for a Family .

O Almighty and everlasting God , who hast appointed all times and seasons to succeed in their due course ; and hast ordained the day for the works of the day , and bodily labour ; and the night to take our quiet rest & refreshing : by whose providence and mercy , we have been preserved this day from all dangers , & have been furnished with all things necessary for this life : we humbly pray and beseech thee , that now , in this time of night and darkness ( wherein we poor and miserable sinners stand in most need of thy help and aid ) thou wouldst be pleased , to keep us from all dangers ; spiritual and temporal . O Lord , we confess , that we have not deserved the least of thy favours ; nay , if thou shouldst with strict eye examine our actions , how we have spent this day , and the rest of our dayes past , we should not be able to stand in thy sight , Psal. 5.5 . much less beg any further blessings of thee . For ( notwithstanding thy manifold and daily favours ) we have in all things been rebellious and repugnant to thy blessed Will ; and obedient and conformable to the command of our Enemies ; the Flesh , the World , and the Devil : Insomuch , as we have lost our liberties , and are become servants and slaves unto them . For we have wholly given ourselves to serve the pleasures of the Flesh , in Concupiscences and other carnal Acts : We have hearkned too much to the delights of the World , in covetous desiring that which is not our own , in abusing the Creatures thereof , which were created for our necessary use , and not for our wanton and insatiable desires : And we are become the servants of Satan , in not opposing and resisting his unclean and wicked Tentations . Our sins are infinite , and our iniquities are numberless , so that we cannot , nor are any way able to recount them unto thee . We have fled from thee , seeking us : neglected thee , loving us : stopped our ears to thee , speaking to us : turned our backs to thee , reaching thy hand to us : forgotten thee , doing good to us : and despised thee , correcting us . Yet , O Lord , we humbly intreat thee , to shew thy accustomed mercy to us , poor and miserable sinners , who in grief and anguish of soul , confess these our offences , and earnestly and bitterly bewail them . Look upon us with the eyes of compassion , not for any thing in us , but for the love and respect which thou bearest to thy Son CHRIST JESUS , in whom we verily believe , that thou art fully reconciled unto us , Take away our sins , and the punishment due unto us for them . Let thy wrath be turned from us , and destroy us not together with our manifold transgressions . Lord , thou seest our wickedness , and withall , how , and in whose name , we crave thy mercy . Turn thee , O Lord , from thine anger , which thou mightest justly pour upon us , and be gracious unto us , according to thy wonted goodness , who abhorrest nothing which thou hast made : Create also , we beseech thee , in us , new hearts , hearts fit to serve thee , and write thy Law in them , Jer. 31.33 . with the finger of thy Holy Spirit , that all our desires and actions may be conformable to thy blessed Will . And now again , O Lord , we desire thy Majesty , to take our Souls and Bodies into thy protection this night following : Suffer us not to sleep in sin , but watch over us , Psal. 17.8 . and defend us under the shaddow of thy wings : Let not our sleep be excessive or immoderate , but raise us again in due time , that after a quiet and moderate sleep , we may arise to serve and praise thee joyfully , begin and perfect our works justly : labour in our vocations truly ; and seek thy Kingdom earnestly : that at the last , by thee , with thee , and in thee , we may come unto the same Kingdom , by the merits of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST , in whose Name and Prayer we are bold to call further upon thee , saying , Our Father , &c.

Prayers upon the Life and Death of our Saviour Iesus Christ .

O Sweet SAVIOUR , Who for the love of Mankind , didst vouchsafe to descend from thy Royal Throne , from the bosom of thy Father , into this vale of misery , and to take on thee the form of a sinner , even humane flesh , in the sanctified womb of the most chast and pure Virgin , and be born without impeachment to her Virginity ;

Be pleased of thy great clemency , to make my heart thy habitation , adorn it to that end with all Spiritual Graces , and be daily born in me , by renewing in my Soul a fervent love to thee , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Lord , Who being God Almighty , didst not disdain at thy Birth , to be wrapped in swadling clouts , and to be laid in a Manger .

Grant , that I may be ever in thy fight a little Infant , in Humility and Lowliness of Spirit : take from me all ambitious Thoughts , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Lord , Who at thy Birth wouldst be received into this World with the joyful Hymns of blessed Angels , and be found to the great delight and admiration of poor Shepheards ;

Give thy Grace unto me thy poor unworthy servant , continually to persevere in thy praises : to seek thee with the Shepheards affection , by seeking , to find thee ; and finding thee , alwayes to retain and enjoy thee , and

Be merciful to me .

O Sweet Jesu , Who wert pleased upon the eight day to be circumcised , and in that most tender age of thine , didst begin to shed thy blood , meerly for the love of me and mankind .

Cut off , I intreat thee , all superfluities from my Soul , and take from me all evil thoughts , words , and works , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Christ , Who ( to the unspeakable comfort of me , and all thine Elect ) wouldst be called by the saving Name of Iesus ;

Grant , that the memory of this Name may ever cause a reverend respect in me toward thee , and that by it I may be preserved all my life , and at the hour of death , and

Be merciful to me .

O Loving Lord God , Who wouldst be found in the Wise men which sought thee , with Faith and Devotion ; and who ) having found thee ) fell before thee with Oblations of Gold , Frankincense , and Myrrhe ;

Be pleased , I beseech thee , that I may find thee in Spirit , and worship thee in Spirit and Truth : Offering unto thee the Gold of bright shining Charity , the Incense of pure Devotion , and the Myrrhe of perfect Mortification , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Saviour , Who to leave Mankind an example of Obedience and Humility , wouldst become subject to the Law , and be brought to the Temple , and there have offered for thee the Oblations of the Poor , and not the rich ;

Give me the Grace of Obedience , to subject my self willingly to my Governours : Suffer not the least thought of pride to reign in me , but quench in me all haughtiness of Spirit , with inordinate love , and conceit of my self , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Lord , Who whilst thou wert yet young and tender , wert contentted to suffer persecution , and flee with thy blessed Mother into AEgypt ;

Grant me such ability by thy grace , whereby I may not only suffer persecution and affliction when it shall please thee , but also persecute and punish all wickedness within my self before it grow too strong for me , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Jesu , Who being sought for by thy blessed Mother three dayes , wouldst be found of her in the Temple ;

Suffer me never to be severed from thee , give me such a devotion toward thee , that I may never be weary in serving thee , nor satisfied with praising thee , either in Church , or private Closet , and

Be merciful to me .

O Loving Lord , Who wouldst enter the River Jordan , and there be Baptized by thy Fore-runner John the Baptist ;

Be pleased , that I may be purified in this life by thy merits , and thereby washed from all my sins , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Saviour , who didst continue fasting and praying forty dayes and nights together in the Desert , and after divers Tentations , didst overcome Satan ;

Grant , that I may chastise my flesh , and exercise my self in Fasting , Watching , Prayer , and other Spiritual Excercises , and subdue all evil Affections , which rebel against the Spirit , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Redeemer , Who for my sake didst subject thy self to many Sorrows and Necessities , to Heat , Cold , Hunger , Thirst , Weariness , Sweat , Iourneys , Persecutions , and Tribulations ;

Strengthen me with the aid of thy Holy Spirit , that I may willingly bear all Adversities , as coming from thy hand , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Lord , Who , while thou wert upon Earth , didst vouchsafe to comfort the Sons of Men , and heal their Infirmities ;

Replenish my heart with all pious Affection , that I may account the miseries of others as mine own , and supply their necessities in whatsoever I may , according to my ability , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Lord , Who , for thy love to Mankind , didst eudure infinite Miseries , Injuries , Calumnies , Blasphemies , and Revilings , even of those to whom thou hast done much good ;

Create in me a heart pure and innocent , which may forgive mine Enemies , and love them , rendring good for evil , whereby I may shew my self a true follower of thy perfect Charity and Patience , and

Be merciful to me .

O Merciful Saviour , Who , to abrogate the Ceremonial Law , didst eat the Paschal Lamb with thy Disciples , and giving them an example of Humility , upon thy knees didst wash their feet ;

Grant , that this example may take deep impression in me ; give me perfect Humility , true Obedience , and fervent Love , whereby I may love thee sincerely , and all others unseignedly , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Lord , Who , of thy great love , didst institute the blessed Sacrament of thy Body and Blood , whereby thou mightest continue with us to the end of the World ;

Stir up in me an earnest desire and longing after this holy Sacrament , and grant , that I may ever receive it with a chast love , deep affection , and a pure heart , and

Be merciful to me .

O Loving Lord , Who , when thou wert to leave this World , didst comfort thy Disciples , and with ardent and affectionate prayer didst commend them to the Father , thereby shewing what love thou didst bear to them , and all others who should believe in thee ;

Make my heart sensible of this love , and raise in me an earnest affection to thee , that I may be wholly transformed into the love of thee , and

Be merciful to me .

O Merciful Saviour , Who praying in the Garden , didst wholly resign thy self to thy Fathers good pleasure , desiring , that not thy will , but his should be wholly done ;

Give me grace , that in all adversity and tribulation I may flee to thee by prayer , and ever commit my self to thy providence and good pleasure , and

Be merciful to me .

O Sweet Jesu , Who didst suffer thy self to be taken and bound as a Malefactor , neither didst lamont nor murmur whilst thou wert shamefully entreated by thy Enemies ,

Give me strength , after thine example , willingly and patiently to endure all adversity and tribulation , which shall at any time befall me , and

Be merciful unto me .

O Blessed Saviour , Who wouldst be forsaken of thine own Disciples in the midst of thy troubles and afflictions ;

Pardon me , thy fugitive servant , and receive me into thy favour : Suffer me not to wander from thee any more , But give me such constancy and perseverance , that I may continue in thy service to the end of my dayes , and

Be merciful to me .

O Merciful Jesu , Who , standing in the presence of the High Priest , didst patiently endure a cruel blow ;

Mortifie in me all angry affections , that I be not disquieted when I am injured , nor think of revenge , but for thy sake may bear all things patiently , rendring good for evil , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Redeemer , Who in the night of thy Passion , wouldst be mocked , derided , and many wayes be despightfully handled ;

Help mine infirmities , lend me aid , that I faint not under Tentations or Tribulations , but give me grace to be thankful to thee for them , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Lord , Who wouldst not reply to the unjust Accusations of thine Enemies , but mildly with a deaf ear wouldst let them pass ;

Grant , that no Slanders may move me to impatience , but that by thine example I may patiently overcome all that any way defame or injure me , and

Be merciful to me .

O Loving Saviour , Who being denied by thy Apostle St. Peter , didst look on him with the eye of compassion , and cause him to bewail his offence with bitter tears ;

Look also on me miserable sinner , with the same gracious and moving aspect , that I may wash away my sins with the tears of repentance , and never deny thee my Lord and Saviour by word or deed , and

Be merciful to me .

O Sweet Jesu , Who being stripped , wouldst be bound to a Pillar , and scourged , whereby thy blessed body was torn and wounded ;

Heal my wounds by thy stripes , take all evil thoughts from me , and grant me patience to endure the stroakes of thy Fatherly Visitation , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Lord , Who , after so many wounds received , and so much precious blood shed , wert mooked , and crowned with a Crown of thorns ;

Grant , that the remembrance , thereof may be imprinted in my heart , and that I may love thee for thy exceeding Charity , and wholly think of thee , wholly contemplate on thy bitter pains , and

Be merciful to me .

O Bountiful Jesu , Who wert pleased with great pain , labour , and weariness , to carry thine own Cross to Mount Calvary , and there to comfort the lamenting Women , exhorting them to weep not for thee , but themselves , and Children ;

Give me grace , with a chearful mind , to bear any cross thou shalt lay upon me , and to bewail with tears my sinful life past , and

Be merciful to me .

O Merciful Redeemer , Who didst suffer thy sacred hands and feet to be pierced with nails , and fastned to the Cross , and there didst with great effusion of blood suffer unexpressable torments ;

Grant , that I may alwayes with a saithful and thankful heart ; bear in mind thy exceeding great love , who wouldst endure so great and grievous things for me . Purge and wash my Soul with those streams of thy most precious blood , from all uncleanness , and offer them to the Father for a full and plenary satisfaction of all my transgressions , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Lord , Who , in thy bitter pains , didst intercede with the Father for thine Enemies which crucified thee ; saying , Father forgive them , for they know not what they do ;

Give me grace , that , according to thy Precept and Practice , I may love mine Ememies , pray for them , and do good to those which do evil unto me , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Lord , Who , being crucified between two Thieves , didst promise to the one of them , confessing thee the fruition of Paradise ;

Look upon me with the eyes of pitty , wherewith thou beheldest that good Thief , and grant , I may live so , that at the end of my dayes , I may be found worthy to hear that joyful speech , This day thou shalt be with me in Paradise , and

Be merciful to me .

O Sweet Jesu , Who , for the grievousness of torments , and exceeding loss of blood , didst faint , and cry , I thirst ; and wert pleased to drink Gall and Vinegar ;

Let the remembrance of this CuP extinguish in me all inordinate riot and excess . Give me the Vertue of Sobriety , that all inordinate passions being quenched in me , I may wholly thirst after thee , and

Be merciful to me .

O Loving Lord , Who , when thou wert so pleased , didst call for death , and bending thy head , didst commend thy Spirit into the hands of thy Father ;

Grant , that the uncertainty of my death may be ever in my thoughts , and that I may be ever willing and ready to leave this transitory life when it shall seem good to thee , to whose blessed protection I commend my Soul , praying thee to

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Saviour , Who , with great sorrow of thy friends , wert taken down from the Cross , & laid in the Sepulcher ,

Bury with thee all my evil desires , that I may seem dead to those things which displease thee , and be wholly delighted in thee my Redeemer , and

Be merciful to me .

O Glorious Lord , Who , after three dayes , having overcome and triumphed over Death and Satan , didst rise again out of the Grave , and visit thy Disciples and Friends ;

Revive me from the death of sin , cause me to walk in newness of life , and to seek after Heavenly things , that when thou comest again , I may appear with thee in Glory , and

Be merciful to me .

O Merciful Saviour , Who , forty dayes after thy Resurrectiou , didst gloriously and triumphantly ascend into Heaven , in the sight of thy Disciples ;

Let it please thy goodness , to infuse a longing desire and love of thee into my Soul , that it may be elevated in affection to thee , and seek those things which are above , and

Be merciful to me .

O Gracious Lord , Who ( according to thy Promise before thy Ascension ) didst send thy Spirit upon thy Disciples , and other thy Elect Servants ;

Purifie ( I beseech thee ) my heart , that the same Spirit finding my Soul pure and clean , may make his abode in it , and adorn it with his manifold graces , and

Be merciful to me .

O Blessed Saviour , Who , when thou shalt at the last day come to judge the quick and dead , wilt render to every one according to his works , either reward , or punishment ;

Give me grace , so to pass this Earthly Pilgrimage , according to thy Holy Will , that at that Day I may be ( through thy merits ) thought worthy to be received into thy Heavenly Mansion , there to praise and bless thee with the Holy Company of blessed Saints and Angels for evermore , and

Be merciful to me .

Amen .

Prayers for several Persons .

For a Married Man .

O Gracious Father , Maker and Preserver of Heaven and Earth , who in the beginning didst institute Matrimony , foretelling the mystical union of the Church , with our Saviour Christ : Who also , in the time of his being upon Earth , John 2. did honour Marriage with his first Miracle : And hast appointed it also for a means whereby Mankind is propagated , for a remedy to avoid unlawful Lust , Gen. 2. and for the mutual Comfort and Consolation of thy Children : I humbly intreat thee , to give me the assistance of thy Divine Grace , that I may live according to thy Commandements , with my Wife , whom thou hast given for my help and comfort , in this World . Mortifie in me all unclean , dishonest , and fleshly Lusts , let not the heat of unlawful Concupiscence take hold of me , but make me to be fully pleased , and satisfied with her love , and to love her , as Christ loved his Church , to cherish and comfort her as mine own body , and to have as great a care of her health , as of mine own . Grant , that we may live in peace , without debate ; in unity , without discord ; like the members of one body , equally desirous to praise thy holy Name . And as thou hast ( O Lord ) bestowed many Children upon us , give us discreet hearts , and understanding minds , to bring them up in thy Faith and Fear , in a religious , honest , and civil manner . Give them obedient hearts to thee , and to thy Commandements , and to all that thou requirest of them , to be performed in duty , towards us their Parents : Keep them from those which are ready to seduce them , and so lead them in thy Faith , Fear , and Knowledge , that they prove not a curse , but a blessing unto us ; and thereby attain to that blessing which thou hast promised to those which honour and obey their Parents . Grant likewise , O Lord , that I may guide and instruct the Family which is under me , in thy fear , and in honest and careful manner provide as well for their bodies , as their souls . And give them the like Grace . O Lord , to perform their duties , in fear and obedience , not as eye-servers , Eph. 6. 6. but in simplicity of heart , as in thy sight . Col. 3 21. And give us ( O Lord ) a competency of Estate , to maintain our Selves , Children , and Family , according to that Rank or Calling , wherein thou of thy goodness hast placed us , without excess , riot , or vain-glory ; and in singleness and pureness of heart , with all humility , relying upon thy blessed will , who knowest better than we our selves what is needful for us . To thee be all Honour and Glory , now , and for ever .

For a Married Woman .

O Merciful and Loving Lord God , who in the beginning , for the propagation of Mankind , didst take Eve out of the side of Adam , Gen. 2.22 . and gave her to him as an helper . I give thee humble thanks , that thou hast vouchsafed to call me to the honourable estate of Matrimony . Give me grace , O Lord , that I may lead a life worthy thereof , that I may love my Husband : with a pure and chast love , acknowledge him for my Head , and truly reverence and obey him , in all good things ; that thereby I may please him , and live quietly with him . Grant , that I be not carried away with the vain fashions of this World , but may put on such habits as shall be agreeable and suitable with the estate of my Husband , and may become a modest Woman to wear . Help me , O Lord , that I may , under him , prudently , and discreetly guide , and govern his Houshold and Family ; and carefully look that nothing be either carelesly lost , or wickedly committed in my House . Fit me with those good Graces , Pro. 31. which the Wise Man described in a Good Woman ; 1 Pet. 3. and Saint Peter , in Holy and Sanctified Matrons . Give me such care concerning the Education of my Children , as belongeth to my part , that I may live , to see them prosper in this life , and afterwards we may all be received to thy Eternal Kingdom , through Iesus Christ , &c.

For a Child .

O Almighty Lord God , to whom the Obedience of Children to their Parents is most acceptable , and all Disobedience most displeasing ; who hast promised a Blessing to the Dutiful , Exod. 20. and threatned a Curse to the Disobedient Children . I beseech thee , to put away from me the detestable Sin of Disobedience , and Rebellion against my Parents ; and give me grace to observe them with all kind of Duty : to obey them in all their just Commands : and to be ayding and helpful to them at all time of their need . Give me grace ; to bear all their reproofs and errours patiently , and not to grieve them , by stubborn and evil courses . Let me not be so far deprived of thy Grace , that I scoff or deride them , though by age , or infirmity , they shall fail in their Iudgement or Reason : but cause me to supply their wants , lest that I having plenty , and ( they being in any need or distress ) I not supplying it , or not succouring them , their lives , to whom I owe mine , may be in danger to be shortned . Lord , forgive all the Offences which I have heretofore committed against them . Increase the number of their dayes : keep them safe in body and mind : let them see their Childrens Children , Ps. 128.6 . to their Comfort , and thy Glory . Let them govern us , and the rest of their Family , with wholesome Discipline , and good Example : that at the last , they may , in their due time , depart this life in peace , and come to thy Kingdom unspotted , through Iesus Christ .

For a Woman with Child .

O Blessed Lord God , who , for the Offence of the first Woman , Gen. 3.10 . didst denounce , and impose an inevitable Curse upon all her posterity ; namely , that they should conceive in sin , and be subject to many grievous pains , and should bring forth their Children with great danger . Asswage , I beseech thee , of thy goodness , the sharpness of that Decree , and preserve me , that I may overcome and escape this great danger , and be delivered of the fruit of my body , without peril of death ; and that it may safely be brought to the Sacred Font of Baptism , and be regenerated and ingrafted into the mystical Body of Christ , and made partaker of his Death and Passion . And as thou hast of thy bounty given bodily life to it , and me : so grant us both life spiritual : and so sanctifie our Bodies and Souls here , that hereafter we may live among thy blessed Saints for ever , in the life to come .

For a Young Man , or Maid .

O Lord , forasmuch as I am ( at these years ) in the heat of the flesh , and in the most dangerous time of my life , I beseech thee , take not thy Mercy and Fatherly Providence from me : but , by how much the greater danger of Tentations I am in , with so much the more care let thy Grace preserve me , lest happily I become a Prey to mine Enemies , Ps. 124.6 . who go about to load me with so many sins , that if they prevail , I shall never of my self get from under the burthen of them . But , O merciful Father , ( distrusting in mine own strength ) I betake my self wholly to thy protection ; and desire thee , both now and ever , to keep me . Let me not get that habit of sinning in my younger years , that I be forced in my age ( if I be not stifled before in my Offences ) to bewail the sins of my youth , and to say with David , Remember not , O Lord , the sins of my youth : Psal. 25.6 But rather accustome me , from this time forward , to all goodness , that I may daily more and more profit therein : And that ( serving thee with a pure heart now ) I may in mine age say with good King Ezechias , Esa. 38.3 . O Lord , remember , I beseech thee , how I have walked before thee in truth , with a perfect heart , and have done that which is good in thy sight . Most loving Father , who takest care of all men , I commend unto thee my Soul , as a Child , that can of himself do nothing : Defend me , I pray thee , from all mine Enemies spiritual and temporal ; keep my Body and Soul pure , chast , and undefiled ; that I offend not , either in obscene speech , impure thought , or unclean act . My Chastity is a more precious Iewel than I can keep , without thy help : I therefore beseech thee , ( who hast pronounced a blessing to the pure heart ) to keep my heart pure ; be thou my guide and preserver , lest in the heat of Concupiscence , I forget thee . Give me grace , O Lord , to serve and obey my Parents , and those to whose Government I am committed , and that , in all humility . And grant , that if thou shalt be pleased to call me to the honourable estate of Wedlock , I may be matched with one , with whom I may serve thee in peace and holiness all the dayes of my life , and at the last rest with thee in thy Heavenly Kingdom , through Iesus Christ our Lord .

For a Servant .

BLessed Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ , who when thou wert the Son of God , and Lord of all the World , didst take upon thee the form of a Servant , Philip. 7. that by thy obedience thou mightest work the salvation of all people as well bond as free : I pray thee that , since thou hast been pleased to call me to the state of a Servant , thou wouldst give me an humble and obedient heart , and make me contented with this condition of life , as alotted to me by thy providence . Grant , that I may with gentleness of spirit , and singleness of heart ; and willingness of mind , serve those under whom I am placed : and that I may not either murmure against them , or envy those that are seated in a higher estate : that I may obey them , in all their honest commands , in all fear and true respect , not with Eye-service , as Men-pleasers , Col. 3.22 . but with all my heart , and the rather , because thy commandement bindeth me so to doe . Grant , that serving them diligently , faithfully and carefully , I may avoid their displeasure , and obtain thy favour and blessing , and at the end of my dayes , come to that blessed place , where Thou , with the Father and blessed Spirit , dost raign world without end .

Before a Iourney .

Joh. 14.6 . ALmighty and everlasting God who art the Way , the Life , and the Truth , behold , I beseech thee , to how many dangers of the World , Flesh , and Devil , I am subject , so that without thy aid , I cannot safely pass through this Vale of Misery . Lead , guide , and direct me therefore ( O Lord ) in the high and right way , whither I would go , Gen. 28. 20. that I turn neither to the right hand , or the left , nor become a Prey to mine Enemies . O Lord , thou hast a general care over thy Creatures , I therefore ( in this my Iourney ) commend unto thee my Soul and Body : Defend me from all perils , I beseech thee . O Lord , which didst send thy Angel , as a Companion , or Fellow-Traveller , with the Son of Tobias , Tob. 5. and didst preserve Abraham , and all other thy Servants , in their travels ; vouchsafe thy blessed Angel , to guide , and conduct me . Be thou my comfort in the way , and a defence in all dangers . Prosper the business which I go about , and make this enterprise successful to me . And grant , that my affairs being dispatched , I may return home safe in body and mind . Preserve ( in my absence ) my Family , and all I possess : that I being returned in safety , and they securely preserved , we may altogether give thanks to thy glorious Name , through Iesus , &c.

After a Iourney .

I Give thee thanks , O gracious Lord , for thy great mercies to me all the dayes of my Life . Thou art he , which created me , and thou art also he , that preservest that which thou hast created . How often , O Lord , hast thou turned thine eyes from my sins , and made as though thou didst not see them ? How often ( and that justly ) mightest thou have withheld thy hand of preservation from me ? And yet thy patience hath been so great towards me , that thou hast suffered no harm to befall me . And as I owe thee many thanks for thy former preservations , so now I am further obliged to thee , in that thou hast at this time not only guided me to the place whither I intended to go , but hast also brought me back in safety , and in my absence hast preserved all things unto me . Good Lord , give me grace , to be alwayes mindful of these , and all other thy benefits to me , and to be truly thankful to thee for them . And grant , that as by thy mercy I have well ended my affairs abroad , and am safely returned to this Temporal Habitation , so my Spirit ( after this Pilgrimage ) may return to thy Heavenly Mansion , and there abide with thee for ever : and that , even for the merits of our only Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ , Amen .

Intercession .

IN which we are to pray ,

For all Mankind , For the conversion of Iews , to the Truth . For the conversion of Turks , to the Truth . For the conversion of Heathen , to the Truth .

For all Christians .

That they may be strengthned , that stand .

That they may be converted , that are in errour .

For the Churches throughout the World , that they may be united in Religion .

For our Church , that whatsoever is amiss in it may be amended .

For the Kings Majesty , and his prosperity .

For all Kingdoms Christian.

For Ours , and each part of it , that it may flourish in peace .

For the Clergy : That they may Teach well . That they may Live well .

For Wisdom , in the Council .

Integrity , in the Iudges .

Strength , in our Armies .

Discretion , in the Magistrates .

Obedience , in the People .

For the prosperity , and good success ,

Of Merchants .

Husbandmen .

Artificers .

Trades-men

And that they may live carefully and honestly in their vocations .

For the prosperous Education of Youth , either in Universities , Schools , or Other parts of the Kingdom .

For our Parents , Kindred , Friends , Neighbours , and Benefactors .

For those of whom we have the charge committed to us , either in Church , Common-Wealth , or Families .

For our Enemies , especially those that hate us without cause , that God would convert them .

For those that commend themselves to our prayers : and those whose affairs and troubles will not suffer them to pray as they ought .

For those who are in affliction of body or mind .

Who are in danger , or want ; in Prison , or condemned to Death .

For those that Excell

In qualities of the mind ,

Strength of body ,

Abundance of wealth ,

That they exalt not themselves above their brethren .

For those who undertake any notable Action , which may redound

To the Glory of God .

The Peace of the Church .

The Honour of the Kingdom .

Deprecation . O Lord , rebuke me not in thy wrath . Psal. 38. ● . Cast me not off for ever . 44. 23. Cast me not away from thy presence . 51 11. Hide not thy face from me . 69. 18. With-hold not thy mercy from me . 40. 14. Forsake me not , O Lord . 38. 21. Put me not to shame . 119. 31. Psal. 39. Turn away reproach from me . 25. 2. Let not mine Enemies triumph over me . 27. 12. Deliver me not over to their will . 64. 1. Preserve my life from them . Deliver me , O Lord , Eph. 4.19 . From hardness of heart , to impenitence . Act. 28.27 Grossness of heart . Pro. 7.13 . Impudence of countenance , Esa. 48.4 . Hardness of countenance , Tit. 1.16 . From a seared conscience . 1 Joh. 5.16 A reprobate mind . Sin unto death , Mat. 12. 32. Viz. Against the Holy Ghost . From all superfluity of naughtiness . J● . 1. 21. The weight of sin . Heb. 12 1. The lusts of the flesh , and eyes , and pride of life . 1 Joh. 2.16 All wicked and vain desires . Hurtful and unclean thoughts . Mat. 6.2 . Desire of vain-glory . Ecclus. 51 From a deceitful tongue . 5. Unpure lips . Hands stretched out to covetousness . Feet swift to evil . Eyes open to Toyes . Ears open to Vanity . From blindness of heart . Inconstancy of mind . Scurrility of speech . Intemperance of the belly . From desire of riches . Reproach of my neighbours . Contempt of the poor . Oppression of the weak . Rancor of mind . Root out of me , O Lord . Prophaneness and Superstition . Pride and Undecency . Anger and Contention . Swearing and Cursing . Passion and Corruption . Fraud and Rapine . Lying and Slander . Envy and Malice . Take from me the Sin of Gluttony , Give to me the Vertue of Abstinence . Take from me the Spirit of Uncleanness , Give to me the Love of Chistity . Take from me the Desire of the World , Give to me Content of Mind . Take from me the Heat of Anger , Give to me the Spirit of Meekness . Take from me the Care of this Life , Give to me thy SPIRITUAL Ioy . Take from me Haughtiness of Mind , Give to me Compunction of Heart . Deliver me , O Lord , From all evil and mischief . All noysome Diseases . All things hurtful to My Soul . My Health . My Estate . My Quiet . From all Scandal . From all Grief . From all Infamy . From all Enemies , Secret , From all Enemies , Open , From all Enemies , Crafty , From all Enemies , Potent . From Sudden Death . From Violent Death . In all my Prayers , and Petitions . Distresses , and Dangers . Infirmities , and Need. Tentations , and Tribulations . Good Lord , deliver me , and help me . From the Terrors of Hell . Eternal Damnation . The angry Countenance of the Iudge . Apo. 6.6 . The fearful Sentence . Mat. 25. 41. Depart from me into Utter Darkness . 8. 12. The Chains of Everlasting Darkness . Jude 6. The Lake of Fire and Brimstone . Apo. 20. 10. The Smoke of the Torment which ascends for ever . 14. 11. Good Lord , of thy great mercy , deliver me .

In Affliction .

MOst merciful Redeemer ; always loving to us , whether thou sendest us heaviness , or joy , for thy mercy is great , whilst by outward afflictions ( as by bitter pills ) thou curest the inward diseased man , and by temporary troubles , thou preparest us , and makest us fit for joyes eternal . Grant , O sweet Saviour , that I may drink of this Cup of adversity , and all others , as reached to me by thy hand . Thou knowest , O Lord , that they are bitter to flesh and blood ; yet withall I know , that thou didst endure far greater things for me , and that I have deserved to suffer much more , than thou hast laid upon me . O Lord , thou knowest also the weakness and frailty of mans nature , and therefore I do assuredly believe , that thou ( the good Samaritan ) wilt not only cleanse the wounds of my sins , Luc. 10.33 with the sharp wine of thy justice , but wilt also add the oyl of thy mercy , and comfort , whereby I may be strengthned again . If thou thinkest not yet sufficient , or that enough , which thou hast laid upon me , yet add patience , I beseech thee , to my further grief : and grant , that that these thy punishments may provoke me to true repentance , whereby I may ( by thy merits ) obtain remission of my sins . But ( if thy Fatherly Clemency shall be contented with this gentle and mild chastisement ) take off thy corrections , and heavy hand from me : that so I may for both thy mercies to me , praise thy holy Name : as well , that thou hast so gently dealt with me , in amending me so unprofitable a Servant , as , that thou hast in time taken off the bitterness of affliction , and not utterly confounded me : in the first , of thy works of mercy , respecting my necessity ; and in the last , not forgetting my infirmity , To thee , O Saviour , with the Father , and Holy Spirit , be all Praise , Laud , and Glory , now , and evermore ; Amen .

In time of Pestilence .

O Lord God , who rejectest none , that , trusting in thy goodness , and believing in thy promises , come to thee for succour and help . Behold , we beseech thee , with the eyes of compassion and mercy , thy poor , sinful , and miserable people ; who now are much afflicted and visited with the Plague of Pestilence , with the scourge of thine angry hand . Our streets are full of grief , and our houses are filled with heaviness , and all our joy is turned into mourning , by reason of thy heavy wrath , and hot displeasure , which now is gone out , to destroy and consume us from the face of the Earth . We confess , O Lord , it is but just , that all thy Creatures should rebell against Man , and oppose themselves against him , who hath so desperately rebelled against thee , his Creator : For they are all obedient to thee , only Man , sinful and wretched Man , is continually stubborn and rebellious , daily abusing thy Blessings , and hourly transgressing thy Commandments , got leaving his evil wayes for fear of thy threats , nor being allured to goodness with the hope of thy promises . We daily hear by thy Messengers , and read in thy Sacred Word , what thou hast threatned of old to thy rebellious people , and in them , to us : How , that if they kept not thy Commandements , Levit. 26. 25. Thou wouldst send upon them the Sword , to avenge the quarrel of thy Covenant , and when they should be gathered in their Cities , thou wouldst send the Pestilence among them , Jer. 4.112 . and they should be delivered into the hands of the Enemy : And yet they have hitherto been so senseless thereof , that we fear not to add sin to sin , and to multiply iniquity upon iniquity . And now , O Lord , we reap the just reward of our impiety , and feel ( too soon ) that we are justly plagued for our disobedience . O Lord , we confess , Ps. 19.9 . that thy Iudgements are just , and withall humbly acknowledge our misdeeds , and heartily repent us of them , and earnestly beg and crave , that thou wouldest in mercy pardon them , and remit the punishment , which in Iustice is due unto us for them . O Lord , In thy just anger remember mercy ; encline thine ear , and hear , open thine eyes , and behold our desolations ; and upon our repentance and humiliation , remove this thy punishment : which in thy displeasure , thou hast begun to inflict upon us . 1 Chr. 21. 15. Command thy destroying Angel to spare us , and not to strike us to utter desolation . Ezech. 9. Be merciful unto us , who are every hour in danger of thy Iudgements , Take away the unwhilesomeness of the air , and purifie our dwellings unto health and safety . Keep those that are well , & release those upon whom thou hast laid the rod of thy afflictions . 2 Chro. 7. 13 , 14. Thou hast promised , O Lord , 1 Kings 8. That , if at any time thou sendest the Pestilence among the People , if that people do humble themselves , and pray , and seek thy presence , and turn from their wicked wayes ; thou wilt hear in Heaven , and be merciful to their sin , and heal their Land . We humbly pray thee , O Lord , to make good thy promise , and ease us of our afflictions . For behold , O Lord , we humble our selves under thy mighty hand ; we bewail , and lament our sinful lives past ; and humbly beseech thee , to give us thy assisting grace , that we may henceforth order our wayes to please thee , Then shall no Contagion hurt us , Dan. 19 8. but we shall live to praise thy Name ; and all the World shall know , that thou art our God , and that thy Name is called upon by us . Hear us , O Lord , and be merciful unto us , even for Iesus Christs sake the Righteous : To whom , with thee , and the Blessed Spirit , be ascribed all honour and praise , now , and for ever , Amen .

Confession of Faith .

FAith in general , is a full assent to all things written in the Holy Scriptures , concerning God , his Will , and Works : not for the evidence of them , but even for Gods assertion only .

Est sperantium substantia , cognitio corum quae non videntur ; & tunc est fides , quando expectatur in spe , quod in re nondum videtur , S. August .

Faith is the substance of things hoped for , and the evidence of things not seen . Heb. 11.1 . And this is Faith indeed , when a man expects that in hope , which in reality is not seen .

Si vides non est fides .

Faith in special , is a firm assent to the Gospel ; the sum whereof is contained in these three Propositions .

Joh. 3.16 1. That Salvation is to be had by Iesus Christ . Acts 4.12 . 2. That there is no other way of Salvation , but by the Name of Iesus Christ . 3. That there is no Salvation to be had by Iesus Christ , but upon those terms and conditions which are revealed in the Gospel . Heb. 5.9 .

Mar. 1.15 . He is the Author of Salvation to those that obey him .

Rp. Latim , Ser. 4 & 7 coram Rege This Faith therefore must be ushered by Repentance , and attended by good works .

Jam. 2.26 . Faith without works is dead ,

1 Cor. 13. It must not be abstracted , but concrete with Hope and Charity .

S. Aug. Sine Charitate fides potest esse , sed non & prodesse ; Faith may be without Love , but not to do any good . We may well have Faith in us , it is true , but little good it will do us , except we have Charity also .

For Saint Paul ( saying , that a man is justified by Faith without Works ) is not to be understood , that though he live ill , we should call him just , though he have received the Faith . S. Aug. Quomodo ergo justificabitur homo per fidem fine operibus , responderet tibi Apostolus . Propterea hoc tibi dixi ô homo , ne quasi de operibus tuis praesumere videaris , & merito operum tuorum accepisse fidei gratiam . Si fidem quis dicat se habere , opera tamen non habeat , numquid poterit fides salvare eum ? The Apostle will answer you , how a man may be justified by Faith without Works . And therefore , O Man , whatsoever I have said , it hath been , lest thou shouldst seem to presume upon thy Works , and by the merit of them , think thou hast received the grace of Faith . But how can that mans Faith save him , which professeth that he hath Faith , and yet hath no Works ?

If I had Faith to remove Mountains , and have no Love , I am nothing . 1 Cor. 13. 2.

1. This Faith is the Foundation of Gods Worship . No worshipping of God , till we are perswaded that there is one to worship .

Heb. 11.6 . He that cometh to God , must believe that he is .

2. It is the first Duty that God requireth of us .

1 Joh. 3 33 This is his Commandement , that we should believe .

Act. 16.31 Believe , and thou shalt be saved , was the first Rule that Saint Paul gave the Keeper of the Prison , upon his Conversion .

The people demanding of our Saviour , Joh. 6.29 . What they should do to work the works of God ? were answered with , That ye believe : as being the principal or first Degree to Salvation .

S. Greg. Non virtutibus venitur ad fidem , sed per fidem pertingitur ad virtutes .

We attain not to Faith by Vertue , but Vertue by Faith .

The Particulars of this Faith are contained in the Apostles Creed , so called , because , 1 , It containeth the sum of the Apostles Doctrine , which the Catecumeni were to hold and profess . 2. Or because the Apostles delivered it to their Disciples .

S. Aug. Ser. 181. de tempore . Symbolum fidei nostrae tali ratione institutum majores nostri dixerunt . Tradunt enim , &c. Ne localitur ab invicem discedentes , diversum vel dissonum praedicarent i is qui ad fidem Christi invitabantur : Omnes igitur in unune positi & Spiritu Sancto repleti , breve suae praedication is judicium conferendo in unum , quod sentiebat unusquisque , computabat , atque ha●c●ita credentibus dandam esse regulam instituerunt .

Our fore-Fathers tell us , that the Creed was made and composed by the Apostles at a meeting , before they were to be dispersed . And that , lest when they were separated , they might preach divers and several Doctrines of Faith to those whom they sought to win to the Faith of Christ . And therefore , being all assembled together , and filled with the Holy Ghost , they made a short and summary Collection of what they thought fit to preach , and appointed the same to be delivered to Believers , as a Rule and Foundation of their Faith .

Symbolum breve est verbis , sed magnum est Sacramentis .

And though it be short in words , yet is it great in Sacraments .

It is to be daily repeated and professed .

1. Because it is a mark whereby Christians are distinguished from Infidels .

2. It putteth us in mind of our daily tryal , whether we continue in the Faith or not ,

3. It incites us to pray , that we continue and increase in it .

4. It puts us in mind of our vow in Baptism , to believe in the Trinity .

Lord , I believe .

Help thou my unbelief .

In God the Father .

Wherein I consider , First , His personal Relation to his natural Son , Heb. 1. 5. and gracious affection to us in him .

That in Christ we are all his Sons by grace and adoption .

Joh. 1.12 . As many as received him , to them he gave power to become the Sons of God .

Rom. 1.16 . The Spirit beareth witness with out spirit , that we are the Sons of God .

Gal. 4. 6. No more a Servant , but a Son ,

Ephe. 1.5 . Having predestinated us unto the adoption of Children by Jesus Christ .

Almighty .

Secondly , His Saving Power .

That as he is a Father , willing to do us good , so he is Omnipatent , and able to do us good .

Even to your old age I am he , Esa. 46.4 . &c. I will bear , I will carry , and deliver you .

I am the Lord , and none else . 45.6 .

He is Lord over all . Ro. 10.12 .

Upholding all things . Heb. 1. 3.

Almighty . Gen. 17.1 . 43. 34.

Able to subdue all things unto himself . 2 Cor. 6. 18.

Maker of Heaven and Earth . Phil. 3.21 .

Thirdly , His Providence in disposing , preserving , and governing all things .

1. By the Word of the Lord were the Heavens made . Gen. 1.2 .

He laid the Foundations of the Earth . Psal. 33.6 . 104. 5.

Thou Lord , which hast made Heaven , and Earth , the Sea , and all that in them is . Act. 4. 24.

I form the Light , and create the Darkness . Esa. 45.7 .

He layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters . Ps. 104.3 .

The Spirit of the Lord hath made me , Job 33. 4. and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life .

Job . 38. 41. 2. He provideth for the Raven his food , &c.

Psal. 36.7 . Thou Lord shalt save both Man and Beast .

Psal. 8. They shall be satisfied with the plenteousness , &c.

Mar. 10. 39. Over Sparrows .

He careth for us .

1 Pet. 5 7. Act. 17.28 . In him we live , move , and have our being .

3. He ordereth the world according to equity . Sap. 9. 3.

Psal. 67.4 . He judgeth the folk righteously , and governeth the Nations upon the earth .

Sap. 4. Thy providence , O Father , governeth all things .

〈◊〉 81. He ordereth all things sweetly .

In Jesus . A Saviour .

He shall save his people from their sins . Mat. 1.21 .

Heb. 7. 25. Joh. 3.18 . He that beleeveth not in him is condemned .

Act. 4.12 . Neither is there Salvation in any other .

Act. 5.19 . By the obedience of one shall many be made righteous .

Christ . Annointed .

With the Oyl of gladness above his fellows . Psal. 45.8 . Heb. 1. 9.

The Lord hath annointed me . Esa. 61.1 .

His onely Son .

Of God the Father .

The only begotten of the Father . Joh. 1.14

His only begotten Son . Heb. 1. 2

Our Lord . Joh. 3.16 .

In right of 1 Creation . 2 Redemption .

1. By whom he made the World . Heb. 1. 2. By him were all things created . Col. 1. 17.

2. In whom we have redemption , Eph. 1 : 7. Redeemed with his precious Blood . Col. 1.14 . Bought with a price . 1 Pet. 1. 19.

Conceived by the Holy Ghost . 1 Co: 6. 20.

Without the help of Man , 7.23 . to help the uncleanness of our conception .

She was found with Child of the Holy Ghost . Mat. 1.18 . 20.

The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee , Luc. 1.35 . and the power of the most High shall overshadow thee .

Angelo nunciante , & Spiritu adveniente , S. Greg. mox verbum in utero , mox intraverbum Caro.

Upon the Annuntiation or message of an Angel , and the Overshadowing of the Holy Ghost , the word presently entred into the VVomb , and with the word the flesh .

Born of the Virgin Mary .

Made the Sonne of Man , that we might be the Sonnes of God .

To purge the uncleanness of our birth .

Esa. 7.14 . He did not abhor the Virgins womb .

Mat. 1.21 . A Virgin shall conceive .

Luc. 1.30 . She shall bring forth a Son .

Luc. 2. 7. And she brought forth her first born Son , &c.

Joh. 1.14 . The word was made flesh .

Gal. 4. 4. And when the fulness of time was come , God sent forth his Son made of a woman , &c.

S. Bern. S. Bernard saith , That God in the assumption of our nature , made three mixtures , so wonderfull without comparison , that never the like were , or should be to the end of the world . God and Man ; a Mother and a Virgin ; Faith and Mans heart .

Suffered under Pontius Pilate .

Those things which we should have suffered .

That we might not suffer them .

He powred out his soul unto death , &c. Esa. 53. 12

He bare our sins in his own body on the tree . 1 Pet. 2. 24.

He once suffered for sins . 3. 18.

Was Crucified .

To take away the Curse of the Law .

Christ hath redeemed us from the Curse of the Law , Gal. 3. 13 being made a Curse for us , as it is written .

Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree . Deut. 21. 23.

He humbled himself , Phil. 28. and became obedient to death , even the death of the Cross.

Dead .

To take away the sharpness and bondage of death .

To satisfie Gods justice for us .

The wages of sin is death . Rom. 6.23

That he by the grace of God should taste death for every one . Heb. 2. 9.

That through death he might destroy him that had the power of death , 14. that is , the Devil .

And deliver them , who through the fear of death , were all their life time subject to bondage .

1 Cor. 15. 55. O Death , where is thy sting ?

Buried .

To take away the corruption of the grave , that we might be assured of his death .

Mat. 27. 60. All agree that he was buried in a Sepulcher .

Mar. 15. 46. They took him from a Tree , and laid him in a Sepulcher . Lu. 23.53 .

Joh. 19.40 . Descended into Hell .

Act. 13.29 . Whither we ought to have gone , that we might not go thither at all .

Ps. 16.11 . Thou wilt not leave my Soul in Hell .

S. August . Non immerito creditur ; It is not without cause , Ep. 99. that we believe , saith Saint Augustine , upon this Article . And Christ , according to his Soul , was in Hell ; the Scripture is plain for it , being foretold by the Prophet David , and evidently expounded by the Apostles Application of ( that Text ) Ps. 16.11 . Thou wilt not leave my Soul in Hell . Acts 2.34 . And he concludeth peremptorily with this Question , Quis ergo nisi infidelis negaverit fuisse apud inferos Christum ? Who therefore but an Infidel will deny that Christ was in Hell ?

The third day he rose again from the dead . 1 Cor. 15. 20.

That he might raise with him our nature , Mar. 28.6 . Mar. 16.6 . being the first fruits of them which sleep . Luc. 24.4 .

He is risen , He is not here . Joh. 20.

Christ being raised from the dead , &c. Rom. 6. 3.

And was raised again for our justification . 4. 25.

By the Trinity .

1. By the Father , Acts 2. 24. 3. 15. 4. 10. 5. 30. 10. 40. Ephes. ● . 20. 1 Pet. 1. 21.

2. By the Son , Joh. 10. 17 , 18. Rom. 14.

3. By the Spirit , Rom. 8. 11. 1 Pet. 3. 18.

He ascended into Heaven .

To prepare us a place , whereto we had no right .

To assure us , that our flesh is gone before .

To send us the Holy Spirit .

He was received up into Heaven . Ma●. 16. 19.

He was parted from them , and carried up to Heaven . Lu. 24.51 .

We have a High Priest , Heb. 4.1 that is Passed into the Heavens .

Eph. 4 10. He that descended is the same which ascended , far above all Heavens .

Joh. 14.2 . I go to prepare a place for you .

Heb. 10. 19. Having boldness to enter into the Holiest by the blood of Iesus .

Eph. 2. 6. And hath raised us up together , and made us sit in Heavenly places together .

Joh. 14.16 I will pray the Father , and he shall give you another Comforter .

16. 7. If I go not away , the Comforter will not come to you ; but if I depart , I will send him to you .

He sitteth at the right hand of the Father .

Instantly to intercede for us , to shew himself head of the Church .

Mar. 16.9 . And sate at the right hand of the Father .

Col. 3.1 . Seek those things which are above , where Christ sitteth at the right hand of the Father .

Ro. 8.24 . Who is at the right hand of God .

Heb. 7.25 . 9.24 . He ever liveth to make intercession for them , to appear in the presence of God for us .

Joh. 14.3 . Where I am , there you may be also .

Eph. 5 23. CHRIST is Head of the Church .

He set him at his own right hand , Eph. 1.20 far above all principalities and powers .

He shall come to judge both the quick and dead .

To receive us with power & glory , Mat. 24. 30. even to the consummation of all things .

I will come near to you in judgement . Mal. 3. 5.

Behold the Lord cometh , &c. Jude 14.

The Father hath committed all judgement to the Son . Joh. 5.23 .

Ye shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of power , Mat. 26. 64. and coming in the clouds of Heaven .

He hath appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained . Act. 17.31 .

The dead shall arise first , &c. 1 Thes. 4. 16 , 17.

In the Holy Ghost . I consider

An hypostatical power sanctifying from above , Lu. 12.12 . quickning to immortality , Joh. 14.26 16. 13 working powerfully , and invisibly in us . 1 Cor. 6. 11.

By the illumination of knowledge . Esa. 11.2 .

Infusion of grace . 1 Joh. 2.27

Regenerating us . Joh. 3. 5. 16. 8.

Reprehending things evil in us . 1 Joh. 2.27

Teaching us the truth , Joh. 14. 26. Joh. 16.13 . 1 Cor. 2. 13.

Gen. 20.6 With-holding us from doing evil .

Rom. 8. 26 Encouraging us to do good , striving for our good .

Joh. 14. 16 Comforting us in our necessities .

Acts 9. 31. Adopting us .

Rom. 8. 15 26 Helping our infirmities .

2 Cor. 1.22 Sealing to us our inheritance .

Eph. 1.13 , 14. Assuring us our inheritance .

The Holy Catholique Church .

Which is the mystical Body of the Head Christ Iesus , composed of all people of the World , which are called by the Spirit , to the belief of Divine Truth , and Holiness of Conversation .

Holy .

By imitation of Christs Righteousness .

Sanctification of the Holy Ghost .

Of all these Members of his Body there is a reciprocal participation to the

Joh. 14.23 6. 55 , 56. Communion of Saints .

1 Joh. 1. 3. 7. In the union of the Church with Christ .

Ep. 4. 4. 12. In the participation of his benefits .

Forgiveness of sins . Rom. 8

For the present . 1 Cor. 1 30.

To the hope of

The Resurrection of the Body . Job . 19 25

To be united with the Soul . Joh. 5.28 6. 40.

And Life Everlasting .

hereafter . Lu 20.16 .

And that after this life there shall be a life wherein the Church shall be glorified , and God by the members thereof praised for ever . Joh. 16 22 17. 3. Apo. 21. 4.

Of which I believe my self to be one .

Lord , I believe . Help the defects of my Faith .

1. That I may love thee as a Father .

Reverence thee as Almighty .

Commend my self to thee , as to a Faithful Creator .

2. That I may be mindful to give thanks to Thy only Son .

As to the Purger of our Nature , in his Conception and Birth .

As to our Deliverer , In his Passion , Cross , and Death .

As to the Triumpher over Hell .

In his Descension .

Over Death , In his Resurrection .

As to our Fore-rnner , In his Ascension .

As to our Advocate , In his Session .

As to the Establisher of our Faith , In his Second Coming .

That he may be fashioned in me .

That I may be made conformable to him , In Works .

To his Conception , In Faith .

To his Nativity , In Humility .

That for his Passions ,

1. I may sympathize with him , as with one that suffered for me , and be ready to suffer of him , and for him , when it shall be his good pleasure .

2. I may have an Antipathy with Sin , as being the cause of his Sufferings , and be Revenged of Sin in my self . Crucifie Sin in my self . Morsifie Sin in my self . Bury Sin in my self .

3. I may conform my self ,

1. To his Descension into Hell .

By often descending thither in meditation .

2. To his Resurrection .

By rising to newness of life .

3. To his Ascension .

By savouring and seeking those things which are above , and nearer to my Salvation .

4. To his Iudgement .

By judging my self , lest I be condemned with the world .

That when I am cold in Prayer , and want any Spiritual Grace or Comfort , I may remember thy Session , and Intercession . And when I am fervent in any evil Affection or Concupiscence , I may not forget thy fearful and terrible Iudgement-Seat , and the sound of the last Trump .

That for thy only Son Christs sake , I may also receive thy Uiction , 1 Th. 5. 19 even thy Saving Grace , Eph. 4 30 the unspeakable Gift of the Holy Ghost , Act. 7. 51. and never extinguish , grieve , resist , or reproach it . Mat. 32.5 .

That so I may be called into thy Catholick Church , where I may be partaker of the Persons , Actions , Prayers ; and Examples of Saints .

To the assured belief of Remission of Sins .

To the hope of Resurrection , and Translation to Life Everlasting .

Luc. 17.6 . Lord increase my Faith , as a grain of mustard-seed . Mat. 17. 20.

Not Dead , Temporary , or Hypocritical .

1 Tim. 1. 5 But pure and unfeigned , most holy , lively , Eph. 3. 11. and working by charity . Jam. 2.26 .

Confession of Faith .

O Almighty , and Eternal Lord God , I poor , unworthy , and wretched sinner , am bold to renew that Covenant of Faith , which in my Baptism , I made unto thee . I believe and confess , that all those things which thy most beloved Son Christ Iesus did , suffered , and taught , while he was conversant in the Flesh , here upon the Earth , are most true , and certain . I profess that I believe all the Articles of the Apostles Creed , and the Holy Gospel of our Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ , which is preached through all the World . To this Faith I bind my self , and purpose ( Gods grace assisting me ) never to depart from it ; and acknowledge , that without believing thus , I cannot be saved . I am heartily glad , O Heavenly Father ) even in my Soul , and give thee all possible thanks , that into this Faith I was baptized : and doe most humbly pray thee , O Lord , that this Faith may not fail me , during this life , nor at the hour of death . And if I shall at any time hereafter , either by the temptation of the Devil , imperfection of my senses , pain of any disease , weakness , or any other means speak any thing , in any other manner , than shall be agreeable to this Faith , I renounce all such words , as none of mine ; and desire thee , O Lord , to forgive them ; and pray all those which shall hear them , ( if any such shall be ) to account them as none of mine . This I protest , thy Grace aiding me . To thee be all honour and praise , from this time forth , forevermore , Amen .

Confession of Gods Glory and Praise .

FOR his Great and wonderfull works . Gen. 1.

Ecclus 43 Of Creation . Psal. 145. Preservation . Rom. 1.20 Governance .

Joh. 17. 5. For his Goodness , Gen. 14.18 21. 33. The excellency of his Glory . Luc. 1.37 . His Highness . Gen. 18.4 . His Eternity , Jer. 23.24 . His Omnipotence . Psal. 13 9. His Omnipresence . Joh. 21.17 His Omniscience . 2 Ki. 8.29 .

Ro. 11.33 . The height of his Wisdom . Ps. 117.2 . His Truth . Mat. 24. 35. His Exquisite Iustice . Ps. 111.3 . His Great Mercy . 119. 156. His Plentifull Mercy . 130. 4. His Wonderfull Mercy . 17. 7. His Everlasting . Mercy .

13. 6. For his Promise of the Seed .

Gen. 3. 15 For Performance of that Promise .

For sending his only Sonne out of his bosome , to work the great work of our Redemption .

Eus. a. 7. In being born , in pure and humble manner .

In being conversant on earth , in painfull manner .

In suffering Death , Matthew Mark Luke John . in grievous manner .

For all that he did or suffered For us on Earth .

For all his comfortable Parables of mercy .

Of the Two Debtors . Mat. 18. 23. Of the Publican and Pharisee . Lu. 18 10 Of the lost Sheep . Luc. 15.4 . 8. Of the lost Groat . Of the Prodigal Son . Lu. 15.21 . Of those that were called at the eleventh hour . Mat. 20 9.

For his comfortable sayings of Mercy .

God sent not his Son into the world to condemn it . Joh. 3.17 .

I came not to judge the World , but to save it . 12. 47.

The Son of Man came not to destroy mens lives , but to save them . Luc. 9. 36.

I am not sent to call the righteous , but sinners to repentance . Luc. 5. 32. Mat. 9.13 18. 11.

The Son of Man came to save , and seek that which was lost . Luc. 19.10

Come unto me all ye that labour , &c. Mat. 11.8 .

Him that cometh to me , I will in no wise cast out . Joh. 6.37 .

Lu. 23. 74 Father , forgive them , &c.

Luc. 43. This day shalt thou be with me in Paradise .

For his Examples of Mercy . Mat. 15. 28. The Woman of Canaan . Joh. 4. The Woman of Samaria . Luc. 8.48 . The Woman with the Bloody Issue . Joh. 8 11. The Woman taken in Adultery . Luc. 7 48. 19. 5. Mary Magdalen . 23. 43. Zacheus . 21. 62. The Thief . Acts 9. Peter . Heb. 12 3. Paul . Luc. 4 29. Sinners contradicting him . Joh. 8.19 . That would have destroyed him . 10. 31. That stoned him . Mat. 27. 39. That reviled and blasphemed him . Lu. 23 34. That crucified him . Act. 2.23 . 3. 15. 19. This man receiveth Sinners .

Luc. 15 2. For the Holy Spirit .

In the Old Testament .

Gen. 1. 21. By moving on the waters .

By sending it into living creatures .

By inspiring it into man .

By descending on the Prophets .

In the New Testament visibly .

In the shape of a Dove at Christs Baptisme . Mat. 3.16 .

By the gift of Christ to the Apostles . Joh. 20 22

In the shape of fiery tongues to them . Acts 2. 3.

Invisibly .

In the Virgins Conception of Christ . Luc. 1. 15.

Upon the Congregation in prayer . Act. 4.31 .

Cornelius , and others . Act. 10 44 19. 6. The twelve Disciples at Ephesus . Joh. 14.26 16. 14.

For his care over us . Lu. 12.12 .

For the illumination of our understanding . 1 Joh. 1.27

In our justification . 1 Cor. 6.11

Our Regeneration . Joh. 3 5. Governing our actions . Gil. 5.22 . Comforting us in Tentations . Ps. 43.10 . Strengthning us in Tentations . Acts 2. 4. Rom. 8. 14

Bearing witness with us , Joh. 14. 16 20. and assuring us , that we are Gods Children . Ephes. 3. 13 , 14. Rom. 5.5 . 8. 26

Reproving us in evil actions . Acts. 9.31

Assisting us in good works . Rom. 8.1 . Joh. 16.8 .

Putting good things into our remembrance . Rom. 8.26 Joh. 11.26

Interceding for us with groans unutterable . Rom. 6.10

Motives to Repentance .

S. August , NE erubescat poenitentiam agere , qui non erubuit poenitenda committere ,

BLush not thou to repent , that wert not ashamed to commit things worthy to be repented of .

For as much as it is beyond the compass , and out of the power of natural man not to sin at all , but that we adde dayly sin to sin , as a Fountain casting up her waters ; Ps. 69 27. Jer. 6. 7. and that it hath pleased God ( of his mercy to mankind ) to promise forgiveness to those that shall truly and faithfully repent them of the same . Therefore the duty of Repentance ( of all other parts of Devotion ) is most necessary for us , seeing that by it

God in Christ Iesus is reconciled to us .

His anger toward us is appeased .

We are restored to his favour .

Certainly it is a blessed act to confess our own wretchedness , for whosoever humbleth himself , and penitently bewaileth his sins , shall be heard by God , and by him be delivered from the punishment due for them .

A contrite heart suffereth no repulse . Origen .

Repentance is a bewailing for sins S. Greg. already committed , and avoiding for the future the sins for which we grieve : for he that mourns for his sins , and leaves them not , incurrs the greater punishment .

It consisteth not in the often repetition and confession of them , S. August . without forsaking them ; for that is but a simple profession of them , not a repenting for them .

But this is true Repentance , when those things seem grievous and bitter to our souls , which in the act were sweet and delightfull : and when that ill which was formerly pleasing to us , causeth a hearty and unfeigned grief in us , and provoketh us to look more carefully to our wayes for the future .

Vera peccati confessio est sine intermissione temporis peonitere . S. Hilary . Peccati verò poenitentia est , ab eo quod poenitendum intellexeris distitisse .

It is a true confession of sin , when we repent without intermission . But that is a true repentance of sin , when we forsake that , which we conceive we had cause to repent for .

And again , Nultus id quod confessus est , deinceps debet admittere , quia confessio peccati , est professio desinendi .

No man ought to commit again the same sin of which he confessed , because there is no true confession of sin , without a profession to leave the same .

And this is the fruit of Repentance ( as St. Iohn the Baptist calleth it ) to lament for sins past , and utterly forsake them for the time to come . Therefore saith one well , Agere poenitentiam nihil aliud est , quàm profiteri & affirmare se non ulter us peccaturum .

To repent truly , is nothing else , but to profess and promise , never to offend again .

Seeing then what Repentance is , let us take a view how necessary it is , and for what respects .

1. In regard of Gods hate to sin , and of that God whom we offend , who being infinite , requireth infinite satisfaction .

2. In regard of our Selves : Tertul. Hominos sumus ad poenitentiam nati : We are Men , and subject to fall , and therefore ( upon the matter ) we are born to repent us of our sins , that we may prevent Gods Iudgements in this world , ( of all which hath formerly been treated ) to escape his Iudgement in the world to come , Eternal Death .

For as Men we shall dye , and as Christians we shall give an account .

To say somewhat of this Death , for by it we shall pass to the other , except Repentance , and Gods mercies prevent it .

1. Death is Certain , it will come .

2. It is Universal or General , none shall escape it .

3. It is Terrible , especially to the wicked .

1. It is appointed for all men to dye .

S. Hierome calleth it , Irrecusabilis mort is necessitas .

The necessity of dying is not to be avoyded .

S. August . saith , That all things in this life are uncertain , but death ; and Natus es ? certum est quia morieris .

Art thou born ? as certain it is thou shalt die .

Anaxag . It was the saying of the Heathen Philosopher , Sciebam me genuisse mortalem , I knew I had begotten no other than a mortal man , hearing of his Sons death .

This point , and the certainty of it ; is easily proved by experience of Former ages , Our own time .

The longest liver , Methusalah , died ; Ge. 49 29 The Patriarchs , Prophets , &c. died , Jud. 2.10 . and were gathered to their Fathers . Ezr. 3.16 .

Where are the Princes of the Heathen become , &c.

They are vanquished , and gone down to the grave .

2. And as it is certain , so it is universal .

Job 30.23 It is the house appointed for all the living .

Ps. 89.47 . What man is he that liveth and shall not see death .

Eccles. 2. 16. As well the Wise man as the Fool.

Ecclus. 40 11. All things that are of the Earth shall turn to Earth again .

Gen. 3. 19 Thou art dust ( saith God to Adam , and in him to all Mankind ) and to dust shalt return .

It is the Ordinance of the Lord over all flesh . Ecclus. 41. 3.

But though it be certain in it self , yet in respect of the time and manner , it is uncertain .

For which cause our Saviour gave his Disciples counsel to be prepared for it .

Watch , for ye know not the day nor hour . Mat. 24. 13.

Be prepared , Lu. 12.40 . for the Son of Man will come at an hour when ye think not , like a thief in the night .

The time of our departure is uncertain , whether it shall happen in our infancy , child-hood , youth , or age .

All men live not while they are old , all men dye not while they are young .

And many times Death cometh unexpectedly , suddenly , in our greatest security .

Dies aderit cum vives manè , vesperi autem non vives .

There will come a day , when thou shalt be alive in the morning , and dead before night .

God hath hid from us the certainty of our end , lest we should promise to our selves any thing for the future .

And as the time , so the manner is uncertain .

Some dye in their beds ,

Others perish by fire , sword , water , &c.

We have but one way to enter into this world , divers to depart from it .

3. In it self it is also terrible .

Aristotle . Cicero . Omnium terribilium , terribilissimum Mors.

Of all terrible things , Death is most dreadful .

Mar. 14. 34. Our Saviour Christ began to be heavy , &c.

But to mankind in divers respects it is terrible .

All occasioned by the Devils malice .

Either he bringeth the parties dying , 1. Into despair and fear , for Gods Judgements . 2. Into security , for their own Merits . 3. Into impatience . by anguish of their sickness . 4. Into infidelity , by causing a mistrust in Gods mercies . 5. Into worldy cogitations , about leaving and disposing of their worldly estate . Or , 6. Vain hope , to recover their former health .

Dura mente abesse mors longè creditur , etiam dum sentitur .

To a heart that is hardned , Death is thought to be farthest off , even when it is felt to approach .

The Devil is come down to you , Apo. 12. 12. which hath great wrath , knowing that he hath but a short time .

Thus much for the temporal death , the continual remembrance whereof is so necessary , as nothing more .

Nemo memoriam mortis habens potest peccare .

He that thinketh continually that he must dye , doth not easily sin .

2. But to speak more properly , Death in it self were not terrible , nor evil , but a passage from this life to a better , a rest from our labours , were it not for the Accompt which is to be given of our life past , and the Iudgement which dependeth on it , and followeth it .

For to fall into the hands of the living God , ( in the worst sense , that is , to hear his heavy sentence pronounced against our sins ) is a fearful thing .

The thought of this made the holy man Iob himself to cry , O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave , that thou wouldest keep me secret until thy wrath be past . Job 14.13

The terror of it is so great , that if we seriously consider it , Our flesh would scarce cleave to our bones . Ps. 102.7 .

S. Hier. Quoties diem illum confidero , tolo corpore contremisco : sive enim comedo , sive bibo , sive aliquid aliud facio , semper videtur mihi tuba illa terribilis insonare in auribus , surgite mortui , venite ad judicium .

As often as I seriously consider of the day of death , I tremble all my body over : for whether I eat or drink , or whatsoever else I do , me-thinks that terrible Trump sounds in mine ears , Arise ye dead , and come to judgement .

Gods judgements are fearful , as they are sometimes executed in this world .

Gen. 3. Our first Parents ( for their sin ) were expelled Paradise . Deprived of Original Righteousness . Made lyable to Condemnation , and became Children of wrath .

Subject to divers miseries , and labours .

He spared not the Angels that sinned , but cast them down to Hell , &c. 2 Pet. 2 42

How did he sweep away ( as it were ) the Sons of Men from the face of the Earth by the Deluge ? Gen. 7.

How did he destroy Sodom and Gomorrah ?

Did not the Egyptians miserably perish in the Red Sea ? Exod. 14.

What Vengeance did he take on the Israelites for worshipping the Golden Calf , Num. 16. and for murmuring against Moses ?

The Scriptures are plentiful in this kind .

But yet these judgements are not to be paralleled with those after Death .

In respect of God , Omnipotent Highly Offended . Justly Punishing . Iust Highly Offended . Justly Punishing . Wise Highly Offended . Justly Punishing . Good Highly Offended . Justly Punishing .

In respect of Man , Weak Offending his Creator . Suffering just Punishment . Sinful Offending his Creator . Suffering just Punishment . Wretched Offending his Creator . Suffering just Punishment .

In respect of the Sentence it self , which inflicts a punishment ; sensible for the pain and misery felt , and prejudicious for the glory lost .

1. He being Omnipotent , will be able to execute his vengeance on his Enemies , neither shall any deliver them from him .

Job 9. 3. He is mighty in strength , who hath resisted him , and prospered .

36. 22 : He is exalted by his power , no Law-giver like him .

In making Laws just and holy .

In exacting the due execution of them .

In power to punish the breakers of them .

Jer. 5. 20. Fear ye not me , will ye not tremble at my presence ?

Mat. 10 : 28. Fear him who is able to destroy both body and soul.

Deut. 32. 41. If he whet his glittering sword , and his hand take hold on judgement ,

Ps. 130.3 . Who is able to abide it ?

2 Mac. 6. 26. Though we be delivered from the judgement of Man , yet we cannot escape the hand of the Almighty .

His Courts are so high , so transcendent , and his Iudgements so definitive , that no appeal lyeth from them .

We must rest upon his doom , and go no further .

2. Being Iust , he will punish the Breakers of his Commandements : For though he be merciful , in abundant measure , to pardon the iniquities of penitent transgressors ; yet he is just also to punish the wickedness of obstinate Malefactors .

Multus ad ignoscendum , S. Bern. multus ad ulcìscendum .

As he is plentiful in pardon , and forgiveness , so is he as plentiful in revenge .

He hateth sinners , and will repay vengeance to the ungodly . Ecclus. 12 6.

He neither perverteth Iudgement , Job 8. 3. nor subverteth Iustice .

Nullum bonum irre●●u eratum , nullum malum impunium .

Quanquam Sera , tamen certa Numiuis vindicta .

Lento gradu ad vindictam sui divira proceditira , Val. Mat. & tarditatem supplicii gravitate compensat .

Nemo impunè malus .

There shall no good act go unrewarded , nor any evil unpunished .

For though God be slow , yet he is sure in his revenge .

God ballanceth his slow proceeding in anger , with the grievousness of his punishment . We know , that a Bow , the farther drawn , shoots farthest . And this we must hold for a firm Maxime and Conclusion , that Nemo impunè malus . There shall no wicked man escape unpunished .

God will neither be made flexible by favour , nor corrupt by gifts .

Pro. 11.4 . Riches profit not in the day of wrath .

Ecclus. 5. 4. And therefore say not , I have sinned , what harm hath happened to me ?

For though God be long suffering , he will in no wise let thee go unpunished .

Concerning propitiation , be not without fear , to add sin to sin .

And say not , His mercy is great , he will be pacified for the multitude of my sins ; for mercy and wrath come from him , and his indignation resteth upon sinners .

We must all appear before his Tribunal , and receive according to the thing which every one hath done .

His Sentence will be so Iust , that though in this World we may say , Veniet qui malè judicata rejudicabit dies .

The day will come , when there will be a re-view of things ill carried .

Yet in the case between God and Man then , it will not be not be so .

3. Being Wise , Omniscient .

Nothing is hid from his all-seeing eyes .

He beholdeth all our actions .

He is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart . Heb. 4.12 .

All things are naked and open to his eyes . 13.

He knoweth our thoughts long before , our manifold transgressions , and our mighty sins .

Therefore no hope of Evasion , by hiding any thing from him .

4. Being Good , He will expect our Thankfulness .

He hath ever been gracious to us ; heaped many benefits on us : And by how much the more beneficial he hath been to us , the longer expected our conversion , and the oftner admonished us : by so much the more rigorously will he deal with us for neglecting these benefits .

Unto whom much is given , Lu. 12.48 . of him much shall be required .

An accompt will be exacted of our Talents received . Mat. 25.

Every man shall be rewarded according to his works .

He will exact an accompt from us .

How we have used the Body and Soul given unto us .

How we have employed our Natural Gifts , Temporal Blessings , and the rest , The signes of his Goodness to us .

Job 9. 3. And can we answer one for a thousand .

Our Iudgement therefore the greater for abusing his Goodness .

Again , If we consider this Iudgement in respect of the Parties lyable to it , we shall have greater cause to betake our selves to a more serious consideration of our estates .

1. In regard of the Nature and condition of Man .

Job . 14 2. A flower .

Ps. 89 47. Of short continuance .

13. 25. A leaf .

Job . 13.25 . Dry stabble .

7. 7. His substance but dust .

14. 2. His life but a wind , a shadow of no continuance .

Format us de terra .

Conceptus in culpa .

Natus ad poenam .

Made of earth .

Conceived in sin .

Born to suffer punishment .

In regard that he is sinful and wretched . 2 , 3.

Composed of vanity .

Every man living altogether vanity . Ps. 63. 4.

Lighter than vanity .

Shaped in wickedness .

Conceived in sin . Ps. 51. 5.

Born in uncleanness . Job . 14.

A child of wrath . Eph. 2. 3.

A vessel of perdition , Esa. 64.6 . dishonour .

Unclean like a silthy clout . Job 15.16 . 53.6 .

Drinking iniquity like water .

All have erred .

Agunt mala quae non licent , vana quae non expediunt .

Faciles ad seducendum . S. Bern.

Debiles ad operandum .

Fragiles ad resistendum .

They do evil , which is unlawful , and are vain , which is not meet , Easie to deceive , Weak to work , Frail to resist .

So that our entrance into the world is miserable .

Conversation in it Culpable .

Dissolution from it Damnable .

The Consideration of this unworthiness hath terrified all the Saints and Servants of God , lest they should fall under this judgement .

Job 7. 20. I have sinned , what shall I doe ? saith Iob.

9. 14. How shall I answer ?

Psal. 6. O Lord , correct me not in thine indignation , saith David .

Jer. 10.24 . Correct me , O Lord , but yet not in thy fury , lest I be brought to nothing , saith Ieremy .

In respect of the sentence it self , which will be to the good . Venite Benedicti , Come ye blessed : to the bad , Mat. 25. 34 , 41. Discedite Maledicti , Depart ye cursed , which last sentence is terrible .

1. They are cast into eternal torments , a punishment sensible for the pain and misery felt .

2. They are deprived of the Beatifical vision of God , a punishment prejudicial for the Glory lost .

The first is terrible .

1. In regard of the Suddenness and Horrour .

At the time of the Iudges appearance .

Ps. 50. 3. A consuming fire shall goe before him , and a mighty tempest shall be stirred up about him .

Their visitation shall be in Thunder , Earthquake and great noise , storm and Tempests , and the flame of devouring fire . Esa. 29.6 .

The day of the Lord is very terrible , who may abide it .

A day of wrath , Joel 2.11 . a day of trouble and distress , &c.

It shall burn as an Oven , Zeph. 1. 15. and the proud , and all that do wickedly shall be stubble . Mal. 4. 1.

They shall behold

Above them , The Angry Iudge disdaining them .

Under them , The Horrible Pit gaping for them .

Within them , The Worm of Conscience gnawing them .

About them , The World burning .

Near to them , The Devils accusing them .

Whither then shall a sinner flee .

It is impossible to be hidden , and insufferable to abide .

If it were terrible for the Israelites to hear Gods voice delivered by an Angel , who brought no ill news .

Insomuch as they said ,

If we hear the voice of the Lord our God any more , Deut. 5. 25. 27. we shall die .

And to Moses .

Ex. 20.19 . Talk thou with us , let not God , lest we die .

What will it be for sinners to hear the Iudge pronounce this heavy sentence , Discedite Maledicti .

2. In regard of the Accusers .

2 2 Job . 20 67 1. The Heaven , and the Earth .

Mal. 3. 14 2. Christ as Iudge .

Jer. 29.23 . Witness .

Ps. 50.21 . I will reprove thee , and set before thee the things that thou hast done .

Nah. 3 5. I will shew thy filthiness .

Mat. 25. 42. I was hungry , and ye gave me no meat , &c.

3. The Angels ; Their attendants in this life ,

4. The Devils ; who attend them for future torments .

Apo. 20.12 5. The Books of their Consciences .

Dan. 7.10 . Thine own wickedness shall correct thee , Jer. 3 19. and thy turnings back shall reprove thee .

6. The Creatures , whom they have abused .

Ja. 5. 1. Consider this , lest ye howl and weep in your misery .

3 3 Jude 6. In regard of the intollerable paines which follow the Sentence . Esa. 66.24

Mar. 9.44 . 1. Everlasting Chains of Darkness .

Vermis corum non morietur . Judith 16 17.

They shall weep for ever .

2. Sharp .

Beyond the Fornace seven times heated . Dan. 3.

3. Various , of divers sorts .

According to the diversity of sinners offences .

4. Stinking .

In the Lake which burneth with fire and brimstone . Apo. 21.7 .

5. Affrighting .

Tormented by Devils .

6. In Bonds , not able to stir .

Bind him hand and foot . Mat. 12. 23.

Held with Cords of his own sin .

Bind the Tares , Pro. 5 22. &c.

Gathered as Prisoners into a pit . Mat. 13. 30.

Chains of darkness . Esa. 24 25.

7. In horrid darkness . Jude 6.

Prefigured by that of AEgypt . Exo 12 ,

A Land of darkness . Job 10. 22

8. With Company detestable .

In regard that Hell is a Place of no Order . 4 4 Job . 10 , 14 Esa. 5. 14.

Dilatavit Infernus animam suam , & aperuit os suum absque ullo termino .

Hell hath enlarged it self , and hath opened his mouth without measure .

Of no Rest , or Comfort .

But cries , vexation , weeping , and gnashing of teeth .

Not a drop of cool water to the thirsty .

Continual mourning , sorrow , without intermission .

Hugo Plexus ardore incomparabili , dolore innumerabili , & poena interminabili .

Full of incomparable heat , innumerable sorrowes . and endless punishments .

This for Poena sensus , or the Pain and misery felt .

Now for the Glory and Happiness lost , which is usually called Poena Damni .

The Loss of Heavens joyes .

The deprivation of sinners from Gods sight .

Than which nothing more miserable .

The Excellency of Heaven ( the place of Gods rest ) may be conjectured at ,

By the End for which it was made .

1. The glory of God here , above other places .

Ps. 19. 1. The Heavens declare the Glory of God , and the firmament his handy-work .

2. The Happiness of the Elect.

Abraham , Isaac and Iacob . Lu. 13 28.

Blessed are they which dwell here . Ps. 84. 4.

They shall be satisfied ( inebriebuntur ) with the plenty of Gods house .

This Happiness we may also value .

By the Price it cost to regain it when it was lost .

The Pains which Martyrs endured to attain it .

The Testimonies of the Prophets , &c.

The Excellency of Heaven may be imagined

By the Discription of it .

It needs no Sun or Moon to enlighten it , for the glory of God makes it bright .

The Lamb is the light thereof .

No Night there . Apo. 21. 23.

Here is that Beatifical Vision which the Fathers and Holy men so desired , and rejoyced in .

Mine Eyes have seen thy Salvation . Luc. 2.29 .

I shall be satisfied with thine Image . Ps. 17.15 ,

Shew the light of thy Countenance , and we shall be safe . Ps. 17. 6. 80. 7.

If I have found grace in thy sight ( saith Moses ) shew me thy face . Exod. 33 :

If thou desire pleasure .

Here is pleasure for evermore .

If honour ,

Ps. 16.12 . 149. 9. Such honour have all his Saints .

If good company ,

God , and all the Elect.

If musick ,

A quire of Angels continually praising God with their melodious songs .

To conclude , here is abundance of all things , want of nothing .

S. Aug. Wherefore , Si credimus futurum Iudicium , bene vivamus , ne malè moriamur .

Maxima poena , metum perdidisse judicii :

If we believe there will be a Judgement hereafter , let us live well , lest we dye in an ill case .

It is the sign of a seared Conscience ( and that is the greatest punishment can befall a man ) to have lost the fear of the last Iudgement .

Lay all these together . That all men are sinners .

God hateth sin .

It standeth us upon to prevent Gods wrath .

In respect of the Iudgement of this World , Temporal , and of the World to come , Eternal .

That it will be heavy in regard of the Omnipotence of the Iudge . Iustice of the Iudge . Omniscience of the Iudge . Goodness of the Iudge . The Weakness of Man . The Imperfection of Man . The Misery of Man .

The Sentence which makes the wicked lyable to the sense of pain , and loss of good .

And finding that there is an unevitable necessity to repent .

Why defer we to use the means by which we may be made clean , our sins may be pardoned , and taken off .

A wise Traveller takes the day before him .

And a wise Builder the year before him .

Optimè fit quod suo tempore fit .

Stultus semper incipit vivere .

It is best done , that is done timely .

A Fool alway begins to live .

For who hath promised thee time to repent

How many have been deceived with this vain hope ?

The Wise Man giveth this Rule .

Eccles. 11. 10. Whatsoever good thing thy hand findeth to do , do it instantly , with thy might , for there is no work , &c. in the Grave .

Ecclus. 5. 7. Make no tarrying to turn to the Lord , and put not off from day to day : For suddenly shall the wrath of the Lord come forth , and in thy security thou shalt be destroyed .

S. August . Indulgentiam Deus tibi promisit , crastinum diem nemo promisit . Si male vixisti , bene vive , jam hodiè .

And , Propter illos qui desperatione periclitantur , proposuit Deus indulgentiae portum . Propter illos qui spe periclitantur & dilationibus illuduntur fecit diem mortis incertum . Quando venit ultimus dies nescis . Ingratus es qui hodiernum habes , in quo corrigaris .

And again , Qui ab iniquitatibus suis recedere negliguut , & sibi de Deo indulgentiam repromittunt , nonnunquam ita praeveniuntur , Dei furore , ut net conversionis tempus , nec beneficium remissionis inveniant .

God hath promised the pardon , it is true ; but no man hath promised , or cen , that thou shalt live while tomorrow . If thou hast formerly lived ill , live well to day .

God hath been so propitious to Mankind , that for the comfort of them that are ready to perish in the Sea of desparation , he hath a Haven of mercy and pardon . And for their sakes that are illuded with hope , and delay their repentance , he hath made the day of death uncertain . Seeing thou knowest not when the last day will come , thou art an unthankful man , if thou makest not good use by repentance , of this day which God hath given thee .

They which are careless to depart from iniquity , and flatter themselves with the hope of Gods pardon , are many times so prevented by the anger of God , as they neither find time to convert , nor the benefit of his pardon .

God hath reserved to himself the preheminence of lengthning aud shortning our dayes .

The rich man promised himself ease and rest for many years , Luc. 22. but one night brought a period to his supposed felicity .

Saint Ierome saith , That men are worthily taken in the snare of Judgement , as fish with a hook , or birds in a net ; and therefore gives this counsel .

Quia didicisti quòd omnia morte finiuntur , & in inferno non sit poenitentia , nec aliquis ad virtutes recursus : dum in ipso saeculo es festina , contende age poenitentiam , &c.

Seeing thou hast learn'd that death brings an end to all things , and that there 's no repentance in Hell , nor any recourse to vertue ; make hast while thou livest , strive and labour , do penance , &c.

But admit that thou hadst the priviledge to know thine own end .

Thinkest thou , that it will be easier to repent hereafter , than presently .

No certainly ;

For the longer thou detractest , the harder the task of repentance .

1. In respect of the habit , Custom is another nature . S. Bern. Cum aliquid in habitum abierit , difficulter expellitur ,

S. August . Dum servitur libidini , fit consuetudo , & dum consuetudini non resistitur , fit necessitas .

When a thing hath once got a habit , it is hardly expelled .

While we serve and feed our lust , custom steals upon us , and not resisting custom , we are necessitated to it .

Therefore he gives this admonition .

As no man is to despair of Gods mercy , yet he is not so to presume , but that without delay he reconcile himself to God , lest he fall into such a custom of sinning , that when he would , he be not able to get out of the Devils snares .

2. Because the farther we plunge our selves into sin , the farther God is from us .

Woe unto them that have fled from me . Hos. 7.13 .

God will cast them off . 9. 17.

3. For the ground the Devil gets of us .

He is like the strong man which overcometh the weaker . Lu. 11.22

4. For the corruptions of the Soul .

The longer we sin , the obscurer the understanding .

The weaker the Will , the more disordered the desires .

Who then is so void of understanding or reason , that will think he can repent , after many years , when his sins are multiplyed , and grown into a habit , and that God is farther from us ?

When the Devil encroacheth on us , and our faculties are corrupted ; And cannot doe it in his better strength .

That sins encreasing , the pardon will be easilier obtained for them .

That the infirmity prevailing , the medicine will cure the easilier , knowing that Languor prolixior gravat medicum , brevem languorem recidit medicus .

A long sickness or languishing disease puts the Physician to his Books , while a short grief is soon cured by him .

Who can carry a great burden in his age , that groans under a little weight in his chief strength ?

It was a harder and more difficult act in mans consideration , to revive Lazarus being four dayes in the grave , Joh. 11. than the Rulers daughter newly dead . Luk. 8.49 .

Grant that thou canst repent in thine age .

1. Yet consider the time lost , which might have been spent in doing good , and avoiding evil .

Why spendest thou thy time in sowing that , of which thou shalt reap nought but tears .

The heathen man could say ,

Hee that desires to doe good while he is old , Seneca . makes a plain demonstration , that he hath no mind to goodness , till that time which is unfit for all things .

And it is too late to begin to live , when we are ready to dye .

S. Gregory saith , That he is little better than an Infidel , that forbeareth to repent till he is old . And it is to be feared , that while such a one hopeth for mercy , he shall fall into judgement .

Can the infinite Majesty of God offended , be satisfied with a little , a small repentance ?

If thou canst not satisfie him for the sins of a day , why heapest thou the sins of many years , and protractest to give satisfaction till thine age .

If thou hast gathered nothing in thy youth , how canst thou find any thing in thine age . Ecclus. 25. 3.

2. Besides Repentance is the gift of God , to whom he pleaseth , and when .

Every one ought to fear that it will not be given him at the hour of death , and is therefore to work out his salvation in the time of his life , with fear and trembling . Phil. 2. 12

Saint Augustine saith , That seldom or never a full conversion is seen in the end of a mans dayes , and that much doubt may be made of a late penitent .

Of him that repents at the last gasp , and is reconciled ( that is , by the Minister ) to God , I am not certain whether he be secure or not .

Saint Augustine is not confident of his salvation , though he be absolved by the Priest .

Therefore let every one that would be out of doubt , repent while he is lusty and strong , and in his perfect health ; for he that hath lived ill all his life , and repenteth not till the last , is certainly in great danger .

Wilt thou be secure ( say two Fathers ? ) wilt thou avoid all doubt ? S. Ambr. Repent while thou art well . S. Aug. And why art thou then secure ? Because thou repentest , when thou mightest have sinned .

3. There are many impediments in age and sickness .

Men are then troubled with many infirmities .

Cumbred with many affairs .

Grieved with many thoughts , for wife and children , estate and pleasure to be left .

And what kind of penitence can be expected from man in this estate ?

Poenitentia quae fit in extremis , raro vera est , ob magnam difficultaetem in hoc articulo . It is seldom true , being deferred till our end .

1. For the great perturbations arising by the extremity of sorrow , anguish , thought of death , all most violent in a dying man .

They suffer him to think of nothing but that with which he is vexed .

2. True repentance ought to be voluntary , not of necessity .

And a dying man is forced .

Like to that of Shimei to David .

Like to that of Mariners in a storm . 2 Sam. 19. 19.

3. If he thinks not of it himself , ( as it is very doubtful ) his Friends seldom or never send for those who should put him in mind of it , till it be too late , till he be past all sense of it ,

And this is a just punishment , saith S. Gregory , for not thinking on God while he was in ability to do it , S. Greg. So that one negligence is punished with another .

Lastly , let not the examples of a sew cause protraction in thee .

For though God forbare his threatned judgements on the Ninivites , it was for their forty dayes repentance .

And if thou canst repent forty dayes as they did , thou hast the better hope .

And though the Thief ( in articulo mortis , ready to dye ) was saved ; Yet this example ought not to give liberty to any , to defer so long .

Besides , his salvation was no less admirable than any other of Christs miracles .

And his conversion no less wonderful than his salvation .

For when Christs own Disciples had denied and forsaken him ,

The Thief confessed him .

S. Aug. Credidit Reus , quod negavit Electus .

But trust to thy timely preparations by the example of the Wise Virgins . Mat. 25.

And consider and think of thine own estate while thou hast time .

Eccles. 12. Make no tarrying to turn to the Lord , and put not off from day to day ; for suddenly shall the wrath of God come forth , and in thy security thou shalt be destroyed .

Remember thy Creator in the dayes of thy youth , while the evil dayes come not .

Defer not Repentance unto years unapt , testy , weak , when sin leaveth thee , and not thou it .

Now the time is , when thou mayst find the Iudge propitious .

Seek the Lord while he may be found , Esa. 55.6 . and call upon him while he is near .

Repent , and be converted , Acts 3.19 that your sins may be blotted out .

Now our Repentance prevaileth chiefly by 1. Prayer . 2. Fasting . 3. Alms. 4. Tears .

The prayer of humble peirceth he clouds . Ecclus. 5. 17.

It was the practice of David after his fall , as may appear by the 1 Psalm . Psal. 51.

It was the counsel of Saint Peter to Simon Magus , Repent of thy wickedness , and pray to God , if perhaps 〈◊〉 thought of thine heart may be s 〈◊〉 thee . Act 3.22 . For God is properly 〈◊〉 if we neglect not this duty .

Ps. 145.18 The Lord is nigh to all them that call upon him .

Eccles. 2. 10. He never forsakes them that call upon him .

But of this point more at large elsewhere .

Though the best fast be the fast of the soul , in abstaining from sin ; yet other fast of the body is necessary for us , S. Aug. as a salve for a wound .

It asswageth the intemperance of the body , represseth inordinate affections , and allayeth the passions of the soul , which arise by fulness .

Luc. 21.34 . Let not your hearts be over-charged , saith our Saviour .

All the servants of God by this humbled themselves , when they set themselves to repentance , or to obtain any thing at his hands .

Ps. 35.13 . 69. 10. David humbled , and chastened himself by fasting .

It was an antient Precept .

Saint Augustine out of Saint Basil saith , that it was commanded as a Law by God to Adam in Paradise , by prohibiting the Tree , And if he had fasted from that Tree , we had not needed to have fasted ; we are sick by sin , let us be healed by repentance ; but repentance without fasting is in vain . So he .

The Flesh had need to be kept under the Soul , like a servant , left it rebell , and to be held in with this bit ; Tob. 12 for let but the reins loose , and the flesh will run headlong to perdition .

Prayer is good with fasting , &c.

And God saith , Turn unto me with fasting . Joel 2.12 .

The Prayer and Alms of Cornelius ascended to Heaven . 3 3 Acts 10. ● .

Wilt thou have thy Prayers fly to Heaven , make it two wings , Fasting and Alms.

We are to give alms ( saith he ) in this regard , S. Aug. that we may be heard when we deprecate Gods anger for our sins past .

By Mercy and Truth iniquity is purged .

Who so stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor , Pro. 16 6. he also shall cry himself , Pro. 21.13 . and shall not be heard .

Give alms of such things as you have , Lu. 11.41 . and all things shall be clean to you .

Break off thine iniquities by shewing mercy on the poor , Dan 4.27 . saith Daniel to Nebuchadnezzer .

Lastly , The most powerful act of Repentance is godly sorrow , 2 Cor. 7. accompanied with groans , sighs , and tears .

They are the blood of a wounded soul.

They ascend unto the nostrils of God , as the Odour of a sweet smelling Sacrifice .

God suffereth them not to be spent in vain , Psal. 56.8 . but gathereth them .

David every nighe ( in thought of his offences ) washed his bed , 6. 6. and watered his couch with them .

Jer. 31 9. God promiseth , that if we come weeping , he will lead us in mercy .

And therefore commandeth it as a chief demonstration of our hearty Repentance . Joel 2.12 .

Saint Peter , after his denial of Christ , Lu. 22.62 . wept bitterly , but said nothing . We find that he wept , not what he said . He made choice to repent rather with tears , and no words , than with words , and no tears .

S. Ambr. Recte flevit & tacuit , quia quod defleri solet , non solet excusari .

Luc. 7.48 . Mary Magdalen wept , but said nothing , yet Christ said to her , thy sins are forgiven thee .

Esa. 38.5 . Ezechias wept sore , The Lord said , I have heard thy prayers , and seen thy tears , and added fifteen years to his life .

Lachrymae tacitae quodammodo preces sunt , S. Aug. veniam non postulant , & merentur .

Sufficit auribus Domini imber oculorum , fletus citius audit quam voces .

Let the wicked therefore forsake his way , Esa. 57.5 . and the unrighteous man his thoughts , and let him return unto the Lord .

To day if ye will hear his voice , Psal. 95.8 . harden not your hearts .

If we will not hear this voice of his , Repent , for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand . He will stop his ears to us when we cry , Lord , open unto us , Mar. 4.17 . though we cry with tears , as Esau did for his Fathers blessing , who found no way of changing his [ Fathers ] mind , though he sought it with tears , carefully , when it was too late .

For , though tears prevail in their due time , and happy is he that can shed them ; Yet when the door is shut , Heb. 12. God will say to the impenitent sinner , as he said to the foolish Virgins , I know ye not .

The Duty of Repentance .

THis duty of Repentance consisteth of two parts .

1. Mortification of the old Man , which is the first degree of Regeneration . 2. Quickning of the new , which is the second .

1. Mortification , is an act of the Holy Spirit in us , 1 1 Rom. 6.4 , 5 , 6. who doth by little and little quench and abate in our souls and bodies , the natural strength of our corruption , which was crept into us , Colos. 3. partly Originally , by Adams fall ( which is that we mean by the Old man ) and partly that Sin , which we have actually increased by our own frailty .

It consisteth .

1. In our acknowledgement of Sin . 2. In our Contrition and Sorrow .

Both which are set down in one Verse of the Psalmist . Psa 38.18 .

1. Our acknowledgement is either 1. Inward . 2. Outward .

1. Inward acknowledgement is when we feel the burden of our sins pressing us down , Psal , 38.5 . our Consciences accusing us , Ro. 2. 15. and our thoughts testifying against us . Ps 38. 39.

2. Outward , is when we make Confession of them by speech , or other outward actions .

And this Confession of sin , is a publication or manifestation of our unworthiness and guilt , whereby we testifie and bewail , that we have sinned against God , and have ( withall ) a setled resolution and purpose to offend him no more .

Confession is either Publick . Private .

Publick Confession is , when upon the Lords Day , or other dayes appointed for Gods Worship , we in the open Congregation , together , or after the Minister , do confesse our sins to God .

Private is , either 1. To God in our Closets , or other private places , as Ps. 32. 5. 38. 9. 18. 41. 4. 51. 2 Sam. 24. 10. Dan. 9.

2. To men . Jam. 5. 16.

2. Contrition is a sorrow and grief of the Conscience , and mourning of the Soul , because we have offended God , having also joyned with it a displeasure against our selves , and a true humiliation both of souls and bodies , as Iam. 4. 9. Esa. 66. 2. Eze. 36. 1. 41. 10. Ion. 3. 8. 2 Kings 22. 19. Matt. 5. 4. 2 Cor. 7. 9 , 10 , 11.

Quickning of the new man , is when we , returning to God , live spiritually , and have a desire ( for the time to come ) to please Him : this is also called a Conversion to God .

And this we do , 1. By avoiding evil . 2. Following that which is good .

Both comprehended in Psa. 34.14 . Esa. 1. 16 , 17.

The Benefits we receive by Repentance , are , Ps. 95.10 . The deferring of Gods punishments due for sin . Psal 89. 32 , 33. Chron. ● . 8. ●●n. 3. The mitigation of his displeasure . Ezec. 33. The averting of his judgements . Joh. 3. 10. The escaping of eternal death . 1 Ki. 21.29 . The prolonging of our prosperity . Dan. 4.27 . The attaining of eternal life .

Confession of Sins .

VVHo will give water to my head , or tears to mins eyes , Jer. 5. that I may day and night bewail my sins and ingratitude against thee , O God , my Creator ? Many things there are which terrifie mens Consciences , and bring them to the true sense of their sins , but nothing is so available thereunto , as the contemplation of the greatness of thy goodness , and the multitude of thy benefits . That therefore , O Lord , my poor wretched soul may the better see and consider in what state it stands , I will recount thy manifold blessings , and the number of my sins , that thereby also , I may more clearly understand who thou art , and what I am , how gracious a God thou hast been to me , and how rebellious a sinner I have been to thee .

There was a time , O Lord , ( as thy Divine Majesty best knoweth ) when I was not , and thou tookest me out of the dust of the Earth , and gavest me a being ; Gen. 2. 7 , 1. 26. creating in me a Soul after thine own similitude , and made it capable of thy glory . Thou didst create my body , with all the members and senses thereof ; and my soul , with all the powers and faculties thereof . And as thou didst create me , so thou didst preserve me in my Mothers womb , Ps. 12.19 that I might come safe into this world , and receive the mark and badge of all thine , even the Sacrament of Baptism , whereby I was cleansed from the guilt of Original sin . Amongst a multitude of Infidels , dispersed over the face of the Earth , thou wouldest have me in the number of the Faithfal , even of those to whom so happy a lot hath fallen to be thine , Tit. 3. 5. regenerated with the water of Baptism : From which time , I was taken to be thine , and that admirable and happy Contract was made between us , that thou shouldest be my Lord , and I thy Servant ; thou my Father , and I thy Son : that thou shouldest perform and shew to me the love of a Father , and I to thee the duty of a Son . Further , O Lord , thou didst descend from Heaven to Earth for my sake , seeking me in all the ways wherein I had lost my self . With thy humanity thou didst ennoble my nature , and by thy bonds didst deliver me from bondage . Thou didst challenge me from the power of the Devil , by delivering thy self into the hands of sinners , and didst destroy sin , by taking upon thee the form of a sinner . Phil. 2.7 . With what reverence shall I speak of that other blessed Sacrament , which Thou also , O Lord , hast instituted and ordained for a remedy of all the miseries which have befallen me , and the many sins I have committed since my Baptism ; and for a salve and cure for all my spiritual diseases , even the Sacrament of thy most precious Body and Blood ? And as thou hast bestowed on me all these divine and heavenly blessings : so likewise in plentiful manner hast thou heaped on me temporal favours . Thou hast from my birth to this hour , preserved , nourished , cloathed , and fed me , in most abundant manner , giving to me the use of all thy creatures for my sustentation . Nay , what couldest thou have done more for me , than thou hast done ? Or what couldest thou have given me more , than thou hast bestowed upon me , either of blessings of this world , or of the world to come ?

Now , having received all these mercies and favours from thee , how have I on my part behaved my self in thankfulness to thee for them ? Have I returned due praise unto thy Majesty for them , or carried my self , and ordered my life , like to one that might any way deserve them ? O Lord , I confess that I have not ; for such hath been the malice of my heart , that instead of shewing my self conformable to thy will , I dayly adde sin to sin , and iniquity to iniquity , Rom. 2.5 . heaping up wrath for my self against the day of wrath . How can I without tears remember , how often thou mightest justly have slain me , and yet ( notwithstanding my sins , which call for vengeance ) no evil hath happened unto me ? How many souls burn in Hell fire , which have sinned far less than I , and yet I remain alive ? What had become of me , if thou hadst taken me away with those at the same time ? How strict had my Iudgement been , if thy Iustice had laid hold on me , laden with so many sins ? Who then , O Lord , hath bound the hands of thy Iustice , who hath deprecated for me , when I lay thus lulled asleep in the security of my sins ? What hath pleased thee in me , that thou shouldst deal more mercifully with me , than with those , who in the midst of their dayes , in the heat of their youth , are taken away from amongst us ? My sins cryed out against me , and thou stoppedst thine ears , my offences dayly increased against thee , yet thy mercy dayly abounded towards me . I sinned , thou didst expect me , I fled from thee , and thou followedst me : I was weary in offending thee , and thou not weary in expecting me . And in the midst of all my sins , I ever received many good inspirations and goodly reproofs from thy holy Spirit , which checked me in the dissolute course of my life . How often hast thou called me with the voice of Love ? How often hast thou terrified me with threats and fears , laying before me the peril of death , and the rigour of thy divine Iustice ? How often hast thou followed me with thy Word preached . invited me with thy blessings , chastened me with thy scourges , compassing me about , that I could by no means slee from thee ? And lastly ( which is not the least of thy mercies ) with what patience hast thou waited for my serious Repentance ?

Psol. 106. 13. What then , O Lord , shall I render back to thee , for all that thou hast done unto me ? In that thou hast created me , I owe thee all that I am created , in that thou hast preserved me , and thus long expected my return to thee . I owe thee life , and all that I am . But in that thou hast regenerated , sanctified , and redeemed me , and left those excellent pledges for my salvation ; I know not what to render unto thee . For , if the lives of all men and Angels were in my power , and that I could offer them unto thee for a sacrifice of praise and thanks ; yet were it nothing , being compared to the least of all thy spiritual blessings bestowed on me .

Ier. 9. 1. VVho therefore will give a fountain of tears to mine eyes , that I may lament my great ingratitude , and unjust retribution for all these thy manifold blessings heaped upon me ? Help me thou , O Lord , and give me grace , that I may heartily confess , and grievously bewail my hainous offences and transgressions , against thee ; that thou mayest be reconciled to me , and in thy abundant mercies , shew some pity to me for them . I am thy creature , O Lord , made after thine own Likeness and Image : acknowledge thy workmanship , for it is thine own . In taking away the soyl and filth , wherewith it is defiled and stained , thou shalt soon perceive it to be thine own handy-work . Art not thou a Father of mercies , which have neither number , 2 Cor. 1.3 . end , nor measure ? Although I have shaken off the duty and obedience of a child towards thee , yet cast not thou off the love of a Father toward me . I beseech thee , Although I have done many things , whereby thou mightest justly condemn me , yet thou hast not lost the means whereby thou mayest mercifully save me . If thou forsake me , to whom shall I flee ? who is there to help me besides thy self ? Acknowledge , G Lord , a straying sheep : Behold I come to thee all wounded , thou canst heal me . blind , thou canst enlighten me : full of leprosie , thou canst cleanse me : and spiritually dead , yet thou canst revive me . Thy mercy is greater than my sin : thy clemency , more than my wickedness : and thou canst remit , more than I can commit . Do not then , O Lord , put me back from thee : look not so much upon my sins , as upon thy infinite meocies ; who livest and reignest God of all mercies , world without end .

Another .

O Almighty Lord God , great in thy power , and terrible in thy judgements , Exod. 34. who madest the Heaven , the Earth , the Sea , and all things in them , by thy Word , whose Power cannot be resisted , and whose Mercy is over all thy works . Ps. 145.9 . All things are under thy power and rule , both in Heaven and Earth . Thou shewest mercy on whom thou wilt , art pitiful to whom thou pleasest , and wouldst not the death of a sinner , Eze. 33. 11. neither delightest in the destruction of any . O God , rich in mercy , who , Eph. 2.4 . out of thy extraordinary love to Mankind , even when we were thine Enemies , Rom. 5.10 didst send thine only Son into the world , that every one that believed on him might not perish , but have life everlasting ; Have mercy upon me , have mercy upon me , according to thy mercy , Psal. 51. and according to the multitude of thy mercies , do away my offenses . Lu. 15.18 . Holy Father , I have sinned against Heaven , and before thee , and am no more worthy to be called thy Son . I have turned from thee , and have broken all thy Commandements . I have not walked aright , but have gone after mine own lusts , choosing Esa. 65.2 those wayes , which thou hast forbidden me to tread in . Neither , O Lord , have I feared thine anger , but have been in all things disobedient unto thee , and have hardned my heart against thee . I have hated instruction , Pro. 5.12 . and cast thy sayings behind me . Truth hath found no place in me , and my hands have been the workers of much wickedness . I have spoken vainly , idlely , and wickedly . I have brought forth deceit , and meditated the way of untruth . I have provoked thy wrath against me , by accustoming my self to do the work of the flesh , and rejecting the good motions of the Spirit . Woe unto me , rebellious wretch , Esa. 30.1 . that I have committed these wicked acts , against thee , so loving , so good , so gracious a God ; to the utter destruction of my soul , without thy mercy in Christ Iesus . In remembrance , and confidence whereof , O Lord , I come to thee , and humbly intreat thee , that thou wouldest not reject a contrite , humble , miserable , and repentant sinner , who at this time earnestly invocateth thy Name . Psal. 7. 9. Return a little , O Lord , and be intreated for my manifold sins , do not unto me according to the multitude of them , neither reward me according to my transgressions . Let my humble Prayers , sighs , and groans , come into thy presence , and according to thy promises , receive me again into thy favour . For , O Father , I am one of those , whom thy only Son redeemed with his most precious blood . O Lord , my soul doth loath my life , by reason of my manifold sins , 1 Pet. 5.6 . and I humble my self under thy mighty hand , because I know , that in thine anger thou shewest mercy , Aba. 3. 2. and in time of trouble thou dost forgive offences : And behold , O Lord , that I confess my sins , beseeching thee , for thy goodness , to do unto me , according to thy wonted mercy . I am confounded and ashamed to lift up mine eyes unto thee , because my sins have prevented my prayers , and have ascended up to thee , before them . Against thee , Psal. 51. O Lord , have I sinned and done much evil in thy sight ; Yet wherefore should I dye in my sins , seeing it is not thy pleasure , Exech . 18 that any sinner should dye , but turn unto thee , and live ? For thou art good and gracious , and savest those who are altogether unworthy , out of the abundance of thy mercy in Christ Iesus the Righteous . For although thine anger against sinners is unsufferable , and who may abide it ? Yet thy mercy towards offenders is unsearchable , and who can find out the depth thereof , or describe it ? Psal. 22. Our Fathers in their troubles cryed unto thee , and thou didst deliver them , they put their trust in thee , and were not confounded . And though they , by their offences , have justly provoked thine anger , yet ( upon their humiliation ) thou didst remember thy Covenant , and ease them of their afflictions . O Lord , be merciful also unto me , for I am miserable and wretched . Heal my soul , Psal. 41.4 . 6. 3. 13. for I have sinned against thee . My soul is very much disquieted within me : How long , Lord , will it be , ere thou look upon me , and deliver it ? Psal 13.3 . Lighten mine eyes , for I have ( too long ) slept in death , and my sins have ( too long ) had dominion over me . Return , O Lord , at the last , and be gracious unto me ; O deliver my soul , and have mercy upon me : And all my bones shall say , Lord who is like unto thee ? Ps. 35.10 . To thee be all Honour , Praise , and Glory , World without end .

Another .

O Lord Iesus Christ , the only Physician of sick souls , Gal. 4. 4. who in the fulness of God came into this World , Mat. 9.13 . not to call the just , but sinners to Repentance . Behold me ( the most wretched of all sinners , who ( with as much humility as I am able in the confidence of thy great goodness , cast my self before the foot-stool of thy Majesty , confessing my great and grievous offences . And if the Publican in the Gospel durst not lift up his eyes to heaven , but stood a far off , Lu. 18.13 . and smote his brest , saying , Lord be merciful to me a sinner , what shall I doe , whose sins surpass the greatest sinners offences ? For all my inward and outward parts , are wholly depraved , and nothing that is good remaineth in me . And , when I look into the book of my conscience , I find , that I have abominably polluted the garment of innocency , which I received at my Baptism . I have put all my strength to offend thee with all the members I have . For , my feet have been swift to evil , Ro. 13.15 . and flow to good : Esa. 3.16 . mine eyes open to vanity , and shut to that which is truly amiable . My hands stretched to covetousness , and closed from the works of mercy : mine ears ready to hear evil , and stopped to the good motions of the Spirit : and my soul , ( the noblest part in me ) which hath eyes to contemplate the glory of thy Majesty : I have turned away from the consideration of thy Excellency , to the vain and transitory things of this life . I have given liberty to whatsoever mine eyes have desired , and have not resisted the unclean passions of my heart : so that the whole course of my life hath been a continual warfare against the. How often have I returned as a dog to the vomit , and as a sow washed , to the myre ? I am that Fool which hath said in his heart there is no God . For I have lived so dissolutely , that I have made plain demonstration by my behaviour , That I believed , thou either wert not at all , or else couldst do nothing at all . Thou , O Lord , hast often called me , and I have neglected thy voice : Thou hast expected me , and I have abused thy patience . Thou hast given me the treasure of a long time to repent , and I have consumed it wastefully . Thou hast stricken me , and I have not been sensible of thy hand . Thou hast afflicted me , and I have made no use of thy correction . Thou didst sweat , to make me clean , and I still remain in my pollution . I am hardned , as well with thy punishments , as with thy blessings , being rebellious to the one , and unthankful for the other . And what shall I further say ? but that my heart , soul , thoughts , and body , are all impure and defiled , and that of all sinners I am the chief , 1 Tim. 1.9 . unworthy Earth should any longer sustain me , or that I should expect any thing from thee , but thy severest Iudgement . For if thou sparedst not Lucifer , and his Angels , for one only sin , Pride , but didst cast them from Heaven , Jude 6. to be reserved for everlasting chains of darknesse , unto the Iudgement of the great Day : what can I hope or look for , that have offended thee , not in one offence alone , but in all kind of transgressions ? For my sins are in number , numberless , insomuch , that I hate my self , for my madness , that from so noble a liberty , I am fallen into so base a servitude : and find my self overwhelmed with the horrible dread of thy fearful Iudgements , Psal. 55.5 . Yet when I behold and consider that infinite mercy of thine , Ps. 145.9 . which surpasseth all the rest of thy works , I am a little refreshed , and my Soul is a little comforted and revived : For as by the examination of the hainousness of my sins , and the strictness of thy Iustice , Ezech. 11 I did almost despair : Joel 2. So , considering and weighing the testimonies of thy Servants , left upon record , for the comfort of poor distressed souls , I am somewhat again cheared and raised up . For , besides those places of consolation , and many more , I find , by divers Parables and Similitudes of thine own , how ready and propense thou art to receive and pardon the Penitent . As , Luc. 15. by the lost Penny , the lost Sheep , and by the Prodigal Son , whose Image I find in my self , and whose life mine doth fully parallel . Wherefore , O Lord , I humbly intreat thee , to restore me ( thy lost Son ) to thy favour : and withall , to give me the true sense and knowledge of the innocency I have lost . I do not desire , that thou shouldest deal so kindly with me , as that Father did with his Son : but I shall be happy and glad if thou wilt entertain me , as one of the meanest of thy hired servants . My hope and confidence is , that thou wilt pitty me , because thou art the fountain of pitty and compassion . Behold me therefore with the eyes of pitty , look on me , and ease me , who come unto thee , laden with the heavy burden of my sins ; Mat. 11. 28. pardon them , and save me , for thy infinite mercy : and remember not my sins , but thine own sufferings ; think not on me as a proud and rebellious Malefactor , but as an humble and penitent Convert , Look on me with those eyes of compassion , wherewith thou didst sometime behold Mary Magdalen , Luc. 7 48. 22. 62. 23. 43. Peter , and the good Thief : Give me true knowledge of my sins , with the first ; true contrition , with the second ; and receive me , with the third , into thy Heavenly Paradise . Let thy obedience satisfie for my rebellions , thy innocency for my guilt , thy humility for my arrogancy , thy fasting for my intemperance , and thy justice for my iniquity . Lord , if thou wilt , thou canst make me whole , Mat. 26. 39. and restore me to thy former grace . Purifie , purge , and cleanse me from mine offences , and open mine eyes , that I may clearly see mine own pollution : and make me to grieve that I have not grieved for my sins as I ought to have done . And as thou hast by thy long-suffering hitherto expected my repentance , so , of thy infinite mercy and goodness , pardon me repenting : and grant me grace , that I may be afraid to offend thee hereafter . Hear me , O sweet Saviour , & make intercession for me to the Father , with whom , and the Holy Spirit , thou dost live and reign coequal and coeternal Lord God , world without end , Amen .

Confession of Sins .

I confess , O Lord ,

Psal. 51.5 . That I was shaped in wickedness , and in sin my Mother conceived me .

Job 14.4 . That I was brought forth in uncleanness .

Deut. 29. 18. 32. 32. That I am a root of bitterness .

A wild vine of Sodom .

Ro. 11.14 . A branch of the wild olive .

Eph. 2. 3. The child of wrath .

A vessel of dishonour and perdition .

Ose. 7.16 . That my heart is rebellious , like a starting bow .

Psal. 5.10 . That my throat is an open sepulcher , venting all folly .

Esa. 6. 5. That I am of polluted lips .

Ps. 144.11 That my tongue talketh nothing but vanity .

Mar. 7.22 . That mine eyes are evil prone to lust .

Psal. 58.4 . That mine ears are uncircumcised , and like to the deaf Adder .

Jer. 3. 3. That I have a forhead of brass , and a neck of iron .

He. 12.12 . That my hands are slow to good .

Rom. 3.15 That my feet are swift to evil .

I have sinned against thee , O Lord , and in thy sight , not fearing thy Majesty .

My Sins are ,

In quantity ,

Large , Esa. 57 8 and of a great size . Of long continuance , Ps. 25.11 .

From my Mothers breasts .

Deep . Hos. 9 9. Heavy . Psal. 38 4. Like a burden . Like lead . Zach. 5.7 .

Stretching to Heaven with their cry .

Many in number , Like the Stars . Jer. 30. 14 , 15 More than the hairs of my head . Ps. 40.12 . The sands of the Sea . Oratio . Oftentimes reiterated . Manass. As a Fountain casting out water . Esa. 57.20 Till they became as a habit . Jer. 6 7. As red as scarlet and crimson . Esa. 1.18 . I am sold under sin . Rom. 7.14 . Till they become natural to me . Like the AEthiopians skin . 1 Kings 21. 25. The Leopards spots . Jer. 13.23 .

In quality ,

The worst of sins .

Esa. 5. 18. Strong , like cords and cart-ropes .

Rom. 6 21 Gaining nothing thereby .

Eze. 13.19 For a handful of barley , a little bread .

Eph. 4.19 . Committing sin with greediness .

Jer. 3.3 . Sin upon sin .

Eze. 3. 7. 6. 15. With impudence .

Not being ashamed .

Gal. 2.18 . Knowing it to be sin .

Jam. 4.17 . Giving offence thereby .

Mat. 18.7 . Unthankfully .

Rom. 8.21 Like the Dog to the vomit .

2 Per. 2.2 . Like the Sow to the mire .

Psal. 119. 137. Therefore , O Lord , because thou art just , and thy judgements true .

I reap the fruit of my foolishness .

Rom. 6.21 For what fruit have I in those things whereof I am ashamed ?

Ps. 102.3 . Job 7. 11. My dayes are consumed in vanity , and my years in the bitternesse of my soul.

Psal. 38.3 . And now there is no health in my flesh , because of thy displeasure : neither is there any rest in my bones , by reason of my sin .

My heart trembleth also , with remembrance of thy Iudgements .

I feel bitterness above the bitterness of death , in that I have forsaken thee , O God , and that thou hast forsaken me .

Woe unto me , rebellious Wretch , for thus doing .

See , and consider , O Lord , how vile I am become , for my Soul abhorreth to live .

I have roared for the disquietness of my heart . Psal. 38.8 .

And what shall I now say , or wherein shall I open my mouth ? What shall I answer , seeing I have done these things ? Job

Miserable man that I am , who shall deliver me out of this body of death ? Rom. 7.24

When I have not what I can further say or do , this only remaineth , this is my last refuge , that I direct mine eyes to thee . 2 Chron. 20. 12.

Out of the deep have I called to thee , O Lord : Lord hear my voice . Psal. 130.

If thou Lord shouldest be extream to mark what is done amiss , O Lord , who may abide it ?

Enter not into judgement with thy Servant , O Lord , for in thy sight shall no man living be justified .

Wherefore , O Lord , I appeal from Thee , to Thee .

From Thee , a just Iudge ;

To Thee , a merciful Father .

From the Throne of thy Iustice ,

To the Seat of thy Mercy .

O Lord , be pleased to admit of this appeal .

If thou do not , I perish .

Mat. 8.25 . And , O Lord , carest thou not that I perish ?

1 Tim. 2.4 2 Pet. 3.9 . Who wouldest have all to be saved , none so perish .

I am thine , O save me .

Ps. 119.94 . 138. 8. Despise not the work of thy hands .

Wis. 11.24 Who hatest nothing which thou hast made .

Ps. 116.15 I am thy Servant , and Son of thy Handmaid .

Dan. 9 19 Thy Name is called on by us .

Heb. 1. 16 Thou art not ashamed to be called our Lord .

I am the price of thy Sons blood . O spare thy Workmanship .

Thy Child .

Thy Name .

The price of thy Sons blood ,

But I am a sinner , and God heareth not sinners . Joh. 9.30 .

Yet I pray thee remember of what I am made ; Ps. 78.40 . That I am but flesh , and a wind that passeth away , and cometh not again .

Take notice of the matter of which I am made .

Remember that I am but dust . 103.14 .

Frail flesh . Light wind . Loose dust .

And wilt thou , O Lord , break a leaf driven with the wind too and fro ? and wilt thou pursue dry stubble ? Job . 13.25

Behold , O Lord , though I have sinned , 1 Pet. 5.6 . yet I humble my self under thy mighty hand .

Spare the humble and contrite .

David spared Shimei that railed on him . 2 Sam. 19. 19. And David was a man according to thine own heart . 1 Sam. 13. 14.

Therefore do thou spare me .

Ahab , King of Israel , forgave the King of Syria his offence , 1 Kings 20. 31 , upon his humiliation .

Was there ever King of Israel more merciful than thou ?

Thou forgavest the same Ahab ( who had sold himself to sin ) when he humbled himself . 1 Kings 11. 29.

Spare me also , I beseech thee .

Ps. 80. 4. O Lord , how long wilt thou be angry with thy Servant which prayeth .

Job 31. 3. Surely , Lord , I hide not my sins , like Adam , but confess them .

1 Col. 11. 31. Behold , I judge my self .

2 Cor. 7. 11. Accept , O Lord , the Sacrifice of a troubled Spirit , A contrite heart , A grieved Soul , A wounded Conscience .

Though I have sinned against thee .

It hath ever been thy Practice to be merciful .

Ps. 22. 4. Our Fathers trusted in thee , they trusted , and were not confounded .

25. 6. Thy mercies have been ever of old .

89. 49. Lord , where are thy former loving kindnesses .

Syr. 2.10 . Look at the Generations of old , and see , did ever any trust in the Lord , and was confounded ? Or whom did he ever despise , that called upon him .

It is due by thy Promise .

Ps. 119 49. Remember thy word unto thy servant ; upon which thou hast caused me to hope .

Let thy mercy come unto me , O Lord , even thy salvation , according to thy word .

God hath promised , which cannot lie . Tit. 1 2.

He is a God of truth . Psal 36 6.

And confirmed it with an Oath . Heb. 6.17 .

Which promise the unbelief of men cannot make void . Rom. 3.2 .

If we believe not , yet he abideth faithful , he cannot deny himself . 2 Tim. 2. 13.

There will arise no benefit by my destruction .

For what profit is there in my blood , if I go down into the pit ? Psal. 30.9 .

For in death is no remembrance of thee , and in the grave who shall give thee thanks ? 6. 5.

Wilt thou shew wonders to the dead ? Or shall the dead arise and praise thee ? 88. 10.

Shall thy loving kindness be declared in the grave ? Or thy faithfulness in destruction ? Ps. 88.11 .

The grave cannot praise thee , death cannot celebrate thee : the living , the living , he shall praise thee . Esa. 38.18 .

I will not dye , but live , and declare the works of the Lord . Ps. 118 17 Psal 34.8 .

O taste and see how gracious the Lord is , blessed is the man that trusteth in him . 1 Pet. 1. 3.

Ps. 109.2 . 97. 17. Thy mercies , O Lord , are Sweet .

63. 4. Comfortable .

5. 7. Better than life .

51. 1. Many . A multitude of them .

130. 6. Plentiful ,

Luc. 1 78. Tender .

Rom. ● . 20 . Superabundant .

1 Tim. 1. 14. Wonderful .

Psal. 17.7 . Infinite .

71. 13. Great .

86 1. Broad . From the East to the West .

119. 156. Long.

103. 12. Deep .

Eph. 3. 18 , 19. High . To the Heavens .

Psal. 26 5 108. 4. High . Above the Heavens .

Psal. 25.5 . 103. 17. Past knowledge .

136. Eternal of old .

19. 2. For ever .

79. 9. Preventing .

23. 6. Following .

32. 11. Compassing .

103. 13. Pardoning .

4. Crowning .

145. 9. Over all thy works .

Our sins . Rom. 5.20

Thy justice . Jam. 2.13 .

Thou art the Father of mercies . 2 Cor. 1.3 .

Thou art patient , and slow to anger .

Thou winkest at the sins of men , because they should repent . Wis. 11.23

Sparing thy people forty years . Ps. 95.10 . 78. 39.

Many times thou didst turn thy wrath away , and wouldest not suffer thy whole displeasure to arise .

It is of thy mercy that we are not consumed . Lam. 3.21

Gentle in correcting , insomuch as thy justice is not without mercy .

I will visit their offences with the rod , and their sin with scourges : Nevertheless , my loving kindness will I not utterly take from him . Ps. 89.21 . 33.

He hath not dealt with us after our sins . 103. 10.

How shall I smile thee , O Ephraim ? Hos. 11.8 .

Placable , and easie to be pacified .

He will not alway be chiding : neither keepeth he his anger for ever . 103. 9.

His wrath endureth but the twinkling of an eye . Psal. 30.5 .

Esa. 54.7 . For a small moment have I forsaken thee , but with great mercies will I gather thee .

Abac. 312. In anger he remembreth mercy .

2 Sam. 12. 13. David said , I have sinned against the Lord . And Nathan said to David , The Lord hath also put away thy sin , thou shalt not dye .

Esa. 30.18 The Lord waiteth to be gracious unto us .

Compassionate .

Luc. 1.71 . Thy Compassions are called bowels of mercy .

Ps. 106.43 When thou didst see the misery of thy people , thou hadst compassion on them .

Mt. 15. 32. 18. 27. Then the Lord of the servant , moved with compassion , loosed him , and forgave him the debt .

Not only ready to forgive , but profuse in mercy .

Ps. 130.7 . With thee is plentious redemption .

Lu. 15.22 The Father of the Prodigal , not only pardoned him , but put on him the best Robe , and a Ring , and killed the fat Calf for him .

He will have joy in Heaven , for a sinner repenting .

Thy pardon extendeth , not only to small , but great sins , and sinners .

Such as Pet. who forsware thee , Lu. 26.74 .

Paul , who blasphemed thee . 1 Tim. 1. 13.

The Thief on the Cross. Lu. 23.43 .

The Adulteress . John 8.

Mary Magdalen . Luc. 7.38 .

They say , If a man put away his Wife , and she go from him , and become another mans , shall he return unto her again ? shall not the Land be greatly polluted ? But thou hast played the Harlot with many Lovers , yet return again to me , saith the Lord . Jer. 3. 1.

He is kind to the unthankful and evil . Luc. 6.35 .

But all these are recapitulated and summed up in Christ Iesus .

In whom he hath given us great and precious promises . 1 Pet. 1.4 .

And in whom all the promises of God are Yea , and Amen . 2 Cor. 1. 19.

In naming of whom it will be sufficient . Joh. 16.23

Iesus , thou Son of David , have mercy on me . Mat. 15. 22.

Which Name Jesus , was given unto him , because he saveth us from our sins . Mat. 1.21 .

S. August . Lord , Do not so earnestly mark our sins , as that thereby thou forget thine own Name .

2 Sam. 19 Thou Son of David ( who forgave Shimei his sworn Enemy , reviling him )

Forgive me .

O Christ hear me .

Intercede for me .

Make thy Father propitious to me .

Psal. 35.3 . Say unto my Soul , I am thy Salvation .

1 Tim. 2. 15. Let not thy Apostle comfort me in vain , when he saith , This is a faithful saying , and worthy of all acceptation , that Iesus Christ came into the world to save sinners .

Rom. 5.20 Where sin hath abounded , there grace hath super-abounded .

11. 32. God hath concluded all under sin , that he might have mercy upon all .

5. 10. When we were Gods Enemies , we were reconciled to him by the death of his Son .

Let not another of thy Apostles say in vain .

1 Pet. 3 18 Christ once suffered for sin , the just for the unjust , that he might bring us to God .

Let not the third .

Mercy rejoyceth above judgement . Jam. 2.13 .

Let not the fourth .

If any man sin , 1 Joh. 2.1 . we have an Advocate with the Father , Christ Iesus the righteous . And he is the propitiation for our sins , and not for ours only , but for the sins of the whole world .

Let not thine own words be spoken in vain .

Come unto me all ye that labour , and are heavy laden , and I will give you rest . Mat. 11. 28.

I came not to call the righteous , but sinners to repentance . Luc. 5. 32.

I came not to judge the world , but to save it . John 12. 47.

These things are not cannot be spoken in vain .

Wherefore , in the multitude of the sorrowes that are in my Heart , thy comforts , O Lord , have refreshed my Soul . Ps. 94.19 .

Let us therefore come boldly to the Throne of Grace , that we may obtain mercy , and find grace to help in time of need . Heb: 4 16.

Which be pleased to grant ,

For thy great and many Mercies .

Thy Names sake .

The Glory of thy Name .

Thy Promise sake .

Thy Practice sake .

My Misery .

My Infirmity .

Even for thy Son Iesus Christ's sake .

The Seven Penitential Psalms Paraphrased .

Psalm 6.

O Lord my God , rebuke me not , I beseech thee , in thy fierce indignation against my sins , either in this life , or at the day of judgement , neither chasten or correct me in thy hot displeasure , by condemning me to eternal death .

2 Have mercy and compassion upon me , according to thy accustomed goodness , O Lord , for I am weak , and frail by nature , strengthen me therefore by thy grace , O Lord , and heal me , by curing the infirmities of my Soul , for they are multiplied so greatly upon me , that my bones , and all my inward parts are vexed and disquieted with the remembrance of them .

3 My sinful Soul , considering my manifold offences , and trembling at the thought of thy just anger against them , is also ( like as is my flesh ) sore troubled , and almost at the point of desparation : but thou , O Lord , that desirest not the death of a sinner , how long will it be ere thou look upon me , and bring me out of this misery ?

4 Return from the rigour of thy justice , O Lord , to the sweetness of thy mercy , and deliver my Soul from the bondage of sin : O Lord , save me from the assaults of the Devil , not for any merits of mine , but for thy mercies sake , in Christ Jesus my Saviour .

5 For in death there is no remembrance of thee , to praise and glorifie thy Name : and who , surely none there is that shall give thee thanks , or celebrate thy goodness in the grave of Hell , where nothing is to be heard but weeping , gnashing of teeth , and blasphemies .

6 I am weary and faint , with my groaning and sighing for my transgressions , every night , when I should take my rest , I wash my bed , weeping for them , and I water my couch , the place of my rest , with my tears of unfeigned repentance .

7 Mine eye of reason and understanding is consumed , and groweth weak , because of the grief I take , fearing thy judgements : yea , it waxeth old , and I continue in sin , because of the united Forces of all mine Enemies , the World , the Flesh , and the Devil .

8 Depart therefore far form me al ye mine Enemies , which are , and have been the workers and causers of mine iniquity , by your tentations , and evil examples ; for henceforth I will have no more to do with you ; for my Conscience assureth me , that the Lord , of his infinite goodness , hath heard and pitied the voice of my weeping : and therefore I should be unthankful to him , to return to those sins , which he , in his mercy , hath forgiven .

9 The Lord , I cannot repeat it too often , hath graciously heard my earnest supplication for the pardon of my sins , and he , the Lord , plentiful in pity , hath not only now , but will also hereafter receive my prayer , whensoever I call faithfully upon him .

10 Let all mine Enemies therefore : who have sought my destruction , be ashamed at my Conversion , and before vexed and troubled at the consideration os Gods judgements . Let them no longer delay , but repent and return to the Lord , and be ashamed , that they have so long deferred their conversion , and suddenly , without any longer delay , make their peace with him , by unfeigned repentance .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 32.

BLessed is he in this life , in assured hope , and thrice blessed , in full and perfect fruition , in the life to come , whose transgression , by Gods mercy , is forgiven , in respect of the offence : and whose sin , by the imputation of Christs righteousness , is so covered in this world , that it be not laid open at the day of judgement , in respect of the punishment .

2 Blessed and happy is the man , unto whom , in regard either of offence , or punishment , the Lord , accepting the merits of Christ , imputeth no sin , but giveth so ample a remission of them , that he taketh no notice of any sin in him : and in whose Spirit , as well as in outward shew , is no guile , but penitently , without hypocrisie , bewaileth his offences .

3 When I my self ( I speak by experience ) kept silence , dissembling and covering my sins , wherewith my Conscience was oppressed , my bones , and inward parts , waxed old and feeble , through my roaring , which God regarded not , though I cryed all the day long , and that , because I confessed not my sins aright unto him .

4 For day and night , continually , thy hard hand of affliction was heavy upon me , to punish my obstinacy , and to reduce me to repentance ; and by reason thereof , my moisture and vigour which I formerly had , is turned like to the drought of Summer , and is almost withered and dryed up .

5 My sin therefore , at the last ( I being thus handled by thee ) did I resolve to acknowledge unto thee in contrition of soul , and mine iniquity , which I formerly concealed , I have but any longer hid , but humbly confessed unto thee .

6 I further said within my self , when thy grace began to work in me , that I will no longer continue in my rebellion , but penitently confess all my transgressions , and iniquity unto the Lord , gracious and merciful : and I had no sooner done it , but thou ( of thy wonted compassion ) forgavest the iniquity , and punishment of my sin , committed against thee .

7 For this remission of sin , as it was necessary for me to pray for it , so shall every one , of what condition soever , that is godly , ( for the just also fall ) pray unto thee , O Lord , in a time when thou mayest be found , in a fit season . But in the greatest danger of floods , and swelling of the great waters of afflictions , God will so preserve serve the just man , that they shall not have power to come nigh unto him ; to oppose or overwhelm him .

8 Thou , O God , art my hiding place , and refuge in all tribulations ; thou ( for in none other will I trust ) shalt preserve me , by thy power , from trouble and adversity . Thou shalt compass me about with thy mercy , and I will sing unto thee songs of praise , for my deliverance .

9 I will instruct thee ( saith God ) O Man , if thou wilt be ruled by me , and teach thee in the way of righteousness , which thou shalt wal in without erring . I will guide thee in the right way with mine eye of providence , that no evil shall happen unto thee .

10 Be ye not therefore , O foolish men ( since I am so careful over you ) without reason , as the unruly Horse , and dull Mule , which have no understanding , to bridle their head-strong desires : whose hard mouth must be held in with strong hand , and with bit and bridle , and you with tribulations and afflictions : if you be rebellious , then ( as they must be held in lest they come near thee , and fall upon their Rider , or kick at them , so ) shall you be forced by adversity to know your selves , for opposing God your Creator .

11 Many sorrows , either in this world , or torments , in the world to come , shall be to the obstinate and unrepentant wicked : but he that with his whole heart dependeth on , and trusteth in the Lord his God , the Mercy of the same God shall compass and defend him on every side , from all dangers .

12 Be glad then , O ye Servants of the most High , in the salvation of the Lord , and not in your own strength , and rejoyce in fervency of spirit , ye that are just and righteous : shout for joy , in the comfort of a good Conscience , all ye that are upright in heart . Because the Lord is gracious to those that love him , and hath delight in the prosperity of his Servants .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 38.

O Lord , I do not altogether decline and refuse thy corrections , only this I require of thee , that thou rebuke me not in thy fierce wrath , by condemning me with the reprobate : neither chasten me , poor sinner , too severely , by the extraordinary afflictions of this life , or in thy hot displeasure .

2 For it is not without cause , that I should thus deprecate thine anger , for thine arrows of grief and anguish stick fast in me , and are sore upon me already , and thy hand of present affliction presseth and troubleth me sore .

3 There is no soundness nor health in my flesh , because of the vehemency of thine anger against me : Neither is there any rest or quiet in my bones , and inward parts , when I consider , that thy displeasure ariseth towards me , because of the grievousness of my sinne .

4. For ( having recollected my thoughts ) I find that mine iniquities ( which hitherto I regarded not ) are so many , that they are gone over my head , they are past my understanding , for quantity and quality , and as a heavy burthen , for the weight of them , they are become to heavy for me to bear any longer : they press me down so much , that I cannot look up to Heaven , or heavenly things .

5 My wounds , which sin hath made in my Conscience , stink in thy nostrils , O God , and they are so abominable , that now they corrupt , and putrifie in mine own sight : and all this is come upon me , because of my foolishness , that have let them go so long unsearched , ( un-repented of ) that they are almost past cure , or remedy .

6 I am troubled therefore , that I have so long put off my conversion , I am bowed and pressed down , with the weight of my transgressions , and an humbled in soul for them greatly , and crave pardon for them . I go mourning and grieving all the day long , be wailing the former time of my life mis-spend .

7 For my loyns are filled , and infected with a loathsome disease , or carnal concupiscence : and there is no soundness nor goodness at all in my flesh , for that it rebelleth against the Spirit .

8 I am feeble in body , and sore broken in mind , in so much , that considering with my self , how grievously I have offended thee , I have roared and cryed bitterly , by reason of the disquietness of my sinful heart : O Lord , therefore forgive my offences .

9 Lord , who knowest all things , and dost search into the hearts of all men , all my desire , to be reconciled to thee , and to lead a new life , is before thee , thou knowest it , and my groaning , and earnest prayer , mingled with sighs and tears , is not hid from thee , but ( I hope ) is ascended into thy presence .

10 My heart , which hath lost the peace of Conscience , panteth for fear of thy Judgements , my [ wonted strength faileth me , and I am grown weak : as for the light of mine inward eyes , wherewith I was wont to discern good from evil , it is also dim , and gone from me , and I am become like to them that walk in darknesse .

11 My lovers , and those which I took for friends , because they see me go about to forsake my evil courses , stand aloof off from my sore , and instead of giving me comfort , become mine adversaries : and my kinsmen , who in my prosperity fawned on me , now stand afar off , and leave me comfortless .

12 They also of mine Enemies , that seek after the ruine of my life , and eternal happiness , lay snares and tentations for me : and they that seek my hurt , in bereaving me of my good name , speak mischievous and false things to my reproach , and imagine deceit , how to divert me from the right way , all the day long .

13 But I , being resolved to persist in the way of repentance , and to trust wholly in the mercy of God , behaved my self to them as a deaf man , giving no ear to their allurements , and made as though I heard them not : and I was in my behaviour to them , as a dumb man , that knew not how to speak ; or , that opened not his mouth .

14 Thus careful was I , lest mine Enemies should entrap me , and I continued still , as a man that heareth not , nor is moved with their tentations , and in whose mouth ( notwithstanding their evil deeds to me ) are no reproofs .

15 For in thee , O Lord , ( let them do what they can ) do I hope , and put my confidence , that thou wilt keep thy promise , and hear me , when I call upon thee , O Lord , my God , and Saviour .

16 For I said in my prayer to thee , hear me , O Lord , lest , if thou forsake me , they should rejoyce and triumph over me , for when , and as soon as my foot of Faith slippeth , never so little by infirmity , they presently imagine , that thou hast forsaken me , and magnifie themselves , as though they had obtained victory , against me .

17 For I cannot marvel , that they should so do , considering , that when I feel the weight of my sins , I my self am ready to halt and despair : and the reason of my sorrow is , because thy judgements are before me , and in my thoughts .

18 For remedy whereof , I will declare , and confess to thee , O Lord , in the biterness of my Soul , my iniquity , and take revenge of my self for it : yea , I will be ( as long as I live ) heartily sorry , and much grieved for my sin past , though it be forgiven .

19 But mine Enemies think not of forsaking their wayes , they are lively , and merry , and cry peace , peace , to their Souls , and they are strong to do evil : and they also that hate me ( because they see my Conversion ) wrongfully , and without cause , are multiplyed , and exceedingly increased .

20 They also that unthankfully render evil to me , for the good which I have done unto them , are also become mine Adversaries , and do unto me all the mischief they can , and why ? because they perceive my conversion , and that I follow and love the thing that good is , which they hate .

21 Forsake me not , either in tentation , or tribulation , O Lord , the Author of my salvation : O my God , whom I desire to serve , be not far from me , by with-drawing thy grace from me .

22 Make haste ( lest I faint under the burthen of my sins ) to help me , against my Enemies , O Lord , who art my only stay in this life , and my salvation in the life to come .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 51.

HAve mercy upon me , miserable sinner , O God , full of mercy and compassion , according to thy loving and infinite kindness to the Sons of men ; and , as my sins are infinite , so , according to the multitude of thy tender mercies , which thou hast ever shewed to penitent sinners , blot out of the book of thy remembrance my innumerable transgressions .

2 Wash me thorowly , with the blood of thy dear Son , from mine iniquity , whereby I have so often offended thy Majesty ; and cleanse me , in the fountain of thy mercies , from my sin , whereby I have also offended my Neighhour .

3 For , behold , O Lord , I hide not , nor excuse , but in the bitter tears of repentance acknowledge and confess my horrible transgressions against thee , and my grievous sin , in which I did for a time take delight , is grown odious to me , and is ever before me in remorse of Conscience .

4. Against thee , most mercifull Father , only , have I sinned , and though I were ashamed to commit sin in the sight of men , yet I have done this great evil in thy all-seeing sight : yet , O Lord , be mercifull to me , and pardon it , that thou mightest be justified , and found true and faithfull , when thou speakest ( as thou hast often done ) of mercy and forgiveness to the penitent , and be clear from the imputation of injustice , when thou art arrogantly and falsly judged for severity , thy punishments being just , though the eyes of our understanding be not so clear , as to perceive the justice of them .

5 Behold , O Lord , that I , as all man-kind , was shapen in the iniquity of original sin , from which fountain springeth my misery : and in sin , and concupiscence did my mother conceive me , from whence groweth the infirmity of my flesh .

6 Behold also , O Lord , I know that thou desirest Truth , Faith and integrity , in the inward parts of my conscience : and in the hidden parts of me ( my soul ) Thou shalt make me , by the illumination of thy Holy Spirit , to know wisdom , to eternal life .

7. Purge me , leprous sinner , with spiritual Hisope , the blood of thy Son , instead of the Hysope , which was wont to clense the leprous , in the law ; and by that blood , I shall be clean , and purified from the leprosie of sin : Wash me , in the fountain of Grace , and then , by tears of repentance , and the merits of my Saviour , I shall be whiter in thy sight , than Snow .

8. Make me poor wretch to hear , and sensibly feel the joy and comfort , of remission of my sins : and let me find gladness in the promise of life eternal , that the spiritual bones of my soul , which thou hast broken with tentations ; and afflictions , may rejoyce , and give thee thanks and praise .

9 Hide and turn away thy face , and wrathfull countenance , from my sins , lay them not to my charge : and blot out of thy Register all mine iniquities , that they never appear to condemn me .

10 Create in me ( polluted ) a clean and pure heart , O God , the Creator of all things , and renew by thy Grace , a right and sanctified Spirit in me .

11 Cast me not away , into the pit of desperation , by debarring me from thy presence , where ( only ) is fulness of joy , and take not for ever , thy Holy Spirit of comfort from me .

12 Restore unto me rather the unspeakable joy of thy Salvation in Christ Jesus , which they feel in their consciences , whose sins thou remittest : and when I am reinstated in thy favour , uphold and keep me , from falling again , with thy free , powerfull , and saving Spirit .

13 Then , even when I shall be restored , I will , by word of exhortation , and example of conversation , teach transgressors how they shall keep thy wayes and Commandements : and by that means ( thy Grace assisting ) they , which now are sinners , shall forsake their wickedness , and shall be truly converted unto thee .

14 Deliver me , and quit me , from my former bloody offences , and keep me henceforth , from blood-guiltiness , and carnal corruptions , O God , my Protector : Thou God , which art my Redeemer , and the Author of my Salvation : and , all the dayes of my life , my tongue , for joy thereof , shall sing unto thee , and that aloud , and chearfully : and praise thy Name , by extolling of thy righteousness , who dost justifie sinners , and art merciful to the penitent .

15 O Lord , that givest wisdom to the simple , open thou my lips , which are closed by sin , from doing any service unto thee : and then , with boldness , my mouth shall utter , and shew forth thy praise : For to thee alone belongeth all Honour and Glory .

16 For thou , O God , desirest not , that I should offer the Sacrifice of Goats and Calves , to expiate my offences , else would I willingly give it , and lay it on thy Altar : but thou ( having , by sending thy Son Christ Jesus , abrogated the Ceremonies of the Law ) delightest not any longer in burnt Offerings , but in obedience to thy Commandements .

17 The Sacrifices accepted of God , and whereby we are in Christ reconciled to him , are a broken and humble Spirit , dejected with the sight of sin : a broken and contrite heart , truly mortified and repentant , O God , thou hast promised , that thou wilt not despise , but lovingly accept .

18 Do good , O God , in thy good pleasure , and be favourable and gracious unto Sion , thy Catholick Church : Build thou , upon a sure Foundation of Religion , and establish the hearts of thy Saints and Servants , the walls of thy Church , Ierusalem .

19 Then shalt thou , in Christ Jesus , be pleased with us , and with the Sacrifice of Righteousness , in thy Congregation . And with burnt Offerings and Oblations of our hearts . Then shall they , thy Servants thus established , offer Bullocks : the Sacrifice of praise , upon thine Altar , in thy presence , to the honour of thy most holy Name .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 102.

HEar my Prayer , which , in the bitterness of my Soul , I make to thee , O Lord , whose mercy is the Sanctuary of distressed sinners : and let nothing stand between that mercy and me , which may hinder my cry to come to thee .

2 Hide not thy face , turn not away thy countenance from me , as if thou wert offended at me , but rather , in the day of adversity , when I am in trouble and sorrow , encline thine ear of pity unto me , and that right soon and speedily .

3 For my dayes , which I have mis-spent , are consumed away like smoke , which for want of substance , dissolveth to nothing , and my bones , which by my broken spirit , are dryed up , are burnt up as a fire-brand .

4 My heart is dejected , and smitten with the thought of thy Justice , and it is withered , with remembrance of thy Judgements , like grass , without juyce or sap : so that in this anguish of Soul , I forget , and loath to eat my bread .

5 By reason of the grievous voice of my groaning , sighs , and tears , I am so consumed away , that my bones , for want of flesh , cleave to my skin , and I am nothing but skin and bone .

6 I am ( for shame that I have offended thee ) become in condition like a Pelican , that liveth solitarily in the Wilderness : and I am like an Owl , not daring to be seen , but that avoideth the light , and is continually in the Desert , shunning the company of other Birds .

7 I watch , and sleep not , for the thought of my sins , and am as a Sparrow , that caring for no company , sitteth alone , making grievous lamentation in a mournful note , upon the house-top .

8 Mine Enemies , seeing me thus penitent , reproach me , with opprobrious speeches , all the day , continually deriding me : and they that ( while I was their companion in sin ) applauded me , are , upon my conversion , mad against me , and do combine , and are sworn to do me mischief , and to that end set themselves against me .

9 For this cause , taking no pleasure in this world , I have eaten ashes , and fed upon course meat , like as it were fine bread , and dainty fare , and I have mingled my drink with tears , weeping , and lamenting for my sinnes .

10 Because of thine indignation against me for them , and thy wrath for my bad life past , all this evil and more hath befallen me , for thou hast lifted me up very high , and from thence hast cast me down , that my fall might be the greater .

11 My dayes , few and evil , are passed like a shadow upon a Sun-Dyal , that declineth toward the Evening : and I that lately seemed to flourish , am withered , and dryed up , like grass , without sap , for want of thy comfort .

12 But thou , O Lord , which wert and art , shalt continue immutable , and shalt endure for ever , while all transitory things pass , and come to nothing : and thy glorious works , shall be had in remembrance unto all generations , even unto the end of the world .

13 Thou , O Lord , who seemest to men to sleep , shalt arise in thy strength , and have mercy and compassion upon Sion , thy Church militant , now oppressed with the tyranny of Antichrist : for the time to look upon her , and favour her , is at hand , yea the set time , which thou hast decreed for her deliverance , is , or will not be long ere it come .

14 For they which be thy true and faithfull Servants take pleasure and delight in her stones ( their fellow Servants ) and are glad when they see them prosper : and favour , and pity the very dust and ruines thereof , when they see them under persecution .

15 So , that when they shall be delivered from their misery , the very heathen shall fear and tremble at the Name of the Lord , and be converted to him : and all the Kings and Potentates on earth , which now oppose the truth , shall acknowledge thee , O Lord , to be the King of Kings , and Lord of Lords , and be afraid at the greatness of thy glory and Majesty .

16 When the Lord , by his almighty power , shall build up Sion , and repair the ruines of his Church , he shall then , to the confusion of his enemies , appear in his glory , which they shall not be able to endure .

17 He will then in mercy regard , and hearken to the prayer of his poor servants , and the destitute of his help : and not any longer seem to turn away his face from them , nor despise their prayer , and earnest supplications .

18 This mercy of his , shall then be recorded and written as a remembrance for the generations to come , even to the end of the world , which shall attempt the like against his Church : and the people , yet unborn , that shall succeed and be created , in ages to come , shall praise and magnifie the Lord , which only doth marvellous things .

19 For he hath in mercy , by sending his Son Christ Jesus , looked down from the height of his Sanctuary , his holy place : even from Heaven , his Fathers bosom , did the Lord Jesus behold the Earth , and had compassion upon all the Sons of men .

20 To hear and pity the groaning of the Prisoners , such as did groan under the burden of the Law , and to loose , and set at liberty , by his passion and intercession , those of the posterity of Adam , that are appointed to suffer death , for not fullfiling the same .

21 To the end , that they being so delivered , may declare , and shew the power , and the Name of the Lord , which is Jesus the Saviour , in Sion , his Church : and magnifie and extol his praise in Ierusalem , his holy habitation .

22 When the faithful people , which are yet dispersed over the face of the Earth , are gathered together , and made one Congregation , and the Kingdoms of the Earth , which are yet in darkness , are instructed to serve thee , the only Lord of Heaven and Earth .

23 He , even the Lord , in the time of this expectation , hath weakned and abated my strength , so that I can do no good of my self , in the way of this my earthly pilgrimage : he hath shortned and cut off my dayes , by afflicting me for my sin .

24 I said , yet in this weakness , and anguish of my Soul , O my God , with-draw not now thy mercy from me , and take me not away out of this world in the midst of my dayes , the chief time of my strength ; as for thy years , as they are from all eternity , so shall they endure , throughout all generations , even for ever .

25 Of old , at the beginning of time , hast thou , of thine own power , laid and created the Foundations of the Earth , the visible World , and all things in it : and the Heavens , and Firmament thereof , are the only work of thy Almighty hands and power .

26 They , even Heaven and Earth ; and all things in them , shall pass away and perish , from the form they now have : but thou , O Lord , the Creator of them , shalt endure immutable . Yea , without all doubt , all of them , as thou hast decreed , shall wax old , and consume with age , like a garment long worn , and as a vesture , or garment , shalt thou , by the sound of the last Trump , change and dissolve them , and they shall yield to thy power , and be changed .

27 But thou , O Lord , art the same , alwayes unchangeable : and thy years , being from all Eternity , shall have no end , but continue for ever .

28 The Children , and posterity of thy faithful Servants , begotten by the seeds-men of thy Word , shall continue in grace in this life : and their righteous seed shall stand fast , and be established for ever , together with them in glory hereafter , and enjoy everlasting happiness before thee , in thy blessed presence .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 130.

OUt of the depth of tentations , dangers , and sorrow for my sins , wherein my Spirit is almost overwhelmed , have I , by fervent prayer , cryed and called unto thee , O Lord , who only art able to give me relief .

2 Lord , of thy mercy haste thee , and hear my voice and petition , and deliver me from my misery , O my God , let thine ears of pity and compassion be attentive to consider and well weigh the lamentable voice of my humble supplications , and let not my prayer return unpitied or unheard of thee .

3 If thou , Lord , contrary to thy disposition , shouldest be so exact and extreme , as in the rigour of thy justice , to mark the iniquities , which we by our natural corruption daily fall into , and punish us accordingly : O good Lord , who ? none , not the most upright , shall be able to answer one for a thousand , or stand before thee , Iob 3. 3. ( without much horrour ) at the Judgement Seat .

4 But , for the comfort of poor wretched sinners , and to keep us from utter desperation , we find it recorded by the holy Spirit , that there is forgiveness of sins , and mercy toward sinners repenting , with thee , by Jesus Christ , who came to save them : and yet , this mercy of thine is tyed with such conditions , that thou , who also art just , mayest be also feared , lest thy lenity be abused .

5 I , for my part , wait , and confidently expect , for the Lord , to receive mercy from him : My sinful , but repentant Soul , waits to receive consolation : and in his Word ( whereby he promiseth mercy to repentant sinners ) do I hope , and place my whole confidence , Heb. 10. 23. because I know , that he which hath promised is just .

6 My sinful Soul , in this expectation , waiteth for the Lord , and tarryeth his good pleasure to comfort it , more earnestly than they that , in a disconsolate long night , watch for the morning : Yea , ( I say it again ) more zealously than they that are weary of the night , and watch for the light of the morning .

7 Let Israel , and all Gods faithful people , hope still , and put their trust in the goodness of the Lord : and not without cause : for with the Lord , though he justly take vengeance on us for our sins , yet there is , ever was , and will be found , mercy towards penitent sinners : and with him , by Jesus Christ , is not only forgiveness for a few sins , but plenteous redemption from the captivity of the Devil and Sinne.

8 And he , even Jesus Christ , by his merits and intercession , shall redeem and save Israel , and each of his faithful servants , from all his iniquities , and the punishment due for them .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 143.

HEar my earnest and humble prayer , O Lord , which in my misery I make unto thee , Give ear , and be not deaf to my supplicatious , in the time of my distress : but in thy faithfulness and truth , which endureth for ever , answer me , and grant my petition , which I make , not trusting in any merits of mine own , but in thy righteousness .

2 And my further petition to thee is , that thou enter not into the Throne of thy Iudgement , by strictly examining my mis-deeds , and dealing rigorously with me thy poor servant , who hath mis-spent his talent : for in thy all-seeing sight , shall no man living in this vale of misery , be justified , or found innocent .

3 For , the Old Enemy of mankind , the Devil , hath by his malice persecuted , and sought to entrap my Soul , to separate it from the love of thee : he hath smitten , and cast my life and Soul down to the ground , and filled me full of earthly desires , he hath made , and caused me to dwell , and take pleasure in the darkness of of my sins , as those that are without sense , and have been long dead .

4 Therefore , O Lord , considering my desperate estate , is my spirit overwhelmed with grief within me , and my heart is disquieted within me , and is also desolate , and sore troubled .

5 I yet , in the midst of the sorrows that are in my heart , do remember what I have read and heard , what thou hast done in the dayes of old , how that thou hast been gracious to the penitent , and severe against the unrepentant sinner . I meditate also on all thy works , but especially on that of thy mercy , and I muse , and exercise my self in contemplating on the works of thy hands , admiring thy Power , and Wisdom , in the Creation of all things .

6 I stretch forth , and lift up my hands in my prayers unto thee , O Lord : my Soul ( which is dry for want of the dew of thy grace ) thirsteth after thee , for the water of life , as a thirsty land , in a time of drought .

7 Hear me , and answer me speedily , delay not , O Lord , for my spirit waxeth faint , and faileth me in my devotion : Oh hide not thy face and loving countenance from me miserable sinner , lest it come to pass , that I be like in condition unto them that go down headlong after their own inventions , into the pit of destruction and perdition .

8 Cause me by thy Spirit , to hear and feel thy loving kindness and mercy in the morning speedily , lest I perish : for in thee only , and not in the help of Men or Angels , do I place my whole trust and confidence : Cause me , by thy grace , to know and learn the way of thy testimonies , wherein I should , and ought to walk , without declining to the right hand or the left : For I lift up my soul , by prayer and repentance , unto thee , who only canst direct me aright .

9 Desiver me , O Lord , by thy power , from all mine Enemies , visible and invisible , for I flee , and make haste for succour unto thee , as to my Protector , to hide and defend me from their violence .

10 Teach and instruct me ( that am ignorant ) to do thy Will , and those things which thou commandest , for thou art thy God and Director : Thy Spirit is good , and all-sufficient for me : Lead me therefore by it , into the right way , which bringeth into the Land of Righteousness and Truth .

11 Quicken me again , O Lord , and revive me from the death of sin , for thy Names sake , which is Jesus , and for thy Righteousness sake , and love to goodness , bring my Soul by thy grace , out of the trouble and anguish whereinto my sins have brought me .

12 And of thy tender mercy and compassion cut off , and kill in me mine Enemies , the concupiscences of the flesh , and destroy and confound all them , that with injuries and tentations afflict and disquiet my Soul , which is wholy devoted to thee : for I am thy servant , and Son of thy Handmaid , and desire to serve thee in holiness and righteousness all the dayes of my life .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Directions before Receiving the Holy Communion .

AS many as desire to be partakers of the holy Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ ( as of necessity every one must be , that intendeth to receive benefit by him ) ought , before the taking of it , to prepare his Soul , and fit it , for the due receiving of it , and not come to it carelesly , without due examination of himself , and respective consideration of the excellency and worth thereof . And therefore , before the time of communicating , we ought to spend some hours or dayes ( the more the better ) in meditating upon the great and unspeakable love and mercy of God towards us miserable sinners , in ordaining so powerful a means to purge and cleanse us , and bring us to him : in believing all his promises made to us in Christ Iesus , in applying them to our selves ; in performing the works of charity ; in examining in what estate our Souls do stand ; in calling to mind our sins , and confessing them to God ; in grieving and repenting for them , and that in all humility and godly sorrow ; in returning with the Prodigal ; Lu. 15.20 smiteing our breasts with the Publican ; Lu. 18.13 weeping with Mary Magdalen ; Luc. 7.58 . begging mercy with the Thief on the Cross ; and lastly , in promising to God , to lead a better life for the time to come .

Thus if we do , no doubt , but we shall be welcome Guests to this Feast , as being of that number for whom it was prepared . For by how much the more we come prepared to take this Sacrament , so much the greater shall be the grace which we shall receive by it .

There are four Duties required in every Communicant . First , Faith , to believe , that Iesus Christ did , and suffered all things , which are written of him in the Holy Scriptures , for the Redemption of Mankind . Secondly , Repentance , by which a man ( confessing his sins to God , with a purpose to lead a new life ) is reconciled to him . Thirdly , Reverend Behaviour , that in all humility , we make our selves fit Guests for such a Feast . Fourthly , Meditation and Attention , that we , during tht time of the administration of the Sacrament , attend no earthly thoughts , but wholly fix our Souls upon our Saviour Christ , and meditate on nothing but this great and high benefit , and thereby be enflamed with a hearty love , and thankful mind to God , not only for his infinite love , in suffering so great things for us , but also for instituting this blessed Sacrament , to remain to the end of the World , as a sure pledge of his continuance among us , and perpetual care over us .

After we have communicated , and are refreshed we ought also to be thankful to God , for so great a benefit ; ( Thankfulness being not the least Duty of this Service ; The Sacrament it self being called Eucharistia , which is Thanksgiving ) and to strive to imitate him as well in life as death : to live purely , and not to defile our Souls again , being purged and cleansed by the powerful operation of this blessed Sacrament : that so by Examination , Meditation , Thanksgiving , and constant Resolution of Amendment , We may worthily receive Christ into our Souls and be made members of his mystical body .

Meditations and Prayers before the Communion .

VVHat am I , O Lord , that I should be so bold as to come near to thee ? what am I ? that I should attempt to receive this so great and high mystery ? what is man by nature , but a vessel of corruption , unapt to any good , propense and most ready to any evil ? What is man , but a creature , of all others most wretched ? blind in judgement , inconstant in his actions , unclean in his desires , and ( though small in desert , yet ) proud and great in his own conceit ? Thou seest , O Lord , what I am . But thou , O Lord , art great , good , wise , and eternal : omnipotent in strength , wonderfull in wisdom , deep in thy counsells , terrible in thy judgements , and absolutely perfect , in all thy works . How then dare I , that am so base and unclean a creature , Iob. 15.15 approach to the Feast of so great a God , and a Lord of so great a Majesty ? Behold the Heavens are not clean in thy sight , and the Pillars of Heaven shake and tremble at thy word . Saint Iohn the Baptist ( who was sanctified in his Mothers Womb ) professed himself not worthy to unloose the latchet of thy shooes . Job . 1.27 . Saint Peter cryed out to thee , to depart from him a sinfull man , How then , can I , the chief of all sinners , but tremble at thy presence ? O Lord , I fear that ( being thus wretched and unfit ) I shall not be admitted to this Feast , Mat. 22. 2● . but rather be repelled , for want of a wedding garment , even the garment of a sanctified Soul . For my whole life hath been so wretchedly and lewdly spent , and my dayes have been so wickedly wasted , that I hourly seem to renew thy passion . Many a time I have ( with Iudas ) sold thee , for a small sum of pleasure or profit , Mat. 26. 22. and now in coming to receive thee unworthily , Mat. 24. 26. what doe I else , but with him , betray thee with a kiss ? How then shall I dare to receive thee , in so desperate and wicked estate ? How canst thou abide or dwell in so loathsome a Dungeon , wherein , there is no part , room , or corner clean ? O Lord , I acknowledge mine unworthiness , and yet withall thy mercies are not hid from me : and by them , I am encouraged to come , with confidence unto thee , for by how much the unworthier I come unto thee , by so much the more will thy mercy be glorified , if thou do not reject me . Lord , thou art not wont to put sinners back , but to call , and set them forward to repentance . Wherefore , O Lord , animated by thy calling , and invitation I come unto thee , overburthened with the weight of my sins , hoping to find ease and relief of thee . Thy custome ( while thou wert upon earth ) was to receive sinners , and to eat with them : and thy delight was to be with the Sons of men , Luc , 15 . 2● If thou , O Lord , be still pleased with such guests , behold one here at this time , of that kind , a notorious sinner . I verily believe thou tookest more pleasure in the tears of the sinfull Woman , than in the great feast of the proud Pharisee , Luc. 7.38 , 47 , and for a few tears of hers , didst forgive many sins unto her . Behold , O Lord , new matter offered for thy great mercy to work upon . Here lyeth a sinner who hath many more sins than she , but fewer tears by many : who though he hath more grievously offended , yet doth more carelesly bewayle his offences than she did . She was neither the first , nor the last , whom thou in thy mercy didst receive to favour . O Lord let me also be one of the subjects of this thy mercy , and although I have not tears sufficient to wash thy feet , yet thou hadst shed drops of blood , more than sufficient , to cleanse my sins . I read , O Lord , in the Gospel , Luc 16 , 17 , 18 , that all that were diseased flocked to thee ; and ( by that vertue which came out of thee ) were healed : and I verily perswade my self , that thy Nature is not changed : for in thee is , and will be to the end of the world , health and remedy for all griefs : and thou art readier to make us whole , than we are to ask health of thee . I know O Lord , that this Sacrament ( which I so earnestly long after ) is not only meat for those that are in health , but Physick also for the sick : and doth not only refresh the righteous , but cleanseth those that are sinners also . If I be weak , by it I shall be strengthned , If in health , in health by it I shall be preserved , and if dead in sin , by it I shall be revived . I humbly therefore intreat thee , O Father , that ( as as David did admit . 2 Sam. 9. Mephibosheth to his Table for his Fathers sake : so ) thou wouldest suffer me to be partaker of thy heavenly Table , for thy Sons sake , who with so great labour and sorrow , did regenerate us , by his death on the Cross , and liveth and reigneth with thee , and the Holy Spirit , for ever .

Prayers before the Communion .

O Almighty Lord God , Father of all mercie , and consolation , I humbly beseech thee to behold with the eye of pity , my poor and wretched soul , which though thou didst create after thine own Image , and washedst with the blood of thy dear Son , yet I have so abominably defiled and defaced with the stain of sin , that it can hardly be known , O Father , I was thy sonne , whom thou didst to lovingly imbrace and load with blessings , and who was in thy house in great honour and dignity : In the Sacrament of Baptisme thou didst adopt me , and gavest me the inheritance of a sonne and heir , but I unthankfully and prodigally , by my evil life , have wasted my Patrimony : I have wickedly abused the flower and prime of my youth , and the good parts and faculties of my soul and body , with the pleasures of the flesh , pride , surfetting , envy , lust , covetousness , ideness , rebellion , and disobedience : and now , at the last , I find that all the temporal delights of the flesh , and the World , are altogether vain , and vanish like smoak . For all flesh is grass , and all the Glory of man , is but like the flower of the field , Esa. 40.6 . 1 Pet. 1.14 . and is suddenly gone . He that is rich to day , to morrow becommeth poor and miserable ; he that walketh in health , and strength of body to day , to morrow is ( by sickness ) made feeble and weak ; he that liveth to day , the next day dieth ; and he , which to day glorieth in the greatest pomp , to morrow is laid in his Coffin , and carried to his Grave . Therefore , O Lord , consider the weakness and frailty of man , and turn away , I pray pray thee , thy face from my sins , and remember not them so , in thine anger , that thou forget either thine own mercy , or my weakness . By mine own fault , I confess , O Lord , and by my evil conversation , I have made my self unworthy of thy favour , and by my evil concupiscences , I have grievously wounded my conscience , I have often grieved thy holy Spirit , by not hearkning to the good motions thereof , but yeilding to my sensual lust , and beastly appetite . Yet , O mercifull Father , cast me not utterly from thy sight : for from the beginning of the world , it was not heard , that thou didst reject any sinner , that with a contrite heart came unto thee . Behold I come unto thee in great necessity , and cast my self at thy feet , confessing the greatness , and multitude of my sins . They have brought me into that evil state and condition , that I am not worthy to be called thy Son , yet I pray thee receive me into the number of thy hired Servants . Luc. 15. 2● . Give me grace , heartily to repent me of my sins , feed and cherish me with the bread and drink of the Body and Blood of thy Son Christ Iesus , that by thy mercy , I may be received to grace , and restored to the former dignity , from which I am worthily cast , and to the inheritance of thy everlasting Kingdom , through the same our Saviour Iesus Christ .

Another .

O Blessed Saviour , I poor unworthy sinner , have a great desire , and earnest longing to come to thy Table , but considering my many and grievous sins , tremble , and fear to approach unto it . For when I consider thy words to thy Disciples , Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of Man , and drink his blood , you have no life in you : Joh. 6.59 . And on the other side , I Cor. 11. 27. the words of the Apostle , whosoever shall eat this Bread , and drink this Cup of the Lord unworthily , shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord , I am in such a streight , that I know not what to do : For gladly would I receive this Sacrament , being desirous to live : but fearful I am to take it unworthily , trembling at thy Comination . I come therefore to thee , the Fountain of Mercy , hoping that thou wilt wash me . I come to thee , the good Samaritan , Lu. 10.34 hoping that thou wilt cleanse my wounds . I open my grief , and discover my iniquities to thee ; I look upon my sins , great and grievous , and thereupon tremble : yet beholding thy mercies , great and plentiful , I am therewith again refreshed . Remember , O Lord , how many drops of Sweat and Blood thou didst shed , how many Pains and Sorrows thou didst sustain , to expiate my sins . I intreat thee therefore by them , to purge and purifie me , that I may worthily be incorporated into thy body , which is thy Church , and may worthily also receive this blessed Sacrament : that so , together with thy whole Church , I may give thee praise everlastingly .

Or thus .

O Merciful Lord Iesus , I confess my self to be a most grievous and wretched sinner , not worthy to approach into thy presence , altogether unfit and unmeet to receive thee under the roof of my Soul , Luc. 7.6 , in respect of the stains and pollutions thereof , and that it is not decked and fitted with such good graces as thy Majesty and Presence requireth , and therefore am afraid to come near unto thee . Yet O Lord , considering thy comfortable saying , Eze. 33. 11. that Thou dost not desire the death of a sinner , but that he should turn unto thee , and live : and thy blessed invitation , how lovingly , with the armes of thy mercy stretched out , thou hast called all , that are heavily oppressed with the burden of their sins , Mat. 11. 28. to come to thee for comfort and ease . And lastly , thy usual practice , in pitying and relieving those which were cast down with the thought of their misdeeds ; as the Thief on the Cross , Luc. 23. 7. Mary Magdalen , John 8. the Woman taken in Adultery , the Publican , Luc. 18. Peter , Luc. 26. and Paul , ( all of them grievous sinners ) I am comforted , and emboldned to come unto thee , assuredly trusting , that thou wilt ( of thy goodness ) supply my defects , and make me a worthy receiver of the high mystery and benefit of thy blessed Sacrament , whereof of my self I am altogether unworthy . Stretch out thy right hand , O sweet Iesu , to me thy poor servant , and give out of thy rich store-house of mercy , what I want : that thereby I may be made a living Temple to thee , and an acceptable habitation for thine honour to abide in . And grant , that being cleansed by thy mercy and goodness , I may by thy grace and power , persevere in all godliness and holiness of conversation , to the end of my days , and attain to that blessed place , where thou reignest , with the Father , and Holy Spirit , world without end , Amen .

Meditations and Prayers after th Sacrament Received .

IF all the Creatures in the world should offer themselves together with me , to praise thee , O Lord , yet is it certain , that we could not give thee sufficient thanks for the least of thy mercies : and if together we cannot sufficiently praise thee for the least , how much less can I alone perform so great a duty , for such inestimable blessings , as I have at this time received ? for vouchsafing to visit me , comfort me , and honour me with acceptance and admittance to thy blessed Table . If Elizabeth the Mother of Iohn Baptist , ( upon the Virgin Maries entrance to her house ) said , Luc. 1.43 . Whence is it , that the Mother of my Lord should come to me ? What shall I say , whom the Lord himself hath visited and united to him , by his blessed Sacrament , being a vessel and receptacle of all impurity , who hath so often offended , despited , and neglected him ? Psal. 8.4 . King David wondred why God should so esteem of , or visit man ; but I wonder much more , why he should be made man for man , abide with him , suffer death for him , and give himself to him for spiritual food . Solomon , after he had built a Temple to God , reasoned thus , 1 Ki. 8.17 . But will God dwell indeed on the Earth ? Behold , the Heaven of Heavens cannot contain thee , how much loss this House that I have builded ? May not I much more marvel , that God will not disdain to come and abide in this my poor and wretched Soul ? What greater benefit of grace , what greater argument of his love is there , can there be shewed to me ? Oh my Soul , if thou wouldest but throughly conceive the happiness that cometh to thee by this holy Sacrament , then consider , and well weigh , what benefits it bringeth with it . By it the Sons of Men are made the Sons of God , and all that is earthly or carnal in us , is mortified , that the Deity may live and abide with us . What therefore , O my Lord , shall I do ? What thanks shall I render to thee ? With what fervency shall I love thee ? For , if thou , so mighty a Lord , hast vouchsafed to love me , poor wretched creature , how should it be , but that I should return love again to thee ? And how shall I express my love better , than in forbearing those things which thou dost abhorr , and following those things which thou dost command ? Give , O Lord , to this end , thy concomitant grace to me , whereby I may return a reciprocal love to thee , and love those things which are acceptable , and avoid those things which are to thee unpleasing . Give me a heart which may love thee , with so true , faithful , and constant affection , as that nothing under the Sun may separate me from the love of thee . Rom. ● . 39 Let me not follow the love of the World , or delight in the vanities of it any longer : but give me power to kill and quench all other love and desires , and to love thee only , desire thee only , and only think of thee , and thy Commandements : that all my affections and thoughts may be fixed on thee , that in all tentations and adversities , I may have recourse to thee only , and receive all comfort from thee alone , who livest and reignest , one God , world without end , Amen .

Another .

I Humbly thank thee , O sweet Saviour Jesus Christ , that thou hast so plentifully refreshed my drie and fainting Soul , with the holy Sacrament of thy precious Body and Blood . I earnestly intreat thee further , that whatsoever is in me vicious , or contrary to thy blessed will , may by vertue of this blessed Sacrament , be rooted out of me , that my Soul may become a fit habitation for thy holy Spirit . Let it be to me the absolution of my sins , the confirmation of my faith , and encrease of all thy graces in me , the viands of this my peregrination and pilgrimage , the only delight of my soul ; peace and joy in tribulation ; health and strength in affliction and tentation . Let it be a light and guide to my actions , and my only comfort in the day of my dissolution . Let the Palate of my Soul be so changed thereby , that it may relish nothing besides thee . Grant also , that I may hunger and thirst after this bread of life , and cup of salvation , and that I may with a pure mind , and chast affection , receive it often , that thereby my soul and body may be preserved to life everlasting ; to thee be all praise , power , and dominion ascribed now and for ever .

Or thus .

I Yield thee all possible thanks , O merciful Lord , that of thy own meer goodness , and without any merit of mine , thou hast so plentifully at this time satisfied me , with the extraordinary food of my Soul , thy blessed Body and Blood . O Lord , I heartily repent me of my sins past , and am heartily sorry , when I consider how unprofitably and wickedly I have spent my life hitherto : I desire , O Lord , to amend what is amiss in me : be thou ayding ( I beseech thee ) to me , that I may not only duly bewail and lament for that which is past , but take heed to my wayes for the time to come . And to this end , O Lord , do thou strengthen me with thy spiritual ayd , for without thy help , and the direction of the Holy Spirit , I shall not be able to do any good thing , or perform that which is pleasing to thee . Grant , O Lord , that I may hereafter faithfully follow and serve thee , who hast at this time so lovingly vouchsafed to come to me . And because ( through my infirmity ) I cannot follow thee as I would , be pleased to assist me with thy power , aud draw me after thee : Let my Soul be so strengthned by vertue of this Sacrament , that it may esteem nothing pleasing or delightful in comparison of thee : that it may lust after no transitory thing , nor be disquieted with any worldly cross ; but , by thy assisting grace , I may overcome all the difficulties of this life , and bless thee in the life to come .

Or thus .

O Blessed Lord Iesus , who , of thy unspeakable Love , hast condescended to my infirmity , and vouchsafed in these mysteries to come unto me , and hast made me partaker of thy blessed Body and Blood . I humbly intreat thee , of thy infinite goodness , not to look back upon my sinful life past , and to give me grace to obey thy Commandements , hereafter , and not to return to those former sins , 2 Pet. 2. 22. as a Dog to his vomit . Grant , that this most holy Sacrament may be to me life and salvation , and not turn to my greater punishment and condemnation . Grant , that it may cleanse my Soul from sin past , and strengthen me against all tentations to come . Grant , that it may be so wholesome and nourishing to me , that I may walk in the strength thereof all the dayes of my life : and at last be brought by thy merits , to that place of Glory , where thou dost reign , together with the Father , and the Blessed Spirit , forever .

Psal. 103. Praise the Lord , O my Soul , and all that is within me , praise his Holy Name .

Praise the Lord , O my Soul , and forget not all his benefits .

Which forgiveth all thy sin , and healeth all thine infirmities .

Which saveth thy life from destruction , and crowneth hee with mercy and living kindness .

Which satisfieth thy mouth with good things , &c.

Motives to Thanksgiving .

IT is not the least part of the Duty of a Christian , in the sight of God , to be thankful to him for the benefits he daily bestoweth upon us . For as God is kind , merciful , and loving to us : so he expecteth that we should render back thanks to him for those blessings which we receive from him . For we have nothing else to retribute to him , but a thankful memorial of his blessings . And this King David well understood , when he said , Psal. 116. 12 , 7. What shall I render to the Lord for all the benefits he hath done unto me ? I will offer to thee the Sacrifice of Thanksgiving , &c. As therefore we ought to be diligent in Prayer , for those things we want : so ought we also to be perpetually thankful for them , when we have obtained what we desire . And when we have done al that we can , we cannot give him due praise and thanks for the least part of that which we daily receive . For if we respect that which is past , present , or to come , we shall still meet with matter enough , which expresseth his goodness and love to us , and exacteth this Duty from us . If we consider that which is past , then we shall soon perceive , that but for him , we had not been at all , nor been preserved hitherto , amongst so many dangers , without his protection : If that which is present , we cannot but acknowledge , that by his alone goodness we live and enjoy those blessings wherewith we are loaded , beyond desert : If that which is to come , he is our hope , of all good things which we desire or expect , either for this life , or for the life to come . And as God accounteth Thanksgiving a Duty , Ps. 50.23 . 15. so he taketh it for an Honour done unto him , if we perform it . He hath so much esteemed of it alwayes , even from the beginning , that he reputed and accounted it above the rest of the Sacrifices offered unto him . Besides we may consider , that in the Law , Ose. 14.2 . God himself instituted a peculiar and special Sacrifice of oblation of thanks . Mal. 1.11 . For the Feast of the Paschal Lamb , Exod. 12. was no other thing but an Eucharistical , or thankful service , in remembrance of the wonderfull deliverance of the Jews from their servitude . Our Saviour also instituted the Sacrament of the Eucharist , Luc. 22. for a perpetual remembrance , and memorial of all his benefits to Mankind , especially of our Redemption by his death . Hest. 9. Hester established a Feast to preserve a thankfull memory of the Jews deliverance from the plots of Haman . And in brief , Exo. 15. it was generally evermore the practice of Gods Saints , to express this Duty , Deut. 32. as may be seen by many Songs , Judges 5. Hymnes , 1 Sam. 2. Psalms , Ps. 34.96 . 103. 107. 111. 113. &c. and Prayers of Thanksgiving , which are left unto us in the Scriptures , as patterns for us to imitate . Of Moses and Miriam . Of Moses alone . Esa. 38.10 Of Deborah . John 23. Of Hanna . Abac. 3.2 . Of David , Dan. 3. in divers places of the Psalms . Luc. 2. 19. Of good King Ezechias . 1. 68. Of Jonas . 1. 46. Of the Prophet Habakkuk . Of the three Chirldren . Of the Angels . Of Zachary . Acts 4.24 . Of the Blessed Virgin Mary . Rev. 5.12 . Of the Church . And of the Elders . And after those examples , of necessity we must frame our selves : for be sure of this , That whensoever praise and thanks shall sail , and be wantiug on our parts towards God , then presently God will withdraw his hand of mercy and bounty from us .

Thanksgiving .

I Thank thee , O merciful Father Lord of Heaven and Earth , for all thy mercies and favours continually heaped upon me : for that thou hast not only created me after thine own Image and likeness , Gen. 9.6 . and given to me a body with all the parts and members thereof , and a soul with all the powers and faculties thereof , that with them , and by them , I might know , love , and serve thee : but that thou hast so graciously preserved both body and soul , from time to time , from all dangers . Thou hast alwayes been my refuge in tribulations , and my defence and succour in adversities : When I went astray , thou didst reduce me into the right away ; when I offended thee , thou didst gently correct me ; when I was sad , thou didst comfort me ; and when ( for the grievousness of my sins ) I was ready to despair , thou of thy mercy and compassion didst strengthen me , and keep me from utter ruine . I acknowledge , O Lord , thy more than fatherly indulgence toward me , from my birth to this present time : for unless thou of thy goodness hadst upheld me , I had long ere this time been drowned and overwhelmed in the bottomless gulf of my sins . But thou hast delivered me from the jawes of the roaring Lyon , who hath daily sought to devour me , and hast defended me from all his snares and assaults . 1 Pet. 5.8 . And as thou hast of thy mercy preserved my soul from destruction , so thou hast oftentimes delivered my body from the gates of death , when many sicknesses and infirmities took hold of me . I thank thee also , O Lord , for all other thy temporal blessings , which thou in plentiful manner hast heaped on me , as Food , Rayment , Wealth , Possessions , and Children : For my health and liberty , for the prerogative which thou hast given me over all thy creatures , in their subjection to my service and use . I thank thee also , O sweet Saviour , for the infinite work of my Redemption , and for thy exceeding great love , in accomplishing that great work : that thou wouldest suffer so many torments , sorrows , labours , and griefs ; yea so bitter and disgraceful a death , even the death of Malefactors , to redeem me from a most desperate and certain state of damnation , ( which I most justly have fallen into ) to a state of glory , and immortality , which I by no means could have deserved . I thank thee also , O Lord , most holy , for all other thy spiritual graces and blessings , as my Regeneration , Vocation , Sanctification , for thy blessed Sacraments , for my Preservation , and hope of Glorification . O Lord , I am not sufficient to render unto thee condign thanks and praises for all these thy mercies : yet accept , I humbly pray thee , these poor and weak thanks , which I offer unto thee , according to my bounden duty and service , For as there is no hour of my life , wherein I do not enjoy thy favours , and taste of thy goodness : so ( if my frailty would permit ) I should spend no time of my life , without remembring them , and praising and blessing thee for the same ; Glory be therefore to thee , O Lord my Creator ; Glory be to thee , O Iesus my Redeemer ; Glory be to thee , O Holy Ghost my Sanctifier ; Glory to the high and undivided Trinity , whose works are inseparable , and whose dominion endureth world without end .

Another .

ALmighty and everliving God , I humbly thank thy Heavenly Majesty , for all thy blessings which thou hast vouchsafed to me , poor and sinful creature ; that thou hast created me , and given to me a body , the workmanship and excellency whereof , when I behold , and well consider , I find so many several benefits received , as I have members , veins , joynts , sinews , and nerves , all which discover and manifest the wisdom and power of the Maker of them : The benefit of which several parts , none can so well know , as they which want any of them , or are grieved with the infirmity or weakness of them . I therefore bless thee , that thou hast not created me blind , lame , deaf , or dumb , evil-shaped , or weak in my senses ; but hast given me a sound and right mind , in a healthful body . I further praise thy Name , O Lord , for that thou hast infused a soul into this my body : a work so glorious and transcendent , that if I were not altogether stupid , and void of all judgement , I would not by my actions account so basely of it as I seem to do , nor defile it with such impure , contemptible , and unclean works , as I daily commit . I thank thee , O Lord , that I was not born amongst Infidels , and amongst those who do not truly call upon thy Name ; but in that part of the world , where thy Gospel is truly preached , and thy Sacraments duly administred . I thank thee also , for thy gracious preservation of me , from my birth to this present hour : I confess , O Lord , that it is of thy mercy and goodness , that I am thus preserved : for if thou shouldest but withdraw thine hand of preservation from me , it could not be , but that in the twinkling of an eye , I should miserably perish , and return to nothing . I thank thee , that thou hast of thy providence appointed all thy Creatures for my sustenance and service : some for health , and some for delight : Grant , O Lord , that I may use them to those ends for which thou hast created them ; and that by them I may be moved truly to meditate on thy goodness , and seriously praise thee for them . I further thank thee , O Father , that when , as by our first Parents fall , all mankind was in the state of damnation , it pleased thee ( not to deal with us , as thou didst with Lucifer , whom thou utterly expelledst thy presence , but ) to send thy only Son from thy bosom into this world , that by his bitter death we might be restored to our former estate . I acknowledge , O Lord , that I owe much unto thee for my Creation , but much more for my Redemption ; For what would it have profited me ; nay , what misery should I not have suffered , to have been born , and afterward to be condemned for ever ? I thank thee , O Lord , that thou hast also vouchsafed to call me out of the depth of darkness , and shadow of death ( wherein I lay ) by the admirable light of thy justifying grace , to the true knowledge and love of thee . It is not the least of thy benefits , O Lord , it sheweth not the least part of thy power , that thou hast called me from so vile an estate , whereinto I had cast my self after Baptism ( and in the same had continued many years rebelliously ) to the estate of Salvation . For it must needs be acknowledged that thy mercy is great in pardoning sinners their offences : but withall , it cannot be denied , but that thy power is greater , in making sinners ; righteous and just . Great was the benefit of my Creation , but by that act , I was not only made the Son of man : but greater is the benefit of Iustification , for thereby ( in Christ ) I am made the Son of God . Great is the benefit of Redemption ( and indeed the greatest of all others ) but without Vocation and Iustification , it had availed me nothing . Great is the benefit which ariseth by the expectation of Glory : and no less is this of Iustification ; for it is a work of no less power to make a just man of a sinner , than to make a just man happy and blessed : for as much as the difference between sin and grace , is more than between Grace and Glory . I acknowledge therefore , O Lord , that the benefits which arise by these heavenly gifts and graces are so great , that my tongue faileth , and my heart wanteth ability , wherewith sufficiently to praise thee for them . I praise thee also , O Lord , for thy blessed Sacraments ; for that of Baptism , whereby I was cleansed from the guilt of original sins , and regenerated and adopted into the number of thy Children : and for the other , , of the blessed body and blood of our Saviour Iesus Christ : the Sacrament of Grace , Unity , Charity , and Remission of sins , the food of our Souls in this Pilgrimage , and the Conduit through which all graces are conveyed to our fainting Souls . Lastly , I thank thee , for thy preservation of me in thy Grace , by which I am restrained from returning to the mire with the washed Sow , and to the vomit with the Dog : 2. Pet. 2. and by which I am strengthned to doe something acceptable and pleasing unto thee . I confess , O Lord , that whatsoever good I have done , is wrought in me by thee : and whatsoever tentation or evil I escape , is meerly by thy providence . O Lord , continue , and keep me still in this grace , that I may so use all thy blessings , and so keep them in mind , that they may stir up in me , a more ardent desire to magnifie thy blessed Name , and a greater care of ordering my wayes hereafter : that I may no more grieve thy troubled Spirit , Ephes. 4. 30. who with thee , and thy blessed Son , our only Saviour liveth and reigneth one God , world without end .

Another .

ALL praise , honour , and glory be given to thee , O Lord God , Father Almighty , for all thy inestimable benefits bestowed upon me , and all mankind , whether private or publick , general or particular , spiritual or temporal . Who is able to reckon up or declare the several kinds or parts of them ? for creating the world , beautifying , enriching , and making it fruitful for the use of man : for giving unto us souls and bodies , and adorning them , with infinite faculties and gifts : and ( which exceeds the rest of thy blessings ) for delivering us from the power and servitude of sin and the Devil , for forbearing and expecting our repentance so loug , preserving us from all dangers , and furnishing us with all things necessary for this life .

What praise shall we render to thee , O sweet Iesus , for all that thou hast done , and suffered for us : VVee praise and bless thee , for thy Incarnation and Birth , for all the labours , pains , sorrows , wounds and disgraces , together with the vile and ignominious death which thou didst suffer , to reconcile us to thy Fathers favour , from which , our sins had justly excluded us : for which thy great love to the Sons of men , blessed be thy holy Name .

O holy and blessed Spirit , who in the beginning of time , didst move upon the face of the waters at our Saviours Baptism , Gen 1. 2. in the shape of a Dove : Mat. 3. 16. and on the Apostles in the shape of fiery tongues , Act. 2. 3. we praise and worship thee , for enlightning our understandings : for fitting and making us apt to conceive the mysteries of life eternal ; for converting us from evil conversation , to newness of life , and for sanctifying us to life everlasting : for directing us in the works of truth , and governing us in our temporal affairs .

O glorious and sacred Trinity , infuse into us we beseech thee , such measure of thy grace , that we may be dayly mindfull of all these thy blessings . Pardon all our former ingratitude and negligence , in that we have been no more zealous to love thee , nor more carefull to serve thee , and so forgetfull to thank thee , for all thy benefits and mercies . Illuminate our hearts , that we may firmly beleeve in thee , devoutly call upon thee , and obediently execute thy holy Will , that at the last we may by the merits and passion of thee , O Saviour , attain to that heavenly Mansion , where thou , O blessed Trinity in Unity , and Unity in Trinity abidest world without end .

I thank thee , O Lord , For my Creation . my being . my well being .

That I am indued with Reason .

That I am A civil man .

A Christian. Freeborn . Ingenious . Of honest Parents .

That I am sound in mind , Senses . Body .

That I am well brought up . taught .

I thank thee , For thy gifts of Nature . Grace . Estate .

For delivering me from Danger . Infamy . Trouble .

For the health of my body . A Competency of Estates . Friends . Children . Kindred .

I thank thee , O Lord , For thy Redemption . Regeneration . Instruction . Vocation . Consolation . Illumination . Iustification . Hope of glorification .

For thy patience toward me .

For thy Grace preventing me .

For Governing me .

For thy Continual care over me .

For Strengthning me in tentation .

For Reproving me in evil .

For Assisting me in good .

For the Conjunction of my heart .

For the hopes of pardon for my sins .

For the benefits I have received .

For any good done by me .

For all those that have done me good , by their Writings . Sermons . Conferences . Prayers . Examples . Reproofs . Injuries .

For all , and every of these , and for all other known , or unknown , remembred , or forgotten .

I confess , and will confess thee .

I bless , and will bless thee .

I thank , and will thank thee , as the Author and Giver of them all .

Seven Psalms of Thanksgiving Paraphrased .

Psalm . 8.

O Lord our God , Creator and Preserver of all things , how excellent , glorious , and reverend is thy great and holy Name , not in one particular Nation only , but in all the Kingdoms of the Earth , who , as thou hast magnified thy Name in the Earth so hast thou set and extolled thy glory above the Heavens also .

2 Out of the mouths and tongues of babes and sucklings , even very Infants , hast thou , because men of riper years and understanding neglect thy glory , ordained strength , and given little Children ability to praise thee , because of the malice of thine Enemies , the principalities of this world : that thou mightest , by this thy great wisdom , and power , still the tongues , & suppress the blasphemous speeches , of the Enemy and Avenger : when he shall see , that by such weak means , thou canst effect so great matters .

3 When I consider , and duly weigh , thy Heavens , and the glorious frame thereof , the work of thy fingers , made and created only by thee : together with the Moon , and the Stars , and other beautiful Lights of Heaven , which thou at the beginning of time , hast ordained of nothing , I cannot but in the depth of admiration say .

4 What is man , for whose use and service thou hast made them , and all things in this world , and him to serve thee ? That thou , so great and glorious a God , art mindful of him , in so large a manner : and what is the Son of man , the posterity of sinful Adam , that thou , in such measure of mercy , visitest and regardest him ?

5 For , if I look unto his Creation , and consider whose Image he beareth , I find , that thou hast made him in all respects , very little lower in degree , than the pure Angels , who are honoured with thy presence : and hast , of thy bounty , and especial favour , crowned him with glory and honour , in making him so glorious a Creature .

6 Thou madest , and hast appointed him also , thy Vicegerent on Earth , to have dominion and command over thy Creatures , the works of thy hands , and Creation : thou hast subjected , and put all things which thou hast made , under his feet , to obey and serve him .

7 All Sheep and Oxen , Beasts , for his food and sustentation , yea , and not those only , but the untamed beasts of the field also , hast thou made plyable and serviceable to him .

8 The Fowl of the Air , some for food , and some for pleasure and delight ; and the Fish of the vast Sea , which is stored with variety ; and whatsoever else passeth , swimmeth , or liveth through the unknown pathes of the Sea , are also created by thee , to serve him .

9 O Lord , our Lord , when I seriously consider thy power and wisdom , in thy work of Creation , and the especial honour and favour thou shewest to Mankind , in giving him this large Commission over the rest of thy Creatures , I cannot but admire , and say , how excellent and great is thy Name , and Power , in all the Kingdomes of the World ! There is none , O Lord , worthy to be compared to thee .

Glory be to the Father , to the Son , and to the Holy Ghost , &c.

Psalm 30.

I Will extoll thee , and praise thy Name , O Lord , as long as I live , and not without great cause , for thou , in thy mercy , hast lifted me up , and endowed me with thy blessings : and hast not made , no , nor suffered my Foes to work their will against me , who intended , if thou hadst forsaken me , to rejoyce and triumph over me .

2 O Lord , my God , and Saviour , I cryed , and made my humble supplication unto thee , in my trouble and adversity , and thou , of thy accustomed goodness , didst graciously hear me , and hast healed me , of all mine infirmities .

3 O Lord , thou , by the power of thy grace , hast brought up , and restored to life my sinful soul from the grave of perdition , whereinto my sins had well nigh cast me : Thou hast in thy love to me , kept me alive , and preserved me from many dangerous sicknesses , that I should not yet go down into the pit of death , but live , and praise thy holy Name .

4 Sing , and rejoyce unto the Lord , our God , ( O ye Saints , and faithful people of his , who have , with me , felt and tasted of his mercy ) and give thanks together with me , at the remembrance and consideration of his holiness .

5 For his anger and displeasure endureth towards sinners but a moment , and short space , if they truly turn unto to him : and if we seriously consider his mercies , we shall find , that in his favour is life to those that lye desparately sick in their sins , if he but touch them with his finger of grace : as for weeping , heaviness , and affliction , it may , and of necessity must , sometime befall his servants , but yet it shall endure , and afflict them for a night , a little while only : but joy and comfort commeth again to refresh them in the morning , by sending the light of his countenance upon them .

6 And , before I fully understood , how God useth to deal with his Servants , I was so confident of my self , that in my prosperity , when I felt the grace of God abundantly in me , I said , and presumed , that I was so fully setled in Gods favour , that I shall never fall , or be removed from it .

7 Lord , by thy favour and goodness , thou hadst fixed and made my mountain of grace to stand so strong , that I conceived my self so secure , that I could not slide back , or fall away : Yet after a while ; I found by experience , that I was in an errour , for thou didst but hide thy face , and a little while obscured thy grace from me , and , being left to my self , I found such an alteration , and defect in me , to do good , that I was therewith sore troubled , and disquieted .

8 I thereupon presently recalled my self , and cryed earnestly by prayer to thee , O Lord ; and betook my self unto the Lord , who never utterly forsaketh his Servants ; and to him I made my earnest supplication , never ceasing , till I obtained his return , and thus I said in my prayer .

9 What profit , O Lord , is there , can there be , in my blood , or death , when I go down into the pit , or if I dye in my sins ? surely none to thee , for thou delighten not in blood , or in the death of a sinner . Shall the dust , or they which are dissolved thereinto , before repentance , praise thee ? or shall it declare thy truth , and shew thy glory ? Nay , verily , they shall rather , in the horror of punishment , blaspheme thy Name . Suffer me not therefore , O Lord , to be of that reprobate number , of which I must needs be one , if thou absent thy self , or with-draw thy grace any longer from me .

10 Hear me therefore , O Lord , and that right soon , for my spirit waxeth faint , for want of thy gracious assistance : and have mercy upon me , in this distress . O Lord , I renounce all further confidence in mine own strength : be thou my only stay and helper . Upon this petition , the Lord heard my request , and thereupon I turned my prayer into a song of praise and said .

11 Thou , O Lord , art worthy of all honour and praise , for thou hast turned for me , and for my good , my mourning for thy absence , into dancing and joy for thy gracious presence : thou hast made me to put off my sad habit of sackcloath and sorrow , and instead thereof , hast girded and apparelled me with a vesture of gladness , even the peace of conscience . And all these things hast thou done for me .

12 To the end , that all my sorrow being removed , and I being delivered from all fear , my glory , tongue , and heart , together , may sing praise and thanks to thee , who hast done so great things for me : and that I should not be silent , in extolling thy mercy . And therefore , O Lord , my God , as thy goodness deserveth , and my duty requireth , I will , with all the affections and faculties of soul and body , give thanks unto thee , and praise thy Majesty for ever , as the only Author and finisher of my salvation .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 34.

I Will bless and praise the Lord , for all that he hath done unto me , at all times ; as well in adversity as prosperity , and his praise , as it shall ever be in my mind and heart , so shall it be continually without intermission , in my mouth , by declaring it to others .

2 My Soul especially , shall make her boast , and glory in the Lord , and not in any thing that is in me : so the humble , and they which are any way dejected , when they shall hear thereof , how gracious God hath been to me , shall in hope of the like mercy to them , rejoyce , and be glad also .

3 O ye , whosoever hath felt Gods favour , as I have , magnifie , and extoll the mercies of the Lord with me , for his goodness : and let us joyfully with one accord , exalt , and praise his Name together .

4 I my self , when I was in trouble , sought the Lord by prayer , and humiliation , and he rejected not my petition , but graciously heard me , and granted it ; and he not only delivered me from the danger I was in , but from all my fears also , which I conceived at it .

5 They also , that lived in former ages , ( our fore-Fathers ) whensoever they were distressed , looked up , and cryed unto him : and were relieved by his mercy , and lightned by his grace : their faces were not any whit ashamed , because they did put their trust in him .

6 This poor man ( even my self ) cryed ( by their example ) in my distress : and the Lord , plentiful in compassion , graciously heard him , and saved and delivered him immediately out of all his troubles and calamity .

7 The good Angel of the Lord , deputed by him for each mans protection , encampeth , and fortifieth round about them , that with an unfeigned heart fear and serve him : which Angel preserveth them in all their wayes , and delivereth them from all the machinations of the Devil , and his Angels .

8 O taste ye therefore , and see , make experience , aud you shall soon find , that the Lord is good and loving to those that faithfully call upon him , and you will also confess with me , and say , Blessed and happy is the man that layeth aside all confidence in himself , and that in all his necessities trusteth in him , and his protection .

9 O fear , reverence , and love the Lord , all ye , that by truly believing in him , become his Saints , and observe his Commandements : for , take this as an infallible truth , that there is no want to them they shall lack nothing that is needful for them , that with an upright heart fear and serve him .

10 The young Lyons , mighty and worldly minded men , although they think themselve 〈◊〉 do they lack true peace of Conscience , and suffer hunger , and want that which is truly good ; but they , which with a pure heart , and humble spirit , seek the Lord , and desire to please him , shall not want any good thing , when the Lord in his wisdom shall think it needful for them .

11 Come therefore , O ye Children , that desire to be informed , and with attentive minds hearken , and give good ear unto me , that am experienced in the mercies of the Lord , and I will teach and instruct you in the fear of the Lord , which is the beginning of wisdom .

12 What man is he , among the Sons of men , that desireth to live a good life , and loveth to spend many daye so in this life , that he may see and enjoy good and happy dayes hereafter .

13 Keep , first of all , thy tongue from speaking evil , let that member do no man wrong , and preserve thy lips from speaking guile , or that which is false , though to be to thine own prejudice : for the Lord abhoreth lying lips .

14 Depart from evil , avoid all things which thou knowest displeasing to God , and yet think not that sufficient , except thou also apply thy self to do that which is good and acceptable to him : Seek peace , between God , and thy self ; thy self , and thy Conscience ; thy self , and thy Neighbour ; and if thou shalt find that peace in any of these particulars shall fly from thee , pursue it with all thy might , that thou mayest recover it .

15 The provident eyes of the Lord , ( for thy comfort in taking this course ) are ever fixed upon the righteous , to preserve them from all evil , and to confirm them in all good : and his ears of compassion are alwayes open unto their cry , to deliver them from all distress .

16 The face of displeasure , and the angry countenance of the Lord , on the contrary , is set and bent against them that forsake good , and do evil , without remorse of Conscience , to cut off , and root out , not only such wicked persons themselves , but the very remembrance of them from the face of the Earth , that there shall remain no memorial of them .

17 The righteous in their affliction cry , and flee unto God for succour and the Lord in mercy heareth their prayer ; yea , and , in his good time , delivereth them out of all their troubles , either by aiding them with spiritual comfort , that they faint not under them , or by removing their afflictions from them , or them from their afflictions , by taking them into heavenly joyes .

18 The Lord ( who hath a continual care over his Elect ) is ever nigh unto them in comfort , that are of a broken and humble heart : and always saveth such ( and no other ) as are of a contrite and bruised spirit , that they fall not into desparation .

19 Many in number , and great in weight , are the afflictions and troubles of the righteous , for they that will live godly in Christ , must suffer persecution ; but the Lord , of his infinite goodness , forsaketh him not , but delivereth him in due time out of them all , that they shall not be able to do him harm .

20 He , even the Lord , keepeth and preserveth all his bones , which though the wicked go about to break , yet notwithstanding all their attempts , not so much as one of them is or shall be broken by them : and not only so , but the hairs of his head are numbred also .

21 Evil , on the other side , shall slay the wicked , and turn them to destruction , and they , whosoever they be , that hate the righteous , whom the Lord loveth , shall be desolate , and deprived of the comfort of Gods holy Spirit .

22 The Lord by his power and goodness redeemeth and saveth the soul of every one of his servants from all evil , and none of them that put their trust and confidence in him , and his mercy , shall be left desolate , or without consolation .

Glory be to the Father , and to the Son , &c.

Psalm 103.

BLess and magnifie the Lord , thy Creator , O my Soul , for all his mercies and favours extended to thee , and all that is within me , holy and pure , give praise unto , and bless his holy and great Name .

2 Bless the Lord , O my Soul , I say again , as well for thy Creation , as for all other his great and glorious works , and , at any hand take heed , thou be not ingrateful to him , and forget not , nor let slip out of thy remembrance , all , or any of his benefits , as well in forming thee after his own Image , as in his continual care , and preserving thee from many dangers .

3 Who , only by his power can , and of his meer mercy and goodness forgiveth all thine iniquities , pardoneth all thy sins , as well actual as original , how great soever , how many soever , as often , as with a pure heart , and humble spirit , thou repentest thee of them . Who , like a good Physician , healeth all thy diseases , and thy infirmities , by the regeneration , and renewing of his holy Spirit in thee .

4 Who only redeemeth and saveth thy life from destruction , and utter ruine , and who , instead of taking of just and severe revenge of thee for thy sins , crowneth and compasseth thee with loving kindness , many blessings , and comforteth thee with his tender mercies , which are above the rest of his works .

5 Who , in his providence , satisfieth , and filleth thy mouth , and desire , with all good things necessary for thy sustentation : so that thy youth , by his power , is renewed like the Eagles , by curing thy weakness and infirmity , and making thee lasty and strong .

6 The Lord relieveth them that suffer wrong , and executeth righteousness and judgement , without respect of persons , and standeth for all that are unjustly oppressed , against those that are too mighty for them .

7 He , in former times , at the publishing of the Law , made known his wayes , and taught his Commandements unto Moses , by whom he gave directions to succeeding ages , what they were to follow , and what to avoid : and his mighty acts were well known unto the Children of Israel , by their many and great Deliverances .

8 The Lord , our God , is merciful in forgiving offences , and gracious , in not imputing our sins unto us : he is slow to anger , expecting the conversion of sinners : and plenteous in mercy , exceeding in his love , and liberal in his benefits to those that fear him .

9 He will not alwayes chide , nor be ever displeased with his Children : neither will he remember our sins , and keep his anger against us for them for ever , but in his wrath he will ever be mindful of his mercy .

10 He hath not dealt with us , nor punished us rebellious wretches , after the quality of our sins , wherewith we have daily offended his patience , nor hath he rewarded nor retributed to us , according to the hainousness of our iniquities : for he knoweth , that if he should strictly enter into judgement with us , no flesh could be saved .

11 For like as the Heaven is high , as we see , and far above the Earth : so great is his mercy above his justice , toward them that fear him , and in remorse for their offences , truly turn unto him .

12 As far also in distance as the East part of the World is situate from the West , which by reason of their separation , can never come near to each other : so far at the least hath he removed , and put away our transgressions and sins from us , that they never shall come near unto us , to do us any harm .

13 Like as a tender and compassionate Father pityeth his disobedient Children , and upon submission receiveth them again to grace : so the Lord , who is the Father of mercies , pityeth and grieveth to see the afflictions of them , that in fear and trembling for their sins , return unto him .

14 For he , the Lord , which knoweth all things , knoweth also our frame , that we consist of flesh and blood , subject to corruption and frailty , and he withall remembreth , and considereth that we are but even dust , fashioned out of the Earth , and therefore must needs partake and savour of earthly substance .

15 As for wretched and frail Man therefore , his dayes are but as grass , which is green in the morning , and before night is cut down and withered : and as a fading flower of the field : which for a while only , in the Spring time , is beautiful , and afterward in cropt or decayeth : even so , and in no more assurance is he that in the greatest prosperity flourisheth . For after a while , in a short time , he is no more seen , nor his remembrance shall be no where found .

16 For as the wind and storms passeth over it , and every flower , and presently it is gone , and withered , and the place thereof , where it grew , shall not know it , not bear it any more : So Man , after he hath a while felt the troubles and storms of this World , shall soon dye , and be forgotten , and the place of his being will be no more known .

17 But yet the mercy , and loving kindness of the Lord , to the Sons of Men , is , and was from everlasting , and shall continue to everlasting , to the end of the World : and shall ever be upon them , especially , that with unfeigned hearts , serve , love , and fear him : and his righteousness in all his promises , shall be accomplished to his servants , and unto their Childrens Children , their posterity , through many generations .

18 To such especially , as forget not his Commandements , faithfully keep , and observe his Covenant ; and to those that remember , and be mindful of his Commandements , and frame themselves to do them .

19 The Lord , who commandeth the observance of his Laws , is most worthy of all honour , and not to be neglected ; for he hath ( before the Foundations of the World ) prepared his Throne , and Seat of Majesty in the Heavens , where he is attended on by the glorious Company of Angels , and his Kingdom is not straitned or limited to one peculiar Place or Country , but he ruleth and commandeth over all People and Nations .

20 Bless therefore the Lord , that is so mighty , ye that be his holy Angels , magnifie , and laud his holy Name ; ye , that excell in strength , and that gladly do and execute his Commandements , and that , by hearkning unto , and obeying the voice of his Word , willingly execute his will and pleasure .

21 Bless ye , and praise , I say , the Lord , your , and our God , all ye his Heavenly Hosts , ye blessed Angels : ye that are Ministers and Servants of his , that willingly and gladly execute and do his pleasure .

22 Bless , and praise together , with one accord , the Lord , our God , all his works , which he hath created , for the celebration of his glory , wheresover ye remain , in all places of his Dominion , even every where : And lastly , as I began with thee , O my Soul , to stir thee up to his praise , so I end with the same excitation , Bless , Praise , Laud , and Magnifie the Lord , thy God , O my Soul , to whom he hath ever been so gracious and merciful .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 111.

I Will praise the Lord , and give thanks unto his holy Name , with my whole heart , and that not only in my private Devotions , but in the publick Assembly and Meeting of the Upright in heart : and in the Congregation of the Faithful , the Church also .

2 The wondrous works of the Lord , our God , even from the beginning , thorow all ages , even to this time , are so great and glorious , that worthily he alone deserveth to be magnified for them ; they are sought out , and searched into , of all them that have pleasure , and delight in meditating and contemplating therein .

3 His work , in the Creation and Fabrique of the Universe , is honourable and glorious , of all his Creatures worthily to be admired : and his Righteousness and Equity , his Care and Providence , in the preservation and government of it , is likewise to be magnified , because it is permanent , and endureth for ever .

4 He hath made and perfected his wonderful works with such wisdom and power , that they ought to be remembred , and his Name to be celebrated for them : And as he is omnipotent , so the Lord is also gracious , and loving to his Servants , and full of compassion , plenteous in mercy to every repentant sinner .

5 He hath , of his providence and bounty , ever given meat , and all other necessaries , to them that fear and serve him : yea , and he , as he hath formerly , so will he ever , to the end of the World be mindfull of his Covenant of Grace , to his Servants .

6 He hath shewed and manifested to his people , his elect , the power , and efficacy of his great works , not only in the creation , but in the Redemption of mankind : that he may give unto them that are in Chirst , the heritage of the heathen , according to the promise made to our fore-fathers .

7 The works of his hands , all his actions are done in verity , and Iudgement , and all his Commandements are sure , just , holy , and worthy to be observed .

8 They stand fast , and are setled firm , for ever and ever , to the end of the world : and they are done , and commanded , upon good grounds , in truth and uprightness , as being enjoyned by the Author of Truth and Equity .

9 He in the fulness of time , sons Redemption and Salvation unto his Elect People , by Jesus Christ , he hath commanded his Covenant , of the New Testament for ever to be observed by them : and it concerneth them carefully to keep it , because he which commanded it , is a jealous God , and severe to transgressors and Holy reverend is his Name .

10 The filial fear of the same holy and reverend Lord , is the beginning and basis of all true wisdom ; which whosoever hath not attained to , is not really wise , howsoever he may be esteemed by the world : but a good and perfect understanding have they , and they are truly wise indeed , that do his Commandements , and keep his Precepts : his praise and remembrance endureth for-ever , and continueth throughout all generations .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 138.

I Will praise and blesse thee , O Lord , with my whole heart , with all my strength : yea , before the Gods , in the presence of thy holy Angels , will I sing praise , and laud unto thee .

2 I will worship in fear and reverence towards thy holy Temple , dedicated to thy honour and service , and I will praise thy holy and great Name , for two of thy blessings especially , namely , for thy loving kindness , in comforting distressed sinners , and for thy Truth , in performing thy promises : for thou thy self hast preferred and magnified thy Word of Truth , above all the Attributes of thy Name , else , whatsoever .

3 In the day and time of my affliction , when I cryed unto thee , by earnest prayer , thou didst not stop thine ears , but graciously answeredst me : yea and strengthned me with thy Grace , and strength in my Soul .

4 All the Kings and mighty men of the earth , be they never so high in condition , shall , and may worthily praise thee , without disparagement to themselves : when they , by the preaching of the Gospel , hear the words of thy mouth , which are nothing but Truth .

5 Yea , they shall sing and rejoyce , in excercising themselves in the wayes and Commandements of the Lord : for great and unutterable is the glory and Majesty of the Lord of Hosts .

6 Though the Lord our God be high , and his Majesty be above all things , yet in his abundant mercy , hath he respect unto the lowly in their own eyes ; and the more humble they are , the more he regardeth them : but as for the proud , and those which exalt themselves , he despiseth them , and knoweth them , as it were a farre off .

8 Though I walk and live in the midst of trouble and sorrow , and in the shadow of death : yet , whensoever I call upon thee faithfully , thou wilt ( I know ) revive and raise me up : thou shalt also stretch forth and reach unto me thy hand of power , against the wrath and malice of mine Enemies , and bridle their fury : and thy right hand of omnipotence shall save me from all their enterprizes .

8. The Lord of his goodness , will perfect and finish that which concerneth me , and my salvation : thy mercy and loving kindness , O Lord , never faileth , but endureth from generation to generation , even for ever ; Withdraw not therefore , that mercy of thine from me , O Lord , and forsake not thou the work of thine owne hands ; not made by any strange God , but by thee , the only and true God .

Glory be to the Father , &c.

Psalm 145.

I Will extoll and praise thee , my God , and Creator , O King or Majesty and Glory : and I will blesse and magnifie thy Name , O preserver of mankind , for ever and ever , even all the dayes of my life .

2 Every day , not a day shall passe over my head , but I will blesse thee , and be speaking of thy mercies : and I will praise and give thanks unto thee , and to thy Name , for ever and ever , as long as I live .

3 Great and glorious is the Lord , far exceeding all the false Gods of the heathen , and greatly is he to be praised for all his works : and his greatness hath neither end nor beginning , but is unsearchable , and past mans finding out .

4 One generation and age shall praise and leave the memory of thy goodnesse , and thy works of power , wisdom , and mercy to another succeeding generation , and shall declare to posterity , the remembrance of thy mighty acts .

5 I my self , as well as I am able ; will ; as I have good cause , speak of , and extoll , the glorious honour , and the exceeding greatness of thy Majesty : and tell unto the people the excellency of thy wondrous works .

6 And not only I , but all other Men , shall be forced to confess , and speak of the exceeding might , and the wonderfull effects of thy terrible acts , against thine enemies : and I , according to my poor ability , will declare unto posterity thy greatness and Majesty .

7 They , even all people , which are governed by thy power , and satisfied with thy goodness , shall abundantly utter , and continually with praise acknowledge , and keep the memory of thy great and super-abundant goodness and mercy : and shall , in all Assemblies and Congregations , sing , and rejoyce , because of thy Righteousness , wherewith thou rulest and disposest all things .

8 The Lord , our God , notwithstanding our grievous sins , is gracious , and loving , yea , and full of compassion by nature , evermore slow and unwilling to wreak his anger upon us , it being an act contrary to his disposition , and instead of punishing , he is of great mercy , and ready to pardon the repentant .

9 The Lord is also good and gracious , not to any particular persons or people only , but to all that turn unto him , and if we shall consider his tender mercies to the Sons of Men , they are over his justice , and all his other works .

10 All thy works and creatures shall therefore praise and magnifie thee , O Lord , in general : and , above the rest , thy Saints , and Servants , to whom , in particular thou extendest thy mercy , shall bless , and continually praise thee , for the same .

11 They especially shall not be silent , but speak of , and declare unto those that have not known thy Name , the Glory and Majesty of thy Kingdom , which is above all the Kingdoms of the Earth , and shall , wheresoever they come , talk of , and set forth thy mighty power , which no Potentate is able to resist .

12 To make known , and to make manifest thereby , to the Sons of Men , even all the generations to come , his mighty and wonderful acts , which he hath done in our time , and in the ages fore-going : and also the glorious Majesty , and Super-excellency of his Kingdom , and Power .

13 Thy Kingdom , O Lord , is not temporary , or of short continuance , but it is an everlasting Kingdom , was without beginning , and never shall have end : and this thy Dominion and Rule endureth firm and stable throughout all generations , to the end of the World .

14 The Lord in his mercy upholdeth , and lifteth up all those that fall by frailty and weakness : and raiseth up , by the grace of his holy Spirit , all those that be dejected , bowed , and cast down with the thought of their sinnes .

15 The eyes of all Creatures wait , and are fixed upon thee , as upon their careful Father , for sustenance and help : and they no sooner call unto thee , but thou , of thy providence , supplyest their wants , and givest them their meat , and all things necessary for them , not only in due proportion , but in due season , and time also .

16 Thou openest thy hand of bounty , and satisfiest the insatiable desire of men , which nothing but thy self can satisfie , and of every other living thing besides .

17 The Lord is only righteous , just , and unreprovable in all his wayes , and actions : and it is he only that is holy , and pure in all his works .

18 The Lord is nigh , and ready at hand , unto all them ; that in distress , call upon him , and seek unto him for help , Yea , to all , without respect of persons that call upon him in truth , faith , and uprightness of heart .

19 He is so gracious , that he will not only hear them , but grant their petitions , and fullfil and satisfie the desire and request of them that fear and serve him : he also will hear their cry , in time of affliction , and will save and deliver them out of all their trouble .

20 The Lord , by his omnipotent power , preserveth and keepeth all them that love him sincerely , and obey his Commandements , but as for all the wicked , and unrepentant obstinate sinners , those will he destroy from the face of the Earth .

21 My mouth shall , as long as I have any being , speak of , and declare the Praise and Majesty of the Lord , most mighty , and as I do , so let all Flesh , People , Nations , and Kindreds , from the rising of the Sun , to the going down thereof , bless , laud , and magnifie , together with me , his holy and great Name , even for ever and ever , from this time forth for evermore .

Glory be to the Father , and to the Son , &c.

Imprecation .

THis part of Devotion , ( or of Zeal , as I may call it ) although it seem harsh , and not well to stand with the Charity of a Christian , yet in some caeses it hath been , and may be lawfully used .

1. When the Church of God , in any part of the World , lyeth ( as it were ) at the Stake , and groaneth under the burden of Persecution , and the Enemies thereof are incorrigible , and not to be reconciled . In this case , not only a private man in his Devotions , but the Church also in generel may use these Imprecations , to the end that the Church may by these kind of Prayers , and Gods assistance , recover its former Peace and Quiet .

2. When a Christian shall perceive that his Enemies aim altogether ( against the Rules of Charity ) at the utter subversion both of his Body and Soul ; In this Case also a man may ( without breach of Charity ) use these Imprecations .

In either of which Cases , if the children of Gods or our own enemies shall joyn , assist , or persist maliciously in the steps of their Parents , they are in our estimation to be accounted of no better , nay , not so well as the very Heathen who have not known the Name of God at all .

And to this end , I have given you a taste only of some of the zealous wishes , and earnest desires or Imprecations of some holy men , Prophets and Apostles , which are set down in sacred Scripture , left ( no doubt ) for our imitation in the several cases before mentioned .

Imprecations against the Enemies of God and , his Church .

Num. 16 15. OF Moses in the rebellion of Korah , Dathan , and Abiram , Respect not thou their Offering .

2 Reg 19. 15. Of Ezechiah against Sonacherib , the blasphemous King of Assyria .

2 Chr. 14. 11. Of Asa against Zerah , the King of AEthiopia .

20. 6. Of Iehosaphat against the Moabites and Ammonites .

Of Nehemiah against Sanballat and Tobiah .

Neh. 4.4 . Turn their reproach upon their own head , and give them for a prey in the land of captivity .

And cover not their iniquity , and let not their sin be blotted out before thee .

Of David against Gods enemies in many places .

Psal. 5.10 . Destroy thou them , O God , let them fall by their own Counsels : cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions , for they have rebelled against thee .

10. 15. Break the arm of the wicked .

Break their teeth , O God . Psal. 58.6 68. 1.

Let God arise , and let his enemies be scattered , let them also that hate him , flee before him .

Lift up thy feet , 74. 4. that thou mayest utterly destroy every enemy which hath done evil in thy Sanctuary .

Powr out thine indignation upon the Heathen that have not known thee . 79. 6.

O my God , make them like a wheel , and as the stubble before the wind . 83. 13.

Persecute them with thy tempest .

Make their faces ashamed .

Let them be confounded and vexed evermore : let them be put to shame and perish .

Let them be as grass upon the house top , which withereth before it groweth up . 129. 6.

Let not the ungodly have his desire , O Lord , let not his mischievous imagination prosper , lest they be too proud . 140. 8.

Let the mischief of their own lips fall upon them .

Let hot burning coals fall upon them : let them be cast into the fire , and into the pit , that they never rise up again .

Of the Apostles against the High Priests . Act. 4. 24

Of Saint Paul .

1 Cor. 16. 22. If any man love not the Lord Iesus Christ , let him be Anathema Maranatha .

Gal. 1. 9. If any man preach any other Gospel , &c. let him be accursed .

5. 12. I would they were even cut off that trouble you .

Against the Enemies of our Souls .

Psal. 35.5 . LEt them be confounded , and put to shame , that seek after my Soul .

Let them be as chaff before the wind .

Let the Angel of the Lord chase them .

Let their way be dark and slippery .

Let the Angel of the Lord persecute them .

Let destruction come upon them .

Let them be confounded and ashamed .

40. 14. Let them be driven backward ,

Let them be desolate .

Let Death seize upon them .

Let them go down quickly to Hell . 55. 15.

Let them be covered with reproach and dishonour . 71. 13.

Set a wicked man over him . 109. 6.

Let Satan stand at his right hand .

Let his prayer become sin .

Let his dayes be few .

Let his Children be Fatherless , and his Wife a Widow .

Let his Children be Vagabonds and Beggars .

Let the Extortioner catch all he hath .

Let there be none to extend mercy to him , or his Children .

Let his posterity be cut off .

Let the iniquity of his Fathers be remembred .

Cast forth lightening , and scalter them : shoot out thine arrows , and destroy them . 144. 6.

And it is not to be conceived , that these Imprecations arise from a weak affection , as though the godly were glad , or rejoyced at the destruction of the wicked , nor to persecute them out of the malice of humane nature .

1. But , for as much as the love of God ought to be preferred before the love of our Neighbours , and that then our Neighbour is truly loved , when that love respecteth the glory of God ; we worthily prefer his glory before the love of his Enemies , who by their wickedness would endeavour to obscure it .

2. They used these Imprecations against those Enemies , when they were out of hope ( as is before said ) of their amendment .

3. And Lastly , It was done , not so much to destroy the persons , as to frustrate their Counsels and Imaginations .

The Ten Commandements Paraphrased .

Deu. 4. 13. 10. 3. THe Law of the Two Tables was written by the Finger of God , and delivered and promulgated by the Ministry of Moses , Ex. 19.24 . and Angels , Act 7 53. Gal. 3.19 . Heb. 2.2 . and contained summarily what God commanded the people to observe , and what to avoid .

It is divided into two Parts .

Our duty toward God . Our duty towards our Neighbour .

The four first Commandements enjoyn the first duty .

The six last , the last .

And thus follow .

God spake all these words , saying , I am the Lord thy God , which brought thee out of the Land of AEgypt , out of the house of bondage .

In the Preface , by mentioning of Gods Name , God spake , &c. Jehovah . His Majesty . Spake . By his Word .

The hearers were prepared to attention .

The Brevity and Order of the Commandements make them easie to be learned .

This Preface belongeth to all the Decaloque , and containeth a description of the Person who gave the Law .

Who being God , the Creator and Disposer of all things , is to be obeyed : Neither are we to make any scruple or doubt , but that all things which he commandeth us in his Law , are just and holy .

I am the Lord . Who only is Omnipotent , and was from all Eternity , from whom all things that are had their beginning , and who hath absolute and sole power to command and prescribe Laws unto us .

Thy God . Ps. 144.15 . Happy is the people who have the Lord for their God .

By these words ( thy God ) every one of us may receive particular comfort , that as he is able , so he is willing and ready ( by making this Covenant to be ours ) in his particular providence and care , to do good to every one of us in our need , if we keep his Commandements .

God . A God , to relieve and aid us , not a severe Iudge , to condemn us ,

Let us therefore ,

With all reverence , serve him as a Lord .

With earnest desire , repair to him in our need , as to a merciful God .

With hearty zeal , love him for his goodness .

With trembling , fear to offend him for his justice .

And let us be holy , as he is holy . Lev. 20.7 .

In this delivery of the Iews from their servitude , VVhich brought thee , &c. is his infinite Power described : whereby he is declared to be as well able to save his Servants , as to confound his Enemies .

And this deliverance is foretold and parallel'd by the Prophet , Esa. 52 as a Type of our deliverance from the servitude of sin .

The First Commandement . Thou shalt have no other Gods before me .

HAving ( as it were ) setled in our hearts his Authority and Power , Thou shalt have no other Gods . to prescribe and make Laws unto us , his just precept is , that We have no other Gods before him .

1. Neither by abating any reverence due to him .

But to worship him with all our heart .

By acknowledging him to be the only true God .

By honouring , serving , and praising him above all things .

By trusting and relying wholly upon him .

By expecting all good from him .

By humbling our selves before him , and patiently bearing whatsoever he shall please to lay upon us , and subjecting our wills wholly to his .

2 Not by attributing any honour to other Gods or Idols , or putting any confidence in Saints or Angels , Earthly Pleasures , Riches , Honour , or the like , lest we offend thereby .

Gen. 30.1 As Rachel did , by asking Children of Iacob .

2 Kin. 5.6 . As the King of Syria , by desiring Ioram to heal Naamans leprosie .

2 Chr. 16. 12. As Asa , by too much trusting to his Physicians .

Lu. 12.16 . As the Fool in the Gospel , trusting to his riches .

Before me . Neither secretly in thy heart .

Nor in the view of God and the World openly .

Not , but that God is every where , and seeth into the secret corners of our hearts , and is Omniscient ; but to set a note or brand of impudence upon us , for our indignity to him , if we shall make open profession of our Idolatry to any false God or Idol , in worshipping it ; or of our excessive love , or doting upon any Creature , by putting confidence in it , & neglecting our dependance on God , who is only able , by his Omnipotency , to releive us .

This Commandement enjoyneth the inward worship of God .

The Second Commandement . Thou shalt not make to thy self any graven Image .

AS in the first Commandement , God requireth , that we worship him only inwardly : so in this , he forbiddeth all undue and indirect outward worshipping of him ; and enjoyneth us , not to make any resemblance , to worship him by ; because he is a Spirit , and is only to be worshipped in Spirit and Truth .

It consisteth of two parts .

1. A prohibition of making any Image representing the Divine Godhead .

2. Of exhibiting any worship to any Image .

And that , 1. Because he is incomprehensible , cannot be represented in any form visible . 2. Because he is able to punish the contemners of his Name .

And to bless his true Worshippers .

Thou shalt not , &c. 1. Therefore we are not to grave , or make any Image , or resemblance of him .

Deu. 4.15 For when he gave the Law , ( saith Moses ) he appeared in no manner of similitude .

Esa. 40.18 To whom then will ye liken God ? or to what likeness will ye compare him ?

2. Neither are we to make the likeness of any thing , to worship it .

For as we ought not to make any resemblance of him : so neither when we make the similitude of any thing else , ( the true use of making Pictures , and the like , being lawful ) not to worship , or attribute any honour to it .

Not that all Images are hereby forbidden .

1. For some in the Old Testament were Typical .

The Brazen Serpent being the Type of Christ .

The two Cherubins on the Ark represented the Majesty of God attended by his Angels , &c.

2. Some are for Ornament ; many in the fabrique of the Temple , and in the holy Vessels of it .

3. Some Historical , of stories either out of the Scriptures , or of other Writers .

4. Some for instruction in the nature of Beasts , Cities , and Countries .

Saint Paul saith , Rom. 1.23 that the Gentiles changed the glory of the incorruptible God , into an Image like to corruptible man , and to birds , and four-footed beasts , and creeping things ; wherefore God gave them up to uncleanness , &c.

1. Either by bowing the body , Thou shalt not bow down , &c. uncovering the head , or bending the knee to them .

2. Or by setting the same in any eminent place to worship them , bestowing extraordinary cost on them , making Pilgrimages to them , or dedicating Altars , Lamps , or the like to them .

For I the Lord , &c. By this Commination , he sheweth his power to punish Offenders , and that he is able and all-sufficient to supply our wants likewise .

Am a jealous God . Like the jealous Husband , who will have no partner in his love .

And suffereth no Corrival , Competitor , or Sharer in his Service .

My Son give me thy heart , thy whole heart .

And visit the sins &c. Punishing them that run after false Gods , in many descents , even as long as they shall continue in their idolatrous courses .

Though the Son shall not bear the iniquity of the Father , yet this is so odious to him , that he will take vengeance of the Idolatrous Generation .

As of the Iews in general . Solomon , and others . 1. To shew how odious Idolatry is to him . 2. To force men ( who naturally have a love and care to their posterity ) by this Commination , to abstain from it , left their issue be plagued .

Confounded be all they that worship carved Images , Psal. 97.7 . and that delight in vain Gods .

The mercy of the LORD , And shewing mercy , &c. is over all his Works . 145. 9. is over his Iustice . Jam. 2.13 .

For whereas he punisheth Idolaters in his Iustice , but to three or four generations : He is merciful to thousands of those that worship him aright , throughout all generations .

His reward is alwayes greater than his punishment . Luc. 1.50 .

Of his own nature more bent to shew mercy , than to execute severity .

It is his proper work , Ps , 28.21 . and suitable to his nature , to have mercy : but he is hardly drawn to punish , as being a work altogether unsuitable to his disposition .

To them that love me . With their whole heart , without hypocrisie , and do not impart that worship to others , which is due to him .

And keep my Commandements . In obedience , walking in his wayes .

All his Commandements , but chiefly this concerning his worship .

The Third Commandement . Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain , for the Lord will not hold him guiltless , that taketh his Name in vain .

The scope of which is , to shew what reverence is due to God in our Conversation , especially in the use or abuse of an Oath .

Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord in vain . THe Name of the Lord , which in it self is Holy , True , and Iust.

And therefore we ought not to prophane it , or take it in our mouths lightly , or upon every small occasion .

Herein we offend ,

When we blaspheme God , either openly , or in our hearts .

When we use his holy Word to any prophane , scurrilous , or impure end .

When we commit Perjury .

When we murmure against him .

When we leave his Providence , and consult with Witches , or the like .

When we swear upon trivial and light causes .

When we curse , or use unlawful Imprecations .

When we perform not that which we faithfully promise .

When we ( in any action of our own ) detract from Gods glory , and attribute and arrogate too much to our selves .

An Oath is to be ministred when the glory of God is questioned , for some weighty matter urgeth it , upon the Magistrates command . And to be taken by those who are of years of discretion , and in their right senses .

For the Lord will not , &c. The Lord , and Iudge of Heaven and Earth , who seeth , and observeth all our actions , is so far from conniving at this sin , that without repentance , he will condemn every one that offendeth therein .

1 Sam. 14. 24. Saul , for unadvised cursing , and adjuration , lost a Victory against the Philistines .

31. 4. For consulting with a Witch , was ( with his Sons ) brought to untimely end .

2 Kings 19. 10. Sennacherib , for blaspheming God , was slain by his own Sons .

Acts 5. 5. Ananias , for lying to the Holy Ghost , dyed suddenly .

The Fourth Commandement . Remember that thou keep holy the Sabbath day , &c.

IN this Commandement are two things contained .

1. A Precept or Declaration of the will of God .

To set apart some day . 1. To the publick worship of God . 2. In ceasing from our labours .

2. A Reason of the Commandement .

1. Because God after the Creation rested on the seventh day . 2. Because he also blessed and sanctified it .

Let not worldly cares put it out of thy mind , Remember but observe it with all Care and Religion .

And not without great cause was this Precept so strictly urged .

1. Because by the neglect of it , ariseth the neglect of all spiritual duty .

2. Because in it was contained a Type or Shadow of the great and everlasting Sabbath , which is our Sanctification .

3. Because we have thereby some time to shew mercy to our Servants and Beasts , wearied with labour .

In frequenting the Church , That thou keep holy &c. and there to exercise thy self .

In Prayer .

Hearing the Word .

Receiving the Sacrament .

In pious and religious Works , as Visiting the Sick . Relieving the Poor . Meditating on Gods Works . Praising him for them . In refraining from Sin . In resting from servile Labour .

And although that part of the Iews Sabbath be abrogated which respected the Seventh day Sacrifices , and other exteriour acts of Gods worship , commanded and enjoyned to the Iews : yet the Church hath appointed instead thereof the Lords day , or Sunday , ( called the first day of the week ) wherein all Christians are bound to retain and observe all the duties of the first Sabbath , Rev. 1.10 . Acts 20.7 1 Cor. 16. 1. avoiding the Iewish strict and superstitious Ceremonies ,

Six dayes , &c. In following the Vocation appointed thee by God , wherein thou art to omit nothing necessary for the sustentation of thy Family .

And not to spend those six dayes wholly in idleness , pleasure , or excess .

Nor in the publique duties of the Sabbath , and thereby nelecting the Care over thy Family .

In that day , But the seventh day , neither thou , nor any of thy Family , or Cattel , shall do any servile labour , ( except in case of necessity , and preservation of Gods Creatures from damage or loss ) but ye shall spend it in those religious duties formerly set down .

In case of necessity ( The Sabbath being made for Man , and not Man for the Sabbath ) we are to conceive , that it was ordained not to destroy , but to preserve him ; and therefore all works are not forbidden that day .

1. As dressing of meat . By the example of the Priests , Num. 28. 1. who on the Sabbath killed the Beasts for Sacrifice , and dressed the rest . Mat. 12. 1 And of Christs Disciples , plucking ears of Corn. And Tertullian saith , De Coron. militis . c. 3 That the Antient and Primitive Church never fasted on the Sabbath day .

2. Ministring Physick to the Sick . Luc. 6.7 . By the example of our Saviour , John 5. healing on that day .

3. Saving Corn , Hay-Houses , and the like , Mat. 12. 11. from perishing . By our Saviours question to the Pharisees .

2. The Reason why God commanded the observation of the first Sabbath was , 1. Because , after God by his Word had created the Universe of nothing , Gen. 2.2 . he rested himself from all the work that he had made . 2. Because this day was by him blessed and sanctified .

And the reason why the Seventh day was changed by the Apostles , and continued by Christian Emperours , into the first day of the week , upon which the Christians Sabbath is observed , was in remembrance of our Saviours Resurrection , Ioh. 22.19 ( which happned on this day ) as may be gathered by Christs selecting that day to appear twice to his Apostles after his Resurrection .

The Second Table . The Fifth Commandement . Honour thy Father and thy Mother , that thy dayes may be long on the Land , which the Lord thy God giveth thee .

AS the first Table teacheth the honour and love of God , so doth the second , the duty we owe to our Neighbour . And the first Commandement of this Table enjoyneth us to honour and reverence our Parents , as being the thing which God esteemeth next in degree to his Honour .

And it containeth , First , A Precept . Secondly , A Promise .

1. The Precept is General and Particular -

1. The General comprehendeth our Duty to all our Elders and Superiours , whom God hath set over us , for our government and preservation ; which duty is of necessity to be performed , in respect of the upholding of Politique Government ,

2. The Particular Precept containeth our Duty to our natural Parents , Father and Mother , of what degree , estate , or condition soever they be .

Whether Poor , or Rich ; Good , or Bad , this Commandement layeth hold on us .

Honour thy Father and Mother . That which we are enjoyned to do by these words , is to Reverence them : as from whom we received our being . Love them : for their care , sorrow , and pains , in our education , Obey them : in all lawful things , at being appointed by God to command over us . Be thankful to them : in requiting their charge and love ; in ministring to their necessities . Be patient with them : in their corrections , and bearing with all their infirmities .

That which we are forbidden to do against them , is , Not to speak evil of them , or to curse them . Ex. 21.17 . Not to see them want , Lev. 20 9. Not to be ashamed of them , Mat. 15. Mat. 7.11 . for poverty , or other cause whatsoever .

2. The Promise is made to all such as shall keep this Precept , That thy dayes may &c. which is Long dayes , of life here , and happy too , else they would be no better than a curse .

Long dayes hereafter , for ever in bliss , which is the highest blessing that can befall to any .

It was Saint Pauls observation , Eph. 6.2 . that this was the first Commandement that had a Promise annexed to it .

This Promise God made , 1. To allure us to the Duty of reverencing and obeying our Parents and Superiours . 2. To shew how highly he esteemeth of it . 3. It suits with the Commandements , if we honour our Parents , who gave us life , we shall be rewarded with long life .

The Sixth Commandement . Thou shalt not Kill .

THis Commandement followeth properly , and in order in the next place : For mans life being the most precious thing in this World , and upon which all other things depend , God seemeth to take care by this Commandement for peace and quietness , whereby mans life may be preserved .

The life of man ought to be preserved for three respects .

1. Because God is the Iudge of man only ,

2. Nature desireth nothing more than the preservation of life .

3. Murther destroyeth all society .

Thou shalt not Kill . Neither thy self , nor others .

Neither shalt thou have any desire to do any such act .

Under this Commandement are divers other particulars forbidden : For as God forbiddeth the act , so doth he command that all occasions or means to execute that act be forborn and taken away .

If God commands us not to kill , then he prohibits the affections to Slaughter . Anger . Unjust War . Quarrelling . Chiding . Hatred .

And all other things of this nature , Mat. 5 . 2● . which may be as provocations to slaughter .

And on the contrary he enjoyneth us ,

To love our Neighbours as our selves .

To live peaceably and quietly with them .

To do good for evil .

And all this because ,

Man is the Image of God .

Flesh of our Flesh.

The thing that Christ paid so dear for .

The Seventh Commandement . Thou shalt not commit Adultery .

Thou shalt not commit Adultery . THe chief aim and scope of this Commandement is to preserve the marriage bed inviolate . And with great reason it is placed next to the prohibiting of homicide , because that next and dearest to a man , after his own life , is the preservation and honour of his Wife ; Gen. 2.24 . for they two are but one flesh .

And by this Commandement is also implicitely , and secretly forbidden , Ro. 1.26 . Whoredom . Mar. 5.28 . Incest . Sodomy . Sins against Nature . Unlawful Desires and Affections . Uncleanness . Evil Talk . Obscene Songs . And Impudent Behaviour . Uncivil Sight . Lascivious Pictures . Intemperance of Diet. Delicacy and Excess in Apparrel . And the like .

Being provocations to the Sin here forbidden .

And as we are prohibited these things , so are we commanded hereby , To live Chastly . Temperately . Modestly . And purely in Heart .

For by these Vertues ( as our Saviour telleth us ) we shall come to the Beatifical Vision of God , Mat. 5. 8. and enjoy that Blessedness which he hath promised to those that in pureness of heart love and serve him .

The Eighth Commandement . Thou shalt not Steal .

THat is , thou shalt not take from another any thing which is not thine own . Thou shalt not Steal . And against this Commandement we may offend divers wayes .

By committing Sacrilege , taking any thing from the Church .

By with-holding that which is due to King or Prince .

By robbing on the high way , or out of houses .

By deceiving any man .

In bargaining . In false weights and measures . In being bankrupt without cause .

By oppressing the Poor , or keeping his pledge .

By encroaching upon the possessions of any other , either by violence openly , or by fraud , in removing Land-marks , &c.

By keeping that which is found from the true Owner .

By denying or concealing a trust .

By detaining the Labourers hire .

By living idlely , and eating out of another mans labour .

By neglecting a Masters service , and mis-spending his goods .

The Ninth Commandement . Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy Neighbour .

THou shalt not give false evidence before a Iudge , Thou shalt not bear false witness . against any man . Whosoever doth so , is not only guilty of the breach of this Commandement , but of the Third also , in committing Perjury .

Neither is false Testimony with an Oath forbidden only , but also without an Oath .

1. Thou shalt not accuse thy Brother unjustly .

Slander him . Revile him . Backbite him . Abuse him by uncivil jests .

2. Thou shalt not lye or equivocate .

Either for sport . Or to avoid danger or loss .

For though some seem to approve ,

Gen. 27. 19. Of Iacob , in lying to his Father , that he was Esau.

Ex. 1. 19. The Midwives , to save the Children .

Josh 2.4.5 Rahab the Harlot , to save the Spies .

1 Sam. 19. 14. Michol , to save David her Husband .

Jud. 11. 5. Iudith , to deceive Holofernes .

Yet it is safer ( with Saint Augustine ) to hold , S. August . that all lyes , being directly opposite to truth , must needs be sin .

The Tenth Commandement . Thou shalt not covet thy Neighbours House .

Thou shalt not , &c. THis Commandement is directly against Coveteousness , or evil Concupiscence , the issue of Original Sin , which was derived to all Mankind , after the fall of Adam .

Not covet . No man ought to covet or desire ( no , not so much as in his heart ) any thing , which belongeth to another man , and whereby he may receive any damage or detriment .

Neither his House , which is his inheritance , and his defence against the heat of the Sun , and the sharpness of the cold .

Nor his Wife , which is bone of his bone , and flesh of his flesh ; His Partner as well in sorrow as pleasure .

Nor his Servants , without whose help and labour he cannot dispatch his affairs .

Nor his Cattel , which do his work .

In conclusion , nothing , which may any way prejudice him .

Now , Jam. 2.10 . seeing that He which is guilty in breaking one part of the Law , offendeth in all : And that to the keeping of it , the whole inward and outward man is required : And that the Flesh ( while we are in this world ) is wholly opposite to the Spirit : It is impossible for us to fullfil the same by our own endeavours . For it is with us , as it was with Saint Paul , In our flesh dwelleth no good thing ; Rom. 7.18 . and the good that we would , we do not , but the evil which we would not , that we do . And seeing also , Ro. 3.20 . That by the deeds of the Law no man can be justified ; Not that the Law is in fault , ( being good of it self ) but our own Flesh ; 8. 7 , 8. The carnal mind being enmity with God : And they which are in the flesh , not being able to please him . For the comfort therefore of all , when as neither the works of the Law could justifie us , nor we were able to fullfil the same , God , of his infinite mercy , sent his Son Christ Iesus into the World , Gal. 3. 13. 14. That he suffering death for us , might redeem us from the curse of the Law , that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through Faith .

For in him all the Promises , Ceremonies , and the Law it self , were fulfilled and ended .

1. The Promises .

As , The Seed of the Woman shall break the Serpents head .

22. 18. In thee shall all the Nations of the Earth be blessed .

2. The Ceremonies .

Ps. 110.4 . The Priesthood , by his Eternal Priesthood .

The Sacrifices , Heb. 7 27. by his own Oblation .

Circumcision , Luc. 2.21 . 3. 21. by his Circumcisiou and Baptism .

Passover , by the Eucharist . Mar. 14. 22.

2. The Law .

By his Satisfaction , and absolute fulfilling of it , in whom was no sin nor spot , Cant. but an absolute and perfect Righteousness ; which Righteousness he hath of his free will and mercy imputed to us , and made ours , if with a lively Faith we apprehend him , and believe on him .

And in this respect , it may be said , that he observeth and fulfilleth the Law of God , who ( not trusting to himself , or his own works ) commendeth himself wholly to the Grace of God , Ro. 8. 3. 4. and seeketh all his Righteousness by Faith in Christ Iesus . 2 Cor. 5.2 .

So that we are to rely on those words which Saint Paul spake in his Sermon at Antioch , Be it known unto you therefore , Act. 13 38 Men and Brethren , that through this man ( Christ Iesus ) is preached unto you , the forgiveness of sins : And by him , all that believe , are justified from all things , from which you could not be justified by the Law of Moses .

But yet , we must take this along with us . That this Faith , whereby we believe that Christ satisfied the Law , and is become our Righteousness and Perfection , is meerly by Gods grace and favour infused into our hearts by the Holy Spirit : which stirreth up in us a love and desire to keep the Law of God : which though the same desire never attaineth to perfection , while we live in these Earthly Tabernacles , for the frailty and indisposition of the Flesh , yet God in his mercy accepteth the same for Christs sake .

For the better conceiving of the drift and scope of these Commandements , we are to take notice of two things .

1. Whereas , In every Commandement , the grossest sin , tending to the breach of that Commandement , is only forbidden by name ; yet we are to conceive , that all sins of that nature , though lesser in degree , and not named , together with the provocations thereunto , are likewise inclusively contained in that prohibition .

2. And where any Vertue is commanded to be observed , there all the Vices and Sins contrary to that Vertue are forbidden . And where any Vice is prohibited , there all opposite Vertues to it are enjoyned .

Meditations of Death .

THat all men must dye , being long since Enacted by Statute in the Parliament of Heaven , unrepealed : and the knowledge of the day of death being by God kept from us , Aug. in Ps. 34. Conc. 1. lest we should promise to our selves any thing for future time : I shall not need to spend many words , to prove either the absolute necessity of the one , or the uncertainty of the other . Onely give me leave to conclude this work with a few Meditations and Prayers , which may serve as well for those , who feel the hand of God by sickness : as for those which are in perfect health , to meditate and think upon , that they be not taken unprovided . And it is exercise of Meditation of Death , and resolution to dye , ought not to seem strange or hard to Christians . For the Philosopher , Plato . in his time , accounted all dayes spent , without serious consideration of our end , to be but fondly consumed ; and affirmed , That the whole life of a Wise man , was nothing but a Meditation of Death . And therefore it hath been observed , Gen. 23.3 . 19. that Abraham , when he was in the Land of Canaan , purchased no more Land , than would serve to bury his Dead . To teach us , that we should not fix , or fasten our minds upon the transitory things of this World , but have our affections bent upon another , and meditate upon the day of our Death ; which bringeth two benefits with it . First , It delivereth us out of many cares and troubles . And Secondly , It leadeth us to joyes unspeakable . The First of these benefits the Heathen man could see , Artabanus to Xerxes , Herod. 17. by the light of Nature , when he said , That , No man lived in so flourishing estate , who , if not often , yet once in his life , did not desire rather to dye , than to live . For the unavoidable calamity , and grievous diseases , incident to this life , do so often disquiet and vex a man , that , notwithstanding our life is naturally short , yet , sometime it seemeth over-long unto him . And therefore , ( saith he ) Death is the most acceptable and wished-for sanctuary , and place of refuge , for a life full of misery and grief . And for the Second , take ( amongst many ) that of Saint Cyprian , Cypr. We pass by Death to immortality , neither can we come or attain to eternal life , but by leaving this life . Nor is our corporal death to be accounted an end or period of life , but a passage to a better ; for by this temporal journey we pass to Eternity . For this separation of the Soul and Body , ( commonly called Death ) if we consider the true scope and aim of God in it , is not inflicted by him , as a severe Judge , to punish the Elect : but as a most merciful Father , who only calleth his Children , from a Dungeon of Misery , to a Place of all Felicity and Happiness . And this is that which hath alwayes made the Godly to leave this life with such willingness and joy , and to endure with so great courage and constancy , all their greatest agonies .

Meditations for the Sick . Esa. 38. 1. Set thy House in order , for thou shalt Dye .

Job . 19 25 I Know that my Redeemer liveth , and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the Earth .

And that I shall be again cloathed with this skin , and in my flesh I shall see God , whom I my self shall see , and mine eyes shall behold .

This hope is laid up in my breast .

Ps. 39.5 . Lord , let me know mine end , and the number of my dayes ; that I may be certified how long I have to live .

Behold , Thou hast made my dayes as it were a span long , and mine age is as nothing in respect of thee , and verily every man living is altogether vanity .

For man walketh in a vain shadow , and disquieteth himself in vain , he heapeth up riches , and cannot tell who shall gather them .

And now Lord , what is my hope ? truly my hope is even in thee .

Deliver me from all mine offences , and make me not a rebuke to the foolish .

Take away thy stroke from me , for I am consumed by the means of thy heavy hand .

When thou with rebukes dost chasten man for sin , thou makest his beauty to consume away , like a moth fretting a garment : every man therefore is but vanity .

Hear my Prayer , O Lord , and with thine ears consider my calling : hold not thy peace at my tears .

For I am a stranger with thee : and a sojourner , as all my Fathers were .

O spare me a little , that I may recover my strength , before I go hence , and be no more seen .

Answer me , Job . 13 : 2. O Lord , How many are mine iniquities and sins ? Make me to know my transgressions , and my sinnes .

Wherefore hidest thou thy face from me , and holdest me for thine Enemy .

Wilt thou break a leaf driven too and fro ? and wilt thou pursue the dry stubble ?

Psal. 71.1 O cast me not away in my weakness , forsake me not when my strength faileth me .

Though I be afflicted , yet let me not be distressed : Though in want of some of thy comforts , yet not of all : Though chastned , yet not forsaken .

94. 12. Blessed is the man whom thou chastnest , O Lord , and teachest him in thy Law ; that thou mayest give him rest in the dayes of evil .

119. 67. Before I was troubled , I went astray , but now I shall learn thy Word .

25 : 7. O Lord , Remember not the sins and offences of my youth : Nor judge me according to my works : For I have done nothing worthy of thy sight , but of eternal death .

51. 1 , 2. Wherefore , I pray thee , Blot out all my offences , and wash me throughly from my wickedness , and cleanse me from my sin .

Job . 7. 10. I have sinned , what shall I do unto thee , O thou preserver of men ? Why hast thou set me as a mark against thee , so that I am a burden unto my self .

And why dost thou not pardon my transgressions , and take away mine iniquity ? For now I shall sleep in the dust , and thou shalt seek me in the morning , but I shall not be .

Are not my dayes few ? Cease then , and let me alone , that I may take comfort a little . 10. 20.

Before I go whence I shall not return , even to the land of darkness , and shadow of death .

A land of darkness , as darkness it self , and of the shadow of death , without any order , and where the light is as darkness .

What man is he that liveth , and shall not see death , shall he deliver his Soul from the hand of the grave ? Ps. 89.27 .

The fear of death overwhelmeth me , and my heart is disquieted within me ; 55. 4. For that I have daily sinned , and not repented , considering , that , from the Infernal pit there is no redemption .

Be thou merciful to me , O Lord , and save me for thy Names sake , and in thy strength deliver and comfort me .

Ps. 119 75 I know , O Lord , that thy judgements are just , and that thou of very faithfulness hast caused me to be troubled .

2 Cor. 4.17 . Oh let this light affliction , ( which will quickly be gone ) cause unto me afterward a more excellent and eternal weight of glory .

Ps. 94.19 . In the midst of the sorrows that are in my heart , let thy comforts , O Lord , refresh my soul.

Job . 10. 8. Thy hands have made me , and fashioned me round about , yet thou dost destroy me .

Remember , I beseech thee , that thou hast made me as the clay , and wilt thou bring me into the dust again ?

Hast thou not powred me out like milk , and curdled me like a cheese .

Thou hast cloathed me with skin and flesh , and fenced me with bones and sinews .

Thou hast granted me life and favour , and thy visitation hath preserved my spirit .

14. 16. O Lord , thou numberest my steps , and dost set a watch over my sin .

My breath is corrupt , my dayes are extinct , the grave is ready for me . 17. 1.

I have said to Corruption , Thou art my Father , and to the Worm , Thou art my Mother and Sister .

Is there not an appointed time to man upon Earth , and are not his dayes as the dayes of an hireling . 7. 1.

My dayes are swifter than a Post , they flee away , and see no good . 9. 25.

I know thou wilt bring me to death , and to the house appointed for all the living . 30. 33.

Woe is me therefore , O Lord , that I have sinned . What shall I do ? Whither shall I flee ? but to thee , O Lord , my God . Be merciful to me in the last day . My Soul is very much disquieted within me , But Lord , I require thy aid and comfort .

Be mindful , O Lord , of thy Word , wherein thou hast caused me to put my trust , and let thy mercy come unto me , according to thy Promise . Ps. 119.49 For thou art my Maker , and I am the work of thy hands .

Deliver me , O Lord , from eternal death , in that day , wherein Heaven and Earth shall be dissolved , when thou comest to judge the Earth .

I am affrighted , when I consider that day , the day of thy wrath , the day of misery , that great and exceeding bitter day .

O Lord , in that day where shall I hide my self from the face of thine anger ?

O Lord , when thou comest to Iudgement , condemn me not , I beseech thee , but deliver from the Gates of Hell my poor Soul , which I commend unto thee . Acknowledge then , O Lord , thy Creature , not made by any strange Gods , but by thee , the true and living God . Make my Soul joyful with thy presence , and remember not my sins , but according to thy great mercy think upon me in that day , for the merits of my blessed Saviour Iesus Christ , Amen .

A Prayer for the Sick .

ALmighty and most merciful Lord God , who , by the infirmities of this life , dost put us in mind of our mortality , and by these outward afflictions , dost call us to inward Repentance : I cry unto thee with my whole heart , Psal. 6,1● . Rebuke me not in thine anger , neither chasten me in thy displeasure . Have mercy upon me , O Lord , for I am weak : O Lord , heal me , for my bones are vexed . Thou art He , O Lord , Job . 5 18. 1 Sam. 2.6 . That woundest , and healest again : that killest , and revivest : that leadest to the Gates of Hell , and bringest back again . If this my sickness , O Lord , be not unto death , help me on this my bed of infirmity , and strengthen me . If thou thinkest expedient , rather that I should dye than live , do with me according to thy good pleasure , and receive my spirit to thy peace , which I commend into thy hands , who livest and reignest God of all mercy , world without end .

AMEN .

Or thus .

O Merciful Lord God , who , of thy great mercy , dost forgive the offences of those who truly repent , mercifully look upon me thy poor servant , and hearken unto me , who humbly crave of thee remission of my sins . Renew , O Lord , in me whatsoever is corrupt and decayed , by the Devils malice , or mine own frailty . Pity my sighs , pity my tears , pity my groans ; vouchsafe to be reconciled to me , that have confidence in nothing , but thy meer mercy . O Lord , it grieveth me , that I have offended thy Majesty , and it grieveth me much , that I can grieve no more than I do . And I humbly pray thee , by the Death , Passion , and Intercession of thy Son Christ Iesus , to pardon my offences : promising , that if I recover my former health , thy grace assisting me , to abstain from displeasing thy Majesty hereafter . I willingly , O Lord , and freely from my heart , for thy sake , forgive all offenders and offences against me , and I heartily desire all those , whom I have any way offended , to forgive me . O Lord , though my natural man trembleth at the thought of death , yet I profess that I am willing to dye , if it be thy good pleasure . I. have received life , and all the blessings of this life from thee ; What shall I render back to thee for them ? I will willingly receive this Cup of Death , Psal. 31.6 and praise thy Name . I commend into thy hands my Spirit : And whether thou disposest of me to live or dye , I resign it to thy good will and disposition ; and humbly pray thee , that if thou seest it good for me , to prolong my dayes on Earth , that thou wouldest renew my conversation , by the direction of thy Holy Spirit , that I may pass those dayes in thy fear : If thou be otherwise pleased to dispose of me , take me , I beseech thee , into the armes of thy mercy : for Iesus Christs sake , my only Saviour and Redeemer .

Or Thus.

O God of all Consolation , who hast promised to hear all those that faithfully call upon thee , and not to reject any , that with a contrite heart , and penitent soul , shall humble himself before thee . I humbly intreat thee , in the Name and Mediation of thy Son Iesus Christ , that thou wouldest be pleased to be merciful to me , thy poor servant , at this time afflicted with sickness . O Lord , pardon , forget , and blot out of thy remembrance , whatsoever I have committed against thee , in the whole course of my life . Seal and confirm unto me ( by thy Spirit ) a pardon unto me for all my offences , that I may thereby receive such comfort in my soul , that I may with all joy and willingness depart out of this life unto thee . Let me be certified , Rom. 8.1 . That there is no condemnation to those which are united and ingrafted into Iesus Christ , by Faith : That I may be confident , Rom. 32. That neither my Sins , Death , the Devil , nor ought else , can draw me away , or separate me from thee . And that I may be assured , that thy Throne will not be to me a Barr of Severity , but a Haven of Safety , and a sure Sanctuary and Refuge for me to flee unto . Strengthen this Faith in me , which may serve as a Buckler to defend me from all tentations : and that forsaking the confidence or strength of all other things , I may flee wholly to thy mercy in Christ Iesus , whereby I may be protected from the terrours of thy Iudgement . Grant unto me distressed sinner , these graces , even for the same Iesus Christ his sake , who with thee , and the Holy Spirit , liveth and reigneth , for ever .

Or thus .

ALmighty and everlasting God , whose years fail not , and who hast determined the dayes of man , which he cannot pass , yet thy self endurest for ever , and thy Throne from generation to generation : Remember that I am but dust , like grass , and my dayes as the flower of the field , which flourisheth in the morning , and in the evening is dryed up and withered . O let me know my end , Psal. 39.5 . make me mindful of my mortality : 14. I am a stranger with thee , and a sojourner , as all my Fathers were , and cannot promise my self one hour , much less any dayes or years in this my Pilgrimage . I am like a tottering wall , 6. 2 , 3 : and a broken fence , give me grace therefore , that I trust not in the uncertainty of this life , like the rich Fool in the Gospel , Luc. 12. but I may every hour prepare my self in thy fear , to pass out of this frail mansion and to expect thee with a solid Faith , and firm Hope , waiting chearfully for the day and time of my dissolution : And looking for that blessed hope , Tit. 2. 13. and glorious appearing of our Saviour Iesus Christ Make me ( like the faithful and wise servant ) ever ready and prepared for the coming of my Lord , Lu. 12 , 43 lest being suddenly prevented , I be taken like a Bird in the snare of the Fowler . O Lord , Pro. 7.23 . thou hast by this gentle correction , put me in mind of my mortality , give me also grace , that I may make good use of it , that I may cast off all the cares of this world , and wholly betake my self to make my peace with thee . And I humbly pray thee , that thou wouldest not forget me in my pains and miseries , in all my infirmities : be not far from me , when by reason of the terrors of Death , and assaults of the Enemy , I have most need of thy help , but strengthen my soul with thy holy grace , against all sensations ; that my faith fail me not , but that thy holy Spirit assisting me , I may overcome my spiritual Enemies ; and at the hour of death , Lord , ( I beseech thee ) let thy servant depart in peace , according to thy word . Luc. 2.29 .

Or thus .

BLessed Lord Iesus Christ , the only comfort of the living , and the eternal life of those which dye in thee ; I wholly submit to thy blessed Will , whether it please thee to suffer my Soul any longer to live in this Earthly Tabernacle to serve thee , or to have it depart out of this transitory world , being certainly assured , that it cannot perish , if committed to thy keeping . O Lord , I put off this frail Flesh with a willing mind , in hope of the Resurrection of it at the last day , together with my Soul , when it will become much more glorious and happy than now it is . I beseech thee , O Lord Iesu , strengthen me with thy grace against all temptations , and defend me with the shield of thy mercy against all the assaults of the Devil . I know that of my self I have no strength : wherefore my whole confidence is in thee . I have no merits of mine own to allege , for I see many , yea too many , of my sins , to stand up against me ; but by thy mercy , I trust that thou wilt repute me amongst the just . Thou wert born for me , didst hunger , thirst , fast , and pray for me ; thou didst many good works , and sufferedst many bitter things for my sake . Let thy Blood wash away the spots of my Offences , let thy Iustice cover my Unrighteousness , and thy Merits plead for me before the great and severe Iudge . And as many sickness increaseth , let thy grace increase , that my faith fail not , my hope waver not , nor my love to thee wax cold . Let me not be cast down , or dejected with the terror of death ; but when death shall seize on the eyes of my body , let the eyes of my soul look to thee ; and when the use of my tongue shall fail me , Psal. 31 . 9● let my heart cry unto thee , I commend my spirit into thy hands , O Lord , who livest and reignest , &c.

Although thou kill me , Psal. 23.4 yet will I trust in thee , and though I walk in the midst of the shadow of death , yet will I not fear , because thou Lord art with me .

FINIS .

A short Table of the chief Heads contained in this Book . A General Exhortation to Gods Service . Pag. 1 To Prayer . 50 In regard of Gods Precept . 51 Promise . Ibid. Christs Example . 52 The Necessity . ib. The Dignity . 54 The Benefit . ib. Directions how to Pray . 1. To God only . 58 In Christ . 60 2. Faith . ib. 3. In Hope . 61 4. In Charity . 62 5. In Humility . 64 Of Spirit . 65 Of Body . ib. 6. In Perseverance . 68 With Fervency , Diligence , and Attention . 70 The Time for Prayer . 74 The Place for Prayer . 75 How to Pray Ariight . 76 Prayer divided into Parts . 78 The Use of the Lords Prayer . 82 The Lords Prayer Analysed . 85 Prayers for Spiritual Graces . 142 A Prayer before Prayer . 145 Before a Sermon . 147 Petitions for Temporal Blessings . 148 Rules for the Morning . 150 Morning Prayer private . 151 For a Family . 160 Rules for the Evening , and Night . 165 Evening Prayers private . 167 For a Family . 176 Prayers upon the Life and Death of Iesus Christ . 180 Prayers for several Persons . For a Married Man . 196 For a Married Woman . 198 For a Child . 200 For a Woman with Child : 201 For a Young Man , or Maid . 202 For a Servant . 205 Before a Iourney . 206 After a Iourney . 207 Intercession . 209 Deprecation . 211 In Affliction . 216 In Time of Pestilence . 218 The Creed Analysed . 221 Confession of Gods Glory . 242 Motives to Repentance . 246 The Duty of Repentance . 284 Confession of Sins . 287 Seven Penitential Psalms Paraphrased . 318 Direction before the Sacrament . 362 Meditations and Prayers Before the Sacrament . 365 Meditations and Prayers After the Sacrament . 376 Motives to Thanksgiving . 383 Thanksgivings . 386 Seven Psalms of Thanksgiving Paraphrased . 399 Imprecation . 432 The Ten Commandementts Paraphrased . 438 Meditations of Death . 469 Meditations for the Sick . 472 Prayers for the Sick . 479 FINIS .

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