The saints desire, or, A cordiall for a fainting soule declaring that in Christs righteousnesse onely ... there is life, happiness, peace ... also the happy estate of a man in Christ ... / by Samuel Richardson.

THE SAINTS DESIRE ; OR A Cordiall for a fainting soule .

Declaring that in Christs righteousnesse onely , ( and in nothing else ) there is life , happinesse , peace , strength , comfort , joy , and all fulnesse of perfection .

Also , the happy estate of a man in Christ , the life he lives , wherein he is exercised , his experiences , and his desires to enjoy God , &c.

Surely shall one say , In the Lord have I righteousnesse and strength , even to him shall men come , Isa. 45. 24. I will make mention of thy righteousnesse , even of thine onely , Psal. 71. 16. And these things write wee unto you , that your joy may be full , 1 Joh. 1. 4.

By SAMUEL RICHARDSON .

I heard sweet Jesus Christ unto me say , Rise my love , my faire one , and come away .

London , Printed by M. Simmons , and are to be sold by Hannah Allen , at the Crowne in Popes-head-Alley . 1647.

To the Right Honorable , Sir THOMAS FAIRFAX , Captain generall of all the Parliaments Forces in ENGLAND ; and Oliver Cromwell , Esquire , Lievtenant generall to the said Forces , such honour as is promised to all that honour the Lord Christ . Right Honourable ;

YOu two are so joyned , as it were in one , that it may be said of you , which was said of Jonathan and David , 1 Sam. 18. 1. 3. & 20. 42. ( two mighty warriours ) that their hearts were so knit , that they loved each other as their own soules ; they had such sweet experience of each others faithfulnesse , that it was not in the power of Saul ( though a King ) to break it , Prov. 12. 26. or cut it asunder ; and although many have attempted to doe the like to you , yet their labour hath been fruitlesse ; it hath bin a joy to many to see the effects of love so freely flow forth from each to other interchangeably , which is amiable , sweet , and lovely . Moreover , God hath raised you up , and set you in high places , where opportunities flow of doing good ; and which is more , God hath given you hearts to improve these opportunities to his glory , and the good of his people . You have also had many and great experiences of his protection , presence , & blessing , even to admiration ; it is the Lord alone , who hath wrought all your works for you : surely you may well stand astonished at his dealings with you ; all you can doe , is too little for him who hath done so much for you ; you know the sorrows , sufferings , and sighings of the people of God in this Kingdome , have been many and great , by reason of the Prelates Lording it over them in matters of Religion ; and their sorrows and sufferings are like to be greater , if the plots and snares laid against them take place , therefore now is the time for the righteous in authoritie to shew themselves for the people of God ; and such as sleepe and slumber had need quickly to be awaked , that they might rowse up themselves , & shake off that feare and faintnesse which possesseth their hearts , & arme themselves with resolution & courage , to hazard all , even life it selfe , upon a possibility of doing the least good , Prov. 29. 2. ( for to do good we live ) we rejoyce that God hath chosen you , ( with many others ) whom God hath kept waking for such a time as this . Next under God our eies are upon the house of Commons of England , to deliver us from temporall slavery , to free us from the oppression of men in matters of Religion ; we trust they will effect this work fully , 2 Epis. Joh. 8. Job 29 ( and God shall give them a full reward ) as good Job , who was a father to the poore , and the cause he knew not he searched out , and brake the jawes of the wicked , and plucked the spoile out of his teeth .

It is a great honour unto you , 1 Sam. 16. 18. that you have done valiantly , & so have been speciall instruments to save this Kingdome from destruction , & that God hath made you and your Armies so victorious ; but it is a greater honour unto you , that you are of the number of those that love the truth and people of God , and endeavour to rescue them from the hands of cruell and unreasonable men : the people of God are in the love of God , Joh 2 and ( which is more ) they are one with God , therefore God takes the good done to them as done to himselfe , Prov. 10. 30. abide by them , and you shall be in safety ; hold together , for they that seek their lives , seek yo●●● also : And as you have pleaded their cause , ( with many other Worthies with you ) so still goe on & prosper , Judg. 6. 12. the Lord is with you , you valiant men , the Saints love you , they pray & praise God for you ; England fareth the better for you , children unborn shall praise you , & blesse God for you , & the memorial of your names shal be for ever precious .

Most noble Worthies , Luk. 1. 3. I may seeme to passe the bounds of modesty , so to presse into your presence , but such is your humility and love , that you can passe by any defect in that kinde , and accept of that which is presented in love . And seeing God doth not despise the day of small things , Zach. 4. 10. I trust you will not ; the great respect you have shewed to the truth , and people of God , hath imboldened me to present you with the best I have , in love , out of a deep respect unto you ; the perusall and acceptance of which , I submit to your wisdomes , and humbly take my leave , and remaine

Your Honours much oblieged , SAMUEL RICHARDSON .

To all fainting and discouraged soules , who are lost and fatherlesse .

BEhold , I bring you tydings of great joy , that Jesus Christ came from Heaven to seeke and save you , Luk. 19. 10. You shall enjoy mercy , life , and glory by him ; for in him the fatherlesse finde mercy , Hos. 14. 3. You are they who hunger and thirst after Christ , and his righteousnesse ; this desire is from the in-being of the light and life of Christ in you , therefore thou art for the present blessed , and shalt be satisfied , Mat. 5. 6. Therefore you may be sure , God is at peace with you , he hath loving kindnesse for you , which is better then life : yea all is yours , for God is yours , and that for ever : Is not this , as good news from a farre Countrey , welcome and savoury ? Oh what can be more sutable , pleasant , profitable , or delightfull , better or more desireable ? Christ will give you that peace which cannot be taken from you : Oh the fulnesse , sweetnesse , gloriousnesse , and infinitenesse of this peace ! it passeth our understandings , we cannot fully impart it , because we doe not fully know it ; for we know but in part , yet a part wee know through grace , though many see not this peace , nor know not the way of it , to whom I have endeavoured to declare that mystery of love and grace revealed to me , desiring to obey Christs command , When thou art converted , to strengthen thy brethren . And diddest thou know the freenesse , fulnesse , sutablenesse , sweetnesse , and durablenesse of Gods rich grace to a creature who is nothing in his own eyes , who hath interest in it , and therefore may apply it , thou couldst not but be ravished with it . Consider what God hath given thee , and sent unto thee , and put into thy hand , even some of his rarest and choicest dainties , from his banquetting house , some flagons of his most excellent and richest wine , which is full of spirit and life , one taste is able to cheare and revive thy heart , yea raise and ravish thy fainting soule with love into love , yet drinke freely , the more the better , be filled with them , there is enough , Christs dainties are durable , his fountain is bottomlesse and infinite , it can never be exhausted or drawne dry , therefore eate , O friends , and drinke abundantly , and be drunke with them .

Here are means proposed , with some Scriptures , which tends to settle a troubled soule in the sweet enjoyment of the love of God : if God please to blesse them , they will be sweet and profitable to thee , in stead of darknesse , light shall shine clearly , sweetly , pleasantly , it 's the Lord onely that can cause the soule to see this light , and love , so as to live in it , being over-powered with it , and to walke sutable unto it ; if the Lord shall please to blesse this to thy soule , acknowledge his goodnesse with thankfulnesse and joy , as some have done ; the Lord give thee wisdome to know the truth , and to receive thy own portion , without which nothing can doe thee good , 1 Cor. 3. 6 , 7. Men may speake comfort , but they cannot comfort , it 's God that creates the fruit of the lips , peace : if he speake the word , it 's done , Gen. 1. 3. The Lord speake so to thee , that thou maist profit by it , and that thy joy may be full .

Also to you belong all the promises of this life , and that to come , Heb. 6. 17. Which rich treasure , God hath imparted in severall parts , that all the sonnes and daughters of truth might be comforted in , and satisfied with the injoyment of God in them . To this end here are comprized many principal promises , that you may with more ease and speed finde them , and suck sweetnesse from them , our lives cannot be sweet without them , in respect of the many miseries that attend us within and without : but those that live by faith are not troubled in a world of troubles , faith supplies all wants , this life of faith is the highest , therefore the best ; such as live it , know it to be a sweet , precious , and powerfull life , as appeares , Heb. 11. Faith honours God most , and God honours them most that live by faith , by it the Saints wrought righteousnesse , stopped the mouths of Lyons , of weake were made strong : By faith Jacob had power with God , Hos. 12. 3 , 4. By it Job could trust God , though God should kill him , Job 13. 15. By faith we live to God a life of joy in God our righteousnesse , as if we had never sinned : by faith we live above sin , infirmities , temptations , desertions , sense , reason , feares , doubts , &c. It sweetens the sweetest mercies , yea the bitterest miseries , faith makes great afflictions to be as none , it maintaines the soules strength and comfort . Christ lives in our hearts by faith , by it wee obey God : faith makes Christs yoke easie and sweet ; the fruition of God is all the soule can desire ; faith helps the soule to this , it puts the soule into possession of heaven while the body is on earth ; by it we view the glory of heaven , to know its worth , to enjoy the purchaser and purchase it selfe , by faith we know our selves to be happie , even then when to a carnall eye we seeme most miserable ; by faith we can part with the sweetest outward comforts , and welcome death , because wee know we leave the worst place and things , and goe to better ; they that live by faith , live upon God himselfe , and are feasted in our Lord Jesus banquetting house , where there is all the desirable dainties , and enough . Eate then O friends , drinke , yea , drinke abundantly O beloved , because it is the pleasure of our sweet Lord Jesus that his doe so , it 's their portion , duty , and priviledge , to digest , refresh , and make their soules merry with his dainties , to enjoy himselfe in them , that so their joy may be full .

And because it is the will of Christ that those who have found rest and peace in him should take his yoke upon them , as appeares , Mat. 11. 38 , 39. Here is added the Saints dutie and service to Christ , and the rather , for now is the time the love of many waxeth cold to God and man , Religion is esteemed of many to be but a bare notion , or a little speculation , nothing of practise , iniquitie abounds , many depart from the faith to needlesse disputes and principles , that destroy the foundation of Religion , no law , no transgression , no sinne , all alike , as appeares , Rom. 4. 15. So that many run the round , began at nothing , and end in nothing , so that many in stead of submitting to the yoke of Christ , cavill against it , so that few will submit unto it , notwithstanding it 's holy , just , light , easie , sweet , and a law of love . Call persons to obey Christ , and men are apt to think it legall and slavish , but if men were to worke for life , it were so indeed , we cannot doe any thing to procure the pardon of sinne , we only desire such as have received mercy and life from Christ , to act from the same life and power , according to the word of Christ , to Christ againe out of love and thankfulnesse ; surely such as have received mercy from him , vehemently desire to obey him , esteeming it a great priviledge to be imployed in his service ; also in keeping his commands , there is great reward , Psal. 19. By nature we are prone to desire libertie , and abuse it ; we need to be exhorted that we use not our libertie as an occasion to the flesh , Gal. 5. to sloath and ease , &c. Libertie to sinne is no libertie , but the greatest bondage that can be to have a free heart to serve God , and the lets outwardly removed is sweet libertie to enjoy God , is libertie to be set free by Christ from sin , Satan , hell , is to be freed indeed ; and though we have nothing to doe to be saved , we have something to doe for his glory , which is to be our meat and drinke , therefore let no difficultie hinder thee in serving thy Lord , say not it is impossible , consider Luk. 1. 6. 1 Pet. 4. 13. 19. Presse after perfection , the neerer the better , watch and pray to prevent sinne , to doe good , make it thy businesse to keepe Christs commands . Indeed all have not the like time to spend herein , the necessitie of outward things , hinders many that they cannot doe what otherwise they might and would , one wants time , another a heart , another both , we should consider whether we spare that time for these things we might , we can and will spare time for what we list and love , though they be things of lesse moment ; consider Song 8. 6 , 7. Were we so full of love , wee could not but spare some time , not onely from our recreation and idle visits , but from our sleepe and callings , wee would redeeme time , and cut off needlesse expences too by time ; that time is sweet and precious , in which the soule beholds God , and glory , and hath communion with him : when wee consider how farre short we come of our dutie , we may say with griefe and sorrow , Lord , what is man , a very vanitie ; And notwithstanding wee come farre short of what we ought to doe , wee are not to sit downe discouraged , but to live by faith in all infirmities above infirmities , beholding and enjoying thy joy and peace with God : when thou art at the worst , as knowing no infirmitie can lessen the love of God to those who are his , yet are wee to take notice wherein wee come short with griefe , looking up to him by faith for more strength , to serve him better , esteeming it a great priviledge to be circumspect in all our actions to God and man .

There be some other sever all things contained in this Treatise , which I trust will be of use to some : and as for the directions concerning the Scriptures , they have been observed by many to be necessary to cut off many errors . I have added some other things : my whole aime and scope in all I have written , is , first , to sustaine , comfort , and incourage the discouraged soule from sinking in despaire , by reason of their many and great sinnes : secondly , to withdraw the soule from the life of its own hand , to the life of the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation . Thirdly , that the soule might know and live in the assurance of the love of God , which will fill the soule full of life , sweetnes , and joy . Fourthly , that the soule should obey Christ , and live to his glory , and suffer for him . Fiftly , to prevent errors , and to recall such of the Lords , who have through mistake fallen into them by the wiles of Satan . You are not to expect vaine Philosophy , nor intising words of the wisdome of man ; for here it is not : I have desired and endeavoured to make the truth appeare by the evidence and demonstration of the holy Scriptures , 2 Pet. 1. 19. as that which is most safe and profitable for our soules to venture themselves upon ; and seeing they are to be our onely rule , search the Scriptures to see whether what I have declared be so or no , and I trust you shall find it true and sweet , ( though others , through mistake , may call it error . ) Now the Lord of heaven and earth , enable thee and all his to looke up to him to be taught by him , to enjoy him , and to walke so before him , that they may honour him , and that their joy may be full .

Extoll him that rideth upon the heavens by his name Jah , and rejoyce before him , Psal. 68. 4. The most mightie whose name is Jah , his servant SAMUEL RICHARDSON .

Faults escaped in the Printing .

Page . Line . Word . Read . 33. 23. filled . fitted . 55. 3. Eph. Colos. 56. 10. live , leave . 111. 23. Pauls , parts . 185. 26. shau , shall . 219. 3. sure , fa●re . 265. 17. difference , discerne . 256. 26. save , serve . 276. 6. meanes , mens consequences . 315. title . free grace , free will . 318. 12. of ours , dash out . 325. 12. men . if men . 365. 14. noyse , voyce ,

The other mistakes correct , or passe by in love .

THE MISERABLE ESTATE of a Man by nature . ISAI . 44. 20. He feedeth upon ashes : a deceived heart hath turned him aside , that be cannot deliver his soule , nor say ; Is there not a lie in my right hand ?

THese words declare the dead and miserable estate of a man by nature .

1. In this he is described to be one that is without knowledge and understanding ; for he hath shut their eyes that they cannot see , and their hearts that they cannot understand , vers. 18 , 19. They are in the state of nature , in the state of death , as appeares , vers. 16 , 17.

2. The food he eateth is described to be ashes .

3. He hath an appetite unto them , he lives upon them ; he feedeth upon ashes .

4. The end of his feeding is , that he might live , and deliver his soule .

5. But he is mistaken , he is deluded , he is turned aside .

6. The cause of this delusion , is from his owne heart , which deceives him , and turnes him aside .

7. Here is the strength of his delusion , in that he cannot say , Is there not a lye in my right hand ?

8. The sum of all is , his soule is taken prisoner by Satan , he is a captive to him , and so kept by him that he cannot deliver his soule .

Ashes . ] That is to say ; 1. groundlesse hopes ; 2. false conclusions ; 3. Idolatry ; 4. duties ; 5. ordinances ; 6. comforts ; 7. joyes ; 8. ravishment ; 9. or what else soever yee can name , except Jesus Christ , is ashes . Jesus Christ is the true bread ; other things may be taken for bread , and in appearance , have the same colour , and forme , like this bread , but let them seeme what they can , they are no bread indeed , but ashes . But Christ is the true bread , his flesh is meat indeed , and his bloud drinke indeed ; He is the living bread which came downe from Heaven ; if any man eate of this bread , he shall live for ever , Joh. 6. 32. 35. 48. 51. 55. &c.

Feedeth upon ashes . ] This implies he hath an expectation to injoy satisfaction from them , his going to them , application of them , contentednesse with them , declares he hath satisfaction in them , and lives upon them .

The words opened .

By heart is meant the understanding and will .

Deceived heart , mis-informed by Satan , darkened .

Aside , from Christ , in whom is deliverance , rest , and satisfaction .

Turned him , viz. the understanding and will , hath a power to turne the soule .

Soule , is meant the whole man , a principall part being put for the whole .

Deliver , escape the danger he is in .

A lye , viz. that is that which will deceive me , in not being unto me that I take it for , that which will not be that to me I need , that which will not performe that it promiseth to be to me .

Hand , that which holds , mystically the understanding , &c.

Right hand , that is most eminent for use , viz. in those things which are most eminent , that are of greatest concernment , the soule is deceived .

1. A naturall man is sensible of the want of something he needs for his soule , Obser . therefore he saith ; Wherewith shall I come before the Lord ? shall I come before him with burnt offerings , with calves of a yeare old ? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of Rams , or with ten thousands of Rivers of oyle ? Shall I give my first-borne for my transgression , the fruit of my body for the sinne of my soule ? Micah 6. 6 , 7. All this is ashes .

2. There is not any life or strength to be expected from ashes , they are no food fit to eate ; as ashes naturally corrupts the body , and destroys it , so here they fill the soule with corruption , and will kill and destroy the soule at last , as they that have no bread must dye for hunger , Luk. 15. 17.

3. The food naturall men live upon is ashes , they have no better food to live upon , bread they have none , they know not where any better is , nor doe they desire and bread , Isa. 55. 2. Ashes is sutable to their natures , judgements , desires , affections , they know no danger in eating of ashes , they thinke it is a happinesse to have them , and that they shall have satisfaction from them .

Eaters of ashes are in a dangerous condition , they must dye spiritually and eternally : there be many that eat ashes , they thinke and dreame they eat bread , but they are deceived , as Isai . 29. 8. They follow vanitie , Hab. 2. 3. The East winde , Hos. 12. 1. And lay out their money for that which is no bread , Isai . 55. 2.

What doest thou eate and live upon bread or ashes , when thou art empty ?

1. What doest thou eye , whether doest thou goe ? goest thou to nothing but to Christ ; onely wee have hope in Christ , 1 Cor. 15. 19. Is thy hope onely in Christ ?

2. In what doest thou find peace , comfort , contentment , satisfaction in ? is it in nothing else but Christ ? Phil. 3. 8.

3. Where lyeth thy life and strength ? is it in nothing but in Christ ? without me yee can doe nothing , Joh. 15. 5. Col. 3. 11.

Will no peace , comfort , praise of men , duties , ordinances , joyes , ravishments , satisfie thee ? will nothing but Jesus Christ , but Christ is all in all , Col. 3. 11. If it be so , it is well .

Comfort to all that eat this bread , yee shall be satisfied , yee doe live , and shall live for ever , Joh. 6. Oh you may well be thankfull for this so great mercy , that yee have bread to eat , which others have not , nor know not of , they famish and dye for want of bread ; yet thou hast enough , and shalt ever have enough ; in my Fathers house there is bread enough , and to spare . Luk. 15. 17.

4. There is nothing in him that can helpe him ; if he follow his own heart , he is misled , his heart is deceived , it turnes him aside , and leads him to death ; if he follow his light , his understanding , he follows darknesse , his light is darknesse , Mat. 6. 33. ( man in himselfe is irrecoverably lost ) he that walketh in darknesse , knoweth not whither he goeth , Joh. 12. 35. We were sometimes darknesse , Ephes. 5. 8.

5. Consider mans heart is not to be hearkened unto , because it turnes the soule aside from Christ ; what , doest thou hearken unto , and live upon , thy owne heart , &c. or on Christ ?

1. Many in stead of living upon God , live upon a deceived heart , as Pro. 3. 5 , 6. 7.

2. Others live upon sense .

3. Others live upon corrupt reason .

4. Some build their hope of salvation upon other mens judgements , who if they be godly , may easily be mistaken in a close hypocrite .

5. Many live upon the report of others , which appears by this , that if men speak not well of them , they are greatly troubled , & are not able to beare it , by which it appeares their life is in it ; it was no wonder Laban made such adoe in searching for his images , because they were his gods .

6. Many live upon their reformations , they thanke God they are not so bad as they have been , therefore they have hope ; it 's well when men grow better , yet abstinence from evill , is no evidence of grace ; for men may forbeare the acts of sinne for feare of hell or men , &c.

7. Others live upon duties , and as they are increased , their hope and confidence in God is increased , but if their duties faile them , their hope and comfort is gone ; by which it appeares , they live upon what they doe , and not upon God ; these count their duties , which is their righteousnesse gaine : but if they belong to God , they must count againe , as Paul did , this their gaine to be losse for Christ , Phil. 3. 8.

8. Some live upon their peace , they thanke God , they are quiet , there is no terrors , nor feare of hell in them , therefore thinke they are in a good estate : a most subtill delusion .

9. Others live upon groundlesse hope , because their sinnes are few or small ( as they thinke ) they have hope .

10. Many live upon their inward comforts and joy , which appeares by this , that whilst they last , they have much assurance of the love of God , and are sure of salvation ; but as soone as their comfort , joy , which was sensibly felt , leaves them , their confidence went with their comfort , and leaves them in a sad condition .

11. Others upon ravishments and excasies of glory , &c.

12. Many live upon the ordinances of men , and stand ready resolved to be of any Religion the Authority will impose upon them ; and the more easie it is for their persons and purses , the more it shall have of their hearts .

13. Yea and many there be that live upon the ordinances of God , without God , these so they may frequent the ordinances ; they are satisfied , though they see not God in them , and be never the better for them .

14. Others live upon their confidence of salvation .

15. And some live upon creature-comforts , and conclude , because they possesse them , God loves them .

16. And many live upon the Devill , and his word , that is , when Satans suggestions are hearkened unto , liked , beleeved , imbraced , obeyed , as if he should say , their sinne shall never be pardoned , nor subdued , they beleeve him , and are ruled by him ; this is to live upon the Devill , as to hearken unto God , as Isa. 53. 3. To beleeve in him , 1 Joh. 3. 23. and to submit themselves to God , Jam. 4. 7. is to live upon God .

A false foundation and a false life goe together , therefore whosoever they be that live upon any thing besides God in Christ , as their foundation is unsound , so certainly it will deceive them , whatsoever their sparkes be , they must and shall lie downe in sorrow , as Isa. 50. 10. they are all lying vanities , and they that hearken unto them forsake their own mercies , as Jonah 2. 8.

A man is prone to follow the advise of his heart .

The reason is :

1. Because he thinkes his heart knows .

2. That his own heart will not deceive himselfe ; but who so trusteth in his owne heart is a foole , Prov. 28. 26. Isai . 10. 7. Jer. 23. 26.

3. He is ignorant of the desperate wickednesse of his heart ; The heart is deceitfull above all things , and desperately wicked , who can know it ? Jer. 17. 9.

4. He knows no better Counsellor ; happy is he who is so acquainted with his hearts deceitfulnesse , that he will not trust to it , nor hearken unto it .

5. The heart is the ●a●se of all the errors and miscarriages of men ; for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh , Luk. 6. 45. Mat. 15. 19. What men thinke , speake , or doe , is from the heart .

6. A man by nature desires that his soule may be delivered , because he apprehends his soule is in danger , and that it is of great concernment unto him for his soule to be delivered .

7. A naturall man doth indeavour to save and deliver himselfe : men seeke deliverance for themselves from themselves .

Reasons .

1. He judgeth it a reasonable thing that his soule be delivered .

2. He knows no other way of deliverance , save that of his own , either wholly or in part .

3. He thinkes it concerns him most , therefore it is his dutie to doe it , who else should ?

4. He is perswaded he may deliver his soule , or that without him it cannot be delivered .

Man can do no better , till God manifest to him the perfection of Christs righteousnesse , then shall he see the insufficiency of his own , Rom. 10. 3.

8. He cannot deliver his soule , all that man can doe , it is impossible for man to save himselfe in whole or in part , it is beyond his power , he cannot doe it ; untill a soule be convinced he cannot deliver himselfe , he rests in himselfe : God hath not left it to the will and power of man to deliver himselfe .

Reasons .

1. That no man may boast , Ephes. 2. 9. That the pride in man might be dashed in pieces .

2. That no man might live in and upon himselfe , nor joy in himselfe , but rejoyce in the Lord Jesus Christ , and have no confidence in the flesh , Phil. 3. 1. 3.

3. That Gods power and free love might be manifested ; That we might know the exceeding greatnesse of his power to us-ward , who beleeve his mightie power , Eph. 1. 19.

4. That God might have all the glory , Ephes. 1. 6. That no flesh should glory , 1 Cor. 1. 29. Gal. 6. 14. In the Lord shall all the seed of Israel be justified , and shall glory , Isa. 55. 25.

9. All wayes besides Christ are by-paths , aside out of the way : I am the way , Joh. 14. 6.

10. Christs way and mans way are contrary each to other : Christs way leads the soule to Christ ; mans way leads to himselfe , to deliver himselfe .

11. Wee should not be led aside from Christ by any thing ; hearken then onely to Chr●●●

12. Nor say , is there not a lye ? and that is , he cannot aske a question , &c.

13. The meanes of deliverance is so hid from man , that he hath no power to use them .

14. A lye , all that man doth rest upon while he is in the state of nature , is nothing but a lye ; oh , he is miserably deluded .

15. The strength and confidence of a deluded man , may be so great , that it may seeme to him unreasonable once to question it .

16. Mens confidence of salvation , may be greater and stronger then the faith of some of the Lords ; and yet it is false and nothing but the delusion of a deceived heart , and Satan .

17. The greatnesse or strength of any mans confidence , cannot assure him that hath it , that it is not a delusion ; but it is proved to be true or false by the ground of it , the cause and foundation of it . If it be built or caused by any of mans qualifications , either abstinence from sin , doing good , or from his inward peace , comfort , joy , &c. it 's false . But if it be founded upon Christ , onely in his free grace , from the word and promise of God , Rom. 15. 4. In his word doe I hope , Psal. 130. 5. But I hope in thy word , Psal. 119. 81. it is true ; did God so convince thee , that thou becamest lost and fatherles , Hos. 14. 3. and perswaded thee he had mercy for thee , and caused thee to hope in him for it , Psal. 33. 18. 21. 22. it is no delusion .

FINIS .

NEWES FROM HEAVEN , OR A CORDIALL for a fainting Heart . 2 COR. 5. 20 , 21.

Now then we are Ambassadors for Christ , as though God did beseech you by us , we pray you in Christs stead , be yee reconciled to God .

For he hath made him to be sin for us , that knew no sin , that we might be made the righteousnesse of God in him .

BEhold , and hearken , for here are tydings of great joy , that Christ alone doth free the soule from sin , and makes the soule to enjoy the righteousnesse of God in him ; in which is sure , sweet , cleare , full , durable , divine consolation , sufficient to cheare , revive , raise and ravish the sinking soule , by reason of sin , in the want of a righteousnesse of God in him .

These words containe many divine truths , I shall endeavour to declare some observations from them for our instruction and consolation .

In that he saith , Be yee reconciled to God , you may observe ,

Obs. 1. That the best estate of men by nature is an estate of enmitie against God , who is the chiefest good ; for if these need any reconciliation , how much more enemies ? Rom. 5. 10.

For he hath made him to be sin for us .

Obs. 2. God hath in his wisdome and love found out a way to save lost man , and hath sent the Lord Jesus to effect it , Zach. 9. 10 , 11. and manifest it , and hath sent Ambassadors , and given us his word to declare his great grace , Joh. 1. 17. infinite love , Joh. 3. 16. and the unsearchable riches of Christ .

Be yee reconciled to God , for he hath made him to be sin for us .

Obs. 3. That there needs strong reasons and earnest intreaties , yea the arme of the Lord must be revealed in them , to reconcile a sinfull soule to God , Isa. 53. 1.

As though God did beseech you .

Obs. 4. God is more willing to pardon a sinner , yea the chiefe of sinners , then any soule is or can be willing to be pardoned . This appeares in that God seeks to us to be reconciled ; man seeks it not : I was found of them that sought me not , Isa. 65. 1 , 2 , 3. And in that God beseecheth a lost sinner to be reconciled to God ; and when we prodigals turne to God , being turned by God , we doe but goe , and that softly ; but God who is that Father , runneth to receive us , as Luk. 15. 18. 20. And as running expresseth much more willingnesse , then an easie going , so it is here .

God beseecheth you by us , wee pray you in Christs stead .

Obs. 5. It appeares that all the doubts and feares the soule or Satan can frame , as if God were unwilling to pardon a lost sinner , ( Luk. 19. 10. ) are all groundlesse and false ; for he prayeth and beseeches to be reconciled , as if he should say , goe tell such a soule from me , I will have him to be reconciled to me , I am not angry with him , he need not doubt of my love , which is infinite , without time or measure , I am all-sufficient , I can and I will passe by all his wickednesse against me .

Be yee reconciled ; we pray you .

Obs. 6. That even such sinners as God sends after , and will save , they have many hard thoughts of God , they are so foolish and so deceived by sin , that they are contented to be as they are , and stand in need to be prayed and intreated to be reconciled to God .

As though God did beseech you by us .

Obs. 7. That all those into whom God hath put this word of reconciliation , when it is declared unto us by them , or in his Word , we ought to receive it , and beleeve it , as if God did immediately speak unto us , for they speake in his stead : So also it is the duty of the Ambassadors of Christ to declare nothing but the message they receive from Christ , according to the word of Christ .

We pray you , be yee reconciled to God ; for he hath made him to be sin for us .

Obs. 8. The way God takes to reconcile a sinner unto himselfe , is the discovery of his free grace and love of God done to man through Christ .

The discovery of this to the soule , expels ignorance , and slayeth the soules enmity against God ; and by his love he draweth the soule to God in love again ; Gods way of saving man is onely in a way of love ; therefore he saith , Behold , I will allure her , and speake comfortably unto her , Hos. 2. 14. His love is free , full , and eternall ; I will love them freely , Hos. 14. 4. I drew them with cords of a man , with bands of love , Hos. 11. 4.

Be reconciled ; for he hath made him to be sin for us .

Obs. 9. It appeares that the sense and guilt of sin , doth hinder the soule from being reconciled ; sin causeth the soule to desire to be at a further distance from God , as Luk. 5. 8.

Ob. 10 That before a sinner can be reconciled unto God , he must understand and know the cause , way , and meanes of his salvation , ( I say not before God loves him ) therefore as it is declared ; that all have sinned , and come short of the glory of God , &c. Rom. 3. So he declares that Jesus Christ is made sin for us , and that wee are justified freely by his grace , through the redemption that is in Jesus , whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his bloud , to declare his righteousnesse for the remission of sinnes , that he might be just , and the justifier of him that beleeves in Jesus , Rom. 3. 23 , 24 , 25 , 26. see Rom. 5. 10 , 11. 13. 19. Rom. 6. 23. Titus 3. 5.

He hath made him .

Obser . 11. God the Father hath set apart the Lord Jesus to save man , Heb. 9. 14. 22. Rev. 13. 8. There is no other name whereby we may be saved , but by the name of Jesus , Act. 4. 12.

Which knew no sinne .

Obser . 12. Christ knew no sin in himselfe personally , Luk. 1. 35. nor inherently , Heb. 14. 5. nor experimentally , Joh. 8. 40.

Obser . 13. And seeing Christ is so holy a person and so qualified as he is , Col. 2. 3. none ought to doubt of the sufficiency , meritoriousnesse , and effectualnesse of whatsoever he hath undertaken to doe : for by once offering the sacrifice of himselfe , he hath for ever perfected them that are sanctified ; that is , set apart , Heb. 10. 10. 14.

Obser . 14. So that the sinfull soule ought to cast away all discouragements , and to rest satisfied in this full , perfect , and infinite satisfaction , and not suffer their foolish hearts to seeke after , or desire any other , for as there is none to be found elswhere , so there needs none ; for be thy sinnes never so great , or many , this one satisfaction of the Lord Jesus is sufficient .

Made him to be sinne .

Obser . 15. God hath imputed our sinnes unto Christ , and so laid them upon him , Esa. 53. 5. that they are not ours no more but Christs , who hath freed us from them , who will disanull them , and so free himselfe of them , so that he shall appeare without sin , Heb. 9. 28.

Obser . 16. The way and meanes God hath chosen to free a sinner from sin , is onely by Jesus Christ , that he might undergoe the penalty of sin , or else no man could be saved , as these Scriptures declare , Joh. 1. 1. 7. Joh. 1. 29. Rom. 8. 2. Ephes. 2. 14 , 15. Rev. 1. 5. Heb. 9. 22. Col. 1. 20. Zach. 9. 11. For sin must be charged upon Christ , or the sinner , and our happinesse lyeth in this , that our sinnes are not imputed unto us , Psal. 32. 1 , 2. Rom. 4. 8. Our sins cost Christ deare , that they might cast us nothing , Rom. 5. 9. 1 Pet. 1. 18 , 19.

For us .

Ob. 17 The word , us , and wee , in this verse , must be understood for them in the 19. verse , to whom God doth not impute their trespasses : So that they are blessed , Psal. 32. 1 , 2. Rom. 4. 7. for they shall not misse of glory , because they have redemption by his bloud , and remission of sinnes , as Col. 1. 14. Rom. 5. 10. Therefore by the words , us , and wee , cannot truly be understood every son and daughter of Adam .

For so large as the purpose of God is of saving men , so large is the meanes of this salvation , so large is the declaration to be , so large is the particular application of salvation to be , & so large is the effect of salvation it selfe ; none of these are any larger then the other .

If any reply that Christ in the declaration is offered to all , therefore the particular application of salvation is to be to all .

I answer , That Christ is not offered to all , nor to none at all : true , it is the Gospel is to be preached to every creature , and that all persons whosoever will are called to come to Christ to drinke , &c. But what Scripture saith , Christ is offered to any person , much lesse to all the world ? God so loved the world , that whosoever beleeves in him , should not perish , but have everlasting life . This is a declaration of what persons God will save : the word of God is a declaration of the will of God ; now for to declare a thing , and to offer it , is not one thing ; for one may declare to another , the riches that he or another hath , and yet not offer any of them , nor it may be cannot ; and so a man may give that to another , which he never offered him .

It 's safest to keep to the language of the Scriptures ( which forme of words are sound ) especially in this age , in which men catch up expressions , and by them abuse God , and his truth , and themselves ; for if one affirme , that God offereth Christ to all ; men reply , doth not God meane as he saith ? and if God offers Christ , and man hath not a sufficient power to receive him ; they are mocked , and God is unjust , &c. and that men have free-will , and such like stuffe , so that yee may see how one error draweth many after it , and it 's oft grounded upon an unsound expression .

Made sin : made the righteousnesse of God .

Obser . 18. After what manner Christ became a sinner , after the same manner wee are made just ; but he became a sinner not by any infusion of our corrupt qualities , but by imputation onely : Therefore wee are just before God , not by infusion of any habituall grace into our corrupt natures , but by imputation of his righteousnesse ; God imputeth righteousnesse without works , Rom. 4. 6. If this were well minded , it might answer and remove some temptations , which are occasioned by apprehending the contrary .

The righteousnesse of God .

Obser . 19. Christs righteousnesse is the righteousnesse of God . That righteousnesse which freeth a sinner from the curse of the Law is a perfect righteousnesse , Heb. 1. 8. Rom. 9. 5. Mat. 6. 33. Rom. 4. 6. Therefore prize it highly .

Obser . 20. Mans righteousnesse is imperfect , and could not justifie him before God ; Enter not into judgement with thy servant , for in thy sight shall no man living be justified , Psal. 143. 2. Dan. 9. 18. Tit. 3. 5. 7. All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags , &c. Isai . 64. 4. 6. God reveales to a soule Christs righteousnesse , and the soules interest unto it , Joh. 16. 14. To comfort the soule , and cause the soule to love God againe , he doth not comfort us in the sight of our own righteousnesse , before he declares and comforts the soule in the righteousnesse of Christ .

Righteousnesse in him .

Obser . 21. That righteousnesse which justifieth us before God , as it is not ours , so it is not in us , but as it is Christs righteousnesse , so it is in him : In the Lord have I righteousnesse and strength : in me you shall have righteousnesse and strength , Isa. 45. 23 , 24 , 25.

Obser . 22. The cause or forme of our justification , is by a reciprocall translation of our sin unto Christ , and his righteousnesse unto us : both which is done by God for us .

That we might be made .

Obser . 23. Whatsoever Jesus Christ hath done and suffered , was for those whose sinnes were laid upon him , who are stated in him , Ephes. 1. 4. and are fully pardoned by him , Rev. 1. 5. By the obedience of one man ( viz. Christ ) many are made righteous , Rom. 5. 19. By his stripes we are healed , Isa. 53. 5. The bloud of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin , 1 Joh. 1. 7.

In him .

Obser . 24. God considers his to be in Christ , before they had a beeing in themselves , Ephes. 1. 4. and he never lookes upon his children out of him , for they are never out of him : They dwell in Christ , Joh. 6. 56. and shall ever live , Joh. 9. 25. and be found in him , Phil. 3. 8.

Obser . 25. Christ and all true beleevers are so united together , that they are but one ; one body , one spirit , bone of his bone : oh what union is like to this , that is so reall , full , and intire , wonderfull , glorious , spirituall , eternall , and infinite ! 1 Cor. 6. 17. Gal. 5. 30. &c. Joh. 15. 5. Joh. 17. 22 , 23. If our faith in Christ were as strong as our union with Christ , wee should ingrosse and possesse all that is in heaven , and nothing in the earth could trouble us .

Obser . 26. The state of a beleever in Christ , as considered in him , is an estate of perfection ; We are complete in him , Col. 2. 9 , 10. 13. As Christ is , so am I ; as I am , so is Christ , Joh. 1. 17. What is Christs is mine ; what is mine is his ; Christs righteousnesse is mine : I am all righteous , I need no more , nor no other righteousnesse ; as I am in Christ , I am as righteous and as acceptable as Christ ; God seeth no sin in me , because there is none ; for , I am all faire , there is no spot in me , Song 4. 7. Song 2. 10. Ephes. 5. 25 , 26 , 27. For as he is , even so are we in this world , 1 Joh. 4. 17. Thou hast cast all my sinnes behinde thy backe , Isa. 38. 17. As far as the East in from the West , so far hath he removed our transgressions from us , Psal. 103. 12. Seventy weeks are determined upon the people , and upon the holy Citie , to finish the transgressions , and to make an end of sinnes , and to make reconviliation for iniquitie , and to bring in an everlasting righteousnesse , to seale up the vision , and prophecy , and to anoynt the most Holy , Dan. 9. 24. I will greatly rejoyce in the Lord , my soule shall be joyfull in my God , for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation , he hath covered me with the robe of righteousnesse , Isa. 61. 10. All Saints are alike clothed with Christs righteousnesse : the meanest , the weakest , as the best , and is as acceptable by it as the best : oh they are all alike perfect , righteous , and glorious , as they are in Christ ! oh , here is strong consolation for thy fainting heart , to refresh it selfe withall ! Drinke , O friends , and make yee merry , O welbeloved ; yea drink , drink abundantly in this fountaine that is bottomlesse , and therefore can never be drawne dry , Song 5. 1.

In the most perfect Saints , as they are in themselves , there is much sin , 1 Joh. 1. 10. and God doth see it ; yet God cannot condemne them to wrath for it , no more then God can condemne Christ for it , who shall appeare without sin , Heb. 9. 28. They being in him who hath suffered for it ; and Justice neither will nor can exact the payment of a debt twice : now it 's justice in God to justifie , Rom. 3. 25. yea , God is as just in pardoning a sinner by the bloud of Christ , as he is just in condemning any ; and now thou hast a full pardon by justice as well as mercy , therefore drinke freely , Song 5. 1.

For us .

Obser . 27. That which is spoken in generall to beleevers , every beleever is to apply it to himselfe in particular ; so Paul , he loved me , and gave himselfe for me , Gal. 2. 20.

For us , for me .

Obser . 28. The word and promise of God , that it is for me , is that which my soule should fix its eye upon , and by faith for ever relie upon , and be a full satisfaction to my soule ; knowing that the word and promise of God is the onely ground of my faith , and is securitie sufficient for my salvation .

Obser . 29. As soone as the soule is convinced , that Jesus Christ is made sin for me , and that I am made the righteousnesse of God in him , all the soules doubts , feares , objections vanish , and Christ is beleeved in , and lived upon , with thankfulnesse and joy .

Obser . 30. Jesus Christ being made sin for me , is as good for me , yea better for me , then if I had never sinned ; as much better as a spirituall body is better then a naturall , as much better as the image of the heavenly is better then the image of the earthly ; yea , as much better as strength is better then weaknesse , and as heaven is better then earth , 1 Cor. 15. 43 , 44. to 55.

But , Obj. 1. saith a discouraged soule , I cannot beleeve the Lord Jesus was made sin for me .

Why not for thee ? Ans.

Because my sins are greater then others be ; Obj. 2. for my sins have all the aggravations upon them that can be .

For mine are many . Ag. 1.

So were theirs in the second and third Chapter of Jeremiah , Ans. yet notwithstanding God pardoned them all , as appeares , Jer. 3. 21. to 25.

But my sins are great and hainous . Ag. 2.

So were theirs , Ans. and so were Manassehs , as appeares , 2 King . 21. 4. 9. 11. 16. and so was the womans , Luk. 7. 47. and so was Pauls , 1 Tim. 1. 15. yet God pardoned them all , as he hath done others .

But my sins are against the Gospel . Ag. 3.

So was Pauls , Ans. he persecuted them that professed the Gospel , and made havock of the Church , entring into every house , haling men and women , and committed them to prison , Act. 8. 3. And Christ died for them that slew him , Act. 2. 23. 38.

But mine are af●er many mercies . Ag. 4.

So was Solomons , Answ. who sinned against God after the Lord appeared unto him twice , 1 King . 11. 9.

But I have sinned against Gods intreaties to returne . Aggr. 5.

So did they ; Answ. I said after shee had done all these things ; Turn thou unto me , but shee returned not , Jer. 3. 7.

But I have sinned against Gods Reproofes . Aggr. 6.

So did they ; Answ. Thou hast a whores forehead , that refusest to be ashamed , Jer. 3. 3. 8.

But I have sinned against Gods corrections in not being reformed by them . Aggr. 7.

So did they ; Answ. In vaine have I smitten your children , they have received no correction , Jer. 2. 30.

But I have committed one sin often . Ag. 8.

So did they ; Answ. Thou hast played the harlot with many lovers , Jer. 3. 1. 6.

But I have continued sinning for a long continuance of time . Ag. 9.

So did they ; Answ. We have not obeyed the voyce of the Lord from our youth unto this day , Jer. 3. 25. & 2. 22.

But my sinnes are against knowledge and Conscience . Aggr. 10.

So was Davids sin concerning Bathshebah , Answ. and putting to death Vriah . And so did Peter sin when he said and swore he knew not Christ , and that he was not with him , Mat. 26. 69. to 75.

But I am fallen back from what I have been . Aggr. 11.

So did they ; Answ. Returne thou backsliding Israel , Jer. 3. 6. 12.

But I have willingly and resolvedly forsaken God . Aggr. 12.

So did they ; Answ. saying , We are Lords , wee will come no more at him , Jer. 3. 31 , 32.

But I have willingly chosen sin . Ag. 13.

So did they ; saying , Answ. I have loved strangers , and after them will I goe , Jer. 2. 25.

But I have seduced others , Aggr. 14. and caused them to sin .

So did they ; Answ. Thou hast also taught the wicked ones thy wayes , Jer. 2. 33. And Manasseh seduced them to doe more evill then did the Nations whom the Lord destroyed ; and made Judah also to sin , 2 King . 21. 9. 11. 16. And Paul compeld men to blaspheme , Act. 26. 11. 16. Manasseh a great sinner obtained mercy , 2 Chron. 33. 18 , 19. And a lesser sinner perisheth in his sin ; that men may know , the Lord will have mercy on whom he will , Rom. 9. 15.

But I have committed as much sin as I could . Aggr. 15.

So did they ; Answ. Behold thou hast spoken and done as evill things as thou couldst , Jer. 3. 5.

But my sins are after vowes and Covenants . Aggr. 16.

So were theirs ; Answ. Thou saidst , I will not transgresse , when upon every high hill , and under every greene tree thou wanderest , playing the harlot , Jer. 2. 25.

But I have justified my selfe in all my sinnes . Aggr. 17.

So did they ; Answ. Because thou saidst , I have not sinned , I will plead with thee , Jer. 2. 35.

But I despaire , Aggr. 18. and have no hope of mercy .

This is worst of all ; Answ. yet so did they ; Thou saidst there is no hope , Jer. 2. 25. And when I cry , he shutteth out my prayer , and I said , My strength , and my hope is perished with the Lord , said Jeremiah , Lam. 3. 8. 18. And Job said , My hope hath he removed like a tree , Job 19. 10. My dayes are spent without hope , Job 7. 6. 13 , 14 , 15 , 16. David in his hast , said , I am out off before thine eyes , Psal. 31. 22. Abraham beleeved against hope , Rom. 4. 18. Yee were sometimes afar off , without God , and without hope , Ephes. 2. 12. yet at last they were made nigh by the bloud of Christ , Eph. 2. 13. Behold , all these were once like unto thee , and the Lord hath had mercy upon them , and so he may have mercy upon thee also , therefore poore soule , be not out of hope , mind what David said , I was brought low , and he helped me , Psal. 116. 6. God is able to save to the uttermost , Heb. 7. 25. Consider what the name of the Lord is , Exod. 34. 5 , 6 , 7. Oh the unsearchable riches of his grace ! all that know his Name will trust in him , Psal. 9. 10.

And because the greatnesse of sin is one of the greatest discouragements to a soule under the sense of sin ; Consider these things which are incouragements of hope unto thee .

1. Incouragement to hope . 1. Incoura .

The multitude or greatnesse of sinne , ought not to be a discouragement unto thee , because the fewnesse or smalnesse of thy sinnes are not to be any ground , or cause of thy confidence in God for pardon ; but in the promise of God of pardon , in which promise the truth and faithfulnesse is .

2. Incouragement to hope . 2. Incoura .

Because the word of God doth no where say , that great sinners shall not be saved , therefore to conceive so is folly , and no lesse then a delusion of Satan .

3. Incouragement to hope . 3. In coura .

Because the word of God saith the contrary , that Jesus Christ came to save sinners , yea and the chiefe sinners , and this is a saying worthy of all acceptation , 1 Tim. 1. 15 , 16. Come now let us reason together , saith the Lord , though your sinnes were as crimson , they shall be made white as snow , though they were red like scarlet , they shall be made as wooll , Isaiah 1. 18. The word of God declares many great and sweet promises to great sinners , as Jer. 3. Isa. 55. 7 , 8 , 9. & 43. 24 , 25. There be many examples of great sinners received to mercy , as Manasseh , 2 Chron. 33. 18 , 19. Paul , and one who was a sinner with a witnes , Luk. 7. 37. 47. And many others , yea the rebellious also , Psal. 68. 18.

4. Incouragement to hope . 4. Incoura .

Because there is a fountaine set open for sin and for uncleannesse , Zach. 13. 1. And Christ is mightie to save , Isa. 62. 1. He will abundantly pardon , Isa. 55. 7. And his compassions faile not , Lam. 3. 22.

5. Incouragement to hope . 5. Incoura .

Because great sinners that are heavie laden with sinne , are called to come to Christ , Mat. 11. 28. If any man thirst , let him came to me and drinke , Joh. 7. 37. Every one that thirsteth , come ye to the waters , Isa. 55. 1. Rev. 22. 17.

6. Incouragement to hope . 6. In coura .

The Saints have made their greatnesse of sinne an incouragement to beleeve ; Lord , pardon my sinnes , for they are great , Psal. 25. 11. How great is his goodnesse ? much greater then thy sinnes , Zach. 9. 17. Isa . 43. The greater our sinnes are , the greater our faith should be . Loe here is great consolation .

7. Incouragement to hope . 7. Incoura .

Because God doth not sell Christ or grace , but he gives Christ , and all that is his freely ; Yee that have no silver , come buy and eate , come buy without money , Isa. 55. 1. And the Spirit , and the Bride say , Come , and let him that heareth say , come , and let him that is athirst , come , and let whosoever will take of the water of life freely , Rev. 22. 17. Jesus stood , crying , saying , If any man thirst , let him come to me and drinke , Joh. 7. 37.

8. Incouragement . 8. Incoura .

Because such as Jesus Christ saves , are unworthy , ungodly , and without works , Rom. 4. 5 , 6. The most perfect Saint that ever hath been , did stand in need of mercy , and was unworthy . Behold , he found no stedfastnesse in his servants , and chargeth his Angels of folly , how much more in them that dwell in houses of clay ? Job 4. 18 , 19. And all those whom God hath revealed his Sonne unto , they see an exceeding transcendent beautie in him ; and he is precious unto them , 1 Pet. 2. 7. They loth and abhor themselves , Job 42. 6. Because they see in themselves nothing else but vilenesse , filthinesse , and unworthinesse , Ezek. 16. 63. and it sets out the mercy of God the more , that it is freely given unto the unworthy , Ezek. 16.

9. Incoura . 9. Incouragement .

It makes most for the glory of God to give great things , and is it not a disparagement for a King to doe otherwise ? The Lord is a great King , a mightie God , Isa. 9. 6. He doth great things past finding out , and wonders without number , Job 9. 10. Feare not , the Lord will do great things , Joel 2. 21. For with God nothing shall be impossible , Luk. 1. 37. Measure not the Lord by thy selfe : For my thoughts are not your thoughts , neither are your wayes my wayes , saith the Lord ; for as the heavens are higher then the earth , so are my wayes higher then your wayes , and my thoughts then your thoughts , Isa. 55. 8 , 9. And those who are made wise by God , looke not so much to their basenesse as unto his greatnesse , Zach. 9. 17.

10. Incoura . 10. Incouragement .

That which moves God to shew mercy , is onely in himselfe , nothing in the creature , Ezek. 16. 3. to 9. Nor any thing the creature can doe , cannot move God to shew mercy ; I will doe away thy sinnes for my Names sake , Isa. 43. 25. God shews mercy , because he will , Micah 7. 18 , 19.

11. Incouragement . 11. Incoura .

The greater our sinnes are , and our sensiblenesse of unworthinesse , the more we shall love God when we know that our sinnes are pardoned , Luk. 7. 41 , 42 , 43 , 47.

12. Incouragement . 12. Incoura .

The mercy of God is infinite , it hath no part or forme , therefore it is not capable of any addition or defect : therefore infinite , shouldst thou need thousands of Seas of mercy to pardon thy sinnes . God hath not the lesse , notwithstanding he hath given so much . If I had all the sins upon me , that can be committed , or but one sinfull thought , this consideration makes it all one . Oh , I , worlds of sin in this Ocean vanish and come to nothing , Rom. 11. 33. Oh the depth of the unsearchable riches of Christ ! Ephes. 3. 8.

13. Incouragement . 13. Incoura .

The Name of God it 's infinite also : The Father of mercies , 2 Cor. 1. 3. Yea it 's the nature of God . The Lord is very pitifull , and of tender mercies , Jam. 5. 11. All mercy and pitie is from him , and all that is , or hath been , is but a drop to that Ocean of that pitie and mercy that is in him . We are ready to sin , but God is much more ready to forgive ; mercy pleaseth him , it 's his delight , Micah 7. 18. He is plenteous in mercy , Psal. 86. 5. Thou art a God ready to forgive .

14. Incouragement . 14. Incoura .

The price that is for the sinnes of such as beleeve , is infinite also ; count all thy sins , and still they are the acts of a finite creature ; and is not Christ satisfaction above them ? he is God , 1 Joh. 5. 20. His righteousnesse is farre greater then thy sinnes : therefore be they great or small , he is able to disanull them all .

15. Incouragement . 15. Incoura .

The Covenant of grace , is not made with us , nor can it be broken by us , but with Christ : If they break my statutes , and keep not my Commandements ; neverthelesse , my loving kindnesse will I not take from him , nor suffer my faithfulnesse to faile ; my Covenant will I not breake , nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips , Psal. 89. 31. 33 , 34. My Covenant shall stand fast with him , vers. 28. So then the Covenant is made with Christ , and that it was not made for our good workes , nor can we disanull it by our sinnes ; for it 's sure , perpetuall , and everlasting , Heb. 13. 20. It 's not founded upon a rotten and sandy foundation , as thy selfe and duties are . Oh wonder at Gods wisdome and love , that it is not made with us , nor is it in our keeping , loe it 's founded upon the word & promise of an eternall God , and what ever is in God is God , God is unchangeable , Micah 3. 6. therefore the Covenant stands sure for ever , Heb. 13. 20.

But the discouraged soule still replieth ;

I am perswaded I have committed the sin against the holy Spirit , 3. Ob. and that is unpardonable , Heb. 6. 4.

Those who have committed this sin , Answ. tread under foot the Sonne of God , and count the bloud of the Covenant an unholy thing , and doe hate God and Christ , Joh. 15. 24. In that thou art afraid thou hast committed this sin , it is certain thou hast not committed it , because such as have so sinned are past feare or feeling , being given up to a reprobate sense , Ephes. 4. 19.

I am afraid the day of grace is past to me , 4. Ob. and so nothing can doe me good .

You must not give way to such a thought ; Ans. 1. who knows but the Lord may returne ? Jonah 3. 19.

Is this the way thinkest thou to enjoy the assurance of his love , 2. to nourish jealousies against his love ? Surely this is not the way . Shouldst thou not rather say as David did , How precious are thy thoughts to me , O God ? great is the summe of them , if I should count them , they are more then the sands , Psal. 139. 17 , 18. The number of the sands are many , yet Gods thoughts of love exceeds them ; Be not afraid , onely beleeve , Mark . 5. 36. Christ received sinners , Luk. 15. 1 , 2.

If thou thinkest the day of grace is past , 3. because thy sinnes are great , &c. this will not prove it : minde what God saith ; I have spred out my hand all the day to a rebellious people , that provoke me to anger continually to my face , Isa. 65. 2 , 3.

If thou desirest to returne to God , 4. thy day of grace is not past , Rev. 2. 20.

If we confesse our sinnes , 5. he is faithfull and just to forgive us our sinnes , &c. 1 Joh. 4. 9.

I doe not beleeve I am elected , 5. Ob. &c. so nothing can doe me good .

This is a secret , Ans. 1 and you must not meddle with Gods secrets ; Secret things belong to God , and revealed things to us , Deut. 29. 29.

It 's one of Satans deceits to tell a soule that God hath no mercy for him , 2. when the soule hath obtained mercy , or when it is not farre from him .

It is certaine , 3. these thoughts come from Satan , because they are contrary to God in his word , as Gen. 3. 2 , 3 , 4.

It 's the nature of unbeliefe , 4. to be inquisitive and curious to find out any pretence , that it may seeme to doe well in not harkening to what God saith in his word , Heb. 10.

We must not hearken unto Satan , 5. nor yeeld to him , but resist him ; meddle not with election , fix thy eye upon Christ , as a sutable good for thee , who is able to save thee , and wait upon him in the use of his meanes , till he shall give thee faith , that by it thou mayst know thy selfe to be elected , Act. 13. 48.

But I have used the meanes , 6. Ob. and yet I am no better , but worser , therefore God will never doe me good .

Are you sure you have used all Gods meanes , Ans. 1. doest thou know the number of them ? and have your ends been all good & right placed , and have you used them in a right manner , measure , time , in sinceritie , humilitie , which I question ; and have you not rested in the use of means ? have you set God above his meanes , and expected his blessing upon them , without which they could doe no good ? If thou hast not used them all in faith , say not , thou hast used the meanes ; what are all meanes without faith ? they are as a shadow without the substance , Heb. 11. 1. The word they heard profited them not , for want of faith , Heb. 4. 2.

It is no good reason to say , 2. because God hath not answered me , and supplied me , therefore he never will consider , Isa. 64. 4. Isa. 8. 17. They which had not obtained mercy did , 1 Pet. 2. 10. They shall not be ashamed that wait for me , Isa. 49. 23.

There be many that doe satisfie themselves with the meanes , 3. and their frequenting them , and in what they doe : that it is just with God , yea a mercy to blast all , to shew their emptinesse , that we might look and long for Christ , to blesse the meanes , and be all in all unto us .

Men beleeve not that faith is the gift of God , 4. and the Spirits work , Phil. 1. 29. so that they goe not to God in his promise for faith , but endeavour to make a faith of their own to carry to God .

If thou hast a will that onely Christ should save thee , 5. God hath begun his work in thee , and he will finish it , Heb. 12. 2. and one day thou shalt know thy selfe to be pardoned , and all thy sins shall be subdued .

Consider God may have mercy for thee , 6. though thou knowest it not ; for mens sinnes are first forgiven , before they are to beleeve it , or can be assured of it ; for if men should beleeve , that their sins are forgiven before they be forgiven , they should beleeve that which is false ; neither can any mans beleeving make that to be , which had not a being before : faith declares to us our pardon ; but our beleeving neither pardons nor procures the pardon of any sin ; if it could , what need was there of the death of Christ ?

I have waited a long time , Obj. 7. and many have received mercy since , but not I.

Even the Lords servants have waited a long time for God , Ans. 1. or at least they thought the time long ; David said , I am weary of my crying , my throat is dryed , mine eyes faile , while I waite for my God , Psal. 69. 3.

If God have given thee a heart to wait upon him , 2. thou art blessed ; Blessed are all they that wait for him , Isa. 30. 18. Waiting implies perseverance , patience , long-suffering , in holding out , notwithstanding the tediousnesse of the time deferred , courage in breaking through all difficulties that stand between waiting , and to continue waiting , though all things seem contrary , till we enjoy what we waited for ; I wait for my God , Psal. 69. 3.

I am now old in yeares , Obj. 8. and if God had intended to have done my soule good , surely he would have done it before this time , and now death is ready to take me away .

Yea , Ans. 1. though it be thus with thee , yet mercy may be thy portion at last , if mercy come at last , it will be sweet , and it may come at last . The thiefe was saved upon the Crosse , Mat. 20. Luk. 23. Oh how neere was he unto his end before mercy came unto him !

You may not set a time to God , 2. in which he shall shew mercy , for he giveth what he will , and when he will , and will not be tyed to thy time ; it 's an exceeding great grace for God to shew mercy , though it be at the last , as he did to the thiefe upon the Crosse .

God hath all houres in the day to work , 3. the last houre God useth to call some , as well as the third ; see Mat. 20. 1. to 10. for there is nothing too hard for God .

If I were filled with qualifications , Obj. 9. as humblenesse , and brokennesse of heart , and tooke delight to heare and pray , as others , I could have hope , but now I cannot .

Alas , poore soule , thou art greatly deluded , Ans. 1. for these things can no way fit the soule for mercy . Why doest thou seek the living among the dead ? Luk. 24. 5. Why doest thou look at , and rest in , such things as these ? for haddest thou these in the greatest measure , they could not procure thy happinesse , nor stand thee in any stead ; oh nothing but Christ can doe thy soule any good , and truly comfort thee .

Consider , 2. what qualifications had they in Ezekiel 16. 3. to 9. of whom God was found ? Surely they had none , except sinfull ones . What , saith God ; I was found of them that sought me not , Isa. 65. 1 , 2 , 3. Tell me , what qualifications had they who were enemies ? yet Christ died for them , Rom. 5. 9 , 10. All that are saved are saved by grace , without any cause or condition in man , 2 Tim. 1. 9.

Under colour of devotion , 3. yee overthrow Christ ; can your duties , &c. procure Christ , or what use is there of Christ , if yee can have what yee need without him ? yee would have power , abilitie , and inlargements before yee dare believe in Christ ; Oh the greatnesse of thy pride and folly ! doth not Christ say true , that without me yee can doe nothing ? Joh. 15. 5.

As in nature none can worke before they have life ; 4. so none can doe any thing that is spirituall , before they live spiritually . Christ must be in thee before thou canst beleeve : the soule must beleeve before it can finde any sanctification , or workes at all in it selfe , yea without any regard to workes in any measure whatsoever , for there is nothing to be done by man to be a preparation to his sanctification ; see Rom. 4. 5. & 5. 8. 10.

Thou hungerest and thirstest after a righteousnesse of thine own , 5. and wouldst establish it , but it must be renounced . I confesse , this self-deniall is very hard ; oh , how hard is it for the soule to be taken off its own bottom of workes , and of self-concurrence ! strip them of all that is their own , and yee take away their lives ; they must and will have something , some humblenesse , and brokennesse of heart , some teares , some good workes , or abilities , or a good heart ; something they must have , for they think it cannot be , that they should be accepted , pardoned , and saved , and they to doe nothing at all themselves for it : therefore as soone as they begin to espie a flaw in what they doe , for who can say his heart is cleane ? Job 25. 4. they betake themselves to breake their hearts , to make God amends for all , and thinke if they can but attaine unto such a deep measure of humiliation and sorrow for sin , then they think they have an evidence for heaven : but alas , this is no evidence , save onely of great ignorance , in that they see not death in their best duties : the Lord may say to you who worke so hard for life , Thou hast found the life of thy hand , therefore thou wast not grieved , Isa. 57. 10. Thou comfortest thy selfe in thine own sparkes , but ( sorrow is all the comfort such comfort can produce ) yee shall lie downe in sorrow , Isa. 50. 11. When we say our good works are not the way to life , men esteeme it a grievous error , yet Christ saith , I am the way , Joh. 14. 6. Are thy works Christ or no ? if no , then they are not the way , for Christ saith true , and if Jesus Christ is to be unto us all in all , Col. 3. 11. Our best workes are to be unto us nothing at all , our workes make us not the better before God , nor to be more beloved of God , but declare us to be what wee are made by God : the Papists doe good works to be saved , but we abhorre it , because it is condemned by God , therefore all those who expect and hope for mercy , because they leave their sinnes , as they say , and do many good works ; consider what I say unto thee , Alas , poore soule , thou art still in the state of nature , in the gall of bitternesse , thou art not quite plucked up off of thine own stocke of self-workes , and self-concurrence with Christ , and therefore art not planted into Christ , thou art ignorant of the righteousness of God , which is the cause why thou goest about to establish thine own righteousnesse , and so long as thou doest so , thou canst not submit to the righteousnesse of God , Rom. 10. 13. But diddest thou know what a righteousnesse Christ is , thou couldst not but have preferred it before thine own righteousnesse , yea it would be esteemed by thee but drosse and dung to his , as Phil. 3. 8 , 9. And unlesse the Lord Jesus open thine eyes , and reveale his righteousnesse unto thee , thy righteousnesse ( which thou joynest with Christs for salvation ) will of a certaine worke thy destruction unto all eternity . Publicans and harlots are neerer salvation then thee , when you who worke for life are Pharisees , and if you dye in this estate , you must perish , Mat. 21. 31 , 32. Luk. 7. 29 , 30.

I know many will cavill , and say , if Christ must doe all , and man nothing , then men need not care what they doe , but live as they list .

Answ. As it is our dutie , so it is our desire to doe whatsoever the word of God requires , but we are not commanded to doe any thing to procure the pardon of our sinnes , but in reference to service and dutie , I count my selfe to be never the neerer Heaven for my best workes , then if I had done nothing else but blaspheme God . But what saith the Scriptures , Now to him that worketh , is the reward not reckoned of grace , but of debt , but to him that worketh not , but beleeveth on him that justifieth the ungodly , his faith is counted for righteousnesse , Rom. 4. 2 , 3 , 4 , 5. Wee are saved , not according to our workes , but according to his own purpose and grace , 2. Tim. 1. 9. When wee were enemies , wee were reconciled to God by the death of his Sonne , Rom. 5. 10. I will doe away thy offences for my Names sake , Isa. 43. 25. A new heart also will I give thee , Ezek. 36. 26 , 27. 31. I have seene his wayes , and will heale him , Isa. 57. 17. I have blotted out thy sinnes , returne unto me , &c. Isa. 44. 22. When thou wert polluted in thy own bloud , I said unto thee , Live . When thou wert in thy bloud , thy time was the time of love , and I covered thy nakednesse , &c. Ezek. 16. 6. 8. All unto whom the mystery of Gods love and free grace is revealed , they cry grace , grace , Christ , Christ ; Christ is all in all , nothing but Christ , their prayers , teares , duties , devotions , and all of theirs , is nothing to them in respect of acceptation , or justification , or salvation , they are now dead to working , they doe no workes in the world to attaine any of these , all theirs is vanished , and is quite drowned in the infinite Ocean of Gods free grace . It is so that God might have all the glory , Eph. 1. 6. Jer. 9. 24. and that man might not boast , Rom. 3. 9. but obey God freely , Luk. 1. 74.

But I have no worke of grace wrought in me . Obje . 10.

The Spirit shall convince the world of sin , Answ. and of righteousnesse , Joh. 16. 7 , 8 , 9 , 10. God hath begun his worke in thee , if he hath convinced thee of sinne , and of righteousnesse .

To be convinced of sin implies ;

Such a discovery of sinne which causeth the soule to see her selfe guiltie and utterly lost and undone , 1. by reason of sin , they confesse themselves are vile , and they abhorre themselves , Job 42. 6. They loath themselves for their deeds , Ezek. 20. 43. Este●ming themselves as beasts , Psal. 73. 22.

The soule is convinced , 2. so as to have no hope , Jer. 2. in any thing it can doe to helpe it selfe out of that miserable state of sin , he is undone in nature , he cannot doe any thing from whence he may expect salvation , or have any hope of it ; for a man cannot expect life and salvation from Christ alone , untill the soule be taken off of all other things in respect of life . This vision of God causeth the soule to see themselves , and say , There remaineth no strength in me , my comelinesse is turned in me into corruption , Dan. 10. 8. That is , my best workes , my righteousnesse is defiled , and is sinne ; now sinfull selfe , and righteous selfe are alike ( if there be any difference , the last is the worst , now the creature hath nothing to procure Christ , nor no strength to beleeve in him ) the holy Spirit discovers to the soule , that there is nothing but darknesse and death in our best duties .

He is so convinced of sinne , 3. that he justifieth the justice of God , if he perish in his sin , as Psal. 51. 4. Gen. 44. 16. See Leviticus 26. 41 , 42. Micah 7. 9. 2. Sam. 15. 26. Lam. 3. 28 , 29. It is from grace to be taken so off of nature , and he that is so taken off of nature , hath grace , is begotten and borne of God . For when the soule is taken off his own bottom , it must have another to rest upon , or else it sinkes , therefore when God takes away the soules false soundation , which was her false hope , God gives the soule a better in himselfe .

The teaching and drawing of the Father , Joh. 6. is this , that all men have sinned , and are in an estate of death , and that in Christ there is a ransome , in which is life and all happinesse , and that this Jesus and all that he hath done is for him . When the soule hath heard and learned this , there is a power goeth with this teaching , which carrieth the soule by faith to Christ beleeving in him ; for the teaching of the Father and faith goeth together ; every one that hath heard and learnt of the Father commeth unto me , Joh. 6. So that to convince the soule of righteousnesse , is to be convinced of Christ , to reveale Jesus Christ to the soule , that in him onely is helpe , and in his righteousnesse is deliverance ; I have laid help upon one that is mightie , Psal. 89. 19. Isa. 63. 1. So fix and settle the eye of the soule upon Christs righteousnesse onely , at least putting the soule under the hope of it ; for as soone as God hath stripped the soule of all hope in and from it selfe , he turnes the soule to Christ , and puts it under hope , Ezek. 16. 5 , 6. when the soule seeth nothing but death , God saith , Live , Ezek. 16. 6. and when the soule is a going downe into the pit , God saith , stay , hearken , I have found a ransome for thee , Job 34. 23 , 24. Christ calls , Come to me , and be saved , and the power of God goeth along with this call , workes faith , carrieth the soule to Christ as his own , having possession of him . When this is manifested to the soul , faith acts in the love of God in pardoning his sinne , greatly wondering at the greatnesse of his goodnesse , or astonished with the glory of his present condition , the heart being taken up , as Luk. 1. 41. 43. though for the measure of it , it is not in all alike . For the first , to be convinced of sinne then is more then a bare notion that it hath sinned , for this may be in one that rests in themselves , and in something else besides Christ , and perish in this condition ; for by the letter of the Law , and the light of reason , men may see and say they have sinned ; as Saul and Judas did : but those the Spirit convinces of sinne , they are convinced to purpose , because it is thorowly ; The Spirit shall convince the world of sin , Joh. 16. 8. The Spirit discovers to the soule that she hath chosen something else besides Christ , upon which the soule resteth , and satisfieth her selfe withall , and expects mercy and comfort from by reason of them , and that they are her best services , and other lying vanities , as groundles hopes , peace , joy , comfort &c. telling the soule that there is nothing but death and darknesse in them , and that if the soule rest in any of them , there is nothing but death and destruction for them ; and there is a secret power of God which goeth along with this teaching , which turneth the soule from darknesse , viz. selfe , Satan , and all lying vanities , to light , to Christ , where life is , the Spirit reveales to the soule a sufficiency of life in Christ , and it needs seek life in nothing else ; also the Spirit of God perswades a soule that this life is for him , therefore he is to look to Christ for it , and wait upon him for pardon and life , and that the soule shall not lose her waiting , and so be deceived , but shall certainly have it at last , Isa. 57. 13. These things must be wrought in truth , and in a measure in every soule that hath grace , though for the measure of this , it is not in all alike ; for in some it is in a small measure , as it was in those who are named to be carnall , and not spirituall , yet then they were babes in Christ , therefore their state was happy , & safe , 1 Cor. 3. 1. 3. But when this is wrought in any measure , in the same time faith is wrought , and as the measure of this worke is wrought in the soule , more or lesse , in the same measure faith is wrought in the soule , and as it appeares to the soule , so accordingly faith appeares to the soule : and when the soule seeth it selfe to be lost by reason of sin , and seeth all to be in Christ for life , and is taken off from resting upon any thing else besides Christ , and to expect all from Christ , resting upon Christ , though this be but in the smallest measure wrought in the soule , now this instant time faith is wrought , Jesus Christ is formed in the soule , and the soule is converted ; for this teaching of the Father and faith are inseparable , Joh. 6. 45. 47.

I cannot beleeve . 11 Ob.

It is not in the power of the creature Answ. to beleeve in Christ , Phil. 1. 29. therefore look not upon faith as a worke of thine own , nor is faith any condition of the Covenant required on thy part ; for as the Covenant of grace is not made with man , but with Christ , as appeares , Psal. 89. 27 , 28 , 29 , 30. nor is there any condition in the Covenant of grace required on mans part , neither is there any thing to be done by man to cause him to have an interest in the Covenant of grace , or to partake of it , for the Covenant of grace and life by Christ is every way free and unconditionall on mans part , else how doth it differ from a Covenant of works , if there were any thing to be done by us to have interest in it ? and if faith were a condition required on our part to partake of the Covenant , or else not , I see not but we are now in as bad a condition as to be under the Covenant of works , it being as hard and impossible for man of himselfe to beleeve in Christ , as it is to keep the whole Law , as the Scripture declares . How hard it is to beleeve , the experience of many can testifie , to beleeve is a fruit of the Spirit , Gal. 5. 22. We must be in Christ , before wee can beare fruit , Joh. 15. 4. therefore we must be in Christ , before wee can beleeve ; he that hath the Spirit of Christ hath Christ , wee have the Spirit of Christ before wee beleeve , therefore we have Christ before we beleeve , Rom. 8. 9 , 10 , 11. Men are ordained unto eternall life before they beleeve , Acts 13. 48. Faith is a grace of the Covenant on Gods part to be given to those who are given to Christ ; faith is given to some , that by it they may know their interest in Christ , and by it live upon him : faith is no condition of the Covenant , therefore they mistake who conceive faith to be a condition of the Covenant , either required on mans part to partake of the Covenant of grace , or given to men , and then required of them as a condition ; although the Scripture expresseth , that he that beleeves shall be saved , yet is not faith any condition of salvation ; but such expressions are to be considered as a declaration to us what persons shall be saved , viz. such as beleeve : it is an information to such as know not who shall be saved , and if any desire to know who shall be saved ; the answer is , he that beleeves shall be saved , Joh. 3. 16. If faith did give us interest in Christ , when faith did not appeare to act , it would appeare to us , that we had no interest in Christ , and that wee were not justified by him .

I know not whether I am bidden to beleeve or no , 12. Ob. for some shall not be saved , and if I be one of them , if I should beleeve I should be saved by Christ , I should beleeve a lye ▪

The Gospel declares that whosoever beleeves in Christ shall be saved , Answ. Joh. 3. 16. therefore those who beleeve , cannot be any of them that shall perish ; and the Word saith , be that beleeveth not , is condemned already , Joh. 3. 18. and shall not see life . What God saith is truth , and truth ought to be beleeved , and whatsoever is contrary to truth , no man is bound to beleeve , therefore no unregenerate man is commanded to beleeve the forgivenesse of his sinnes in any other way then Gods word holds forth forgivenesse of sinnes , which is , he that beleeves shall be saved , and have everlasting life . Men are commanded to beleeve they shall have benefit by Christ , life and salvation by Christ , if they beleeve , Joh. 3. 16. And no man is commanded to beleeve he shall be saved by Christ , whether he beleeves or no ; for this is contrary to the Word which saith , He that beleeves not , is condemned already , Joh. 3. 18. No man is to beleeve that which is not true , yet this hinders not , but all that see an absolute necessitie of Christ , shall enjoy him , & they ought not to distrust in him , but to cast away all their doubts and feares , and beleeve in him , and rest upon him for ever , as Simon Peter said to Christ , Master to whom shall we goe ? thou hast the words of eternall life , Joh. 6. 67 , 68.

But I have no love to Christ , 13. Ob. I am an enemie to Christ , I am not fit for Christ .

The reason thou doest not love Christ , Ans. 1. is because thou seest not thy sinnes to be pardoned by Christ , didst thou know he loves thee , thou wouldst love him , the love of Christ would constraine thee to love him , 2 Cor. 5. 14. We love him , because he first loved us , 1 Joh. 4. 19.

Doest thou apprehend thy selfe to be an enemy to God ? 2. so were all those once that ever did beleeve , Ephes. 2. 12 , 13. While we were enemies , wee were reconciled to God by the death of his Sonne , Rom. 5. 8. 10. Enemies cannot discerne Christ , yet God gives Christ to such .

Thou canst not fit thy selfe for Christ , 3. & if thou seest such a necessity of Christ , as without him thou art undone ; thou desirest Christ , and goest to Christ ; He that commeth to me , I will in no wise cast out , Joh. 6. 37. hearken what Christ saith , you shall speed , you have the promise of Christ , which is security sufficient to satisfie thy soule ; for Christ is in you , and no man can hunger and thirst after righteousnesse , viz. Christ , but such as are blessed , Mat. 5. 6. and the Spirit of God dwels in you , and Christ is in you , and they that are led by the Spirit of God out of themselves to Christ , for light , and life , and strength , are the children of God , Rom. 8. 9 , 10 , 11 , 14.

Indeed , 14. Ob. there are many sweet promises in the Word , but they are all for beleevers , but I am none .

I grant none may apply a promise of life , Answ. but onely such as beleeve , yet the promises are for all the elect , thou knowest not but thou art one of them , & when God shall please to give thee faith , thou shalt know thy interest in them , Act. 13. 48. In the meane time , stay thy selfe with this , that the Lord Jesus gave himselfe for enemies , and justifieth the ungodly , Rom. 4. 5. Whilest wee were yet sinners , Christ dyed for us : While we were enemies , we were reconciled to God by the death of his Sonne , Rom. 5. 8. 10. Therefore be not discouraged , God may save thee also . The Lord saith , I will have mercy upon her that hath not obtained mercy , and I will say to them which were not my people , Thou art my people , and they shall say , Thou art my God , Hos. 2. 23. Oh sweet place ! therefore by no meanes yeeld not to thy feares , nourish no jealousies against God , but resolve in Christs strength to cleave to his Word , as Psal. 119. 49. And here hold , saying , My beloved is mine , and I am his , Song 2. 16.

I would gladly beleeve , 15. Ob. but I dare not .

Thou shouldst not admit nor give way to any discouragement to hinder thy going to Christ , Ans. 1. seeing Christ cryed , saying , If any man thirst , let him come to mee and drinke , Joh. 7. 37. The Spirit and the Bride say , Come , and whosoever will , let him come , Rev. 22. 17. The Lord takes pleasure in them that feare him , and in them that hope in his mercy , Psal. 147. 11. He will not quench the smoaking flax , Mat. 12. 20.

From whence is thy feare , 2. sure it is occasioned or much increased by them who bid persons beleeve , & forbid them againe by their saying , Take heed what you doe , you may be deceived ? it is not so easie a matter to beleeve , you must first be so sensible of sin , and so humbled for it , &c. before you may beleeve . Now they conceit , they are not so and so qualified , therefore they dare not beleeve : also they are scared with the many things hypocrites may doe , how farre they may goe , and so set them short of hypocrites ; which must needs discourage them , yet the word of God requires no such teaching , for men to learne before they may beleeve ; for when the soule seeth it selfe lost by reason of sinne , and is at a stand , not knowing what to doe , the first thing they are to doe , is to beleeve in Jesus Christ , as appeares , Acts 16. 31. The word requires nothing of them before they may beleeve , therefore wee may not , for none may presume above what is written .

If thou desirest to beleeve , 3. thy will is in part regenerated , and thou doest in some measure beleeve , though weakly , as he did that said , Lord , I beleeve , help my unbeliefe , Mark . 9. 24. Gods servants are described by a desire to feare his Name , Nehe. 1. 11. Psal. 145. 19. Psal. 147. 11. There can be no desires without faith , 1 Pet. 2. 2 , 3. a man cannot desire that which he beleeves not to be ; so Heb. 11. 6. Many give God their hearts , and doe not know it , and so are troubled , because they do not know what is meant by the heart , nor where it is seated . I speak not of the heart of flesh , Rom. 8. 5 , 6 , 7. there is a carnall minde and a spirituall minde in men , I speake of the heart mystically and spiritually , which is principally seated in the will , so that what it wills or desires , there is the heart , and to that which the will most wills or desires , to that is the bent of the heart unto . Now if the soule were to have its choice of every thing , that one thing that the soule should chuse , would any question whether they loved it , and that their hearts were not unto it ? for as no soule can be sensible of the want of Christ , untill the soule be possessed of him , Rom. 8. 10 , 11. so no soule can desire Christ above all things in the world , if they might have their choice , unlesse Christ have their hearts , and they dearly love him , and beleeve in him ; for Christ is precious to them that beleeve , 1 Pet. 2. 7. and to none else . So the seat of faith is in the heart , which is in the understanding , and will , but more principally in the will , so that if our wills be renewed , our hearts are renewed , Rom. 8. 5 , 6. Paul saith , To will is present with me ; good I would doe ; so then with my minde I serve the Law of God , Rom. 7. 18 , 19. with 21. 25. it appeares that the will is one with the minde , and the heart is one with them , these three are one , and alwayes goe together , and are alike spirituall . Christ saith , Where your treasure is , there will your heart be also , Mat. 6. 21. that is , the mind and affections : and by affections in Eph. 3. 2. is meant the heart , for the heart and affections are one thing . There be them that beleeve , and yet they know not whether they beleeve or no : so that it is possible for them to call their faith unbeliefe , as the blind man did , Mark . 9. 24. Lord help my unbeliefe ; which must not be understood of unbeliefe , for it is not a lawfull request to pray that sin may be increased , for unbeliefe is a sin , and the ground or cause of the soules departing from God , as Heb. 3. 12. Many mistake faith , some have thought , comfort , joy , or ravishments of soule with God , to be faith , and so have concluded , because they had not them , they had no faith . It is not mens beleeving , but the object of faith , that gives faith its denomination , or name , for there be divers kinds of faith ; there is a naturall faith , as Luk. 8. 13. and a divine faith , or the faith of Gods Elect , Titus 1. 1. Faith and its object is not to be separated , because faith and its object is one and the same , it is too strict therefore to give a distinction or definition of faith without its object .

He that beleeveth that Jesus Christ is the Sonne of God shall be saved . All is included in this , he that beleeves this , must

1. Know Christ to be the anointed , Luk. 23. the Saviour of his people from their sinnes , Mat. 1. 21.

2. To beleeve in Christ , to rest upon him , to live or stay upon the Lord , Pro. 3. 5. To beleeve in him , Rom. 10. 9. 11. Psal. 17. 6. To cleave to God , Deut. 30. 20. Joh. 23. 6. Acts 11. 23. Psal. 119. 30 , 31. to hope in him , Psal. 147. 11.

3. To own and confesse Christ ; Simon said , Thou art the Christ , the Sonne of the living God , Mat. 16. 16. Rom. 10. 9.

Any man may say , Obje . that Jesus Christ is the Sonne of God , yea the Devils confesse this ; I know thee who thou art , Jesus Christ the Sonne of God , therefore this cannot be the faith of Gods Elect , and so not the faith of the Gospel .

1. There are three things to be considered in the nature of faith ; first , illumination ; secondly , for the soule to trust in Christ for pardon and life ; and the third is the application of him .

The first , is when a man consents to the Word , that it is true , and this is called faith , and this the Devill doth ; Thou beleevest there is one God , thou doest well , the Devill doth so , James 2. Mark . 5. 8. Acts 16. 17.

The second , is to beleeve that Jesus is the Christ ; which implies a seeing and knowing all to be in Christ for life and salvation , and so to rest upon him for it ; he that thus beleeves in Christ , is brought by Christ over to Christ , and so centred upon him , that he will never goe from him , Joh. 6. 58. My soule wait thou on God , for my expectation is from him , Psal. 62. 5. and this no Devill never did .

The third , is to beleeve with an application of Christ as their own in particular , therefore to beleeve in Christ , is more then an illumination , or a saying so , or reformation ; for where faith comes , old things are done away , and they are new creatures , there is a light set up in that soule , now they know all is by Christ , and that there is no way or meanes of life , but by Christ , and close with Christ , and rest upon him .

Secondly , the Scriptures cleerly prove that to beleeve that Jesus Christ is the Sonne of God , is the faith of the Gospel , for the Word of God is the ground of faith , and the soules salvation depends upon the truth of what God saith , and faith looks onely to what God saith , and rests upon it ▪ and sets to its seale that God is true . And that so to beleeve that Jesus Christ is the Sonne of God , is the faith of the Gospel , I prove by these Reasons .

1. Because this is the faith which the Apostles preached and witnessed unto , and the faith which is recorded unto us in the Scriptures , Acts 18. 28. 1 Joh. 2. 22.

2. Because none can say ( knowingly ) that Jesus is the Lord , but by the Spirit , 1 Cor. 12. 3.

3. Because upon the profession of this faith , Christ builds his Church , Mat. 16. 16. 18.

4. Upon the profession of this faith the Baptisme of Christ is dispensed , as Act. 8. 37.

5. They who have this faith dwell in God , and God in them , 1 Joh. 4. 15.

6. This faith flesh and bloud cannot reveale , but God reveales it to the soule , Mat. 16. 16 , 17.

7. Such are borne of God ; whosoever beleeves that Jesus is the Christ , is borne of God , 1 Joh. 5. 1.

8. This is the faith that overcommeth the world , 1 Joh. 5. 4 , 5.

9. Because such as have this faith are pronounced blessed , Mat. 16. 17. and shall never dye , Joh. 11. 25 , 26.

10. Because he that hath this faith shall be saved ; If thou shalt confesse with thy mouth the Lord Jesus , and shalt beleeve in thy heart , that God hath raised him from the dead , thou shalt be saved , Rom. 10. 9. Jesus said , I am the resurrection , and the life , & whosoever beleeveth in me , shall never dye ; beleevest thou this ? shee said unto him , yea Lord , I beleeve that thou art the Christ the Sonne of God , &c. Joh. 11. 25 , 26 , 27. To beleeve this Record , implies an assent that it is truth , with a resting or hoping to have interest in it , to be made one with it , is faith , though it be a lesser degree , ( then a full and certain assurance of life by him for himselfe in particular ) see Isa. 45. 21 , 22. Those in Mat. 5. 3 , 4 , 5. who mourne , and hunger , and thirst after Christ are blessed , and shall be satisfied , though they want the application of Christ ; therefore besides the illumination which wicked men and Devils may have as well as a beleever , there is a two-fold act of faith , the first is a direct act to beleeve Christ is , in whom is life , &c. this is to beleeve the Record God hath given concerning his Sonne , and that he came into the world to save sinners , 1 Tim. 1. 15. 2. Chron. 20. 12. Look unto me and be saved , Isai . 45. 22. and so trust in Christ for life from a hope of mercy , but this hope is without a certainty ; these are blessed , as appeares Mat. 16. 17. Turne ye to the strong hold ye prisoners of hope , Zach. 9. 12. Secondly , the reflect act of faith , which is ( to beleeve Christ came to save them from their sinnes , as Mat. 1. 23. ) to know I beleeve ; he that hath this measure or degree of faith , trusts in Christ from a knowledge of an interest in him , we beleeve and are sure , Joh. 6. 69. He that hath this act of faith , hath the former , but there be some which have the first act of faith , but have not attained the second , yet their hearts are turned unto Christ , and fixed upon him , and they long for him , hope in him , and rest upon him alone for life and salvation , these have faith , which causeth them to depend on Christ , which none can doe but such as are possessed with Christ , though at present they may not know it , yet are they blessed , Mat. 5. 6. and in his Name they doe trust , Mat. 12. 21. The Apostle saith , These things have I written unto you that beleeve on the Name of the Sonne of God , that yee may know that yee have eternall life , and that yee may beleeve on the Name of the Sonne of God , 1 Joh. 5. 13. So that these words declare they did but weakly beleeve , and that they did not know that they were possessed with eternall life , ( yet they were ) therefore they had not that particular knowledge , or assurance of the love of God , yet did beleeve in Christ .

Some conceive they have no grace , 1. Discoura . because they never had so deep a measure of sorrow for sin as some others have , &c.

The word of God declares that those that beleeved had not one and the same measure of sorrow ; Ans. 1. the Scripture declares no sorrow in Lydia receiving the Word , Act. 16. 14. but it is said that the Jaylor trembled , being in feare , Act. 16. 29. The word of God is to be our Rule , Isa. 8. 20. and not mens conceits .

The greatest measure of sorrow , griefe , 2. feare , terror for sinne , that ever any had , made them not to be loved of God , nor to obtain mercy from God ; nor did sensiblenesse of sin ever drive the soule to Christ , but ever from Christ : as Peters sensiblenesse of his sin , caused him to bid Christ to depart from him , Lord depart from me , for I am a sinfull man , Luk. 5. 8. therefore a deep sensiblenesse of sin hinders the soule in beleeving of Christ , and drives it further from Christ .

Thou hast no cause to complain , 3. if God deales more gently with thee , then he doth with some others ; it's a great mistake to thinke that God delights in slavish feares or teares .

What is the greatest sensiblenesse of sin worth that proceeds not from faith , 4. and floweth not from the apprehension of pardon & love , in so evill requiting God , look not to sensiblenesse of sinne , but to Christ , thy very sensiblenesse of sin is not free from sin , and it deserves nothing but death , but in Christ is life .

If thou wert ever fatherlesse , 5. which is for the soule to be stripped of all , that none of thy workes , nor means , nor men , nor Angels , nor nothing besides Jesus Christ can stand thee in any stead , nor satisfie thee , being resolved to wait upon Christ , untill he please to manifest his free love in pardoning thy sinnes ; this is the worke of God in thee , yea this is a great and sweet work of the Gospel , and such a work as never was in any , but such as shall be saved . If thou renouncest all thy own sufficiency , so as thy best duties cannot satisfie thee , certain it is there is a better sufficiency come in place .

I feare my faith is not the faith of Gods Elect , 2. Discoura . because it is attended with so many doubtings .

Feares and doubtings are no fruits of faith , Answ. but of unbeliefe , and as feares and doubts increase , the stronger is unbeliefe in the soule ; so the soule is ready to judge that where so great unbeliefe is , there is no faith : yet the Scriptures declare that in those who had true faith , the faith of Gods Elect , yet at the same time have had much unbeliefe also in them , so as they have been filled with doubts and feares , Joh. 13. 1. And from hence it was that he in Mark . 9. 24. called his faith unbeliefe , because he was sensible of his great unbeliefe : and was not unbeliefe strong in Thomas , when he said , he would not beleeve ? Joh. 20. 24 , 25. And seeing that a child of God may have true faith , notwithstanding they may also have many feares and doubtings , thou knowest not but the cause may be so with thee , therefore take heed that yee deny not your selves to have faith , lest yee call weak faith , no faith , and light , darknesse , and grace , sin ; for to doe so is very evill ; Woe unto them that call evill good , and good evill , that put darknesse for light , and light for darknesse , that put bitter for sweet , and sweet for bitter , Isa. 5. 20. those that put faith for unbeliefe doe so ; pray to God to strengthen thy faith , as he did , Mark . 9. 24. and use meanes to remove such things as strengthen unbeliefe , and hinder the sight of thy faith ; as ignorance is one cause of doubting , also an over-sensiblenesse of infirmities , sleighting Gods meanes , neglect of duty , or a formall performance , or nourishing sinne more or lesse , pronenesse to sin , harkening to Satan , to sense , to carnall reasonings , nourishing feare and unbeliefe , &c. Also endeavour to doe that which is a means to strengthen thy faith , know the perfection of the state of a beleever in Christ , in which the weakest and most imperfect beleever , is as perfect , as much justified , accepted , and as happy as the best , live upon Christ alone , make choice of and mind the sutablest promises for thee to feed and strengthen thy faith , walk with God , pray in faith , aske his Spirit , and thou shalt have it , Luk. 11. 23. this Spirit will revive , and fill thy soule with joy and peace in beleeving , and make thee so wise and strong ( in his time ) that thou shalt not cast away thy confidence any more , Heb. 10. 34. And as Gods love ( which is perfect , full , free , ) is discovered to thy soule in the same measure thy doubts and feares are cast out ; for perfect love casts out feare . And although you are to use meanes , yet meanes are but means , not causes of increase of grace , it 's the operation of the Spirit of God in the soule , which is as God pleaseth , therefore looke up to God for faith .

I feare my faith is but presumption . 3. Discoura .

I feare the ground of this is thy not knowing , Answ. or not minding what faith is , and what presumption is . What faith is , see objection 15. and concerning presumption , this word may be understood in a twofold consideration ; first , for such a confidence as is without a ground ; or secondly , against a ground .

For the first , he that presumes he hath a confidence of pardon , but it is without any ground , he hath no word of God for his confidence , and it may be he can give no reason at all for his confidence , much lesse a good reason : that this discouragement may be answered , and removed , consider wherein faith and presumption differs . He that presumes , he hath no ground , no word of God for his confidence , here confidence is fetched from their own conceits , they seek no life in Christ , his word , and promise .

1. But he that truly beleeves in Christ , his confidence is from the Word ; Wee through the Scriptures have hope , Rom. 15. 4. In his word doe I hope , Psal. 130. 5. But I hope in thy word , Psal. 119. 81.

2. He that truly beleeves in Christ , doth not receive any promise of life , but in and through Christ in the riches of his grace . But he that presumes if he receives a promise he receives it upon his qualifications , without respect to Christ , and he gathers conclusions of life from what they are and can doe , their own righteousnesse was never to them as drosse and dung , as Phil. 3. 8. So they depend upon their faith , and not upon Christ by faith : the ground of their confidence is , because they are so good , or not so bad as others , as the proud Pharisee , but he was never fatherlesse , Hos. 14. 3. nor did they ever receive the sentence of death in themselves , 2 Cor. 1. 9. So they were ever confident , and it was ever very easie for them to beleeve .

3. He that beleeves , his hope and trust is onely in God , and they hope in his mercy ; The eyes of the Lord are upon them that hope in his mercy , Psal. 33. 18. 21. 22. And this is the work of God to perswade the heart to rest upon the free mercy of God in Christ , Psal. 13. 5. Psal. 33. 18. I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever , Psal. 52. 8. With the Lord there is mercy , Psal. 130. 7. God is rich in mercy , Eph. 2. 4. Presumption cannot doe so , Joh. 12. 37. 1 Pet. 19. 20. Joh. 6. 28 , 29.

For the second , so the confidence of the presumer is contrary to the word of God , the word approves of no such confidence , but protests against them and their confidence , as appeares , Jer. 7. 9. 15. So their presumption hardens them , and makes them bold to venture upon sinful practises , as lying , stealing , drunkennesse , uncleannesse , cheating , and the like , as theirs was , Jer. 7. 9. &c.

4. He that truly beleeves , abhorres that which is evill , and cleaves to that which is good , Rom. 12. 9. Every man that hath this hope in him , purifieth himselfe as he is pure , 1 ●oh . 3. 3. Purifying their hearts by faith , Acts 15. 9. The grace of God teacheth us to deny ungodlinesse and worldly lusts , and to live soberly , righteously , and godly in this present world , Tit. 2. 11 , 12. Christ is precious to them that beleeve , 1 Pet. 2. 7. They count all things but losse for Christ , and for him they will suffer the losse of all things , as Phil. 3. 8. Yet many there be who say they are confident , &c. and yet they dare not speak for Jesus Christ , his truth , his servants , &c. these are far from suffering the losse of all things for him : So others can hold Arminianisme , and free-will , setting themselves and their endeavours above God , and his grace , in affirming that notwithstanding all the grace God affords to any man , yet unlesse man shall please to will and improve it well , ( for as they say he may choose whether he will or no ) it shall never be effectuall to him ; if it be so , they may thank God for his grace , without which they can doe nothing , but much more themselves , for saving themselves ; for others had as much grace as they ( as they say Judas had ) shall be damned , and they had been damned also , if they had not willed well , &c. and it was in their power and choice , whether they would will well or no : which is so contrary to the Scriptures ; so then it is not of him that willeth , nor of him that runneth , but of God that sheweth mercy , Rom. 9. 16. Not that we are sufficient of our selves to thinke any thing of our selves , but our sufficiency is of God , 2 Cor. 3. 5. Surely all those who have tasted of Gods free grace , cannot but admire it , and be thankfull for it , and loath with the greatest indignation whatsoever shall intrench upon it , although it were but in the least degree .

I have no grace , 4. Discoura . because I grow not in grace , my life is not holy , nor am I like unto others who are the Lords .

Doest thou know thy age or degree in grace ? Answ. what , art thou a child , or a yong man , or a father ? 1 Joh. 2. 12 , 13. there is a great difference between a childe and a man in nature , so great is the difference between a babe in Christ , 1 Cor. 3. 1. and a man in Christ , 1 Joh. 2. 13. Also consider if thou canst , whether if thou beest a babe in the wombe , or borne , Heb. 5. 13. He is a babe , as a childe is begotten and alive while it is in the wombe , before it be borne ; so thou maist be begotten from above , and alive , before thou canst be borne . Christ must first be formed in us , before we can be new borne babes , Gal. 4. 18. 1 Pet. 2. 2. And when thou art delivered out of the state of bondage , which is a place of darknesse , of feares concerning thy soule , thou art not borne and brought forth ; and as the wombe is a place of bondage , so here ; and therefore canst not doe that service others doe : if thou beest but new borne , there cannot that be expected from thee , as there is from a man in Christ ; as there is a difference between a childe and a man in nature , so there is here ; learne to distinguish between the grace it selfe , and the exercise of it ; it 's not the having of grace , but the exercise of it , which attaines to a holy conversation , by the operation of the Spirit ; and when a soule is delivered from its enemies , as Satan , terrors , wrath , curse , it 's borne , being delivered we serve , Luk. 1. 47. Deliverance is before working : the time of doubting is a barren time , men cannot fight and worke at the same time . Regeneration consists in being begotten to the Lord , to have union with him , Joh. 17. 22. 23. 19. And for God to convey his power into the soule , by which it is made conformable to the will of Christ , and lives by faith in the Sonne of God , Gal. 2. 20. is another thing in some of the Lords : the first is , where the latter is not , at least in the degrees of it ; beleevers are of severall growths and states ; as , first , babes , children ; secondly , young men ; thirdly , fathers , 1 Joh. 2. 12 , 13. Can babes work ? and yet if they die in that estate , they shall not misse of glory . 1 Job . 2. 12. It is one thing to be justified , and another to be sanctified , so it is one thing to live , another to be borne , and to worke is distinct from both : there is as much difference between some of the Lords , as there is betwixt willing and doing ; some are termed carnall , 1 Cor. 3. 1. others spirituall . Thou maist be begotten , but not borne , ( if in bondage ) and then it is not the season of growing , as another season is . If thou beest ignorant , or in temptation , thy understanding is clouded , and thy heart being distempered with feare , so as Job 23. 8 , 9. and thou art not fit to judge of thy growth ; is a new borne babe , 1 Pet. 2. 2. fit to judge of its growth ? Also consider , it may be , thou art in Gods way , and so thou doest not use his meanes , or not rightly ; consider Psal. 1. 3. with Song 4. 12. there thou shalt grow .

I am much tempted by Satan , 5. Discoura . that I have no grace .

Satan tempts Christs babes to cast away their confidence , Ans. 1. which is forbidden , Heb. 10. 35. therefore if Satan tell yee , that yee have no faith , thou maist reply , if I have it not in the act to my knowledge , I may have it in the grace it selfe ; if he say that he knows , and you know you have no grace at all . Reply , the Devill knows not , and if I should thinke so I may be deceived ; as fire raked up in ashes appeares not , and gives neither light nor heat , so corruption doth hide and obscure grace , 1 Cor. 3. 1.

And if I have no grace , why let yee me not alone , 2. as yee doe others , and as yee did me when I tooke my fill of sin ? then ye told me I had faith , when I had none , I have found yee a lyer , therefore I will not hearken unto you , and I am the more confident I have grace , because ye tell me I have none , He is a lyer , and the father of it , Joh. 8. 44.

But suppose I have no grace , 3. there is no reason why I should despaire , because every one of the Lords were once without grace in the estate of nature ; At that time yee were without Christ , being aliens from the common-wealth of Israel , strangers , &c. having no hope , and withou● God in the world , but now in Christ Jesus yee who sometimes were afar off , are made nigh by the bloud of Christ , Eph. 2. 12 , 13. which in time past were not a people , but are now the people of God , which had not obtained mercy , but now have obtained mercy , 1 Pet. 2. 10. Many are ordained unto eternall life , which did not actually beleeve , nor had any grace at all ; I nor any doe not know , but I may be one of them also , therefore I know no reason to despaire , nor will despaire doe me any good , it is better to use the means , wait upon God , trust him with my soule , if mercy come I shall be happy , and shall have cause to praise him .

There is nothing too hard for God , 4. Lord , if thou wilt thou canst make me cleane , Jer. 32. 17. Mat. 8. 2.

I cannot pray , 6. Discoura . nor doe any thing to purpose , therefore I have no grace .

Unbeliefe deads the heart , Ans. 1. and hinders thy living upon Christs strength .

It is so with thee , 2. that thou mightst see a need of Christ , Joh. 15. 5. and live upon him , who hath promised to be a full supply to his .

If God hath given thee a desire to obey him , 3. say not it is nothing , because God saith it's something , 2 Cor. 8. to 11. he gives this , and if this be all thou hast , it is accepted , vers. 12. and he will grant thy desire ; He will fulfill the desire of them that feare him , he also will heare their cry , and will save them , Psal. 119. 19. Christ will not quench the smoaking fl●x , Isai . 42. When we see no fire , we know there is fire by the smoake ; holy desires cannot be in a soule that hath no grace , Psal. 145. 19. Desire after grace is an act of spirituall life ; an act is from a faculty , a faculty is from life and being , a dead man cannot desire , none can desire that which they beleeve not to be , nor that they doe not love ; desires if spirituall they flow from faith & love , and are a part of what it desires . A will to obey , may be all that a beleever can find in himselfe at some time ; To will is present with me , but how to performe that which is good I find not ; for the good I would I doe not , but the evill I would not , that I doe , Rom. 7. 18 , 19 , 20 , 21. Presse after obedience to God , yet know our greatest holinesse cannot justifie us before God ; For by grace are yee saved through faith , and that not of your selves , &c. Not of workes , lest any man should boast , Ephes. 2. 8 , 9. Even the strongest of the Lords , are but weake creatures , and the highest perfection they can attaine unto in this life , is a fight of our imperfections , and a desire and endeavour to obey , and to live upon Christ by faith ; see Phil. 2. 12 , 13. And was not Paul one of the most strongest beleevers ? see Rom. 8. 37 , 38 , 39. yet what saith he of himselfe , and his words are the word of God ; That which I doe I allow not , for what I would , that I doe not , but what I ha●e , that doe I : To will is present with me , &c. Rom. 7. 14. to 25. He had no power to doe what he would , yet he lived by faith in the Sonne of God , Gal. 2. 20.

I find no willingnesse to duties , 7. Discoura . I find no relish in them , so that I often omit them .

Unwillingnesse to duties , Ans. 1. argueth much corruption , from whence omissions often flow .

God may have begun his work in thee , 2. although it be thus with thee , it may arise from divers causes , as from unbeliefe , doubting of acceptance of person and dutie ; and it 's no wonder , if such have little list to obey ; also eying infirmities , and not Christ also with them , and not exercising grace , especially faith ; little love to Christ , loving temporall things , deads the heart , and makes it carnall , weaknesse of grace , or from Gods not affording present strength , sloath and ease that slayeth the soule , undiscreet doing duties out of their season , ignorance of the nature of duties , and what God requires in some causes , ignorance of the sweetnesse of spirituall duties . So the soules sicknesse , which hinders the soules relish of spirituall things : also weaknesse of body is a great enemy to action ; My flesh and my heart fayles , but God is the strength of my heart , and my portion for ever , Psal. 73. 26. he never fayles .

Surely , 8. Discoura . I am deceived , I have no grace , because I am not able to subdue my passions .

This declares rather weaknesse of grace , Answ. then otherwise , and it 's certain , it is not from a want of truth of grace , if thou doest that which thou wouldst not , as Rom. 7. 14. to 25. in our selves we are imperfect at the best , Gal. 6. 1. The strongest is not able to stand alone ; also some of the Lords partake more of naturall choler , which increaseth naturally , and as that choler is , we are more or lesse hasty and passionate . A wicked man may be naturally patient , and a childe of God may be sinfully passionate , Jam. 5. 17. Thou shouldst not measure Gods love to thee , nor the truth of his grace in thee by thy mortification of sin , consider Rom. 7. God may for ends best knowne unto himselfe , suffer corruption to be too strong for thee , it may be , to abase thee more , as Paul , Rom. 7. that thou maist see what need thou hast of a Lord Jesus to pardon and heale thee ; who knoweth but God may leave thy personall sanctification the more imperfect , that we may minde and behold Jesus Christ , and our righteousnesse in him , and so live the more in him , and our joy the more in our justification by him ? Rom. 4. 6 , 7. It 's one thing to have thy sinnes forgiven , or not imputed , Psal. 32. 1 , 2. and another thing to be clensed from it ; live in the apprehension of the love of God , and down goeth sin , and all discouragements , so live in discouragements , and sinne prevailes , as Psal. 77. 2. 7 , 8 , 9 , 10. Wee ought not to fetch our comfort from our subduing of sinne , but in Christ , in whom we want no righteousnesse , 1 Cor. 1. 30. Christ is ours , and we are Christs , and Christ is Gods . When we are at the best , we may not live in our selves , nor by sight , but by faith , and when we are at the worst , we are to live upon Christ by saith , and comfort our selves in him , and in him onely : many when they want strength or comfort , they seek what they want from their duties , and comfort themselves in their abstainings from sin , but for Christ he is not in all their thoughts , Psal. 10. 4.

What I once felt is now decayed . 9. Discoura .

The ground of our faith is God in his Word , Ans. 1. and not our sight and feeling , that is sensuall , 2 Cor. 5. 7. We live not by sight ( and feeling ) but by faith .

Whilst thou maintainest feares and jealousies of Gods love to thee , 2. it is no wonder it is so with thee : call to minde the dayes of old ; as Psal. 77.

It 's certain , 3. if ever God manifested his love unto thee , he is still and ever will be the same unto thee , having loved his owne , he loved them unto the end , Joh. 13. 1. With him there is no variablenesse or shadow of turning , Jam. 1. 17.

A child of God may decay in parts , 4. sight , feelings , and exercise of grace for a time , as Phil. 4. 10. these are sometimes more and sometimes lesse , but alwayes as God seeth best , that wee might rest and relie upon nothing but Christ . I see and feele nothing in my selfe , or all is as nothing to me , save onely Jesus Christ , who is all in all to me .

We ought to beleeve that we neither see nor feele ; faith is the evidence of things not seene , Heb. 11. 1. To live by faith , is to walke after the Spirit , and to live by sight and feeling , is to live after the flesh , Rom. 8. 1.

I am discouraged , 10. Disco . because nothing is made good to me , I doe not possesse it .

If thou beest included , Ans. 1 and art under the promise of it , and under the hope of it , thou shalt possesse it .

It may be made good unto thee , 2. without thy possession of it , for wee must not ground faith in the possession of what it beleeves , possession is sutable to sense , and there is neither faith nor hope in what we possesse . To have right in it , and to possesse it , are two things , they died in faith , and yet they did not possesse what they beleeved , Heb. 11. 17 , 18. The possession of things gives no being unto faith , nor is essentiall unto it , no otherwise then as faith gives being unto it . Abraham beleeved he should have a sonne ; here was his faith , Rom. 4. 3. 17. 18. yet he did not possesse his sonne , his sonne had no being but in the promise of God , therefore to place enjoyment to be essentiall to faith , is a very great mistake .

As a man must first beleeve God is , 3. before he can goe to God , Heb. 11. 6. so a man must first beleeve in Christ , to have remission of sinnes by him , and after receive remission of sinnes , as appeares , Acts 10. 43.

It thou hast power to close with God in the truth of his Word , 4. as Sarah did , that shee should have a sonne , not onely before shee had him , but against reason shee beleeved shee should have him , thou hast faith .

But I am not assured that I shall be saved , 11. Disco . therefore I have no faith .

Faith and assurance , Ans. 1 is not one thing , but are differing and distinct ; assurance cannot be without faith , but faith may be without assurance ; for assurance is not the proper act of faith ; assurance is an effect of faith , and a higher measure then that is , and the greater our feeling of assurance is , the lesser our faith is .

Faith in the act is an assenting or cleaving to the truth and faithfulnesse of God in his promise , 2. not from any thing shee feeles in her selfe ▪ but from something it apprehends in God , in his word , Rom. 4. 20 , 21 , 22. The act of faith is sometimes attended with much strife and strugling , for Satan saith to the soule , it 's in vaine for thee to looke to Christ , to beleeve in Christ , Christ saith , Come unto me , beleeve I will ease thee . Now for the soule to rest upon the fidelitie and abilitie of Christ in his promise , is no small measure of faith : assurance is not from the habit of grace , nor from the direct act of faith , but from the reflect act of faith , which is for a man to see and know that he beleeves ; which assurance is from the immediate testimony of the Spirit of God in the conscience of one who is already a beleever , causing the soule to know it beleeves . The Spirit it selfe beareth witnesse with our Spirits , that we are the children of God , Rom. 8. 16.

Now abideth faith , 3. 1 Cor. 13. 13. therefore faith doth at all times one way or other , sufficiently evidence the truth of our estates , if we did at all times truly discerne the testimony or true act of faith ; and the reason why we discerne it not , is for want of a full measure of faith , to withstand all that is opposit to faith ; for some there be , who have faith , yet by reason of their ignorance , and unskilfulnesse , as Heb. 5. 14 , 15. & 10. 15. forgetfulnesse : babes are unskilfull , and have not experience of Gods dealings with his , both for order and manner ; so that when faith doth not so lively act , and when Christ doth not clearly appeare in the soule , he begins to doubt whether he be not deceived ; and when the Lord appeares againe , the doubt is dissolved , and the soule is satisfied , and he is armed with experience against such a time appeares againe , if he be able to judge , and neglect not to marke well , but where use and exercise is wanting , there is not so cleare a discerning , Heb. 5. 11 , 12.

I feare the opposition that is in me , 12. Disco . is not between Christ and Satan , or the Spirit against the flesh , but from my corrupt will , & my inlightened conscience .

I grant all the combates in men are not right , Answ. and many are deceived herein ; yet the difference may easily be discerned ; understand it thus ;

1. The naturall conscience ( although it be inlightened ) acts onely in a naturall way , at the most it is but morall , as not to lye , sweare , steale , and such grosse acts .

2. It stirres not , unlesse it be forced , and onely unto that it is forced unto .

3. It sets one faculty against another , as the will and affections against the understanding , but the Spirit of Christ causeth an opposition in the same faculty , as in the will , &c.

4. Conscience inlightened without grace , it strikes onely at the branches of sin , but not in the roote .

1. Whereas the Spirit of God makes a free , full , constant , impartiall resistance against all sin .

2. And discovers unto the soule her secret corruptions in their colours , and the Spirit over-powers the soule , so as it causeth the soule to hate sin , and leave it .

3. The Spirit causeth the soule to be more glad when sin is more discovered .

4. The Spirit of God teacheth the soule effectually to oppose all sinne ( even the appearance of evill ) equally , proportionably and orderly .

I am so troubled with hideous temptations , 13. Disco . as I beleeve no childe of God is .

Christ was tempted , Answ. Mat. 4. and I know no kind of temptation that God in his Word hath promised that his child shall not be tempted unto ; There hath no temptation taken you , but such as is common to man , therefore beleeve and take comfort in the wisdome and faithfulnesse of God , who will not suffer you to be tempted above that yee are able , but will with the temptation also make a way of escape , that yee may be able to beare it , 1 Cor. 10. 3. If they be burthensome and hatefull unto you , and you cry out to God for help against them , they shall not be laid unto thy charge ; for as it was with the damsell in Deut. 22. 25 , 26. even so is this matter .

I feare that when persecution comes , 14. Disco . I shall not suffer , nor hold out unto the end , but dishonour God , betray his truth , shame and grieve his people .

Cast all these cares and feares upon the Lord , Answ. as Phil. 4. 10. In nothing be carefull , he will care for thee ; I will never leave thee , nor forsake thee , Heb. 15. 5. God will take care for his glory , truth , and servants , his wisdome and power and faithfulnesse shall order all .

Others are discouraged , 15. Disco . because they are not filled with joy and comfort , &c.

Faith may be strong , Answ. when joy is absent ; David had faith when he had no joy ; Restore to me the joy of thy salvation , Psal. 51. 12. He refused comfort , and he wanted it , Psal. 77. 2. Such as judge their condition to be good , because they are filled with joy , they are mistaken , and build upon a wrong foundation , in that they are not founded upon Jesus Christ alone , so as to look to him , and live upon him onely . If some persons had joy , they would make it a Christ to them , and live upon it , and so abuse Christ , and themselves , and their joy : and it 's a mercy for such to want joy , till they can better use it .

Others are discouraged , 16. Disco . because their soules are filled with terrors , saith one , Oh , I feel the wrath of God in my soule , I have a hell in me , and so have been for a long time .

This is a sad condition , Ans. 1 yet thus it may be with one who is the Lords ; for thus it was with Heman , who said , Lord , why castest thou off my soule , why hidest thou thy face from me ? I am ready to dye whilst I suffer thy terrors , I am distracted , thy fierce wrath goeth over me , thy terrors have cut me off , Psal. 88. 15 , 16. And Job cryed , He hath kindled his wrath against me , and counts me unto him as one of his enemies , see Job 19. 10 , 11. & 7. 6. 13 , 14 , 15 , 16. And David in temptation judging himselfe according unto the Law , to sense , and feeling , said , I am cast out of his sight , Psal. 31. 22. Horror hath overwhelmed me , Psal. 55. 5. & 77. 8 , 9. And Jeremiah said , He hath led me into darknesse , but not into light , he hath broken my bones , and compassed me with gall , he hath made my chaines heavy , he hath filled me with bitternesse , thou hast removed my soule far off from peace , and I said my strength and my hope is perished from the Lord , Lam. 3. 2. to 19.

The Lord hath his way in the whirlewind , 2. and in the storme , Nahum 1. 3. Some conceive that if God loved them , there should be no such tempests in their soules , but should injoy a sweet calme , in stead of wrath and terrors , sweet peace and joy : indeed it is so with many , but it 's not so with all that are the Lords , as appeares ; Job saith to God , Why doest thou not pardon my transgressions , &c. Thou hast set me as a mark against thee , so that I am a burden unto my selfe , see Job 7. 18 , 19 , 20 , 21. 13 , 14.

Because it was so with Gideon as it was , 3. he could not be perswaded that God was with him ; the Angel said , God was with him , Judg. 6. 12 , 13. therefore he was mistaken , and so maist thou be , if thou judgest thy selfe not to be the Lords , because thou art filled with terrors , &c. Comfort depends not upon any freedome from terrors , but upon the Spirits revelation of truth , and application of it unto the soule .

The greatest peace any Saint doth possesse , 4. is not to be either a ground or an incouragement for their beleeving , so also there is no terrors any can possesse , ought to be any discouragement in beleeving , for our happinesse is not from any thing we feele or apprehend in our selves , but in that we are knowne of God , who loves us and comprehends us in himselfe , and his not imputing our trespasses unto us , Psal. 32. 1 , 2.

A soule being in such a sad condition , 5. should consider what the Lord saith in Isa. 8. 20. and to cast all their feares of hell upon God in a promise , to trust in the Lord ; for in Jehovah is strength for evermore , Isa. 26. 3 , 4 : When thou art in the flames of this fire , thou shalt not be burnt ; With God nothing is impossible , Luk. 1. 73. O troubled soule , the tender mercies of our God hath visited us , and so it may visit thee also , and give light to thee that sittest in darknesse , and in the shadow of death , to guide thy feet in the way of peace , Luk. 1. 78 , 79. Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace , whose mind is stayed on thee , because he trusts in thee , Isa. 26. 3 , 4.

What was that which brought thee so low , 6. but poring so much upon thy sins , untill thou wert filled with despaire , and thy omissions and commissions against conscience increased thy horror ? do the contrary , and first beleeve , then repent , and see that yee daube not your selves over with your duties ; and know that which is a great cause of mourning , is no cause of despaire , therefore cast not away your confidence , Heb. 10. 35. for yet a little while , and he that shall come will come , and will not tarry , Heb. 10. 37 , 38. Therefore say as the Prophet said , When I sit in darknesse , the Lord shall be a light unto me , he will bring me forth into the light , and I shall behold his righteousnesse , Micah 7. 8 , 9.

I am in great misery and want outwardly , 17. Disco . by reason of poverty , if God did love me , I should not be so much neglected as I am .

Thou shouldst not reason so ; Ans. 1. what thinkest thou of the condition of those who wandred about in sheep-skins , goat-skins , in deserts , mountaines , dens and caves of the earth ? I feare they were more destitute of outward comfort then thee , and suffered more hunger , cold , and nakednesse then thee ; hast thou not a house , not a bed to lie on , the places where they wandred afforded not these things unto them ; art thou destitute , afflicted , and forsaken ? so were they whom God loved , and esteemed the world not worthy of , Heb. 11. 37 , 38.

Poverty and want hath attended and 2. kept company with many a deare childe of God ; Job was poore — yea the Churches of Jesus Christ have been poore ; the Church of Corinth was poore , 2 Cor. 8. 14. The Church of Smyrna was poore , Rev. 2. 9. The Church of Macedonia was in deep poverty , 2 Cor. 8. 1 , 2. And our Lord Jesus Christ was poore , 2 Cor. 8. 9. And thou maist be very poore , and yet God may love thee , as he loves Jesus Christ , Joh. 17. 26. The poore receive the Gospel , and the profession of the Gospel of Christ , have made the rich poore , in that for Christ they have suffered the losse of all things , Phil. 7. 8. In thy greatest want be content to be like Christ in poverty , as well as in glory , Joh. 17. 24. for the time will quickly come , in which you shall feele no want , nor suffer no hunger , cold , or nakednesse .

There is no state and condition under the Sun that is free from Satanst ēptations , 3. those who have more abundance of outward things , he suggests & insinuates unto them , that these things are all they are like to have , & that seeing they have a heaven here of outward contents , they must not expect another hereafter . And to those who have greater gifts and parts , he saith , they are not given to them in love , but onely for the benefit of others , and is ready to discourage them ; Satan is ready to get an advantage of us , wee are not ignorant of his devises , 2 Cor. 2. 11. The Lord teach his to know the depths of Satan , Rev. 2. 24. to know his stratagems and to resist him . And as there is no state under the Sunne free from trouble , so it is a sweet comfort unto all that are the Lords , that there is no state and condition , but as God can , so he will support his in , and under it , and make it sweet and comfortable unto them , yea the best for them ; for all things shall work for good to them that love God , 1 Cor. 10. 13. Rom. 8. 28. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ ? Shall tribulation , or distresse , or persecution , or famine , or nakednesse , or perill , or sword ? I am perswaded that neither death , nor life , nor Angels , nor principalities , nor powers , nor things present , nor things to come , nor height , nor depth , nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God , which is in Christ Jesus our Lord , Rom. 8. 35. 38 , 39.

I cannot see God , 18. Disco . surely God hath forsaken me .

Sometimes God hides himselfe from his , Ans. 1 as the Scripture declares ; Verily thou art a God that hidest thy selfe , Isa. 45. 15. I opened to my beloved , and he had withdrawne himselfe , Song 5. 6. Behold , I goe forward , but he is not there , and backward , but I cannot perceive him ; on the left hand where he doth work , but I cannot behold him ; he hideth himselfe on the right hand , that I cannot see him , Job 23. 8 , 9.

Our carnall reason , 2. and corrupt heart , and Satan with his suggestions , are so neere us , before our eyes , that we cannot see God , and wee hearken so much to what they say , that we minde not the voyce of the Spirit , Rom. 8. 16.

It is one thing to know , 3. and another thing to know that wee know : Christ said , they knew ; they said , they knew not ; Christ said , Whither I goe yee know , and the way yee know ; Thomas said unto him , Lord , we know not whither thou goest , how then can we know the way ? Christ spake true , and they knew not that they knew , Joh. 14. 3 , 4 , 5. So shee saw Jesus standing , and knew not that it was Jesus . When their eyes were opened , they knew him , Luk. 24. 31. Paul prayed that they might know the hope of their calling , Ephes. 1. 18 , 19.

When God hideth his face , 4. we are to wait upon him , and look for him , Isa. 8. 17. for he will returne againe ; but Sion said , The Lord hath forsaken me , & my Lord hath forgotten me . Can a woman forget her sucking childe , & c ? Yea shee may , yet will not I forget thee , Isa. 49. 14. For a small moment have I forsaken thee , but with great mercy will I gather thee , Isa. 45. 7 , 8. When God absents himselfe from his , his love and care is the same unto them , as it is when he most manifests himselfe to them .

Another is discouraged , 19. Disco . saying , I thought I had true faith , but since I fell into a great sin , I am perswaded if I had been the Lords , I should not have been so left of God , as I was to sin so as I did .

Say not so , Ans. 1 but consider that even some of the children of God , he hath suffered to fall , if not into the same sinnes , yet as great ; David sinned in adultery and murder ; how greatly did Solomon sin after he obtained mercy , 1 King . 11. 9. And Peter denied Christ with an oath , yet his faith was not voyd or nought , Christs prayer was heard ; I have prayed for thee , that thy faith faile not , Luk. 22. 32. therefore his faith never fayled him . These examples are recorded in Scripture , to set forth the glory of the riches of Gods free grace , Eph. 2. 4. That men may know what God can doe , and that great sinners might not despaire or faint under their sin , therefore Christ saith , All sinnes shall be forgiven unto the sonnes of men , and blasphemies , Mark . 3. 28. If any man sin , we have an Advocate with the Father , Jesus Christ the righteous , 1 Joh. 2. 1. The bloud of Jesus Christ makes us cleane from all sin , 1 Joh. 1. 7.

To despaire of the mercy of God , 2. because our sinnes are great , were to limit God in his mercy , which is a greater sin , and an adding sin to sin , therefore for the greatest sinne a beleever can commit , he ought not to moane without hope ; for no sin he can commit , can never put him into a state of condemnation , or under the curse , Rom. 8. 1 , 2 , 3. And whilst we live in this world , God healeth not our sinfull natures wholly , nor takes it away quite ; the flesh lusteth , Rom. 7. yet God ever esteemes his as they are in Christ , ( and not simply as they are in themselves ) Eph. 1. 4. 1 Cor. 1. 30. Paul saith , I my selfe keep the law of God , but with my flesh the law of sin . Sin doth the evill that beleevers doe see , Rom. 7. 15. 17. 20. 1 Joh. 3. 9. Consider Nehe. 9. 16 , 17 , &c. He knoweth our frame , and remembreth that wee are but dust , Psal. 103. 14.

God is never an enemy to his , 3. though they greatly sinne against him , Psal. 51. We are not beloved for our own sakes , nor any thing in our selves , but for Christ in whom God is well pleased , Mat. 3. 17. Therefore nothing in us , or that we doe , can make us to be loved more or lesse . God may well say of himselfe ; I am the Lord , I change not , Mal. 3. 6. His love is as himselfe , ever the same ; and Christ in whom we are beloved ever the same , Heb. 13. 8. therefore a beleevers hope , joy , and confidence , is to be ever the same in Christ , Ps. 23. 1. So we are commanded to Rejoyce alwayes , Psal. 5. 11. & 32. 11. Let them exceedingly rejoyce , Psal. 40. 16. Psal. 68. 3. and to rejoyce evermore ; Againe I say rejoyce , 1 Thes. 1. 5. 16. Phil. 4. 4. The joy of the Lord is our strength , Neh. 8. 16.

Oh there is enough in the Lord Jesus to satisfie thee at all times , 4. he is an unchangeable object of true joy , in him onely is all our hope and happinesse , whose bloud hath payd all the debt of all thy sinnes ; It 's Christ that died , who now shall condemn ? surely none , Rom. 8. 33. Therefore let not thy fall cause thee to question the love of God , seeing thy salvation depends not upon thy repentance or holinesse , but from Gods free grace , Rom. 9. 15 , 16. Isa. 43. 24 , 25. & 57. 17. Ezek. 16. 1. to 9. My little children , these things I write unto you , that yee sin not , 1 Joh. 2. 1. And for any to turne the grace of God into wantonnesse , that is , the sweet mercy and consolations of God , to incourage them in their sinning , they are led by the Spirit of the Devill , he is their father , and his works they do , Joh. 8. I speak to you that regard iniquitie , Psal. 66. 18. that love sin , and delight in it , and are bold and venturous upon it , and can drinke downe iniquitie like water , Job 15. 16. You at present are in the gall of bitternesse , and whiles it is so with them , here is no consolation for them , th●●e may not be numbred with them who through weaknesse and temptation , or want of watchfulnesse , are overtaken , and fall into sinne , which they hate , by not shunning the occasions of sinne , &c. Surely all the Lords have need to pray , as David did to God , Hold up my goings in thy paths , that my footsteps slip not , Psal. 17. 5. Howsoever it be , be not out of hope , although thou didst persecute the truth , as Paul did , and them that professed it , Act. 9. 1 , 2. yet afterwards he preached the faith , Gal. 1. 23. thou knowest not but God may convert thee also . The servant of God having fallen into sinne , is to rise by faith ; for , shall a man fall , and not rise ? Jer. 8. 4. When I fall , I shall arise , Micah 7. 7. Who is a God like unto thee , that pardoneth the iniquitie , and passeth by the transgressions of the Remnant of his people ? Micah 7. 18 , 19 , 20. God subdues the corruption that is in his , not all at once , but by degrees ; therefore he saith , I will be mercifull to their unrighteousnesse , and their sinnes will I remember no more , Heb. 8. 12. God hath nothing against those who are in Christ , 1 Cor. 1. 30. Yee are in Christ .

20. Disco . But alas , I feele my heart is hardened .

Ans. 1 There is much hardnesse of heart in a childe of God , and they feele it , and complaine of it , and mourne under it , which is from the new heart in them .

To feele hardnesse is from softnesse , 2. and the condition of an experienced childe of God : O Lord , why hast thou made us to erre from thy wayes , and hardened our hearts from thy feare ? doubtlesse , thou art our father : thou , O Lord , art our father , Isa. 63. 16 , 17. Their hearts were hardened , yet they were the children of God .

Motives or incouragements to beleeve .

NOtwithstanding faith is the gift of God , Eph. 2. 8. Phil. 1. 29. it floweth from the Spirits operation in the heart , therefore our beleeving is said to be the worke of God , Joh. 6. 28. the operation of God , Col. 2. 12. the Spirit of faith , 2 Cor. 4. 13. The Spirit inlighteneth our understandings , and boweth our hearts to beleeve . So that without the Spirit of Christ , we can doe nothing , Joh. 15. 5. Ephes. 1. 19. It is through grace that men beleeve , Act. 18. 27. yet men are to use the meanes ; for when in the preaching of the Word , we bid persons to doe so and so , we expect the holy Spirit of God to put power to the words spoken , to make them effectuall to enable the creature to obey ; as , He said unto me , Sonne of man , stand up upon thy feet : and the Spirit entred into me when he had spoken unto me , and set me upon my feet , Ezek. 2. 1 , 2. And the dead shall heare the voyce of the Sonne of God , and they that heare shall live , Joh. 5. 25. Else it were in vaine to speak to dead men , 1 Pet. 4. 6. To beleeve , &c. is a spirituall worke , and all men by nature are spiritually dead , Eph. 2. 1. & 5. 14. onely they beleeve whose hearts God opens , as Acts 16. 14. None can beleeve but they to whom it is given , Phil. 1. 29. Therefore such words as these , Beleeve in the Lord Jesus , and thou shalt be saved , Act. 16. 30 , 31. in this sense are to be understood ; for it is not in him that willeth , and him that runneth , &c. Rom. 9. 16. it is God that worketh both to will and to doe .

Incouragements to beleeve .

1. Because the Gospel is to be preached to every creature ; he that beleeves shall be saved , Act. 16. 16. There is no precept or command for any to doubt , none are exempted or forbidden to beleeve , see Act. 16. 30 , 31. 1 Joh. 3. 23. but men are commanded the contrary , and to follow after faith , and to lay hold on eternall life , 1 Tim. 6. 11.

2. By beleeving we come to know our interest in Christ , and of our salvation by him ; Whosoever beleeves in him shall not perish but have everlasting life , Joh. 3. 15 , 16. He that beleeves in the Sonne , hath everlasting life , vers. 36. see Joh. 6. 40.

3. By beleeving , we honour God , He that receives his testimony , hath set to his seale , that God is true , Joh. 3. 33. & Joh. 5. 10. therefore none can beleeve too soone , or too confidently , or too constantly .

4. If yee beleeve not , surely yee shall not be established , Isa. 7. 9. There is no true quietnesse and settlement of soule , without beleeving ; also thou standst by faith ; thou fallest into sinne by unbeliefe , Rom. 11. 20. Heb. 9. 12. The word preached ( is precious and powerfull , yet it ) profited them not , because it was not mixed with faith , Heb. 4. 2.

5. It 's faith that rids the soule of all its distempers , doubts , feares , discouragements , Rom. 5. 1. ( we may not separate the Spirit from faith , nor faith from the Spirit . )

6. By faith in Christ , thou shalt be kept in perfect peace , it will sweetly , transcendently refresh thy soule , Thou wilt keepe him in perfect peace , because he trusts in thee , Isa. 26. 3 , 4. Being justified by faith , we have peace with God , Rom. 5. 1. By faith we apprehend Christ our justification , the fruit of which is joy and peace .

7. By unbeliefe , we adde sin to sin in the highest nature , if we beleeve not what God saith , our act of unbeliefe accuseth God to speake falsly , He that beleeveth not hath made God a lyer , 1 Joh. 5. 10. It is impossible for God to lye . The strength of Israel cannot lye , 1 Sam. 15. 29. Nor can it be any dishonour to God , nor hurt to thy selfe , to hope in his mercy , and to beleeve in him ; therefore when thou art tempted to unbeliefe , set before thee the evill of unbeliefe .

8. As bad as thou canst be , have been received to mercy ; Jesus Christ came to save sinners ; This is a faithfull saying , and worthy of all acceptation , 1 Tim. 1. 15 , 16. When thou layst in thy bloud , behold it was a time of love , Ezek. 16. 8. He justifieth the ungodly , Rom. 4. 5. While we were yet sinners , Christ dyed for us , Rom. 5. 8. 10. therefore have hope . Feare not , but beleeve , Luk. 8. 50. The Lord will command his loving kindnesse in the day time , and in the night , Psal. 42. 8. Hope thou in God , vers. 5. Be not afraid , onely beleeve , Mark . 5. 36.

9. Unbeliefe straitens thy heart , and stoppeth thy mouth , hinders thy thankfulnesse ▪ and praising of God ; thou shalt be dumb , because thou beleevest not , Luk. 1. 20.

10. Unlesse we beleeve , we can never glorifie God ; He staggered not at the promise of God through unbeliefe , but was strong in faith , giving God the glory , Rom. 4. 20.

Quest. From whence is it that many of the Lords children have so many doubts and feares .

Answ. It ariseth from many severall causes ; as , 1. From ignorance of the fulnesse and freenesse of the promise , Isa. 55. 2. or mindlesnesse and heedlesnesse of the promise , Heb. 2. 1. 3. And from corruption in the heart , opposing grace , Rom. 7. 4. And from the bodies distemper with melancholy , 5. or from the conscience ( being inlightened ) which sides with the Law against it selfe , Rom. 7. 24. 6. or from unskilfulnesse in the Word of righteousnesse , Heb. 5. 13. 7. And from unbeliefe , which takes the Law and applies it to it selfe , which occasioneth feares , and feares doubts . 8. And from loose walking with God . 9. Or from the Spirits not operating in the soule ; the Spirit when it acts , speakes peace , and causeth faith to act more strongly , Rom. 8. 16.

Meanes to quiet and settle a troubled soule in assurance of the love of God ; God gives peace to his by meanes , as appeares 2 Thes. 3. 16.

Commune with thy heart , and make diligent search to find out what it is that troubleth thee , Psal. 77. 6. Aske a reason of thy soule , why it is disquieted , why it is cast downe , Psal. 42. 11. Why art thou cast downe , O my soule ? why art thou disquieted ? Psal. 42. 5 , 6.

Examine from whence all thy discouragements come , they come not from God , for his voyce is onely comfort unto his people , he hath declared himselfe to be mercifull , and gracious , and slow to anger , and plenteous in mercy ; He hath not dealt with us after our sinnes , nor rewarded us according unto our iniquities , Psa. 103. 3 , 4. 8. 10. &c. His voyce is comfort , Comfort yee my people , speak yee comfortably to Jerusalem , cry unto her , that her warfare is accomplished , that her iniquitie is pardoned , Isa. 4. 1 , 2. I know the thoughts that I thinke towards you , saith the Lord , thoughts of peace , and not of evill , Jer. 29. 11. Nor come they from Christ , he doth not trouble nor discourage any ; He binds up the broken-hearted ; he proclaimes peace , liberty , he comforts all that mourne , he gives beautie for ashes , the oyle of joy for mourning , and garments of praise , for the Spirit of heavinesse , &c. Isa. 61. 1 , 2 , 3. Luk. 4. 18. He is gracious and piti●ull , He will not quench the smoaking flax , nor breake the bruised reed , Isai . 42. 3. His voyce is full of love & tendernesse , all his words are sweet words ; as , Let not your hearts be troubled , Joh. 13. 1. Feare not , it is your Fathers pleasure , to give you a kingdome , Luk. 12. 32. Cast you● care upon me , I will care for you , Phil. 4. 6. Christs voyce is open to me ; My sister , my love , my dove , my undefiled , Song 5. 2. On sweet words of Christ to his ! Nor come they from the holy Spirit of God , he is the greatest and most sweetest comforter , he causeth no discouragements , but removes them all , by revealing and applying to the soule the love of God , and carrieth the soule by faith from all discouragements to God , who is love & peace , where the soule is to rest , Psal. 116. 7. and to be filled with his sweet peace . Therefore all our discouragements do proceed ,

1. From the Devill , who is an enemy to faith ; He taketh the word out of mens hearts , lest they should beleeve , Luk. 8. 12. 1 Thes. 3. 5.

2. Our own hearts ; Take heed , brethren , lest there be in any of you an evill heart , in departing from the living God , Heb. 3. 12.

3. Or the lying vanities we have chosen : but they that harken unto lying vanities , forsake their own mercy , Jonah 2. 8.

Give no way to any discouragement at all , though it doe seeme never so just and reasonable , &c. This was Davids sin to admit of a parley with that which might tend to discourage him ; saying , Will the Lord cast off for ever ? doth his promise fayle for evermore ? I said this is my infirmitie , Psal. 77. 7 , 8 , 9 , 10. As soone as he saw his infirmitie , he had other thoughts of God , saying , Who is so great a God as our God ? thou art a God that doest wonders ; and his footsteps are not knowne , vers. 14. 19. If God in his greatnesse were knowne , and the wonders he doth knowne , and his footsteps , the way he goeth knowne , men would admire him , and rejoyce at that for which they now mourne . When thou art tempted to unbeliefe , set before thee the evill of this sinne in it selfe , and the effects of it .

Learne to know and distinguish between the voyce of Christ , and all other voyces , that thou maist say , It is the voyce of my beloved that knocketh , and hearken unto it , Song 5. 2. Christs voyce is peace to his , Luk. 24. 26. Thy sinnes are forgiven , Luk. 7. 48. I will remember them no more , Heb. 10. 17. Therefore that voyce that tends to hinder the peace of the Saints , suits with Satan , and is not the voyce of Christ : I will heare what the Lord will speake ; for he will speake peace to his people , Psal. 85. 8. Satan also speaks in the soule , saying , Is not this a delusion ? is it likely to be from God ? hast thou a heart fit for Christ ? and because this last voyce is more sutable to reason , the soule is ready to close with it , and to conclude against God , and his own soule , that the voyce was not from God , but a delusion of Satan , mistaking Christs voyce to be the voyce of Satan , and Satans voyce to be the voyce of Christ , which is a miserable mistake . Therefore learne to know the severall colours , sounds , and voyces , which are for God , and which are for Satan , 1 Cor. 14. 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11. Or else you will mistake and come unprepared to the battell , 2 Cor. 7. 5.

Learne to know and distinguish between the voyce of the Gospel , and the voyce of the Law ; the Law saith , Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things that are written in the Law to doe them , Gal. 3. 10 , 11. When there is any worke required to be done upon paine of punishment , or upon promise of eternall life , it is the voyce of the Law ; the Law requires a doing of something for life . M●ses describes the righteousnesse of the Law , that the man that doth these things , shall live by them , Rom. 10. 5. But the voyce of the Gospel is otherwise , that Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law , being made a curse for us , Gal. 3. 13. And to him that worketh not , but beleeveth on him that justifieth the ungodly , his faith is counted for righteousnesse , Rom. 10. 5. see 9. verse to 13. and that his mercy is above what we can aske or thinke , Eph. 3. 20. So the promises of li●e , they are free without condition , and the Gospel declares what God workes in us , and freely gives unto us , I will love them freely , Hos. 14. 4. If some persons did listen more to the promise , which is the voyce of the Gospel , and not unto the voyce of the Law , or the voyce of corruption , they should enjoy more peace , and lesse trouble .

Meddle not with the threatnings in the Word , so as to apply them to thy selfe , because they belong not unto thee , they are no part of thy portion , they have nothing to doe with a beleever , nor he hath nothing to doe with them ; the threatnings are for them that are under the Law , but wee are not under the Law , but under grace , Rom. 6. 14. A beleever having sinned , through weaknesse , applieth the threatnings against that sinne to himselfe , not considering that Christ hath satisfied for the sinnes they commit ; Christ being made a curse for us , Gal. 3. 13.

Be sure yee judge not your state by false principles ; as , to be bad for the want of that , which if thou haddest it , would not prove thy state good , as knowledge , memory , P●●ls sensiblenesse of sin , &c. Nor judge thy state bad for the having of that which if thou wert freed from , would not prove thy estate good , as passion , temptations , discontentednesse , &c. If this Rule were observed , some should not be so troubled as now they are .

Take heed you be not overwhelmed with sin , therefore eye not so much thy infirmities : Beware of such a minding of sin , and such a complaining of it , either to Gods , or man , as may discourage , oppresse , and trouble thy soule , for this is sinfull . Davids experience might teach him this ; I complained , and my spirit was overwhelmed ; I am so troubled that I cannot speake , Psal. 77. 3 , 4. 8. Therefore hearken not to thy faylings , corruptions , doubts , feares , for as they are all against God , so they are all against thy soule . There is no grace , no mercy from them , therefore what thou seest and feelest , see not , consi●er not , forget , and what thy sense sees not , see . Faith is the evidence of things not seene , Heb. 11. 1. Walke by faith , not by sight , 2 Cor. 5. 7.

Eye Christ onely , mind him , meditate upon him , and his rich and free grace , fetch all thy comforts from him , who is made to thee , Wisdome , Righteousnesse , Sanctification , and Redemption , 1 Cor. 1. 30. If thou attendest only to God in his promise , thou shalt finde Rest , Psal. 116. 7. O beleever , eye not so much thy selfe , or thy sinnes , as Christs full and perfect satisfaction , which was offered and accepted for all thy sinnes , Heb. 10. 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18. Oh therefore live , and rest thy soule upon thy sweet Lord Jesus Christ alone , & place all thy confidence in him . Doest thou not heare God say to thee , Cast away all thy feares , and come to me , I will settle thee , comfort , quicken , uphold thee , and be better to thee then thy selfe can be ; I will be all in all unto thee ?

Know the happinesse and perfection of the state of a beleever in Christ , he is cleane from all sin by the bloud of Christ , 1 Joh. 1. 7. They are removed from us , Psal. 103. 12. A beleever in Christ is accepted of God in him , as perfect , righteous , and comely , as Christ is ; for Christ saith to his ; Thou art all faire my love , there is no spot in thee . There is not any sin a beleever can commit , can be a ground sufficient to question the love of God , nor ought they to cast away their confidence in God , for any thing they doe , or can befall them , nor ought they to cause any unquietnesse of spirit in them , Heb. 10. 19 , 20. 22. 25. For now there is none that can lay any thing to the charge of Gods Elect , as Rom. 8. 1. Oh meditate on this truth , until thy heart be over powered with it , and thou injoy the sweetnesse of it , and ever mind it seriously , thy full freedome and sweet libertie thou hast in Christ , Gal. 5. 13.

Learne to distinguish between thy Justification and thy personall Sanctification ; the first is perfect and compleat in Christ ; the latter is in our selves , and is weake , and imperfect , and uncertaine , as appeares , Rom. 7. Let us looke off our sinnes , and looke upon Gods sweet promise , who saith , Their sinnes and iniquities will I remember no more , Heb. 10. 17. So that now wee may draw neere with a true heart , in full assurance of faith , for he is faithfull that promised , vers. 22 , 23.

Let not thy comfort depend upon thy personall Sanctification , because from it there can no sure selected constant comfort flow . To seek comfort from Sanctification , and not from their Justification in Christ , is a cause of much trouble in many a weake beleever ; for Sanctification hath nothing to doe with Justification , nor salvation , as any cause of it . Also Sanctification admits of degrees , but Justification admits of neither rules nor degrees , and is more glorious then Sanctification : our Justification depends not upon our apprehending of it , nor in our receiving of it , but upon the effectualnesse and merit of what our sweet Lord Jesus hath done for us , Heb. 10. 14. 18 , 19. So that now wee may well have boldnesse to enter into the Holiest by the bloud of Jesus , vers. 20. Justification is apprehended by faith , Heb. 11. 1. Joh. 8. 56. Faith doth evidence to us our justification ; for the Scripture saith , all that beleeve are justified , Act. 13. 39. It is possible to have a full assurance of faith , Heb. 10. 22. therefore faith is an unquestionable evidence : and when faith is hidden and doubtfull , Justification is not apprehended ; and when faith is hidden and doubtfull , Sanctification is not evident but doubtfull , and so cannot evidence to us our Justification : the effects of Sanctification cause men to question their Justification , therefore no effect of Sanctification can evidence to the soule its Justification ; and that soule that by Faith apprehends his Justification by Christ , not onely knoweth it , but may live upon it , injoying the sweet fruit of it , peace , joy , strength , without any considering the effects of Sanctification in himselfe . And seeing Christ is made Sanctification to a beleever , 1 Cor. 1. 30. why may not a beleever live upon his own , and say , I have Sanctification in Christ , which is perfect , my actuall righteousnesse doth often faile me , but Christs righteousnesse indures for ever , Psal. 111. 3. therefore I will fetch all my comfort from Christ , and my Justification by him ; and as wee are not to conclude our Justification from any effect of Sanctification , so wee are not to conclude that apprehension of Justification to be from God , as shall take men off the meanes and rules of Sanctification , because it is to the dishonour of God for men not to walke holily , according to the word of God , Tit. 2. 14. Prize and preserve the peace of thy conscience .

Be sure yee allow your selves in no sinne , but in the power and strength of Christ , to hate and abhorre with the greatest indignation all sinne , and the appearance of evill ; it is better to dye then to sinne : there is that which accompanieth sinne , which strikes at a beleevers peace and comfort , and will damp , straiten and oppresse their comfort , joy , and peace in God , unlesse God doth wonderfully strengthen their faith in him . And such as live by faith , and injoy sweet peace in him , have found sin to be an enemy , and a let to their faith and comfort , it having often unsetled , and disquieted , and clouded their soules peace , though indeed it ought not so to doe , for we are to remember that sweet place , Heb. 10. 17. Their sinnes and iniquities will I remember no more . This alone is able to settle a soule , it being full of sweetnesse and life .

Doe not trouble thy selfe with any thing that may befall thee ; in case thou wert certaine great troubles shall befall thee , be not troubled at any trouble , much lesse for future trouble , nor thinke not to incounter with & supply a future trouble , with a present strength ; if many and great troubles come , God is alsufficient , and will remove them , or give strength to beare them when they come , 1 Cor. 10. 13.

Mind seriously those promises of God that are sutable to thy condition , separate thy selfe to meditate upon them , as Prov. 18. 2. hide them in thy heart , as Mat. 13. 44. There is strength and sweetnesse in the promise , thou maist venture thy soule upon God in his promise , and live upon it , thou knowest not but God may reveale his promise to thee , and settle it sweetly and fully upon thy soule by his almightie power , as Ephes. 1. 19 , 20. Therefore let not Gods promises be strange to thee , but feed upon them , eat them ; Eate O friends , drinke abundantly O beloved , Song 5. 1. Leave not the promise , untill thou beest refreshed , revived , raised , ravished with Gods rich grace and infinite free love , and thy heart inlarged with thankfulnesse and obedience unto God againe for the exceeding riches of his mercy , Eph. 2. 9. His plenteous Redemption , Psal. 130. 7.

Treasure up experiences of Gods goodnesse unto thy soule , but who among you will give eare to this ? who will hearken and heare for the time to come ? Isa. 42. 23. Remember the dayes of old , I have considered the dayes of old , and the yeares of ancient time , Psal. 77. 5. Thou hast been my helpe , Psal. 63. 7. I was brought low , and he helped me , see 2 Tim. 4. 17 , 18. Psal. 89. 49.

Keepe thy heart calme and quiet from all passions , as feare , griefe , &c. The still soule can best heare and know Christs voice , his still voyce ; but where feare , vexation , and distempers dwell , they are not aware of Christ , nor themselves , and commonly they that feare most have least cause , as they had the Angel of the Lord came upon them , and the glory of the Lord shone round about them , and they were sore afraid ; and the Angel said unto them , Feare not , for behold , I bring you tidings of great joy , Luk. 2. 9 , 10. When the soule is troubled with any passion , it is not at the command of faith , Luk. 24. 41. the violence of their joy hindred their faith , Let not your hearts be troubled , Joh. 13. 1. Quietnesse is the stay of the soule to doe or receive .

Be contented with thy present estate , and fill not thy head , heart , or hand , with any more businesse then thou must needs . Consider Heb. 13. 5. Take heed of the cares of this life , Luk. 21. 34. 15. Trouble not thy selfe with needlesse supposed feares , if thou doest , thou drawest upon thy selfe reall sorrow , and unnecessary discontent ; there be many that are possessed with bitter sorrows from supposed sufferings .

Order thy conversation aright , To him that ordereth his conversation aright , will I shew the salvation of God , Psal. 50. 23. Want of wisdome to dispose of , of diligence to dispatch , what necessitie requires to be done in the right time and place , hath produced such inconveniences , as hath unavoydably caused trouble , a disquieted and an unsetled spirit .

Walke with God in his wayes , ordinances , they are for thy comfort , strength , joy and peace in him ; there is no quiet to those that worship the beast , Rev. 14. 10 , 11. Use Gods means , but live not upon ordinances , but upon God in them , for meanes alone are not sufficient to doe us any good , 1 Cor. 1. 21.

Doe not sleight nor refuse Gods consolations , let them not seeme small unto thee ; are the consolations of God small with thee , Job 15. 11. O soule own that comfort God gives thee , if it seeme small to thee , it s thy own , own it , lest yee live to complaine , saying , as David did ; My soule refused to be comforted , Psal. 77. 2. and to wish yee had that yee despised ; be thankfull to God for what thou hast received , and hold that fast , and let nothing goe that may tend to thy peace ; rest satisfied in Christs righteousnesse , and adde nothing unto it ; I will make mention of thy righteousnesse , even of thine onely , Psal. 71. 15 , 16. 19. 24. Thy righteousnesse is an everlasting righteousnesse , Psal. 119. 142. see Psal. 22. 31. & 35. 28. & 50. 6. & 51. 14. Jer. 33. 16. The perfection of Christs righteousnesse is held forth unto us , and doth alwayes lie before us for us , that we might ever be comforted with it , and rejoyce in it , with thankfulnesse for it , seeing it so perfect , and full of divine consolation . Oh here is enough to refresh and satisfie all the Lords to all eternitie , so that we have enough , we need no other , nor no more righteousnesse .

Meditate on Gods goodnesse unto thee , let his loving kindnesse be ever before thy eyes ; Wee have thought of thy loving kindnesse , O God , Psal. 48. 9.

Beleeve in God , I , in Christ , want of faith , or want in faith , is the cause of trouble in the soule ; Yee beleeve in God , beleeve also in me ; and let not your hearts be troubled , Joh. 13. 1. Faith in Christ quiets and settles a troubled soule . Thou canst not be too confident in resting upon Christ in his free grace , Psal. 30. 5. therefore come boldly to the throne of grace , Heb. 4. 16. Those who know God , will trust him with their bodies and soules , and that upon his word ; All that know thy Name , will trust in thee , Psal. 9. 9 , 10. but a foole neither will , nor can doe so ; O foole , and slow of heart to beleeve , Luk. 24. 25. But those who are made wise by God , will trust in the word of the Lord , Isa. 26. 3 , 4. and say , in his word doe I hope , Psal. 130. 5. When the Lord pleases to settle a soule in the assurance of his love , he causeth the soule to trust in his word ; Remember thy word unto thy servant , upon which thou hast caused me to hope , Psal. 119. 49. God by his word conveys that to the soule , which is sutable to its wants , and by his power and authoritie settles it upon the soule . Above all , take the shield of faith , Eph. 6. 16. Feare not , beleeve , Luk. 8. 50. Yea , cleave to God in his promise , even then when thou art in thy greatest feares , and most sensible of thy unworthinesse ; trust in him at all times , God is a refuge for us , Selah , Psal. 62. 8. If at all times , then at the worst times also ; yea even then beleeve , and heare nothing against thy beleeving God in his promise . Abraham beleeved against hope , Rom. 4. 18. So should wee doe ; oh beleeve God intends thy good ; Christ came to seeke and to save the lost , Luk. 19. 10. Lost , viz. in the sight and sense of thy own sin and misery , and in thy own sufficiency .

Improve thy doubts , feares , temptations against beleeving , to incourage thee in beleeving ; for hast thou not by experience found , that it is but in vaine to hearken unto any of them ? Consider often and well these places , Rom. 16. 20. Heb. 10. 35 , 36 , 37. Rev. 3. 11. 1 Pet. 4. 19. & 5. 7. And search the Scriptures . Reading helpeth mens judgements , memories , affections , confirmes our faith , and fits us to answer the temptations of Satan .

Renounce all lying vanities , hearken unto none of them .

First , hearken not to the voyce of thy heart , it is a lying vanitie , it will deceive thee , Pro. 3. 5 , 6 , 7. Isa. 44. 20.

Secondly , hearken not to Satan .

Thirdly , hearken not to sense ; Thomas said , he would not beleeve , unlesse he might see and thrust his hand into his side , Joh. 20. 24 , 25. But this sensuall practise is to be abhorred by us ; for this is to consult with flesh and bloud , which cannot discerne spirituall things , 1 Cor. 2. 14. and is condemned by God , Gal. 1. 16. So some persons will see such a holy frame of spirit in themselves , and feele such a sin subdued , &c. before they will beleeve , yet faith looks not to such things as these , but onely to God in his word ; therefore wee must not live by sight , but by faith , 2 Cor. 5. 7. and blessed are they that have not seene , yet have beleeved , Joh. 20. 29.

Fourthly , hearken not to carnall reason , if it be hearkened unto , thou canst not beleeve , nor submit to God , nor be setled ; for doth not reason say , that a Virgin cannot bring forth a childe , and a woman of ninetie yeares is past conceiving a childe , therefore reason saith it cannot be , and so contradicteth God himselfe ? Gen. 17. 16 , 17. Mat. 1. Also can reason beleeve , that by faith the walls of Jericho fell downe , and that the Saints stopped the mouths of Lyons , and quenched the violence of fire by faith , yet faith did it , Heb. 11. 30. 33 , 34. Or is it likely or possible to reason for a man to walke upon the Sea as Pe●er did ? Mat. 14. 29. And did not Christs command seeme vaine to Peters reason , that he should cast in his net into the Sea , seeing he had cast it in so often , and fished all night , and catched nothing ? Luk. 5. 8. Can reason conceive how the dead , who are eaten with beasts , or fishes , or turned into dust , can be raised to life ? or that the Sea can be divided , the Sunne goe backward , or the Rockes yeeld water in abundance ; surely there cannot be any reason given for them . And seeing sense and corrupt reason is so contrary to God in his word , why should we hearken unto them , when they say the soule hath no grace , because sense seeth none , and that God will not pardon their sinnes , because there is no reason to reason why he should , nor no way to reason which way it can be , yet it may be , for with God all things are possible , Mat. 19. 26. They that hearken unto lying vanities , forsake their own mercies , Jonah 2. 8.

5. Live not upon duties ; 6. nor upon good report ; 7. nor upon groundlesse hopes ; 8. nor upon peace ; 9. comfort ; 10. joy ; 11. raptures ; 12. ravishments : though they all be true or false , live upon God alone , and upon nothing else besides God in Christ ; if thou doest live upon any thing else , as thy foundation is unsound , so it will deceive thee ; and whatsoever their sparkes may be , they must and shall lye downe in sorrow , Isa. 50. 10.

Let not thy comfort depend upon Gods actings or dispensation to the inward or outward man , if thou doest , thou canst not be setled , for they are oft changeable and contrary one to another ; one day thou maist have peace , joy , strength , another none of these ; to day God may shew himselfe to thee , and in a moment of time he may hide himselfe ; to day rich and injoy many friends with health , to morrow sicke , and poore , and friends all gone , &c. Gods acting in us , and upon us , is not alwayes as he is unto his : as God is in himselfe unchangeable , ever the same , so he is to his ever the same , however he may seeme to be , Heb. 13. 8. Isa . 45. 7 , 8. 15. with Song 5. 6. Isa . 8. 17. Therefore make a good construction of all that God doth do to thee , his actings in us , or upon us , is the accomplishing of his will , for his glory , and the good of his ; that which I thinke worst for me , may be best for me , however it be , God is good , and good to me , Psal. 73. 1. This I see and say , and injoy in both .

Pray to God , that he may give unto thee the Spirit of wisdome and revelation in the knowledge of him , that yee may know what is the hope of your calling , Eph. 1. 17 , 18 , 19. Say unto my soule , I am thy salvation , Psal. 35. 3. I beseech thee shew me thy glory , Exod. 33. 18. Cause thy face to shine upon me , Psal. 80. 3. Establish , O God , that which thou hast wrought in us , Psal. 68. 22.

Avoyd sadnesse of spirit , and rejoyce evermore , 1 Thes. 5. 16. Sadnesse of spirit hinders us in thankfulnesse to God , also it breeds uncomfortablenesse and unsetlednesse in us , an unchearfull spirit is unfit for duty , for what wee goe about unchearfully , we are soone weary in it , if not of it . When our spirits are calme , united , and chearfull , then we act more comfortably ; and such a frame of spirit is fittest to praise God , sadnesse of spirit fitteth us to yeeld to discouragements , if we be sad , wee injoy not the comfort of any thing ; chearfulnesse is as it were the life of our spirits , chearfulnesse inlargeth our spirits , and fits us to receive happinesse , and to expresse it .

Frequent and wisely improve those whom God hath setled , who are able to direct thee , and informe thee in the knowledge of the grace that is revealed , in which is fulnesse of joy , 1 Job . 1. 4.

Mind and remember that which makes for your peace and joy ; if yee forget your resting place , as Jer. 50. 6. it is no wonder if yee be troubled ; Yee have forgotten the exhortation that speaketh unto you as unto children , Heb. 12. 5. Wee have no present actuall comfort further then we have remembrance . Know , no meanes of themselves are sufficient to quiet and settle thy soul , it 's the work of the Spirit to answer all discouragements , it is God alone that creates the fruit of the lips peace ; peace to him that is afar off , and to him that is neere , saith the Lord , and I will heale him , Isa. 57. 19. It 's God which stablisheth us , 1 Cor. 1. 21. These things I write unto you , that your faith and hope may be in God , 1 Pet. 1. 21. Now the God of peace , give you peace alwayes by all meanes , 2 Thes. 3. 16.

Vse of Exhortation to all that beleeve .

1. To admire the greatnesse and sweetnesse of Gods love in his free grace to thee , it is a mercy to heare of it , how much more to have interest in it , and to injoy it , being possessed of it , Isa. 61.

2. Take thy own portion and treasures provided for thee , Col. 2. 3. and ever live in the eternall love of God in Christ to thee , this object is sweet , s●ll , durable , sufficient to satisfie thee at all times , rest satisfied in Christ .

3. Dedicate thy selfe , and all thou hast freely to him , who gave himselfe fully and freely for thee , who suffered , yea dyed so freely for thee . Oh how should this love ingage our hearts to walke with God , to be holy as he is holy , &c. yea doe all , and suffer for him ! for the wayes of the Lord are right , and the just shall walke in them , Hosea 14. 9.

4. Declare to others Gods goodnesse unto thy soule , use meanes that others may injoy the same mercy with thee ; Be yee mercifull , as he is mercifull , forgive and give unto others soules or bodies freely : for so thou hast received .

5. Be content with thy estate , inward or outward , though many crosses and miseries attend thee ; for if God be enough ( as he is ) thou hast enough ; oh let not many nor great troubles , inward or outward , dismay thee , 1 Cor. 10. 13. for though they may seeme long , yet they cannot last long : The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly , Rom. 16. 20. Loe I come quickly , Rev. 22. 20.

6. As Christ is all thy happinesse , so let him be all thy comfort , and the supply of all thy wants , expect all you need and can desire , yea that God can give , that is for thy good , it is certaine thou shalt have all thou needest , Psal. 34. 10. Seeing he hath freely given us his Sonne , how shall he not with him give us all things freely ? Rom. 8. 32.

7. Watch and pray , lest yee ( fall into temptation , and ) abuse this favour , and turne this grace into wantonnesse .

8. Stand fast in this libertie of Christ , in which he hath made you free , as Gal. 5. 1.

9. Rejoyce alwayes , evermore , and let thy joy be full in God thy portion ; They shall rejoyce in their portion , Isa. 61. 7.

10. Be wonderfully thankfull to God for all his exceeding grace and mercy unto thee , in that he hath given thee beautie for ashes , and everlasting joy shall be to thee , Isa. 61. 3. 7.

2. Vse of Comfort and Consolation to all that beleeve . 2. Vse .

Oh deare , yea most deare and precious souls , who can expresse your happinesse & glory ? for the Lord hath done great things for us , whereof we are glad , Psal. 126. 3. Oh now the great work of your Redemption is finished to your hands by him whose works are all perfect , Heb. 10. 14. So that there is nothing of this work left for thee to doe . Now thou maist come unto the throne of grace boldly , now all is payd , it 's God that justifieth , who shall condemne ? surely none , Rom. 8. 38 , 39. It 's not sin , nor Satan , nor any thing else shall hinder thy interest in Christ , or injoyment of him , for thy union with the Lord Jesus shall never be dissolved , Christ lives for ever , Heb. 7. 25. and seeing Christ lives yee shall live also , Joh. 14. 19. Therefore thou art not onely happy now , but thou shalt be so for ever , thou shalt receive the end of thy faith , the salvation of thy soule , 1 Pet. 1. 9. Joh. 5. 24. Christ is enough to comfort us in the sight of all our sinnes , and to make us happy in all our miseries . There is a day a coming , which will make amends for all ; in the meane time , make mention of the loving kindnesse of the Lord , and the praises of the Lord , according to all the Lord hath bestowed on us , &c. according to the multitude of his loving kindnesses , Psa. 63. 7. Who is wise , and be shall understand these things , prudent , and be shall know them , Hosea 14. 9.

THE Perfection and happinesse of a Beleever in Christ . Some briefe Observations or Meditations on some part of the 16. Psal. which Psalm is a Prophesie of Christ , as appeares Acts 2. 25. to 35. verse .

Psalme 16.

IN this Psalme appeareth the wonderfull goodnesse of God in Christ , to all the sonnes and daughters of Christ , and the exceeding great and happy estate of all that are in him .

Preserve me , ver. 1. O God ] There is no preservation in any thing , but God .

Preserve me ] Christ in the dayes of his flesh put up strong crys and supplications to his Father .

For in thee doe I put my trust ] there is no trust to be put in any thing but in God .

I put my trust ] Christ as he was man had faith , and it was in God .

Thou art my Lord ] Christ honours the Father in acknowledging him onely ; yet Christ and he are one .

My goodnesse extendeth not to thee , ver. 2. but to the Saints that are in the earth .

My goodnesse ] Christs goodnesse was from himselfe , therefore his own .

Goodnesse ] Jesus Christ is full of goodnesse , Col. 2. 3. Therefore all that Christ hath done is wonderfull , excellent , and meritorious , in this is our happinesse and comfort .

Extendeth not to thee ] Viz. God . God is perfect and infinite , therefore he is not capable of any addition of goodnesse . Oh admire his perfection .

But to the Saints , Ver. 3. &c. Those who are Saints , had no goodnesse of their own , Their righteousnesse is of me , saith the Lord , Isa. 54. 17. Christs goodnesse was for the Saints , they stood in need of it .

Extendeth ] It reacheth the Saints , they shall injoy the fruit of it ; there is no place of the earth that is out of the reach of Christ . This goodnesse of Christ was not for every person in the world , but to the Saints that are in the earth .

Saints ] Christs goodnesse made them Saints ; Christ found them no Saints , but wicked sinners ; Oh Saint admire the riches of Christ , and his love to thee ; the Saints goodnesse is in Christ . O soule rest satisfied in Christs goodnesse , which is thine , rejoyce in it , and admire at it , be thankfull for it , walke sutably unto it , and improve this goodnesse against all thy doubts and feares , &c.

To the excellent ] The Saints are excellent to Christ , yea , all of them are alike excellent , beautifull , glorious , unspeakeable , infinite , excellent , with the excellent beauty of Christ , Ezek. 16. 14. They are more excellent then the whole creation of heaven and earth . Christ calls them excellent , and he esteemes them so , Eph. 5. 27. Oh Saint esteeme thy selfe as Christ doth to be excellent in his excellency ; for thy beauty it is perfect through my comelinesse I have put upon thee , saith the Lord God , Ezek. 16. 14. I will greatly rejoyce in the Lord , my soule shall be joyfull in my God ; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation , he hath covered me with the robe of righteousnesse , Isa. 61. 10. O glorious Saint , the world knows not thy worth , therefore it esteemes thee not , yet sleight not thy selfe , because Christ hath made thee excellent .

In whom is all my delight ] Jesus Christ is fully pleased and contented with his .

All my delight ] an infinite delight Christ takes in his .

All ] One Saint is esteemed by Christ to be of more worth , then the whole creation of heaven & earth , those things have none of his delight , the Saints have it all , the quintessence of all fulnesse .

All ] Infinite is the love and contentment that Christ takes and gives to them . O precious Saint , delight thy self in God , rest satisfied with him , in his love , and the delight he takes in thee .

Their sorrowes shall be multiplied that hasten after another God : ver. 4. their drink-offerings of bloud will I not offer , nor take up their names into my lips ] As for the wicked , it is not so with them , they are not in so happy a condition , they shall finde the contrary from Christ , he will not once name their names to God , nor offer their offerings to his Father .

Their offerings of bloud ] Their costly services shall be rejected , they shall finde no entertainment , no acceptāce from Christ , they shall have no peace , nor comfort , no cessation of sorrow , their sorrowes shall never have an end ; their sorrowes shall increase and be multiplied , therefore they are in a miserable condition .

Mine inheritance and lot ] Christs lot and inheritance is his people ; Ver. 5. The Lords portion is his people , Deut. 32. 9.

Mine ] Christ layeth claime to his people , to have an interest in them , Christ is not ashamed to own them to be his , Heb. 2. 11. The Saints are not their owne but Christs , 1 Cor. 6. 19 , 20. 1 Cor. 3. 23. Seeing the Saints are Christs , they are to doe all for him , to serve him , to be at his disposing onely , and not at their own .

Inheritance of my cup ] Christs people are his by purchase ; let this cup passe from me ; they cost a great price , even the precious bloud of Christ , 1 Pet. 1. 19. He that payd so much for his , will not lose them , nor leave them , Heb. 13. 5 , 6.

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance ] The Saints have God for their portion ; The Lord is my portion , saith my soule , Lam. 3. 24. Thou art my portion , O Lord , Ps. 119. 57. The portion of a childe of God is infinite , because God is infinite : God esteemes nothing too much for his , in that he declares himselfe , and all that is his to be theirs . The Saints are infinitely happy in having such a portion , Jer. 10. 16. Happy is that people that is in such a ease , yea happy is that people whose God is the Lord , Psal. 144. 15. A Saints portion can never be spent , nor lost ▪ God is my portion for ever , Psal. 73. 26. None are so rich as a Saint ; the poorest Saint shall never want ; The Lord is my Shepherd , I shall not want , Psal. 23. 1. There is no want to them that feare him , they shall not want any good thing , Psal. 34. 9 , 10. Oh rich and happy Saint , admire free grace , which doth abound to thee ; be content with thy portion , and well thou maiest , for more thou canst not have ; rejoyce in thy portion , for it will be a full supply to thee ; They shall rejoyce in their portion , Isa. 61. 7. Be thankfull for thy portion , for it was freely given thee , Hos. 14. 4. Esteeme not any thing too much for him , who esteemes nothing too much for thee . Be content if outwardly poore , because richer thou canst not be , in that thou art an heire of glory : improve thy portion , and live upon it richly .

Thou maintainest my lot ] God hath undertaken to preserve the Saints , and he doth it ; Christs inheritance can never be lost , because it is maintained by God : The Saints safety and perseverance depends not upon themselves , nor anything below God , but upon God , who maintaines and upholds them .

The Saints are sure to persevere , it is impossible they should fall finally , or misse of glory , because they are maintained by God .

1. They shall never perish , neither shall any man plucke them out of my hand ; and none are able to plucke them out of my Fathers hand , Joh. 10. 28 , 29.

2. For they are in the love of God , Eph. 2. 5. Joh. 17. 26. 1 Joh. 3. 1. 16. & 4. 16. They shall ( unavoydably ) come unto mee , Joh. 6. 36 , 37.

3. God hath promised to preserve them , Heb. 13. 5. For he hath said , I will never leave thee , nor forsake thee .

4. God is faithfull , 1 Cor. 1. 9. 1 Thes. 5. 23 , 24. Jer. 31. 40. And immutable , I am the Lord , I change not , Mal. 3. 6.

5. And onely wise , he knows how to preserve them , Rom. 16. 27.

6. He hath power enough to preserve them , 1 Pet. 1. 5.

7. Because they are in Christ , Ephe. 1. 4. who shall ever live ; Because I live , yee shall live also , Joh. 14. 19.

8. Because they are so united to God , that God & they are but one , Jo. 17. 23. I in them , and thou in me , that they may be made perfect in one , Joh. 17. 23. Oh sweet and happy union that is so intire , reall , full , and eternall !

9. Because God dwells in them , and they in him , 1 Joh. 4. 13. Joh. 17. 23. Therefore they are secure and safe enough , being out of the reach of all the Devils in earth or hell .

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant ver. 6. places , yea I have a goodly heritage ] Christs lot and inheritance is his Saints , who are delightfull and precious unto him , Deut. 32. 9.

I have a goodly heritage ] Christ is wonderfully taken with the Saints comelines , it is a maine part of the excellency of Christs inheritance , that it cannot be taken from him , nor spent , nor lost .

Goodly heritage ] Christ hath a high esteeme of his ; Thou art all faire , my love , there is no spot in thee , Song 4. 7. They are without spot or wrinkle , Eph. 5. 25. to 28. 1 Joh. 1. 7. Psal. 51. 5. Rev. 19. 8. My beloved spake and said unto me , Rise up my love and faire one , and come away , Song 2. 10. Oh happy Saint , have thee a high esteem of Christ , he is satisfied in thee , and be thou satisfied in him , rejoyce in nothing else but him , Psal. 33. 21. and sing praises to him .

THE SAINTS COMMUNION with God by Faith . The life of Faith in effectuall calling , Justification , Sanctification , infirmities , in graces , in means , in time past , in prosperity and adversity , in glorification , and to dye by Faith .

Wherein the life of Faith consists .

IT is in the communion the soule hath with God in Christ , and the soules injoying of Christ in his promises , both spirituall and temporall .

1. Faith in effectuall calling .

It is the soules cleaving and depending upon Christ in his promise for pardon and life , 1 Joh. 12. 1. Joh. 3. 23. Upon such places as these , 2 Cor. 5. 20. Mat. 11. 28. Mat. 5.

2. The life of faith in Justification .

The Lord having spoken peace to the soule , that Jesus Christ hath fully satisfied for all his sinnes , so as they are all done away , and shall be remembred no more , Isa. 53. 5 , 6. Jer. 31. 34. &c. And that as the soule is happy , so it injoyes the comfort of it , and is filled with joy and peace in beleeving , and now the soule lives a life of comfort , chearfulnesse and holinesse , 1 Pet. 2. 24. Rom. 5. 1. So that no sinne nor Satan ( and if corruption increase , and God hides himselfe , or seemes an enemy ) not any thing can cause this soule to let goe the Lord , and cast away its confidence ; Though he slay me , saith Job , yet will I trust in him , Job 13. 15. Rom. 8. 38 , 39. Isa. 54. 7 , 8. & 63. 16 , 17.

Some hold the act of faith is that which God accepts to Justification , but this is a mistake , because it makes Christ inferior to faith , and in ascribing such an honour to faith , they dishonour Christ , for although they doe not exclude Christ wholly , yet in the act of Justification , it gives all to faith . They say , as the act of Adams sin condemned him , so our act of faith justifieth us . Answer ; Adams sinne was enough to condemne him and us , but our faith cannot save others , nor our selves .

They reply , Wee are justified by faith .

Answ. Christ is called faith , Gal. 3. 23. Before faith came : which must be understood of Christ . Wee are justified before God in his sight onely by Christ , Rom. 3. 20. 24. My righteous servant ( Christ ) shall justifie many , Isai . 53. 11. We are not justified before God by faith which is in us , but by Christ , by his bloud ; justified by his bloud , Rom. 5. 9. That which saves us is the bloud of Christ ; Jesus Christ hath loved us , and washed us from our sinnes in his bloud , Rev. 1. 5.

Also wee are said to be justified by faith , because it is the instrument whereby we apprehend and apply Christ our Righteousnesse : by faith wee know our selves to be justified , Rom. 5. 1. Though faith be a grace of God , yet as it is an act , it is a worke , and to be justified by it , is to be justified by a worke of our owne ; for with the heart ( man ) beleeveth , Rom. 10. 9 , 10. That which justifieth us , must be perfect , and so it is no act of ours ; for all our Righteousnesses are as filthy rags , &c. Isai . 64. 6. Not of workes , least any man should boast , Ephes. 2. 9. Before wee had faith , it seemes , wee were not in Christ , or in him and not justified ; for wee were in him before the world was , Ephes. 1. 4. And that at one time God should be angry with us ( as he is with all unjustified persons who are out of Christ , Heb. 12. 29. He hateth all the workers of iniquitie , Psal. 5. ) and that our beleeving should make him to be at peace with us : this is to make God changeable like man , which is contrary to the Word ; for with him is no variablenesse , Jam. 1. 17. I am the Lord , I change not , Mal. 3. 6. Nothing can be charged upon Gods elect , Rom. 8. 1. therefore they are justified , 2 Cor. 5. 19. Those who have no sin upon them are justified , but Christ hath taken away all the sinnes of the Elect , Job . 1. 29. with Isai . 35. 8. 1 Pet. 2. 24. Rom. 6. 6. And to say , wee are not justified before God untill we beleeve , is to say Jesus Christ hath not justified us , which is contrary to the Scriptures , which saith , Wee are accepted in the beloved , in whom we have redemption by his bloud , Ep. 1. 6 , 7. We are justified by his bloud , Rom. 5. 9. Jesus Christ hath loved us , and washed us from our sinnes in his own bloud , Rev. 1. 5. Wee were reconciled by the death of his Sonne , Rom. 5. 9 , 10. A full satisfaction , Heb. 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14. And in this God is well pleased before wee beleeve , Mat. 3. 17. Isai . 53. 11.

Also to say , we are not justified before God , or in his sight , untill we beleeve , is to say , we must adde our work to Christ , to make up our justification before God , and if it be so , then wee in part save our selves ; and if we doe joyne with Christ in this worke , why may wee not joyne with him in the glory of it ? for that may be esteemed one of the greatest parts of our justification , without which we cannot be justified . But this derogates from Christ , and all such tenets we are to hate with execration . For , saith Christ , I have troden the wine-presse alone , and of the people there was none with me , Isai . 63. 3. Wee rather say , if wee beleeve not , yet he abideth faithfull , he cannot deny himselfe , 2 Tim. 2. 13.

What the Lord Jesus Christ hath done for us , is perfect , and is by God imputed to us , so as it is really ours , though it be inherent in another , and by beleeving it , wee know it to be ours , Rom. 4. 24.

First , Not any shall be saved by Christ , but those who were predestinated in him , according to his eternall purpose , Eph. 1. 4 , 5. & 3. 11. And that there was not any foreseene faith or works in any kinde why he chose these rather then others , the will of God was the cause one was chosen and not another ; all was according to the good pleasure of his will , to the praise and glory of his grace , Ephes. 1. 5 , 6. Are we better then they ? no , in no wise , &c. Rom. 3. 9. It was from his great love , wherewith he loved us , Ephes. 2. 4. This love of God was the cause of Gods sending Christ , Joh. 3. 16. and the chiefe cause of mans election and salvation , 1 Joh. 4. 10. Eph. 1. 4. Joh. 17. 23. And that it is impossible for this great love to decrease or increase , because it is infinite , as appeares by Psal. 139. 17 , 18. Jam. 1. 17. God is perfect and infinite , he knows and understands all things that ever were , are , or shall be at once : So he is one pure act , therefore when we were chosen in Christ , wee were justified and compleat in him , God looked upon the Elect to be in Christ before the world was , Ephes. 1. 4. and so he ever lookes upon the Elect : So that they ever appeare to him perfect and righteous as Christ ; for they are one , and are in him , 1 Cor. 1. 30. Yee are in Christ Jesus , and ever shall be in him , being justified freely by his grace in his sight , Rom. 3. 20. 24. God properly was never wroth with Christ , nor the Elect , and therefore Christ could not suffer Gods wrath ; see Heb. 2. 9. So that in respect of their justification , God seeth no sinne in any of the Elect , even before their calling and after . And as it is Gods will , so it should be ours , to set his glory above our salvation , that in the ages to come , he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindnesse towards us , to the praise of the glory of his grace , Ephes. 1. 5 , 6. Ephes. 2. 7.

Secondly , In time the Elect did breake a holy and just Law , and so lay under the curse and wrath of it , which was death , Rom. 3. 21. 23. Christ in our nature for our persons suffered death , Heb. 2. 9. ( the penalty ) to free all the Elect , so that they are now actually justified by Justice ; That he might be just ( Rom. 6. 15. ) & 3. 25 , 26. If God should have justified us , without this propitiation , after he had made this Law , and we breaking it , he could not have been just , but having received this propitiation , he could not be just , if he did not justifie the Elect , That he might be just , and the justifier , &c. Rom. 3. 26.

Thirdly , The soule by faith doth apprehend and apply Christ , and what he hath done , to be for him , by which it knoweth it selfe to be justified in the sight of God , and in the Word , and in his own conscience . Whence flowes joy and peace in beleeving , Rom. 5. 1. because all that beleeve are justified ; And as many as were ordained to eternall life beleeved , Act. 13. 39. 48. So that by beleeving , I know I am ordained to eternall life , because Gods word saith so , and that wee are justified in his sight without the deeds of the Law , Rom. 3. 20. 28. viz. by faith wee apprehend our selves to be freely and fully justified by Christ , without any workes of our own , Gal. 2. 16. without any addition of inherent goodnesse in us , &c.

Fourthly , by our workes in our outward subjection to Christ , to his word , we declare to men ( as farre as they can judge ) that we have the faith of Gods Elect , 2 Pet. 1. 1. Thou , O Lord , knowest the hearts of all men ; but faith without workes is dead to men , and buried also , James 2. 18. 20. If there be no workes , they can see nothing of it ; shew mee thy faith by thy workes ; Yee see then how by workes a man is justified , 21. 24.

In the 1. we are justified in respect of the knowledge and purpose of God in his sight , Rom. 3. 20.

In the 2. we are actually and vertually justified in Justice by the bloud of Christ , which payd the debt : now the full price , the full debt being paid , is it justice in law by God or man , to require it againe ? surely no.

In the 3. wee are justified in our Consciences , by the holy Spirits manifestation and application of Christs righteousnesse unto us .

In the 4. and last , we are justified before men , or unto men .

Object . If it be so , that men are loved of God , &c. before they repent and beleeve , then men may live as they list , &c.

Answ. We are to own and confesse the truth , and not what men of corrupt minds , and base spirits , will say , and will doe : the Apostle saith , If any man sin , we have an Advocate with the Father , Jesus Christ the righteous , 1 Joh. 2. 1. But what if one say , it seemes the Apostle incourages men to sin , to tell them there is an Advocate , who is alwayes heard . And the Apostle saith , Where sinne hath abounded , grace did abound much more , Rom. 5. 20. By the Apostles answer ( it appeares some did say , they might continue in sin that grace might abound ) what shall wee say then , shall we continue in sinne , that grace may abound ? God forbid : how shall we that are dead in sin live any longer therein , &c. Rom. 6. 1 , 2. But this is an old cavill and slander cast upon those that teach the truth , as the Apostle saith it was then in his dayes ; We be slanderously reported , and as some affirme , that we say , let us doe evill that good may come , whose damnation is just , Rom. 3. 8. Their exception is against the truth of God , and therfore we leave them to God to answer and satisfie them . And though all the Elect are freed from the curse of the Law , yet we establish the Law , Rom. 3. 31. We receive the Law from the hand of Jesus Christ to be a rule for us to walke by ; and herein is my Father glorified , that yee bring forth much fruit , Joh. 15. 8. And the Saints injoy sweet priviledges by walking close with God ; see 1 Pet. 4. 14. To him that orders his conversation aright , will I shew the salvation of God , Psal. 50. 23. God sheddeth his love into the hearts of his ( in his time and measure ) which love so constraines them , that they cannot choose but love God againe for his great love , Rom. 5. 5. Ephes. 4. 6. 2 Cor. 5. 14. Which love as it is apprehended by them , so it constraines them to obey him ; and there is no faith true , but that which workes by love , Gal. 5. 6. and to all that love God , his commandements are not grievous , Joh. 14. 15. 1 Joh. 5. 1. 3. And God hath chosen us that wee should be holy and without blame before him in love , Ephes. 1. 4. & 2. 10. & 4. 1.

But this doctrine hath ever been slandred and opposed by Papists , Arminians , and such as they are ; but let those that can see , judge whose lives are most according to the Word , they that hold with it or against it .

3. The life of faith in Sanctification .

This consists in two branches .

The first , is the soules cleaving to God in Christ our Sanctification , which is for my pardon , and peace , and assurance of glory , 1 Cor. 1. 30. Who is made unto us sanctification .

The second , is the soules cleaving to Christ in his promises , to change my nature , clense and renew my heart and life , and to worke all our workes for us , and be a quickning Spirit in us , 1 Cor. 15. 45. I will heale their backslidings , Hos. 14. 5. He will subdue our iniquities , Micah 7. 19. Sinne shall not have dominion over you , &c. Isa. 57. 18 , 19. I have seene his wayes and will heale him ; and heale all thy diseases , Psal. 103. 8. This was Christs prayer , Sanctifie them with thy truth , thy Word is truth ; for their sakes sanctifie I my selfe , that they also might be sanctified through the truth , Joh. 17. 17. 19.

There is much unevennesse in us , it should be a great griefe unto us , that we cannot honour God no more in our conversation , & that our spirits are so much estranged from him as they are , and unto holy and divine things , which should be familiar , and more delightfull unto us . All that are the Lords have received great love from him , which should greatly ingage their hearts , to walke as becometh Saints , in a holy course and conversation , according to the Word of God , every day , and all the day long to injoy God , and obey him according to his word .

Of infirmities .

An infirmitie is such a weaknesse , as when the heart is upright , yet by reason of some impediment it cannot doe the good it would , and doth the evill it would not . Infirmities are the imperfections of good actions . There is an infirmitie which ariseth from some impediment which a man would faine remove but cannot . There is an infirmitie that ariseth for want of growth in grace . A sin of infirmitie is alwayes with griefe and sorrow , and where there is no griefe for it , it is no infirmitie . It is a sin of infirmitie in him who desires to be informed of it , and to be reproved for it , and to know how to leave it , when he is ashamed of it , and will not plead for it , but complaine to God against it , and is grieved & humbled for it , and useth meanes against it . There is no childe of God that is wholly free from infirmities , therefore every beleever is to live by faith in all their infirmities .

4. The life of faith in infirmities .

Which consists in two things .

First , It is the soule cleaving to God in Christ , that he will be to us according unto his promise , a God of love and mercy unto us for ever , notwithstanding all our omissions and commissions , excesses and defects .

Secondly , and that he will supply all our wants for soule or body , as if we had never sinned , according to his Covenant with Jesus Christ , and us in him , that it shall stand fast for ever with him , Psal. 89. 27 , 28 , 29.

For the first , If any man sin , we have an advocate with the Father , 1 Joh. 2. 1. Who forgiveth all thy iniquities , Psal. 103. 3. Whom he loves once , he loves to the end , Joh. 13. 1. I am the Lord , I change not , Mal. 3. 6. Jesus Christ the same , yesterday , and to day , and for ever , Heb. 13. 8. I will make an everlasting Covenant with you , even the sure mercies of David , Isai . 53. 3. Which is confirmed by two immutable things , Oath and Covenant , &c. That wee might have strong Consolation , Heb. 6. 17 , 18. Through the bloud of the everlasting Covenant , Heb. 13. 20. If his children forsake my Law , and walke not in my Judgements , if they breake my Statutes , and keepe not my Commandements ; then will I visit their transgressions with a rod , and their iniquitie with stripes : Neverthelesse , my loving kindnesse I will not take from him , nor suffer my faithfulnesse to faile ; my Covenant will I not breake , my mercy will I keep for him , and my Covenant shall stand fast with him , Psal. 89. 30 , 31 , 32 , 33 , 34. They and our fathers dealt proudly , and hardened their neckes , and hearkened not to thy Commandements , and refused to obey , &c. But thou art a God ready to pardon , gracious and mercifull , and slow to anger , and of great kindnesse , and forsakest them not , Nehe. 9. 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20. In our greatest falls , when the soule is subject to doubt of pardon , consider our God will abundantly pardon , &c. Isa. 55. 7 , 8 , 9. I am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for my Names sake , Isa. 43. 25. And am mighty to save , Isa. 63. 1. With the Lord is plenteous redemption , Psal. 130. 7 , 8 , 9. I have blotted out thy sins , returne unto mee ; for I have redeemed thee , Isa. 44. 22. He knoweth our frame , and remembreth that we are but dust , Psal. 103. 14. If thou shouldst mark iniquities , O Lord , who shall stand ? But there is forgivenesse with thee , that thou mayest be feared , Psal. 130. 3 , 4. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting , upon them that feare him . As a father pitieth his children , so the Lord pitieth them that feare him , Psal. 103. 13. 17 , 18. Thou art a God ready to forgive , and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee , Psal. 86. 5. But thou art a God ready to pardon , gracious , and mercifull , and slow to anger , and of great kindnesse , and forsakest them not , though they dealt proudly , and hardened their neckes , and hearkened not to thy Commandements , and refused to obey , Neh. 9. 16 , 17. He hath not dealt with us after our sins , nor rewarded us according to our iniquities , Ps. 103. 10. He was wounded for our transgressions , he was bruised for our iniquities , the chastisement of our peace was upon him , & with his stripes we are healed , Isa. 53. 6. God hath in wisdome and love left sin in his , to keepe them humble in the sense of sinne , and that wee may know what we are , and our strength , that wee might exercise the graces of the Spirit , faith for pardon , wisdome , watchfulnesse , self-deniall , &c. which we could not doe , if wee had no sinne , and that we might long to be in heaven , where we shall injoy a full freedome from all sinne : and that wee might love and prise Christ more , seeing we stand in such need of him to pardon and heale us , and that wee might daily depend upon Christ against it , and live upon the fulnesse of Christ , which wee should have no need in this kinde , if we could not sinne , and that wee might not scorn nor insult over any , and that Gods power may appeare in preserving a little grace in a soule so full of sinne : and also the power of his grace in subduing so many and so strong sinnes , and that wee might admire that rich grace , that can love such as we are , and pardon our so many and great sinnes .

The use of this is , if it be so , first , expect not full freedome of sinne here , as some dreame .

Secondly , doe not sinne that grace may abound , God forbid , Rom. 6. 1 , 2 , 3 , 8. but in obedience to God , and love to him , use all meanes against it , all thy dayes strive against it in the strength of Christ , the love of Christ will teach thee , and cause thee to doe so .

Thirdly , Be not over-pressed and sunk under it , but live by faith in all infirmities ; say as Paul , I glory in my infirmities , not as they are sins , but because by them Gods power and goodnesse is the more seene , both in pardoning , and healing , see Rom. 5. 20. & 6. 1 , 2. 2 Cor. 12. 9. Rom. 3. 7 , 8. &c. What if I should say , all the Lords are the more happy they were sinners , else how could they have been capable of mercy , and heaven , and union with God , &c. If there were not evill , it would not be knowne what is good ; justice and mercy had not been known , therefore how could ▪ God be knowne ? his wisdome in drawing good out of evill , nor his infinite love in sending Christ to dye , could not have been known , and man could not come to that full happinesse in Christ , if there had not been sin . Sin should not hinder our faith , it is hard to beleeve the pardon of seventy seven sinnes in a day , yet faith is able to beleeve it , and also to keep a sinner from being perplexed in his spirits with any sinne or trouble , so as to hinder the soule from rejoycing in God all the day long : faith looks to Jesus Christ , his bloud , intercession , and obedience , who hath payd all our debts , 1 Joh. 2. 1. and now wee are not under the Law , but under grace , Rom. 6. 15. So that the weakest beleever may say in the middest of all , my imperfections have as much of the love or God , and union with him , acceptation , reconciliation , full and perfect righteousnesse in Christ , to cover all my defects , as the best Saint ever had , and my state shall be as happie as any of theirs , and were it not for Christ , all their holinesse could not helpe them , and they might cry they are unprofitable in all , and had also perished in their sinnes . Can a man be profitable to God , Job 35. 7 ? Surely no ; and what shall hinder me of having as much happinesse and glory in heaven , as the best Saint ? Oh who can expresse the sweetnesse that is in this doctrine of free grace to an humble soule ! and it is wonderfull sweet , and it is a strong tie to God in all holinesse . I know men of base spirits , unbeleevers will catch at what I say , but if they doe , who can helpe it ? the children must have bread , and if such dogs will snatch it , to their perill be it ; as for you who love sin , so as you are not willing to part with your sinnes , that you desire to make Leagues and Covenants with sinners , hell , and death , and the devill , you take incouragement to sin , because God is rich in grace , &c. Oh consider , if yee have hearts , yee are those who turne the grace of God into wantonnesse , yee are still in your sinnes , yee are the dogs , touch it not , it is not for you ; Christ saith , It is not meet to cast the childrens bread to dogs , Ma● . 7. 6. A childe of God is described by a desire to feare the Name of God , Nehe. 1. 11.

1. Those that live the life of faith in infirmitie , they eye Christs sanctification , and injoy comfort in it .

2. There is a harmony between that soule , and Gods command , Speake Lord , for thy servant heareth , 1 Sam. 3. 10.

3. He is not offended at Christ , at any thing he requires ; Blessed is he that is not offended in me , Mat. 11. 6. For this is the love of God , that we keepe his Commandements , and his commandements are not grievous , 1 Joh. 5. 3.

4. He lookes at the word of God for his rule , and his desire is wholly to be ruled by it , he will trust God , and relie upon his word .

5. He eyeth Christs strength in his promise for helpe , and by faith makes it his own , Psal. 46. 6. Surely in the Lord have I righteousnesse and strength , Isa. 45. 24.

6. He will with courage incounter against what ever opposeth God , and contend earnestly for the faith once given to the Saints , Jude vers. 3.

7. He is sensible of good and evill , and layeth to heart his own and others sins , Acts 20. 31.

8. No sinne he commits doth so discourage him , and sinke him , but he can joy and rejoyce in Christ , his joy and sorrow is not legall , but evangelicall , or spirituall , and therefore may be in one Saint both at one and the same time , 1 Thes. 5.

The second branch of this life of faith in infirmities , it is to live upon Christ in his promise , to helpe us against all our infirmities , upon such places as these .

If thou beest in deadnesse of heart , consider , Behold my servant shall sing for joy of heart , Isai . 65. 14. In thy Name shall they rejoyce all the day , Psal. 89. 16.

In dumbnesse , consider , The tongue of the dumbe shall sing , &c. Isa. 35. 36. The mouth of the righteous shall speake wisdome , and his tongue talkes of judgement , Psal. 37. 30.

In forgetfulnesse ; The Spirit shall bring all things into your remembrance , Joh. 14. 26.

When thou art in feare of want , consider , There is no want to them that feare him , Psal. 34. 9. Trust in the Lord , and doe good , and verily thou shalt be fed , Psal. 37. 3. Seeke yee first the kingdome of God , and his righteousnesse , and all things else shall be added unto you , Mat. 6. 34. Take no thought , for to morrow shall take thought for it selfe , sufficient to the day is the evill thereof . Take no thought for your life , what yee shall eate , or what yee shall drinke , nor yet for your body , what yee shall put on : is not the life more then meate , and the body then rayment ? Behold the fowles of the ayre , they neither sow nor reape , nor gather into barnes , yet God feedeth them , are yee not much better then they , O yee of little faith ? Which of you by taking thought can adde one oubit unto his stature ? Take no thought ( for after these things seek the Gentiles ) you heavenly Father knoweth that yee have need of these things , Mat. 6. 25. to the end ; see Rom. 8. 32. Luk. 12. 15. Cast all your care upon him , for he careth for you , be carefull for nothing ; but in every thing , let your requests he made known to God with thankesgiving , Phil. 4. 6. 1 Pet. 5. 7. Let your conversation be without covetousnesse , and be content with such things as yee have ; for he hath said , I will never leave thee , nor forsake thee , Heb. 13. 5.

In thy ignorance , consider , Wee have such an high Priest as can have compassion on the ignorant , Heb. 5. 2. If any want wisdome , let him aske it of God , who gives liberally , and it shall be given him , but let him aske in faith , without wavering , Jam. 1. 5.

Having fallen into passion , to keepe thee from sinking under it , consider what the Apostles said , Wee are also men of like passions with you , Acts 14. 15. Elias was a man subject to the like passions as we are , &c. Jam. 5. 17. And so of all other infirmities ; He will heale all thy diseases , &c. Psal. 103. 8. If wee did live in Christ by faith more , our infirmities would be lesse .

For a supply of all wants ; My God shall supply all you need , according to his riches by Christ Jesus , Phil. 4. 6. 19. Christ is able , and will supply all our wants .

5. The life of faith for graces , and in the exercise of them .

To beleeve ; They shall trust in the Name of the Lord , Zeph. 3. 12. This is his Commandment , that yee should beleeve on the Name of his Sonne Jesus Christ , 1 Joh. 3. 23.

To increase in faith ; They shall grow from faith to faith , Rom. 1. 17.

To live by faith ; The just shall live by faith , Rom. 1. 17.

To continue in the faith ; He that beleeves in me , though he were dead , yet shall be live , &c. Luk. 22. 32. 1 Pet. 1. 5.

In exercise of faith ; Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace , whose mind is stayed on thee , because he trusts in thee , Isa. 26. 3. Joh. 11. 25. & 7. 38 , 39. He is a buckler to all them that trust in him , Psal. 18. 30. He that puts his trust in the Lord , mercy shall compasse him about , Psal. 32. 10.

To know God ; Thou shalt know the Lord , Pro. 1. 23. They shall all know mee , Jer. 31. 33 , 34.

To love God ; Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart , Mat. 22. 17. The Lord thy God will circumcise thy heart , that thou maist love him with all thy heart and soule , Deut. 30. 6. I have declared thy Name , that thy love wherewith thou hast loved me , may be in them , Joh. 17. 26.

In loving God ; He that loves me , shall be loved of my Father , and I will love him , and manifest my selfe unto him , and dwell with him , Joh. 14. 21. 23.

To seeke God ; That they should seeke the Lord , Act. 17. 27. Seeke yee the Lord .

In seeking God ; Blessed are all they that seeke him with their whole heart , Psal. 119. 2. The Lord hath not forsaken them that seeke him , Psal. 9. 10. Your hearts shall live that seeke him , Psal. 69. 32. They shall praise the Lord that seeke him , Psal. 22. 26. They that seeke the Lord , shall not want any good thing .

To feare God ; I will put my feare in their hearts , and they shall not depart from me , Jer. 32. 39 , 40. They shall feare the Lord and his goodnesse in the latter dayes , Hosea 3. 5.

In fearing God ; The Lord takes pleasure in them that feare him , Psal. 147. 11. He that feares the Lord , him shall he teach the way that he shall choose , Psal. 25. 12. There is no want to them that feare him , ( viz. feare lest they sinne against him ) Psal. 34. 9. He will blesse them that feare the Lord , both small and great , Psal. 115. 13.

To hope in God .

In hoping in God ; The Lord takes pleasure in those that hope in his mercy , Ps. 147. 11. Wee are saved by hope , Rom. 8. 24. Happy is he whose hope is in the Lord , Ps. 146. 5. Be of good courage , he shall strengthen your hearts , all yee that hope in the Lord , Ps. 31. 24.

To waite on God ; Waite , I say , on the Lord , and he shall strengthen thy heart , Psal. 27. 14.

In waiting on God ; They shall not be ashamed that waite for me : Blessed are they that waite for him . Since the beginning of the world , men have not heard , nor perceived by the eare , neither hath the eye seene , O God , besides thee , what he hath prepared for them that waite for him , Isa. 49. 23. Isa. 30. 18. 1 Cor. 2. 9.

To delight and rejoyce in God ; Thou shalt have thy delight in the Almightie : thou shalt rejoyce in God ; in thy Name shall they rejoyce all the day : our hearts shall rejoyce in him , Isa. 41. 16. Psal. 89. 16. Psal. 33. 21.

To praise God ; The living , he shall praise thee ; daily shall he be praised ; they shall praise the Lord : who so offereth mee praise , glorifieth me , Isa. 38. 19. Psal. 72. 15. Psal. 63. 3. Psal. 22. 26. Psal. 50. 23.

To injoy peace with God ; Let him take hold on my strength , that he may make peace with me , and he shall make peace with me , Isa. 27. 5.

To love the Saints ; This is his Commandement , that we should love one another , 1 Joh. 3. 23. Little children , love one another ; see that yee love one another with a pure heart fervently , 1 Joh. 4. 7. 1 Pet. 2. 22. By this shall all men know , that yee be my Disciples , if yee love one another , Joh. 13. 35. 1 Joh. 3. 14.

To love enemies ; Love your enemies , doe good , lend , hoping for nothing againe , and your reward shall be great , &c. Mat. 5. 43 , 44. Luk. 6. 35.

To judge our selves ; They shall judge themselves worthy to be destroyed : Judge your selves , and yee shall not be judged , Ezek. 36. 31. 2 Cor. 11. 31.

To mourne for sinning against God ; I will powre upon them the Spirit of grace , and they shall mourne : Your sorrow shall be turned into joy ; Blessed are they that mourn , ( in faith ) for they shall be comforted , Zech. 12. 10. Joh. 16. 20. Mat. 5. 4.

In poverty of spirit ; To him will I look , saith God , that is poore , and of a contrite spirit , &c. Blessed are the poore in spirit , for theirs is the kingdome of heaven , Isa. 66. 2. Mat. 5. 3.

In desires after Christ , &c. Hoe every one that thirsteth , come yee to the waters and drinke , if any man thirst , let him come to me and drinke , I will give to him that is athirst of the fountaine of water of life freely . Blessed are they which doe hunger and thirst after righteousnesse , for they shall be filled . A bruised Reed shall be not breake , and the smoaking flax shall be not quench . And if there be a willing mind , it is accepted according to that a man hath . By faith Abraham offered Isaac . Of a truth , this poore widow hath cast in more then they all . The desires of the righteous shall be granted , Isa. 55. 1. Joh. 7. 37. Rev. 21. 6. Joh. 7. 33. Mat. 5. 6. Isa. 42. 3. 2 Cor. 8. 10 , 11 , 12. Gen. 16 , 17. with Heb. 11. 27. Luk. 21. 3. Prov. 10. 24. Psal. 37. 4.

To be meeke ; Seeke meeknesse : The meeke will he teach his way ; and will save all the meeke of the earth ; he will beautifie the meeke with salvation , Psal. 25. 9. Psal. 76. 9. Psal. 149. 4.

To be sincere ; Thou Lord , requirest truth in the inward parts : Blessed are the pure in heart , for they shall see God , Psal. 51. 6. Mat. 5. 8.

To confesse our sinnes ; Confesse thy sin . If we confesse our sinnes , he is faithfull and just to forgive us our sinnes , and to cleanse us from all iniquitie : If any man say , I have sinned and perverted that which is right , and it profiteth me not , he will deliver his soule from going downe into the pit , and his life shall see the light , 1 Joh. 1. 9. Job 23. 27 , 28.

To forgive others ; Forgive , unto seventy seven times in a day thou shalt forgive : Forgive , and yee shall be forgiven : If yee forgive men their trespasses , your heavenly Father will forgive your trespasses against him , Luk. 17. 4. Mark . 11. 25 , 26. & 6. 37. Mat. 6. 14. Ephes . 4. 23.

To be a peace-maker ; Blessed are the peace-makers ; for they shall be called the children of God , Mat. 5. 9.

To devise good ; Mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good ▪ the liberall deviseth liberall things , Pro. 14. 22. Isa . 32. 8.

To selfe-deniall ; If any man will come after me , let him deny himselfe , Ma● . 16. 15.

To watch ; But let us watch and be sober : blessed are those servants , whom the Lord when he cometh , shall find watching : blessed is he that watcheth , Ma● . 13. 37. 1 Thes. 5. 6. Rev. 16. 15. Luk. 22. 37. Mat. 24 ▪ 47.

To be patient : Be yee also patient : in your patience possesse your s●ules , James 5. 8. Luk. 21. 9. After he had patiently indured , he obtained the promises , Heb. 6. 15.

To be contented ; Be content with those things yee have , Heb. 13. 5.

To resist the Devill ; Resist the devill , and he will fly from you , Jam. 5. 4.

To resist sin ; Sin shall not have dominion over you , Rom. 6. 14.

Not to be afraid of the world ; Yee are of God , little children , and have overcome them ; and greater is he that is in you , then he that is in the world , Joh. 16. 33. see 1 Joh. 4. 4.

To subdue the flesh ; If yee mortifie the deeds of the flesh by the Spirit , yee shall live , Rom. 8. 13. Live to the glory of God , and your own , and the Saints comfort .

To be mercifull ; Be yee mercifull as your heavenly Father is mercifull : Blessed are the mercifull , for they shall obtaine mercy , Mat. 5. 7. Jam. 2. 13.

To give to the poore ; See that yee abound in this grace also . Cast thy bread upon the waters , and after many dayes thou shalt find it . He that gives to the poore shall not lacke : Blessed is he that considereth the poore , the Lord will deliver him in the time of trouble ; the Lord will preserve and keepe him alive , and he shall be blessed upon the earth ; thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies ; the Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing ; thou wilt make all his bed in his sicknesse , Eccl. 11. 1. Pro. 28. 17. Psal. 41. 1 , 2 , 3.

To give chearfully ; God loves a ohearfull giver , 2 Cor. 9. 7.

To give bountifully ; He that soweth bountifully , shall reap bountifully ; The liberall soule shall be made fat , and he that watereth , shall be watered himselfe : If thou draw out thy soule to the hungry , and satisfie the afflicted soule , then shall thy light rise , &c. 2 Cor. 9. 6. Prov. 11. 25. Isa. 48. 10 , 11. Who so shall give a cup of cold water in the Name of a Disciple ( because he belongs to Christ ) verily , I say unto you , he shall not lose his reward ( in heaven ) Mat. 10. 42. Mark . 9. 41.

6. The life of faith in the use of meanes .

It is the souls cleaving to God in Christ for a blessing upon his Ordinances , or the meanes he hath appointed , that we may receive strength from them , and profit by them . The way of the Lord is strength to the upright , Pro. 9. 29. I am the Lord that teacheth thee to profit , Isa. 48. 17.

Faith beleeves God will blesse his own meanes , seeing he hath appointed them all to this end , therefore all must needs be effectuall . So it is the duty of a beleever to use all constantly , closely , wisely ; despise not them , because they seem weak and silly to flesh and bloud ; know by their use ( under God ) a holy life is preserved , and observe how thou thrivest by them : use all , if by any meanes thy wants may be supplied , Phil. 3. 11. And honour not any of them , as to exclude or sleight another . Some there be that are guiltie herein , men onely prise that themselves like . But oh yee sonnes and daughters of God , love yee and use yee all Gods meanes , they are all for his glory , and thy good ; let not any of them be a stranger to thee , the neglect of one may hinder the fruit of another : the command is to all the Lords to use all , and if we be weake in the use of meanes , what should we be if wee used them not ? let not the difficultie of any dismay thee , consider seriously the soveraigntie of God in all his commands , and what obedience to God meanes , and what God requires , for matter , manner , measure , time , and end .

To pray ; consider such places as these . Pray continually . I will powre upon them the Spirit of grace and supplication : Aske and ye shall have : If yee which are evill , know how to give good gifts unto your children , how much more shall your heavenly Father , give the holy Spirit to those that aske him ? And all things whatsoever yee shall aske in prayer beleeving yee shall receive . What things soever yee desire when yee pray , beleeve that yee receive them , and yee shall receive them . Verily I say unto you , whatsoever yee shall aske the Father in my Name , he will give it you : And it shall come to passe before they call I will answer , and while they yet speake , I will heare , 1 Thes. 5. Zech. 12. 10. Mat. 7. 7 , 8 , 9 , 11. Luk. 11. 13. Mat. 21. 22. Mark . 11. 24. Mat. 16. 23. Isa . 65. 24.

To read the word ; Give attendance to reading : Behold , I will powre out my Spirit upon you , and make knowne my words unto you , 1 Tim. 4. 13. Rev. 1. 3. Pro. 1. 23.

To meditate ; Thou shalt meditate therein day and night . Blessed is the man that meditateth on thy Law day and night : My meditation of him shall be sweet : the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding , Josh. 1. 8. 1 Tim. 4. 15. Psal. 1. 1 , 2. Psal. 104. 34. Psal. 49. 3.

To holy conference ; The mouth of the righteous speakes wisdome : the lips of the wise disperse knowledge : my words shall not depart out of thy mouth : they that feared the Lord , spake oft one to another , &c. They that love it shall eate the fruit thereof , Prov. 15. 17. Pro. 18. 21. Ma●a . 3. 16. Psal. 37. 30. Psal. 71. 24. Isa. 59. 21.

To heare Christ and his Ministers ; Blessed is the man that heares me , watching daily at my gates : Heare and your soules shall live , Pro. 8. 34. Isai . 55. 3.

To be baptized ; See here is water , what doth hinder me to be baptized ? and Philip said , If thou beleevest with all thy heart , thou maiest ; and they went both downe into the water ▪ and he baptized him , Acts 8. 36 , 37 , 38. He that beleeves and is baptized , shall be saved , Mark . 16. 16.

For Saints to receive the Lords Supper ; Doe this in remembrance of me ; it was given for you ; Take , eate , this is my body ▪ Luk. 22. 19. Joh. 6. 58.

To be prepared for duties ; Thou wilt prepare their hearts : If thou prepare thy heart , &c. Psal. 10. 17. Job 11. 13 , 14 , 15.

To obey God ; As soone as they heare of me , they shall obey me , Ezek. 36. 27.

To be fruitfull in season ; His leafe shall be greene , and he shall not cease from yeelding fruit ; he shall bring forth his fruit in season , his leafe shall not wither , Jer. 17. 8. Psal . 1. 2 , 3.

For abilitie to obey God ; The righteous also shall hold on his way , and he shall be stronger and stronger : they goe from strength to strength every one of them ; Surely shall one say , In the Lord have I righteousnesse and strength , my God shall be my strength : I will goe in the strength of the Lord : he gives power to the faint , and to them that have no might be increaseth strength : They that wait upon the Lord , shall renue their strength , they shall mount up with wings , as Eagles , they shall run , and not be weary , and shall walke , and not be faint . I can doe all things through Christ that strengthens me . God gives strength and power to his people , blessed be God , Job 17. 9. Psal. 84. 7. Isa. 45. 24. Isa. 49. 5. Isa. 40. 29 , 30 , 31. Phil. 4. 13. Psal. 68. 35.

In all temptations ; That it shall not be above that wee are able to beare , and for a good issue out of all temptations . There hath no temptation taken you , but such as is common to man , but God is faithfull , who will not suffer you to be tempted above that yee are able , but will with the temptation also make a way to escape , that yee may be able to beare it , 1 Cor. 10. 13. Jam. 1. 12. Rom. 6. 20.

To know the truth ; He that will doe his will , he shall know whether the doctrine be of God , or no : The Spirit of truth will guide you into all truth : The meeke will he teach his way : He that feareth the Lord , will he teach in the way he shall choose , Joh. 7. 17. Joh. 16. 13. Psal . 25. 9. 12.

For direction in all our wayes ; I will direct all his wayes ; I will instruct thee , and teach thee in the way that thou shalt goe . I will guide thee with my eye : For this God is our God for ever and ever , and he will be our guide , even untill death , Isa. 45. 13. Ps. 32. 8. Psal 48. 14.

To reprove others ; Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thy heart ; thou shalt in any wise rebuke him , and not suffer sin upon him He that rebuketh a man , afterwards shall find more favour then he that flattereth with his tongue : The feare of man bringeth a snare , but to them that rebuke him shall be delight , and a good blessing shall come upon them , Levit. 19. 17. Pro. 28. 23. Pro. 29. 25. Pro. 24. 25.

To correct children , &c. The rod and reproofe give wisdome , but a childe left to himselfe bringeth his mother to shame ; but if thou beatest him with the rod , he shall not dye ; thou shalt beat him with the rod , Pro. 25. 15. Pro. 29. 15. Pro. 23. 13 , 14.

For husbands to love their wives ; Husbands love your wives , Ephes. 5. 25. 28. 33.

For wives to obey their husbands ; Wives obey your husbands in every thing ( lawfull ) Ephes. 5. 24.

For children to obey their parents ; Children obey your parents in the Lord , Ephes. 6. 1 , 2.

For servants to obey their Masters ; Servants be obedient to those that are your Masters , Ephes. 6. 5 , 6 , 7.

To obey Gods commands ; In keeping them there is great reward , Psal. 19. 11. Blessed are they that do his commandements , Psal. 19. 11. Prov. 37. 27. Rev. 20. 6. Rev. 22. 14.

To leave false worship ; See 2 Cor. 6. 16 , 17 , 18.

To dwell in Sion , and to injoy the priviledges thereof ; The ransomed of the Lord shall come to Sion with joy : I will take one of a Citie , and two of a family , and bring them to Sion ; They that love his Name shall dwell therein , Isa. 35. 10. Jer. 3. 14. Psal. 69. 36.

To be fruitfull there ; Those that are planted in the house of God , shall flourish in the Courts of our God , and bring forth fruit in old age , and be fat and flourishing : All that see them shall acknowledge them , that they are the seed of them which the Lord hath blessed : They goe from strength to strength every one of them in Sion , &c. Ps . 92. 13 , 14. Isa. 61. 9. & 62. 12. Psal. 84. 7.

That God is present there ; He dwels in his Church ; He walkes in the middest of the seven golden Candlestickes : Thou that dwellest in the gardens , Rev. 2. 1. with Rev. 1. 10. Song 5. 1. & 6. 2. & 8. 13.

For the acceptation of their services there ; see Song 5. 1. with Deut. 12. 5 , 6 , 7.

For his blessing there ; The Lord shall blesse thee out of Sion ; I will abundantly blesse her provision ; they shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatnesse of thy house : blessed are they that dwell in thy house , for they shall he still praising thee , Psal. 132. 15. Psal. 36. 8. Psal. 84. 4.

For protection there ; Thou shalt hide me in the time of trouble , in the secrets of thy Tabernacle , Psal. 27. 4 , 5.

For Saints to agree in the truth ; I will give them one heart , and one way , Jer. 32. 39.

To have joy and gladnesse there ; The Lord shall comfort Sion , and joy and gladnesse shall be found therein , thankesgiving and the noyse of melody , Isai . 51. 3.

In reproaches for Christ ; Blessed are yee when men revile you for my sake falsly , rejoyce and be glad , and leape for joy ; for behold , great is your reward in heaven : in like manner did they revile the Prophets , &c. Luk. 6. 22 , 23. 1 Pet. 1. 14.

In persecution for Christ ; All that will live godly in Christ Jesus , shall suffer persecution : Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousnesse sake , for theirs is the kingdome of Heaven : If we suffer with him , wee shall also reigne with him , 2 Tim. 3. 12. Mat. 5. 10. 2 Tim. 2. 12. Rom. 8. 18.

In losses for Christ ; He that forsakes house , or brethren , or father , or mother , or house or lands , he shall receive a hundred●old here , and in the world to come eternall life , Mark . 10. 29. 30. Mat. 19. 28 , 29.

In imprisonment for Christ ; The Devill shall cast some of you into prison , that yee may be tryed , &c. Rev. 2. 10.

In death for Christ ; He that loseth his life for my sake , shall finde it : Be thou faithfull unto death , and I will give thee a crowne of life , Mat. 10. 39. Rev. 21. 7. Rev. 2. 10.

For the calling of the Jewes ; See Isa. 60. 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , &c.

For the destruction of Antichrist , and all the enemies of the sonnes of Sion ; See Rev. 17. 16. & 18. 8. 21. &c.

7. The life of faith concerning protection from dangers , and for a supply of all wants .

For protection ; He shall give his Angels charge over thee : The Lord is thy keeper : I will preserve thee , and keepe thee : He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous : There shall not a haire of your heads perish , Psal 91. 11. Psal. 121. 8. Isa. 49 ▪ 8. Job 36. 7. Luk. 21. 18. Christ prayed , holy Father , I pray thee keepe them from ●●ill , Joh. 17. 15.

To be delivered from the wicked ; The Lord shall helpe them , and deliver them from the wicked , and save them , because they trust in him , 2 Thes. 3. 2 , 3. Psal. 34. 40.

To be delivered from the harlot ; Who so pleaseth God , shall escape from her , Eccle. 7. 26.

To be delivered from unreasonable creatures ; The beast of the field shall be at peace with thee : Thou shalt be at league with the stones of the field , Pro. 5. 23.

If in warre ; He shall redeeme thee from the power of the sword , Job 5. 20.

If in famine ; In famine he shall redeeme thee from dearth , Job 5. 20.

To finde pitie in captivitie ; He made them also to be pitied of those that carried them captives , Psal. 106. 46.

If in water ; When thou passest through the waters , I will be with thee , and through the rivers , they shall not overflow thee , &c. Isa . 43. 2.

If in fire ; When thou walkest through the fire , thou shalt not be burnt , nor shall the flame kindle upon thee , Isa. 43. 2.

If in sicknesse ; The Lord will strengthen thee upon the bed of languishing ; Thou wilt make all his bed in his sicknesse ; and heale all thy diseases , Psal. 41. 3. Psal. 103. 3. Exod. 23. 25.

To be preserved from all evill ; He shall deliver thee in six troubles , yea , in seven there shall no evill touch thee : He shall preserve thee from all evill , Job 5. 19. 2 Thes. 3. 3. Psal. 121. 7.

For clothing ; Take no thought for your body , what yee shall put on , Is not the body more then rayment ? For your heavenly Father knoweth yee have need of these things : Why take yee thought for rayment ? Consider the Lilies , &c. Shall be not much more cloth you , O yee of little faith , Mat. 6. 25. See Psal. 37. 16. Mat. 6. 28. 30. 3● .

For food in famine ; Trust in the Lord , and verily thou shalt be fed : Bread shall be given him , his waters shall be sure , Psa. 37. 3. Isa. 33. 16. In the dayes of famine they shall be satisfied , Isa. 37. 19.

For dwelling ; He shall dwell on high , Isa. 33. 17.

To be hid in a time of danger ; Set a marke upon their foreheads , &c. In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem , Feare thou not , and to Sion , &c. The Lord thy God in the middest of thee is mightie , he will save , &c. Zeph. 3. 16 , 17.

God will remember his ; Thou shalt not be forgotten by me , Isa. 44. 21.

For successe of our labour ; Whatsoever he doth shall prosper : Thou shalt eate of the labour of thy hands : They shall not build , and another inhabit , they shall not plant , and not eate ; They shall not labour in vaine , &c. For they are the seed of the blessed of the Lord , &c. Psal. 1. 3. Psal. 128. 2. Pro. 12. 11. 14. Isa. 65. 22.

If thou be falsly accused ; consider , He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light , &c. Psal. 37. 6.

For a good name ; consider , Pro. 10. 7. Zeph. 3. 20. Isa. 56. 5. Psal. 111. 6.

For children ; Thy wife shall be a fruitfull vine ; Thou shalt see thy childrens children , Psal. 121. 3. 6.

For sleepe ; So he giveth his beloved sleep : Thy sleepe shall be sweet , Psal. 127. 2. Pro. 3. 24. Job 11. 19. Zeph. 3. 13.

For a supply of all we need ; My God shall supply all your needs , Phil. 4. 9. 6.

If in prospericie ; consider Jer. 29. 5 , 6. These things yee may have , and use them while they last , and while God sees good we shall not meet with any change , but change or no change , God will never change , but be to us ever the same , Heb. 13. 5 , 6.

8. The life of faith in adversitie .

Which is for the soule to submit to God , and to be contented to be in a hard or low condition , if God so order it , and to be fitted to say , as Jesus Christ did ; The cup which my Father hath given me , shall I not drinke it ? Joh. 18. 11. see Phil. 4. 11 , 12. And as Jesus Christ had not any trouble , nor not an houre sooner then God predestinated , Job . 8. 20. so ought we to beleeve , that all trouble of what kinde soever , shall not , nor cannot come unto us , untill the Lord see fit to send it , and that as Christ did passe through all , so certainly we shall , and that quickly , Joh. 7. 30. Joh. 16. 33.

In every affliction and crosse that comes upon thee , beleeve and say , it may be the Lord will doe me good by this crosse , Rom. 8. 28. it is appointed of my Father for my good , I stand in need of it ; if need be yee are in heavinesse for a season , 1 Pet. 1. 6. And while it continues with me , the Lord will be both light , peace , and strength unto me , untill the time come ( which cannot be long ) that afflictions , crosses , and troubles , shall be no more , when I shall rest from all ●abour , paine and sorrow .

That God will be with his in trouble ; I will be with him in trouble : The Lord will be a refuge to his in time of trouble , Psal. 91. 15. Psal. 9. 9. Psal. 37. 39.

That the trouble shall not be above our strength ; I will correct thee in measure , Jer. 30. 11. see 1 Cor. 10. 13.

To gaine by afflictions ; God afflicts us for our profit , that we might be partakers of his holinesse , Heb. 12. 11. &c. see Job 13. 23.

For deliverance out of trouble , &c. Many are the troubles of the righteous , but the Lord delivers them out of them all , Joh. 5. 19. Psal. 19. 17 Psal. 50. 15.

For speedy deliverance ; My salvation shall not tarry , Isa. 46. 13.

9. Every day to live the life of faith concerning the time past .

Which is to consider and call to remembrance , and to see God in his dealings to us , ours , and others , both for soule and body ; I have considered the dayes of old , and the yeares of ancient time , Psal. 77. 5. This is to injoy time past , as present . David made this a part of his meditation ; oh how sweet is it to muse of Gods mercies unto us from our birth ; that I should be borne of such as feared God , and so injoy better education then others , or else that I should be borne of haters of God , and instead of good education had bad , and was brought up in ignorance and prophanenesse , and how I have been tempted to desperate sinnes , or healed those breaches , & how strangely God brought us to better places unexpected or undeserved , and how neere ( and often ) we have been to be cut off by death , by sicknesse , casualties , desperate practices by others , and by our selves , and how great bondage we have been in by sinne , being filled with despaire , terror , and wrath , without hope of ever being pardoned , Ephes. 2. 12 , 13. and yet for God to fill my soule with joy & peace in beleeving , Rom. 5. 1. and in how great bondage I was unto sinne , not able to restraine my selfe , and out of hope of ever having strength against such strong lusts , and yet God hath subdued them . Oh great change ! and also how we were convinced of our state of death we are in by nature , and by what meanes . But ▪ if we had been borne in India , or Turkey , or Rome , we should either have never heard of a Jesus , or seene no light , or to no purpose . Also how God hath preserved us in Babylon , and brought us out of it ( if thou beest so ) and preserved us from the errors of the wicked rotten tenets , as Pelagianisme his free will and power by nature , Arminianisme with his free will so by grace , as he may choose whether he will be saved or no , and so under pretence of inlarging Gods grace , robs him of all , to grace himselfe in his indeavours , and sets the crowne upon his own head . So some deny the Morall Law and word of God to be a Rule to them to walk by , and so are lawlesse ; ( and where there is no Law , there can be no transgression ) and now are the last times , in which iniquitie and abominable errors doe abound ( and shall more abound ; that which God hath said shall be , must be , no man nor men can hinder it ) some denies Election and originall sinne , &c. the Lord in mercy open their eyes , I was once wrapped up and sunke in Arminianisme , and had so continued , but the Lord in mercy pulled me out . Oh how sweet should that love be to us , which keepes us from these errors , or brings us out of them ! and the Lord will in his time be full Redemption to all his .

Also consider how we have been freed from many sorrows and sicknesses , which others indure , having little or no rest day or night : and what meanes we injoy for our soules , which others want , ( and it may be never heard of ) and blesseth them unto us .

Also in what straits wee have been in , & how the Lord hath helped us in them , and delivered us from them : and how God hath provided , and doth provide for us , meanes of living , friends and comforts , strangely and unexpected , and how strangely God hath given us good wives or husbands , or so orders it that bad ones sends us to God , or weanes us from the world ; &c. These mercies with a thousand more to us and ours , requires our meditation , to strengthen our faith , and to endeare our hearts to God exceedingly , and to be more inlarged in thankfulnesse , and to sucke sweetnesse in the remembrance of such experiences . Mercies forgot , are as nothing to us , and wee cannot be thankfull to God for them , though they were never so many or great ; Who so is wise , and will observe these things , shall understand the loving kindnesse of the Lord , Psal. 107. 43.

10. Every day to live the life of faith in Glorification .

Which is to behold the rest , peace , glory and happinesse , &c. in heaven which is provided for us , and also to beleeve that God will give us after this life all these things with himselfe , which he hath promised us in his word ; see Acts 20. 23. Acts 26. 18. 1 Pet. 1. 4.

For the resurrection of my body ; He that beleeves in me , I will raise him up at the last day , Joh. 6. 40.

To have a spirituall body ; It is sowen a naturall body , it is raised a spirituall body , 1 Cor. 15. 44. Our bodies shall be more glorious then the Sun in the firmament , because that is but a naturall body .

To have a powerfull body ; It is raised in power , 1 Cor. 15. 43.

To have a glorified body , and like Christs ; It is raised in glory , 1 Cor. 15 ▪ 43 , 44. Who shall change our vile body , that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body , Phil. 3. 21.

To have fulnesse of knowledge ; And to know the love of Christ , which passeth knowledge , and be filled with the fulnesse of God , Ephes. 3. 19. And know even as I am known , 1 Cor. 13. 12.

To have fulnesse of joy and pleasures ; In thy presence is fulnesse of joy , and at thy right hand are pleasures for evermore , Ps. 16. 11. Joy inward , pure , spirituall , full in heaven , wee shall have no misery , no hunger , cold , nakednesse , paine , griefe , wearinesse , but rest , 2 Thes. 1. 7.

To have Rest ; I shall have rest ( 2 Thes. 1. 7. ) without labour : In this Rest , tranquillity ; in this tranquillity , contentment ; in this contentment , joy ; in this joy , varietie ; in this varietie , securitie ; in this securitie , eternitie .

To have life ; We shall also live with him , 2 Tim. 2. 11. Your life is hid with Christ in God , Col. 3. 3. When Christ who is our life shall appeare , Col. 3. 4.

To have everlasting life ; Who shall receive life everlasting in the world to come , Luk. 18. 30. Mat. 19. 29. Joh. 4. 40. Then shall I never die , nor end , being for continuance eternall .

To injoy the presence of God with Saints and Angels ; When Christ our life shall appeare , then shall we appeare with him in glory , Col. 3. 4. Father , I will that they which thou hast given me , be with me where I am , Joh. 17. 24.

To see the Lord as he is ; Beloved , now are we the sonnes of God , and it doth not appeare what we shall be , but we know when we shall appeare , we shall be like him , for we shall see him as he is , 1 Joh. 3. 2. Then shall we see him face to face , 1 Cor. 13. 12.

To behold his glory ; That they may behold my glory , Joh. 17. 24. Sight is higher then presence .

To be transformed into glory ; We are changed into the same image from glory to glory , 2 Cor. 3. 18. This shall be more full in glory ; Then shall wee appeare with him in glory , Col. 3. 4.

To have full communion with God ; Wee shall be filled with the fulnesse of God , Ephes. 3. 19. Union is higher then sight , communion is higher then union , as it flowes from it , full communion is more ; we shall have as much as we shall desire , wee shall be filled with it , wee shall injoy the quintessence of all sweetnesse , fulnesse , goodnesse in God , and shall be raised , inflamed , and ravished with him , and be wholly taken up with admiring and praising him , without any intermission or wearinesse ; this is our greatest good and blessednesse , and the end of our being .

To be for ever with the Lord ; So shall wee be ever with the Lord , 1 Thes. 4. 17. Eternall communion with God . As it is written ; Eye hath not seene , nor eare heard , neither hath entred into the heart of man , the things which God hath prepared for them that love him , 1 Cor. 2. 9. It transcends the utmost expectation of the most inlarged heart ; Wherefore comfort one another with these words , vers. 18. Faith beleeves the promises of glory , and so lives comfortably in expectation of fruition , when faith shall end in vision , our eternall joyes draws on apace ; in the meane time , lay hold on eternall life , let faith beleeve it , and hope expect it , and patience waite for it , to make this life tolerable , bepatient , indure all , it will not be long ere glory come and continue for ever ; for this cause wee faint not , 2 Cor. 4. He that lives by faith in glorification , lives a sweet comfortable life in Christ his righteousnesse , and is fruitfull , sincere , and content .

Lastly , To dye by faith .

Which is to resigne up our soules to God , beleeving death shall be a passage to glory ; When Christ who is my life shall appeare , then shall I appeare with him in glory , Col. 3. 4. These all dyed in faith , Heb. 11. 13. The righteous hath hope in his death , Pro. 14. 32. Blessed are the dead that dye in the Lord ; for they rest from their labours , and their workes follow them , Rev. 14. 13. When I awake I shall be satisfied in thy likenesse , Psal. 17. 15. Why should I feare that I would not escape ? what hurt will it be to me to enter into glory ? I cannot have my happinesse , unlesse I goe unto it .

THE SAINTS DAILY DUTY AND DESIRE . The severall Branches of the Saints daily duty and desire to walke with God every day .

1. WHen I awake , to thinke on GOD , and to be thankfull to him for rest , and sleepe , and preservation , from sin , Satan , and dangers , satisfying my soule with the Lord , craving his strength to walke with him all the day long , reverently and seriously to minde him and obey him .

When I awake I am still with thee , Ps. 139. 18.

I shall be satisfied when I awake with thy likenesse , Psal. 17. 15. see Act. 11. 23.

Commune with your heart upon your bed , and be still , Psal. 4. 4.

It is good to season , strengthen , and perfume our spirits ( if time will permit ) with some sweet thoughts of God , as that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday , and to day , and for ever , Heb. 13. 8. He is not changed . Here is strong consolation in this sweet meditation , My meditation of him shall be sweet , Psal. 104. 34. It is good for me to draw neere to God , Psal. 73. 28. To make him the object and end of all my actions . O that my understanding had a more full , cleare , and glorious sight of him , and a more perfect , inward , eternall , and full communion with him , then should my will and affections be more satisfied and more inflamed with unwearied desires , high and restlesse aspirations after fresh additions of intercourses and communion with him . The sight of God to a Saint is glorious , and the knowledge and often meditation of him will raise and inlarge the soule : Every childe of God hath in him an earnest desire to have communion with him , to injoy his blessed presence , and to see his glory . As the Hart panteth after the water-brookes , so panteth my soule after thee , O God . My soule thirsteth for God , when shall I come and appeare before him ? Psal. 42. 1 , 2. Nor will a seldome communion satisfie them , it must be frequent and full : it is a contempt of God to be willing to live without him , and so much he injoys God as he seriously minds him , and so much as wee desire God , we follow after God , for desire is the soules following of God ; and as God draweth we follow , Song . 1. 4. Unlesse the Lord fix and fasten the heart upon himselfe , it will be fixed on things below , and wander after vanities , and fill both head and heart with them : he that knoweth what it is to injoy God , is sensible of the want of him , and thinkes he can never have enough of him , his soule will faint for him , because nothing lesse then God can content him , Psal. 119. 81 , 82. Jer. 14. 8. Psal. 13. 1. Exod. 33. 13 , 14 , 15. 18. So the soule lives where it loves , and where it loves it lives , and there is nothing more active and stronger then love ; for love is as strong as death , the coales thereof are coales of fire , which hath a most vehement flame , Song 8. 6 , 7.

2. Live by faith . Every day to live by faith , ( in all estates and conditions ) the communion the soule hath with God is by faith , in justification , in sanctification , in infirmities , in graces , in meanes using , in duties , and for a supply of all wants , every day to live the life of faith in glorification .

3. Watch heart . That every day I watch my heart , to keepe it continually still , cleane , spirituall , content , and that I observe warily the first and secret motions of my heart , least I be unawares catched and insnared in sinne , and that I doe not receive any thing without it be warranted in the word of God .

Keepe thy heart with all diligence , for out of it are the issues of life , Pro. 23. 17. Thy heart is deceitfull , take heed of it , consider Jer. 17. 9. Heb. 3. 12. Luk. 6. 45. If wee cease to watch our hearts , they quickly become vaine . Consider how it was with David , 2 Sam. 12. 9. and Peter , Mat. 26. 72. our experience might teach us , that our hearts are worse then wee tooke them to be , when wee are crossed or tempted , wee shew what metall wee are made of : the best have cause enough to looke to themselves ; if one sinfull thought be admitted concerning the sweetnesse and pleasure of sinne , the will is ready enough to accept the motion , consent , forecast the accomplishment , the affections adde heat and strength , the heart travels with iniquitie , and in time by opportunitie sin is brought forth : and delight and custome wraps a man up in sinne , that he cannot get out ; such carelesnesse may cost deare , though the Elect shall misse hell ; Lord , bold up my goings in thy paths , that my footsteps slip not , Psal. 17. 5. Hold thou me up , and I shall be safe ; and I will have respect unto thy Statutes continually , Psal. 119. 117.

4. Watch thoughts . Every day to watch that my thoughts be holy or lawfull , and seasonable , to ranke , order , and confine them within an holy compasse , that I may gaze and meditate on God , his unmeasurable goodnesse , greatnesse , beautie , glory , and to bring under and destroy every wicked and vaine thought and desire , &c.

It is no burden to fix our minds and thoughts on things above , where our life , and joy , and treasure is ; Where your treasure is , there will your hearts be also . The more wisdome leads us on high , the more is our joy , and the more we avoyd the snares below , and the more wee injoy God in the invisible workings , intentions , desires , elevations of heart , with thoughts of sweetest raptures , in which is peace , joy , triumph , searching into the mysteries of grace , in which is light , is truth in its clearnesse , purenesse , fulnesse , in gazing upon the most glorious object , admiring God in his infinite attributes , to contemplate on Gods boundlesse mercy in Christ ; Such as are exercised herein , injoy great sweetnesse and delight , they see and say , as David , How precious are thy thoughts to me , O God , &c. Psal. 139. 17. Such thoughts raise the heart , and make it spirituall , joyfull , and thankfull , willing and serious in all duties , and holy services .

5. Hearken unto conscience . Every day to watch and hearken to the noyse of conscience , that I may prise the peace of it , indeavour to informe it , and to doe nothing that shall offend it : And herein doe I exercise my selfe , to have alwayes a conscience voyde of offence towards God , and towards man , Acts 24. 16. Holding the mystery of faith in a pure conscience , 1 Tim. 3. 9.

6. Watch affections . Every day to watch that my affections be set right , and that they move not without or contrary to my judgement , and that they be set upon right objects , and that they soare not too high , nor descend too low , but according as the object deserves ; meanly affecting meane things , and not affecting corrupt reason , as passion , &c. That my delight be not set immoderately upon any earthly things , though never so excellent , desirable , or amiable , and so to injoy them , as expecting every day or houre to lose them .

Set your affections on things above , Col. 3. 1. 5. Affections are the pulses of the soule , and shew the state of it ; the affections are the motions of the will , and the will is the principall seate of grace ; grace hath its birth in the understanding , but her seate is more principally in the will actually and formally , therefore the will is much to be observed in its tempers , inclinations , motions , which are the affections of the soule : all affections may be comprehended in love and hatred ; the first comprehends desire , delight , joy , hope , these are the acts of love , and these are chiefly to be given to God , wee must make him our trust , love , joy , delight , and our all in all , esteeme and affect all things else under him and for him ; he is all-sufficient , therefore we may well content our selves with him , and to love him dearly , then are the affections set right , when with God wee are sicke of love , Song 2. 5. Forsake not God , who is a living fountaine , for broken Cisternes , Jer. 2. Love is the sweetest affection , it 's pity it should be spent and lost upon vanities . And when we set our affections strongly on things below , it 's a mercy for God to take them from us , to teach us and cause us to take more delight in God himselfe , and those true , unspeakeable , and everlasting delights , prepared for the Saints with himselfe . Surely wee have cause to lament , that we are so ready to set our affections on things below , that they are so strong and unruly , and so hardly subdued , that it is not an easie thing to master our wils and appetites , they so rage and dote so vehemently after vanities : vanitie of vanities , all is vanitie , Eccl. 1. 2.

7. Watch time . That every day I watch and endeavour to redeeme time , because it is precious , to improve it , to know truth , to injoy and obey God , and to serve others in love , redeeming the time because the dayes are evill , Eph. 5. 16.

Also our time is short , it 's but as a thought , a shadow , a dreame , a span long , it is our duty and wisdome to preserve and redeeme time for every purpose and action . Paul improves his time , by the space of three yeares I ceased not to warne every one night and day with teares , &c. Act. 20. 31. Yet we lose many houres needlesly , in sleeping , in trifling , in idle visits , &c. In which time good might have been done to many .

8. Watch senses . Every day to watch the windows of my soule , my senses , as eares , eyes , from unlawfull objects , and lawfull , when I perceive they would suck evill from them , and shutting my eyes and eares , if need be .

He shall dwell on high , &c. that stoppeth his eares from hearing of bloud , that shutteth his eyes from seeing of evill , Isa. 33. 15 , 16.

Thus we are commanded , to take heed , watch , and pray , Mark . 13. 35. so take heed what yee heare . It was Davids desire to God , Turne away mine eyes from beholding vanitie , Psal. 119. 37. Job saw a necessitie to make a Covenant with his eyes , Job 31. 1. For Satan is ready to convey much evill insensibly through these floud-gates of sin ; bad discourse inflames lust ; Davids roving eye caused him to fall foully , and procured him much vexation and griefe ; who could have thought an idle glance could occasion so much mischiefe ? Expect no better fruit in suffering your hearts to run after your eyes ; fancy will take fire before we be aware ; but a foole will take no warning , he will have his eyes in every corner of the earth , Prov. 17. 24. he must and will hearken unto a tale-bearer , Prov. 25. 23. And so he hath his heart filled with anger and revenge , but when he is wiser , he will cry out with shame and griefe , that all is vanitie and vexation of spirit , as Eccles. 1. 2.

9. In outward things . Every day to watch to make some good use , and draw instruction from the creatures and passages of Gods providence , so to mind heavenly things by naturall .

So did Christ upon mentioning of bread , Mat. 16.

These things below make themselves wings , and fly away ; but fly thee , by them , from them , before them .

10. Watch in lawfull things . Every day to watch narrowly with care and heedfulnesse in the use and injoyment of things lawfull , viz. meat , drinke , sleepe , apparell , marriage , visitations , and recreations , &c.

Our nature is prone to excesse herein , and we oft sinne more , and are in greater danger , by lawfull things , then by unlawfull , because wee feare grosser evils more then we do the secret insnarements that attend lawfull things , so that many are deceived , and insnared , and insensibly drawne into many excesses , before we be aware , to the dishonour of God , & griefe of our selves , and others ; the fooles minde was all for his ease and his belly , meate and drinke , Luk. 12. 19.

11. Watch in things indifferent . Every day to watch that I use not indifferent things securely and carelesly , but to have regard to others weaknesses , indevouring that my actions be such as I may defend with a good conscience .

All things are pure , but it is not lawfull to doe things with offence , it is good neither to eate flesh , nor drinke wine , nor do any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth , or is offended , or made weake , Rom. 14. 21 , 22. These words doe prove that wee ought to forbeare the doing of that which is in it selfe lawfull ( if it can be omitted without sin ) in case another is not perswaded of the lawfulnesse of it , and so is offended at it : I grant he takes offence when none is given , for if I doe that which is lawfull , I give no offence ; therefore in being offended it is his fault and weaknesse , yet if I know he is offended with it , and yet shall do it , & he therewith is grieved , &c. I in so doing sin against God and him ; though otherwise I might doe it , yet in this case it is condemned in the Word , and it cannot defend it with a good conscience .

12. Watch against sinne . Every day to take heed and watch against every sin , and that I defend no sinne in my selfe , nor lessen it under no pretence of corruption , temptation , or for the sweetnesse or smalnesse of it ; nor inwardly favour it , but to resolve against all sinne , with the occasions of it , and the appearance of it , to be jealous against it , and fearful of falling by it , and ever to shew some dislike of it , Levit. 19. 17.

Looke we to sin at the first motion of it , consider we the roote of it , and the end of it , and presently looke up to God for strength against it , beleeve and pray against it , and avoyd all the occasions of it : Come not neere the doore of her house , Pro. 5. 8. First , we should be afraid to sinne , because we are commanded to do otherwise by God ; secondly , lest by it we dishonour God , his truth , and servants ; thirdly , lest by it we incourage others to sin ; fourthly , and fill our soules with sorrow , because wee have sinned against so great , and gracious , and loving Father . A sensiblenesse of sinne , and a heart easily touched with remorse for it , may stand with the assurance of pardon of it , and when any hath by reason of frailtie sinned , though it seeme to be in the least measure , abhorre it with the greatest detestation , and cover it not with any excuses or pretenses whatsoever ; see Ezra 9. 2 , 3. Rev. 2. 2.

13. Every day watch the tongue . To watch that my speech be not vaine , and idle , and frothy , but powdered with salt , to take heed of speaking against others , especially such as are the Lords , that I disgrace none , nor insult over any , remembring my own weaknesses , and that I wrest not mens actions and words , but take them in the best sense , so farre as I can , with a good conscience , and without prejudice of the truth .

Idle words are forbidden ; Let your speech be alwayes with grace , seasoned with salt , &c. Col. 4. 6. Neither filthinesse , nor foolish talking , nor jesting , which are not convenient , but rather giving of thankes , Ephes. 5. 4. My tongue shall talke of thy righteousnesse all the day long , Psal. 71. 24.

If you love to finde fault , lay on there where you see most , which will be your selfe , if you can see . Consider , hast thou no unbeliefe , Psal. 31. 22. & 116. 11. Privy pride , 2 Cor. 12. 7. Secret hypocrisie , Psal. 51. 10. Atheisme and thoughts of blasphemy , self-love , self-seeking , self-confidence , Psal. 30. 6. Unprofitablenesse , Psal. 106. 6 , 7. Nehe. 9. 35. Hardnesse of heart , Isa. 63. 17. Blindnesse of mind , ignorance , Pro. 30. 2 , 3. Unruly passion , Psal. 73. 3. 22. Securitie , lukewarmnesse , Song . 1. 6. Abusing lawfull things , Deut. 32. 15. Nehe. 9. 38. Unthankfulnesse for mercies , Hos. 8. 12. And want of mourning for the sinnes of others , Ezek. 9. 4. Isa . 42. 19 , 20. Want of courage for the truth , Jer. 9. 3. Deadnesse , dulnesse , heavinesse , wearinesse , indevotion , distractions , and indisposednesse of heart in holy duties , Mat. 26. 40 , 43. Hast thou no forgetfulnesse , Mat. 8. 18. Inconstancy , Hos. 6. 4. Doest thou walke comfortably in thy Christian course ? Art thou never cast downe , Psal. 43. 5 ? The secret evils in us , might put us in remembrance of our selves , and silence us from insulting and disgracing others for their weaknesses .

14. Observe the frame of my spirit . Every day to observe the passages of my spirit before God in my actions and duties , and expect strength from Christ in the use of meanes to act , and whether I be sutably and inwardly affected with a sensiblenesse of what I want of God , or from God , or thankfull and humble , eying my defects , and with what faith and fervency I seeke God , and observing how God answers my prayers , and wait upon him for an answer of them .

15. Watch to doe others good . Every day to desire and indeavour to doe my dutie , according to my relation and station , to give a good example , religious instruction , loving admonition , seasonable reproofes , &c. using meanes to doe all the good I can to others soules and bodies , with an earnest intention , with all care and deare affection .

See Acts 10. 24. Joh. 1. 40 , 41. If a husband , if thou art a father , or a master , or a wife , or a childe , or a servant , be a friend to friends , and to enemies doe good ; Be thou an example , in word , in conversation , in charitie , in spirit , in faith , in puritie , 1 Tim. 4. 12.

16. Watch to prevent evill . Every day that I stand upon my watch , every moment to prevent evill , and to prepare and receive good , having an eye to observe , and a heart bent to resist all Satans assaults , either from the world or flesh , alone or with others , knowing Satan watcheth to doe me a mischiefe ; and to consider that my fathers eye is upon me , who hath commanded us to keepe his precepts diligently , Psal. 119. 4. Oh that my wayes were so directed to keepe thy Statutes , Psal. 119. 5. I said I will looke to my wayes , Psal. 39. 1. Watch and pray , lest yee enter into temptation , Mat. 26. 41. Watching keeps the soule awake , ir is to have grace in a readinesse for action .

17. Watch against occasions of sinne . Every day that I decline watchfully all occasions of falling from my first love , fervency , heavenly mindednesse , as dead company , formalnesse in religious duties , coldnesse , or neglecting , the meanes , praise of men , profit , outward pompe , mirth , pleasure , ease , outward contentments , that I exceed not , nor sinke not under any of them , but set light by others favours and frownes .

Seeke not your selfe out of your selfe , in the conceits of other men , he that is little in his own eyes , will not be troubled if he seeme so to others , he that is troubled because others words answer not his desires , he shall never live quietly , and he that priseth others praises , he injoyeth neither God nor himselfe .

18. To sympathize with others . Every day to take notice and sympathize with the sorrowes and sufferings of those that are the Lords , and to be content to stand or fall into any sorrow or sufferings with the Church of Christ , to part with estate , friends , libertie , life .

If I doe not remember thee , let my tongue cleave to the roofe of my mouth , Psal. 137. 6. Lam. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5. Chapters .

19. To meditate . Every day to meditate upon God in his goodnesse unto me , and mind what God hath prepared for me in heaven , and how I may be preserved from sin , selfe , &c. and order my conversation aright .

Isaac went out to meditate in the field at eventide , Gen. 24. 63. doe so , or enter into thy closet , Mat. 6. 6.

Consider Psal. 1. 2. & 32. 4 , 5 , 6. Heb. 10. 38. Jos. 1. 8. The book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth , but thou shalt meditate therein day and night .

Meditation is wonderfull sweet and profitable , by it wee winde up our minds from things below , Col. 3. 4 , 5. and injoy God , and thy selfe , and live in heaven while thou art in the earth , refreshing thy selfe with the great varietie of those invisible comforts in heaven , the interest , joy , rest , that thou shalt finde at last : we might meditate of the miseries , frailtie , and shortnesse of the time we have to live here , and how we may prevent sin , beare the crosse , deny our selves , live by faith , be contented in want , grow in grace , escape temptations , keepe a good conscience , and what is my duty to God and man , and-wherein I come short , what mercies I injoy , and how I live by faith in every thing , how I profit by afflictions , or am thankfull to God for his sweet mercies to my soule or body , and a thousand profitable things , in which the soule may finde sweetnesse ; and if yee be risen with Christ , seeke those things that are above , Col. 3. 1. By faith and meditation , keepe thy heart above , to view thy everlasting glory , filling thy selfe with joy , injoying the joyes of heaven , which I shall certainly and quickly injoy , unutterable , unconceivable , and infinite , bottomlesse , boundlesse , endlesse . Oh the ocean of the joyes of heaven , the greatnesse of sweetnesse in so great confluence of all joyes , pleasures , and delights , which shall be for ever , and never have an end !

20. Watch to deny selfe . That I daily deny my selfe , wit , wisdome , carnall reason , learning , favour of men , applause , passion , ease , libertie , and all things for God .

Consider , Luk. 14. 20. 33. Mat. 16. 24. Mark . 8. 34. Luk. 9. 23. It is good thus to crosse our selves , if we could deny our selves , every thing would be easie for us to doe ; for all things are so sure under us , as we are above our selves : in the same measure we are spirituall , or live by faith , so much we deny our selves , such as cannot deny themselves , are not able to indure the troubles and indignities of this world , but will shrinke and fall off in the day of battell , Luk. 14. 28. 31.

21. To be humble . That in all my actions , I be humble , and meeke , sincere , serious , fervent , chearfull .

For humilitie and meeknesse , consider Mat. 11. 29. Sinceritie , Deut. 18. 13. Ephes. 6. 14. Joh. 1. 47. Without faith and sinceritie all is nothing worth . Fervency , Fervent in spirit , serving the Lord , Rom. 12. 11. Jam. 5. 16. Fervent prayer . Chearfulnesse ; Rejoyce evermore , 1 Thes. 5. 16. A chearful and a willing spirit is most sutable and acceptable , wee oft looke not so much what is done , as from what affection it is done , an unchearfull spirit is soone weary , if we be overwhelmed with sorrow , feare , &c. and if we be filled with lightnesse , vanitie , wee are unfit for any service of God .

22. Watch in use of meanes . That I use the meanes to injoy and increase in holy resolutions , desires , purposes , &c. to injoy God , and the things of God for God .

With my whole heart have I sought thee , O let me not wander from thee , Psal. 119. 10. If resolution be wanting , if thou beest forgetfull , sloathfull , thou art like to be a poore Christian .

Oh the strong and restlesse desires , and the unweariednesse thereof after God , of a heart touched with his love , and tasted of his sweetnesse !

23. Watch to joy in God . That every day I rejoyce in God , my union with him , and interest in him , and priviledges , and happinesse by him , &c. and in the exercises of his graces , and his word , and Saints , as the temptations , chiefest joy , and greatest advantage .

I was in his love before the world was , love was the cause he shed his bloud for me , it is his love that preserves me , and crowned with it I shall be to all eternitie .

24. That I scorne none . That I sleight none , nor checke any with their deformitie of body , dulnesse , or weaknesse of wit , or memory , meannesse of outward estate , birth , or smalnesse of gifts , parts , &c. and to pitie those who are still in their sinnes .

Consider , who made the difference between him and thee , see 1 Cor. 4. 7. Job 10. 10. Psal. 39. 13 , 14. 16. Isa. 28. 26. In spirituall things , Ezek. 16. Isa. 43. 25. Rom. 5. 11. 2 Tim. 1. 9. Phil. 1. 29. Rom. 3. 24. Ephes. 2. 10. The free grace and love of God onely maketh the difference , and if God should convert him , he may soone become better then thee or me .

25. To know the vanitie of the creature . Every day to consider the vanitie of these outward things , and the hurt wee receive by them , how wee exceed in our affections unto them , notwithstanding they are not ours , and may in a lesse time then an houre be taken all from us , or us from them , and that we are often distracted and unsetled by them , to the end I may with more content want them , and be weaned from them in my injoyment of them , and so to use the liberties of this life soberly , so as to be bettered by them .

All things below are full of transitorinesse , mortalitie , and change , vanitie of vanities , &c. all is vanitie , Eccl. 1. 2. These things are under the Sunne , Eccle. 2. 7. ( but above is constancy , and eternitie of all excellencies , perfections , and pleasures ) we have no certainty of any thing below , Eccl. 1. 2. 1 Cor. 5. 25. Pro. 23. 4. Luk. 12. 15. Experience makes it appeare , the more men possesse of outward things , the lesse many use and injoy , the more wee love them , the more we are crossed with them , and the more they have , the more they are in want , because of their insufficiency , uncertainty , and perishing nature . Religion oft payeth for mens getting riches , and oft suffers most by them .

26. Watch in solitarinesse . That every day I be well imployed , especially in my retirednesse , and solitary seasons , to prevent needlesse feares , thoughts of the pleasures of sinne , past , present , or to come , lest such thoughts cause sinne upon supposition .

Experience may teach some , that Satans temptations have come more frequenter and stronger , when alone , and that they have then sinned more freely in their imaginations ; oh cursed contemplation , that pollutes soule & body with sensuall filth , Gen. 38. 9 , 10. and renewed guilt ; nor is it good for a weake beleever to affect solitarinesse , Satan is more bold when thou art most solitary , and his temptations then take a deeper impression .

27. Watch to speake for truth , &c. Every day , as occasion is offered , that I earnestly contend for the truth , Jude ver. 3. own it , maintaine it , and those that are unjustly accused , and count it a glory to be reproached and disgraced for Christ and his truth , 1 Pet. 4. 14.

28. Watch to doe duties . Every day to catch at all opportunities of receiving and doing good , shunning evill , and with constancy nourish all good and holy desires , and consider what times we live in , and what they afford , and how I may be most usefull and fruitfull , that I may finish my course with joy .

My beloved spake , and said unto me , Rise up my love , my faire one , and come away , Song 2. 10 , 11. Our sloth , and our corrupt selfe , love , ease , carelesnesse , inconstancy & unsetlednesse hindreth us more then we are aware of , of going to our beloved .

29. Watch against covetousnesse . Every day to take heed , and beware of covetousnesse and earthly mindednesse .

Consider , Mat. 25. 14. Luk. 6. 2. Mat. 6. 25. to the end , Phil. 4. 6. 1 Tim. 4. 8 , 9 , 10. Jam. 5. 1 , 2 , 3. Pro. 23. 5. 1 Pet. 5. 7. Luk. 2. 7. Mat. 8. 20. To avoyd covetousnesse , meditate on such places as these .

Covetousnesse deceives and hurts all , Jam. 5. 3. If we had riches , wee cannot keep them , they shall soone be taken from us , or us from them . Let such as thinke they cannot be happy without outward riches , consider if earth be better then heaven , where there is none of this thicke clay to load themselves withall , Hab. 2. 6.

30. To looke for trouble . Every day to expect trouble and crosses , and looke upon all that befals me , as appointed and ordered by God for my good in his wisdome , love , and mercy , that so I may be thankfull for them , and not fret , knowing nothing can befall me without the will of God , and that it is sent in love , and is best for me , and that God will supply with his all-sufficiency whatsoever I shall need , and that I desire not freedome from trouble , but a free spirit , and an inlarged heart to God in it , and to expresse in every trouble , wisdome , patience , humilitie , comfort , willingnesse , contentednesse , thankfulnesse , and faith in God , and that I indeavour to comfort others in their trouble .

We should not looke to be exempted from troubles , the whole course of a Saint in this life is a life of trouble , and suffering , yea , more then other men , Psal. 73. 5. All our crosses , &c. are Christs servants , they are under Christ , they come and goe at his command , and they are sent to doe them good , and are called backe when they have done what they come for ; therefore be not impatient at them , fret not , Psal. 39. 9. A Saint should be so fixed upon God , that nothing below should move him , so as to disquiet him ; for to say they cannot indure and beare such a crosse o● trouble , is an expression as is unfit and unsutable for a Saint , Phil. 4. 11. 13. Our spirit should be above , and rule and over-rule things below , and not be ruled by them ; a Saint should be under nothing beneath it selfe : if we should rejoyce in trials , &c. inward , outward temptations , desertions , conflicts , outward troubles , and death it selfe , ( is to make us capable of a fuller injoyment and communion with God , Jam. 1. 2. &c. ) how much more should we be content and patient ? 1 Thes. 4. 18. Lord , I will beare any thing , because my sinnes are forgiven me : a conscience so set at libertie , can with ease undergoe a great burden . Bees gather honey of bitter flowers as well as sweet , and cannot we doe so from bitter conditions ? outward bondage is not much to an inlarged and free spirit ; what can doe much hurt , when all is well within ? all is light and easie to him that can deny himselfe .

What God takes away one way , he can give it in another , which will be better ; How ever it be , yet God is good ▪ and good to me , who will ever remaine so to be , and be the same to me . We have his promise , that wee shall not want any thing that is good for us , Psal. 349 , 10. Therefore when I thinke I want , I will not beleeve I want , and that I have what I want , when I doe not see it , when I see not outward things , I see God can give , and I may have the comfort of them without them , esteeme God above all , and set him against all ; what God conveyd before by meanes , he instilles immediately from himselfe ; the immediate comforts are the strongest ; see Joh. 16. 32. and when all forsooke Paul , yet God stood by him ; and so it was with Christ , Psal. 69. 20. Saints that are poore , and under abasement , may be richer in faith , Jam. 2. 5. and have more experience of Gods faithfulnesse , care , and love , and see more of their own hearts , be more humble , more spirituall , and live more upon God , and more weaned from the world , then those Saints who are richer ; the meanest are as happy , and as free from cares as the richest , and their sleepe is as sweet ; therefore take we heed of sin , and then let come what can ; Sin not , to avoyd trouble , for that is the way to bring greater trouble upon thee , for sin defiles , distracts , insnares , and straitens a soule ; where the spirit is inlarged , it is not much troubled at outward bondage , if it be lightsome , outward darknesse will not be burdensome , if the Spirit be sound , it can beare troubles , sicknesse ; nothing can be very ill , when all is well within , what can be grievous to him , whose eye is fixed in heaven , and knowes it to be his owne ? Heb. 12. 2.

We should not looke so much at trouble , or freedome from it , as to God for profit by it , comfort in it , strength to beare it ; oh let no trouble trouble thee , for when God seemes to leave thee , he is neere to helpe thee , when he hides himselfe , he seeth and will provide helpe for thee ; as Gen. 22. 14. He is all sufficient , Gen. 17. 1. and he is faithfull that hath said , all is ours , 1 Cor. 3. 23. And that wee shall not want that which is for our good , Psal. 34. 9 , 10. The same faithfulnesse will make it good ; therefore I shall not want what ever can come , should each Saint say .

31. Watch to shew mercy . Every day as occasion is offered , to shew mercy and pity to others in their misery , to supply their necessities , freely and willingly , according to my ability , and that I be more industrious , and more moderate in expences , to supply others wants , especially the Saints , if it be above my abilitie , with an open heart , hand , house , joyfully and compassionately to supply the Saints necessities : Consider Mat. 5. 42. Mat. 7. 12. They that have no money must sell something to give ; Sell that yee have , and give almes , &c. Luk. 12. 33.

As we have opportunity , let us doe good to all men , especially to the houshold of faith , Gal. 6. 10. Surely wee should desire and indeavour to ease as many mens burdens as we can , it is our duty to be helpfull , and helpfulnesse includes mercy and tender compassion , love , goodnesse , and such like vertues . In lending , and suretiship , men must not be rash , nor hard-hearted , it is a duty to lend to such who make conscience , and are carefull and industrious to pay at the time . I am sorry when I heare how many have suffered in this kinde , it is a sinne to lend to such as have no care and conscience to pay : men had need to have good experience of mens faithfulnesse and carefulnesse , before they t●ust them with much : the experience of many have taught them this : notionall knowledge in this is best .

32. That I grieve not the holy Spirit . Every day to watch that I quench not , nor grieve the holy Spirit .

Grieve not the holy Spirit , Ephes. 4. 30. Weequench and grieve the Spirit , when we neglect the motions thereof , & sleight the comforts of the Spirit , and seek comfort from the flesh , and feed upon lusts , when we spend our thoughts to content the outward man , & use spirituall thing● for carnall ends , or father the worke o● the flesh upon the Spirit , or sleight Gods way , allow of any sinne in my selfe , or others , to plot or contrive sinne , or cavill against any truth , or doe duties in my own strength , omit duty , or sleightly performe it , to neglect or sleight the graces of the Spirit in any , or despise a Saint for his infirmities , and the like .

33. To take notice of Gods mercies . Every day to take notice of Gods mercies to us , and others , and to acknowledge Gods goodnesse for them ; In all things give thanks , 1 Thes. 5. 14.

34. To be thankfull . Every day will I blesse thee , and praise thy Name , Ps. 145. 2.

35. To grow in grace . Every day to grow in grace and knowledge , 2 Pet. 3. 18.

36. Present condition is best . Every day to beleeve my present state and condition of soule and body to be best for me ; We know that all things worke together for good to them that love God , Rom. 8. 28.

37. To cast my care upon God . Every day to cast all my care upon God , in the use of meanes , Phil. 4 ▪ 6.

38. To look for death . Every day to desire to dye , and to look for death ; All the dayes of my appointed time will I waite till my change come , Job 14. 14.

39. To know my selfe . Every day to observe my profiting in Religion , 2 Pet. 3. 18.

40. To take notice of our failings . Every day to take notice of my sinnes , omissions , and commissions , to be humbled by them , and more watchfull for the future against them , and to live the life of faith in all infirmities , as if I had never sinned , living all the day long in the sweet injoyment of the love of God , and so to lie downe in the apprehension and sweet injoyment of it .

Finally , brethren , whatsoever things are true , whatsoever things are honest , whatsoever things are just , whatsoever things are pure , whatsoever things are lovely , whatsoever things are of good report , if there be any vertue , if there be any praise , thinke on these things , those things which yee have both learned , received , and heard , ( from the Lord Jesus Christ , that ) doe , and the God of peace shall be with you .

SOME CONSIDERATIONS against sinne , which are necessary to prevent sinne .

1. COnsider , it 's Gods command that wee avoyd sinne , and subdue it , Rom. 6. The command of God ought to be wonderfull powerfull in us , and over us , and did wee know the majesty and authority of the command of an infinite and eternall God , we neither could nor would doe that he forbids to be done .

2. Know , it 's the worke of God to subdue the least sinne , we cannot do it of our selves , therefore Christ saith , Without me yee can doe nothing , Joh. 15. 5. Yet we are to use the meanes he appoints against sinne , and to strive against it in his strength , and alwayes resist sinne and Satan .

3. Consider sinne in the nature of it , and in the root and fruit of it ; the want of a true sight of sinne , is a cause why men love sinne , and sleepe so securely in it .

4. Consider , sinne is the price of bloud , Mat. 27. 6.

5. Consider , there is nothing in sinne why we should desire it , there is no true sweetnesse in sinne , no true contentment and satisfaction there : the fruit sinne beares is miserable destruction at the best , is wounds , sorrow , bitternesse , shame , &c. I appeale to your experience , what fruit have yee ever found come of ●inning ? did it not fill you with horror , or rob you of peace , or disable you for the service of God , &c. What fruit had you of those things whereof you are now ashamed ? Rom. 6. 21. Pro. 23. 8. Sinne fights against your soules , 1 Pet. 2. 11. it disgraces the truth , grieves the Saints , by it we doe what we can to destroy others , harden their hearts , and hinder them of receiving the truth , incourage men in sinne , and open their mouths against God , and his truth and servants .

6. Be sure you avoyd the occasions of sin , as evill company , Psal. 119. 63. Pro. 13. 20. & 6. 9. places and provocations of sin , idlenesse , carnall joy , excesse in apparell , shut your eyes , stop your eares , take heed to thy tongue , take heed of excesse in eating and drinking , and pampering the body : Some have so pampered their bodies , that they could not rule them , their want herein hath caused them to want no sorrow , and such as avoyd not the occasions of sinne , let them not looke to be preserved from sinne ; Walke circumspectly , not as fooles , but as wise , Ephes. 5. 15.

7. Aske advice of fit persons , and crave the prayers of such as are the Lords , that thou maist withstand sinne , and Satan , and get others to watch over you , that you order your steps by his Word , Psal. 119. 133. Receive reproofe willingly , and profitably , and thankfully .

8. Indeavour to know Satans stratagems , be not ignorant of his enterprises , he useth to double his assaults when he is resisted , that so he might perswade men , the more he is resisted , the more they shall fall into sinne , as if it were in vaine to resist him , but resist and give no place to the Devill , Eph. 4. 27. Jam. 4. 7. If yee yeeld to Satan now , it will be the harder to deny him the next time .

9. Consider your relation and station , art thou partaker of the promises of Christ , Ephes. 3. 10. an heire of Christ , a fellow-Citizens of the Saints , and of the houshold of God , Eph. 2. 19 ? Oh then doe not so dishonor Christ , to take a member of Christ and make it a member of Satan , to Serve sinne , this were a great wrong to Christ ; We were sometimes darknesse , but now we are light in the Lord , walke as children of the light , Ephes. 5. 8. And seeing we are the sonnes and daughters of God , Gal. 4. 6. Kings and Priests to God , Rev. 5. 10. It is wonderfull unsutable for such to sinne , for that were to serve Satan , and doe his drudgery , Eph. 4. 20. Yee have not so learned Christ , Eph. 4. 17. This I say and restifie in the Lord , that yee henceforth walke not as the Gentiles walke , in the vanitie of their minds . Christ gave himselfe for his , that they should be holy , Tit. 2. 14. Rom. 6. 10. see 1 Joh. 3. 2. 2 Cor. 6. 18. Wee were chosen to be holy , therefore I may not sinne , Ephes. 1. 4. Rom. 8. 29.

10. Consider the eye of God is ever upon you , Heb. 4. 14. Pro. 15. 3. & 16. 6.

11. Let the love of Christ constraine you to hate and oppose every evill way .

12. Nourish the motions of the Spirit , Quench not the Spirit , walke in the Spirit , and yee shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh , Gal. 5. 16. Nourish zeale and hatred against every sinne .

13. Examine your selves and wayes daily , Keepe your heart as your life , Pro. 4. 23. Reforme the inside , Job 14. 4. and Satan shall not prevaile .

14. Consider the shortnesse of time we have here to live , our time is short , also the pleasures of sinne are but for a season , Heb. 11. 25.

15. Know your interest in Christ , and profit by affliction , both which destroys sinne .

16. Hearken unto the noyse of conscience , if conscience saith , doe it not , hearken unto it , doe it not , lest conscience be silent , and yee hardened .

17. When the pleasure of sinne is presented unto thee , present to thy thoughts the sting sinne will leave behinde it , with the many evils that attend it , also present to thy selfe , a greater and better pleasure and sweetnesse , which is thine , and that thou , if thou be the Lords , shall injoy for ever with him , oh minde home , and what is there , pleasures for evermore ; set your affections on things above , where your crowne of glory is , 1 Cor. 9. 24. Such as thinke on the supposed pleasure and sweetnesse of sinne are deceived and inshared by it , but give no eare to the lying noyse of sinne and Satan , they have faire pretences for a foole , as Pro. 23. 2. as that you may be saved notwithstanding , or resist it the next time , but oh the deceitfulnesse of sinne .

18. Pray to God earnestly and constantly for strength against sinne , with thankfulnesse for any preservation from sinne : watch and pray at the first approach of sinne , change thy object and fall to prayer , Phil. 4. 6.

19. Beleeve God will give thee strength and subdue all thy iniquities , in his time thou shalt overcome them , be not discouraged , if thou beest sometime too weake , give not over , continue resisting , in due time thou shalt prevaile , beleeve your prayers shall be answered , and that as there is strength enough in Christ to subdue sinne , and that you shall injoy it ; we are never overcome by sinne , but by reason of the weaknesse of faith : therefore above all , take the shield of faith , Eph. 6. 16. Eph. 4. 12 , 13.

20. Apply sutable promises against sinne , consider Eph. 5. 5 , 6 , 7. Rom. 6. 11. Psal. 119. 6. God hath said , Sinne shall not reigne over you , Rom. 6. Do as Mat. 17. 21. The Lord will preserve you from every evill worke , and preserve you till he bring you to glory .

The necessitie , excellency , and benefit of Prayer .

THe Lord our God hath commended Prayer to be a helpe to us in all our necessities , and that we might love it , and improve it to his glory and our good , saying , Aske and it shall be given you , Mat. 7. 7. Call upon me in the day of trouble , and I will deliver you , Isa. 50. 15. Prayer hath great promises annexed unto it , James 4. & 5. Mat. 7. It procures wisdome , James 1. 5. The Spirit of grace is given to such as pray . Luk. 11. 13. It quickens the graces of God in us , it 's a remedy against all evils , Joh. 3. 8. 10. Psal. 107. Prayer is a means to fit us for those good things our soules desire , Jam. 1. 5. Consider Exod. 14. 15 , 16. Jonah 2. 1. 10. It hath healed the sicke , and raised the dead , unloosed chains , and unlocked prisons , and delivered the Saints of old , Act. 12. 5. 7. 11. and of late , and put in persecutors in their places . It hath set free the Lambes , and shut up the Wolves ; we may truly say , the Lord hath slaine Og , King of Basan , for his mercie indures for ever . And Prayer caused the Sunne to goe backe , yea to stand still , Josh. 10. 12. By it we beare great burdens , and are made better by them : understand me of prayer in faith : By it Jacob prevailed with God , Hos. 14. 3 , 4. God delights to heare his pray , Song 2. 14. By it we draw neere to God , and have communion with him , and in a sort are familiar with God , and know his minde , it ingageth Gods power and truth . Prayer is the most universall helpe , it is good for all , and at all times , in all things , and is most easie and ready to the Lords , in all places , in all times . Would you doe good to your brethren , friends , enemies , frequent and improve this spirituall and heavenly dutie .

Concerning the duty of Prayer .

To prayer three things are necessary , 1. A spirituall disposition before ; 2. a spirituall behaviour in , 3. and a spirituall carriage after . The first includes preparation to this duty .

That preparation is a dutie God requires , consider ,

1. God commande it .

God saith , I will be sanctified in them that draw neere me , Levit. 10. 3. Prepare to meet thy God , Amos 4. 12. Prepare your hearts unto the Lord , 1 Sam. 7. 3. Prepared for every good worke , 2 Tim. 2. 21.

2. The Saints have practised it .

Jehosaphat prepared his heart to seek God , 2 Chron. 19. 3. Ezra prepared his heart , Ezra 7. 10. O God my heart is fixed .

Object . This is Gods worke .

Answ. True ; Thou wilt prepare their hearts , O God , Psal. 10. 17. in the use of meanes .

3. There are promises annexed to preparation .

If thou prepare thy heart , &c. see Job 11. 13. see what is promised vers. 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19.

An evill not to doe it . And Rehoboam did evill , because he prepared not his heart to seeke the Lord , 2 Chron. 12. 14.

What preparation is in generall ?

Preparation , it is an holy consideration of God , with whom we have to doe , and how unfit wee are to have so neere communion with him , that our spirits may be composed , and our whole man rightly disposed , craving his strength to inable us to a right performing of this holy dutie .

In particular .

1. For the person , he must be accepted , must be a Sonne , Rom. 8. 15. Also all that pray , ought to put away all wrath , strife , envie , &c. God esteems so highly of peace , that he will have his service stay till it be accomplished , Mark . 11. 25. Mat. 5. 24. Therefore we should take heed , that there be no such distempers found in us by him who knows our hearts , for it will choake conscience , and weaken our boldnesse with God ; If we regard iniquitie , God will not heare our prayers , Psal. 66. 18. Such as love their sins , God loatheth their prayers ; The prayer of the wicked is abomination to God : God looks at the heart . Christ saith , When thou prayest , forgive : Such a forgive not others , pray without life .

2. Prize prayer , have it in that esteeme which God puts upon it , God hath honoured prayer , so that every one that useth it is the better for it ; for every one that asketh receiveth , Mat. 7. 8.

3. Set times apart for to pray , and separate thy selfe to some place where thou maist be alone , and out of the hearing of others , if thou canst , that so thou maist freely powre out thy soule to God without hypocrisie ; for a mans desire he will separate himselfe , Pro. 18. 1. Christ chose a time before day , early in the morning , and one of the places he chose was a Wildernesse , Mark . 1. 35. Sometimes a mountaine , and a garden , and when that cannot be had , he faith , When thou prayest enter into thy Closet , &c. Wee should so pray and worship God , as men set free from all other things . So we need avoyd all occasions of hypocrisie ; Hypocrites stand in corners of the streets , because they love to be seene of men .

4. Before thou prayest , spend a little time , some thoughts concerning what God is , and what may raise thy heart , and incourage thee to draw neere to God . Consider what be thy chiefe wants , lets , temptations , corruptions , also to consider the sutable promises of a supply fits the soule to pray : also to consider what mercies we have received above others , and what cause wee have to be thankfull to God .

5. Prayer requires our ends to be holy , and right placed , as to injoy God , and for grace to obey him : and last and least of all , for such things as chiefly concerne our selves , as peace , &c. If the end be nought , or good , and not right placed , we aske amisse , Jam. 4.

6. Deny thy selfe and come empty headed , hearted , handed , of all that is thy own , that God and his grace may be all in all : emptinesse raiseth our hearts in prayer .

7. Mind thy own inabilitie to doe any thing that is spirituall , and looke up to Christ by faith for strength , eying his promise ; we are no more able to pray or doe any spirituall worke of our selves , then to remove a mountaine at once .

8. Consider God in his attributes , that he is great , gracious , mercifull , slow to anger , &c. and that he is so to thee , and that he is neere thee , yea present with thee ; all in God is ready to helpe his , his ocean of grace cannot be exhausted , spent , his fountaine doth nothing decay , though multitudes draw from it .

9. When thou comest to God , thinke thou canst not have too high thoughts of God , nor too low ones of thy selfe : Dust and ashes , Gen. 18. 27. a worme , corruption , so Job . Thou canst not set God high enough , nor thy selfe low enough ; if we could see our own filth , we should stinke worse then the filthiest carrion in our own nostrils .

10. Come to God with a heart that is large & chearfull , by faith in assurance of person and prayer accepted , hate suspitions and jealousies of God , see Ps. 65. 2. & 7. 7. 4. 7. aske chearfully : such as goe not chearfully to God , know not what a God they go to , say to thy soule , Come , O soule , rejoyce , be chearfull , for thou art a going to thy God .

11. Be abased under thy pride , formalitie , coldnesse , dulnesse , deadnesse , and breake through all impediments to goe to God in prayer .

12. Empty thy selfe of all distractions , cares , and clogs of spirit , that thou maist be free when thou comest to God , hold thy heart close to God , in love , zeale , meeknesse , &c.

13. Observe fit times and seasons to goe to God in , yet prefer that season wherein God and thy own heart sends thee to prayer before a set time , imbrace it gladly and quickly , so sweet a motion of the Spirit , put it not by till another time ; I prevented the dawning of the morning , and cryed , Psal. 119. 147. with Mark . 1. 35.

14. Be sensible of others wants , especially for such as are the Lords , that you may pray with a feeling of their necessities .

15. Pray for grace to stirre thee up to pray , and fit thee with sutable matter , sutable to the occasion , either for the Church , thy selfe , or others , and to enliven us in all , abhorre forme and fashion , pray not in print , they are deadly enemies to spiritualnesse ; pray from an inward feeling and sensiblenesse of thy wants : book-prayers is such a crutch , as it makes them that use it quite lame ; we are not so much to looke to a set order of words , as to a well ordered heart ; weak expressions in uprightnesse of heart , the Lord likes well , but if there be nothing but well framed sentences , God abhorres them .

16. Above all come to God in faith , Rom. 10. 14. How shall they call on him on whom they have not beleeved ? see Heb. 11. 6. Jam. 1. 6. Mark . 11. 24. This is the most spirituall grace to come to God with above all other , no other save this can fasten upon a promise , thou canst not see God without faith ; whatsoever thou needst , beleeve that promise , Every one that asketh receiveth , Mat. 7. 8. Christs incense and odors of his sacrifice , Rev. 8. 4. is for him that beleeves . Faith gives force and life to prayer , it troubles not Satan to make a thousand prayers full of teares , if they be without faith ; according to our faith , so is our prayer , Rom. 8. 38. Faint faith , faith prayers ; prayer without faith is but beating the ayre ; according to thy faith , be it unto thee . Consider Mat. 21. 22. All things are possible to him that beleeves , Mark . 9. 22. Let him aske in faith , saith James , nothing wavering ; that is , in a certain assurance to be heard , and that his request shall be granted , Jam. 1. 6.

17. Read and meditate before prayer , if time will permit , for the better preparing our hearts thereunto . The graces of the Spirit , uprightnesse , purenesse , thankfulnesse , integritie , soundnesse of heart , and the like , these will inable , inliven and fit thee to pray .

These well observed , and God blessing them , will fill thee with heavenly affection , and rid thee of thy own inventions , manner , and ends , &c. Oh all yee sonnes and daughters of the most High , in this fulness go forth to meet your God with joy and full assurance of a supply of what yee need .

Concerning a right manner , and spirituall behaviour in the duty of prayer ; observe ,

1. Fix thy mind and faith upon God in the flesh of Christ , who is God with us , and neere us , else he cannot be comprehended by us , eye the flesh of our Advocate , united to the deity , and hold the eye of thy faith upon it , ( all the while thou art in prayer ) which gives life and strength to prayer , else thy prayer is but a morall devotion , a meere shadow ; by the flesh of Christ so united , we have union with God , and accesse to God , which else could not ; and the more our faith layeth hold upon this flesh of Christ so united to the divinitie , and we also by it , the more the Ordinance imparts Gods goodnesse unto the soule , for whatsoever vertue there is in any thing , it 's conveyed by application , and touching of it ; that whereby wee touch God is our faith , which never toucheth him , but it draweth vertue from him : but that in which our happinesse consists , is our union with the divinitie by Christs humanitie , which is full , and admits not of any degrees .

2. Pray in knowledge , and not in ignorance , Joh. 5. 14.

3. Watch and pray against Satans discouragements , sloath , ease , vanitie of minde , that if it were possible , no vaine thought might come in all the while .

4. Pray as thy present state , condition , and frame of spirit requires .

5. Strive for the best affections thou canst in prayer , & those ravishing , which may carry thee furthest from thy selfe , and neerest to communion with God , and looke to the bottome upon which thy affections stand , as faith , and inward grace , and eying a promise ; serve God with all thy might , courage , & strength , with frequency and fervency , for time , zeale , & intention , long prayers oft dead others affection ; it 's good to pray briefly , and often , as Christ , Mat. 26. 39. Consider what others can beare , minde the time , occasion , and season ; in long prayers , we must take heed of custome , superstition , and ambition , and in short , of prophanenesse and carelesnesse ; whether long or short , you must pray with affection , as joy , desires and griefe .

6. When thou prayest to one in the deity , mind all three , and sever them not , the object of our worship must be the union of the flesh with the Trinitie .

7. Give God all thy heart , and see that thy heart and tongue goe together all the while , and observe when , and in what the heart draws backe , &c.

8. If thou canst , observe Gods order , first , expresse Gods greatnesse , next his goodnesse , and his goodnesse to thee , his large love , and thy ill requiting him ; be thankfull for former mercies , 1 Chron. 15. 13. Seeke and aske spirituall blessings before earthly , &c. If time will permit , confesse thy sins freely to God , with inward griefe , and in faith beg , the Spirit of supplication and mourning , Zech. 12. 10. And let all mourning flow from faith of thy person accepted , and sinnes forgiven , or else all thy mourning and teares are worth nothing , and no better then the howllng of a dog , but that mourning which flowes from faith of pardon , is a sweet grace , and an acceptable sacrifice to God .

In thankesgiving , it is fit we should be as much and as large in it , as in requests , be as ready to be thankfull for mercies thou hast , as to aske new ones , spirituall , temporall , &c. Be thankfull for all , to thee , thine , and others , and thou shalt not be barren , for either matter or manner , wee ought to be more ready to be thankfull , then to crave what wee want , wee should prefer . God before our selves .

In supplication , aske the Spirit of prayer , to pray in the holy Spirit , and in understanding , &c. and aske all graces , and temporall things in faith , and a blessing upon all , and be content to be at Gods dispose in all , and wait Gods time , know if God heareth thee not in that kinde thou desirest , he intends that which is better for thee in stead thereof ; God hath not absolutely promised thee measure of grace , and temporall things in particular , and so sometimes denies them in love to his , because not fit for them , therefore aske with submission .

Adde fervency and importunitie , as one loth to be sent away empty , and let thy earnestnesse be according to the degrees of goodnesse of things prayed for , or of thy necessitie of them . The life of prayer consists in the heat of earnest and fervent desires , Rom. 15. 30. & 8. 16. Psal. 143. 6. Of a cold prayer , expect not more then a cold answer ; if a righteous mans prayer be not fervent , it will not prevaile , Jam. 5. Oh Lord , give me what I come for , cease not knocking till yee speed : what we need wee have in God , and this is ours ( oh sweet love ) turne feares into hopes , complaints into prayers , and thy lamentations into supplications , and Christ will turne thy darknesse into light , and thy deadnesse into life , thy bondage into libertie , and thy weaknesse into strength . Covet the best measure of grace , and rest in that measure God thinks best forthee ; pray often , 2 Cor. 12. 10. see Isa. 26. 26 , 27. Be thankfull to God in prayer for what thou obtainest from God by prayer , and in prayer use that gesture that most befits the duty , and most befits thee for the dutie , weigh it well , consider the weaknesse of thy body , yet abhorre unreverence in prayer , both in soule and body , Acts 7. 60.

Concerning a spirituall carriage after Prayer .

1. As soone as the dutie is ended , especially if inlarged and before others , eye some one or more of thy defects ( in prayer ) to keepe thy soule humble , and also eye what was of God in dutie , to the end thou maist be thankfull , and not dejected and overcome in viewing thy weaknesses and distempers : view all the parts of thy prayer , how it was performed ( if thou canst ) both for matter , manner , heart and affection , and consider what feelings , desires , comforts God gave thee in prayer : take heed thou doest not over-like thy prayers , nor thinke that God dislikes them , because thou seest not what thou shouldst in thy prayers .

2. Renounce all that is our owne in prayer , feelings , hopes , affections , zeale ; as they are the ordinance of God , so I prise them , but as they are acts of mine , they stinke in my nostrils , yet the Lords fire shall heat me , My power is perfected in my infirmity : very gladly will I be under infirmitie , that his power may be magnified in me , 2 Cor. 12. 8 , 9.

3. Watch that Satan wound thee not with thy prayers ; if thou beest in any measure sensible of sinne , thy defects in dutie , Satan is ready to tell thee , if thou hadst the Spirit of God , then shouldst thou have the Spirit of prayer , and if thou hadst it , it should be otherwise with thee then it is , but if the soule consent to what he saith to be true , yee both agree to wound thy faith and confidence in God , not onely for an answer of thy prayer , but of thy persons acceptance . Nay , rather charge all upon thy corruption and want of preparation , & exercise of grace , and be the more carefull and watchfull for time to come , and learne to distinguish between a nullity and a defect ; and in a word , if thou art sensible of thy sin in praying , and art sorry for it , thy imperfection is passed by , and thou doest not pray in fashion . The Spirit of God discovers deadnesse , indisposition , and unbeliefe , and the like in prayer , flesh and bloud cannot discover these , and the Spirit of God onely makes the conscience tender and pliable .

4. Let the frame of thy Spirit be alwayes thankfull and chearfull after prayer , whether thou beest inlarged or straitned , inwardly or outwardly , alone or with others ; for when thou art at the best , thou standst in need of a Jesus , looke upward then by faith upon thy Advocate , and when thy defects are most , and thou art at the worst , will not the same Jesus save thee ? yea surely , and if thou groundest thy comfort upon a right bottome rightly , thy comfort and the cause of it is the same ; because Christ is the same , Heb. 13. 8. And if Christ be thine , shall not he disanull all thy sinnes as well as one , seeing he is able and willing ? But this is the childrens bread , this pearle is not to be cast to swine .

5. If in prayer thy heart have been opened and inlarged , thy faith strengthned , and thy conscience eased , &c. count it a sweet mercy , be thankfull to God for all ; for want of taking notice of Gods goodnesse , and thankfulnesse for it , it is just in stead of light to possesse darknesse , and for feeling to finde deadnesse , &c.

6. Presse after ( what thou hast prayed for ) in the use of meanes , Pro. 2. 3 , 4 , 5. there is the prayer , indeavour , and blessing . As he that makes prayer the end of his prayer , rests in his prayer , and prayes to no purpose : So he that doth not in good earnest pursue with zeale and conscience the grace & good things he prays for , Ioseth his prayer . The Saints pray to put their prayers in practise , & we tempt God to aske that wee use not meanes to attaine , our indeavours must second our prayers , Pro. 20. 4. It is for hypocrites to pray and returne to their lusts with more freedome , as if they intended to have libertie to sinne . Such prayers are odious to God : take we heed that what we build up with prayer , wee pull not downe by our practice , by remisnesse , sleightnesse , frothinesse of Spirit , it had been well if this knowledge had not been experimentall , but a word is sufficient to the wise .

7. Expect and wait patiently for a full answer of thy prayers in Gods time and way , consider Psal. 40. 1. Rev. 3. 10. Hab. 2. 2 , 3. Wee should be loth to lose any part of the answer of our prayers , and that we may wait , wee must first be sure we have a promise that wee shall speed , that wee may feed our minds with the meditation of it : this is necessary , for the time of fulfilling may be long , lest wee faint , Psal. 147. 11. Psal. 135. 6 , 7. Have patience and tary ; that comes hardly , is oft most prized , but lightly come , lightly goe : God knows the fittest season to doe us good , take not a delay for a deniall , many things God hath promised , he hath not set down the time or yeare , but when it 's best for us , let God alone for the time , and ye shall see what God will do . Watch we what event our prayers have , and observe Gods dealings with our selves , and others , both with his , and his enemies : and be thankfull for any answer of prayers . The Saints are often afflicted , that they may often pray , and that often praying , they might pull downe many benefits from the Lord , and returne many praises unto him ; wee sinne against God , and hurt our selves for want of thankfulnesse .

For hearing the Word .

1. Labour to be informed of the excellency and preciousnesse of the mercy to heare the Word , and that no treasure of this world is like it for goodnesse , beautie , and truth , there is nothing like the Word , it informes , convinces , comforts , what comfort is like to this , if the heart be not lost in profits , pleasures , forth and ease ?

2. Prize the Word , 1 Pet. 2. 3. Above all things we prize precious things , and for such as love their lusts , let them consider Ezek. 14. 7 , 8.

3. Heare not for noveltie , &c. but let your ends be good in obedience to God , to know and practise .

4. Deny thy selfe , thy own wisdome , see the Lord in all , be a foole that thou maist be wise ; set God above all , and say , Speake Lord , for thy servant heareth .

5. Come in faith , beleeve God can speake in particular to thee , whether weake or strong , and supply thy wants , Micah 2. 7. to the end , Isa. 48. 17. eye the promise ; If any man will doe his will , he shall know whether the doctrine be of God or no , Joh. 7. 17. Heare and your soules shall live , Isa. 55. 3. Beleeve the promises , meditate on them , plead them , apply them as thy own portion , and rest satisfied and contented with them , they that have the promise are sure enough .

6. Come with a resolution to learne and a heart resolved to practise what God saith ; say as David , Psal. 119. 33 , 34. Psal. 86. 11. And covet earnestly the best gifts , 1 Cor. 12. 31. Consider 1 Cor. 12. 4. & 1 Cor. 3. 4. 22.

7. Come emptie in the sense of want , he filleth the hungry , but the full are sent emptie away , Luk. 1. 51. Pro. 27. 7. Emptie of distractions , and worldly thoughts and affections , Exod. 3. 5. Emptie of prejudice of man , gifts , or meanes , be humble , the humble he will teach , Psal. 25. 9.

8. Pray to God to prepare thy heart , and to open thy eyes , Psal. 119. 18. Shew me thy truth , and blesse it to me , pray that he that speakes may not seeke himselfe , and so rob God , and that he may speake as he ought to speake , Col. 4. 4.

In hearing , take heed to your eyes , eares , hearts , Luk. 8. 18. Ezek. 40. 4.

1. Consider thou art in the presence of God , and consider Job 21. 6. Psal. 16. 8. Acts 10. 33.

2. Attend diligently , Isa. 55. 23. Watch that nothing come between thee and it , sleepe not , wander not , gaze not , Luk. 8. 18. Consider Act. 8. 6. And the people with one accord gave heed to those things that Philip spake .

3. Heare for thy selfe , and mind especially that which most concernes thee .

4. Heare with understanding and judgement , Mat. 13. 13. Mat. 15. 10. Joh 21. 11. Put a difference between truth and error , The simple beleeveth every word , Prov. 14. 15. Take heed what yee heare , Mark . 4. 24. and whom yee heare , and how yee heare .

5. If thou canst , observe the methode and scope of the speaker to helpe memorie .

6. Heare with thy heart and affection , as one that longeth for it .

7. Mixe the Word with faith , beleeve it , obey it , beleeve it 's true , and thine , ● Pet. 2. 3. if tasted .

8. Heare it as the word of God , or else it can doe thee no good , see 1 Thes. 2. 13. apprehend and digest well what Gods soveraigntie of God is in a command , and the tie of obedience of the creature to God meanes ; consider the insolency of the creatures that dare reject the Word of the Lord .

Come buy and eate , Isai . 55. 1. buy gold , &c. Rev. 3. 18 Forsake all , Mat. 19. 27. If thou seekest her as silver , Pro. 2. 4 , 5. Hearken and eate , Isa. 55. 2. In eating is required appetite , chewing , taste , relish , pleasure and delight , Nehe. 9. 25. Let the Word sinke downe , Luk. 9. 44. Hide it in your hearts , Psal. 119. 11.

After hearing .

1. If God hath manifested himselfe any way in his Word , be thankfull , oh that the Lord should reveale himselfe to me , and not unto the world , Joh. 14. 22. Consider Mat. 13. 17. Psal. 147. 20. 1 Cor. 14. 25.

2. Hold fast that thou hast , lose it not in the ayre of the world , let nothing rob thee of it , let memory call upon consciscience , and conscience upon thee .

3. Examine and prove what yee have heard , as 1 Thes. 5. 21. Acts 17. 11. and consider Acts 8. 34. Rom. 3. 8.

4. What good soever thou receivest , give glory to God , not to man , for he is but as an instrument in the hand of God , He that planteth and watereth is nothing , but God it is that gives the increase , 1 Cor. 3. 7. It is not in the graces of men . Also consider Acts 8. 1. with Acts 11. 19. 21. nor learning , for Acts 4. 13. So then God doth all .

5. Muse and meditate on what thou hast heard , Thinke on these things , Phil. 4. 8. Deut. 3. 39. Shee pondered , Luk. 2. 19. Meditation helps memory and affection , and works an inward feeling of it , if God blesse it , but if we meditate not on it , it doth us no good .

6. Apply what thou hast heard to thy occasions , which are many .

7. Practice what thou hast heard , this is the end of hearing , Deut. 5. 1. Mat. 7. 26 , 27. Wee have no benefit by it , if wee practise it not , Jam. 1. 25. God lookes for fruit , if we injoy meanes , Isa. 5. 2. Mat. 21. 34. Luk. 13. 7. Where much is given , much is required , Luk. 12. 48. see Joh. 8. 47. Job . 12. 40. Practice presently ; I made haste and delayed not , Psal. 1. 19. 60. Gen. 7. 23. with 22. 3. Abraham went presently ; that which we put off till hereafter is seldome done . Consider Pro. 24. 33 , 34. Many motions through delay have come to nothing : they were not to stay , but to step in presently as soone as the Angel stirred the water , Joh. 5. 4.

8. Omit not opportunities , for thou knowest not whether God will blesse this or that , Eccl. 11. 6.

Concerning Reading .

To read with profit requires diligence , wisdome , preparation , meditation , conference , faith , practise , prayer . For the first consider Pro. 2. 12. Mat. 13. 54.

2. Wisdome is necessary for the choice of matter , order , time ; for the matter , it must be sutable to our necessities and capacities ; for order , first that which concerns the foundation , and after the building : also order is a helpe to memory and understanding , and for want of order , some read much , but profit little : also wisdome must difference the fittest time to read in respect of other businesse : God hath made every thing beautiful in its time , Eccle. 3. 11.

3. Preparation requires , first humilitie , and a sensiblenesse of our own insufficiency , to teach our selves , and prayer to God to teach us , and to give us sound judgements and good affections .

Secondly , Faith in Christ , for him to open the booke that is sealed , and the heart also beleeving he will blesse his meanes unto us .

Thirdly , a heart prepared to learne , Pro. 17. 16. Such as received the Word with a good & an honest heart , brought forth fruit , Luk. 8. Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a foole to get wisdome , seeing he hath no heart to it ?

After wee have reade , meditate .

Meditation makes that we have read to be our own ; Meditate . Blessed is he that meditateth in the Law day and night , Psal. 1. 2. And unlesse by meditation the judgement be refined and setled , and worke it upon our affections , and lay up what we reade in our minds , all our reading and hearing will come to nothing .

Conference with others , Cōference . who are able to direct us , is necessary to informe us in what we understand not .

The Word must be mixed with faith , Faith . else it profiteth us nothing , Heb. 4. 2. Luk. 18. 18.

The end of reading is to practise , Practise . and the best way to know is practise ; He that will doe his will , he shall know it .

Without prayer we cannot well use the meanes , Prayer nor expect a blessing by them , 1 Cor. 2. David prayed and praised God , Blessed art thou , O Lord , teach me thy statutes , Psal. 119.

He that profits by hearing and reading .

1. He must have his mind turned to Christ , and fixed upon him in his Word , as Psal. 119. 15. Mark . 7. 14. He must beleeve , and he shall know .

2. He must not be wise in his own eyes ; The humble he will teach , Psal. 34. Psal . 119.

3. Pray continually , 1 Thes. 5.

4. Search the Scriptures , Joh. 5. 39.

5. His end must be good , 1 Cor. 10. 31.

6. He must love the Word , Psal. 119.

7. He must resolve to obey , John 7. 17.

Of Meditation .

MEditation is a serious reviving of those truths we have heard , or the administrations of God towards us or others , of that which we know , wee further debate upon it , that both mind and heart being seasoned with the savour thereof ( in applying it to our selves , that wee may have some use of it in our practise ) and be furthered thereby to dutie . In which the memory is exercised to remember some things past , also the understanding gathering some other things , as namely in finding out the causes , fruits , properties , as when a man meditateth on the Word , remembreth and museth on it , so going from point to point , applying generally some things unto himselfe , and wisely examining how the case stands between the Lord and himselfe , in those things whereby he hath his heart thereby stirred up to put some things in practise . The worke wrought in the affections , is that they are framed , either to love or hatred , joy or sorrow , love , feare , according to the diversitie of the thing , with the reasonable part , hath seriously considered of .

Of the excellency of Meditation .

MEditation is a pondering in the heart , a considering , a weighing with our selves ; by meditation we retaine truths , and are inriched by them , and it makes them sweet unto us , by it we ascend up to heaven ; it 's the life of all meanes , the way to knowledge , the mother of wisdome , it refines the judgement , and cuts off errors within and without , it increaseth love , it makes the mercy of God fresh unto us , it is the life of hearing , reading , conference , praying , &c. By it all meanes are made profitable unto us , it reveales truth to us , and acquaints us with our selves , it makes all to become our owne , it removes lets , and settles truths upon our spirit , it breeds good affections , and quickens them , and makes us profitable to others , and makes things easie & sweet unto us , and fires the soule with love , it helpeth the memory , and stirres up affection , and filles us with experiences , and inableth us to apply it to our owne use , and benefit of others . Judge then how usefull this duty is , and what a treasure we forgoe when we neglect it .

Before Meditation .

1. Reade and conferre with reverence and diligence , Psal. 119. Reading the Word fits us to meditate on it .

2. Be sure thou hast fit texts or occasions of matter forelaid , sutable to thy wants , and spirits , provide matter sutable , of all sorts , precepts , promises , &c. Be not barren of fit matter to meditate on , fit for thy necessitie and capacitie .

3. Choose a fit time , the morning is the fittest time for religious duties , and noon , and evening , day and night , Psal. 1. 3. We ought to frequent this duty , for the morning , Psal. 119. 147. Mark . 1. 35. for the night , vers. 148. In the morning our memories are the quickest and strongest , and our selves the readiest to conceive things , our naturall powers being revived , have the greatest libertie ; at night we are more dull and heavie : Idolaters will rise early in the morning to worship an Idoll . Oh that we were so wise to prevent the morning light , Psal. 119. 147. Mary came early to the Sepulchre , Mat. 28. The holy Spirit came upon them in the morning , Act. 2. It was the third houre of the day : Consider Jer. 7. 13. Joh. 8. 2. Mat. 21. 28.

4. Separate thy selfe to this worke ; for a mans desire he will separate himselfe , Pro. 18. 2.

5. Choose a fit place , as for prayer , so for meditation , where thou maist not be disturbed by any thing .

6. Love the Word of God , and meditation will follow , Psal. 119. What we love , we thinke on , love drawes our affections , according to the love we have to any thing , so accordingly is our pleasure , study , and delight in it .

7. Beleeve God will blesse it unto thee .

8. Pray to God to blesse it unto thee .

In Meditation .

1. Looke up to God and mourne for thy estrangement of spirit from holy things , which should be familiar , and bend thy selfe ( after separation of thy thoughts from frothy things ) to consider seriously of the truths set before thee , and looke up to God for strength to resist a hard wandering dead defiled heart , which makes thee weary of the worke of God .

2. Let the Word of God be the object of thy meditation , Psal. 1. 2. Psal. 119. 99. and from generals proceed to particulars .

3. Meditate but of one thing at once , and at one time , and observe order , 1. travell with our memories ; 2. judgement ; 3. our affections , before we come to make use of it in our hearts : after our memories , let thy judgement consider what weight the thing is of , & how it concerns Gods glory , our selves , or others , and whether we have it at all , or in such a measure as we need , and may have ; how we came by it , what are the lets of getting and injoying it , and how they may be removed , what meanes are to be used to attaine it , both for manner , measure , end , time ; and having so done , rest not in overfights , but stirre up and provoke our affections accordingly , and so worke it upon our hearts . Take an instance , when we come to make use of that we meditate of in our hearts and affections , thus put case it be some speciall promise , how happie were I if I could injoy it , what things here below are like unto it ? then proceed to remove all the objections and temptations against it , lay all in the promise , and hold the promise untill thou canst sucke sweetnesse out of it , till faith and comfort issue in thy soule ; if any should do all this , unlesse God adde his blessing , & with his almighty power blesse meanes to us , all is nothing , yet wee must use the meanes .

4. If in meditation , thy minde rove and wander after other matters , as soone as thou perceivest it , sigh deeply to God , and fall to prayer to be established , from whence Satan & our corruptions would draw us , and having desired the Lord to deliver thee from a vaine , light , and frothy spirit , &c. fall to meditation againe .

After Meditation .

1. Wee must ever be mindfull to be humble and thankfull .

2. The more thou meetest with the Lord in this way , let it more incourage thee to frequent it , and make it a great part of thy communion with God , and be as joyfull when God hath blessed it unto thee , as any can be when they finde a mine of gold , or great spoyle .

Directions for the understanding of the sense of the letter of the Scriptures .

1. WHen the word ( one God ) is expressed , the Father , and the Holy Spirit is included , as appeares in Joh. 17. 3.

2. All the attributes or workes of God are proper to any of the three without exception of any of them , so Christ is said to create the worlds , Heb. 1. 2.

3. Repentance in God , notes no change in God , ( who is immutable ) but in the thing or action .

4. The word ( of God ) notes authoritie , sometimes it notes onely excellency , as , Psal. 1. 5. 17.

5. The Scriptures must not be understood against Christ , but for Christ .

6. Whatsoever is truly and soundly collected from Scripture , is to be beleeved and rested upon , as well as that which is expresly written , yet no Ordinance of Christ , nor the administration of it , but it is plainly expressed in Scripture , and depends not upon consequences , much lesse meanes .

7. It is usuall in Scripture to attribute that to the instrument , that efficacy and force which belongs to the Author , as 1 Tim. 4. 16. Rom. 3. 28. & 5. 4. Deut. 5. 22. Heb. 13. That good meanes may be respected , and bad sleighted .

8. In a parable , the minde , scope , and intention of the Spirit of God is to be marked above all , it must be expounded and no further strained then things agree with the principall drift , as Mat. 20. 1 , 2. The scope is , God is not a debtor to no man : straine no parable .

9. We may not interpret Scripture by allegories , unlesse we be able to prove the allegoricall sense by some other place of Scripture .

10. In interpreting Scripture , we must take the sense from the word , and not bring one to it .

11. Comparison of places together , darker with plainer , is the way to understand it . Nehe. 8. 8.

12. There can be but one onely proper true sense of one place of Scripture , which we are chiefly to search after , and rest in ; wee may not make every Scripture speake every thing .

13. The literall sense of Scripture which ariseth from the words duly understood , is the onely true and proper sense .

14. Scriptures must be understood according to the largest extent of the words , except there be some restraint of them by the matter , phrase , and scope of them , ( as the word grace , 1 Pet. 1. 13. ) or by some other place of Scripture it appeares they must be restrained .

15. They must be expounded simply , according to the letter , except necessitie compell to depart from a literall sense to a figurative .

16. Wee must not take a figurative speech properly , nor a proper speech figuratively , Mat. 26. 26 , 27. This is my body , is a figurative speech ; it is a great servitude to take signes for things , of which words be but signes .

17. Where there is a sentence in Scripture , which hath a tropicall or borrowed word , we may not think the whole place figurative , as Mat. 26. 28.

18. That which is said to one , must be understood to be said to all in the like case and condition , as appeares by comparing Joshua 1. 5. with Heb. 13. 5. For of the like things there is the like reason and judgement to be given , let the circumstances be considered wisely .

19. A particular example will afford a generall instruction , when the equitie of the thing done is universall , and the cause common , otherwise not .

20. The Scripture puts upon dead things the person of such as speake , by a fiction of a person , Ps. 19. The firmament speakes , &c. So Rom. 19. 20 , 21. Psal. 98. 7 , 8. By this manner of speech wee are moved to affect the things spoken , and more easily brought to understand them .

21. By bodily things the Scripture leads and lifts us up to divine : thus a hand applied to God , signifieth his working power , so an eye , his knowledge , a heart his will , his foot his presence or government , wings , his care or protection , a mouth , his word or commandement , a finger , his might , and a soule put for the essence of God .

22. The Scripture ascribes the names of things unto the similitudes and representations , as 1 Sam. 28. 14 , 15.

23. That exposition that causeth an absurditie to follow , is a false exposition , Rom. 4. 14. & 10. 14 , 15.

24. The word heart , is commonly put for the soule of man .

25. There is such a necessary and mutuall relation between faith , and Christ the object , that where one of these is expressed alone , the other is included ; Christ onely is the matter of our righteousnesse .

26. The Scripture divers times expresses the antecedent by the consequent , Rom. 9. 33. with Isa. 28. 16. For not making haste in Isaiah , Paul saith , Shall not be ashamed , shame & confusion being an effect which followeth haste .

27. The Scripture useth one word twice in one sentence , with a different signification , Joh. 4. 35. Harvest is taken first for earthly , and in the latter place for spirituall harvest . So the word water in Joh. 4. 13 , 14. First , elementary ; secondly , spiritually , viz. the graces of the Spirit .

28. The word of commanding is often put for wishing , as , Let thy kingdome come , ●hy Name be hallowed , that is , Oh that thy Name were hallowed ; Let him kisse me , Song 1. 1. for oh that he would kisse me .

29. Crying in Scripture doth often betoken a strong noyse outwardly , but inwardly compunction and fervency of spirit and affection , Rom. 8. 15. Heb. 5. 7.

30. Things proper to the body are ascribed unto the soule , as hunger & thirst , to declare the earnest desire of the soule ; because the soule is unknowne unto us , the Scripture very oft speaketh of invisible things by visible , and shadoweth spirituall by corporall .

31. A hyperbole is sometimes in Scripture , this kind of speech expresseth more then can be signified , by the proper acceptation of that speech it increaseth the truth , as Gen. 13. 16. & 15. 5. The meaning is no more then that his posteritie shall be very great , as Gen. 17. 4. so Joh. 21. 25.

32. It is usuall in Scripture to put ( all ) for many , 1 Tim. 2. 3. Mat. 3. All Jerusalem , and Mat. 4. 23. All diseases ; So on the other side , many is put for all , as Rom. 5. 9. And whether all or many is meant , may be knowne by observing the matter handled .

33. Nothing is for little , Joh. 18. 20. Also small and none for few , Act. 27. 33. and alwayes for often .

34. The negative particle ( not ) is often put comparatively and respectively , not absolutely and simply , as Hosea 6. Not sacrifice , viz. rather then , or not sacrifice in respect of mercy , see Jer. 32. 33. So not is put for seldome , Luk. 2. 37.

35. The word ever or everlasting , doe not properly signifie eternitie , in every place where it is used , but great continuance , as Psal. 32. 14.

36. In Scripture the word ( untill ) doth not alwayes exclude the time following , but signifies an infinite time , or untill , viz. eternitie , 1 Cor. 15. Mat. 28. 28. Mat. 5. 26. That is to say , never , and also a certaine limit of time .

37. The copulative particle ( and ) is often when it is not joyned to other matter , as Psal. 4. Ezek. 2. 1. & 5. 1. And so often else-where : Also this particle therefore or then , is not alwayes illative or argumentative , Rom. 8. 1. O● it coupleth words outwardly to that which the Prophet heard inwardly .

38. The particle ( if ) is not alwayes a note of doubting , but of reasoning , as Rom. 8. 31 : Joel 1. 14. Acts 8. 22. Sometimes it notes the difficultie of the dutie , and sometimes the necessitie of the thing , and sometimes it is put for doubtingly , Mat. 3. 14.

39. When a Substantive is repeated or twice mentioned in one case , it signifieth emphasis or force , as Lord , Lord ; secondly , a multitude , as droves , droves , Gen. 32. 16. many droves : thirdly , distribution , as 1 Chron. 16. a gate , a gate , 2 Chron. 19. 5. Levit. 17. 3. a Citie , and a Citie , that is , every Citie : fourthly , diversitie or varietie , as Pro. 20. 20. A weight and a weight , that is , divers weights ; An heart and a heart , divers or a double heart .

40. A Substantive , repeated in divers cases , if it be in the singular number , it argueth certainty , as Sabbath of Sabbath , Lamentation of Lamentation , Micah 3. 4. If it be in the plurall number , it signifieth excellency , as Eccl. 1. 1. Vanitie of vanities , Song of Songs , Cant. 1. God of Gods , Psal. 136. 2. King of Kings , Lord of Lords , for most high and excellent .

41. Repeating of an Adjective , and of a Substantive , sometimes signifies increasing , as Holy , holy , holy , Jehovah , Jehovah , Temple , Temple , &c.

42. A Verbe repeated or twice gone over in a sentence , makes a speech more significant , or else it shewes vehemency , certainty , speedinesse , as to dye , by dying , Gen. 2. And is my hand shortened in shortening , Isai . 30. 2.

43. A Conjunction doubled , doth double the deniall , and increase it the more ; Shall not perceive , Mat. 13. 14.

44. A figurative speech affords matter to nourish our faith , as Mat. 15. 35. 1 Cor. 12. 12. Acts 9. 4.

45. An Ironie , which is when the contrary to that which is spoken is meant , carrieth with it a just reprehension of some sinnes , as Gen. 3. last . Judg. 10. 14. Mark . 7. 9. 1 Kings 22. 15. Goe up and prosper , 1 King . 18. 27.

46. Questions doe sometimes affirme an earnest affirmation , as Gen. 4. 7. Josh . 10. 13. Joh. 4. 35. Gen. 37. 13. 1 Kings 20. 2. Sometimes they signifie a forbidding , as , Why should the Gentiles say , where is their God ? Psal. 79. 10. also 2 Sam. 2. 22. And sometimes they argue affection of admiring , compassion , fault-finding , and complaining , as Psal. 8. 10. Isa. 1. 21. Psal. 22. 1.

47. Confession and yeelding , hath sometime in it a deniall and reprehension , as 2 Cor. 12. 16 , 17.

48. The word , behold , is not used alwayes , or onely to stirre up attention , as the report of some weighty or admirable thing , but most commonly it signifieth a thing manifest and plaine , where men may take knowledge , as Psal. 51. 6. Mat. 1. 23. and often else-where .

49. Doing doth sometimes import beleeving , as Mat. 7. 2. Joh. 6. 40.

50. Negative speeches in Scripture be more vehement and forcible then affirmative .

51. Grammer must give place to Divinitie , because things are not subject to words , but contrariwise .

52. The placing of things before which should come after , and some things after which should be before , is frequent in Scripture .

53. We are commanded to be perfect , viz. in uprightnesse , shining to all duties , for perfection in measure and degree , wee are not capable of in this world .

54. All places of Scripture have this proper to them , that they be interpreted by the matter handled , and phrase , scope , end , which is aimed at , or by circumstances of time , persons , places , also by precedence and subsequence , by conferring Scripture and analogie of faith .

55. Scripture hath allegories , as Gal. 4. 22 , 23 , 24. An allegory is ever to be expounded according to the meaning and drift of the place where it is found , allegoricall senses are not of private motion , but to be followed where wee have the Spirit for our precedent and subsequent , by conferring Scripture and analogie of faith .

56. Numerall words , as , 5 , 7 , 10 , &c. notes not alwayes a certaine time , as seventie weeks of captivitie , &c. yet a certain finite time is put for an uncertaine oftentimes , as , to fall seven times , to forgive seventie times seven , and the like . Also divers numbers be Propheticall , as the number of Daniels weekes , or mysticall , as the number , Rev. 13. 8.

57. The Scripture often in one word saying , uttereth one thing plurally , and many things singularly , as , Blessed is the man , &c. Heare , O Israel , and thou shalt not have any strange God , because God would have every one to take to himselfe that which is meant of that societie and kind whereof he is one .

58. In setting downe numbers , the Scripture is not exact to reckon precisely , as Luk. 3. 23. Act. 1. 15.

59. It is usuall in Scripture , by a part to signifie the whole , as Rom. 13. Let every soule be subject , for every person , man and woman ; and the whole sometimes notes onely a part , Mat. 3. 5. All Judea , that is , a great part .

60. Some wishing speeches be not so much prayers as Prophesies , foretelling what shall be , rather then desiring they should be as imprecations against Judas , &c.

61. The Scripture repeats the same things in the beginning and end of the sentence , as , Psal. 33. 10. It is done by way of explication , sometimes for confirmation , sometimes for expressing or exciting zeale , as , Isa. 3. 9. Joh. 1. 3. Psal. 6. 9 , 10. 2 King . 9. 10. Rom. 11. 8.

62. In sundry places of the old Testament , cited by Christ and the Apostles , the sense is kept , but not alwayes the same words , as , Rom. 10. 15 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21. and else-where . To teach us , that the Scripture is considered by the meaning , and not by the letters and syllables .

63. Some places in the old Testament , which seeme meere historical , containing bare Narrations of some things done , yet are mysticall withall , and have a hid and spirituall sense ; as Jonah's being in the Whales belly , holds forth Christs death , buriall , resurrection , for it pleaseth God to make some histories already done , to be types and Prophesies of things afterwards to be done ; as that of Hugar and Sarah , Gal. 4.

64. The Scripture hath sundry words which according to the place where they be used , doe signifie divers , yea even contrary things , as Leven , to signifie the nature of the Gospel , Mat. 13. and also heresie and superstition , Mat. 16. 6. 12. And sometime for sinfull corruption , as , 1 Cor. 5. So a Lyon signifieth Christ and the Devill , 1 Pet. 1. 5. Likewise Serpent is put in good part , Mat. 10. 16. and in ill part , Gen. 3. 1. Because these things have severall properties and contrary .

65. Where the text of Scripture is ambiguous , as it cannot be found out by us after diligent search , to which sense of two or three to leane unto , that text may be interpreted in both senses , if analogie of faith will suffer , & they be not against the circumstances of the text , for we must not swerve from the generall scope of the whole word , faith in Christ , and love to God , and our neighbour .

66. Many things be first generally spoken , and presently declared by particulars , as , 2 Tim. 3. 1 , 2. There be many such examples .

67. Some things in Scripture are incomprehensible by our reason , yet true .

68. Such Scriptures as have shew of repugnancy , are easily reconciled by an intelligent reader , as , 1 Tim. 2. 3. with Rom. 9. Not all . By all is not meant every one , but of all sorts and kinds of men , rich and poore , &c. See Joh. 5. 17. Gen. 2. 2. That is , from making more workes anew of nothing . So Mathew speaks of a staffe which might cumber and burden , but Marke of one that might ease and relieve a traveller , Mat. 10. 10. Mark . 6. 8 , 9.

69. Some things are said in Scripture not according to the truth of the things , but after their profession , appearance , or visibilitie and opinion of the times , as others thought . Thus the Scribes & Pharisees are termed righteous , Luk. 15. And thus hypocrites are said to have faith , Jer. 2. 18 , 19.

70. The Scriptures doe not allow alwayes the things & actions from whence similitudes be fetched , as the manners of theeves , and unjust Stewards , and Judges .

71. Some of Christs workes were miraculous , and proper to him as Mediator ; but Christs morall duties were given us for example and patterne , Mat. 11. 29 , 30. 1 Pet. 2. 21. 1 Joh. 2. 6. That we should walke as he hath walked .

72. By the words poore and needy in the Scriptures is often to be understood all Gods people , poore or rich .

73. When sinfull actions are attributed to God , as to provoke others to anger , to envie , or to harden Pharaohs heart , and the like , we must know God tempts none to sinne , as Jam. 1. But he doth it by delivering them over to Satan , & their lusts , to be hardened , God oft punisheth sin with sin , Rom. 1.

74. Sundry interrogations in Scripture , as , Rom. 10. 14 , 15. have the force of a negative , that is to say , they cannot . Some againe do so aske a question , as they require & have an expresse answer , Psal. 15. 1. Rom. 11. 1. & 3. 12. It is to quicken attention , or to urge more vehemently the affection , or to prepare way for some weightie discourse .

75. The title ( God ) is sometimes put absolutely , and in the singular number , then it notes the Creator , or the essence . Sometimes it is used with an addition , as in Exodus , I have made thee God of Pharaoh , or in the plurall number , Psal. 84. I have said yee are Gods ; and vers. 1. In the assembly of Gods , then it belongs to the Creator , see Rom. 1. 7. Sometimes essentially , as Joh. 4. 24. God is a Spirit . So the word Father is sometimes put essentially for the deity , Mat. 6. Our Father . Sometimes distinctly , The Father is greater then I. Ignorance in these Rules causeth errors concerning God .

76. Words of knowledge and sense doe signifie ( besides ) action and affections , as . God knoweth the wayes of the righteous , Psal. 1. 6. And that he knoweth who are his ▪ 2 Tim. 2. 19. Apoc. 2. 3. is meant he knowes them with love , favour , and approbation , to reward and crown them . Also it is said , whom he foreknew , Rom. 11. 2. with 1 Pet. 1. 2. is meant his eternall love imbraceth these as his owne ; for he knew barely before all reprobates and devils , and their works too , but not with favour and allowance . Also the word , Remember , is a word of sense , yet it often importeth care , love , delight , 1 Cor. 11. Doe this in remembrance of me . ( Gen. ●8 . )

77. Legall and Evangelicall promises must not be distinguished by bookes , but by the nature and condition of the promises ; for Legall promises may be found in bookes of the New Testament , as , Rom. 2. 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13. & 10 ▪ 5 Gal. 3. 10. 12. And Evangelicall promises of grace are in the old Testament , as , Psal. 132. 1 , 2. Jer. 32. 31 , 32. &c. Observe them according to these two rules following .

78. If promises of temporall or eternall things are propounded upon condition of workes , they are Legall , Christ onely hath kept the Law , and they which beleeve are to claime them by this tide conveyed to them by faith in Christ .

79. All promises for this life or a better , which are made as one condition , of beleeving , repenting , working , ( for these are workes though imperfect ) are onely effects and fruits of faith , and not conditions nor causes , but are onely to declare what persons God will save ; Godlinesse hath the promises , &c. 1 Tim. 6. He that beleeveth , &c. Joh. 3. And to understand them in any other sense is Legall , see Psal. 1. 1 , 2 , 3 , 2 Cor. 7. 10.

80. Touching such places ▪ where morall duties are commended and commanded , they must be understood according to these Rules following ; as , 1. though no word be spoken o● Christ , yet it must be understood that he alone is the whole cause of every part of our salvation , Act. 4. 12.

81. All morall duties are then commended in any partie , when the partie which doth them , is first in Christ , and his sinnes pardoned through his death , as 1 Pet. 2. 5. Heb. 11. 6. Our best duties are imperfect , if in Christ accepted , if out of Christ , mens best duties cannot cause them to be accepted .

82. All good workes must have a pure heart , Gods glory for the beginning and the end , having a conscience to God in obedience to his Word : unlesse the person be accepted , the bare deed or action cannot please God .

83. Where blessednesse is promised to morall duties doing , those places are not to be considered as causes thereof , ( for Christ is the cause of all ) out onely to declare what persons they are which God doth save ; and what the Saints dutie is to doe .

84. These duties must not be understood in the strictnesse and rigour of the morall Law , but of a continuall and unfained desire , purpose , and indeavour to doe them . This rule prevents scruples and feares , which weake ones have through the sense of their wants and failings .

85. The Scriptures use to call them sonnes , which by nature are no sonnes to them whose sonnes they are called , but they are sonnes legally , and by succession : thus Salathiel , being sonne of Neri naturally , Luk. 3. 27. is legally and by succession made the son of Jechoniah , whom he succeeded in the kingdome , as Mat. 1. 12.

86. After this manner Zedekiah or Jehoiakim , 1 Chron. 36. 10. and his sonne , 1 Chron. 3. 16. His brother by generation , his sonne by right of succession . By this Rule the two Evangelists , Matthew and Luke are reconciled in their Genealogie ; for Luke followeth the naturall order , and Matthew the legall order .

87. Many things are said in Scripture by anticipation and recapitulation .

88. In Scripture some things are spoken well , when righteous things are taught rightly , as , Repent and beleeve , &c. Or secondly , when evill things are taught evilly , when wicked things are perswaded , as , To curse God and dye . Or thirdly , when good things are uttered evilly , when some right thing is said with a perverse mind , as Joh. 9. Be thou his Disciple . Or fourthly , evill things well spoken , and dishonest things uttered in honest termes ; as , David went in to Bathsheba , and Rom. 1. 26.

89. The Scripture speaks many things in the person of the ungodly men , whose crooked words it doth report unto us as well as their deeds .

90. That word which seemeth to forbid goodnesse , or to command wickednesse , is a figurative speech , as , Vnlesse a man eate my flesh , &c. This is wickednesse , because the word is pure , it cannot allow any thing against honesty of manners , or veritie of faith .

91. Tropes and figures in Scriptures are not to be accounted lies ; as for Christ calling Herod a Fox , and himselfe a Vine , a Dore , &c. Because there is no purpose to deceive in them , but by meet resemblance to expresse the truth .

92. Similitudes are rather to make darke things plaine , then to prove any doubtfull thing ; similitudes are not argumentative , as Stewards in Joh. 15.

93. To make allegories and figures , where none are in exposition , is licentious , dangerous , and hurtfull .

94. In things that be subordinate , the affirming the one doth not sollow the denying of the other .

95. All interpretations must be fit as well as true .

96. It is a ready way to all error , to interpret Scripture by prejudice , in favour of some opinion of our owne .

97. In Scripture a betrothed woman is called a wife , Mat. 1. 20. and so of the man , Deut. 22. 23. Because betrothing is an essentiall part of marriage , yet the solemnization is necessary unto comelinesse and avoyding of offence .

98. That interpretation is corrupt that builds not up in faith and love .

99. A figurative speech in Scripture does more affect us with delight , then if the same thing were spoken plainly without figures . Psal. 23. 1. Gods care is set out by a Metaphor of a Shepheard , and Isai . 5. 1 , 2 , 3. Also see Joh. 15. 1 , 2. For new things ingender delight .

100. When the Scripture speaks somewhat darkly , it useth for the most part to joyne thereto some plaine thing in the same place to give light to it , as , Isa. 51. 1. The latter part of the 1. verse is somewhat hard , is opened in the beginning of the second verse . So Isaiah the 1. the third verse expounds the second ; and the former part of the first verse of Isai . 53. expounds the latter , and Rom. 10. the 5. and 6. verses , expounds the 3. & 9. 13. 8. Saith the word is neere , that is , the Gospel . See the like , Rom. 8. 20. 31. 2 Tom. 4. 6. Rom. 11. 7 , 8. 1 Cor. 5. 9. yet this Rule holds not alwayes .

Demonstrations , that the holy Scriptures , called the Bible , are of God , and from God .

THe Scriptures are from God , or from men , they are not from men , because neither the folly , nor the wisdome of men cannot effect such a worke .

1. Because men as men cannot understand the meaning of them , nor agree upon any meaning of them : So that it appeares they are a mystery above the reach of nature .

2. They are not from men , because they condemne that which is most excellent in man , as the wisdome of man , &c. it being contrary to nature , for to condemne that which is most excellent in nature , the Scriptures declare natures wisdome in the things of God to be foolishnesse , & the wisdome in man esteemes the wisdome of God to be foolishnesse .

3. It is not from men , because the whole scope of the Scriptures tends to destroy that which the nature of men love most .

4. Because that which the Scriptures require , is not onely contrary to the nature of man ( so that men delight and choose to read any booke rather then the Scripture ) therefore before men can submit unto it , they must deny themselves . So also that which it requires , is beyond the power of men , and requires a divine power , as the Scriptures and experience teach .

5. It is not from men , because the more any is ruled by it , obeying it , the more such are hated and persecuted by men , which sheweth it came not from nature .

6. The Scriptures came from God , because they tend to God , it being a rule in nature , Every thing tends to its center , a stone to the earth , the waters to the Sea from whence they came . So the Scripture ru●s to God ; shews God in his goodnesse , wisdome , power , love , there is in them a divine wisdome , they speake for God , they call men to God , to be for God .

7. They are not from men , because the way of bringing them forth into the world , was contrary to the wisdome and expectation of men , who in great matters imployeth great ▪ honourable , and wise men , but God takes a quite contrary course , he chooseth such who were meane & contemptible , silly tradesmen , as fishermen , and Tent-makers , &c. to be the publishers and penmen of the Scriptures .

8. They are from God , because God hath wonderfully continued them ▪ preserved them strangely ; first , in making the Jewes , who were enemies unto Christ , and the Scriptures , great preservers of them ; also preserving them when the greatest power hath sought their destruction , by searching for them , and burning them , &c. The like preservation cannot be declared of any writings of men , which have had so great opposition .

9. The miracles that were wrought at the first publishing of them , ( shewes them to be immediately from God ▪ ) and for the proofe of this wee have the testimony of them who lived in Christs time the Jewes , who would not own Christ , nor his doctrine , yet in their writings they confesse , there was one Jesus who did such miracles as the Scriptures declare , as Josephus ; and others testifie .

10. Wee know the Scriptures to be from God ▪ because wee see some of the Prophesies accomplished in our dayes , according to the saying of Christ , that there shall arise false Christs , and false Prophets , that shall say , I am Christ , Mat. 24. 5. 24. There being now two or three , or more , that have said so of themselves : Also the division foretold in Luke 12. 52 , 53. From henceforth there shall be five in one house divided , the father against the sonne , and the sonne against the father , and the mother against the daughter , &c. which is now accomplished in these dayes , for when there hath been but five persons in one family , every one of them of a severall opinion concerning Religion . The Spirit speaketh expresly , that in the latter times some should depart from the faith , giving heed to sed●cing spirits and doctrines of Devils , 1. Tim. 4. 1. &c. How many lies are now held and received for truths , so that men dare speake against the Scriptures , deny the resurrection of the body ; others teach that men and devills shall be saved ; and that the soule is mortall ; and that there is neither heaven nor hell ; with divers other opinions , that I am ashamed to name some of them which are held for truths ; This know also , that in the last dayes perilous times shall came , for men shall be lovers of their own selves ; covetous , boasters , proud , blasphemers , disobedient to parents , unthankfull , unholy , without naturall affection , truce-breakers , false accusers ▪ incontinent , fierce , despisers of those that are good , traytors , heady , high minded , lovers of pleasures more then lovers of God , having a forme of godlinesse , but denying the power thereof , 2 Tim. 3. 1. &c. Which things our eyes have seene come to passe , more then ever hath been heard of by any that have been before us , and are like to increase more and more . And thus it must be that the Scriptures may be fulfilled ; and if men must have a reason for every thing in Religion ; for , saith one , how can the dead body eaten by another creature be raised againe ? To whom I reply , God is said to be without beginning , ( and so he is , else he could not be God ) but what reason can be given , that God never had a beginning , or that God is ever present in all places , and knoweth , and ordereth all things , yet he is so , yet I see not how reason can reach these things , &c.

To beleeve the Scriptures is a worke of faith , and unlesse the holy Spirit of God perswades the truth of them , there will be doubting ; the Lord perswade his of the truth of the Scriptures , and of their interest in the same .

That Christ dyed not for the sinnes of every man in the world .

SOme men affirme that Christ dyed for all the sinnes of every person in the world , and yet they shall not all be saved : To whom we reply , how can it agree with the wisdome of God , to grant that which he knew would never profit ? As for God to give Christ to dye for the salvation of man , and yet decree to condemne him ? and doth not Christ lose the end of his death , to dye for their salvation who yet perish ? or is it justice to require the payment of one debt twice ? is there remission of sinnes in Christ for every man , but no righteousnesse , no everlasting life for them ? did Christ purchase salvation , but not the application of salvation , which is necessary to salvation ? how doth it appeare , Christ purchased salvation , or enough for salvation , or is the death of Christ of an uncertain event ? is Christ appointed to death , to purchase a possibilitie of salvation , but not salvation it selfe , with the application of it , then Christ shed his bloud to save man , and yet no man saved by it ; for if it depends upon mans beleeving of it , why may not all of them perish as well as any of them ? And if it be so , if man please , Christ shall lose the end of his death : but it clearly appeares , that all those for whose sinnes Christ dyed , are justified by his bloud , and shall be saved from wrath through him ; For if when we were enemies , we were reconciled to God by the death of his Sonne , much more being reconciled , we shall be saved by his life , Rom. 5. 8 , 9 , 10. & B. 3. 4. ( but this subject is handled at large by John Spilsbery in his book intituled , Gods Ordinance ) if the Sonne shall make you free , then are you free indeed , Joh. 8. else not . But upon second thoughts , they affirme that Christ never dyed for the sinne of unbeliefe , and that finall unbeliefe is the unpardonable sin . Answ. It cannot truly be denied , but unbeliefe ( is a not beleeving Christ ) which sinne is most immediately and directly against Christ , which sin is pardonable , with all manner of sin and blasphemy , which Christ saith , shall be forgiven unto the sons of men , as appeares Mat. 12. 31 , 32. therefore not beleeving in Christ , is not the unpardonable sinne also . Such as beleeve , have been guiltie of unbeliefe , which is pardoned in them , and if the sin of unbeliefe , which is none of the least sinnes , is pardoned without the bloud of Christ to the Elect who beleeve , why might not all other sinnes in like manner be so pardoned to them , and then shall not the bloud of Jesus Christ be shed in vaine , because by their reason their sinnes might have been pardoned without it , as well as their unbeliefe . And seeing without shedding of bloud there is no remission , Heb. 9. 22. let them declare how unbeliefe can be remitted : also if the bloud of Jesus Christ his Son , cleanseth us from all sin , then from unbeliefe also , 1 Joh. 1. 7. Also if finall unbeliefe were the sin against the holy Spirit that is unpardonable , then it could not be committed before death , There is a sin unto death , if thou see thy brother sin , &c. But if a man could not commit this sin before he dye , he could not be seen so to sin , 1 Joh. 5. 16. which sin is described Heb. 10. 29. therefore finall unbeliefe is not this sin here spoken of . To conclude , Christ dyed not for the sinnes of all the world ; for Christ saith , He layeth downe his life for his sheepe , Joh. 10. 15. You beleeve not , for yee are not of my sheepe , vers. 26. Yet as many as were ordained to eternall life beleeved , Acts 13. 48. see Joh. 17. 2. 19. 24. 29. The end of Redemption is application , Phil. 1. 29. Joh. 6. 37. 39. The Scripture saith , He tooke upon him the seed of Abraham , Heb. 2. 16. and how Abrahams seed is considered , appears Gal. 3. 16. 22. 29. Such as are Christs , such as beleeve are Abrahams seed . And seeing all Adams posteritie cannot be considered to be Abrahams seed in no sense , therefore there is no ground to conceive that Christ dyed for the sinnes of all the seed of Adam , as they affirme .

That all men under the Gospel , have not sufficient grace given them for conversion .

FOr the word sufficient grace , how can we conceive that grace to be sufficient in power , which is not sufficient in performance of the worke ? for seeing conversion follows not , how is it sufficient to conversion ? is that sufficient to conversion that never attaines it ? is that medicine sufficient to cure such a disease , which being taken doth not cure it ? Sufficient and effectuall is all one . And seeing many were never converted , it must of necessitie follow , that sufficient grace was never given unto them ; for if sufficient strength be put to move the earth , motion must needs follow . The reason why they came not to Christ , was because the Father did not draw them , Joh. 6. 44. and inwardly teach them . God must give a heart to perceive , and eyes to see , for miracles cannot doe it , Deut. 29. 3 , 4. Joh. 12. 37 , 38. The arme of the Lord must be revealed . They say it was because they would not beleeve . Wee answer , They neither would nor could , the Lord saith , they could not beleeve , Joh. 12. 39. Therefore man cannot finally hinder his conversion ; for whom God will save , no power of man can destroy . Man in his first conversion is wholly passive , we cannot worke it in our selves , nor hinder Gods working of it , because we are dead in sinnes , Ephes. 2. 1. Col. 2. 13. Ephes. 5. 14. and spiritually blind , Rev. 3. 18. Eph. 4. 17. & 6. 8. Mat. 6. 23. Luk. 4. 18. Joh. 1. 5. Acts 26. 18. 1 Cor. 2. 14. Our hearts stony and destitute of goodnesse , Ezek. 36. 26. & 11. 19. Gods worke in converting us is a raising from the dead , Eph. 2. 5. Col. 2. 12. Rev. 20. 6. Joh. 5. 21. 25. A restoring the sight to the blind , Luk. 4. 18. A new birth , Joh. 1. 13. & 3. 3. Another creation of him , Eph. 2. 10. Psal. 51. 12. 2 Cor. 5. 17. Gal. 5. 15. The giving of a new heart , Ezek. 9. 19. So that man cannot prepare himselfe to conversion . God regenerateth man that he may beleeve . The tree must first be good , before it can bring forth good fruit . How can they that are evill speake good things ? Mat. 12. 34. It 's an error therefore to thinke that mans conversion to God begins in some act man performes , and not in a worke first wrought in us by God . They alledge , Isai . 55. 11. to prove the word and the Spirit goeth together . Ans. Not to make it powerfull in the conversion in all . They reply , Act. 7. 51. Yee have alwayes resisted , &c. Ans. True ; in resisting the outward means , but it cannot be proved that they resisted in the inward work of God upon their hearts . From Mat. 25. 29. they affirme , that he that useth nature well , shall have grace . This text is to be understood of the gifts of the Ministery in the improvement of them , the increase is in the same kinde , nature and grace are not so . Also it 's plaine , grace hath not been bestowed upon such as used nature best , as appeares by the rejection of the Sidonians and Capernaits , who were better fitted for nature . Therefore the well using of nature , is no preparation for the receiving the Gospel . And to what end shall God give meanes sufficient to work faith and repentance in such as he hath not appointed to life ? But all that are given unto Christ , doe in time come to him , and he brings them to everlasting life , Joh. 6. 37 , 39. To you it is given to beleeve , Phil. 1. 29.

Reasons why wee dissent from such as hold free will .

1. BEcause it exempts the creature from being under the power of God , for that which giveth a creature power to doe as he will , when God hath done all he may unto him , that doth make him no instrument subject to Gods power ; for they affirme , that God doth not worke in his omnipotency , but leaves it to the free will of the creature . It is one thing to be able to doe a thing by perswasion , and another to doe it by power which I cannot refuse , this latter they deny .

2. It denies Gods decree to be infallible , for either God determines in such and such cases , with the circumstances thereof , or not , if not , then he cometh short of the creature herein , for he determineth such things in his matters .

3. If God doth not determine and apply the creature to will and worke that which he worketh in the creature , then the creature is the cause why God willeth this or that , and by consequence is the cause why he willeth this or that , but the creature is not the cause , &c. Gods working this or that , must either goe before the will , and so cause it to will , or else it must follow , accomplishing that which mans will willeth , the latter makes God to follow and tend on mans will . Also it makes the will of man to have a casuall force in God himselfe , as if God should say , I will work conversion , faith , &c. in such a person if he will .

4. If libertie of will stands in such a power , free for exercising good or evill , then Christ had not libertie of will , son he had libertie onely to work that which was good ; nor hath man of himselfe any libertie or power to come to Christ ; For , saith Christ , none can come to me , except the Father draw him , Joh. 6. 44. 37. So that they are deceived who make God by his grace to convert us . So that he leaveth it in our power , whether we will be converted or no : but who can resist that which God worketh by his almightie power , Eph. 1. 20 : when he putteth forth this his power which raised Christ from the dead ? and if this could be resisted , it were not almightie . The Apostle saith , that the power did worke in him mightily , Col. 1. last , Eph. 3. 20.

5. Because God in his good pleasure of his will , doth freely and effectually determine of all things whatsoever he willeth , he doth all things according to the counsell of his own will , Ephes. 1. 11. All things are in the minde of God before they are in themselves , and what he willeth , he effecteth in his time , and nothing is done , if he willeth it not to be done , Psal. 115. 3. & 135. 6. Jehovah doth whatsoever he pleaseth . The will of God is the first cause of things ; By thy will they are , Rev. 4. 11. He by willing makes the object , Jer. 1. 18. He hath mercy on whom he will , Rom. 9. 18. and there is no cause to be given of his will ; It 's God that worketh in you to will and to doe , Phil. 2. 17. And such as make the will of God to depend upon the creature , as if he beleeves , God wills his salvation , if he beleeves not , he wills his damnation , makes Gods will mutable , and to depend upon the act of the creature ; and then it will follow , so often as the will of the creature changeth , so often God changeth , and then God will doe this or that if man will : But whatsoever God willeth in all things he willeth effectually , so that he cannot in no wise be hindered or disappointed ; for if God should will any thing he could not obtaine , there should be imperfection in God , and if he can obtaine it and will not , how then doth he will it ? Isai . 46. 10. Every decree of God is eternall , 1 Cor. 2. 7. Acts 15. 18. and remaines alwayes immutable , Numb . 23. 23. Pro. 19. 21. And as many as were ordained to eternall life beleeved , Act. 13. 38. Whom he predestinated , them he called , Rom. 8. 30. God did from eternitie know every severall thing , with all the circumstances thereof , and knowes how to apply the fittest occasion to every thing , and how to effect all things : He that frames the heart , observeth all their workes , Psal. 33. 15. Isai . 44. 2. even those things that seeme to happen most freely God determines of according to his will , of the very heart of man , Psal. 33. 15. 1 Sam. 10. 9. 26. Pro. 21. 1. Of a man killing another by chance , Exodus . Of the lot cast into the lap , Pro. 16. 33. Of sparrowes falling , Mat. 10. 29 , 30. Of lilies , flowers , and grasse of the earth , Mat. 6. 28. 30. Yea of all creatures and things , Joh 38. Psal. 104. Isai . 45. 7. Jer. 14. 22. That the bones of Christ should not be broken . By all which it appeares , the will of God determined the certainty of the event . And if God should not determine of all things , the will of God should not be simply and universally the first cause ; and to deny him to be the first cause , implies that there are two first beginnings , or more then two , which cannot be truth . And for any to say , that man hath power to resist all God can worke for his conversion , is to put grace in mans power , ( and not mans will under the power of grace ) is to say , that man is able to frustrate Gods counsell concerning his conversion , and power to resist all that God can worke herein , is to affirme , that man hath power to frustrate Gods counsell ; and if it be so , will it not follow that man hath power to make God a lyer ? If God by his omnipotent power inclines the wills of men whither he willeth , then he hath them more in his power then man hath ; then his will decreeing is the cause necessitie followeth , and the will of the creature is not the cause of the necessitie of things . The Scriptures declare that God workes all things after the counsell of his will ( not mans will ) and made all things for himselfe , Pro. 16. 4. Isa. 43. 6 , 7.

Object . Then you take away the libertie of the will , if man have no power to doe otherwise .

Ans. 1. That which doth ( not having power to doe otherwise ) from second causes , compelling it so to doe in that it is not free : Gods will in himselfe is the first cause of all things , and this omnipotent will of God doth determine the creature .

2. Men ground the freedome of will falsly , for the freedome of will as it is a faculty voluntary or elective , doth not require this indifferency of the inclination in exercise , for it is bound by Gods decree , so as not any thing can be done but what he hath determined , yet nothing can satisfie some , unlesse it be granted , that they have power of will to crosse Gods decree .

3. If the cause why God chooseth me ( and not another ) is because I will , &c. then it is not meerly from his will , and then you deny the freedome of Gods will . Also if a man hath libertie of will to resist Gods will and worke , so as God shall not convert him , it will follow that when we are converted , we convert our selves , which is contrary to the Scriptures , as , Psal. 51. And doe not they give the Scriptures the lye , that say the will of an unregenerate man may be free to righteousnesse , will it , and imbrace it when it is proposed : But if a seeing eye were in darknesse , it could not discern any thing , how much lesse shall the blind see ? By nature we are blind , Rev. 3. 17 , 18. Wee are darknesse , till we be made light in the Lord , Eph. 5. 8. Darknesse cannot comprehend the light , Joh. 1. 5. The naturall man cannot receive the things of the Spirit , for they are foolishnesse to him , 1 Cor. 2. 14. Therefore the Saints pray to God to reveale to them the knowledge of Christ , and to inlighten their eyes by the Spirit of wisdome and revelation , Eph. 1. 17 , 18 : Mans will being wholly inthralled into sinne , as appeares Rom. 6. 20. & 8. 6. The carnall mind is enmitie to God , it is not subject to the Law of God , nor can be ; how then can it will , desire , and receive grace by nature ? As God commanded Pharaob to let Israel goe , yet he could not , for God hardened his heart that he could not be willing , Joh. 12. 39. with Rom. 11. 32. they confesse , that unlesse God give faith , it 's impossible for men to beleeve ; so then the reason men doe not beleeve , is because God doth not give them faith , Phil. 1. 29. But to what purpose is it for God to give Christ to dye for mens sinnes , seeing as they confesse , they shall have no benefit by him unlesse they beleeve , and that they cannot doe without God , and God doth not give them faith ( if he did , they could not but beleeve ) what great love is this which is shewed to them ? The substance of those famous , or rather infamous opinions of ours , of such as hold free will , and that Christ dyed for the sinnes of all Adams posteritie , is that God wills the salvation of all men , but he is disappointed of his will . Those whom God will save by his antecedent will , he will destroy by his consequent will : that God doth seriously intend the salvation of all persons , yet neverthelesse , he calls men by a meanes , and time , that is , not apt , nor fit , by reason whereof those who are so called , doe not follow Gods calling . That faith is partly from grace , and partly from free will ; that God is bound to give all men power to beleeve . They distinguish between the obtaining of salvation , and the application of salvation ; The first , they say , is for all ; The second is onely for them that beleeve , but the application of salvation is neither willed , nor nilled to men . That man may determine and open his own heart , and receive the word of God ; That the reprobate may be saved ; That the number of the Elect is not certain ; That the decree of Reprobation is not peremptory ; And that a Reprobate may convert himselfe ; And that faith is not of-meere grace . They bring in God speaking thus ; I decree to send my Sonne to save all who shall beleeve ; but who and how many they shall be , I have not determined , onely I will give to all men sufficient power to beleeve , but he shall beleeve who will himselfe : I will send Christ to dye for the sinnes of many , whom I know it shall not be effectuall at all unto , to whom I will never give faith , and notwithstanding Christ hath satisfied for all their sinnes , yet they shall suffer my wrath for them for ever .

That God did not elect for foreseene Faith .

WEE grant God knew all that ever was , is , or shall be , but we deny that God did elect to life any for any thing he did foresee in them ; for if God should looke out of himselfe to any thing in the creature , upon which his will may be determined to elect , were against his al sufficiency , as if he should get knowledge from things we doe , implies an imperfection of knowledge , and of will , if he should see some thing in us before he can determine , as if God were in suspence , saying , I will choose this man if he will , I will upon foresight of my condition absolutely choose him . To say , I will elect 〈◊〉 , if they beleeve , is a conditionall election , and if they can doe this without God , then God is not omnipotent ; if they say , he will give them faith to beleeve , then it is all one with an absolute will , as I elect to life , and I will give these faith ; Far whom he predestinateth , them he calleth , &c. Rom. 8. It seemes God wills our salvation , if we beleeve , that is , he wils the having a thing on a condition , that he will not worke , and then it is impossible , unlesse the creature can doe something that is good , which he will not doe in him , or on a condition , which he will worke , and then he worketh all he willeth , or on such a condition as he seeth the creature cannot performe , nor himselfe will not make him performe ; and this were frivolous . Also to say God decreed to send Christ to save all , if they will beleeve , I see they neither will nor can , therefore I will condemne them . Joh. 12. 39. God hath shut up all in unbeliefe , as , Rom. 11. 32. therefore they could not beleeve , because he hath blinded their eyes , and hardened their hearts , that they should not see with their eyes , nor understand with their hearts , and be converted , Joh. 12. 39 , 40.

Concerning Infants Baptisme .

SOme reasons why we dissent from it . 1. Because we finde no command nor example in the word of God , that any infants were baptized , and wee are forbidden to presume above what is written . And if we should admit of any one thing in the worship of God which we finde no warrant for in the Word , we should be forced by the same reason to admit of many , yea , any invention of men .

2. Because God requires that such as are baptized , should first be made Disciples ; Beleeve and repent , &c. Mat. 28. 19. Acts 8. 12 , 13. 36 , 37 , 38. Acts 2. 38. 41. Mat. 3. 6. Mark . 1. 4 , 5. Acts 10. 44. 47 , 48.

3. Because Christ in his Testament , which is his last will , the Legacies therein contained are given to such as beleeve , and to none else , Gal. 3. 6 , 7. 14. 23. 29. Rom. 8. 17. & 14. 11 , 12. These are the heires of the kingdome of Christ , with the priviledges thereof , Jam. 1. 18. 1 Pet. 2. 23. Joh. 1. 12 , 13. 1 Joh. 3. 9. 10. Those that beleeve are the seed of the righteous , and of the promise , Isai . 43. 5. with Rev. 12. 17. Gal. 4. 26. 31.

4. Because the matter of the Church of Christ ought to be Saints , living stones , as , 1 Pet. 2. 5. 9. Eph. 2. 19. to 23. & 4. 6. 1 Cor. 12. 12 , 13. 25 , 26 , 27. Eph. 5. 25 , 26 , 27. Joh. 4. 23. Act. 20. 28. Rev. 17. 14.

5. Because God in his word denies fellowship and communion with such as do not beleeve , Joh. 3. 5 , 6. 36. Heb. 11. 6. Rom. 9. 8 , 9. They which are the children of the flesh , these are not the children of God , but the children of the promise are counted for the seed . If yee be Christs , then are yee Abrahams seed , and heires according to promise , Gal. 3. 29. For yee are the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus , vers. 26. Those God owns for his in his word are purchased by his bloud , who are called , chosen , and faithfull , 1 Pet. 2. 5. 9. Jam. 4. 23. Eph. 2. 19. to 23. & 4. 16. Rom. 8. 29 , 30. Rev. 11. 7. Eph. 1. 4 , 5 , 6. 2 Thes. 2. 13 , 14. 1 Pet. 1. 2. Act. 2. 47. & 13. 48. The naturall posteritie of beleevers are not so much as in appearance such .

But because this Controversie is handled largely in severall Treatises , such as desire further satisfaction , may have recourse to them .

Some affirme , that the children of beleevers in Church-fellowship , are to be baptized , which is now practised in New-England , and else-where . There are three doubts to be answered .

1. What if neither of my parents , nor their parents can be proved beleevers ?

2. Nor any members of a true visiable Church ?

3. If I were baptized with god-fathers & god-mothers , Common-prayer-book , Crosse , and Surplice , and by a Minister made by the Bishops , all which are now found out to be Antichristian , and the manner of Baptisme was also by springling water upon my face ; concerning which the Scripture is silent : how may I be assured God will own such a baptizing for his Ordinance , seeing also themselves confesse , that no man may lawfully baptize but a true Minister that hath a lawfull calling ? And although wee conceive men able to preach the Gospel may baptize , yet we doe not beleeve God sends such to baptize , whom he hath not informed of the manner how to doe it , which is not by sprinkling water on the face , but by dipping in the River , as , Mat. 3. 16. Acts 8. 38.

That the gift of miracles is not essentiall in him that dispenseth Baptisme .

THat some of those that did baptize , did miracles we grant , and that all that baptized did so , cannot be proved ; John baptized , yet he did no miracle , Joh. 10. 41. nor Apollo , &c. And seeing that the Scriptures doe not declare that the gifts of tongues , or miracles , or laying on of hands , is to be in those that dispense Baptisme , we have no word to warrant such a restriction ; men are to administer baptisme by vertue of gifts .

1. Then that gift and ministery which God in his word owns , is to be acknowledged sufficient for his Ordinance ; but some one or more of those gifts in 1 Cor. 12. 8 , 9 , 10 , 11. 28 , 29. &c. still continue , as they confesse ; Ergo.

2. All the gifts of the Spirit are of the same nature , viz. spirituall , though divers in operation , and are of equall authoritie , and so to be esteemed by us , 1 Cor. 12. 7 , 8 , 9. 24.

3. As in the naturall body , wee honour and put comelinesse upon those parts which we think least honoured , for our comely parts have no need ; so ought we to doe the same in spirituall gifts , as , 1 Cor. 12. 23 , 24. Doe they so who tie the administration to one of the gifts of the Spirit , and not to another ; and doe not they who seeke to honour one gift , to the dishonour of another , dishonour all the gifts of the Spirit ? For as it is in the body , 1 Cor. 12. 26. so it is in this case ; and this was the Corinths sin , as appeares 1 Cor. 12.

4. Wee are all baptized by one Spirit , 1 Cor. 12. 13. He saith not by the gift of miracles , &c. and he that is baptized by any gift of the Spirit , is baptized by the same Spirit , vers. 28 , 29 , 30.

5. If the administration of Baptisme be not annexed to the operation of one gift of the Spirit , more then to another of the same Spirit , then wee may not so annex them : but to the operation of any one gift of the Spirit , Baptisme is not annexed : Ergo : for proofe , see 1 Cor. 12. 7. to 14.

6. If God workes in all the operations of the Spirit , then to be baptized by any of the operations of the same Spirit , it must be acknowledged to be the Baptisme of the same God : but the first is true , 1 Cor. 12. 6. Ergo , the latter is true also .

7. If the Apostles might baptize , because they were Apostles , then might they baptize in case they had not the gift of miracles and tongues , &c. For it is one thing to be an Apostle , and another to have the gift of tongues or miracles , as appeares 1 Cor. 12. 28 , 29 , 30. They were severall gifts , & though they might have the gift of miracles , it 's not because they were Apostles ; for they were given according to the good pleasure of his will ; he divides to every man severally as he will , 1 Cor. 12. 11.

8. If any affirme Baptisme was to be administred by those who had such gifts of miracles , &c. because those gifts were greater in operation , and so the greater gifts : I answer , the gift of faith is greater then the gift of miracles , for a man may perish with the latter . They confesse , some of these gifts still continue , if the rest are not , then these are the greatest now , and so Baptisme may be dispensed by him that hath any of them , and if they be ceased , might it not be , because they were Idolized above the rest of the same Spirit ?

9. It is said , that Apollo conferred the gifts of the holy Spirit by laying on of hands , because he baptized not untill he had learned the principles of Religion , and so understood the ministery of the Spirit . I answer , it follows not , because it is one thing to understand the ministery of the Spirit , and another to worke miracles , and conferre the gifts of the holy Spirit , and speake with tongues , &c. As it is one thing to learne the doctrine of Baptisme , and laying on of hands , and the resurrection of the dead , as Heb. 6. 2. and another thing to have the gifts , and to conferre them by laying on of hands ; it is one thing to learne and beleeve the resurrection of the dead , and another to raise the dead .

10. They affirme , that those that beleeve in truth , are of the body of which Christ is the head , and that they are of the Church , and that many now beleeve . Whence I also inferre , those who are of the Church of Christ , they have the power of Christ , because Christ is theirs , and Christ and his power are never separated , Mat. 28. 20. Ergo , they have the power of Christ , as , 1 Cor. 3. 21 , 22. Therefore they have authoritie to administer the Ordinance of Christ .

They grant , many have right to Baptisme by the free gift of God , and the bloud of Christ . Ans. Be it so . I cannot beleeve that God gives his a right to any thing that would doe them no good ; and if the injoying the Ordinance be good , how can we thinke that God so orders it , that they cannot come by it ? Psal. 34. Christ purchased no priviledge for his , which they may be as well without ; is not Gods power as great as his love ? and as the Communion of Saints , Baptisme , and the Supper , are the priviledges of the Saints , given them in love , so God hath appointed a way for them to injoy them , and so to affirme , holds forth as much wisdome and love in God to them ; as to say , God hath given them a right to such priviledges , but hath not afforded them any way , or meanes for them to come by them , that they might injoy them . But this subject is handled at large in John Spilsberies Booke , intituled , Gods Ordinance . It is foretold that Antichrist shall come with signes and wonders , as , Mat. 24. 23 , 24. and 2 Thes. 2. 9 , 10. We are not to looke for Christ to come in this way , yet it may be said of some , Except yee see signes and wonders ( to sense ) yee will not beleeve , Joh. 4. 48.

OBSERVATIONS AND EXPERIENCES .

Of the attributes of God .

THey are fountaines of comfort , and rocks of strength to his , and those that eye them , live comfortably upon them .

Of affections .

The affections doe oft perswade the judgement .

Our affections oft deceive our selves , and others , and goe for spirituall , when they are naturall .

In our greatest earnestnesse , wee have most cause to examine our hearts and affections .

All the disquietnesse and distempers within us , and by us , is occasioned by the want of bounding and well ordering our affections .

Our affections of joy and sorrow will exceed their bounds , unlesse they be forced .

When the object is spirituall , and the motive is spirituall , the affection is spirituall .

If our affections , anger , griefe , joy , &c. doe fit us to pray , they are spirituall , else not .

Our affections come farre short of that which we thinke we have in our judgements .

Our affections declare to us what we love .

Wee have many occasions of doing good , but we often want hearts and affections to improve them .

The quicknesse of our affections depends much upon the spirits of our bodies .

If our affections were answerable to our apprehensions of God , &c. they would destroy our bodies , because they could not beare it .

Of actions .

That which is the ground , cause , and end of a mans action , in that he lives , whether it be God or selfe ; in those actions that concerne our selves we often exceed in , but such actions as are for God chiefly , we are hardly drawne unto , but easily drawne from .

If Satan cannot corrupt the action , he will indeavour to corrupt the judgement and affection .

Many conceive that some of those things God commands , are needlesse , but it is a great error .

Of afflictions .

Afflictions are little , light , short , and seasonable , though they oft seeme to be many , great , and long .

Affliction breeds patience , humbleth and mortifieth selfe , teacheth a Saint experience , and sends him the oftener to God .

God is alwayes present with his , yet in afflictiō they least see him , by reason they looke so much to the affliction , if oppressed with it , but some see God best in afflictions .

God is as sweet and may be as much injoyed in adversitie , &c. as in prosperitie ; not any affliction could trouble a childe of God , if he knew wherefore God did send it .

Of assurance of the love of God .

He that hath assurance of Gods love , can trust himselfe with God in any estate and strait .

He that hath assurance of the love of God , can part with any thing for God .

Of Christ .

Christ is sweet in meditation , more sweet in contemplation , most sweet in fruition .

Union with Christ is equall alike to all who have union with him ; and union with Christ is the greatest happinesse and honour a beleever can injoy .

Such as have union with Christ , should spare no cost for him , although no cost of ours can procure him .

Christs servants are for the most part poore , and they appeare to the world very silly and contemptible .

Of corruption .

Corruption cannot be reformed .

Corruption neither will nor can subdue corruption .

Of Counsell .

There is much safetie in many counsellors , who are wise and faithfull .

Such as follow their own counsell , doe often prove burthens to themselves and others .

Of Creatures .

The creatures are full of emptinesse .

The reason why we are so subject to be drawne away with the creatures , is because we see not the emptinesse of them .

We oft love creatures more before we had them , then when we had them , because we expected more from them , then was in them .

All things below are fading , part wee must with them , and with life also ere long .

So much as the creature takes away in parting , so much our life was in it .

He is not troubled at the coming and going of the creatures , when the heart is fixed on God .

The love of creatures hinders us in good things , but the wise use of them doe much further us .

A childe of God useth many things spiritually , which others use carnally .

God often bestows abundance of outward things upon some , not for themselves , ( for they need them not ) but that they might supply the wants of others ; and many of them keepe them for themselves .

Concupiscence .

Concupiscence is strong and raging , and hardly tamed , yet it is to be attained with difficultie .

Comfort .

Wee oft seeke comfort in creatures , which have no power to comfort ; all my comfort is in Christ , if I live , he will provide for me , if I dye , he will receive me .

Custome .

Forme and custome are deadly enemies to spiritualnesse .

Custome without truth , is but an old error .

Custome so shuts mens eyes , that they cannot see the true visage of things .

Custome makes hard things easie , and bondage no burden , and addes delusion to blindnesse .

The rich observe customes , but the poore pay deare for them , for they are starved by them ; if that which is spent at burials were wisely bestowed upon the poore , it were farre better : and so in other needlesse customes .

Of Conscience .

Sinning against conscience exceedingly hardens the heart .

Conscience can see best in darknesse , and speake most lowdly in silence .

Conscience is a very tender thing , a small thing will trouble it , but a blind conscience will swallow up any thing .

The naturall conscience will be satisfied with the outside of a dutie .

Crosses .

Crosses are not pleasing to the flesh , but profitable to the Spirit .

The more crosses a Saint hath , the more they doe him good , and is the more like Christ .

Great crosses are good physicke for great stomackes .

Contentment .

Earthly contents are present to our sense .

No earthly thing can give content .

Joy in God breeds content .

So much as wee deny our selves , so much contentment we have .

Contemplation .

Divine contemplation , makes us high in thoughts , and rich in expectation .

Contemplation of Gods free love , and the soules interest in it , doth revive , raise , and inlarge the soule .

To contemplate on the things above , is most pleasant of all things to them who have tasted the sweetnesse of them .

Covetousnesse .

Such as are not contented with that they have , are covetous .

Distrust of God causeth covetousnesse , which is the root of all evill .

So much as we are discontented with our estates , so much covetousnesse there is in us .

Covetousnesse doth us and others more hurt then we are aware of .

Such as thinke themselves least covetous , are most covetous .

A child of God knows not how to be revenged upon his selfe for his covetousnesse of the things of this world .

Contraries .

Every contrary , the more it is resisted , the more it appeares .

Deadnesse of spirit .

Deadnesse of heart is an enemy to action : he that will support diligence , must support chearfulnesse : deadnesse is the grave of many graces .

Such as come to God unchearfully , oft returne unthankfully .

Spirituall deadnesse , is a great griefe to a childe of God .

Delayes .

Delayes a rise from sloath .

The more we delay , the more we may .

By deferring wee presume upon that we have not , and neglect that we have .

To morrow , to morrow , cozens many a man .

Death .

Death hath something to say to every man , and would faine be heard , but men are not at leisure .

Every man must dye .

The day of death is the first day of life .

He whose hopes are in heaven , is not much afraid of death .

Death is to him no misery , whose hope is in eternitie .

Death when it seemes to dispossesse a Saint of all , it possesseth him of all things .

Such as are spiritually dead , are not aware of it ; they onely mind and savour the things of the flesh .

Difficulties .

Difficulties are discouragements ; and handsome excuses are welcome to a sloathfull heart .

Love will carry on through all difficulties , and to undergoe all manner of torments .

Dreames .

An evill dreame shews some evill that prevailes in the heart .

By dreames God may foreshew some sin to come , which we are in danger to fall into , which we are not afraid of .

Selfe-deniall .

They live the sweetest lives that most deny themselves .

There are very few that do deny themselves , but many can deny Christ , and his truth .

Selfe may be denyed a little in one kinde , if it may please selfe much in another .

Distractions .

Distractions of minde in duties , is either from our minding other things , or resting in our own strength , or from a not serious setting our minds on the thing propounded by us ; for that which the heart is throughly set upon , it is so attentive to it , that it can be present to no other thing at that instant , especially to hinder the thing in hand .

The want of a wise ordering and dispatch of businesse causeth a great distraction in men .

Duties .

It is no wonder some doe so much , because they expect heaven for what they doe .

Such duties as flow not from faith and love , are legall and slavish .

Many will own and confesse their dutie in the generall , that will wholly deny it in particular , especially when it concernes themselves .

A beleever , as he is a beleever , he doth fetch all from God , refer all unto God , and doe all for God .

Examples .

The examples of men is not to be any rule to walke by .

Mens example is very forcible , when it is universall .

The worst examples are most observed .

Excuses .

When we have sinned , Satan and our corruptions help us to cover it with excuses ; which is to cover a lesser evill with a greater .

It is easie to frame an excuse for any evill .

Education .

Good education doth oft cause an outward reformation .

Evill education is a great provocation to sinne .

Excesses .

Men doe too little , or too much : men love extreames ; as many eate too little , or too much ; worke too little , or too much .

Most men are drowned in adversitie , or drunke with prosperitie .

Extraordinary .

For men not to seeke themselves is extraordinary .

To practise the truth against great opposition , to be the more humbled by knowledge , and to goe against custome , is extraordinary .

For a man to refuse to joyne house to house when he can , is extraordinary .

For the rich to take reproofe willingly and profitably of the poore , is extraordinary .

For to part with riches as freely as they were received , is extraordinary .

Ends in duties .

The end rules the meanes , and is above them .

A beleever is ever true to his end , but he often failes in the meanes .

Error .

When errors prove profitable , many will imbrace them .

Ignorance is the foundation of error .

It 's common for error to be called truth , and truth to be called error .

Effects .

Effects are in order to second causes , not to God , who most certainly , necessarily , and wisely hath willed them ; and nothing falls out accidentally , as referred to him whose wise intention reacheth every thing .

Favour of men .

The favour of men is a vanitie , yet much desired .

The favour of men is an uncertaine thing , soone got , and soone lost .

Men desire the favour of men , God denies it to some , to exercise their faith , weane them from the world , or because we performe not our duties unto them .

Folly .

Many never see their folly , untill it be too late .

Feares .

Feares make the understanding weake , and the judgement dull .

Feares hinder the certainty of faith .

So much as we feare men , wee forget and sleight God .

Faith .

Where God gives faith , he gives trials also to exercise it .

Faith quiets , comforts , and strengthens the soule .

We injoy Christ by faith , and not by feeling .

When faith is at the greatest , then there is the least feeling .

As our faith is , so are we incouraged to obey God .

The more faith , the lesse feare .

God .

Gods presence in every place is a great comfort to his .

They that live upon God alone , live most comfortably , for there is satisfaction , and no changes , he feares nothing that can befall him , he lives comfortably in all .

Grace .

Grace is exceeding strong ( especially faith & love ) to carry a man through all .

God will exercise the graces that are in his .

The more grace any have , the more need to pray , because Satan is most ready to tempt such .

Griefe .

We cannot heartily be grieved for that sin in another , of which wee make not conscience in our selves .

It is a griefe to a childe of God , to speake of any good they finde a want of in themselves .

If we did not immoderately love outward things , we would not grieve at the losse of them , nor keepe such a doe to get them .

Of gifts .

The greater gifts spirituall or temporall , the prouder the flesh is , and the readier Satan is to assault .

Good .

A man may doe good in the strength of a lust .

Wee oft doe least good to them to whom we owe most .

There be many good things will decay if let alone , but evill things let alone will increase .

Parents thinke they doe their children great good , when they can make them rich and great in the world , they make them the greater sinners ; for then they shall have little else to doe but to waste the creatures , and live in excesse , idlenesse , lust , pride , and oppression .

Glory .

When we thinke wee most seeke the glory of God , we too often most seeke our owne .

What a man trusts in , he glories in , and what a man glories in , he trusts in , and is confident of .

Healing .

God sometimes healeth corruption by not healing it .

Hope .

The Saints hope is in heaven in God .

The naturall mans hope is to get honour , fine cloaths , good cheare , ease , and pleasures .

Hearts .

Many mens brains deceive their hearts .

What the heart likes best , the minde studies most .

Habits .

In acquired habits the act goeth before the habit , and prepares for it , but in infused habits it is contrary , for as we have first the facultie of seeing before we see , so we have first the infused habit , before we exercise the operation of it .

Humilitie .

One may be humbled , but not humble .

When we are content to be admonished of our faults sharply by our inferiors , we have some humilitie .

Honour .

The honour of men , is a very shadow , a vanitie .

The more men desire honour , the lesse they deserve , & the lesse they often have .

Hatred .

That sin which a childe of God loved most before conversion , he hates most when he is converted .

Joy .

While we live here , we have joy and griefe mixed : this life , nor our bodies will not admit of perfect joy .

Outward joyes make a great noyse , but never truly heate and comfort the heart .

There is no sound joy in earthly things , they reach not the heart , but the fancy .

In temporall things , our joy is greater then the cause ; in spirituall things , the cause is greater then the joy .

Every heart seekes joy such as it is .

Spirituall joy opposeth carnall , and carnall opposeth spirituall ; the more we relish heavenly , the lesse we relish earthly .

Now joy is in the Saints , when they are in heaven they shall be in joy .

Ignorance .

Ignorance is the cause of prophanenesse , and all evill .

Devotion with ignorance breeds superstition , and Idolatry , and persecution .

Hope with ignorance causeth presumption .

Feare with ignorance causeth desperation .

Impossible things .

It is impossible to be conformable to Christ , and to the world ; to please God , and the world .

Of idlenesse .

An idle person is fit for nothing , but sinne and temptation .

An idle life is much loved and entertained of most men .

Knowledge .

That knowledge that is from God , subjects the soule to God .

That knowledge that is onely in the braine , is notionall , and neither subdues sinne nor Satan .

If we know good things , wee cannot but love and affect them .

Love .

That love which is not constant is false .

Love is most active , when it is least knowne , and cannot be requited .

Love and labour goe together , as our longing is to injoy God , so is our love to him ; if wee greatly love the Lord , wee greatly long to injoy him ; for as our love is to any thing , so accordingly is our indeavour to injoy it .

Such love the way of God , who hate all things that are contrary unto it , and practise it when it is most despised .

Such things as we love , we keepe with care , possesse with joy , and lose with griefe .

Live .

We live in that we mind and love , and are made like the things we love .

The most seeke life in the regions of death , where it is not .

Many in this naturall life have comforts few , crosses frequent , pleasures short , and paines lasting .

Light .

Light causeth them that see it to follow it .

Libertie .

We are more prone to desire libertie , then to know how to use it .

Many of the Saints abuse their libertie they have in Christ .

It is the greatest libertie to injoy God , and to have a free heart to serve him .

Such as plot and plead for libertie for the flesh , are very carnall .

Of losses .

There is no losse in losing for God .

What we lose for God , shall be made up unto us in God .

The benefit which follows the losse of outward things , is that they are never troubled with them more .

Motions .

Forced motions cannot be perpetuall .

Minde .

When our minds are not fixed , they rove every where , and are no where to purpose .

Such as mind the things above , savour them , and have interest in them .

Mirth .

When men are most chearfull & merry , they are most free and bountifull .

Naturall mirth ends in sadnesse and sorrow .

In naturall mirth , when wee are most merry , we are neerest to danger .

The mirth of the wicked is vanitie and madnesse .

Mercies .

Many possesse many mercies , and yet want the comfort of them .

Wee injoy more mercies then we are aware of .

Occasions .

The more secret and colourable any occasion of evill is , the more men are indangered by it .

Obedience .

Our obedience to God is most direct , when there is nothing else to sweeten the action .

Of peace .

Men cannot give peace : untill the Lord speake peace to the soule , there is no peace .

Where there is no peace , there may be quietnesse or silence .

Gods people are a peaceable people .

Passion .

The causes of anger and passion , are ignorance and pride .

Promises .

The wicked desire promises for peace , and not for strength against sinne .

The promises make the people of God not carelesse , but more fruitfull and serviceable .

There were never any ashamed that rested onely upon God in his promise .

One promise from a man will please some men more then ten from God .

Of prayer .

There is no dutie in Religion that is so much counterfeited as the duty of prayer is .

Verball prayer causeth great deadnesse .

Some pray when they should sleepe , and sleepe in prayer , and pray when they should work , but wisdome divides to each its proper time and season .

Of povertie .

The heires of the earth are oft pinched with povertie , and Saints who are Kings lie in prison .

It is better to be poore and weaned from the world , then rich and covetous .

Men are much afraid of povertie , yet it never did any hurt .

Pride .

The proudest men are the weakest , and most troubled with discontent .

Principles .

When that which is taken for a principle of truth , is a principle of error , the more it is relied on , the worse it is .

Pleasure .

Such as have their eyes open , see outward pleasures to be very meane things .

Sin is desired for the pleasure of it , but there is in sinne more griefe and misery then pleasure .

The more carnall a heart is , the more it affects naturall pleasures .

Sinfull pleasure ends in sorrow .

Quietnesse .

When quietnesse is in the heart , there is not much disquietnesse in the tongue .

He can easily be at peace with men , who knows he is at peace with God .

Reports .

Such as cannot with patience beare ill reports , cannot live a comfortable life .

Such as are much joyed at good reports , will be much grieved at ill .

Oft times the best suffer , ( the worst reports , ) because they will be no worse .

There is not a good man that can escape evill and false reports from the wicked .

Riches .

Riches are uncertaine , wee must leave them , they insnare many , but there are but few that are drawne the nearer to God by them .

The greedinesse of riches are more sharpened by the having of them , then by their wants .

Riches are the destruction of many .

Commonly the richest men doe the least good to others .

Riches make many afraid to confesse Christ and his truth , &c.

Religion .

It is impossible for every man to be of one Religion and Judgement , because their lights and ends differ .

Where Religion is in truth , it is in power , and enableth a man to practise it .

A forme of Religion onely with riches is imbraced , rather then the power of Religion with povertie .

Most men love that Religion best , which best suits with their lusts , as , honour , pleasure , eas● , and their bellies .

A little Religion goes a great way in rich persons .

Reproofe for sin .

Those that complaine , because they are reproved for sinning , shew their folly .

Poore persons have a priviledge above the rich , in that they are reproved .

Such as are wise count reproofe a priviledge .

Sinne.

Many sinne by omission and commission at one and the same time , and yet know of neither .

Some sinnes of omission may exceed some of commission .

The beginning of sinne is oft by the Devils concupiscence suggesting evill thoughts , evill thoughts cause delight , delight consent , consent ingendreth action , action causeth custome , and custome causeth necessitie : custome winneth strength by time , and is more fierce then nature ; one sinne draweth on another ; grant a little , and a great deale will follow .

The more there is of the will in the acting of sin , the greater the sinne is .

The more deliberation and the weaker temptation any hath , and yet sinneth , the greater the sinne is .

According as mens sight of sinne is , so they hate it , and them selves for it .

The lesse sensiblenesse of sinne there is after sinne is committed , the greater is the hardnesse of heart .

Ignorance and unbeliefe , and want of consideration and meditation , and not shunning the occasion of sinne , causeth much sinne .

Such as the more they fall into sinne , the more they hate it , and are grieved for it , and the more they goe to God against it with faith , they shall conquer it .

Satan .

It is the great designe of Satan to draw the Saints from God , his truth and people , and that we neglect the meanes , or wholly relie upon them ; in good things he severeth the meanes from the end , in evill hee separateth the end from the meanes .

Sorrow .

It is the nature of sorrow to bring the soule downe .

Senses .

Our senses every day decay by little and little , though we take not notice of it .

Truth .

Jesus Christ is the truth , and his word is truth .

No man can teach himselfe or another the mystery of truth .

Whatsoever is without , or against the Word , is not truth .

That which the most men doe is not truth .

The authoritie of men is not alwayes for the truth .

That which carrieth the greatest shew of humilitie is not truth .

Neither the learned , nor the unlearned , can know the truth , untill God shall please to teach it them .

Mans reason cannot dive so deepe as the truth lyeth .

He that is naturally wise , is least capable of divine things .

The greatest enemy that truth hath , is concealement , for the more manifest truth is , the more gloriously it appeares .

If truth may have libertie to goe abroad , it will quickly suppresse errors .

Thirst .

Spirituall thirst is as strong as naturall thirst , yea , stronger .

Time .

Time is not valued to its worth .

Time past cannot be recalled againe .

Time ill spent turnes to great losse , and ends in deepe sorrow .

Temptations .

Temptation tri●th mens strength ; he is strong that stands in strong temptations .

When temptation is absent , a foole is wise , and the froward patient .

Those temptations are most dangerous which suits best with holy ends .

Strong and lasting temptations , are to shew us our selves , and humble us .

An over-much fearing a temptation and a weak purpose to resist it , weakeneth us , and incourageth Satan to tempt .

When we are tempted , it is best presently to fall to prayer , and not to stand reasoning with the temptation .

Trials .

They who are least exercised with trials , have the least wisedome and experience .

Trouble .

There is nothing but trouble under the Sunne .

The lesse trouble men expect , the more they oft meet withall .

A troubled soule cannot doe good , nor receive good .

A soule cast downe by selfe , or Satan , rests not in God , but in trouble .

Selfe cannot stay , nor checke it selfe , much lesse recover it selfe out of sinfull trouble .

Vsury .

To pay use when the profit is uncertaine , is a meanes to fill men with troubles , cares , distrust , if not with oppression .

Want .

It is a sin and a dishonour to a childe of God , to say or thinke he shall want , or to say , What shall I doe ?

A childe of God never wants , though he may thinke he wants ; for he is possessed of all things .

If hands , estate , or friends faile , God will send supply some other way .

He that suffers want contentedly , is a strong man .

Of weeping .

Excesse in weeping , is against nature , reason , and Religion .

Many make a God of other teares .

World .

Such as are full of the things of this world , are emptie enough of spirituall things .

According as the world is sweet unto us , the things of God are bitter to us .

The world is a deadly enemy to spiritualnesse .

He that is full of worldly businesse , needs no other troubles .

Will .

Many prefer their wills before their lives ; for when they are crossed , they wish for death .

When we want a will to do any thing , we pretend want of power , and say , I cannot .

To will is naturall , but to will well , to will spiritually , is supernaturall .

Those vertues that grace the will , as , love , grace , mercy , justice , are more glorious then ●hose that grace the understanding , as power and wisdome , &c.

Weaknesse .

The wisest Saint is most sensible of his own weaknesse .

Weaknesse with watchfulnesse will stand , when great strength with selfe-confidence faileth .

Watchfulnesse .

Spirituall watchfulnesse is a speciall grace of God , a chiefe part of godlinesse , a speciall helpe to holinesse , and a great priviledge of a Saint .

Because the Saints watch no more , they fall so much .

There is no good order in their lives , who watch not .

A wonder .

Naturall men wonder at worldly and sensuall things .

It is no wonder for a naturall man to seeke himselfe in all things .

Zeale .

Every man is zealous , either for God or himselfe .

These few Experiences , I present unto thee for a taste , though many more might be added , which I leave thee to finde out by experience ; also considering there are many sweet experiences recorded in the Scriptures , especially in the Proverbs and Ecclesiastes , and also in other places in the Bible , to which I referre thee .

GRAVE COUNSELS .

Concerning actions .

LEt all your actions have a good foundation , a word of God to warrant them , else they are evill : to do things not required by God , is the error of the wicked , 2 Pet. 3. 17. God will say , Who required this at your hands ? as , Isa. 1. 12. consider Deut. 12. 32. Ephes . 4. 14. First looke that what yee doe be lawfull , next consider that it be expedient , the circumstances of time , place , persons , must be wisely considered : to a good action is required that all the circumstances be good also : Next , looke to your ends , why yee doe what yee doe , for the end and scope of an action conduceth to the being of it : if two duties come together , doe the chiefest first , unlesse workes of mercy and necessitie hinder , and looke to doe every dutie required of thee ; to doe one , and neglect another , is uncomely ; give each dutie its due respect ; and looke with what affections yee doe what yee doe : serve the Lord with the best , and serve him fully for measure and degree ; he that doth these things , his conversation is beautifull and savoury .

Concerning the judgement and affections .

Ever suspect your judgement and affections when the cause concernes your selves .

Often call your affections to account .

When your affections exceed their bounds , aske thy soule the reason of it .

Let not your judgement be taken captive by your affections .

Make not your affections knowne in company as little as may be , unlesse the cause be extraordinary .

Concerning afflictions .

Sleight not affliction , nor let it over-presse thee , it 's appointed , 1 Thes. 3. 3. Rom. 8. 29. There is a fruit of the least crosse , looke more at the fruit then deliverance from the crosse , the longer it continues , the more thou maist get by it .

Labour to know the cause of every affliction .

All that are the Lords , are to stay themselves in the love of God , and attend upon him for the time , manner and measure of their deliverance .

Bondage .

Esteeme that bondage that causeth thee to sin , or keeps thee from God .

Conscience .

Conscience is a very tender thing , and must be tenderly used .

Prize and preserve a tender Conscience , and hearken to the noyse of it .

Take heed yee wound not your Consciences to please your affections .

Creatures .

Use the creatures so as thou beest not unfitted by them to serve God and man .

God gave not the creatures to hurt us .

Companion .

In the choice of a companion consider what soundnesse of judgement there is , what knowledge and sensiblenesse of their own inward corruption , and whether they speak of others infirmities with compassion ; never trust him who will conceale any sinne he seeth in thee .

Crosses .

Be not offended at crosses , they may doe thee much good , and let out sinfull selfe .

Concupiscence .

To avoyd concupiscence be temperate in all things , dyet , sleepe , apparell , recreation , &c. And feare thy selfe , watch thy senses , and avoyd the occasion of it , as , persons , times , places , be frequent in fasting and prayer , and looke up to God for strength against it .

Desires .

We had need to use meanes to moderate our desires to things below .

We should rather endeavour to make our desires equall to our estates , then to make our estates equall to our desires .

Excuses .

Be afraid to cover over any evill with an excuse .

Of errors .

If you would be kept from errors , pray to God , search the Scriptures , and be well grounded in the principles of truth .

Of others falls .

Let the consideration of the many great falls the Saints have had , cause thee to feare thy selfe .

A friend .

Esteeme him thy friend that would hinder thee in sinne .

Griefe .

Discover not thy griefes to many , and choose such as are able and willing to helpe thee .

The Lord is loving and pitifull , able and willing to help ; it 's best to complain to him .

Of good .

To doe good , we live therefore , thinke not much of doing a little good , though it be with great trouble .

Esteeme not that to be the chiefest good , that may be taken from thee .

Concerning thy estate .

Judge not thy estate by thy knowledge , affections , and actions , but by the principle .

Men.

Be sure yee try men well , and have good experience of their faithfulnesse , before yee trust them with much .

Reproofes .

Receive reproofes willingly and profitably .

Reproaches .

Sleight not reproaches , he that is not guiltie , may be guiltie in part , or hath been , or is in another kind , &c. so it 's but a mistake , thou maist be guiltie in the same kind , it may be sent to humble thee , and give thee warning of the same sinne .

Of successe .

Judge not of the goodnesse of thy action by the successe , but judge thy successe by the goodnesse of the action , &c.

Of sinne .

Judge not sin alwayes by the matter or act of it , but by the rule and greatnesse of the authoritie of the commander that forbids it , and bring in all the circumstances and aggravations of it .

Of speech .

When thou speakest of thy selfe , speak modestly , without vanitie and boasting .

Time .

Redeeme the present time to do good , depend not upon the time to come , which is uncertain , and not at thy disposing .

Counsell to the unmarried .

1. THinke not of marrying , untill yee have first sought God by earnest prayer , for strength and contentednesse to live a single life .

2. Use such meanes as may best enable and fit thee for a single life : observe a wary and temperate dyet , company , fasting , and prayer , meditation on God , &c. diligence in thy calling : it may please God by these , and the like meanes , thou maist attaine the gift of chastitie .

3. Be informed of the conveniences and inconveniences of a married life : consider whether you be able and willing to drinke of the bitter cup of discontents , which the married oft drinke of : what cares and burdens attend that state .

If upon the use of meanes for some space you finde God inclines your heart to marry , feare nothing , but cast thy care upon God , and be as wise as thou canst , and venture upon a wife or husband .

1. Pray to God to give thee a wife , ( or husband ) that may be a meet helpe for thee ; a vertuous wife is called a gift of God , the crowne of her husband ; crownes are precious and honourable ; happie is he that hath such a crowne ; Her price is farre above Rubies , Pro. 31. 10. No jewell is to be compared unto her ; shee is worth the asking .

2. Doe nothing rashly , snatch not up the first that comes to hand , prove shee well or ill ; shee may please well for a moment , and be a thorne in thy side for ever after .

3. If thou beest the Lords , marry in the Lord , love such as the Lord loveth : that which is desireable in a man is his goodnesse , Pro. 19. 22. So in a woman : men seeke wealth and beautie , though they have no Religion , but these things cannot supply the want of Religion : great portions , and great stomacks , high spirits , costly fashions , and great expences oft goe together ; externall things will quickly blast , and the most resolved loves vanish quickly , when the fuell of love faileth .

4. Choose one that i● sutable to thee ; first , Sutable in Religion ; how can there be amitie and love , where divers Religions are , seeing no opposition is so strong as that which is for Religion ? Consider Deut. 22. 11. Job 1. 8 , 9. 2 Cor. 6. 15. apply it . Secondly , Sutable for age , some mary as old againe , others as young againe , &c. But unsutable matches are dishonourable . Thirdly , Sutablenesse in dispositions are to be looked to , lest yee smart for it ; because yee are not made of brasse but of flesh , a few odious qualities will in time weare off much doating delight . Fourthly , Sutable in respect of condition of life , and abilitie of body , to labour and fare as thy abilitie requires , such wives as must fare and weare that which is costly , and so weake not able to labour , are fit for such as can beare it , in respect of their estates and minds .

5. Take heed of wronging your selfe , or any others ; take heed what yee promise , if yee give your promise , then your libertie is gone , and another is added to you , it may be to your perpetuall griefe , and make as much conscience , not onely of keeping your promises with others , but take heed lest yee expresse your selfe in such a way as shall justly cause it to be interpreted love in that kinde . A man may make a profession of love , and yet so expresse himselfe as he shall not be ingaged by promise , ( when by his practise he is ) and so at pleasure depart , to the great wrong and hazard of the other partie , without giving any sufficient reason of it ; the wrongs in this kinde are fit to be severely punished by the Magistrate for an example to others .

6. Marry with parents consent , Deut. 7. 3. 1 Cor. 6. 36. unlesse they extend their authoritie to the hurt of soule and body : in some cases the want of parents consent hinders not , as in case the partie hath been married before , or Numb . 30. 4. or Exod. 22. 16.

Mutuall counsell to husbands and wives .

1. HAve you both a high esteeme of mariage , if you prize not mariage , who shall ? you should preserve the honour & comfort of mariage , and say , What is equall to mariage for the being and well-being of life , it 's the prop of mutuall content , the ayd of nature , the perfection of health , wealth , beauty , honour , experience , no condition is sweet where mariage supplies it not , it 's the preservation of chastitie , the pillar of the world , and of the Church , the glory of peace , and the life of the dead ; nothing is so precious in worldly respects as that for which the husband loveth and desireth the wife , and shee him ; no union so strong as this , no joy in any outward union so contentfull as this , &c.

2. Nourish love , and abhorre all occasions to the contrary , strive who shall love each other with the most cordiall affection ; love is given to both , to make the miseries of mariage tolerable , therefore live and love , and cease not to love , till yee cease to live : have a care yee lose not your first love : and so demeane your selves , as may best draw forth each others heart in all love and amitie , and ever be ready to expresse love and sympathy , avoyding a peevish carriage , which provokes to wearinesse , impatience , and discontent .

3. Beare with each others infirmities , fret not , cavill not at them , cover them with tendernesse : If you have a bad bargaine , make the best of it you can , now it is too late to complaine ; impart not your discontents to strangers , aske no counsell of them but with a free consent of both , when necessitie requires it . Observe it , such as complaine to others , they shew their clamorous and turbulent spirits , and want of wisdome and love ; if thy husbands or wives vertues be but small , make them great by contemplation , and put upon them the great value of their worth : an eying each others infirmities , deads and kils the affection of love .

4. Observe each others tempers to prevent discontents , and preserve your first love .

5. If there fall out a difference between you , be both freely willing the word of God may decide it , and to submit unto it , feare breaches , and know a small sparke of difference may increase a great flame , if not timely prevented .

6. Be both chaste , and love each others company , and be faithfull each to other ; let one purse , one bed , one house , serve them that are but one .

7. Be industrious and provident , that neither of you may want .

8. Hinder not each other in serving of God .

9. Tender each others good name .

10. Find as little fault one with another as possibly you can , and then expresse them not in anger , but in love , and when yee be both alone .

Counsell to the wife .

1. LOve your own husbands , and expresse your love in a reverend , amiable and modest manner , in thy husband thou maist behold authoritie , government , forecast , soveraigntie ; from man thou first receivedst thy being , from thy husband thou enjoyest countenance , protection , direction , honour , love , &c.

2. Honour your husband inwardly in your heart , and outwardly in your actions , esteeme him as he is your superior and head , and yeeld to him , let your will be subject to his , you must have no will but his , if he speake the word , you must not contest , but in humilitie yeeld , if he be angry , be yee silent , set before you what the carriage of the Church ought to be to Christ , to be a patterne for you , and know where love is , duties are frequent , and acted with ease and delight .

3. Obey thy husband ; obedience is a hard word , many a proud stout stomack neither will nor can yeeld their neckes to the collar of subjection in every thing ; the Lord knew how it would come to passe , that both husband and wife would both have their wills , though each were quite contrary to the other , therefore God thought fit to order it as he would have it , that the wife should yeeld to her husband , and be obedient to him in every ●hing ; Wives submit your selves unto your own husbands , as unto the Lord ; for the husband is the head of the wife , even as Christ is the head of his Church , &c. Therefore as the Church is subject unto Christ , so let the wives be unto their own husbands in every thing , Ephes. 5. 22 , 23 , 24. Therefore know , O woman , whosoever thou art , rich or poore , that God hath commanded you to be subject to your husband , and if you doe it not , God will call you to an account for it one day , though it may be , your husband be contented to let it passe , in the feare of God consider it , and tremble at the thought of living in the breach of so plaine and cleare a command ; consider Christ is the author of salvation to all that obey him , Heb. 5. 9. and no more ; therefore goe to God for humilitie and selfe-deniall , to stoop to thy husbands command ( if it be lawfull ) 1. Because God hath commanded it , & though mariage be an equall state , yet the carriage of both is not to be the same , therefore let thy love to thy husband be with a loyall sweet subjection , without slavery , and thy obedience shall be a blessing to thee , and an increase of thy inward peace and joy ; also thou shalt avoid many quarrels , envie , and discontents , which others indure , also by thy obedience thou shalt honour God , and be a good patterne to others to doe so also .

Counsell to the Husband .

1. COnsider the command of God is upon you , that yee love your own wives , and be not bitter unto them , let love descend , first from thee , shee is a deserving object of love , shee hath forsaken all for thee , and perhaps is shiftlesse without thee , great are her burdens and paines in conception , and bearing children , &c. Let thy love to her be full and free , love her in some sense better then thy selfe , and let thy love be conveyed to her with royaltie without tyranny : Husbands love your wives , even as Christ also loved his Church , and gave himselfe for it , so ought men to love their wives as their own bodies ; he that loveth his wife , loveth himselfe , Ephes. 5. 25. 28. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh : they two are one flesh , 29. 31.

2. Let her share with thee in the benefit of thy ( graces , gifts , ) estate , if thou hast plenty , let her have plenty also , shee shall be sure to share with thee in the ill , in povertie , sicknesse , disgrace , and other miseries , oh therefore let her share in thy plenty also ; let her have for delight as well as thy selfe , make her cause thy own , and doe so as thou wouldst be done unto , and give it her freely without asking . Some men have much , and spend much upon their pleasures , but allow their wives just nothing ; such give their wives ground enough to question their loves to them , because love is bountifull where there is plenty ; why should not part of that which is yours be hers , for her necessitie and comfort ?

3. Ease thy wife as much as thou canst , though shee be bound to obey thy command , yet it 's like you need not command so many things , or not so frequently , and so the burden of subjection may be much lighter to her ; if shee be willing to obey , spare her ; if unwilling , forbeare her , that shee may sinne lesse . Say not , that thou wilt make her , be not too confident of thy strength to mould thy wife into subjection , as wise and strong as thou art , could not doe it , ( onely God can make a stout stomack to yeeld to a weake and wilfull Governour ) Victory is not alwayes to the strong , Eccl. 9. 11. It 's ill grapling with a head-strong woman , shee may be weake in body , but strong in mischiefe ; the tongue is an unruly member , no man can tame ; be not so mad as to strike thy crowne , nor cast it in the dirt ; if shee answers not thy desires , informe her of her dutie from the Scriptures , and pray to God to set it home upon her conscience ; if God be not regarded , who shall ?

4. Honour thy wife , right her wrongs , suffer none to sleight nor abuse her in no kinde , &c. Follow Christs carriage to his Church , which is most loving , meeke , and sweet .

5. Provide all things needfull for her , that shee may live comfortably with thee ; and whether shee be good or bad , you ought to doe what you can to provide meanes , that shee may live comfortably after you in this world .

6. Dwell with her , deprive her not of the benefit of thy presence , by long journeys , &c. unlesse absolute necessitie inforce it , and rather erre with over-loving thy wife , then otherwise .

Thus I have thought fit to mention some few things , which so much concerne the comfort of a married life . This may be of use to some of those into whose hands it may come , though this is more largely handled in severall Treatises .

The Remedy of feares .

SOme few observations from Isai . 41. 10. Feare not , for I am with thee , be not dismayd , for I am thy God , I will strengthen thee , yea I will helpe thee , yea I will uphold thee , &c.

Obs. 1. Some things are terrible to a Saint , which he is subject to feare .

2. It is the will of God , that his people be not troubled , but to live a sweet and quiet life , in , and upon God .

3. God is alwayes present with his , to keepe them from evill , and doe them good , though they know it not , or consider it not .

4. Feares arise in not beholding the presence of God .

5. The consideration of the presence of God , a remedy against feares .

6. I am thy God ; when a childe of God is at the worst , still God is his God .

7. The knowledge of an interest in God , is enough to raise a soule out of all its feares .

8. I will strengthen thee ; God is ingaged by promise to helpe and strengthen his .

9. The Saints should minde Gods promise , and live upon it .

10. The promise of God is enough to quiet and settle a soule from feares .

11. The weakest Saint with God shall prevaile .

12. Strengthen thee ; there is strength enough in God .

13. The Saints strength is God .

14. It 's in vaine for men to oppose the Saints , for God is with them to helpe them .

15. I will help thee ; the Saints in themselves are weake , and cannot helpe themselves .

16. There is no helpe but in God ; creatures cannot helpe , they are vanitie .

17. So much as the soule rests upon the promise of God for helpe , so much its freed from feares in the greatest appearance of dangers .

18. Vphold thee ; The trialls of the Saints are above their strength , they cannot stand without God , God upholds his .

19. Strengthen , helpe , uphold ; God applies himselfe sutable , and in particular , to the wants of his people .

20. When God will preserve a man , it is not any thing that can hurt him .

From all which wee may observe .

Obs. 1. That the ground of feares are ignorance , as , Psal. 62. 11. forgetfulnesse , Isa. 12. 13. and living by sense , & not by faith .

Obs. 2. That it is unreasonable , and sinfull for a childe of God , to feare men , or be dismayed at any thing .

Reas. 1. Because it 's against Gods command , which saith , feare not , &c.

2. They have the presence of God to keepe them .

3. They have an interest in God , which is a happinesse beyond all miseries .

4. Because nothing can befall them , but what God appoints , who loves them infinitely .

5. Because whatsoever befalls them , shall doe them good , Rom. 8.

6. The bitternesse shall be but short , Rom. 16.

7. Feares never doe any good , but hurt ; they dishonour God , his truth , and people , and oft cause an omission of dutie .

8. Feare is unsutable for a Saint , Rev. 21.

Lastly , feares are unreasonable for a childe of God , because God hath given unto them many great , sweet , and precious promises , that they shall not want no good thing , Psal. 34. For he hath said , I will never leave thee , nor forsake thee , Heb. 13. 5. Therefore they are well enough , they need not care , nor feare , but in God alwayes rejoyce , and sing praises to him .

Now unto him that is able to doe for us abundantly , above that we are able to aske or thinke , be praise and glory in all the Churches of the Saints to all ages , Amen .

A Table of some of the principall things contained in this TREATISE . A. WHat it is to feed upon ashes , 2 , 3. 5. Assurance & faith differs , 82 , 83. All that have faith have not assurance , 82 , &c. B. Christ is the true bread , 3. 5 , 6. Men beleeve before they know it , 61. Men are in Christ before they beleeve , 46 , 47. What all men are to beleeve , 48 , 49. Such as desire to beleeve , have faith , 53. 101. A beleevers comfort , hope , joy , should be alwayes the same , 97 , 116. The state of a beleever in Christ , is a state of perfection , 13. 113. 149. Such as see a beauty in Christ , loath themselves , 23. 41. Mans beleeving procures no pardon of sinne , 46 , &c. C. Christ is enough , 132. and minde him , 112. 113. 79. 131. Christ proclaimes peace to his , 106 , 107. Christ and a beleever are one , 12. Christs holiness is the Saints happiness , 121. Christs bloud saves his , 12. 145 , 147. Christ is the way to life , 13. 36 , 37 , 38. Christ highly esteemes of his , 136 , 137 , 142. Christ being made sin for me , is better for me then if I had never sinned , 15 , 16 , 161. Christ dyed not for the sinnes of Adams posteritie , 7 , 8. Comfort to all that are in Christ ▪ 12. 65. 132 Vnlesse Christ had dyed , man had not been saved , 7. The Saints are to live onely upon Christ , 79. The Saints comfort is in Christ , 79. Who live upon Christ , 15. 38 , 39. 79. 80. Such as are Christs should serve him , 153. The Covenant of grace is not made with man but with Christ , 26. The Covenant of grace is unconditionall on mans part , 46 , 47. There is not any thing required of man to doe to make him partaker of the Covenant of grace , 46. The consolatiōs of God are to be prized , 121. The comfort of the Saints is not to depend upon their personall sanctification , and why ? 114 , 115. The confidence of a beleever should be ever the same , and why , 113 , 114. 121 , 122. All our cares are to be cast upon God , trusting him in all estates , and why , 129 , 130. Corruption may be strong in a Saint , and why , 96 , 97. 159 , 160. A man may be confident of his salvation , and yet be deluded , and why , 14 , 15. 67. Grave Counsels , 363. to the unmarried , 369. To the married , 372. 375. 378. D. Causes of doubting , 65. 105. The fears and discouragements in many are groundlesse . 3. and from the Devill , 106. It is an infirmitie to give way to any discouragement , 108. 79. We are to looke to Christ , and not at discouragements , 52. 113. There hath been discouragements in many of the Lords , 87 , 88 , 89. Grounds of discouragements and feares , 16 No man is to despaire , 158. The time of doubting is a barren time , 71. No man can deliver his soule , & why , 12 , 13. There is death in our best duties , 41. It is not any thing man can do that can make him to be loved of God , 24 , 25 , 97. The Saints daily duty and desire , 199 , &c. Causes of unwillingnesse to duties , 77. E. Election not for foreseene faith , 320. 148. It is impossible for the Elect to perish , and why , 140 , 141. We should be content with our present estate , 130 , 131. 127. Treasure up experience of Gods goodnes , 119. Severall experiences , 331. F. There be divers kinds of faith , 55. Faith what , 56 , 57 , 58. 61. Many are mistaken in faith , 55. Faith is not to be placed in enjoyments , 80. Faith looks not at sight nor feeling , 80. 124. Faith is so small and weak in many , that they cannot discerne it , 47. 83 , 84. 86. When faith is wrought by God in the soul , 45 Faith is where spirituall desires are , 75. 53. We should ever live by faith , 79. 123. Faith quiets and settles the foule , 103. 122. Faith evidenceth to us our justification , 115 The word and promise of God , is the onely ground of faith , 15. 123. The act of faith is a worke , 145. Faith is no condition of the Covenant of grace , 46 , 47. We should not yeeld to feares , 51. 102. We should not feare want , & why , 165. 227 What it is to be fatherlesse , 63. A remedy against feares , 381. Wherein the life of faith consists , 143. The Saints are to live by faith in justification , 154. In sanctification , 154. In infirmities , 156 , &c. For graces , 167. In use of meanes , 175. For protection and supply of all wants , 148. In adversitie , 188. In the life past , 189. For glorification , 193. And to dye by faith , 197. G. God is ready to forgive , 25 , 26. God is unchangeable , 80. 95. 97. God oft hides himselfe from his , 94. God was found of them that sought him not , 34. God is not an enemy to his , though they greatly sin against him , 26 , 27. 97. 146. Gods free grace is to be admired , 127. God gives Christ to enemies , 50 , 51. God never fayles his , 78. God draweth the soule to Christ , 41. The manner of Gods drawing men to Christ , 42 , &c. Gods children are in various conditions , 127. Of the growth of the Saints , 70 , 71 , 72. H. Heart , what , where it is seated , 53 , 54. What it is to give God the heart , 54 , 55. There is hardnesse of heart in a child of God , 100. The heart of man is not to be hearkened unto , and why , 7. We should watch our hearts , 202. Why men follow the counsell of their owne hearts , 10 , 11. Incouragements to hope , 20 , 21. The happinesse of beleevers depends not upon their doings , 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 , 38 , 39. 46. Of hearing the Word , 259. I. How men are made just before God , 10. 121. No effect of sanctification can evidence justification , and why , 115 , 116. It is one thing to be justified , and another to be sanctified , 114 , 115. Who are fit to judge of mens estates , 111 , 128 Many mens apprehension of justification , is not from God , and why , 116. 162 , 163. What an infirmitie is , 155 , 156. When men live by faith in infirmities , 163. K. It is one thing to know , & another to know that we know , 94. 61. L. What it is to be lost , 123. God loves us before we love him , 49. The love of God being discovered , scatters all discouragements and feares , 5. We are not to answer Gods love by our mortification of sinne , 78. God loves freely , 110. 23. False lives men live , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 124. M. Fallen man cannot helpe himselfe , 6. 12 , 13 , The mercy of God is infinite , 25. see 33. 51. Such as have received mercy from God , should be mercifull to others , 130. That which moves God to shew mercy , is in and from himselfe , 24 , 25. Meanes to settle a soule in assurance of the love of God , 105 , &c. Meanes alone are not able to settle a soule , 66 Of Meditation , 268. 122. That Miracles are not essentiall to the administrator of Baptisme , 325. O. The Saints are not their own but Christs , 138 Obedience is the Saints duty , 38 , 116. 130 P. Pray to God , 127 , 128. Of Prayer , 290. We should minde sutable promises , 118. 65. Presumption what , 66. Peace none can give but God , 109. God is the portion of his people , 139. The Saints should rejoyce in their portion , 131. God will pardon a lost sinner , 3. 26. The poverty of Saints , 91 , 92. Q. Mens qualifications are worth nothing , 34. The quiet soul is fittest to receive comfort , 119 R. Mans righteousnesse is not onely imperfect , but also filthinesse , 11. Such as prize their owne righteousnesse , know not Christs , 121. 35. 37. Such as prize their own righteousnesse , are in a sad condition , 37 , 38. That righteousnesse which justifieth us is not in us , 11 , 121. Christs righteousness is the Saints comfort , 39. 22. Christs righteousness is perfect , 10 Christs righteousness is sufficient to satisfie us at all times , 98. 122 , 123. 26. The meanest Saint is as righteous as the best , 14. 139. The Saints are to rejoyce in God , 97. 107. Regeneration , wherein it consists , 72. Concerning reading the Scriptures , 177. Carnall reason to be abhorred , & why , 125. S. Christ saves none but the ungodly , 23. Sin should humble the Saints , 155. 159. 14. Sin drives the soule from God , 5. 62. The greatnesse of sin ought not to hinder any in beleeving , 39. 104. 18 , 19. 21. 112. What the unpardonable sin is , 27. Of sensiblenesse of sin , 62 , 63. To be convinced of sin , what , 40 , 41. 43. Why sin is left in the Saints , 159 , 160. The sins of a beleever are laid upon Christ , & now they are Christs , & not their own , 113. No man ought to allow himself in any sin , 117 It's possible for a childe of God to fall into a great sin , 95 , 96 , 24. Considerations against sin , 233. &c. The Saints have made the greatnesse of sin an incouragement to hope , 22. Why God leaves sin in his , 78 , 79. Whether the combate in men be from the Spirit or no , 84 , 85. The sins of the Elect are forgiven them before they know it , 31 , 32. Satan is not to be hearkened unto , 9 , 10 , 29. What it is to live by sense , 124 , 125. Why men seeke to save themselves , 11 , 12. Such as God saves , he causeth to understand the way of salvation , 5 , 6 , 7. The satisfaction of Christ satisfieth the soule , 7 The holy Scriptures are the word of God , 298 Sufficient grace is not given to all , 307. T. Terrors should not hinder faith , 80 , 81. 87. Temptations against beleeving , should incourage us in beleeving , 123. 86. How a soule tempted may answer Satan , 73. Weake beleevers are not to apply the threatnings to themselves , 111. How to prevent trouble , 120. V. Causes of unbeliefe , 105 , 124. Lying vanities are to be renounced , 124. We should put a difference between Christs voyce , and other voyces , 108 , 109. 329. &c. And between the voyce of the Gospel , and the voyce of the Law , 110. We should know Christs voyce , and hearken unto it , 108 , 109. W. To waite upon God , what , 32. 44. 95. Good works justifie us before men , 151. Deliverance is before our working , 35. 71. Of the freedome of the will , &c. 3. 10. 318.

A Song of the love of God to such as are in Christ . THe love of God hath been to me full great , Eph. 2. 4. In leaving me in such a state to be ; Rom. 3. 9. And then to set me free from this estate , Rom. 3. 24. He gave his onely Sonne to dye for me . Joh. 3. 16. Which is a greater happinesse to me , 1 Cor. 2. 9. Then if I had not been in misery . 1 Cor. 15. 45 I was as vile as any man could be , Ezek. 16. 3 And my vile state did openly appeare ; Ezek 16. 6 When God in love did please to look on me , Ezek. 16. 6 And caused me a joyfull voyce to heare . Ezek. 16. 6 For passing by me , Ezek. 16. 6 he to me said , Live , Which voyce of his unto me life did give . Gen. 1. 3. When I heard this sweet voyce of God to me , Ezek. 16. 6 Vpon my heart effectually it wrought ; Eph. 5. 14. That I was then so set at libertie , Rom. 8. 37. That oft times I did ponder in my thought . 1 Cor. 2. 9. From sin , Joh. 8. 36. Satā , curse , wrath & hell , so free , That I feare not what they can doe to me . Rom. 8. 38. Love caused God for me his Sonne to give ; Gal. 4. 4 , 5. Love caused Jesus Christ for me to dye ; Joh. 10. 18. Love caused God to say to my soule , Live ; Ezek. 16. 6 Love in my soule doth againe reply ( forth Ps. 116. 7. In songs , Heb 10. 7. how lovingly Christ did come A mighty price , Mat. 10. 45 & ransom of great worth . What glorious sight of love is this I see , 2 Joh. 3. 1. That being had before the world could be ; Eph. 1. 4. Without al time , Eph. 1. 4. boūds , measure , or degree , Is this his love which he hath set on me . Eph. 2. 4. One glorious sight of this so great love , Eph. 3. 19. Will cause a soule for to be sicke of love . Song 5. 8. This love made known to me , 1 Joh. 3. 1. made me to muse , That ever God should be to me so good ; Rev. 1. 5. To give his Son for me , Eph. 1. 4. and me to choose , Which was his enemy , Ezek. 16 6 and in my bloud ; When I fled from him , Jer. 3. 7. after me came he , I sought not him , Isa. 65. 1. but he sought after me . The love of God to me is passing great , Eph. 2. 4. Which had a being ere the world began ; Eph. 1. 4. It boundlesse is , 1 Ioh. 3. 2. and every way compleat , And longer doth indure then this world can . 1 Cor. 2. 9. Like love to this hath never yet been heard , Rom. 5. 7. And there is none can be to this compar'd . Rom. 5. 7. That many in their sins should be destroyed , Ioh. 8. 21. Whose first condition was as good as mine ; Isa. 64. 6. And yet to me this mercy is injoyd ; Rom. 5. 1. Thus being freed I shall in glory shine . Ioh. 17. 24. This shews his love to me was great & free , Hos. 14. 4. And could not be deserv'd at all by me . Isa. 64. 6. Oh , Psal. 63. 3. who could wish himself a thing so rare , As to be hemd in , Rom. 8. 39 and compact about , With boundles love , Eph. 3. 19. oh ! who can it declare , Or who by fadoming can finde it out ? Hos. 11. 4. My heart , Eph. 3. 19. my hand & tong are all too weak Of matchlesse love , 1 Cor. 13. 9 to thinke , or write , or speak . It is through faith appli'd so excellent , Rom. 3. 30. It comforteth and elevates on high Col. 3. 1 , 2. The saddest heart , Rom. 5. 1. and fils it with content ; Yea it revives a soule ready to dye . Eph. 5. 14. The apprehending it , brings joy & peace , Rom. 5. 1. When it is clouded , Rom. 7. 24. peace & joy doe cease . Each soule that doth this boundlesse joy possesse , 1 Pet. 1. 6. May well be swallowed up in admiration ; Eph. 3. 8. And to the praise of God may it expresse , Rom. 7. 25. And often have it in his meditation . Joh. 16. 22. Well may it cause him to serve , 2 Cor. 5. 14 feare , and love This boundlesse lover , 2 Co. 13. 11 ever God above .

A Song that Jesus Christ is all in all to his . CHrist is his Fathers chiefest choice , Mat. 3. 17. And I in him the very same ; Eph. 1. 4. Why should I not in him rejoyce , Phil. 4. 4. Who am secured from all blame ? Rom. 8. 38 In God through Christ , Phil. 3. 3. the Saints rejoyce , When they know they in Christ are found ; Phil. 3. 9. Through Christ they with a joyfull voyce , Psal. 66. 1. In singing doe his praises sound . Psa. 18. 49 I now in Christ have beautie bright , Eze. 16. 14 I am compleat in him alone , Col. 2. 10. Being clothed in his robe that 's white , Rev. 19. 8. In him I have perfection . Col. 2. 3. In me God doth , Mat. 3. 17. through Christ delight , In God through Christ I interest have ; 1 Cor. 3. 21 Through Christ I may come in his sight , Heb. 10. 19 And needfull things may aske and have . Mat. 21. 22 My priviledges are full large , Gal. 4. 7. Through Christ my Saviour and my King ; Psal. 2. 6. Who onely under-went the charge , Rom. 5. 8. Me to redeeme , Eph. 2. 13. and me home bring . And now I am by him set free , Heb. 10. 11 Vnion with him for to injoy ; Joh. 17. 21. The thought of it so cleaves to me , Joh. 17. 24. That nothing can me much annoy . Rom. 8. 35 What is it worldly men desire , Psal. 4. 6. But beautie , Luk. 12. 19 riches , and fine fare ; With pleasures , Luk. 12. 19 ease , and rich attire , Things which the world in them do share ? Psal. 49. 6. And what these things to them can be , Psal. 49. 6. The same is Christ to me and more ; Phil. 3. 8. And what thy best workes are to thee , Rom. 10. 3. Better to me is Christ my store . Phil. 3. 7. Christ is my light , Col 3. 4. my life , and power , My Prophet , Acts 7. 37. Priest , and King is he ; My husband , Luk. 2. 11. head , and Saviour , Oh , none but Jesus Christ for me . 1 Cor. 15. 19 Should my performances grow slacke , Rom 7. 18. And should I dead and lumpish be ; Joh. 15. 5. Or should God seeme to turne his backe , Mar. 15. 34 My part in Christ shall comfort me . 1 Cor. 1. 30 Though my corruptions should increase , Ro. 23. 24. And sinne should seeme to master me , Rom. 7. 23 Yet Christ shall be my health and peace , Eph. 2. 13. My strength and righteousnesse is be . Psal. 71. 16 In life and death so shall I be , Phil. 3. 7. For all things else are vanitie ; Phil. 3. 8. What ever my condition be , Rom. 8. 38 Nothing but Christ shall comfort me . Psal. 71. 16 For Christ to me is all in all , Col. 3. 11. In life and death , Phil. 3. 21. advantage he Vnto me is , Gal. 6. 14. and sure he shall More then a Conquerour make me . Rom. 8. 37 And in this doth my joy abound , 1 Pet. 1. 8. That I in Christ am ever found , Phil. 3. 3. Where all perfections doe abound , Col. 2. 3. And I with him shall be crown'd . Rom. 8. 17. Therefore I shall set forth his praise , Phil. 4. 13. And honour him while I have breath , 2 Cor. 5. 14 Yea , Col. 3. 23. him love , feare , and serve alwayes , From henceforth to my day of death . Rev. 2. 10. FINIS .

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