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To the

R I G H T

Worfhipfhll, M'.

Nicholas Iordane

Efquire, and one of his

Ma/efties Iuftices of the

Peace and Quorumjin the

County of Suflix, SIR,

T batb beene an ancient cuflom to referee (ome liyely representation of worthy friends deceafedy therby to continue i

A ? tbe .

I.

THE EPISTLE

I

the remembrance of their j venues, fsrfons, and bye. This holy Treatife enfuing s bath ferVedyou to that pur-pofe^and that $ery fifty; for herein you.have a true re-prefentation and remembrance of your mo ft worthy and lowing Brother, effect-j ally of the mo ft noble and worthy part of him, I meane of his excellent under ftand-ingin the myfierie of godli-nejfe: his moft jealous and earneft will and defire of aU menspratlke ofgodlineffe j And hisfinpere lo<ve unto youjnparticularftnto whom hee primarily diretled thefe

Directions

DIDICATOR.Y.

-*»

Directions unto a godly life f which as they do lively ex-preffie that he bad put on the new man y createdandrenu-edin knowledge\ right eonf-neffe and true holine/Je :fo is it mofi worthy of our re-feriPAtion.j both for the remembrance and imitation of him* Tea, I may confidently affirme, that this faithfu'J remembrancer is mo ft wordy and fit alwales to h carried about us, and daily to be look don by in: for it will helpe w well to put on that new m.m,and to be conformable to our Head lefiu Chrijly arid to walke before

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^P""

\

THE EPISTLE

the. Lord in bolinejje and righteoufneffe all the dates of our life. For there u this difference between thoje former corporall Images of earthly bodies and thti, that men ypitb too much bye and ufe of them, eafily fell into < fuperflitious wickednejfe 9 but thy the more it it loyed and ufed of men, the more will aQ wickednejfe be rooted out of their hearts, and the more will they glory'fie God by a holy life and conyerfa-tion. No'fr haying receiyed thii holy Treatife at your worflips hands topubliflj it unto the WorldJ am bold to

re-

DIDICATORY.

returns it unto you for fafe-gard t both that the World J may know unto whom it is obliged for Jo excellent a mo? nument f as alfo/or the great benefit that /ball be reaped thereby. So(Sir) accounting it a wife part in him that cannot jpeake wellfofay but little ; / commend you and this Treatife to Gods Grace which is able to build us up fartheri eyen to doe won-droufly aboye all that wee can aske or tbinke.

Your WorfhJps humbly at command,

N. N.

Mr ■-

As

„

^£S^

Briefe Directions

unto a godly Life: where. in every Chriftian is furni-

(hed with moft neceffary Helpes for the furthering of bins in a

godly Courfe here upon earth,

that Co hee may atuinc

eternall happinefle in

Heaven.

lire it is, that ic was not thus with man-kinde in the beginning as now ic is.

God created man happy, yet mutable; but Sacan by deceit did caft him from that happy condition; whereby befiiesthe lofic of that felicicy, he was plunged into extreme nufery 3 which confifleth in two things, . I " Fi-rft, \

m »> ■*» ■ >Wf

\

Britfi VntBiont

Firft, in finne.

Secondly, the curie following upon it.

Firft, our finoe is not onely that firft tranlgrcffion of -/**/«*;* wher-by we are all guilty, but alio that in fe&ion of foulc and body arifing from the former. Hence it is that the underftanding is filled with blindneffe; the conscience wounded, (eared, and defiledj the ra-mory forgetting good things or not remembring any thing aright.

The will eaptive, of no ftrength to good, but onely to evill • the affs&iocs all together disordered.

The cogitations about heavenly matters, are errour, falsehood, and lies.

The wifhes and defires of the heart arc earthly, and fleihly. The outward behavioui is nothing clfc but a giving op of the members of the 6ody asinftrumentsof finne.

The curfe maketh him fubfcft in this life for his ufc of the creatures tocftarths,famine,8tc.For his

body,

unto a godly life.

body,to ficknefleand other paines.

la his feafe for his friends to the like calamities; inhisfouleto vile affc&ions, to blindnefle, hard-nefle of heart, defperation, mad-nefle, &c. In both body and foule toendlefle, and eafeleffe torture in the world to come. Yet fomc may objeft thar,

All are not in this cafe or eftate. To which I anfwer:

Ail are fubkft by nature to the fame wrath or God; they which fecle it not, thek cafe is no better, but rather worfe than the other.

Thconely Efficient remedy for the laving of man, is to fithfie Gods juftice^ which by finne is violated His juftice is (aclsfied by filtering the punifhiient due to Gnne, and by the prcfent keeping of the Law. Therefore it is not to be fought for in our fclve^ nor in any other creature. It being appointed by the Father, was undertaken and wrought by Chrift, and is fealed in rr-ens hearts by the ho-

Brift Dtre&hns

ObjtB.

Anjvf.

I

ly Gfaoft: but it -may be deman-dcd:

How did Chrift his redemption become ours ? I anfwer:

God the Father, of his infinite

love^gave bim freely to us,with all

his whole workc of Redemption.

This Divine Myfterie is brought

toIightbytbeGoipell.

The ufe whereof is to manifeft that righteoulhcfle in C h r ist 3 whereby the Law is fully faisfied, and (alvation a r tained.

The remedy and the tidings of it is received only by Faich, which Faith is fo to give credit to Gods Word, as he reft thereon^ that hee will fave him; and is wrought by che miniftery of the Wordj<revca-ling this mercy and truth of God: and by thefe the holy Ghoft in-lightening him to conceive, drawing him to believe^ and fo uniting him to Chrift.

The knowledge of the former things is not fufficient for him chat will come to .happiudTe:

bin

unto a godly Life.

but this knowledge workech.

Firft, he is dra wne by the fecret worke of chc Spirit of. God, to be perfwaded that.the D -ftcine taught doth concerne him : hee fu;h wifdome given him to ap-pjygenerall things particularly to himfclfe: CW. 1. 9. as firft, the Preaching of the Law, and the threatned curfes of it; whereby he teeth himfelfe gailty before God of CiCrnall puni&ment and wrath.

Secondly, the Lord dire&eth him to enter into further confije-, ration with himfelfe, of and about his prefcnt eftate, and confulceth what to doe in this his ex remity; and that not lightly, butferioufly, as a matter of life and death, /irr.8,6. £#^7.15.

If he be not able to conntell hirnlelfe, hce asketh counfell of others.

Thirdly, from the former coa-Citation, he commeth to this re-folution, that hee will not returne to his old waieSjbut h all humility

and

Britfc Dm&ions

I

aad meekncffi and brokenneffe of heart, fay with ?*«/; Lord what wiltthouthatldoe*

Fourthly, by this meanes hce corameth to an unfained defire of forgtvcneflfe, which alwaies pro-ceedeth from a (bund hope chat God will be in treated of him.

This hungring after mercy, and long'ng after Christ, is very earned and fervent,though in fome with more timoroufneffe than in other.

This miketh the Gofpell to be glad tidings, and the feete of them that bring it to be beautifull to him.

Fifthly, withcameft, humble, and particular confeflion of bis finnes, hee poureth out prayers to God for the pardon of them in Chrift.

Sixtly, he having found out this pearle,prizeth it as it is worth i and therefore fclleth all thathee hath, biddeth farewell to his fweeceft delights for she attaining of it$

which

which affc&ion is not for a mo-menr, but is written, as it were, with the point of a Diamond,never to be rafed out againe.

SeventhIy,Then hacomraeth to apply the Gofpell to himfelfe, as before he did the La w,and fealeth up his falvation in his heart, rea-foning from thofe gracious promi-fes which God hath made to fuch as he is.

Thus by often and deep weighing the truth, unchangeablencfll and perpetuity of the promifes, he commeth at length to be fettled in Faith • this Faith uniteth him to Chrift, and bringeth him to happi-nefle. And it is wrought inwardly by the Spirit, while men obey Gods Ordinance in the hearing of the Word, the outward mcanes of falvation.

Now the markes of Faith tobe feenein the belecvcr by himfelfe or others rare

i. If he (hive againft doubting, I*dg.6. 17.

Briefe ~DinUions

2. If not feeling Faith, hee t:omplaine bitterly of the want of it.

3. If hee feeke fervently to be fettled in beleeving.

4. If he defire to ftarch out the finne which may poffibly hinder him,and endeavour to expell it.

The raa?ne caufe why lb many doe want Faith, is the Di veils bewitching, and blinding of men, [ 2 Or. 4. 3,4. Wherein mans fault is, that hee openerh hiseares, and giveth credit to Satans deceitful! fuggeftions.

For the preventing therefore of this danger, the Lord hach given watch-men to \yarnei the people ofthsperilL

The reafon therefore why men doe not avoyd ir, is.either in the Minifter, that hee doth qot warne themjslright, or <\k in the people, that they doe not receive ic.

pithe Minijitrs : x. Ifchey teach nq:-acall.

2.

If

untoagedlyLife.

2. If they teach feldome.

3. Ifthcy teach, but not plainc-ly to the capacity oft he hearer.

4. If by Catechifingthey doe not teach the grounds of Faith in right and good order.

5. If rhcy be not ready by private conference to (atisfie their doubts.

1 6. If they have not a Chriftian care of giving gnod example by a holy and blaaielefle life.

But thcMinifters muft confi-der their duty laid forth:

Firft, by Tides, as Watchmen, Labourers, Mttth.g. 37. Salt and Lighr,<&/4*. ?. 13. 14 Shephcards, lob* 21.15. Good Scribes, AdMth. 13. Stewards, iCor. 4* 1* Nurfes, lTbeJf2,j.

Secondly, in Commandements, i/f£ti20. 28. iTimotb. 4.2. For their better incourageraents, they rauftconfider:

Firft, the honour vouchfafed to them, to be God. his Atnbafla-dours.

Secondly,

Brief* Directions

Secondly, the comfort of this labour*

Thirdly, the good that they may doe*

Fourthly, the great reward pre- 1 pared for them, Van. 12.3,

The lets that are in the People^dre:

Firft, if they efteemc lightly of the Gofpel,preferring other things before it 3 Luke 24.

Secondly, if they imagine it an impoffible thing to get aflurance of falvation in this life.

Thirdly ,if they think iyhoogh not impoffible^ yet not any way neceffary.

Fourthly, if they thinke it both poffible and neceflary, bac too hard to come by,

Fi&hly, if they be carelefle and ignorant.

Sixthly, if for feare of lofing other pleaftres,. they forbeare to fcekeafrerthis.

Seventhly, if they prefume of

their

unto a godly Ltfe*

II

their Faith, living ftill in their Cms.

Eighthly, if there were never thorow brokenaefle of heart prepared to receive the Gofpell.

Ninthly, if for feare of not continuing , they will not begin.

Tenthly, if they doe worke it upon themfelves, but doe deale flightly with ir.

I Eleventhly, if they content themfelvet with fudden flafhes that (bone are out, and doe not (eeke to be fettled.

A naked and baredefire of fal-vation, now and then ftlrred up in a man,is not to beleev*.

Firft, true defire cannot bt fitif-acd without ic,and therfore giveth not over till itobtaheir.

Secondly, it maketh high account of it, as of a precious Faith; and vetoing of it according to the worthineff: ofic: He fcekcth willingly and readily: He iectlerh his hearc upon the proroifesof God.

Hee meditates on Gods Com-1 mandementsj that hse fliould be-

j Iccve: I

• — -

leeve: by thefemeanesheecom-methto be fettled. Which done 4 hee muft beware of all ocafions chat may unfctcle him. Againe, efpcially that he doth pot give too much place to flefhly reaibns and caroall donbcings, nor hearken to evillfuggcftions.

BEcaufc the children of God after they have believed^ are ofcen drawne from their hold,and caufed to fnfpcfted chemfclves,and fo fall into much feare and doubting that they arc none of the Lords, they mnft therefore learne to ftrengthen themfelves thus:

i. They muft know that in God there is no (hado w of change, and therefore that it Utheir weak-nefletoenterraine fiich thoughts, Tfalm. 77. 13. For hee ought not to at ft away his confidence, Heb. 10,35.

2. Hee may perfwade himfelfe that hee labouring after, and gro-ning to reft his wearied heart on

the

thepromifes of God, (hall never be wholly forfiken, chough fome-times deftituce of feeling. Now if any aske,

Why doth God differ hischil-dren to fall into (uch feares? Icis for this;

Left by a .fudden abfolure change, they fhould become fe-cure ox prefiimptuous.

3. They muft know that the roote of our comfort, is not in the ftrength of our Chriftian life, but in the free grace of God in Chrift; and therefore the weaknefle therein ought not to bring us into doub • ting of our falvation. Ic may be weake^ but it (hill never be ex-tingui(hed$for he that is new borne can never die.

4. They muft call to mind that they be yet but children,(ub jeft to manydifeafes, andfomeof thofe, foch as may take away fenfe of life; which muft move us not to difpair, but to feek w th al diligence for the cure of them.-wherasif any objeft,

; ': '• Many

Sg'ft-

Anfvt.

M

Briefe D'ire&ions

£a<P-

Anfw<

arc

Many of the faithfull brought to that paflTe, that being pcrfwaded that they are reprobates, are neerc unto defperacion; they have a feafe of God his wrath, and are in great anguifh of conscience : how ihall they ftay them-felves in this cfhte? I anfwer them.

i. They may be aflbred of this,, that they are not without hope of mercy, becaufe they hare not finned againft the holy Ghoft; for they have not malicionfly fit themfelves againft the truth of God, they have not wilfully per-fecuted it againft their conscience, bat doe love the fame and defire to be partakers of ic#

2. They muft learne to know from whom this dclufion com-meth, even from Satan who Iabou-reth either to wring their hope from them, or elfe to weary their lives with hcavinefle and difcom-fort.This heattempteth:

Firft, by fpirituall fuggcftion,he,

being

J

=*■

un 0 4 f^udly Life.

15

b<*ing a fptritjand helped al/o with the long experience which he hath had of this rr?<fcj and therefore fir; he be irgalfo full of malice, and of u fearchable fubtihy, withexcec-dir g ftrength, and therefore ready thus to trouble us.

Thus he inciceth as to fins, nor onely which by nature wee love, but even to thofe which wee have no inclination unt^* and when be hath thus fattened upon many a man, then he labjureih to dimme his knowledge and Uiiderftandkg, that hec may lay no hold on any truth that may comfort him, or make benefit of any promife.

Secondly, by outward obj-fts and occanotis forcibly perfwadir g to finne. New becaufe thtfe thing* proceed rather from Sathan than fromthemklves, thereisnocaufe why they (hould be difcouraged.

Thirdly, they mufl call to mind that God calleth and enc :>urag< rh us to truti and believe in himj and therefore it muft needs difpLafe

B him

Briefe 'DittUitns

KJ»

ObjeB. Anfir.

Anfi*.

him that they arc removed from cheir faith, to give place to the fpi-rit of error. And how if they feele not the fwcettafte of God? grace > i. Yet they muft not meafure themfelvesby that they prefently feele, when the foule hath loft her feeling; but by the time paft, when they were free from temptation.

2. The fruits of their faith are often evident to the eye of others, whenthemfelves cannot fee them.

3. They muft bee acquainted with the waiesof God, who often doth bide himfelf for a fcafos, that they may with more carneft defirc feeke for his wonted grace, and wich more joyfulneffe of heart praHehim whsn they have obtained it againe. And if this hinder thcm,becaufe

They cannot live as Gods children doe, or as he requireth ; they are to bee encouraged herewith, that

They are plants which take sot tF.c r full perfeftion at once,but by

little

um7 a godlj L fe*

17

little and little with daily watering anddreffing: and that Patience and conftancie with a refiktt* minde U heart Godstriad\ mi ttririga-good end in nB temptatienf.

THat every Chriftiai) may fee his cftate to bee good, itfhall be profitable to confidcr how farre an unbcleever may got; And fo whether hee hath gone further.

1. An unbeliever may bee terrified with hisfinnes, his conference terrified by the fpirit of bondage,

2. He may bee penfive after fin committed, iJftwg.21.7.

3. He may findejoy and delight intheGofpell, and in tbe exercifcs of Religion^iWif. 13.20.

4. Hee may have atafteofthe life to come with Balaam.

5. He may reverence the Mini-ft:rs,and obey them in many things as Herod did, and yet never be fta-led up to etcrnall life. Many that have made great and glorious fhewefj and fcemed to have beene

B 2 very

Briffe DircStions

•^

very forward, havr after either in profjrricy waxed fwamonyor in affliction* wearie; nay, ma^y which have (hi n:d as lights for a (eafon, have fallen away even bcf re trouble canr.Many have had grtac griefc of minde, and fo fcemc unto themfelves to have repented; but yet have deceived themielves a be-caufe they never fur ntfh chemfclves with true faith, a pure heart, a good confidence, change of their life through the love of God; their hearts are not upright, nor they will not deale plainely with the Lord* B^t if wee would no f loft all our labour, wee muft goe further than any uarepentaat p«r-fbn can goe; wee muft never ceaft till wc have more humility, fincc-rity and truth of heart, and cerraine roarkes and tcftimonies of our Salvation.

They will heare the Gofpell diligently: but we muft lay our e-(Hte with it, and receive the print of it upon our hearts and lives,and

bee

■

pgnto a g^dly Life.

be caft into the molde of ir 3 and fb finde ic the power of Salvation.

They will refrainefrom,them» felves, and drive out of their families rainy finnes.

But we muft willingly be reformed in what parr of our life fbever we can bee joftly challenged: and notblemifh our profcffion in any thing.

ALcbough the love of God & Chrift, the worke of the Spirit applying then^and faith apprehending them,bec the chicfe caufe of our converfion,yet becaufe they are not fo eahly felt of us 3 as they are fare and infallible grounds in themfelves of Salvation; therefore it is neceffary to adde fbmeo-rherefFeftsor rather properties of true faith, thatdoaccompaniethe love of God, and of Chrift Jcfus in us; and are the workes or fruits of the Holy-Ghoft by the Go-*fpell, which may more clearcly bee perceived and difcerned than B 3 faith

Briefi DireliioHs

ObjeU*

faith ic (clfe ; and will cleaiely tcftifie^thac where chefe bee^ there (hall that be found aJfo.

The firft inseparable companion of Faith, is joy and comforr, glorious andunfpeakeable, Ali.% 8.3 9. Butitwillbefaidjthae

Some true believers are even (ad and forro wfull*

Indeed they mourne andgroane for a while after that which may make them merry for ever: and in this mourning they areblcflcd. Mtth. 5.4. and their eftate far re to be preferred before the laughter of the ungodly which is but madnos.

u The childc of God being converted cannot but admire this change of eftate f andeven be afto-niftied at the love and mercie of God: What fhould move him to beftow fuch happineffe upon fo unworthy a creature, lob. 14.22. Pfal. 116.8.13934.

2. This holy and reverent admiration muft not bee oncly at our firft converfion, but ought every

dw

unto 4 godly life.

day to be rcnoed in the Lord, who doth every day pardon our finnet % Pfal.nS.S. and doth al(b upheld us in our confidence and integrity.

3. The true believer feeling the love of God to bee died abroad in his hearty 114th alfo withjin him un-fained love kindled towards God, Pplm. 116. i. Luke j. 47. Which love of God muft fhadow 1 he love of all other things what-foever.

4 Hee cannot but have his heart iolarged unto thankfulneffe, andpraifeGod even in afflictions themfelves/P/j/. 116.12.

5. There is begotten a holy and earned defire ro have more communion with God; even to cnjQy his bhfled pretence, and to fee his glory, 2. Corinthians 5.1.

6. The former gracr maketh him toforfake this World, to become a firanger and a pilgrime htere, and (oto have r.o more to doc in frs World than heeneeds mu(t; Not that he leave the necc£

fary

Marie dwics or forfeke his calling) but that hee is doc fo tied co thefe thiog$,buc that he could willingly leave them, and fo being ready to die 3 ismadcficrolive-

7. Hee cannot but lament and be afhamcd of his former uokind-nefle to God,and is ready to be re-tenged on himft lfe for ir.

8. Ir cannot bee, but knowing out of what milerie hee hath efea-ped, and unto what happincfle he hath attained, he pittie others that are as he was,and wi(h and Ltbour to make them as he is.

One means whereof is edifying conference. TV*. 10.21.

1

F any man hath taftcd of that happincfle which comroech by a true faith, and doth therfore ddire tokeepethefame, and fewet h the loefing of it, hee muft for his con* firraation:

I. Nourish within himfdfe daily that high eftiraaticn and account making of his grace,he reuft think

unto a gaily Life.

it hischicfcft happinefle and moft precious trcafurc ; which they chatdoe,have their hearc ever up* on it; they feare the forgoing of if, they regard it moft of all other things.

2. He muft both by prayer daily and oft beg this of God, and al-fo (erioufly meditate on the gracious proraifes ofGod, their nature,* truth, and perpetuitie: for want of this calling to minde of things, many do Ic fl'pout oftheir minds thofegrouads of faith by which fbmetimes they have found com-tort.

3. Hee muft helpt himfclfeby ordinary and reverent hearing the glad ridings ot S *1 virion preached unto him; as alio by the holy u fc of the Sacraments.

4. He muft carefully retaine a viewing of his finnes by right examination^ the fight of them will kecpe him from taking offeree at theCrofleof Chrili, nay the tart-Defieatid bitter efle of hif femes,

will

/■

23

•to

H

9 "

Briefe VinUions

~WI ■'

will make Chrifts death moft fetet and pleafant unco him.

5. Hee rauft libour to fettle himfelfe even by the experience which he hiroftlfe hath found of God his goodnefle towards him, and his working in him.

6. Hee may cenfirme hirofelfc j even by the examples of others, who of weak,have become ftrong, and of luch as bee is., have become fuch as he defirerh to bee: by thefe meancs Gods children come to have a holy acquaintance with God,and to know his will towards them; the Lord difpofing even their weakeneflc unto their good, that they may by their falls bee humbledjand God by their upholding may be glorified.

One efpeciall thing is, alwaies to begin the day with deepecon-fideration of God his gracious favour towards us 5 which if wc doe nor,lhtk can bee looked for in the day^buc either uofavory lightnefle, and fo to be deceived; or unprofitable

table care, and fo to bee diftjui eted. \

By that which bath bin (aid be-fore,it is to bee obfcrved^ chatal-thoughtrue faith bee in fubftance oneard the fame; yet that there are three degreesof it, kis plaine.

i. The firft is the weakeftand leaft meafare., when there is a*yet noafluranccin the beleever, and yet infeparable fruitSjjtnd infallible tokens of if,

2. Thcfecond degree is when (bme aflurance is wrought in the beleever at (bme time, bur very Wcake; and is often to feeke and wanting, and recovered againc by entring into due confederation of hiseftate, and of the truth of God who hath prorciifsd it,

£• The third is the higheft degree of itj though more ftrong and better fetled in fome than in other; and this hath aflurance ac* companying it for the moft part ufually, unlefle the beleever doe quench the Spirit in himlelfc : Or

•

Btiefe DirtQtom

^^

the Lord (co (hew him that hec ftandetb by grace ) doth leave him to himfelfc for his owne gIory,and the better eftablifhing of him afterwards.

It having bin (hewed hitherto who are true beleevers* it follow-ethtofhewbow a beleevcr is to behave himfelfe throughout his whole convention.

i. Wherein is to bee layed dowa,firft, the grounds of a godly life, ate, that it is grounded on fairb, and proceeding from a p jre heart.

2. The parts of ir 3 which is to fly evil^aud doe good.

VNfained faitb,and a godly life, are inftparable c mpanions. I. Firft, godlmefle cannot be without true Iziihjam* i.i&HeK 11 6. Gen. 6. 5.. the fountaine being evil], the rivers which runre from it cannot be good* (o where faith is not in the heart, there can I no godlinefle bee kt the life • by

which i

—...

" ' mm ,

unto agodly Life.

which wee fee how many d^e deceive thcmfelves, thinking they feare,love,and ferveGod ; and yet havcnofaiih, nor no conftanc de-fire of it.

2. Neither can faith bee without godlineflkjfor as no man liveth godly which beleeveth not ; fo no man which beleeveth, can live wickedly -bui as he is new borne, lb like a new creature followeth newneflTe of life and obedience; al'hoiig 1 ] thig doeth not appeare nuhr.t at the firft beginning of his conversion > nor in the ve-herrency of temptation, Tin 12. Neither doth fiuh worke a bare wandring <iz&tz to pleafe God, but it tomes alfo the man unro 1 if, andreAcheth him infome true I and acceptable meafure to goe a-bo t ir and weenie is overmatched v%ih flr(hly corruption, yet tc rafe'h fighings and ftrivings in:hc h-arc, til! it beefubdued. So that as ihey are deceived, which pad torn a little forrow

for

27

Briefe "Din&ions

forfio, tojnewneffeoflife, ascbey imagioe^without faith, the beginning and worker of all new life i fo they alio are no lcfle deluded that pleafe tbemftlvef > thinking they haue faith, when their lives arc not only filled with offeofivea-&ions,but alfb with cuftome & co-raonneflc in the fame.For he that 13 honoured with the title of a belec-ver, muft be knownc by the livery o fan uncorrupt life : and the true iervants of God dare no otherwifc beleevc their (inncs to be forgiven thcm 3 than they waike humbly before God and man,

W Hen faith h laid to bene-cefifiry to a godly life, we muft not onely underftand by faith to be Gved:but that the godly man muft labour to believe, that all the promifts of this life and of the life to come, ( whether the great and principal!, as of the graces of the fpirir,orthefmallcrj as of bodily fafety and preferration from dangers

unio a godly Lift.

\

gcrsfoferre as they (hall bee good for him)doe belong unto him:And befideshemuft beleere, that both all the commandements which teach obedience, and the threat-nings ( because they reftraine the contrary ) are fet downe for him particularly to bind his conference thereunto, Row. 15.4. Thashec rauft depend upon the whole word of God: many who have fnpeto be (aved doe not thus: ,fome finnes they make no conscience of: fbme promifes they looke not at ; by meanes whereof they are not fo well fenced as they might be; but hold the very promife of Glva ion itfelfcvery weakely. This com-mcth to pafle partly becaufe they are not taught the(e things aright: partly becanfe b^ing taught, they do not digeft and work them upon their conferences. This bringeth doubling and unfetledn^ffe crcn rogoodChriftians: therefore hee chat be let yeth to be (aved 3 muft be-leevcalfo that hee (hall befinfti-

fied,

Briefe Viri&ions

i

fied,i CVr.i. 50. that hee (hall rc-j ceivc grace from God to bring forth fruits of amendment of lifc^ and that he (hall be inabled to caft off his old conyerfttion, and alio have grace to goe through troubles,,^ deliverance from them: for afliftance and bletfing in God, he muft depend on God his Word ; this is the obedience of faith^ Rom. 1*5 which if behave as a foonda-to uphold and rcourage us^ ir will greatly availe for the furthering of us in a godly courfc - by this we (hall (boner rcadethrough doubts, and grow out of fear? • whereas o-cherwife wee faint and fcarc oft-times^ar.d be without helpe.

Many examples wee have in fcr\ pture of fuch as thus beleeved, efp^ci^Hy fee dowue in the it. to t»e ffrfcwwjHefc.i 1.16.38.0*/. 2,19. When men doe not thus W3 ? kein theftrcngth of God his •word, if-caufeth tedious troubles

hem, and indeed the offenfive tvvS of many, and che ftarring a-

fidc

unto a godly Ltfe.

3*

fide of fandry, come from this want. But it may be objeftcd,chat ^.. ^ P^Whimklfefeemcdto wancthis, J c ' j for hec found no meanes to per- • forme that which was good, as he j complaineth 3 R(?w.7.i8. Ianfwerj hereunto,that

He coroplaineth not chat he had Anfa. no promife of ftrength, or that bee had no faich in the famc;for he faith the contrary, Tbil. 4,13. but hee complaineth that for all the hope of helpethat hehad,yet the rebellion of his flcfli did mightily ftrive andrefift thefpirit. And this rouft every faithfull man looke for while he live. j

NOw for the fountaine from whence a godly life doth proceed, icisfrom the hem, which therefore muft bee purged and cleaned.

For this wee are to kaow,that the heart of m w,before it be emptied, is a dungeon of iniquity; being

Briefs ~DreUions

m&

folreitbe inlighcened, a denheof darkencffc; before it bee clcanfed, a puddle of filthinefife : and chat which Saint J Amis (peaketh of the tongue,may much more be (aid of the heart, that before it be tamed, icis an unruly evilJ. Nowiffuch an heart bee the guide of our life, how monftrous and loathfome muft that life needs bee? ofnccef-fiey then the heart muft be purged and changed.

This purging of the \\tixi is a renewingin holinefle andrightc-oufheffe by little and little of all true beleeuers, they being fir ft delivered and freed from the tyranny of finne and feare of damnation; for then doth finne receive a deadly wound, and the power thereof is abated and crucified, which is (hewed by the hatred of fiane, and a delighting in good-ncfle.

Although this change bee but weakc at the firft, yet if it bee in truth, in willand defire, it is an in-

fallible

fallible mark of Gods clcftion and love towards him. This grace is often dimmed and even choked ia many, because God dorh ihength1 en and continue this gifc of holi-ncflc and fanft ; ncauon, as it is nonrifhed, cfteemed, fet by, andas men doe ftirre ic up in themfelues,^ by asking afcer ic when they doc miffek, and provoking theraiclvea to pray for fiich good affe&ions and cannot bee fatiified without them; as David did, Pfal.+$ 5. 103,1. Thus we ought to chirifh and blow up the fparkles within us, which will not ordinarily faile us, cfpecialJy for any long time (except in time of temptation) un-Uffk it bee through our default and folly. As for the manner how this is done, wee are to know it is the proper and wonderfall worke of God by the power of the holy GhoG/ABs 1^.9. Tfi.i 1*2* He that hath,with faith unfained, an heart fanfiified,and purified from his natural! corruptions and wicked dif-

pofitior;

ObyB.

Anfwt

Britfe DireUions

mm

difpoficion; as he is not co account it meane and little worrh, ic being an euident worke of the Spiri • • Co neither is hceco (land at a ft ay in this, it being but the beginning of that worke which (hall follow it: Bat, I

How doth God purge our heart*, when as faith is did to doe ii>jt8s,i$.9A*Job.$.').

Faith is truely laid co doe ic: bccaufe that men noc yec affurcd of thehappinesof hea?en 3 not knowing, nor feeling any bectt-r delights doe feekc after thole which their blinde and deceitfull hearts doe dreame efhere on earth.

But as (bone as they are affured of Gods favour through faith, fo (bone are their heartschanged, and their ifFc&ioos (ec another way • fo that faith may well bee (aid to purine and clcinfe the heart, iTet. x. 4, but not as the chic fc and hjgheft caufe,for thatis cheholy Gholi;but a the inftrument.

Thus from faich and a pure heart, I dorb

unto 4 g$ily Lift.

35

doch arife a good confcience, a (w*et pcace,and holy Ctc -'ricyj having received from God a miad to know htm, an heart to love him, a will to pleafe him ; and ftrrngth alio in fome mealure acceptable to obey him.

From her ce doth proceed that true repentance, which is a par-pofe of the heart , ^ff/n.23. an inclination in the will, PfM. 1 ? 9' 44.57. and a continuall endeavouring in the life* Ails a 4.1 6. to caft off all evili,and obey God both inwardly and outwardly, according to the meafure of knowledge in e-very one.

So that this (bund purging of the heart, is that ftrong foundation bipon which only a good life comes .0 be bailded. For God will have our whole heart, not a piece of it, for that is neither befceming hit grearntfle, neither fit for 1 hem to offer who receive (b great good things at his hands; many indeed are hardly brought to this, and

therefore

Briefe T>treft$ons

»«i i ■»

therefore all their f ire fhc wes and colours doe vamlh away,, and come to nothipg,for ra(b and hafty purpofes arc no fafficient foundations to beare up Co great anc weighty buildings, as the whole ccurfe of chcir lives to bee wholly pafied.

But if men at their firft irobra* cing of the Gopiell, did give their hearts wholly to the Lord, then (hould God have more honour, and chcmfelves more abiding com-fore.

NOw having (hewed the ground and rooteof a godly life, viz* faith and a pure heart: it rtmaincs to fpeake of the part*of ir, which is a renouncing of all finne, and a care to walke in a new life. And firft of the former.

The party beleeving is brought to this powcrand grace, that he is oat of love with all ungodlineffe, and not with foroc part or kinde oncly, but.loatheth the whole

courft

uxtoagidlyLift.

37

courfeot iniquity, which was his onely delighcaod pleafure before: neither doth hee this in fome good moode onely, or when fora? Oume or danger approach, then to (hew fome roifl ke of it; bat in good ad-vifement hee is refolvcdtoc*ftoff fuch behaviours a loathfomeand and ragged girmt n*, H0/4. 9 Epb. ^iqMatbaS 24.

For want of this fetled denying of oar fclves, divers never atcaine true godlintflc : fome never conceiving the Doftrine, others forgetting, andfi mefcorningit, but themoft receiving it coldly, and going about ir prepofteroufly.

Whereas the fervants of God leave not finne for a time, nor by conftraint, for or company, and firare 5 &c. but being at utrerdefi-ance wirfi it,doe abiure it for ever; l^bem* 10. 29.

But in all thefe they troft not to their owne Hrcngth : bat daily conlidering what caufe they have ccdotfo; how infinitely they arc

bound

ObjeB. Anfi*.

Br'ttje VireBions

bound to God to difcharge it, become firmely pcrfwaded,that God who hath made them willing^ill al(b make them able V ► do it, Phtl. 4.1%. Rom. 9. 31. andtherfore,al-though they fee not that helpe prefect with their eyes,yet they hope for chat which they fee nor, and therefore wait patiently for it, till it can b? granted them. Thus both both faith and hope being nouri-fhed and ftrengthened in them from day to day, they tfoe fiude both will and defire,& ftrength (though imperfeft ) to accomplifh to the peace of their hearts, that which they let upon and attempted. Indeed it is not obtained without (hiving, but it is no iuft caufe of difcouragement tous,totake paine for (b great a profit, when we are fiireof it before wee goe about it: and if,

The faithfull doe not alwaies prcuaile therein.

As it is true that in fome particulars they are overcome, yet that

doth

I

»— m

unto* godljLife<

39

doth not cut off all comfort from them: for howfoever they doe not account light of any fall, yet thofe very fals turnc to their gaine afterwards; for thereby they come rokoow themftlves better, their prime pride is much afiwaged, they have experience of God his grace towards them, and they cleave more nearer unto him after, and are more circumfpeft in looking to their waics : remembred alwaies that this belongs onely to the true belccver, who having the Lord for his teacher*, is become both slulfull and able to doe this; which to the naturall man ( in whom is no dram of goodncfle ) is altogether impoffible.

AS weehavefcene that finne is to be renounced, and in what manner-fo we muftconfider the divers kinds of evils which are to be

renounced :and they V nw * are of two forts, ^^

C Firft

Briefe DireHiens

I

U Comma**

Firft by inward evils, is not meant the native infe&ionof the heart, but the fruits and efe&s thereof, Umtsi. 14. Col 3.5. and that infuch asprofeffe Religion.

Amongftthefe, the rooteof all the reft is infidelity, Hebrews 3.12. From hence growes out three arraes or boughes, of the which every one fhooteth forth as branches., innumerable worldly lufts.

1. Impious againft God,

2. IniurioustoMen.

3. Moft hurtfull to our felves. Firft, forthofeagainftGodand

his honour and woi (hip in the fill Table.

Againft the firft Commandc. meat; as (touching the Maidiy of God ; ( their hearts are &11 of blindeneffe, covered with darke-nefle;(bit goeth againft them lobe taught the true knowledge of the true God ; ic is death to them to bedrawneoutof theirig* oracce • theyciHr;ot abide to hcareof his , iudgr-

I

unto 4 godly Life.

4*

iudgemenc day, lob 13, t/ffts \ 24.25.

AGd whereas heerequireth,that confidence (hculd bee put in him, for continuall defence,delivcrance and (uccour in foule and body,tbey are carried with diftruft, as with a whirle-wind. In adverfiry they are eichcr overcome with a fervile and defperate feare, or boyling with impatience,, or elfe (welling a-gainft God inobftinacy and con-tempt.

In profperity there is little or no thankefulneffe yeelded to God by them, their reioycingiscarnall, and oftentimes they are made drunke with pleafures,(b that they are lovers of thera more then of God, and become infenfiblc therby and pall all feeling.

And as for the fecond Comman-demenr^hey rebell againft the fpi-rituall and true feruice of God, and that which they yeeld him isa will-worfhip, even that which fantafie^ cuftome,, orflefiily wif-

C 2 dome 1

-»-

i.C^W*'/*

Brief* Dirtttions

cmman.

4. Cumrnvu

dome teachcth them^ Iot>.2 1 •14^15 Matthi*)?. Many are carried by fuperftition and blinde deuotion, into falfc worfhips ; and other uhichretaine the truth, yet in the ufe of religious excrcifes, their hearts take no delight,

So alio againft the third Com-mandement through thecourfe o£ their private converfation, their hearts are alcogether vaine, profane and diflolute., they have no pleafurein pleaSngGod, though it fliould be their meat, drinke and paftime ; his moft fearefull judgements they paffe over lightly, fo far are they offfrorn expellicg hy-pocrifie and other finnes.

And as for the Lords Sabboth and other good meanes appointed on the fame, to ftafon and change their hearts, they (enfibJy loath them,or find no favour in thern,nei-thcr is it any part of their thought tofceke any confbrc by them. Tayic 2 . After thefe wee may confider

thofe

unto a giMy Life.

43

thofe unbridled worldly Jufts., which carry men after the hurt of their neighbour.

What unreverent contempt and obftinacy appeareth to bee ia the hearts of many againft their betters, dirainifhing that authority, creditiand eftimation which God hath given to them; (o that place, yearcs and gifts, are had in meane acconnt ofthera : what unthank-fulnefle in men to them which la^ bour for their good and welfare enter in corporall ox fpirituall things 5 &c.

How againft the good of their neighbours foulcs^ many doe re-ioyce to fee them, nay to make them fall into fioj what unappealable angcr 3 deadly hatred, and bitter feeking of revenge, there is a-mengft me^how readily occafbns are taken to thinking evill of o-thcrs, how lightly men efteemeof hurting others : how none alrmft

x will with Abraham^ Cm. 13. 8.

i pafle from their right to avoid dii-C 3 fention;

S . Common*

6'Cwmi.i*

Briefc Dlrt&ions

7. cmman*

<

*• Comwtn.

9-Commin.

\ fention; how there is no meeknefik or mildneffe to ferbearc others, no burying of offences, no pacifying of wrath, no fellow-feeling of mi-fery.

How men let loofc their hearts to filthy anduncleane thoughts and defires, how they are inflamed through every obieft that pkaftth them 5 how they delight to blow up thofe burning luftes, byallun* clcanctalke, and tofeede their a-duherouscycB by wanton fpe&a-cles, andtorcforc tothofe places, where they may be incenfed by all provocations,&c.

What greedy and unfitiable de-fire there is of gaine, nay of other mens goods^though it be bydeceit

^ind wrong^whatyrepining at other

I mens getfings, What pilling and flcf cingjoppreffion and ufury in all eftates.

How rare thole are that take well, and interpret in the becter parr, things done or fpoken doubtfully, what miftakings, fufpitions,

furmifes

nnto a g^dly L$fe.

45

farmifesdoe arifeagainftour brethren ; even as Saul againft David & J$t7ath*H)i Stf.22.S.Alfb what deriding there is both by word and writing, what (landers, and repro-ches 3 &c.

And laftly, how their defires tend not to good,ncither lead them to God; but arc for the moftpare taken up in wifhing fomewhat of their neighbours to their hurt.

The evils alfo that concerne thcmfelves, are neither few nor finall: inaboundance of outward chings^fttting their hearts on them aad delighting exceffivcly even in the abufe of them, and ioyfeg beyond meafare in things tranfitory, which is the very pride of life.

Gontrarily, fretting, murmuring and vexing themfelves when they fall into exrremicy, or unto frowardneffe,orfjllenndIc, v;hen they are crollcd or difplcafed, deceiving themfclve* with defies of things unproficable,croblingchem-fclves wuh curious medii-ng in C 4 things

io.Cemm*

i:

"Briefe "DirtUions

I

things impertinent, blind-folding

(tbemfelvcs with foolifh love of themfdvfSj&c. •

The lufts wherewith the hearts of men doe fwarrne, and are even burdeaed and Ioden, may eafily perfwade us, that it is divine power and grace from above that muft purge theft and fach like unfivou-ry draffes out of them.

And yet theft and many other fuch like are renounced as they come to bee knowne of Gods fer-vants,and refifted,according to the wifdome which God hath given tbem; although in others they rule aodr&igne, and the obrainingof grace to doe this, is a fpeciall part of Chrifiianity, Efhefians^ 2 2. Co that hee that exercifcth himfdfein obferviog theft his foule and flusmfuH lufts, when hee hath beene led away, and deceived by them, which of them doe mott trouble him, and ofceft prevaile with him, and fb by the helpes which God hath given him, doth

refri

unto j godly Life.

rUift thcrn^ though bacwe-kelyl zni unpcrfttt!y,he need not doubt • b'.;t rhac he is occupied h the godly life.

Thus all Gods children doe renounce and overcome their wicked lufts, though not all in the like meafure, yec of the weakeft they are hated and ihiven againftj whea they are once feene and perceived A'lare not fo meeke as Mofes y Nam. ii. 13. fo faithful! as Abraham y fo continent as Iofefh,Gcn. 3 9 1 j.fo zealous as Ddvid, nor fb full of Lveasthe woman in the Gof-pell: Luke 7.47. yet thofcthat be behind others (fo it be in crtJth that they indeavour) are not to bee di£ couraged^ for all heleevers have not their part in the dme degree of moreificmon,f>me receive thirty-fould, fome fixty f fonie an hundred, and indeed thole who ar^ moftofall troubled for being be- . hindeothcrs, doe declare plaincly^ that they love the grace that they ! monrne for, and bate deadly the j C * corrnn- i

1.

Briefc "DmUiom

corruption which theycomplaine and cry out of,they indeed char fuf-fer chcmfclvcs to bee ruled and led by their lufts, can no waxes claime any pare in a godly life, for he chat is fo minded, cannot be buc carnal, eftranged from God, and a bond man of Hell.

But the weake Chriftians that doe flrive againft tbofr 5 and decline them in their meafurc, may ftay tbcmfelves for their comfort on thefe three fpeciall grac v s.

i .That they have a clearc knowledge of their (alvarion*

2. That they account it as their chiefe treafure,

3. That they be fecled forward in fome plaine and good courfe of life, whereby they may grow in faiths and the obtaining of God, though with forae (triving. But if they walkedeftituceofanyof thefe three, they Qiall bee faar^d much with feare and unquiecneflir.Thefe therefore muft beearucftiy l*bou red for,bt ing of ail things moft ne-

ceffary

unto a gedly'Life*

49

Ctffiryeobclearred offuchas have j attained already co the knowledge of true happincflk by Iefus Chrili: for as a nun knowech nothing pre ficablc unco falvarion before he be-licve:h; fo after he bclieveih, hce knowech nothing profitably to grow on with comfort in his Chri-ftian courfe, without thefe three faithfully andcarefully looked unto and prefer ved.

As for the greater increafe of fiich, knowledge, ftrength agaioft fi:me, comfort and (uch»like fruits of the fpiric • fbmetime the Lord doth withhold them, either because he fceth them in fame refpcQ: not to bee good for us for the prefers, as 2 Cot. 10. 9. orelfe to try u^whether we love them fo well, that we willfceke afcer them ftill or no ^ but for the moft part, if we grow not, it is moft iuftly to bee \ imputed to our owne fault as our ownc ignorance, lloch, favouring I ofoarfclvesinfia : or if thefebe not the auks, then it is our ownc

timer ouf- I

•^-^

Qut&Qft

/Anforer*

*^—

Briefe VireSionr

wmorouf tfl? and aobcliete, fea-ringthatfuch grace as wee dcfire (hall not be given unto us; whereas wee ought to belieue. Nuther need we feare left bybelicuingthis wefliouldbetooboldor prrfcmp-ruous, for God hath promifed ir, and commanded u> ro truft in him, lam a. 6. And if wee faile no: iau-fingthemeanes, flaying upon the Lord by faith • aflur telly hee will not faile nor difappoint us; but wee (hall have grace co guide our ker,tori(twhenwearefilIcn 5 to returnc when wee are ftepped out ofthe-way* and to walke in meft fweet (ififcy under Gods protection all r he day long, 2>**f. 33. 12. Aad finally 3 our gaincs (hall bee ftch, asfiiallcaufe us tomarvaile at Gods goodnefle, in giving us more than we would have asktd.

A Queftton here may bee moved, how che-sMndes and hearct of the believers are taken up ufually, feeing they renounce in ward lufts?

Th^f thoughtsase according to

fbrr

I ' »■!

untoagvdlyLifz.

5*

their divcis growthes and ages, which are three,

i; The higheft degree is old age, or the experienced eftue, which yet is not the perfeft age in Ghrift, for that (hall not befall us till the life to come, buca firms,

! conihnt, and fettled going 03 to that perfefiioi?.

2. The ftcond is the middle age la Ghriftianity, in which 3S young Tien in wreftling,we have courage :gain(tour iiifulllufts.bac yecafcc '

' unco them who have many foiles,

i wee arc ofceatimes cookd in our j courage, though wee fometimes prevaile, ever growiog, though flowly.

3. The third is childhood or infancy, the bweftand thclaft, the which is principally difcernedby an carneft defirc of the finccre milke of the Word, and nameIy,of the promifes of forgirenes of fins; which alchough fome of thefe deare children of God cannot with

j fullafliirance lay hold of 5 yet this

their

w_

Briefe DireUions

i ■ i «i n i -

their hungring defire after it (whichcannot be facisfied without it) ivi^h a feufiblc feate to offend God 3 is a true figie thereof.

The fir ft fort are fuch a s through long experience, and much acquaintance, with thepra&iceof a godly life, have obtained grace to guide themfelves more conftantly than others, and to keepe within bounds: they are much fresd from this bondage, and ftldome lb grolfrly holden under of corrupt lufts as others : which efate, chough it be to be aimed at of a]] godly people^yet it is not obtained but of fuch as have accuftomed their minds to the heavenly courfe, and to whom good meditations and thoughts to fliunne and aroid evill 3 are become a pleaftre; and are as well able to difcerne the fame by their undcrftanding and j jdgeaient, as to have their will jn good fort at commandement to fol. low the good and fhun the evilK Now tbeie have their mindes ufu-

ally

unto agodly Life.

ally fee upon fomc one or other of the infi lice heavenly inttniftioos, which from time ro time they have treafured up in their hearts: whereby,although tbeybenot q jickaed upas they would, ordiirecobe yet chey are held from much evil); they are often coifider'ng of Gods urutcsrahle kindneffe, of mans morcallity, the tnomencary cibte of all things under th; San e, the blcflcd eft ate of the E left, the end-leile woe of the damned, and facb like^hey areofcen behold ing,and meditating of God, h?s \fcjefty, P.jwcr,Wtfdornc,EccrnicyJufiice. Patience,and ling ftiffering, and of his care over them; but a great pare of their daily thoughts is this, I how chey may have a good confei-J ence in all things pleahog God,an J how they may be prepared for the crofle; alfo how they may hoi J out conftantly the profeffioa of their hope into the cod with joy; how they mayrtfift all • ccafions ] of evill 5 whaw lees they {hall findc

from

53

L

X—.

Brtefe Directions

from without aad within. Aad Mly^ how they may order well | their particular aftions in their! callingvhac they may makea good j account at the end of the day, and ; Co at the laft end.

This the firil fort are exercifcJ, ■ yet not wholly freed from evill! thoughef, and vair.e defires, for I Ttfa/wasnot, 2 Cor. 12.9. Ron.j. 24. and God will make them fee t their weakneflc from time to tiaie, j eipecially to fubdue pride in them 5 ! and to hold them under.

The ftcond fort compared to ! young men 3 are neither fotxpm* j enced in Chriftianity as the father,■ nor yet utterly unacquainted ther-with, as the new-borne babes.

Thefeareefpscially occupied in fighting againll temptations, and refiftingunruiyIuftSjZ#/>.2.4. For knowingby the light of the Scriptures, what corruptions they have in them^they watch their hearts diligently, they pray againft them ok and eamtfllv- they are alwaies 1 . J n

unto a godly Life.

55

in fcare left they fhould be overcome, and cafling how they may avoid the occafions of finne/o chat fane becomes odious unco them, yec doc ever over-come of them, but often unfetled aaddiftempered and as often reading the covenant with the Lord to pleafc him better; fometimc difcouraged, but rife againe, glad to ufe all good helps, both pubJike and private, and having prevailed againft greater cof ruprions, are earneftly let agaioft the fm alter, and fuch as feeme leffe dangerous; as the idle roving* of their braine which do not dire&ly fo much carry them after evill, as hinder them from good, they are holden under (bme inficmities,that they may be more humble and not forget what they were in times paft, to that this fecond age and growth inChriftianky is a ft riving rather betwixt fcare and hope, forrow and j jy 3 than a (uperioricy over unruly affeftions; an eftate ftanding in ocedeof counfell aad

help,

help, rather than ficced and experienced to connfell,dire& & fettle others: but the more fare t \ iey be of their falvation, the more expert they fbould be in thebattell.

The third fort compared to little Children, who hang upon the breft and doe! labour for knowledge of their Father in Chrift, and defire the meanes ot their fpintu-all nourifhment, i Pet. 2. 2. their thoughts are taken up in thefe things^ and their keeping them-(elves that they may not offend or difpleafe their father- they are cheerfull while their fmall faith is upholden, by cleaving to the pro-mife; and as uncheerfull when as faith faileth, moaning, and pining if it be long wanting: where they rauft take heede of two perills.

The firft is, left upon pretence of (eekiog continuanceof comfort, they negleft their lawfall bufi-nefle; for Satan appeareth as an Angcll of light.

The fecond,Ieft in want of comfort,

unto a godly Ltfi.

fore, they be driven co any di£ nruftfullor defperate feare; forfo the Divcll appeareth as a roaring Lyon.

Thefe muft grow daily out of their childilhnefle, making all fuch faults as they fpy in them* felvcs and purge therafelvcs from them. With thefe the Lord dea-leth moft kindly, not (hewing them all their corruptions at once, which were enough to difany them- nor how many affli&ions abide them, which wtte like to | confound them.

Thus we may fee in thefe three degrees, how for the moft part the purged hearts of Gods children are taken up^the weakeft of which doe farre differ from the fecreui hypocrite, which of all uniformed, ours come neereft tjiem.

THus having (poken of inward lufts and finnes of the heart, and (hewed how they are difliked aid renounced of all the believers:

The

Briefs VireUiens

The like is to be (hewed of outward finnesof the life,that they be abhorred and (hunned alfb: which is the rather co be confidered 3 bc-caufe many boa ft they have true hearts to God, when their lives are wicked; but to re Joyce either a-bout their falyation, or the good-neffe of their heart: if their behaviour be fiained with outward wickedneflr, and their holy pro-fefflon blemiihed with open and flumefull (ins, is vaine: for none can be truly godly, that doth not indeavour to walke free from of. fenfire evills, if hee doe know them to be fiancs, which may be (hewed abundantly in the Scriptures by Doftrine, i Samuel 7.4. Hof.if.p. t fir.j.u 2?et.2.2o. /rf/H.1,25. Rom. 6.2. By example, Iofepb, G&.ip. 10. JHofefyHei.il. 24. Zjchceu^Luksip.u ofchefin-fall woman, Luk. 7.37. Thefe for-(aking chofe finncs which by nature they Iov~d, and bycuiiome they had long lien in, doe plainely

unto a gtdty Lift,

»«•«■

59

(hew that they believed in Chrift, forfeking their old finnes, though they were never fa pleafiat unco them.

NChwithftanding the former Doftrine be moft plaine for Scripture and reafbn, yet there are many that hope for falvation, and \ yet renounce not open finnc^and outward offences. Thefe are referred to fourc fort?. The fift arc grofie offenders, whom every vile perfbn doth fcorne, becaufehee doth fee their hypocrifie by open and often committed evilh, and hath ChriiVian Religion ic felfe in meane accouat for their caufc; for prophane men I when they fee any walkc Gncercly indeed 3 §c without jjftcaufeofrc-buke,*re little moved at their example, neither greatly reverence them,or take any good by the.but reproach chem rather; bucthatU becaufe they fie (b many, who, befidcsfbmc outward appearance

of

Briefe Viutttms

of zeale, were little better in their lives than themfelves,and thcrfore they are hardncd to thinkc fo of all the reft; which wilfull blindnefle and hardnefle ofhearr,though it be a fearefull figne of God his venge-asce to them, yet this in great part maybe jnftly afcribed to the lives of thofe who profeffing gcdlines,in their deeds deny the fame, 2 Tim. 5, 6. for whom it had beeae better they had never made any profefTi-onat a!l,fuchas SauUi Sam.22, 18. The fecond lore are fuch as being rud<i and ignorant, are altogether careleffe, flattring thcmfelves in that groffe and brutifh eftatc, who have many fpeaches alfo fu-table to their lives^which lay open their hearts to al].

A third fort are fuch, as becaufe they kecpe within iome civill courfe of honcfty, and are free from grofle crimes, tbinke them-felves to be in very good eftate, I though their open faults be many: f:me of thefe (as alio of the for- raer)

HKt0 4g$dtjLifc,

61

mcr) are fometimes pricked in conscience for fiane, or rather for^ the punifhment of it, Exod. 9. 27. and feme kind of change, Mtrl^S. 19. Hof. 6. 4f.Micb.6.f). hey will fometimts make vowes and covenants to doe v?e\l,PfaLjS.36.thty wil&arply reprove oc he r$>Pf. 50. 16. they have fomefuddenflifhes of grace, & yet do want true god-lincfl?, and therefore have their /encence pronounced byourSavi-ouXjMattb.21.^1. and 5. 20.

A fourth fore of profeffers are foch^as for their feeming zcale doe thicks Co well of therofelves, that they cannot brooke or abide any other that differ from them in judgement, they are tauncers, ray-l.rs and fluiderers of their Brethren ; yca,moft (harp and uncharitable and proud cenfurersof their brethren and betters; who are Co fboneripein their owne conceit, that none is mcetecaoughorfuffi-ciencto teach the n, fame aifo inordinate livers, lit. 3. worfe in

thr

^^

Briefe VinZtiws

their dealings than menwhopro-feffc no Religion, etrthly,unquier, andftch like.

The life thus led, is not the life which Godrequircch, neitherarc thofc works which faith affordeth, fothat howfoever God gathereth "' his Eleft out of all thefe kinds, yet are none of them to be accounted as his, while their hearts abide ftaioed with fach corruptions, or their lives defiled with fuch treachery*

AGainft this that hath beece faid, fbrae will be objefting and asking, why fuch difference is made of men ? have the godly no faults? arc they without infirmities? are they not like unto other men in finning ? if it be fo, why fhould they be fhoalcd from the others?

I anfwert that as for differences of men, they are put by the Lord himfelfe, both in naroe 3 converfati-on, and reward, Tfal. i. 2.and 50* 16. 1 Tbef. 19. and the end of the Miniftery,

unto a g

odlyLife.

Minifteryis, to fhoale GodsEleft and b, loved ones from the World, and ro bring them to his fbeepe-fold. Where it is demanded, if they be not partakers of the fame finnes rhac other men are ? it cannot be denied, but the godly arc foracwhat infe&ed with common corrnptionSjliving where Satan is; and further 3 it is poffible they may alfo lie llill in the fame loathfbme-neffe for a feafon; but yet fo, as it appeareth plainly, that they were not given over like wicked men : for when they come tothfmftlves againc, wefcehow ftrangcly they are amazed zt thdr offence, how I they tremble to thinlce what they have done, and can have no peace within themfelvts till they returne home againe after they are gone out of the way, and Co are made more vigilant and wary againft cue like another rime/he which of the wicked cannot be (aid; be-iides the falls of the godly are but when they are fecure and takeli-

65

D

bcrty

■-

Briefs Dirtttions

bercy onto themfelves, 2 Sam. 11. 4. and give over to fence themselves as they are charged jfft£. 4.1. and 3* 12. As forrcprcachfulland flagitious falls,we muft know^that it is poflible for us to be preferved from them, aT^.i, 5.10. fo was Enoch, Abraham, Caleb, and Jfo-/&* j,with many others; but yet as many rare and deare feivants of God have fallen into fhamcfull fins,fo may we: for God fuffercrh bisfervantstofali fo dangeroufly forthefecaufcs.

i. For the humbling of them.

2* That they lee his exceeding faountifulneflc in pardoning fo great finnes, and fo love him the moic, Luke j* 47. 1 An 21.15. and

3. That others farrc weaker than they, yet faithfully maybe encouraged to beleeve that their finnes (hall be pardoned, and their weake iervice accepted of him, as I Tim. 1. 16. which other wife rr ight be difcouraged.Out of theft cafes, if we hold fa ft our faith, and

fland ]

mim

$tnt$A g$dljLife.

—.———— ——— i «■——%—^

ftand upon our watch, wecneede not feare falling, for God caketh no pleafare to caft them downc who dcfire to ftand, but to raifc up them that are fallen, Pfal. 130, jt to he!pe oar wcaknefle, tofapply our wants, and to deliver us ftora fuch dangers as we feare* fo farre ask is expedient • or elfe make us able to bcare them.

Now concerning infirmities, it moft be granted, that becaufe they have ftill a body of finne within thera, they muftneedeibefu6je& to infirmities, and this is properly a fnne of infirmitie, when partly of knowledge, and more through frailcty, an offence is wrought to the difpleafing of God: and when of fuch a one it is committed,as be-caufe he hath his heart fanftificd would not doe it; and yet becauft the power of corruption at that time is greater in him than the ftrength of Grace, therefore hce was foreed to yeejfd to if, fo that in theft alfo the godly doe much

D 2 differ

<7 1

■

Briefs DireQiow

ta^«—*«

differ from all wicked : for ic is their greateft care that they may not fall, their greateft fbrrow when they are overcome^nd their greateft joy, when they doe pre* vaileover theirfins; none of which are to be found in the wicked.

THe heart once purged, as hach before beene (hewed, doch require great care for the keeping of ic Co in good plight afterward 5 Prov^ 2 3% which is done by watching, trying, and purging; wee muft watch, ldi we fhould for the want thereof be deceived with the baits of finne; wee muft examine and try it, becaufe no man can warch fo carefully, but that much evill willcrecpeinj and wee muft pui;ge out that fikhy droffe ofcor-cupiicence which wee fiade by examining, that it fee not our will on fire, to fatisfie and pcrforme the de fires thereof, Pfal. 1 iy.9.

This indeed* is no idle worke.• for he tiutgocth about it muft be

con-

mto a g*&ly Lift.

6 9

concent and glad to weanc his heart from many unprofitable and wandring thoughts «and dcfires: andfoftufbn them with holy and heavenly meditations. But wee may (ceby Scripture^ P/«^3 2.4'y, 6, Heb. 10. 38. and by experience, (noavithlbndingouraiFeftion^be ftfor-g, unruly^ and molt hardly 'fubdued) wi h wbateafewemay renounce and forfake them, and have power over oar will and ap^ peckes,when our heart be thus re^ nued and kept mattered: Whereas, the lictlei acquaintance and ill' governing of the heart, by fctcingit loofe to folly, waudring and need-lefie phantafies, is that which cau-(cth it to be furfehed with al! mar> tier of iniquity,

Againt-jif our hearts be KD€ thus i carefully looked u .to, wee (hall riot hive them ready to any duty. And from hence ic is, that many mens hearts arj fwarviog ufualiy wic'.vaine thoughts, even whiles they are in hearing a id pray fog, D 3 be

I

■J

I

Briefs DireBions

-

becaufe tbey doe noc conftantly throughout the day watch over them: for the onely way to curb our lufts, is to lookc to our hearts,, by it we (hall not onely have help and furtherance to worfhip God arigh t,but in our common a&ions, affaires and buGnefle, we fhould fo behave our felves as would be a joy unto thofe that fhould behold u$j and an ornament and beauty to

I the Gofpell which wee doepro-fefle. Thus therefore wee ought to looke to our hearts in all that we doe, both keeping out evill that would enter, and purging out that which by ftealth fliall creep io, and not by fits oncly, when the good mood taketh as (which as it is too common, fo it is moft dangerous) but alwaies,P/*/« 1.2. lEph. y \6. which if wecfhalldoe, although our hearts being purified and cleanled but in part,our defircs therefore cannot be all good and pleafing to God, but unperfeft,

that

unto a giily Ltfe.

Nr 71

that is to fay, many of them eviU, and many which are wholly mixed with cvill and corruption; yet to have our hearts thu$ changed but in weake meafure^ Co as it be in trucfys a benefit of greater value than the who'e World: and he that hith ic 5 isby infinite degrees happier t^an theraoft glofingprofeffbr that wanretb ic.

THas farre of the cfebewing of evill: Now for the doing of good.

Where firft, certaine rules muft bee learned and obferved, which becaufe they are not followed, many that would gladly live well, attain* to ic in no good fort to bring in in credit with others,, but mcecewith many unfetlings, di£ couragements^and cooling of their zrale, yea oftentimes dangerous out-ftrayingSj neither findc the going abou: it fo pleafant as toile-fome and tedious. Now the ge-( nerall rules are thefe.

C 4 Firft

Briefe Virc&ions

Firftjknowledge ofducie, with a /delighting therein,

Secondly D pra£tife of that: which we know ; which is that living by faich,or labouring to kcepe a good confcience, fo often commended unto us in Scripture.

For che firft, wee muft under-ftand by knowledge, fuch an in-lightening of the roinde to under-ftand the will of God about good evill, that wee have with it fpirituall wifdome, to apply and and rcferre the fame to the well ordering of our particular actions 5 that wee reft not in feeing the truth only, but approve and allow of it, as that which is fir to coun-ielland guide up, but yet (b as hee that hath moft of this, may grow, and he that hath leaft, may not bee difcouraged. J This knowledge muft nor hee weighed and cfteemed of us as a thing common and of no va!ue 3 but loved and like J, othcrwifeno fruit will follow.

For

,

unit j godly Life,

73

For the iecondpra£tice,isthat feckiogto walke worthy the Lord and pleafe him in all things, CoUf. i.io. which muftbeeboth inward and outward.

Inward, when as in relbhuion of our mindes ami defire and pur-pofeofour hearts,, we are prepared and ready to bee (ec on worfcc, and ben imployed in any good fer-vicetoGodor our brethren, Pfil. 119.10. Alt sir. 12. this mud bee often blowne up inu«j for if this bee loll through forgecfulneffe, flo:h, and careleflTe negligence^ or ovcr-vpheJraed with ibrrow* fore, or foch like paflions, or dulled and made blunt in us through lightneffc and vanity,then are we unfit to honour God in any fervice.

Outward 5 when in our lives wee expreffe and declare the fame, by endeavouring at Uaftro pleafe God in one commandement as well as in another, Aft. 9.3. t Thus much of the .rules. The

D 5 vertwes

Brief* VireEtiow

—*«

■i

.—■»■».« linn i i

vermes which farther us herein, follow.

Firft uprightneflTe,wben in a Angle, and true heart, we love,dcfire, and doe any thing, efpecially becau(cGodcommandech,and for that end, Veut. i8*13. Ephtf.6. 14. /0&.i,47«Manya&ioriSothcrwife fervent enough, for want of this fincericy, are but froth(as were the hoc cnterprifes of Ithn agaioft I-dolaters)andcaufethem who have longpleafedthemfelv?* chercin,to cry out of their doings ( though admirable to the eyes of others) to fay they were but hypecrifie, for many are the ftarting holes in the den of our hearts, and many waies wee can deceive our felves and cithers alfo by falfepretcrxcs in good aftions: we ipiift therefore labour that howfeever our beft aftions are mixed with corruptions 9 yet wee may have the fame reioy-cing with the Apoftle, that in finglenefle of heart wee ferve the Lord,

The

unttagedly Life.

The fccond is diligence, where by a man is ready to cake all occasions and opportunities to the doing of (boie good, and to fhunne idlencfle and unprofitableness, i

The third is conftancy in nou* rifhing all good defires, and holy endeauoursj, untill his latter yeares bee better than the former, and fo finifh his courfe with ioy.

By thefe two, great matters are brought copafle : and for want of thefe two, and through the con-trary 3 floch, and inconftant un-fetlednefle; euen the moft of the godly doe not finde the fweet fruit in their life which is to bee found.

Fourthly in humility and meek-nefle, all our duties muft beepra-aiftd, if wee will follow Chriff, Mstth.i 1.29. Thefe two are not particular vermes, which fomc-times onely may haue ufe,but fuch fruits of the fpirit as necefforily are required in all a&ions, lb that

at

:(•

75

Britfc VireQtons

at no time humblencfie of minde and naeekencfife of fpiric may bee wanting. And therefore they arc oft-times in the Scripture fetdown together,as ^£.4.2,(70.3.2.and fo urged,as doth (hew^thac although there bee many goodly gifts in a maivyet if he harhnouhefe, they fhallloofe their credit and beauty amongft thofe which behold them, and withhold their commoditie from him who wanteih them.

By all this that hath becne fold, it is evident that the life of the believer is a continuall proceeding in the departing from evilly, and en-devouring after duties, and a fctled courfe in repentance, and a con-ftant waiking with God: not an idle and uucertaioe Rumbling upon fome good a&ions, whiles a great part of his life is negle&ed and not looked after. But fomc may {ay here, wee have a defire to doe thefe things , but wee want power and ability, whercunto I anfwer that.

The

■ II. I I ■ I » l » I l i .I ' . *. ;

-■' • ri

tint o a godly Lift t

11

Thcbeftdefire is invainc, except wee have with it an aflfurance of God his favour, and hclpc through faith; r or it is faith that o-vercommethail les^i J 0 ^^ this leuethus fee, that he which hath fcvedus from chcgreateft danger of hell, will much more five us from the leffer, of being overcome of our corrupt lufts* A<id if any (hall Qy,that

Saint Vatil himfelfe did nor finde power ro overcome the bodyoffiane? Ic is evident

The holy A poftle did nor overcome all rebellion of the old man, to the end he might alwaies have amarke of his unwonhineffe and fiane remayninginhim 3 and thereby remember, that it was of onely mercy that he was pardoned, and the grace of God that kept him from falling away from him; and that for both thefecaufts he might bee aba fed and kept humble under Co great grace as hee had received : and laft of all, i hat bet '; might

Briefe VireUUns

might from time to time finde jfweetnefle ftillin the forgivencfie ofhisfinnes.

But although hee was not per-feft here as an AngelJ, yet was not hecarryed of his lufts into grofle iniquities, for God his grace was fufficient for him; and (b (hall it be for us, if wee doe as oft and as earneftlydefireit- for every chri-ftian in his meafure may looke for the like grace that Tail had, even ftreogth to performe in fome good fort the dudes which fccme fo difficult and impoflible unto him.

Which is not (b to bee under-ftood/as if every godly chriftian doth fecle or obtaine this ( for that might difcouwge many ) but ro (hew what God his children may confidently looke for, and how their cftate may bee bettered, and their fpirituall liberty increa-ftd. For many good people doe not know what their heavenly father htth provided fo* them, but

onely

unto agodfy Lift.

7?

oncly receive fo much light as whereby they fee the way to bis kingdomcjuccordingto the knowledge that they have of his will; thereafter they declare and Oicwit forth in their lives; but nothing as they mighr^ or as fomc others doe.

THus of the rules and vermes which helpe us to the practice of a godly life. Now to friew wherein it doth confift.

The dutiit arc theft. Fir ft that fcrtaine to God.

Commavdcmtnt u

For we muft defire to know him as his word doth reveale him unto us, in his nature, properties, and workes, wee rauft acknowledge ic is allowed, and in heart yeeld and confent onto the truth of thole things which wee know of hicn, that then we may fafdy and bold-

*+m

Briefe VireUiens

ly beleeve in him, and cleave unco him. Thus knowing oar fclves to be fafe under his wings,we rauft grow co pnc our confidence in him: and from hence will arifcanother, even by hope to looke for chac helpe which in confidence we at fare our fHues of from ths Lrd, and through this confidence and hope, wee muft become patient in in afliftions, and ioy full in every condition oflife. Further, becaufe wee know all good things to flow unto u$ from God, therefore unto him wee lift up our hearts for the obtaining ofchofe things which we wanr; unto him, we render thanks for all bteffings received, and are affe&ed with all our hearts and ftrength to love him more than all the world bcfides, and defire to enioy the more full fruition of his pretence, in the meane time walking before him in all reverence and uprightnefie with a holy and child-like feare as doth become us.

Gom-

\ ** *»

unto a godly Life.

Si

" !■ ■»»

Commandetnent 2.

■

Now bcfidss thefc duties of ho-lincfl?, which wee owe dire&ly to the perfen of God meerely or fpiri.uailandinward: there are o-

ther whereby wee worflup hhn outwardly. |

Where i9 to be kno wee that h^e will allow of no other meanesof worftiipping hira out W3rdly,than he hach appointed and prescribed himfelfciahisword: Astheprea-[ ching of the Gofp^l], and admi lift ring of Sacraments by Minifters lawfully called, publicke prayer, fails, and thankfgtving§j together with the cenfuresof the Church. Theft in publike. In private, there are anfwerable ro thefe, as talking & conferring oi the word of God, in mutual inftrufting 3 adaionifhing exhorting, or any way e!fe which is fit for edifying ; in all which duties, as in many other, that arc good and godly,great care maft be

had

Briefe Di'tUitns

■»■

had that they bee not performed lightly;ra(hly,falfly f hypocritically, and un profitably, for that were abominable to Godasadead bctU fice; but contrarily, wee muft ufe them with all high reverence, being prepared rightly before 5 well aff&ed in theufiigof them, and aiming at the moft profitable end which he hach appointed, that fb we may be approved and allowed ofhira.

Commandment 3.

j Th ere is al(b a farther duty, that 1 not onely in time of his worfliip, but alfoin our common and ufuall fpeech and a&ions, wee declare what a worchyand reverent efti-mation we have of the Lord. As by fpeaking all good of his name, word^and workes, and in our law-full callings, by ordering and behaving of our (elves wifely and gracioufly,thatall which live with .us may (ee that oar religioa is ioy-

ne<t

unto a godly Lift.

H

ned with the power of godlineffe: and thac this bee done of us in all eftatesand condition* of ourlifr, both in profperity and adveifity : labouring alfo to perfwade others to the fame. Now as in all things God muft be glorified, fo more e-fpecially in an oath, which muft be ufcdas with high reverence, {bin truth, in righteoufnefle, and in the beholding of Gods workes v**h heaven and earth, with their furniture; taking fweet feeling of God his Maiefty and beauty which (hineth in them, reioycing with reverence that he hath given us this cleere glafleto bshold his face in for rather his footftoole) which fliould move us therefore in ail our Aftionsto beware of hypo-crifie.

Commandetncnt 4.

Vnto all thefe is one more to be added, viz. that upon thefea-venth day all our workes bee laid

a fide

8 4

BriefeDiteUiens

«•*"

o!

\ f

afidc as much as b poflible, and the whole day to bee beftowed in his worftipandfervice, and in things dire&ly tending to the fame.

Here for the avoyding of that tedioufhelfcin wel!-dcing,where-unto our nature is prone, the Lord hath left us variety of holy exer-cl&SyViz. all publike and private duties, more freely to bee performed than at other times; which wife and mercifull regard of his o-ver us, if it cannot move us to give our (elves to praftife this part of holin$fle r (whatfcever our excufes bee ) wee plaindy (hew, that our raiades are earnail, and that we do j but favour our felves in worldli-nefle or prophaneneSjidlencfTe^and eafe when wee reafon agaisft it, as being too precile,

AFter the duties DTholinefle ' cowards God, follow thofe of righeouibefle to men, for thefe two are j oyntly commanded of the Lord, and ought not of anycobe

<iif-

untoagedlyLift.

iif-joyncd irt praftice, as they are ctf many; Come delighting in the Rrft^boc oegledHag the other; (bme Following afrer ihe £cond,and de-ftkute of the former.

Now the ground roote from which ail chefe duties muftfpring, is love towards all men, even our greaceft enemies. Vnto which muft bejoyned brotherly kindnefleto Chriftians, which is a holy and elpeciall love of one faichfull brother towards another, i Pet. 2.7.

Commandment 5.

The iirft of thefe are fuch as be due betwixt inferiors &fuperiors mutually, vtz. in generail,that ia-feriours in their whole courfe ho-nour their faperiours by voluntary fubjeftion to them, as bjfGods ordinance and appointment, and reverence them,both inwardly and outwardly; and likewise that fu-periours for their parts carry them, (elves towards them as brethren in

all

Briefe Vtrt&ws

all curtefie,faving their authority; and further al(b, that they goe before them in allinnocency and example of good life.

In particularj fbme as Superiors bycivill authority as Piinces, o-thersasNfagiftratcs and Minifters, to whom inferiours both fubie&s and fervanrs muft (ubmic thera-felves in bearing their rebukes and receiving their correftions willingly and without refinance, and in yeelding obedience to all their lawfull commands.

And they, if they bee in higher place, are to provide that the people under c hem may live a godly^ honcft, and quiet life. If they bee Minitters, they are charged to be good and bountifulljiuft and equal unto their fervants. Some are Superiors by nature, as parents,»to whom children doc owe very much, as forwardnes in imbracing iheirwholefome inftru&ion^ re. verence and obedience unto the end, the difoofijg of their eftare

by

H*toagidty Life,

*7

yy marriage, orocherwife, thatic pe not without their confcnr, and readnefle to helpe their neccflicies pec. They areal fo bound to teach them from their youth, to kecpe :hem from idlecefle^otraine them up in Tome honeft and lawfull *ade,togovemethem wifely and kindeIy 3 to provide for their nece£ Sty of marriage, and to minifter things need full for this prefcnt life is they fhall bee able, and as they may doe it rcligioufly and lawfully.

Some by gifts, as chiefly the Minifter,to whom double honour, reverence, and obedience is due, for his wcrke-fake, forheeisnot Dnely a teacher, but a father.

Secondly the ftrong Chriftian 3 fthom God hath endued with a liberall portion of knowledge, wifdorec, experience, and other heavenly graces, more than others af their brethren : theft the weaker muft not iudge rafhly, they muftbearc with their infirmities:

fo

Sriefe Dittftions

fo thole that exccll in any other gifcSj arc to bee had in honour and account for the Cme :Some by age of the gray bead and ancient in yeares, who of the younger fore j are to bee had in reverence ande-i flecmed, neither are we to ncgleft our equalls, but their dignirie and worthinefle is to bee regarded above their owne,, Rom. 12. 10. Thcfe duties we owe unto the per-fon of our neighbour, to which nwft bee added a care to maintaiae curowne reverence and credit a-mongmen, byacourfe befecming our holy profeffion : now follow fomc dutks towards his life.

Cornmaidtmcnt 6.

Firft for bodily life, itisrequi-red that our neighbour fuftaice no hurt by us or any ofours, as farre as we can hinder ir,neithcr hee nor bis, foas his life might bee mad ? unpkafant, yea though hee ftiould provoke us, yet wemuft fiiffer for

rather

»r

r n* ***

-*-*—

uni$*godlj Life.

rather then bee angry in ourowne caufe, fecme it never fo weighty to us, for that is no better than folly and rBadncfle:nayjfunher,we muft be wife and carefull both in words and in deeds, to cut of all occafi-ons, and to avoyd all difcordjyea, though it be with departing from fome of our right, as v^hraham did, Gen. 13.7. Thisinnocencicis accompanied with meeknefle, pa, tiencc and long fuffering. AHo, he that is har meleffe,is gentle, tra&a-ble,and foone intreated, peaceable, communicable, and fit to bee lived with : but yet befides the not hurting of men, it is further required that wee (hould dee them good ; and indeed our whole courfe (hould be fuch, as that wee mig x makeeafieas many mens burthens as wee can : to men that are in mi-fery, we rauft be pitifull and com* paffionate; as by (hewing mercy unto diftreffed fcrvants and fuch like, whom we mfeght oppreffe, as being not able to refift us; by vi-

E (icing

8?

; -

*-

po

Briefe DircUims

firing the ficke, and relieving all that arcioneedc ;and finally, wee tnuft be helpefull unto all 3 to pro-cure and raaintaine their welfare, fbfarreas necefficy fhall require, and our ability can performe. This helpfulnefle hath adioyned unto it mercy and tender compa(fion,kiod-heartedncfle and goodnefle, and fuch like amiable and commendable vermes.

Secondly, fortbe fpirituall life of our neighbour, wee muft give good example of life, we muft take all occafions of winning men to God, of confirming them chat are wonne, of peace-making, of reconciling fuch as bee at variance, of obfcrviog one another, and provoking to love and good workes : and fnally, of inftn> fting, exhorting j admonifhing and comforting, and fiich like duties.

Com-

Htito a godly Ltfg t

9*

Cemmandmtnt j%

After the life of onr neighbour in the next place we have charge of his honefiy, or ehartity,that by no meanesicbe hurt or attempted by as: for the better obtaining whereof, it is required that both our mindes bee kept pure from un-cleaneluftsjdcfires, andthoughrs tending to unchaftnefle, and our Sx>dies in honour, free from all rxecoting of all fuch uncleane de-lires by any ftrange pleasure, which God condemneth, and therefore that all the parts of our body bee kept continent as well as the face, eies, cares 3 tongue, hands and feet bee carried from fuch occafious as may kade us thereunto : And this is commanded both to unmarried and married.

E a .

Cm.

S>2

Briefe DireUiom

CemmtndementS.

Another part of righteous dealing with our neighbour is, that they bee not iniured by us in their goods : ft) that where the cafe is plakie, [that any thing is another mans, wee cannot Co much as lay claimcto if^ but God is dclpifed of us; but if there be acontrover-fie, then in (brae cafes we ought to forgoe fome part of cur right for peace fake ; but if the doubt dorh arife by the fubtilty of either par-the damage ought to fail on them from whom it came, and if it be o-thervvifefo difficult, thatitcaanot bet wixv i herrfelves be deiermrned, let other men of wifdonic take it in hand, or at tbcfattfctft, iffuite cf Law cannot bee avoided., let it be profited in love. This mi ft be obferved in general!: but there are fprciall duties accord irg to the dm rs (latcsof men; for^bme are meerdy poore men, and by

God'

nnto a gtclly Life.

93

God his appointment, doc live by \ almesrotherg cia in forac fort pare ly maintainc themfelves, but not without the helps of others, by borrowing of them. And the third fort is able to lender to giv?, or to doc both.

ij For the firft fort, they knowing that their poore eliate is allor-ted tbem of God, they arc to live" ia ic with contentation ; which contentednefle^ will flow from the aQuranceof the favour of God in Chrift Iefas ;they muft not gruJg-in any (brt at the aboundance of otber men, but ack«ow!c Jge them as the inftrumenta and hand of God, whereby hce mniftreth to their nec.flirics, for the which alfo they muft bnhankefull, and take encouragement from thence tolivegodly and obediently, re-membring alfo, that as much as they bee ab!e, and their bodily infirmities of age, blindneflej lame-nefle^ and fuch other will fuffer then?, that they (hun idleneflk,and

E 3 all

I

Briefc DireEiions

^

all evill and unprofitable paffing the time,

2 For thefecend forr> they muft not borrow without need, as to maintaine themfelves in play, or idlenefle,orfimply tomakeagaine i of it cither by Vfury, or by taking I moredea)i:>giatotheirhands,than their ability will fcrve unto; and when they have lawfully borrow ed, they muft carefully purpofe, l and faithfully endeavour the refto* I ring of that which they have (borrowed at the day appointed, and that with thanks; the contrary whereof, is both a fiane a-gainft God, being a kinde of tbefr, and an iniurie to tho/e chat have neede to borrow;for a chiefe caufc of little lending, is evill paying,

3. As touching the third fort, thofe that are more able,they muft regard both thofe duties which concerne giving and lending, and alfb thofe rules of righteous dealing, which they muft follow in

unto a g*dly Life.

getting, increafmg and ufiog their goods,They muft give freely and cherefully forcharicy and con-fcieoce fake, as the necefliry of the pocre requireth, and their ability will give leave.

They muft lend alfo freely to fuch a borrower as is before de-fcribed, not onely for the appointed time ; but if nccellity urgently rfquireth for farther fpace, nay, (bmetimesto the forgiving either ofaIl,or fome part of it. That men may be Enabled to this duty, they muft be moderate in waftefulkx pencts upon themfelves, or o-'hers, where they need nor, neither doth any charity binde them.

In furetie- (hip they muft not be rafh, neither may wc bee fo hard s but to know and approve Chrifti-ans, fo f me as we are able to bcare che burthen, wee may with good advice bee helpefull even in this kiftde.

Now as for our common dca-

E 4 ling*

Briefe Dirt&tons

\

lings, wee muft firft fee that our calling be la wfoll, then that wee deale lawfully in every part of it, that righteoufoefle may be prcfer-ycd by us, in buying and felling, hireingand letting, and in partner-flbip^&c.Carc mutt be had,that one parcy alone be not regarded, but indUferencyufed (as much as may be) for themutuafl good of both: and therefore VTury, wkerein the common benefit of both is not regarded, is altogether mlawfull.-

Concerting Annuities, they are of two forts, the one is a veerely fum of money for yecrcs,wncn the feller hath no fuch Aunuirie, but as he hopeth to make it by his labour and commodities. The other is a certaine revencw, rent, or pare of rent, which heeinpy-' eth,and is willing to forgoe it.

The firft kindc is full of dan-ger> much like forehand bar-games about Hdppcs,Corne, &c. which feldome ends without jirs and controrerfies, neither ought

to

" V la.

■ i i .»j i' . ■' i \% \

WMi

unto a godly Ltfe.

97

co be made, bat of cho(e who are both able to beare, and willing to ftand to the utterraoftof the hurt which may befall men; ic is nor therefore fafe for thofe that are wife and peaceable, to meddle with thisfirft kindof Annuities. j Thcftcond kindeisnotunlaw-1 full, hjwibever it may be often I abufed on the fellers bchalfe, by fraudulent and crafty Scaling on ihe bthalfe of the buyer ,when hee takethadvantage of theoihers ne-ctffi.y,and Co grinding and griping him worfe than if he had tooke tea in the hundred; for the redreiling whereof, bistobeknowne, that the buyer of fuch an A wuitie, if it be of a rich man, fo as there be plain-dcaling } may fafely enpy the benefit which the otfuruff:re£h; butifitbeofapooreman, or one that is in debt, hee muft give the urtermoft value without feeking advantage; a good token whereof i hefhallfbew, if hee be willing to Lj tclcafchinaaftcrwtrdssthisdclsr ^

E 5 Finals J

1 ■ i « ^ i i ■ i. . i i ■ ■ ■ » - ---.T L

■ j

\

Briefe ViftQtonr

Finally, that all may come by and inioy their right, truth in words, equity in deeds, and Ample meaning in purpo&s and thoughis,rouft be firmely ac d con-ftantly retained ; ar.d where that hath not btene praftifed, fullrefti. tucion is to bee made.

Commaxdemett 9.

As to the perfon andgoods of our neighbour ; Co to his name alfo, there are many duties belonging-As that wereioyce i lour neigh-

hours credit, an#forrow for their infirmities, to hope with pat knee for better thing?, to cover their faulcs through love, of whom we have hope, yet not by fluteryor diflembliog, but by Chrittian admonition and rebuke, not to bewray a fecret, when it may fafc-lyand without di/p'eafing of God bee kept iri; for ev^ry truth isnot alwayestobe uttered, though all

kinds

— — r

>

unto J godly Ltfts.

99

kind of lying and fl Hindering be ac. all times to bee abhorred; their f fatilcs we muft not (peak of after a-ny manner,except firft we have ufed all meaies thacweecanto amsnd them, and then they are with a bi id of anwillingieffe., and loving faith fulaelfc to be opened ; onely to ftchasarclikeftand fi'tcrtco reforms them, and not to plcafeour felyes therein ; neither to ad nit of all reports, but ihoU onely thac have f nne ccrtainecy. We are far- j tber rcqaired to uphold and de-* fend the good name of oar neigh- \ bour,cogiveccftin1oiy alfo unto; him by word and writing. And finally, ft is our duty and upright-f neflk of heart and idodnefle* to in» : terprct all ftch fayingsaid doings: as may bee well taken in theb-lt part, rather centring our felves j truly, than othersra(hly;yet not to be fooltflily credulous, as to iu Jgc r well of them which give open ce- J ftiraony of their badde anJ pro« ! phane hear:*. 1

r

I. -it>o

Brief? VmEtions

0 ii i ■ >■ ■ » *»—■■

!

Ctmmdr: dement 10.

The laft part of dutie towards our neighbour, is co acquaint our hears with tke thoughts and de-fires of his good • or wbatibevcr wee arc in the five former com-roanded to performe to birr j the fame by yertue of this we ought to wifLdefire^and delight in; and the contrary Iuftings mt'ft be caft up and avoyded of us. This- duty (thoughit belittle regarded ofthe n-cft) ought to find the more care in us fortheperfonsanceofir, be-ciulethatthe wel regarding of this will make us the better able to fcrve our neighbour in all the reft.

H therto of the d uric rof holi-nefle and righteoufnefTt • to which if we addc thofc of fobriety 3 which concsrne our fclves^i*. that wee moderate our ,aff ft ions in the ufe of la wful libiitks s ip that we fctve northern, but they us, that wee may feivc G#d the better, wee

(hall

"W i l li I » «■ »

*nt o ag*dly Life.

I

(hall have all things necefHri: to a godly life: from hence we may, fetch light to (hew us the way, and matter to fcafon oor hearts and lives, when we waxc empty, barren,and forgctfull.

Here for avoiding of errour, wee are to know, that this godly life defcribed, the fruits of re-pentance, and the living by faich, are bat (b many fundry manners of fpeeeh wherein the Scriprurcs doe lay forth the life of the rgbteous, or a Chriflian conver-facion: for the bringing fonh of the fruires of amendment, or of repentance, is nothing elfe bat for the perfon who Is adlircd of Salvatioa through the forgive-nefle of his finnes, to turne unto the Lord, and to come under his governement, from the power of Satan, and finne^ and in full purpofe of heart to labour to be reformed irom day to day more and more.

A godly convention is even the fime,

ioi

)

_

Bricfe UireBions

|' fame^ viz,, an endeavouringcolive after chc word of G ^d, which tea-ch«th us 10 believe,tha? he will in-able us thereunto D and b!e(D us therein. So alfo living by faith., is no other but relying upon the word of God, wich fall purpose to bee guided by it, either by retting upon his promifts, or obeying his comonandements : which life of faith, is a rooft glorious and rich prerogative: for by this wee are conti Jeor, and reft quiet about our Saltation from time to time : by this wee walke in newncfle of life in all the parts of ic; by it wee are aflurcd in our prayers to bte preferved, to have the rage of our ttrong lufts weakned /by this wee arc delivered froti many fharpe and bitter affli&ions, and have grace co bearethe reft with great meckenefle and patience; by ic we goe thorow our callings more eafi'y. And finally, wee attaioe to that quiet cttate and fweet peace, which chc caraall wifdome of man

(hall

* i ■ * *- 1

unto a godly Life.

03

Qull never finde nor enioy : with-oat this, any life is moll mifenr Me.

HAving after a fort declared what the Chriftians or believers life is it followed to fhsw fome reafots, why th* believer (h juld leade his life thus.

Firft, there is great canfe why this(houldbe/oughtfor; brcaufe by this God is higblf glorified : for if he bee honoured by the con-verfionofafi^ncr,the:imi:chiHore by his life afterwards. Itwasjfr great part of Salomons honour^ that hcegave filver as floies 3 and goodly Cedars as the wildc Fig-trees : this mart *eics bee a great honour to God, whenheegiveth graces and pofl'effions, which neither filver nor gold can purchafc, and an habitation that neither C*-darnor Almond-tree caa make re* (emblance of * 3 this honour the Lord jjarh in all ages from the outward convcr fatioa frf his fervancs;

and

J

( "

Briefe VireUions

aodyec their bsftthingsaie with-in, and cannot be feene of men, I Pet.i. \2.

2 Another reafon why men fhould-with full refolution, ad. dceffc them ft Ives to paflk the time of their dwelling here with reverence and feare, is, the good that comes unto thcmfelves by it, and the danger which they are in without ic, Trov^* \o. for bee that hath fethimfdfc tofeeke the Lord, and is willingly weaned from unlawfull liberties, and hath made his paftime to be well oc-cupied^hee is al waies fafe^ whereas for want of this, many fall where they little feared 3 for it is not enough that wee purpofeno wickednefle nor cvill, but we mud be firongly armed alwaies with full purpofe againft it, efpecially that whereto wee are moft prone, and wherein wee have had by wo-full trials experience of our weakreffe; for while we doe cotr-mit none,yet wc make a way for it

to

» % ■ '

unto * godly Life.

105

I

■».■■ " ■ *■

o enter into us afrefh, while wee [become fecure aod improvident* This is manifeftly to be fecne in' (the example of Peter, of the Prophet ofBitbeLofluda^ho did all pnrpofe well in general!, yet not fearing their frailety, nor arming themfclvesagainft the lame, they were foonc overtaken.

3 ThisaKo may move us, that no exercife of Religion nor godly meaacs of the beft fort can do them any good, who will not refolve themfelvestocometothisfaithfull praftice of a godly Iifc 4 >This is exemplified fufficiently in chelewes pra&ice, and proved in the Prophets complaints; experience alfo dothwirneffe the fame; for wee ftc many frequent the exercifesof Religion, who btcaufe they pro-pound not with themfelves, to be caft into the mould of holy Do-fttine, and to be fafliioned after ic ia their lives, doe get rather harme than good: whereas o-thers at the fame time, ufing the

fame

Briefs VircBions

^M

fame meanes, doe receive muchp bleffing from God thereby, (uch woe ic is that prophaneneffe of life ( i bringecb with ir.

This is notfpoken for thediG couragcment of aiy, that they ftiould give over the ufe of any good rncanes,butto ftirre us up all for to ficke the true fruit of them ;} for Gods deare children when thew (grow carelefle, loofcthe fruit of good exercife, when they waxe weary of reverent attending upon* God (as all good things the flcfh doth (bone turne to wearincfle)and be gin after the manner of men (with whom they live)to feeke their unlawful! liberty fome way, not being circumfpett enough about the keeping of the beft things in price and estimation ; the Lord feeing this, takech from them the privi-ledges which theyenioyed before, hee dimmeth the light of their miodcs,that they fee not fo clcere-Iy, (hutceth up their hearts that they delight not in the maters

unto a godly Life.

°7 I

jeers whichwere wont to beof giea-reft account and reckoning with them.By all whichic may appears, that much more they that worfliip him with tmcJeane hearty never wjftied and purged, cannct receive into them the fweet and wholeforoe liquour of bis grace, by what outward exercifesfocver they prefenc themfelves before him: and if this be the ftare of many who draw neere uoto God outwardly- how fearcfull then is their condition^ who neither heare his word, nor are acquainted with his waicsatall?

NOw becaufc this ftreight courfe isnoteafily yielded unto, therefore fome things areob-ic<5ted againft ir, which muft bee anfwered.

This life camocbee led, or at ohtU. leaft not with any ioy >

It may fteme (b indeed, becaufe j^ n f w that after they have begun this courfc, many have kept at a ftay.or

elfe

i

. ■

g

Briefc Vire3i$ns

^»

clfe being driven backe/omecora plaine of much tedioufiiefle, and fttong difcouragemears, fearefull doublings^ and fmall comfort in it • divers others account ic a mo-*pi(h life. But for the Anfwer of all >thh, wee are to know, that this Chriftian life, confifting not in fome good aft ions, but in the keeping of our hearts finccre,and up-; rightly bent to walke with the Lord in all his Commanderaent^ throughout our whole courfe, according to our knowledge, is not only poffibte, but required, as the Propherfceweth,PjCi.a.&ii?. 9. 97j 9%. where he tcachetb,that he which is happy and godly indeed, endevorcch to this, that his mind may delight in,andbe poflef ftd of good matters, or rightly u-fiog lawfall, or carefully refifting thofc which arefinfull, Pbil.3.20. The extmpleaKb ofEtoch^Abra-ham y Lb^Mofes y David, with other godly men,who were not without their infirmities no more than we,

doe

uxtoagtdfyLift.

109

<k (hew chcp^ffibilicyof •his hfc$ eithrr is ic a ftate unpleafaiit o the ^iriiuall man, whom the oly Ghoft dir. fteth^ buc eafi?, weete, and comfortable, though it be a yoakc to the corrupt lufts not yet fubdued : for as every one excelleth another in the graces of the fpirk, thereafter is his mealare greater in the privileges of a Chriftian than others, and with more fomd and cooti-nuall comfort doth hee puffe his daies, and free his life from re-proachfull cvills; and the more" that any godly man incrcafeth in goodnefle, and gocth beyond that eftare wherein he hath fometimes bio in knowledge & high etfiiiuti-on of ir,8c ihe right ufe of i he fame, the more fhal his iife b: filled with matter of found & pure rcpycing. Howfbever there were fane in the tircc of thofe fore^ fcrhcr3, yet niw wee fee none live after chat fame manner.

Alchough the life of the moft be

in-

I

Obhtt.

Anf&.

Brie ft tytn&iom

»ndecd vary loathfome, yet their are fo many godly lights amongft us, ) the Lord multiply the number of them, and the graces which heehutfi given them, athoufwd fold, and bee highly pray fed for them) with whom to live, is next to heaven it felfe. Thty do not on* ly not faint or give ovcr>but grow from untowardncflfe to Gocsfer-vice, to a holy cheert^ulncffcand delight in the fame, which growth isfeene alfo in the duties to men as well as to Gi d. Thefe howfo-ever they be but ft w, in refpeft of them who fee themfelves to uphold the corrupt eftate that the world hath evcrltenin* yetfbme fuch, God hath fet amongft us, to farre more great and lingular pur* pofes, than many carnall eyes can fee or difcerne: we muft therefore be wife to difcerne them, ready to love their perfjns,and to reverence thofe precious things that are in them, and by frequenting their companies, karne to imitate their vertues. You

Attfw.

You that urge this ftri& kind of Obiett. ife, doegoe tof*rre, and brag of hat which is not in you, not re-nembringhow many have fallen which were more like to have food than you; itVavid, Teter, kc. It is good for all toprofeff? no worfcthan others doe, andio heir fals (hall not bee fomuch wondered at.

By the grace of God, bragging s farre from us, neither doe w* go too far the word being our warrant ; but we are not afraid :o utter that which we know, nay wed ire doe no otherwife, though it bee a-gainft our felves dS much as others, if wee (hall fet light by it at any time; neither are we any thing the nigher, but much further from falling, by fpeaking the truth boldly. If at any time we fall, wee looke to feele the bitter fruit of the fame being afiured alfo that we (hall rife agajne. In the meane time, God will have this holy life prattifed of others, whatfoever become of

us*,

Briefe ViuBtons

us* his ttuthremainethfor ever: the true worfh'ppers of God muft depart from iniquity % 2 Tiw.2.19. As for thetal 1 ot V*vid y Peter J &c. They ariie from Jccuricy, and the wane of this watchfull courfe which i$ urged, and therefore fhould be motives uuto us, the more carefully to looke to our fclvesjeft we alio be overtaken.

Men cannot now live oihcr-wife than they have done, efpeci-ally after this manner • fo that neither husband nor wife, nor one neighbour with another can be merry together.

As for change of eftate, there is no cauft why wee fliould feare, or be unwilling to change for the better : as for delights, there are none more fweet,chan thofe which have ground in Religion : but tho/e that cannotftand with a godly life, let them, in the name of God, be broken oSfot they may as well be fpared as the paring of our n*iles, and therefore not fufficjenc to juftle

out

>■

unto a godly Life.

oura godly life, from the praftice of any true Chriftian and Believer.

THe Chriftians life being thus described; now becaufe icis upholders by meanes, it is fit to know what thefe mcanes are, and how they may be ufed aright.

Thefe raeanesare fuch religious cxercifes, whereby Chriftians may be made fie to prafikife a godly life. They are partly ordinary, and partly extraordinary 5 and both of thefc either publike, or private. The publike, arc fuch as be ufed in our openaflemblies: ordinarily thefe are three.

Firft,the Miniftery ofche Word.

Secondly, thcadminiftrationof the Sacr3menrs.

Thirdly, the exercife of prayer, with thankefgiving and finging of Primes.

Of private, fome are to be ufed alone by our felves, as watchful-neffe, medication, and the Armour of a Chiiftian, ymh experience.

F Some

Briefe Directions

Some are to be ufed with others, as focicty of conference, and Family- exercifes- fome are common to both, as prayer and reading.

THe firft and principall is the Word of God^ead^Preached, and heard^as the Lord prefcribeth. That this is a Angular helpe, wee may fee, ifweeconfider the truth, authority ^ ibfficicncy, and phinc-nefle (through the Mioiftery and tranflations) which is ia the Scripture.

To fpeake therefore nothing of the benefit which it bringeth unco the unregencrare, untowhomicis of might to convert them. The tries arc many and daily which the regenerate people of God have by it.

Firft,by it they are cleared from errour and darkenefie, about Religion and manners, and are made more fouad in the knowledge of the truth, and fee more particular-

*y

unto a godly Lift,

,i. 5 I

ly into the way and whole courfe ofChriftianity.

2. They grow fettled and efta-blifhed in their knowledge from | day to day.

3. Thry are by this quickened in their drowfincfle, cheered in their heavineflfe^called backe from their wandrings, railed up when they are fallen, and counfelled in their doubtfull cafes of advice,

4. They are by it fettled in a god* ly courfe, and taught to keep well when they are well, rather than to befickli &inconfiant in good carriage of th mfelves, as many are. For by ir,as by a Sunne that giveth light in all places, they efpy their weaktntiP, and how they are hol-den backe when they are fallen, and which is the right way of proceeding: By it, as by a rule, they are taught to frame all their ifttons.

5. They are brought to beftow forae time in pofuable reading.

6. They are framed fo, as they

F 2 be-

Briefe Directions

Imitm

become lights and examples to others: fo that wee may boldly conclude, that the ordinary preaching of the Word, is a Angular Hieanes provided for the perfefting of Gods Ele#, and for their growing in a Chriftian life. And whomever liveth where there is a good order of teaching with diligence, skil,love,and plainenefie;if he find not this fruit by it, ic is becaufc he is not attentive and reverent in hearing, hee is not prepared before to heare, or elfc doth not apply unto himfelfe, nor willingly digeft that which hee hath heard; but is forfeited of fome dangerous qualities in his life, or corruptions in his heart; among which, this is a (pcciall one among the people, that as they thinke of the perfbn that teacheth, fo they doe of his Do&rine,, and not othcrwile.

AS for the Sacraments, they are helps neceffarily adjoyncd unto the former: for they doe vifi-

bly

unto a g$ily Life.

"7

bly confirms and pacific that which chc Word dcth teach, and the covenant bcewixc God and the believer made, is moft furely fealed up and effectually on both partiesby them,

Firft, the Lord for his pare hath granted to every faithfull perfbn, that he will never call his fones to a reckoning, but will be his God, and love him to the end through Chrift; for the ratifying whereof, hce hath put to his /eale : fo that the Sacraments mufi needs remaine efFe&uall to the faithful I, both for the ftrengtheningofhis faith in the promife, and alfo for removing of allcontrary doubts which through weaknefie might arift. So on the other parr, every believer foi his owne part hath covenanted, to truftinGod alwaies, toindevour to walke before him confeionably, in righreoufiefle of heart andin-nocencie of hands.

Now of the truth of his heart, the Sacrament is a figne- which he .

F3 having 1_

Briefc DireBions

having received, hath openly pro-ftfled thereby, that he hath given and cunfecrated himfelfc unto the Lord, and is now no more his owne to live as his carnall will would defire; (o that either the prefent receiving, or the frefh re. membrance of this,doth fpurre him forwards to keepe his covenant, andincouragehim againft temptations, weariforanelTe, and allhin-deranccB^efpecially believing, that ftrength in meafure (hall be given him of God to performe that which he hath promised and fealed. By all which we may fee f that how-foever the Sacraments be unto the unbelievers, even as amyfterieor hidden thing, yet the believer having been foundlyinftrufted therein^ beholdcth much, both for the ftrcngthening of his faith, and his incouragementin a godly life,

Firft, this may be fcer.e particularly in the two Sicraments: for thefakhfull Chriftian which hath beene baptifed,as he by his hgraf-

fing

1 7 1*

nnto a g*diy Life.

ng intoGhrift, is onewithhim; and therefore whileChrift liveth,

uft live alfo: fo he having there* by prepared union and fellowfhip with him, doth draw ftrcngth and grace from him 3 even as the branch from the Vhe, viz, The power of his death for the mortifying of tin, and the venue of his rcfurrc&ion in railing him up to newnefle of life. So that Baptifme throughout .his life, muft needs be a forcible meanes to helpe him forward in a Chriftian courfe, as ofc as hee doth dulyconfider it.

2* Likewife that the Lords Supper is an excellent helpe, we may fee in three fpeciakies: viz*. i. In the preparation ro if.

2. Intheprcfentufcofit.

3. In the time which followeth afcer.

1. The fi-ft confifteth in the trial!, thac every man ought to rake ofhimfelfe, concerning his knowledge both generalland particular, his faitiT in Gods proraifes, his di-

F 4 ligent

119

Briefe DirtBions

..

ligent indevour for the removing and fubduing of all time, and fot' readincfle in any duty, his love to-wards all men : and Iaftly, concerning his hungring after this Sacrament, and the berefic which God offereth by it.

Theft properties if heefindeto be in himfelfe, hce is a tic and welcome gueft to the Lords Table; but if through floch,forgetfulnefle, darkaefle, corruption and weakened, theft graces be weakned, dimmed, and decayed, he may not rafhly put forth himfelfe in that caft 3 but fpeedily fteke to recover himfelfe againe, by ftarching the ground and ftrious renewing of his faith and repentance. Which things being fo; it cannot be but that this kind of preparation muft be a lingular helpe to thoft that in-joy it.

So likewift at the Sapper it felfe, where hee may, and ought to meditate on the dainties of the banquet, and the love of him that

ordained

■ *i

unto a godly Life.

121

ordained it; on the CommunioQ hefiaTFTwlfhChrift^ndhisgracc*;^ and on the outward figncs what they affjre him of; and on the Word preached., which fheweth him all this. When as by the applying of thefe chiogs hecommech to be comforted and rrudeglad 3 or rather to be revived andejjickned in his (bale wkh the fpirkuall dainties which by true faith hee feedeth upon; how can hee but praifeand bleffe the author of this banquet ? howan hebutbs much heartned 8c fet forward in a Chri-ftian courfe ? Ic is alfo of the fame force after the receiving of ir^ ( where right ufe is made of it according to Gods appointment) through the remembrance and due confidcration of the kindnefle of God therein offered and reaped, eafily to carry on the fervant of Godi.ia fervent defire of all well doingjbe heartened an<iftrengthe-ned thereunto, even as a man wcl! ref refhed with meat is ma4$ ftrong,

F 5 to;

«■■

Briefe "DinUions

I

>.

!

f

1'

I

to labour : (o that hee which is noc made more able to conquer his lufts, and weaken the ftrength of fione, and is net more heartened to the life of godlinefle bythefe Sacraments, doch abnfe them, and feeth not Gods purpoft in ordaining them.

THe publike prayers folemnly offered to God in the Congregation, and praifing of him withPfalmes, is another of thefe publike helpes : for when befides our owne private (upplicacioDs and thankefgiving, wc hive by the Lord himfelfc appointed thefe alio in publike, and that in (b fo-lemnea manner, the whole aflem-blyconfenting with us in the fame, and Godprefent among us toaffift us, as he will, becaufc the very ordinance of God doth promifc a bleffing thereto, as oft as wee are partakers of them, £b that if wee come with reverence, feeling our wantSj eatneftly defiriog and miffing

untoag$dlyL'tfe.

123

-|

fting to obtaine the things we pray fcr,together with true repentance, J wee (hall receive fruit of them accordingly, even that good refreflh-ing, whereby in private we (hall be more cheerefully bent to ferve him.

So that neither any prejudicate opinion concerning the Minifters perfon (chough hee be dumbe, or orberwife offenfive) nor yec any rafh judgement of reading a fee forme of prayer, or any thing of the like kinde, ought to hinder us from thefepublikeduties 5 neither ought the private helpcs to be neglefted of us upon any pretence^ without the which the publike are but cold.

THe firft private help is watch-falneffc : which is a carefull obfer ving of our hearts, Prcv.q. 2 5. Diligent looking to our waies, Pfal. 3 9.1. that they may be plea-fir g and acceptable to God. The neceffry of this help may appeare

man?

Briefe VinStonr

many waies, for without this, fo-briery is lotf, i Pet, 5.7. and the force of our prayers abated, Mattb*26. 1. and for want of this (as experience ihewerh) many Chri Aians are not acquainted with a well ordered and fettled courfe, but out and in, off and on, never ftaied;and becaufeof the contrary carelefneffe and fecuricy, many, not evill mco are plunged into fun-dry noyfome temptation?, finde many wounds in their foules, and want many comforts in their lives; fo that fome are as untrufty as Cjc-bazi,fomc as hafty, furious^ and unlbciable as T^alal wa s *

The manner of this watchful-neffe is fee downe by the Apoftle, 1 Tim.4 5. to be in all things, and at all times, and by all occafi-ons^in all places,with all perfons^ and that constantly, fo long as wee be in danger of temptation, Marker^ 33.

All of us tljertfore that defire 'o walke with God in peace, mtaft go

about

umo a godly Lift.

about this duty to purpote, and fee our minds and delight upon it $ our evill lufts, wherewith wee be full fraught, doe carry us headlong into fundry iniquities, in fo much that wee can gpe about nothing but we may feele (if we can difcerne) that fome one or other of them is in our way to hurt us, and at band to moleft and difquiet us: if we be occupitd in fpirituall duties, wee have fhame and hypo-crifie on the oac fide to hinder us 5 dulndfe, wearinefle, untoward-nes.&c.on the other fidg to breaks us off. In thingslawfull,we are fe-cure & careleflc what the maner or end be: in evilljWe have eyes open tofeethefecming pleafurejor profit they promift,and reafbntoex«-tenuate the danger; but we have no eares to receive the ftrongeftdif-fvvafions that can be brought. We therefore muft be kilfulltoknow thtfe difbrdered lufts diligent to efpy, prevented avoid them; wee mult abftaiue and weaneour

(elves

"5

% \j

-n*

I

126 Brtefe Vire&ipns

—

felves from that which our hearts would naturally dciire moft 3 1 Pet. 2 10. wee muft not dally with the baits of finnes, weemuftnotbefo bold as to venture upon all companies, to fall into any talke, or to take liberty in any defires without re/peft. And mto this care wee muft adde prayer, as that which doth quicken and put life to it, (b that ip may be continued with much cheerefulneffc and little te-dioufnefle.

It is further alfo to be marked, that becaufe the firvants of God have fomefpeciall infirmities wherewith they findc themfelves more troubled than with any o-ther, they muft be moft fufpicious of, acd vigilant againft them: and where they fee Satan moft likely to winde in himfelfe, there they muft carry a more narrow and ftreight ye, avoiding tbe leaft occafion that tends that way,andbeftowing more time and labour inthcroo-iing out of thefe corruptions,from

the

!

mxoagMfyLtfi.

\

the which moft danger may be feared. As in troubles we muft watch agaii ft impatience; in profpericy, againft wantonncfle., becatife theft arc Iikeft to enfue; and when wee have broke out of our conftant courfc a little, and that our con-fcience begins tochecke us, then wee muft cremble to thinkeof it, reeurne ipeedily againe, and wee muft feire afcer,lcft wee (hould offend.

This may feeme unto many to be too ftrift, that our hearts may notra^ge where they lift, nor our delights be fattened where wee pleafe, but that all powers of our minds and members of our bodies muft be holden within compafle. But unto thofe who are acquainted with it, and fee what fafc peace, andfwret joy it bringeth to their life, it is no tedious bondage, but a (pirkuall and heavenly liberty .On the other fide, thofe that will not be perfwaded to cntcrraine it^they muft looke to live deftitute of a

chiefe

*■—

Briefe Virettiens

i

chiefe pare of godlineflV; or if it be but now and then in fomeefpeciill aftions and parts of our life regarded and looked unto, it will make the godly life in great part to be bereaved of her gaine and beauty.

The fecond private help is Mt-ditatim 5 and that is when we doe of purpofe ftparateour (elves from all other things and confide* as we are able,and chinke of fome points of inftru&ion neceffary to leade us forward to the kingdomc of Hea-r ven, and the better ftrengtheniog us againft the Divell, and this pre-ftnt evill World; and to the well-ordering of our lives. This heavenly communion with God and our fcl^es, is that which the Fathers called their Soliloquies: which muft bed'ftinguifhedfrom the ordinary thinking of good thiogs,andpondring of words and anions, which yet in the Scripture is called meditation, Jojb. i, 8,-T/i/119. 97. for that ought never

to

unto a godly Life.

129

to be wanting, being a pare of watchfulnefle 3 andisexercifcd together wich prayer; bit this is more folemne., when a man of fee purpofe doth ieparate himfelfe from other bufimffe, to folace himfelfe in thefe holy and heavenly thoughts.

The matter of this our meditation may be on any part of Gods Word, of God himfelfe, on his workes of mercy and judgement, of our owne eftate, of the vanity andmifery of this world, and of I the manifold privileges which wee J withthereftof Gods children enjoy: but cfpecially of thoft things which wee have mod efpeciall neede of.

The gteit and neceffary ufc of this duty, may well appeare even in the heart of good Chriftians^ in which there is much naughtineffe; fo many rebellions;, and ioathfome filchineffrjthae k rnaketh fomc de-fpaire of reforming it, and therefore they ceafe to endeavour it;

yec

Briefe VireUicns

yet if fuch noifomc poifbns be differed to lurk and remaine in them, they will not only as fower weeds choakc the plants of grace within us. but alfo grow up themfelves, and bring forth moft noifome and dangerous fruit, as by wofull experience men feeleand cry. Now for the weeding ofthefe out of the ground of our hearts, there is no means* Co availeable,as the confi-dering ofr^and deepe meditating: vi*. co finde out what fwarmes of them doe lodge in our hearts; alfo to bring them into a vile account, to be weary and aftumed of them 3 and (b to entertaine better in their roome ; for al» though by the Word wee know our corruption^ by conference we revive the remembrance of them, and by reading we doe both* yet all this will be but of (ball force, except they be )oyned& fcafbned with medication. For our hearts are (bdcceitfull, that if once wee can but commend that which is

good

I

unto a godly Lift,

131

I

good, and fpeakeagainft evilly we are ready cothinkethatonrelhce is right marvellous good; whereas ye^ if there be not in the heart a hacred of the one, and love of the other, wedoe but deceive our felve?. Now, when wee doe often gage thefc hearts of ours, and fift our thoughts, and deale truly (in accufing or excufing) as wee love our foules; though wee finde finne to fit neere and faft glued, yet by Gods affiftanceand blcffing we (hall breake o AT and chafe away theft curfed fwarraes of prophane thoughts and defires; we fhall become better armed againft them afterwards, and our heart being thus mollified, anirelentiig, wee (hill furnifh them more gracioufly with holy thought?, and heavenly defire^ and draw them inco more neere and heavenly communion with our God; taking heede of the ftgred baius of earthly delights, and tranficory pleafurcsof this world. In (umme, thefruir and

bene-

Briefe "DireUions

■»•

benefit which by oar medication and private prayer wee rcape, is fo j great (the Spirit of God changing our hearts thereby from their daily courfc and cuftome more and more, and bringing the heavenly life into more liking with us, and making it more eafic and fweete which wich the men of this world isfo irkefbme and unfovoury) that none canexprefle and conceive it, but hee which hath felt the fame. Therefore it is that the men of God, who are mod commended for their piety, both of old, as MofesJ)avid,?aulfiLc. and in our times alio, are moft taken up of this exercifc; and others that are ftrangers to it, though they be good Chriftians, want much fruit which by it they may reaps.

The lees which are enemies to this duty, they are of two forts; for either they are fuch which hinder men altogether from going a-bout if, or elfe ftch as keepe them from taking any good thereby » when

(

i

unto ag$dlyLift.

133

hen they enter into ic. Qf the brmer fort there are three.

1- The firft is when a Chrifti-n knowing this duty to be requi-ed of him 5 gocth about ic> but ee is fo empty and barren that he ath no matter to beftow the time and his cogitations about. Now for the remedy of this, there (hall be rules and examples fit downe hereafter: but in generall, it (hall be expedient for him to propound unto this his meditation thefe foure things,

i. Firftj of his unworchineffe, vilencfle, finnes and corruptions

2. Secondly, thegreatnefleof Gods bounty in his deliverance,

3. Thirdly,how he may be guided throughout that prefent day, according to the rules of dircftion, elpecially in the hardefl points.

4. FourthIy,of the (everall parts of the Chriftian armor which God hath appointed for his ftrengthe-niog.

2. The fecond impediment of

this

*34

Brieje Virt&ions

\ this fort, is an unfit mind unto fpiritaall and heavenly duties, through feme unfctledncffe, fl Jth-fulneffc, or other corruptions.

Now the beft remedy for fuch a one, is to meditace of his prcfmt unfitneffe, loofentfie of heart, and earthly-mindednefleto count itan heavie burden to accufe his heart, and Co to bring it to relenting, by confidering howfarreoffit ispre-(ently from tha^ mildneffe,humble-iiefle^ heavenlinefle, andreadinfle unto duties which have beene ia him at fome other times: but let no man give any liberty in any fort to his evill heart, when it isturned away from chceref nine fle and wil-lingnefle in any part of Gods fer-vice to goe forward therein, for that were to bring him to utter bondage.

3. The third let is, want of opportunity by reafon of neceffary bufinefle taking up the time; or for want of convenient place, as it failed) out to fea-men, and thofe

that

unto a g$dly Life.

*35

;hat havefmall and poors houfcs : boncerniog which, it is noc to be ienied but chat there may fome-:ime fall out fuch bufinefleasmay sxcufe us in the omiffion of this duty; and this muftberemerobrcd rbat the ordinary duties of our callings muft noc put this dutie out of place, for if chey doe, ic is through unskilfulnfle, or untowardneffe cf them who commit this fault: one of them is appoiured of God to e with the other, and both of xhem ftand together in upholding of their inward peace. If any man b^ rich, hee hath theleffecaufe to be holden from it by worldly care; if they be poore, they have the more need of it to moderate their care, that ic exceed not, nor carry them to unbeliefe : but if any intend, or pretend extraordinary bu-fincfle, they muft take heede that they feeke not cloakes for their do- h: yet if any have neceflary lets iadecd, hereby they (hall appearc to be fruitlcfle if at any time God

be

_ I

Briefe Uire&ims

■«-%.

be remembred feme other way as foall be mod convenient 1 , and thisj duty fupplyed when the hinde-rarce ispait.

Of the fecond fort oflets which may be called abufes,thcre be especially two.

i. Thefirftistoufcitflcightly, and (o to make a ceremony of it: the remedy whereof is to hold our mindes wich taking delight in it; for this, and all other good helpes willbeunfavouryuntous, except wee (hould fallen a love and liking on them.

2. The fecond is when although we be defiroustoufe meditation, yet our heads are (b full of trifling and wandringfantafies,or worldly matters, that we cannot mind heavenly things: the cauft of this is the letting looft of our hearts all the day difbrderly, without watching over them, or keeping them within an holy compifle. Fofcthe remedying of it, wee muft therefore carefully fct our (elves agairft

the

unto a godly Life.

i »37

:

•

he corruptiorts of our hearts, la« >ouringtodry ; } d thole fwimiBing oies with the flame of heavenly md fervent afFc£Uou$; wee muft :ie up our loofc hearts throughout he day from their deadly cu^ome ;f ranging after vaine,fond,and de-:eicfu]l thought*, dreames andde-ight8;this whofbeverdothornoc t all, or feldome, or coldly, they ofe a great part of their f wect and )ltflcd living hcre,noi in/oying the enthp^rt of thofe privileges and ibertics, which God h;th provi-ied for them in their PiIgriimg-%

The Rules of dire&ion in me-litating bethefo

i. Hec who dtfireth to have ifielpe by meditation, muft weigh how flippery 3 fickle, and wandering his heart is infinite waies to his exceeding hurt; and that hce innft of neceffity appoint fonie fet time to check>rcclaime,and weane : t frcjoi the fame, Unm. 17. 9.

2. Hce muft warch over r

G heart <

l$%

BritfsVircttitnt

—»—

»*"——• *•

heart (having bccne (b often deceived by it through hit whole life) and have it in fufpicion, that fo it may be more fie to be drawnc to iuch heavenly cxercifes, and attend unto the fame.

3 • This being obferved,Iet him draw matter of meditation and prayer from bis owne wants acd infirmities* from Gods bencfics > from the changes and mortality of this life, &c. cfpecially of that which is moft availeable for this prcfenr.

4. If hee cannot doe that, let him reade fbme part of the Scripture, or other booke fie tofeafbn and well afFe& bis minde, that Co his mind may be quickened to the performance of this duty.

Particular meditation concerning duties to be praftifed.

No man (hall be fit togoverne himfelfe aright before men, if hee doe not ufuaily acquaint hitnfelfe with, and feme hirafelfc v tfter that Chriftian tour (e, firft be-I fore

■ <W

^■■P•

unto a g§Mj Lift.

I x 3*

|Forc Gcd. Yet no man rouft reft in Iprivare txerciks of Religion without a wcl-ordered life before men. Every part of our calling mnft be (6 carryedj as wee may have peace thereby; if a man be fallen,hee muft not lie ftill, Itr .8. 6. but re-tume unro God, though with difficulty, Exod. 33, 8. the breach muft be made up in our confeien-ces; which if wee doe, God is not farreoff, iSam.y.y. 10.12.22.

If wee rejoyce oaely in prosperity, it is x ligne that Gods benefits, not his favour, makes U8 merry. It is a good thing to repyce in the Sabbaths, and in the communion of Saints; yet wee may not reft therr, but in this, thstGodisour portion alwaies, Ffalm. no c 57. 2 Or. 5. 16*

In crofles wee muft ufc great (6-briety, other wife wee fhall be wife t. Jed by them : to this end wee muft prep ate and looke for trouble before it come, and ink we muft meditate of the beft privilege that

G 2 God

Briefe DireUiom

God hath given unto us, 1 Sam. 30. 6. yfal.77.

Wee ftldom* keepe unlawfull commoditics,or rt Joyce too much inlawfull,butthe Lord dothcroflfe us in them. The moft vexations in oar life become annoyances unto us through our owoe default; in that, wee either prevent them not when wee may, or beare them not as we ought, or make not ufe of them as wee might doe. Whea matters of more importancee than our Salvation ia come in place, let us be occupied in them with, more fervency than in that: but not before. Thepra&iceofgodli-nefic is a rich and gainfull trade, Prcv.$. 14, but if it be not well followed, it will bring no great profit. To haue a willing tuindc to be well occupied, and matter, a. bout which wee may, and time to bertow therdn, andfre^deme from lets therefrom, is ao eflate m* f ch to be made of. gud yet for the raoft part, c riey v. hkh havcal-

moft

■^v

nnto a g*ty Life.

I" rnort all outward incourapcments, cannot tell what to do with them.

Whatfoever meafiire of graces wee have gotten, yet ic is cenaine, that God hach much more (or us than we can thinke of> if thofe be the matters which wee have in greateft price; but being fee light by, and the raeanes neglected which prefcrve them, ttay die. That is a good eftate, when wee have not o/,ely ) ;y in heavenly thirgs at the tirft hearing of them, butincreafnginjoyjasour knowledge and experience increa-fe h; *nd when wee are not oncly delighted in thefe prefan duties of Godsfervice, but alfo as joy full to thinke of them which are to come, accounting that the more they be, the better ihty are, Tfr more lure the u art of God his favour by far.b, the more humble thou art alfo, Mdttb. 15.27.

They aic worthy of great pu-nifoment who fee light by thr plenty of that grace, the crummee

G 3 where-1

141

>

142

Rriifi VireQions

•^•^

.

i

whereof Gods hungry fcrvants do ftf great ftore by. When wee are rffl fted, and the wicked (pared, our eftate fcemeth to them mod vile; when we are both in profpe-rity, they feeme more happy; when they and wee bebothaffli-£hd, then they account our eftate happier than their owne, bate fpe-dally when they areaffi&cd, and ' we (pared, Evod* 1425.

Wee may not affigne the Lord, in what place, (late* condition,or in what company wee would live, but as Grangers wtit on him, even as the hand-maid on her Miftrefle, for whatfoever hee will allow us: wee arc ready moft commonly to be called away by death, before we befit, or have learned how to lire, Looke what care^onfeience, leak, lore, and reverence, eftima-tion of good thing?, thouhaddeft when firft thou embraced'il the Gofpell- the fame at leaft retaine, and be fare thou keepeft ftill after-wards. The more knowledge that

thou

unto a godly Lift.

thou ha ft, take heed chou beeft roc more fecure; for thas ic it with many at this day, who therefore doe fmart for ic.

Wee (hall not er py the grace which wee had ac the firftj except wee bz carefu<l now tokeepcic, as wee were then to com: by ir.

Keep downe carnall liberty ,and the fpiriruall liberty fhall be great, and reft oa God, and ic (hall make thee overcome the hardeft ching3.

Wee rauft remember to ferve and walke with God by daies, not by weekes and moneths onely, Pfal. 92. 12.

As Husband-men wait for their fruits, fo fhould we for that which wee pray and hope for$ andtbit woidd make us j)y full when wee obtaiaeic.

If we can rejoyce at the conversion of a finner, then arc we Chrift his friends, Lukf 15.6.

Ic b a folly, yea, a madneffe, to

be heavie to the death for any

earthly thing, when yet a mm

G 4 defireth

.

144

♦-I

Briefe ~DirtUtons

I

I defireth. nothing more than life

All our life ought to be a provi-. ding for a good end,and a keeping' away of wo which commctb by finne.

The fLfh would faine pleafeit felfe in fome unlawful! liberties, when wc have pleafed God in foroe duties; but a wile roan will keepe well when hee is well. The more grace wt perceive in a iy man, and conftancie, the more hee is like to God,tbe better we^ ought to love him, 7^.13.23. JP/i/. 15- 4»

Where there is wilfulrufle in finning, there is great difficulty in relenting, and alio no power nor boldnefll in believing. Many beginning well in godlinefle have fainted and quailed, or beene juft, Iy reproached before their end^ that others may the more fcare their owne weaknefle: where new knowledge isnotfbnghr, there is the lefls favour in the ufe of the old- and when men make not good uft of the old, the fee-king

king of the new is but noveltie. Men having experience of Sa-

I" cans malice and conciniull dogging of them to doe evilly it fliauld teach them to truft better in their armour, and Uffk to therafelves.

Where we fufpe& thac corruptions grow, if wee goe net about to pull chem out, arid plucke them up, they will be too deeply faftned in a fhort time.

Though man pray and meditate, and keepe a better courfein his life than fbme do?, yet if hce doe it bucfl.ighcly, that the flefh prevailech iruch in hindering the well-performing of ic, all will fuone come to nought - it may be perceived in che fway it bearenh in other parts of che life, and then let it be fpeedily amended.

Ic is good (b to cafte our fclves with duties, one or ocher,at 11 times, and in all places., chat Co doing, wee may cut off occafions of rouchiinoe.

Let no fione be flnghcly pafled

146 I

Briefe D'tnUims

^ **■

1 r*

; 'i

I

I over or omicced, for when it com-racthto remembrance in trouble., it will fee an heavie burden r and pinch us to the heart.

THc third' private fielpe is the armour of a Chriftian: concerning which foure points are fit tobeknowne.

1 £irft,wbat it is, and which be t he cbiefc pa rts of it,

Icbthat fpirituall furdrureof the gifts and graces of the holy Gboft, by which God doth deli* ver his from all adver&ry power 5 and bringjhem to the obedience of his will^2 Cor. 10.4* the parts are fee downe, Ef>bef>6. 14.

r WhcrcofJiefirttisfinceJty, which is the general! grace^where-by a Chriftian is made Ample, and without fraud, or hypocrifie bearing (way in him, both towards God and hia neighbour, P/i/.ja 2.

2 The f cond is righreoufiufff; which is that gift of the Spirit,

where-

?

MXtoagtdfyLife.

f 47

whereby our hearts are bent to all manner of goodnefle, and righteous dealing,approving of it as raoft excellent, defiring fervently, and delighting in it, and that becaufc it is good, and d diking, and hating of all naugbciaeffe and evill, Pri. 28. i, ffkiX.j.

3 The third is the (hooes of peace, which h 5 that having received the Gofpell, and found the fweetneflk of it, wee are now thereby as cney who are ready to take a j :>urney (hod and prepared, ready to deny our felves, and to take up out croflfe and follow Chrift, through this our pilgrimage, Rpw.5.1. Lukt 21. 33. 57. Phil, 4 7. lob. 16.33.

4 The fourth is the fliicld of faith: which is to build our per-wafionon God his faubfall pro-mifes, that Chrift Iefas is ours: and thit Godhathgiven him to us, to obtaine forgivenefle of our fins, and feWation by him, yea, and til other good things alfo naeece

for

*4

8

Briefe Vire&ons

for thispretenc life, Colof. 1.33,

5 The fifth his hope, which is a joyfull bnging, and itedfaft de-firc and looking for the performing and accomplifhiog of all thofe mercies, reroporall and eter-nail, which God hach promifed, and wee by faith are afjiircd of, Lu\.2.^o.Tet. 1.13.

6 The fixth is the fword of the Spirir, which is to be well inftru-Ged in the (bund and living knowledge of the Scriptures, androdi-geft the fame, and aUb (eafon our uuderftanding withia us : in fuch wife that weemaykaowthewtli of God, and have the forae in remembrance in the things which moft concerne us,(as we can:)hit thereby wee may at ail cim*$, and in all edes, be readily led by ic, PfaL 119. 105. Where it ig ro be reniOnbred, char Hee which hath mofi knowledge, i^'hee be not guided by that he underftji,derh, hec fenowcth nothing as hce oughr, 10.3,18- Prtfv.^6* leb^^.iy.

The

*iu«Ag*lly Lift.

M<?

TKc f cond generall point is rhe r.ec^ ffi ie of this armour, viz, that wee (h :>uld cloath and furrjifhourfouk-s, with every pare ofit: wh ; ch is fo great, that the right Chriftian life cannot ftand without it: for to venture upon the manifold tribulations of this life without the {booes of preparation, is as much as to goe barefoot amo gthornes, or to ranne naked upon the pikes.

To bs deftitute of this fliield of faith, is the undoubted way cither to defpaire utterly, or clfe in deadly presumption axlfecuri-ty, to drowne our felvea in perdition.

To leave off the breft-plate of righteoufneflc, is to expofe him-(elfc into the danger of every temptation - for hee that doth noi from time to time afrefh indent with his heart againft ail unrighte-ou(oeflc,he may Luk to be carried iaco thofe unlaw Full a&ions which

(hall

*>•-.

Briefe DireUicns

(hall bring difgace to hirafelfe, and his holy profeffion a Wo, i Cot % 6. 4. 5.

Hee chat hath notthefwordof Gods Spirit, fo that hee be able to lay in temptations, it is written to the contrary, (hall never be able to cut in (under thofe bonds of finne, wherewith hee fliall be conipafled.

He that hath not all thefe girded to him, whh finccrity and truth, (hall bnt deceive himfclfe and others alfo.

Hee that hath not true hope of (alvation>to keepclife in bis foule, how can hee be void of fainting, irkefomnefle,heavincfle,diftrafti-on^dumpUhncile, andfundryfoch difcouragements? Or how can he have any cheerefulcefleinhislife, or contcntedncfle,, that hath not this hope of pafiing his afflifting daks, under the wings of God his protc&ion?

So that wee may well affirme, without this compleatc armour of s God

unU *godlj Lift

iud,<hat the Gbriftian life cannot continued.

THc third point is, how this Armour fhould be put on. For e anflver whereof wee are to ow, that it is not wholly waning in any rrue Chriftian: for every true believer at his firft conver-fion, is made partaker (chough in weake rreafurc) of all things appertaining to life and godlteeflfe, iPet. 1,4.

What then raeanech the Apoftle when he b'ddeth us put on this armour? His meaning is* char wee fhould not have it u mea in the time of peace have their bodily armour hanging by them, unfit f r ufe; but as fouldiers have theirs in battel!, wemnft be fare, that in all pUceSjand upon all occasions, we have it with us fo fane as wee are able, werauft licdowne, and rife up with k; becaufe our battell lafteth ail our life long, and our /enemies be deadly, and all our

ftreogth

I5i

•*rv*

Vp.

Britfe Virettions

—

ftrcngth is by our armour.

N>w to put on, and alfo to keepe on, and to have the feeling of every part of this armour, (faith againft diftruft, hope againft fainting, uprightnefle againft hypo-crific; knowledge againft thed?-ceitfulnefle of fm; rigfreoufnefle, againft all kindeof iniquity, and the preparation of the Gofpell of peace, againft'crofl&s) to have, I (ay, this armour in areadineflV,we muft ufe continual] watching, hearty prayer, ana frequent meditation about them, Matth^b*^

Here is to be obferved, tha? the fwordofthe Spirit hath two branches, viz* that knowledge which wee get out of the leerer of the Scrip* urc onely, and lb have it but by rule: and tht knowledge which wee Iearneby proofe and triall for the bettering of us : for a* in all trades and fciences there is great difference bet wixc the experimen-tall knowledge of them, and bare or naked skill of them; fo is

there

unt§ a godly Life.

there great diftance betwixt one that bach onely attained fo much knowledge as will enable him to girc account of his faith, and him who hath had the proofeof this knowledge, how it hathbeene ef-fe&aall in him. Hee confidereth, obferveth, and applieth the things which heheareth, fecth,and doth, to his owne ufe : and by things pafttfaus duly regarded, heelear-neth and getteth widiome to ad-vift and guide him for the pretend and for the time to come*

This is experience, which ma-kethuswifein all things that arc profitable to godlineflc and eternal! life.

The observation of the reward of evill will make us avoyd it; and experience of the fruit of a godly life, is the belt meane to continue it: our owne friall how sffl ftions may be of.lieft borne, and come tobdtend, is our bfft rule forever afcer. Thr. example w*c have in T>Avid, Tftlm. 120, i. I Sjm.\j*

34-

»53

-

Ohjcfr

Briefe VtreOknr

34. VfMm.jj. io. Tfalm.y?. 37. Li furoroe, as in all Trades the beginning is hardeft, and experience bringetb facility; fo it is in the pra&ice of Chriftianky.Woe-full therefore it is, that in this, of all other,, men will not labour for experience. I

4. The fourth generall fruit is, the benefit of this armour, which is not fmall, for hee that putteth it en, and goetb cloathed with id thorow the day, though the Di-vell, and his inftrumentg, doe a£ fault by craft and deceit, or by force and might, hee (ball mighti- j ly prevaile againft th m, and pre-fcrve himfelfe; he {hill be able to live with comfort in all eftatesthat God (hall fet him in, and in all places which hee (hall bring him to • and change by no occafions 3 but hold out until! an end be made of all difficulties and uncertainties.

We may (erve God well enough without putting on this armour after foftrid a manner.

n

unto a godlyLife.

155

It is true indeed.,thata Chriftian | Anfr*. trrving God may be ignorant of ihis armour; but hte cannot then ay, bt fcrveth God wellenougft ;

csufcthatkindoflifemuft needs,

wandriog, unfettled, and not to ibe refted in.

' Ac icaft it is not expedient to Obittt. impofe (b heavie a burchen upon weakeChriftians.

The childe of Godisnofboner Afljy*. borne, bot he defireth to continue , in tbat eftate of life and falvation, to p'eafc God in all things^ and to roaincaine peace and joy within himfclfc; all which iJcffc&cd by the ufe of this armour.

NOw to come to thofe helpes, cither by our fdves alone, or others alfo (for the other kinde \ (hall have another place) thef: are prayer and reading.Firii of Praier. Prayer is a caling upon God accordlingto his will; it hath two 'parts, Thankefgiving and Rcqueft, k whereunto isadded the Confcllion

Bricfe VireUions

of iinnes. Thankefgiving is t part of Prayer, in which we bci comforted by fame benefit, whicfc in favour God beftowethupon us, are drawne to love and pra fe him, and fhew forth the fruits thereof. In thisdire&ica,there are to be; obferved three things and three! motives unco them.

" i. The firft motive is kncwl ledge and doe cenfiteraion of feme particular benefit received or promifed us, i Sam. 25. 32J Gen. 24.27. Lnkc 17.15. Without thefe three can be no true *nd heartie thankefgiving, howfbever in words there be a protection forfafhionfake.

2. The (econdis j ^y and glad-nefTe of hearf,for the benefit which wee thinke of, or calltorninde, Pfalrn. 116.1.2. Except wee finde this fweetnefie in the mercic?, no dutyofthankescm in good fort be performed by them.

3, The third, is a perf^afionj that the benefit for which we givq

thankesj

UKtoagtdfy Life.

*57

nkes, comracch to us from God

fatherly lore.

This is a farre greater caufe of adneffe than the benefit it felfe, al. 116. J.

1. Ilr tirft dt'fy is a continu-ceofourlovetoGod, P/.12&1.

2. The (econd i$ a defir-- to fee rthhis g'ory, anJ in w;rdsto of (Te and confefle his good-

; forif\veelovedv:Lord,wc nnot but be carried with this rventdchrejtoadvsr.es an J ringed hioi, PfaL 116. 12 and 1 11.

3. The third is a further prc-:eding in obedience and walking rorrhy his kindntfle : this one if be wanri^gfroro the reft, maketh

lem all lame., and maimed, and as dious to God as the mortlings fhrch were offered to him in fi-rifices,D/«/.6.i 0.11. P/j/. 5 o. 16. If in this manner wee (hould rame our (clyes to thankefjlnsffe, rmuftneedes be a mighty and for-ible meanes to mollifie the hard

ii

tfart 3 and to hold under the ftrudy * corrup-

corruptions of it, fo that they may be ful j tSt to God; yea,even when ftrong provocations doc draw co thecoDtrary.

Thus much of Thankefgiving: Now for Confefliot?. Conftffion is an acknowledgement of our felves f o be guilty, and worthily to hare deterved Gods v. rath for our grie* voos offences; together with a free and humble bewailing of them be-I fore the Lord : fuch as are un-kno wne to us in a gcnerall manner, but thofe which we do know (according to the nature of them)par-ticularly.

To the right practice of this, there arc fourc things reqaired.

i The firft, that wee feele our fr.nes odious and burthenfome tou?.

2 Secondly, that we accufe our iclv ;S of them to @od#

3 Thirdly, that we ftand at his mercy, having dcfeived condemnation.

4 Fourthly, that wee abaft our

felve^'I

***!

unt§ a godly Lift.

'59

(elves thereby, and fo are weak-ned, and our pride abated.

All chefc are in the confeifion of David. c Pfal.')i.oiDamil 9. of the Prodigall foa, Lmk,. 15 17.

Now this Gonfcllion being from time to time often made unto God, wiilnotfufferustogoe farre, and lie long in any finne, but hunt if oat before it be warme and neftled in us; and therefore it rauftnecdes be of great force to ftrengthen us in a godly life.

The hit part of Prayer, is Re-queft; it is that part of Prayer, wherein wee carnsftly poare out our futes unto God, in contrition of hearr, according to his will, with comfortable hope, that through Chi ift we fhall be heard, and therefore forfakiog the finne which might hinder our futf.

In this du*y alfo there arc fours I things to be oblervcd.

1 Firft, that wee fhe w this contrition of heart, by being preflcd with feeling our want*; unwor-

thincfle, I

Brhfe ViTcUums

cbintffc, zniferable eftate, and manifold miferies, earneftly cfcfiring co be pardoned ar deafed, i Sam. i.

I* this be (o (as will (bone follow,upon right confdlion) wee (hall neither pray in l.p-laboiir,

bichGodabhormh* northinkr o;:r felves too good to wait Gods leifurtj if ar firft hee grant not our requefty, but continue them as he

11 T»andech #

2 That wee asfce onely thofe things aswsthave a word for^and in fuch fort a? hee nathprumifed them, 1 fob. 5.14.

3 That wee qui' keo our felyes to come in faich and confidence, and eft.times to come chearefully co this duty, Jam.6. i. fob. 16.24..

Now to the end we may come with chearefull delight unto this duty, let us confider thelites, which are cfpecially three,

1 Firft, that by prayer wee are made in a fort acquainted^ and fa- j miliar with God, and know his

roiody

unto a g*&ly Ltfe.

161

m:r,d and will, and hew he is afford to us, being admicce:* ro fpeak unto h'lm^lMm.^Z.Ioh. 16.26. Rev* 3 10.

2 Secondly, that it giverh life to God his graces in us, which before lay halfe dead; as weemay fte in the example of Sficr.

3 Thirdly, : treachcihonttous in our greateft neede, the good things and ^ifes of God which our fdvesdefire, Mtttb. j.j.

4 The fourth and laii property of prayer, is y thit wee bring not with us the tins which will curne tway the eares of God from hea-ung us; (uch are any fanes not repented ofj butlycoin, fecretlyat the leaft,and not rcaouaccd, frov. 28.19. PfaL 7.4.

Thcfe are che puts of prayer, which if they be reverently and humbly adjoined together (as they ought) accompanied wkh the tore-mentioned properties j if we be falko, they will raife us up; if

: be heavie, they will comfort

H usi

I ■!■-■!. ■ ■ ■ I I II . 1 —»——^——^—

\6^

BritfcVireUhns

us; ifwebedull,they will quicken us; they are a prefent remedy to the oppreflfed heart, apreferverof the godly life, a giver of flrength to tneweake, an efpeciall meanes to make a man live in every eftare wherein God hath fee him : therefore prayer muft needs be a ftrong and mighcy help-to the godly life ; for if we pray well, and keeps our felves in caie fit to perforce this duty, we (hall not need to feare in our life any great annoyance.

THe next helpe is reading; the general! rules for if^are thefe: i FirP^^atthebcokesotGod be roc laid aficte and nrglcftec^ butreidon as oft of every one t% may b?: otherwife much unfivo-linelTe, unqiiictmfle» anfruitful-ntfft, and uncheerefuineffei will follow even In the be(h

2 That all fikhyjkwd^and wanton bookes, yea,needlcfleand tin-prc/kib!e be avoided. ( j

I 3 That in che Scriptures there!

unto a g*d!j Life. j

be a conftanc going on in order, an d not here and there a Chapter: and of otherAut hours, rather lee one or two be read 'Well and of-ten^ than many fleighcly.

Now as concerning the manner of reading,

i It muft be with hearty good will to learne and profit by ir, de-firing God to prepare us with reverence, &c.

2 We muft fettle our (elves for the time to be attentive, and (o to abandon the wandring of the heart as much as may be.

3 Wee rauft be carefull to apply that which wee reade wifely to our fclvcs; as perfwading our fclvesthat all duties arc commanded us 3 all fins foibidden us 3 and all promifes to be .believed of us: likewifc wee rauft lookc that all exhortations, and admonitions quicken i*;tll reprchenfions check us; and all threats caufc us to feare. If reading be thus ufed, it will many waies appcafc the confeience;

H i in-

i<53

■■ ^^ ■ ^ ■

w~

BriefeViretttoPts

inlightcn the judgement, inlarge . the heart, relieve the memory, move the afft&ions^and in a word, draw the whole man unto God j and therefore muft needs with the reft be a Angular hdpe and furthc-rancc^o a godly and Chriftian life*

Hitherto of ordinary helpes, extraordinary are efpecally two.

1 Firft^Solemnethanlcfgiving,

2 Aid fccondly, fading with prayer more than ufuall adjoyned.

Thcfirfti*, when infomerare and unlooked for deliverance out of defperate danger, we doe in mofl fervent manner y^cld praife tr/God for the fame, and re Joyce heartily in the remembrance and confideration of if, tying our klves in a renewing of ourhcly covenant more firm ly to the Lord: «ndreftifyingbochfhrfcby fignes and Qnfaincd go»>d will ro oar brethren. AH which are to be kj fe^Dt meft dkardy and lively in P

±*%

unt$agodljL'tfe.

i*5

|

that moft famous example of £y?*r and M^rdccay^ Efter. 9. Ic is to be uCcd acco; ding co the occafion: fvheo the occafion of ic belongs to a whole Churchy and ispublikeiy performed: ic ought to be accompanied with the preaching of the Wotd 9 for the qutekenhg of the aflembly. If the occafion be private, it is to be ofed privatdy,with P/almf s praifing of his Name, and fpeaking of his vvorkes, and reading Scriptures tending to that end.

The fecond extraordinary help is fading: and this is a mqQ earneft profc(fiun of deepe humiliation in ibfiinencc, with confelfion of fins and fitppl cations (tor thegreatcft pm of the Jay at the Jeift)'oGod, 'o rurnc av7ay fome fore calamity from is, or for the obtaining of (bmeipcchll blclfiug.

!r mi it b 'Lk I arcordingtooc-cafio; s, asc'ieo.her; but neither muft b: taken in hand, without truerepenrance.

___ H 3 Now

—. f "

H»*tMMM»«M>

1 66

I

Briefe Vin&ions

\

Nowifwc weigh the force and ufe of theft exerciieSjhowrihe one raifeth up a pyfull recordirg of Godhiswonderfullkindr.cffejche other bringeth us low tor our cwne viIencfle 9 morccfpecially rc-membred. Both of them doe exceedingly draw our hearts to more lovesndobedience to God; wee muft needs cocfefle them to bs cf-fe&aall mcanes for thefcttirgus forward in a godly life.

NO w that a believer is defined, the godly life described, 2nd the helpes thereunto ad j >yned t lc rcmaineth in the next place, to di-refirthe weake Chriftian in the right ufe and applying of the raeaaes* For thofe dudes of godli-ncSs are not left to mca (bmetimes to bepra&ifed, and at other times to be negle&^dj nor generally only, but particularly in all their a&ion*; and every day, and tho-rowouc the day, to be looked un. to and regarded. The meaning is [

nor. (^

unto a godly Life.

\6j

7

nor, that the felfe-fame particular aftions and duties fhould be every day, butyetthatallevillbeavoy-ded every day,apd fiich good done, as in onr calling and life (hall be occasioned.

i Firft therefore to declare thar the believer muft have direftion for his life every day out of Gods Word; it is manifcftly proved our of chefe places of Scriptare, i Pet. 1,17. 4.2. Heh*3. 14. £04.1.75.

2 Tbc Scripture doth commend unto us a certaine courfe to walke in with God, and a particular direction of our !i ves ss may be £en, T/i. ; . r 1 p. p. Prt*io.9.CjdI. 6a6.

And 60c further require the fame to be daily kept and followed of us, Pnv. 21.14. 1 tim\ 5.10. Pfil. 119.97. P/J/.7 1.15. ^£2.2 4. 16.&c. 24. 7. P/*/. 145. 2. Therefore Chriftian j murt be guided by fomc daily direftions in the lea-dingofcheir lives.

3 Furthermore^ fo many parts of a daily dire&ionaswilliuffici-

168

ftritfe VireQ ois

I I

ently dircft a man 3 be enjoyned in the Word oi God co be daily ufed, as in the parts of ic 5 and thchelpes unco ir. In prolperity, Iam.%. 13. I Tbef.^i^.Iam. 2.23. In afflictions, lam. 1.5.2 Chr. 2 0.34. Lam., 3. 2j.Pfal $2.6.2 Sam. 15. 26.Luki \ 9. 23.Ptttf.3312. Mmh.26.^\. Among the helpes for Prayer^ Pfal.tf.16. & X 19.164* ?r*.6,22. For watchfulnefle, Pfil. 1 19. 97. For reading, lofh. 1. 8. and as for J publike hearing^ Prcv.2. 33. ^7j

I 4 B:fidcs, if wee confider the danger that fo! ! oweth the neglett-ingof thisdirtftion f by taking un* lawfulJ liberty, that will be a rca-ion to (tirre us up unco the imbra-cingohhis cruhj for,firftweare caught prefewly with the deceir. fulnefleof lilt fome Way or other, Mat. 2641. Htb.$* 13*2 Tim. 4.5 Prov. 28. 13,

2 Secondly, GOD WmfdCe, »h M}g\ he kcepe his children from I many eyills while they defire it J

, 7£fl\

unto & godly Lift.

169

tm

yet if they be fecure, hce leaveth them to themlclves, aad docb pc-ni(h their finnc as hee doth other mens, 2 S*m. 7.14. 2 Chro. 1 6. 9. prw. 10 9 *P/i/, Sp j, and we all know that Satan wacchech all opportunities to hurt us, Mattb. 13.

Tatbtfcteafons may be add'd,

5 That this daily dire&ion is the beft meanes co keepe us well, while wee be well, and to rail's us up being fallen.

6 That the very tenComman-dcmcn r s/nj lyningdutLs towards hi nfelfc generally on fixe daies in three commandments, and efpe-cially on the fevench in the fourth, but towards men on alidads, doe lead us to this daily dire&ion.

7 That Gad hath forbidden fuch differences co be mad^ of daies, as that in one wee fhould be carefull, in others caicklie, </<*/.4 10. CJ.2.16.

H % 8 And

BrUJe Virtilitns

8 And laftly, thac our whole and daily converfafbn rnuft be in

Therefore as a man thac haih 2 long journey to travel^ wiHnot count this fofficsnt direftion to goeonEfttararJj or Weft w a;d, or fuch gcnerall rules^ but will take a particular note of Toymes and paifages : Co ought wee to learne wifdome^ that, having a great pilgrimage topafle, wee content not, ourfelves with gcneralls a but follow thofe certaine particulars^ which may helpe us for warcUnAhe kingdorae of heaven, .

Ow it folio wes tofhew what this daily direction is. It is a gathering together of certaine roles cut of Gods Word,by which we may be ioafc>!ed every day to live according to the Will of God wish found pe^ce.

And therefore the foilowingof fuch direction, is a fuithfull and so&fi$nt enckvaar to pIeafcGod<r

umoAgidtyLift*

171

in al! things every day as long as wee live here, co the peace of oiir o wne conference, and co the glorifying of God. In the description is co bt obferved:

1. Thatic is called an endevour only, becaufe perfection is neither required of God^ nor co be looked for of the b:ft Ghriftians. Thus ftchplaces.as Pfa/.\i9>i.Lul{.it. 28. which feeme co require perfection, are co be expounded by I chofe that fpeaIce of endevour, as,' Chro.2$.j 9 Hof.6.3. A&n^lb But this endevour b 3n infeparable fruit ofthefeare of God, andmuft be in our hearts continually.

2. That this endevour muft be hearty,not coaftrained, or hollow, but conftant, that we faint noc^ but hold out therein.

3. Wheretoictendeth^/^. co pleafc God in all things, Lnb^i 6. 13. CV/.I.IO./W.13 18.

4. Laftly, hacthismuft be daily, and continue to the end,/^7.2 4.16. 7^,4.26. Aft.iCj, 2 Cor. t.l J,

*****

Briefe Utrctbms

Tbevccejjarjf psrU oftbedrilj di~* reUion atctbejt eight,

FIrft, every day wee flioulJ be humbled f r our (Line?, as through due cx^mi arion of our IvesbythcLaw otGod wee (hall fee them, Pf*lm»$. j. Epbef.q 16. lob U 5.

2 Every day wee ought to be railed up in allured hope of f jr-givemff ofihtm by the promifes ot God in CbrW; this is n Vir fr~ para cd fir m the foTmtr,A&. 2.38. Hof 14.2.3. that word in the petition this day doth teach us io much*

3. Every day we oug^t to prepare our hean s to ft eke the Lord ftill; and kecpe them fie and willing thereto, Hcb.$. 12. De**, 5, a9. Mat 12. 37 Pro 4.18.

4 Evei yday wre mult itrongly and relblu tly arme our fe vesa* gajuift ah evill andfinne., fearing maftaf allto ogend Gad. 1

K Ever 5 \

*****

■ ■ ■ ■ »■ I l b 1-1 M U »■ n . .

I

5 Every day wee muft nounfh our feare and love of God, and joy to him more than in a vf thing, and, erdcvonr to pleafe him io all duties as occifua (hall be offered,

6 Every day our thankes bee contit u^d for benefits received., a.«d (till ccrraioly hoped tor, Lam. 3.23. Pfa/m. 318.7, aadic33 1 77*/ 5, 18.

7 Eevcry day wee ought to wa f ch and pray for fteadfatln^fle, andconftancy in ail thcfe,£/?^/r. 5.17.

8 Every day hold and keepe our peace with God, and fo lie downe with ic, a CW. 1. n.fbil^ 4. \Tkef.<).i6.

Thefearc all neceffiry, as with-out which we can never be fafe, we can never taftc of true joy. But here two extremities are to bea-voidedia conceiving of thcrrn.One, that wee chinkc it not fafficicnt to regard rhffe duties, tome one time in the day; for wee rauft have this

pre-

*73

—

*74

Briefe DireUims

prcfcnc with us, and our hearts fca-foned with them thorowouc the day. The other is, that wee doe not take occafion from hence to (hakeoff our callings, or neg!e& any pare of them; for in our ordinary and meaneft workes, we may aad muIWerve Godjby^doing them in takb,not for carnall refpe&s only : and avoiding the common fins chic prophane ones joync with them.

Concerning outward a&rons, co certainc rules can be given in particular, becaufe they arc variable and infinite; yet fome outward duties there arc 3 although notneceffary to be done daily, yet commonly to be obferved, \ery profitable and hclpfull to live well« aad happily^ by fettling us in the 1 pra&ice cf a daily direction • fechf are thefe that follow.

i That wee walkc with God, that is, that as fooneas wee have-broken off our fkepe, wee let God before our eyes*and our hearts uj-

nntotgodlj Life.

••—•

'75

w

on him, rcfolving Co walke with him that d$y,Prcv.6 22*

This accuftoraing our fclves to good thoughts, at our firft awaking, by fee ting our hearts upoi fomeholy and heavenly things, would te a good entrance to the well fpeading of the day, and a preventing of ftndryevills.

2 That infolemne manner (if it may be) before wee enter upon other affaires, wee ofRr up our morning prayer to God, confefc fing our cfpeciall fr ties, remem-bring his particular favours; requeuing both pardon for things paffed,and affirtingHS with bUfc fings for time to come, efpecially forihatday, Van. 6. io. For the helpingforwardof this duty, it is fit chat fbme holy meditation be jjyncdwiihic: thisbeiogjoyncd with a hearty renew* ng of our covenant wil fo leafon us in the morning, chat wee (hall rcraine the fa-Vor,and hold the ftrengch of facha graci; us beginning, all the day af-cer.

That

(

m ■

I7<$

1 ^^»—™ - ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■■

Brsefe DiteUlom

3 That then (if itftiallbcmoft expedient) we with our mindsftill kept well ordered, betake our kfvesto our calling and vocation j wherein wee muft not Co much minde our profir, that wee coolc any grace thereby, or quench holy afll&lons in us, Thac wee muit h^ve acallirg^e Cjen.^ig.fyk 4.' 13. 2 T^f/3. 6. That wee muft labour diligently therein, fee 1 Or 7 20. 1 Thrf$ &. io* Pro. j 3« 411. & lS.p. &24.30.

But r hat the walking in our calling diligently may pleaf; God,we nmft fo ufe earthly dealings, that wcenegkftnot fpirituall duties; wee muft avoid worldly minded-1 eflcoo the one part,as idlenes on the other: both of which we fhall be encouraged unto, if wee con-fidenhac it is the Lord who fttcerfc 11s in our callings, and hath promised to be with us,and to give us ^oodfucccflein them, and to help us to beareall tedioufoeffe therein,, and further, that hee willech us to

doe

K

wnt$ agodly Life.

doe all fuch duties for his fake, in fjch manner, as if wee did them to him- and from him to looke for a reward,/*/&. 1.8.

4 That io all companies we behave our (elves as wee are taught of God, and as it beconmeth us, efpecially Co as wee leave no ill favour behinde us. Wee muft not therefore rufh unad vifecily into it, j as moft men do, but determine before to doe good unto others, as we be able, or to take good oj others as nccaiio i is off red, C0/.4. 6. Iofk.iS i r im.^ i*. we muft take heed of dirges to come by tacmilticfc and b)r/fcStalking apd behaviour, which in moft companies wee lhall raecte with-all.

Occafioos of good fpeeche* muft net only be rake nfn it fought andwaitedf r, sift.26 28

If the company be G ciefperate, that the»*e is no place for God, yet *wee muft keepe our fclvts from liihrir unfruitful! workes of darkc-

l 77

\j

nefl\

Briefe VireUians

riefle 3 by giving of apparent tokens of our diflike, leaving them al(b as (bone as wee can, and (hunning them afterwards as much as wee may conveniently.

Amongft others* wee mnft be ready feafonably to give, or Chri-ftianly to receive reproofeycxhor-tation^comfor^&c

1 In particular for our recreations, wee mull firft looketo the time, when it is ncedfulL

2 The kinde, that it be honeft, and of good report.

3 That wee forget not God* in the ufe thereof.

4 Ti?c RSSSt*, tnat it be With moderation of affe&ion every way

5 Our affociares, that they be fuch as wee may have cemfort of,

6 Our end, that wee may be fitter to the duties of our calling.

la bargaining and o*her covenants, they ought to be without hollo wneflc, deceit, undermining, and fuch other uncontcionable dea Hog; that fo wee may be fimpR

a

nmoagtidljLife.

and our meaning good, our words pliine,our agreements rcafonable, our promifes kept, our covenants performed^ advantages not rigo-roi-fl* r taken, &c.

Finally ,wc rauftobfcrve and reverence the graces of God in c-thsrs where wee lee them, and by that meanes labour to chafe away from us frivolous and hurtfull fantasies, faiotneflf, difcouragements, and wsarincfie of well-doing: That we may hold the profeihon of our faith with joy unto the end.

That when wee be alone, wee have the like care of our felves, that our behaviour be unblame-able, and that our thoughts be either about things jawfull with moderation to drfpofethem, orfpiri-tuall with delight to enjoy thcra,or elfeevill, with hatred and detefta-tion to overcome thm;

i A* firft in things indifferent, we muft take heed that we doe not fcufic oar felves in other mens matters needkfly, 1 Tim. 3. 15. 1 Cor. ^0.24. 2 Second-

er

2 Secondly, that in our ownc we be not drowned* that our love and delight be drawnfcaway from better things 1 7 1*1,6.9.

1 In things holy, wee muft beware, firft, left by the common ufing of good duties, wee come to have tbem in lefife reverence^ M4ttb.6.6.U 15.8- Maith.2^ 12.

1 S:condly,tbatwethinkcnot over well of our fdves,for that we doe fomew hat more in the fcrvice of God thanothers, Pbil.$. 14.

3 In things unlawful!, *ve mu^ creful'y beware, that while wee thitikei four Sanes^or other mens, with indent to grow in ba red of them,vsf be not even by thac occa-fion tickled wirh fbme define, or drawne into force fxrec liking of them, is many are.

4 WerruO never in (olitariuefle bz unoccupied, becaufe of thac danger whichen(uetb,asexamples doe teach a 2 Sam, 11. 2. Gen. 3. Matth. 4. and our owne experience confirmetbjwho are no foonq

Moi\V

unto a godly Life.

I l8l

-%.

alone and idle, but fwarmes of yaine, foolifli., noyforoc and perilous thoughts and defires are fbli-citing and offering themfelves unto us.

5 That we u(e our profperity, and all che liberties which are la w-full, of this life, foberly,and fo as wee labour to be better by them. How hard this is, itappearethby experience, wherein it is Co found, thasthe more a manhathofthefe earchly commodities,the Iefle he is ioriched with fpiriruall graces; and as they are focreafed and mul* tiplyed, fo this decayeth and is df-miniftied. Few by earthly things are drawnc on and encouraged to the love of the heavenly; which yet is the end that the Lord hath in giving them; few doe as they did, which are mentioned., Ati.y. 3 f. Moft make riches thtir ftro. g towers,? r<7.i8,n. whtrebychey are imbold ncri to do many things wilfully, which otherwifc they

cur ft not.

y

Now

Briefe Uireftfns

Now that * wee may cfE ftthi^ not withftandingall diffi :Qlcies,wc jnuftccnfidcr that inordinate love which is in ns 5 to the liberties and bladings of this life- and this wee rruft by all meaoes pofliblc wea-kt n and abate; to which end, Firrt we muft often and earoeft'Iy weigh howmementraty and flectirg all things under the Sunnc arc, and how uncertainc hold wee have of theii^ Ecclef. i. 2. 1 £V. 7« *9> Luke \2.l$. c Prov 23. 4.

2 Secondly, wee mutt confider faioufly of the danger that corn-met h to us by them : in which regard they are termed in Scripture fnares, thornes, choakes, becaufc ihey inrangle us, pricke, holding and (mothering the raaine graces of God in us, that they bud not out and fruSifie, Maitb. 13.21. 1 Tim. 6. io»

3 Wee muft often record, that thefe earthly thirgs arc not our owne, bnt borrowed, and Co as they may every day be required

- ■ ■ '

unto a gedljrLtfe.

-**•

i8 3

red againe of us, L*kei6* 12.

4 Wee muft remember what hurt they have done, as by caufing diftrafticns,un(ettling$ : &c.

5 We muft often meditate upon examples of fcch as have en-j jyed che like, or greater commodities, and what have becne their end.

6. It will be good tovifiteas others/othofc alio io their ficke-nefle, which have had thefe out. ward things, that fo we may both fee bow little they can helpe at fuch times, and alfo be put in mind of cur latter ends, which cannot but fomething weane us from this world.

7 That we be ready to receive our afflictions meekdy and patiently, Lam. 3. 33. 1 Cor. 11.31. Jam.x.2. \Pct.i.6.R*m.5.<y. Af-niftions we muft expert, 1 Pet. 4. 12. Rsrn.S.iy. 2Tiin.$.i2, > Howfocver therefore wee be of ourfelves ready to fhiinkebacke it the hearing of them, loh.\ 1.8. * Htb. 1

U' •

Brief? DiTt&i*n$

Heb. 12. 11. )ccucemaft prepare our (elves cobeare them meekely, and chcereFully, and that in our youth, Lam. 2.27. knowing that Satan will be ready to fccke our mifchicfeeyenbycrofTes, Ub\ % 6. For preventing whereof, wee muft every day armeour fdvesa-gainft the feare of fuch troubles at may come, and againftimpauer.cy, by fuch as already are come upon us, Luke 9. 23. Jam* 5.10. 1i« and that not enly in great troubles, but even in thofe which are cooi-non.

This, if wee doe with obferva-tion, wee (hall get e*perience,and by experience hope, that will not caufe(hame 3 &?»i>5. $• ffil* 102. 1. Otherwi(e,ifweenegle&thiSj every rffliftion will unfettle and bring us out of frame, in which eftate vvc (hall be both utterly uq. fit for any fervicc of God, and al-fo unmeet for any Chriftian foci-cty with men - and (b both adde new troubles unto the former,

and

Hnto a g9&lj Lift.

and make them which God fendcth upon us farre more grievousthan other wife they fhould have beene.

8 Thatweconftantlykecpethe exercife of prayer & thanksgiving in our families, and ftch other helprs (as Readings Catechifing, Cofifirrcnce ac times convenient) co roaintaine the knowledge and true worfhip of God, and of true happinefie amongft us; to have prayer twice in the day is lictle enough, P/j/.5$.Z)jtf. 6.10.

I Firft, our neccfllties doe require this daily ferving of God, though we beofthebeft fbrr.

z Secondly 3 thy family being a lictle Church, there (hould be a trimming up and a fitting for the publike worfliip, efpecially feeing that experience tcachcth thatall is little enough.

3 Thirdly, by this meanes wee

have communion with the Lord,

and therefore we (hould often and

checrefully performe this duty.

#4 Fourthly, wee (hould caufe

I our

——— mm* I' ' —***————

Brie ft VireUUnt

*-*

+<**•

our conversion to favour ot the Lord and bis graces, whereas ctherwifc earthly dealing; will c&ufc earthly minds.

5 LafUy, wee have many examples, Gm. 18.16, /fa, 24,15, Act. 10.2.

9 The ninth and Iaftduty,is, that we doe ar 3 or before our lying downe, looke backe and view the day palled : that where wee have bad bkfliiigs,we may be thankfull, and proceed in thciikecourle after : where wee have faulted and failed, we may reconcile our fc!ves ?o God, and fo lie downe in peace^ Ephef.^26.2J*

The ufe of all thefe duties is^chat every day we wcaneand withdraw cur hearts from any noifome baits or provocations, as fufEr us not to arife in the mornicg, to walke through the day, and to lie downc £t night in peace and fafcty under £3ods protection, of which wee muft be carefiill al waies, but especially when unufuall occafioni I ■ ^11,

unto a g$dljLife. fall out which may uafcctlc us.

THc Rules formerly defcribed, ifchey be well followed, will be (iifficienc to bring a Chriftian (chough not to perfect ion in thi* life) yet to fuch aaeftateas he (hill finde reft to his (bule daily, which others (hail want. Yet b:caufi many dangers will be in the way that may hinder the weake, therefore it will be profitable to know the letrs and hindrances which may | hold us backe from peace with Sod- that Co wemaylearnehow to prevent them before they come ind hurt us; or elfe how to rife when by them wee arefallen; or bow to turns into the way when by occafion we are gone ou%

Now themaiae andchiefe letts ire the Divell, with all his force, libtilcy, and malice, and our cvill learts, (o £<rre as they arcunre-brmed; and by meines of both, ill things in the world,though not n their owne nature, but by them

I a made

187

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1

»■■*»

BriefcVireUionr

made occafions to as of falling,and offending God.

FIrft,for the properties of Satan, and his attempts agaiuft us in generally he is a mighty enemy ,and c ruell; for which caufe he is called a great red Dragon, and theacct-fer of ihe brethren,and al(b fabtile, and vigilant,and maliciousras he is ftrong, to bee befetteth all people (chough he belittle obfcrved)and moft of all Chriflians, whom he is openly and refblvedlylecagaiaft. He doth not onely kindle the con-cDpifceoce that is within us, and cur owne lufts, fetting them en fire to doc the evill which wee arc inclined unto; butalfbbaiteththe outward things with poifon, which wee dealc about, that he ir.ay dazcll our eyes, and caft us from our hold j that is, that wee may not kecpe ftill in theChriftian courfe. Our hearts cannot Co fbonc be ranging (chough it be never (b little) but he is ready to meet withf

them,

unto a godly Life.

j

ihem, and fee them forward in] feme evil!, fattening our afft ftionsl upon ic before we be aware : weef cannot be about any outward thing, bur hte is ready to ferve us with it, knowing howtoufe all outward obje&stoour luarts.Yet for all this wee ought not to be difinaied ; for howfocver thele things vex us, yet by Gods grace they (hall turne to our good, to make us ftt more ftore by Gods proteftion, and more cirehilly co kecpe under his wiogj. Hcc hath not left us unarmed, for his ownc ftrength is for our defence and prefervatio:), Colof.i* u. So that howfosverweemay notpre-far>p uoi.fi/ abufe, yet wee may wuh boldnefle (Le unto him for helpe; neitheroughtweetofearc that for our infirmities wefhallbe fhiken off,when as G jd hath made knownchis Will to the contrary, Luke i j, 6. Rather they muft re-member chat they are the children of God, and therefore (hall not be

I 3 unna-

wtt m *mm

I?0

^—•

h

Brieft Vin&ions

unnaturally forfaken, or left to themfelves in their neede, andne-ccflky, but may perfvade them-G lves,that waiting on God, theft combates fball rather turnc to their further exerGift, than to their deadly overthrow. Thus depe? -dingonGodinallevilI$,thcy muft by experience get wifilome.

In particular, the aflaults of Satan are either againft our faith, or elfe againft godlinefle in our life; Srft of the former..

HOw many having difcon-ragements, he prefleth down the wcake faith of new-borne Chriftians, appeareth by that which our Saviour faith to Peter y Luke 22.31.

Sometimes hee terrifieth them with their owne wants, ignorance tynfirajiues,and un worth ineffes: forae with fliasne of fearefull falls, which it feemethto them they are unlikeco avoid : to which end he, bringeth to their remembrance

fuch

■■'«*^

••»•*■

*>*

unto a godly Life.

■I «

fuch good (ervancs of God as have fallen in like manner before them, and feareththem r thac for all their care they Hull never hold out in their faith and holy courfe of life unto the end; but either by afifi&i* ons, or otber provocations, they (hall be turned backe. Byallthefe meanes hee Iaboureth inftantly to deprive them of all hope and c xi-fidence,that they may conclude re* folvedly, that they have no faith. For the refifting ofthefe aflaulcs, theymuft grow better acquainted with the nature and property of God his promlfe?, viz. how true, unchangeable,and perpetual! they be, even as God himfelk is; ihey muft prize thera above all other things,and (end upearnert prayers to God daily : a id ofi^ for this faich to be rooted in them : they mud give daily attendance upon the Miniftery of the Word, ready alfo to receive helpe privately from thofc which are experienced, meditate on Gods promifes, (uch as T 4 are

i<?£

i

■■ ■»

rtH—M»^l4*i«fti I—fc*>M»m i il»i

I?2

I

Bfiefe VmUtons

lie Mattkj.j.&L 9.20. Ltt^.22.3 i.J Now 3 when by Gods blcflfing upon their diligence they have gotten feme Ihy or reft uuo their foules, they muft beware that they are not carried on the other fide to prtfumption, crtooboldtrufting in God, without a certaine ground ofhispromifes: for by this fubtil* cie, Satan doth pre vaile with many, and by thatmeanes bringeth them to dciperate and dangerous fall?.

BVc if hee cannot prcvaile (b farreby his fuggeftions, and temptations, as to bring us to utter unbeliefe,noryet to preemption: yet hee will labour to hinder us, that wee (hall never be rooted nor eftabliflicd in faith; weefhallnot fecle the fweetneffe of ic by pof (tffii)g ic daily: b which kinde he J doth Co farre prcvaile withmoft, even of the faithful! themfelves, that they are ofcen-times fo dif-couraged, as they have fcarcely I any

any great ufe of laich ia refpeft of that which they might have,' Which deceit of our adverfary we muft wiiely efpy, and labour to afmeourfeivesagaififtit,as, w P/i/. 12 4 5. and 27.1. lob 13*15. We mult cake heed that our hearts be not ftollen away with worldly chi igs: wee murt preferve and cfrnifh an high eftimation of the Gofpell: wc rauft deny all worldly wifedome, thit wc m;y be wife to the Lord, and kcepeourfaichas we would our life.

THc like malice doth Satan (hew in hindering believers from godlineflc of life. For as he Iabourcth to keepe the unrege-nerate altogether, from pratt'fiag godlineHc,z/i*.by keeping in them a heart Co accuftomed ro evilly that it cannot fubmit it felfc to the will of God in one thing, as well as another, by holding them h preemption, by keeping them from fcrious confidcration of their eftacc

I 5 and

!■■■■■■ I I ■» ■ ■■ ■ ■— »l

Sriefe UiTefttms

and a&ions, by diflwading them from couniing the godly lift beft ; and finally, by fnaring them in dangerous opinion?, fottifh ignc-* ranee, or clfc in hollow, loo(e» and wilfull minde*; (b dath hee pre-vaile fo farre even with Gods people, as to hinder them from proceeding in godlinefle, and that chiefcly by theft mcanes.

^i By keeping them in wane of fomegood things, without which theycaonotconftandy proceed in a godly life;

2 By prefllng them with foroe evitf.

3 By unfettliog them through occafion of things lawful!.

Of the firft kinde arc three maine Iects.

i Firft when Chriftians arc hol-den from a conftant courfe of god-lined;?.

2 When thejr fall frona th:ir firft eihte, or &cii love,

3 Whci they want a fuffictent miaiftery, Of the firft fort, there

>to<

-* ■■■

are

-

J

unto ag$dlyLife,

*95

are many which chinke ic not meet co tic themfclvestoany dire&ton of hading their life; buc are content with fome generallcareanl good meaning; than whomthefe arc not better, which forafcafon keeps frme good order; buc by licdeand little they fall to doe k fl;ighcly : even for fafhion in a great parr; and rather through Cjftomc, thin with delight and comfort; and all becauft their hearts goe. not wirh their aftions conftantly^eicher doe they regard or looke to their consciences in one thingas in another, that they might beicept in peace.

The Remedy agaiaft this, is faithfully to endeavour every day to be well fettled, according co the rules formerly mentioned. We muft especially labour by fatch^ even to fecde upon the promifcs. which God hath made for the pre-(ervation and protcftion of his. children; heartie prayer muftoft be ufedj and watchfulnefleagaiurt

our

•

••»»— •

Briefc Dtrttttons

our c/peciall infirmities; It muft be contiuuall, together with oft and due con Adoration wba* a precious treafure this kindcof life i*. And if through negligence we doe fid!;, we rouft not lie (U'l in hardncfie cf hearty butrtmrnetohiroastocur Fatherland hee will hcale us: and chough wee cannot prefemly hive t-hat confidence which fometim^s wee havehad 3 yetletusrcturne, chough with fome fhamefaftneffe, even ftanding afarre off, with the Israelites, £#*<£ 3 3vS. 10.

He fccondfpeciallLetarifing from want, is, the leaving of oar firff love: for at our firft con-verfion 9 when the exceeding love of God in Chrift is (hed abroad in our hearts, fo as it makcth our fclves admire j this conftratneth us to love him a gaine moft fervently anddcarelyj his Woraaad Mi r >i~ fters, with all our brethren, moft fenfibly and heartily: and this in Scripture is called oar gift love, JRev.2.4. Noy

unto a godly Life

\

Now, when this (hall wax cold through dulnefle, (bthfulnefft, and fcrgetfulneff%&. ic muft need be a hainous thing in the fight of God, who lookcth that our works fnould be more at the lift than at the firft,as our knowledge is raore, and cxperi-nee greater, Rev 2. 21. Yet this corameth ofc to pafle both in Minifters and people, to their great ftumie,, though otherwife they kcepefbmecjurfcin fcrving God, Rev. 2. 2. which they fhew by wearinefle,or at leaft wife,little pleafare taking in the publike Mi-niftcry, negltft of private prayer, conference, Muruall exhortation, &c. untowardnefie in good workeg, abating of their Jove to the brethren,imbracing the world, e.iteraining of ill-cocupanifhipj, wi'h heart-burning againft the Minifies that tell them the truth. By ihefe and fach like figrie*, ma ny doe (h:w how much 'hey h*ve 1 >il thsir firft love, whereby they give great occafiM

of

197

(

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Briefe DiteUims

of discouragement to the w*akc, and of lamenting to the beft.

This was fore-told by our Saviour Chrift, Mittb.2^ i 2. where al(b hec (hewed how hard it is to keep-, and harder to recover our firft lore. Thirdly, admonifbing all found hearted Chriftians to looke hccdfully^ and carefully to nourilli and prefcrvc that holy, pure, aad fifftfpark of grace kind--led in them, againft all chat may come in the way, to quench and put out the firac And although the worke be hard, yet wee hive the C^mmandement of G;>d for our warrant, and his promife for our encouragement; therefore ought we not to faint or flkeke for any impedinaent,but ft tour hearts daily to count it our grcateft worke, tokeepc our fifft love. •THHe third let of thisfcinde, if, X the want of an ordinary and found Miniftery of the Word of God, whereby the way to falvati-on and godlineQe is plainly and in

good

U.

unto *£idlj Life.

good order, with love and diligence taught fo ofc in the weeke^ as the people can conveniently at-tend upoQ the farce. This is the light of the wosrld^ndthe Sunne J which vaarmeth all the creatures I of she earth with his influence.; (b that thofe which enjoy k not 5 tnoft needes be as the foado wed places, which either bring forth nothing, or that whichio fowie and unsavory* How the Divell hath laboured in all ages and Nations, to hinder the paffage. of this Gofpell, may eafilybc perceived, if wceperufe well the A&sof the ApofUes, and other Hiftories of the Church: how he doth prevaile, ourowne eyes and eares caa wimefie: The remedy therefore is for fuch as want, to relieve themfelves with it, where they may with moft con-veniency enjoy }tg aud to foe ear-neftly, that they may live under if, (which (hould be more generally granted of God, if by fervent prayers and other Chriftian indea-

vours, j

a

«3-

l9f

Br'tefe DircUiom

voursic we r: fought for.) When they doe enjoy ir, then mud they prize it above all chat they have, or ever can enjoy in this world; for thofc which efteeme lightly of ir, muft heare what the Scripture (peakech of them, MAtth.%. 11,12. AmasK.i 1.12.

Thefe arc the cMcfe lefts that men have by wants; whereun-co may be add:d thofe troubles which fbme good Chriftians have through feare of their ownewanrs^ though without caufr. For remedy whereof (chat they be not fWal* lowed up through deadly heavi-nefle) they jmuft take unto them godly boldnefle,co confider that there is great caufe of repychg 9 even in that for which they are heavie,!^*. in their feare, cate, hungringand chiiftingjPr^S* 14. Mattb.^ 3. and therefore they ought rather to be thankefull for that thsy have, than utterly to be discouraged for that they wanr. Of (mail beginnings come great

*»

*«

pro.

unto a godly Lift.

201

proceedings* of one little fp^rke^

a mighty flimj ; and the tall Okes 1 were fbraeiimes but (mall Akorns: hce bath wellbegunne, that hath in truth begunne; and hec hath much, who feeleth that hee wan* techmuchj-

THc fecoad kinde of generall Lets are, the unmodified af-feftions wherewith believers are opprefled. Concerning which in general!, ic will be profitable for every one to marke with what hee is moft incambred,and moft eafily overcome of, and by whatoccafi-ous he is readilieft drawne to them; that hec may the more diligently and wifely labour to prevail a-gainft them.

In particular, onekfnde isfearc and doubt of perfevering by means ofaffli&ions, &c. Thisdotheafily take hold of weake ones; therefore the Scripture fore-warnech of it, M.uth. io 28. Phil. 1. 28.

This,

-1

Brief* TtireUUns

This, if ic doe prevail cannot but feeble utterly the powers of their minds; and 10 with-hold the inftruments of the body from pra-<5U(ing well any kind of duty.

The way to remedy it, rauft be fought for in the Scripture, PJ*/. 30. 5. 2 Cer. 4.17. Hcb.i2. 11. a Cor. p. 10. Iam.\.$.

Another unmodified affefition, is 3 pride, and ovcr.wcening of themfdves: examples whereof we have, ftraf.3.17. 1 Cor. 4.8.

This maktth men waxc weary of learning, reroifle of their diligence and care for good, to account meanly of thofc which arc loole and irreligious; or elfe fall intofe&SjfchifmeSjand herefies,or at feaft bring themlelves in an accused melancholy and folitary life.

The rcmcc'ie is laid downe, Rrv. 3. 17. 1C0n3.18.and 4. 1, Pfal 119 12 We muft diligently examine and confider our waies, till wee have found out our finnes

unto

unto agvdly Life.

/

unto true humiliation; wee muft compare our (elves not with the worft, but with the forwardeft Ghrifttans, and holicft examples.

Another uamortified aff, ftion is (loth j the remedy to fiade out the roote and fountaine of this miP chicfej andforemove i^Trcv. u ?2%& 14.12. Encouragements we havefromGod > 2<?/&.i.9 £p£,3 19.

AMongft other unftaid aflfe&i-ons which are inward lees of god'hefle, tucVie or peevifh fro-wardnefie is not the leaft; when men are frettingagainA perfbos or things that doe croffe ns^thougb it be but trifles. Thas many are caught upon the fudien, which at other times could eafily wichfhnd greater provocations, as we may fee of David, if wee compare 1 &W.24.7. with 2t. 13.

This i9 a high offence to God, a needleflc trouble to our fclvcs, a bereaving us of godly wifiom?, yea, and ofcommon reafon alfo.

THere-

203

"■» L I

Britfe VbeBUns

***•

Therefore wee muft make diligent fearcb, and inquire whether wee be prone to theic ftrvile paffi-ons, or no, and Co if wee doe la-boar to prevent it 5 but if wee be at any time overtaken with it,then wemuft (as (bone as may be) fit our (elves apart, ferioufly tocon-fider of the unfcemelinefleof the thing, &c. until 1 wee can (hake it off, and after take more care that it returne not againe upon us.

Another troublefome affettlon is, that men through ignorance or unbeliefe, grow weary of proceeding in a Chriftian life, oratleaft in (peciall duties thereof: the danger of this may appeare by the contrary forewarniogs, GaL 6. 9. 1 Or. 16. 13.

This Sacan labonreth to e&ft by reproach, &c.

Wee muft therefore get aflu-rancc, that God his grace (halite fuffic e it for us, Mdtth % 11.31.

Many other aff^ftions there are of the like nature, and alike to be

fliunned

unto s godly Lift t .-■ *■ ' • >^—— — ,

ffaunncd; as unjuft anger, hearr-

barnings 3 loofenefleand Iightnefle

of hearr 5 rafhnefle 3 haftineflV, lum-

pithneffe, and melancholy, with

divers fuch like ; the beginning

and firft rifing whereof, alchough

our o woe hearts doe bret d,y ct t he

ftrength of them is of Satan.

BEfides the fore-iiamed evill iffrttlonSj there are other worldly lulls, wherby many Christians arc much difguiftd, as namely carnall pleafare, and inordinate defire of riches.

For the firl>, many are drowned infmfualky, and the fbtttfh plca-fureof the body 3 Co that they become even blfad and impotent: for when a man giveth his heart liberty co defire ftollen waters, and to count them fweece, not cafting thera up, and arming bimfelfc a-gaintt them as he ough r ;and giveth his eye leave to feed it felfe with vaoity, by little and little his prayers become weake,and unable to drive out fuch foui!hnefle,but it .

Iodgeth I

205

i

Briefe DireUians

lodgeth in him 3 and fo is made a flivc unto ic. Aa example we have of Sampfo*, J»&g* 15. Nay,fome goe fo farre, rhac they are ftnflcfle at the fight of ir, when as they ftiould tremble to behold in what ftate they are : for their prayers arc dead, their burthen of Conference importable, their lofle of grace unfpeakeable 3 the gricfes of the godly unutterable, andthem-feives become as fooles in Jfrael, and fpcftaclcs to the prophane world to movepaftime.

i Firft, for the avoiding of theft mifchiefes; we muft make it our greateft care to abide in the favour of God,, and holjfafttheat furanceof it from d \y to day.

2 Wee rauft be willing to fub-mk our fcivca to the yoakc of Chrift.

3 Wee muft hold in oar lufts and imaginations, as it were, with 'but and bridle, that they range not after burtfull and poifoned bakes.

4 We

i «■*■! » w % im <i w

i tmn.m

4 We mi'ft {hun and avoid all the cccafions and objeftsof fuch Irrrifchiefe. And efpecially, we muft pe fufpicicus and fearefull of tbofe .fimio which wee know our felves to be nioft prone and inclined.

THc other worldly Iuft isnoy-foine care about the things of this life, which is a common evill under the Same; for it creepeth upon men (b fecretly and fubzly^ that hardly Hiall one perceive the danger of it until! wee have taken hart by it: yet the danger is deadly, forwhcreworldlineflefaftneth ujon a man, it devourethgodli-neffe, as i i i here had been none before; it fuffireth no good thing to grow by it, but choaketh it, and overfliadoweth any gift of God wharfoever, and fo changeth even good mcn,that they are not aware of ir 5 that they become moft unlike themfel/es, iTim6,\o.

By this, men in worldly dealing! become greedy of profic,ra(h

Brief* Dire&ions

i;i nuking, aad carelcffc in performing of covenants- coo much Ioofcnefik, earthly rejoycing, and fretting when we thrive nor; overlaying our frlves with worldly dealing?, (b that no time is fie for better ufes.

For the redreffingof this* fbure things are required:

i Let every man looke carefully that no man be hurt, or fuftaine any lofle or danger by hint, i Tbefa. 6. by this he (hall be freed from all the fins againft our neighbour, commanded in the eighth Commandemenr.

2 His care muft be not only to doe no hurt, but al(b to doe good to thofc whom wee have to doe whb, Rom. 13. 8. as to the Mi-nifter in maintenance, to our family in provifion, to the pocre in reliefer &c*

3 Hkede muft be taken, thar riches hurt us not 5 that they be not meanes to draw us unto fin, Eccltf. $. 12.

4 We

unto a g$ilj Lift.

'+*>*'

I 2*9

4 Wee muft provide that wee be bettered by our wealeh cowards God his fervice. DeHt.i% 47.

As for the poore,they (hall beft ! teflifie tha' they are noc tainted with this finne, if chey hold faft in-nocencie s contentatioD,andthank£ giving. Reafbns to move us to the avoiding of covctoufhefle,are,

1. Firft, becaufe wee camot enjoy them long, but either they fhal bee taken from as,or we from them; 3nd yet this fhort lime is al-fo uncertaine,!,*^. 16.2.

2. Bee mfe they are not our own but borrowed,/^. 16.12.

3 If wee bee not faichfull in the fmaller.it is an argument, Jthat wee will be much leffe in the greater,

4 B?caufe wee (hall give an accounts of all other thing*, fbe£ pecullyof our getting, uSng, and forgoing of cue goods and commodities, Matib.2^ 14. Lu 1^6.2.

THcrc is a third kinde of lets,. whereby many beleevers are K hindred 1

I

■^^

BricfeViteUhnf

hindrcdfrom going on in a godly courfe^is. All kindcs of outward I things which of themfelvcs arc not cvilljbnt are made by Satan,occafi-ons to hart and wound our foules.

i Affli&ions thongh fent of God for our great good, as is to becfeene, jy^.12.7.1 \3tfaU 119. ji.& 1C0r.11. 13. Iam.1.2. Yet are by Satan and our owne corruptions, made occafions of impati-ence/rettingjpenfivenefle^and many other evils • againft which we rouft arme ourfelves before they come,that then our unruly pafltons may not break out Co impatiently, John 16.33.

2 So in prosperity hefubtilly maketh drunken our hearts with loveofourgood, puffes them up with pride and high mindedneffe, &c

To thele dangerous evils (hall the godly [hcmfelves taedrawne, except xhey carefully prevent them.

It is therefore a fpeciall point of

u f >

1

mme a g$dly Life.

2lt

wifedome, in time of peace that we beware chat wee leanc not upon outward things, for then wee (hall cafily beecaft downc with e-very blaft of adverfity.

3 Another occafion of nnfetling our hearts are houfhold affaires, and things that conccrne our maintenance, by the unwarie ufe wber-of, men become unquiet, wayward, diftrafted, and unlike Chri-ftiang.

A wife man therefore will unburden hirafelfe of theft multitude of worldly dcalings,which wil not fuffer the raindc to bee freed, and will fo fubdue his affe&ions,that he may have them in order as well in one thing as in another.

4 By change of company ,d welling, and acquaintance, men re* ceive much hurt fien. 19.30.

5 The fight of godlincfle to be contemned, and licentious courfes to be maintained,isa great fcandal 1 Pfal. 73 .

6 Familiarity with the wic-

K2

ked!

ked is of great force.

Many other occafions there are byourfenfcsconveieduntous, a-gainft which wee mutt daily ftrjve by keeping on our Armour, Handing on our watch, following that direction which Gqd hath given, and depending on that grace whichhechath promifcd; cverre-membring that we doe not cafl off feare of danger, for occafions of finne (hall never bee wanting, no, not in things lawfull and good; nor Satan waiting upon them,wji h fecret extenuations oi finne, and hiding the punilhtucnt.

NOW becaufe there being Co many lets in the waies ofgod-lirefie, and thofefo hardly psftd, and difficult enrerprifes are alwaies commended by the good that fol-ioweththem; ic is neceflary that the great priviledges \shich belong to a godly life (hould bee explained • that fo the godly may know their owne happincfT', and

ihivc

unto a godly Life.

21J

ftrive to enjoy ic; the wicked may ftc what great good things they deprive themfelves of; and to all men the Chriliian liferafcybeein better account, which now of all forts is too much underprifed, and fonegle&ed, and of forne contemned and fcorned.

To omit therefore all thofc benefits which are common to them with the wicked (although thefe ajfo are farremore fweeceand Savory to the godly than to others) and thofe alfo which are proper to fome of the faithfull jia refpect of their callings, thofe onely (hall bee nanacd in which the wicked have no part nor portion, and yet ' all the faithful! may polfefle, one as well (chough not fo much) as 1 another,

Thefc are either fuchas are given us in this life to be er> J )yed tor our encouragement, or elfe thofe which God hath in ftore for us in the life to come.

K 3

The

»eamt

214

\

Briefe VirtUtons

THe firft and chicfcftof them which are given us in thislifr, i% that all true Chriftians may know thcmfelves to bee beloved of God, and that they (hall bee fa-fved. 1 J^.3.1.^5.13. Iob.1.12. and that by better evidence than any man can have of the things hee holdeth in this life. This is not fo well knowne at the firft, but after experience gathered of the unchangeable love of God towards U5,our confidence is increafed; yea the longer wee enjoy this privi-!cdge,the better wee know it; neither can it be loft wholly or finally. Ok Some of ©ads Children after they have beene thus perfwa-ded, hare fallen to doubting a-gaine.

tdnfiv. True C Wftians are renewed but in part # and therefore fom t ace by the fubtilty and malice of Sathin brought to thenegleft or carelefie ufi )g of the meanes whereby faith is confirmed) and Co to doubting; and many not (6

offending^

unto a godly Life.

ai5 |

offending, doe too coo eailly giv< place untodiflruft, thereby depriving thcmfelves of this great pri-viledgc.

This priviledge is the greater becaufe of the unfpeakeable glory and cverlafting joy which it brim gech with it, whereas other delights are but fleecing and momen-tarie.

Which greatnefle will eafily ap-peare if wee well confider the unfpeakeable woe and horror offuch defperate perfons as fecle the want of this happinefle either here., or in hell.

AFter God hath vouchfafedthe fairhfull this honour, that they may know themfclycs to bee beloved of him hcre,and that they ftnllbefived hereafter; heedoth not then leave them,but is al waies with them,and ha'hafpeciallcare of them above others, nay, when he is angry with others. Rom. 5.5.

»am

mtmimmii* *"" t^h—*■»■

■ il mi

-*»■■ »

216

#r*>/* Vinftions

$.&2$*K &I0.8,31.0" 23. iStf.j

He eftceroeth them not oncly as his houfhofd fervants, but as his friends, leh>i<$. i5.hisSonnesand heires. Rcrn.S. 17; his precious jcreafare, EaW.i^.yca^he hon~-jreththemfo farre, as hec calleth them and makcththem kings 5 E.*v. 1 p.5. AH which is both cercainc aid conftati? unco the fiithfal^but ic is not fo with the wicked* fo chat by this ic appeareth, that the ftate ofthe pooreft child of God, is farre better than the bed of the ungodly, yea, better than them-felves fom^cimes would have as-kedpr thought of. I

TH^fe who are thus cared for of God, receive grace from him to live according to his Will, that at death they miy enter into hisglory • for he teachetbehem to be fruitful I in good Iife,and alfo to avoide the foulc offences*

As

■ ■ ■ ■

unto a godly Life.

Aiforthefirft,s>i£;. a holy life whereunco God enable:h his by his owee power, ic is a great pre-rogatiue, in chat they need not account the Cfariftiati life comber-fome, uafavory, heavie, and tedious, as many d j;bac an eafie yoake light burthen, and plcafant race : this is in the Scripture called ble£ fednefle, as c Pfalm.i 0 2. & 84.2.

Many indeed there are, even good peopIe,w cl1 in great part goc without this privilege; but the caufe is,?hat they draw not by faith daily ftrengthfrom lefus Chrift to fubdue their lufts, buctruft either to their owne ftrengeh or in other meanes, until! being ftuftraredof their defire, they either fall into great vexation, or elfeplaiue f.cu-rhyand loofeucffe. F,>f the remedy whereof,thcy muitlabourtobe fledfiftin fairh, not yeelding unco \ diftruft, but learne to know that God who hath taken care or his, will not leave them in their infirmaries.

2I 7

■• I

^^

"*«» ^1

1

2l8

Bfiefe "DtreUtmt

mitics,but according to his all-fat-ficicn: power will fuccour and deliver them, which \izkey once believers God rcquircth vvc ihould) then (hall they fee themfclves mightily ftaidahd upholden until they b:c {ctzt great liberty, and that it was the divell who before held them in feare and bondage.

Ch. We dare not believe that G odwil I give us foch grace,cxcept firft wee could overcome our fpe-ciall corruptions.

Anfwi Wee have no ftrength of ourownetoanyfuch worke, but wee muft obcaine it by Emh which is alfocommanded us. IW&3. 23. and rill we doe fo 5 we fliallbehol-dca from our right by the craft cf $atan.

AS for the fecond, viz. that the faithfull are taught and enabled ofGodco avoid great falls and reprochfu 11 evils; chat is plain Pro 19.23. Pf.i 19.10 11.A id the tX4\\\ k At% jt Enoch, Abra^arn^M*-

H*to*g9dty Ly*.

■*■-*.*

219 t

[esjofbud^amael and Da'iiel 3 Job^ with others who for the time of :heirneeracquaintancewith God, rommictcd not any fuch hainous Jcrefpafles^s were common ftaines [and blots in the livesof others.

By this Co excellent and invaluable a priviledge, the doing of good becommeth meat anddriake unto the faithfull, ft that they can (ervcGod even in a goodandioy-fullheart in all things, Vettt.i** 18. & 28. 47. minde heavenly things without that eedioufnefle which is fcene in others* performe earthly bufineffes with heavenly minds, andalwaics rejoyce before the Lord.

Not that they have no rebellion in them; for they fi id a ftrife al way & are in part led captive o^ic, that theymight no: triumph before the viftory 5 partly that feeling their owne weakneffe, they rmy mere wholly depend on God; md partly chat their future vift >ry mjy ap-peare more glorious: but all this

while

—ir*

*M

* iffii

220

I 1

Briefe TtirtUions

\

while, though many wounds be received, the Chriftian is never fo vanqui/hed, but chat recovering againe by the power of God, hee gocth on with ftedfafi j ^y.

A Further Liberty i*, that if the godly doe by any occafi-.j j on fall from their foled courfeinto | any offence, whereby their con-fcienccs are wounded and accufe themfelves; they may returne a-gaiae onto God, with ccrtiine at iurance of being received of him, lohn 2.a. Without thispriviledge, there were bat fmall encouragements for any Chriftian 3 becaufc of oar ofcen falls.

Therefore the Lord doth not onely permit us to doe thus, but calleth and waiteth for ir, yea,he is highly offended, if wee doe not, ler.%,^ and for the effc&ing of ic hath given charge to the Paftours, asEs^f^aadtoocherSjG*/ 6. i. how grca; a priviledg this is, they kacw full well who have experience

7-^^~— "3*=^S -

unto a godly Life*

-=*=

221

enceof an afRi&ed confeience, to whom no tiding? can be-flnre gladfomethan this, ifit be rightly applyed. It draweth from fuch many thanks and praifes, and (o bringeth muchhonoar to God.

Bat this rr.uft be warily and wifely received, that wee neither take occafion hence to imbolden our felvesto fiine, or content our felvcs wtthfMght repentance: for Gods mercies rouft be inftaotly (ought for,and then his favour may not be doubted of, as appeareth by

thatexampIejE^.io. i.

So that here two extremes are to beavoided/e/isr. that neither we. prefame upon fleight and jhollow repentance, norlanguifhindefpe-| rate ard unfruitfull forrow, but ia found humiliation hope ftedfaftly for pardon, and dy to our fouleg, as Vavid doth, Pfal. 43. 5.

The fame that is Ipoken of aSu-

allfinnes, muft al fobs under flood

of dulnefli, id leocfle, unprofitable

.iarrenncifeofche heart 3 and iiich

1 other

^ -a=— :

Briefe DireStims

4 ' * ■ ■>!

other corruptions which arc wont co quench the workc of God his Spirir, and to be the feed of maay curfcd evills. The Lords will is, that from he^ce we fhould expeft in faith as well ftrength to weaken them, as mercy to forgite them.

T He very helpes themfetves which Gad hath given to us, to farther our faWatioD^ are great priviledger, & fo to be accounted. As that by Prayer we may have acceffe onto God to breake our miade, lay open eur griefr, and that with confidence : and that by watchfuloeffe, wee may efcape thole dangerous (hares of Satan, wherein fo many are bungled,a id chat wee may in the end of every day make up our accounts with J :>y,and kecpeall ftreighc. For unco thefe, and (uch like helpes^ God hath proraifed a bleffing, and we muft by faith lookc cooftantly for the fame 5 for there is do fruitc of the beft help:s if wee

ufe

!

**»

I !■ ■

unto a godly Life.

»• - ™ *———— i- ■■ ——»»—' ■ ■ ufe them not in faith, lam \. 6.

Thefeare great privilcdgcs^nd howfoever ofmany through eanh-linefle,fbth,and way-wardr.efk of their hearts they be not fo eftee-med; and therefore either not ufed> or elft formally or fl:ight]y, yet wee (hould account the more of them; albeingfo glorious^hat the dim eyes ofprophanc peribns cannot behold them : and praife God the more^ who maketh them Co fweet and gainful! unto us, which unto fb many are ?ery gall aod wormewood.

22$

ANother great proiledge ig 3 that the Lord tcache:h hi$ 3 how to carry themfelves, and keepe their integrity in all eftates of life.

As firft^ in peace and profperity, when a man hath riches^ Honour, health, friends, delights, and plca-fures, &c. This is a flippery cftate in which no man of himfelfccan ftand, and therefore isanoccafion

of

m r § ■ — •

m~m0

r

■ i 11 f '

224

Brsefe Dirctlions

of falling to wioft men, bucGod ceacheth his to ftandin this flp-pery way.-

For, firft, whenhecaufeththe Dcftiinc of coccntation, fobriety, and the contempt of this world to be taught unto them, then hee dnweth their hearts inwardly to attend unco ic, believe it, love and pra&ifeir, Bsfides this, God cau-feth them oft to fet before their eyes the daily changes of all things under the Sunne$ and by the oft and deepe consideration of thefe things as they obferve them, their lufts are appalled, and th* pride cf life is greatly abated in them,p/*/.

102, 22.

So thatby thefe means the Lord fo frameth his, that they defire no more, nor no longer than their j heavenly Father feeth expedient j toufe thefe outward things, as if they u&d them not* and yet fo to ufe them as that they may be helps to themfclves and others in the way of godliucfle.

All

AH which is not Co to be vander-flood, as if every believer had this grace, but that God hath bequeathed, and doth offer this to all, though oncly they have if, which doe efteeme ofitandfeekeforir, in faith at Gods hands.

SO Iikewife in regard of afflictions, the prerogative of God his children is great; firft,he holdeth many tribulations from them, which otherwife by their fianes they doe plucke upon themselves, P/S/.52.10,11. which muft need2s be Co, becaufe affli&ions fpring from finne, aad therefore where lii is greater or leffer, the affl'.&ioas will bz proportionable. The truth of it,i/i*. that they miy be freed from many troubles, is plaine, becaufe Co many doe fill thtmfelves with in ward troubles of mhde and conference, by giving place to their unbridled af-feftiais, which br^rde many perturbations! and by caking licenfe

to

Briefe VireUuns

co themfelvcs in things which are not ftcmely. They bring alfo many outward troubles upon them-felves by their fins, as flhame, poverty, difeafcs,evill children, &c. All which may often be avoided by the grace of God, iffinne were taken heed of and refitted, and if by labour and watchfulncfle the unruly heart wsre fubdued.

Whereby the way^we may ob* ferve how unwifely they doe,who (hun the fincere pra&icc of religion, that they may be freed from troubles, when as Religion doth fre^a maa from fo many ♦

AS the faithfull are freed wholly from troubles • fo when they are in, God delivereth them out of many, when asthe wicked reraaine in theirs, ?r*. 1i, 8. Examples both of the Church in ge-nerall, and of the faithfull in particular, are fufficiently knowne to all that know any thing in the jScripturcs: all which are recorded,

nntoagodlyLift.

cd, not to (hew onely that the

ithfull have beene delivered out f trouble (for that were no fingu-ar thing, but commoa for the picked) but that they are delivered in the fatherly love of God, is %ppcareth by the meanes which they ufed; as prayer, faftlng,&c. ~~his the wicked have never, nor always the godly.

Oh The Fathers had particular promife for their deliverance, but Co have not we.

Ah. In 'he maine andchiefeft thiogs,God hath fpoken as plainly and fully to us 3 as to them': wee may al waiesafftre oar (elves, that God hath a mod tender and fatherly care over us, and that hec will fie w the fame in the time of our need, either by delivering us ifhe fee it good and expedient* or elfe by giving us that grace which (hall be fufficient for us. The not teaching or not believing of this do&rincjCiufcth much nncheerful-neflc & di&ontent in our troubles,

as

Briefe VireBi&u

as grudging againft God, unlawful! (hifcing, carnall feares, &c. wheras,if it wereotherwife, much i hcaycnly»comfort might be reaped in our lives, which now is wanting. j

When it pleafcththe Lord to lay anyaffliftions uponhi> 3 they may allure themfelves it is for their exceedinggoodj which peifw*fi-onifitibfefetled, and the contrary power of carnall reafbn, checked and fuppreffed^ we (hall have wif-dome to looke for affli&ions daily, and be ready to receive them from God thankfully,and meekely, this wxfedorae muft be (ought for of

NoWiif wee would take good by affliftions,we muft firft receive that word with full affentj which \$ y Rom 8.28. All things worke for the beft to thofe which love God: and then confider ferioufly how great reafon there isj that wee fhould yeeld up our felvcs, our wills, and. all that w*e have unto

God

(

1 »/

1

'

unto a godly Life.

-**■

j>od his will^nd thinke thac good for us which God thinketh good • JbrGod fendeth affli&ions Co his Children,

I Firft,That they may have experience of his iovc in delivericg :hem.

2 Secondly,that they may have J proofe of their faich and patience.

3 Thirdly, thac they may not b:c condemned with the world.

4 Fourthly, that they may bee

I purged from their finncfulldrofiV. 5 Fifthly, to weane them from this world. If thefe things bee knowneandb^leeved of us, wee (hall find them fo to our exceeding comfort; and though foraccimes in mall we may feemc to bee neg-IcQcd or forgotten, yet wee fhall fecaclcngth rtatitisnothingf}.

Ob. It affliflions (hill turne to our good, then wee need take no further thought about chem.

Anfw* Thjt promife doth not warcanc us to be careleiT • f jr if we behave our fdves wilfully, block-

y

ago

i

Briefe Virt&hns

-«■

ifhly or foolilhly in affliftions, they will nunc to our great hurt and vexation: but if wee mingle that Scripture with faith, it Willi caufe us to receive all crofles from i God as fent in lovejnot to murmur at them, but thankcfully and patiently, and alio with examination of our felves, If lb bee that any fin hath brought cvillupon us- and then we {hall have proofe of Gods i grace in us,experienceof his favor towards u$,prcfervationfrora ma-nyfins.increafc of humiliation and thankfulneflc, preparation for the bearing of greater, with (bme comfort at Ieaft in the end, and hope in the midft^ which (hall not makeusafhamed* Whenwefinde not this doftrine fcvorie and fweec tons, nor the uftofkinouraffli-ftions. Jet us not charge or challenge the Lord for ir, butconfider what we have loft byunbeleefc,

NOw befides all the former privileges feverally D therc is one that refpe&cth them all of

great

unto a godly Ltft.

-^•~

great price^ and thac is, incrcafc and growing of all thofe graces: orGod givech to his greater every way,than they would have (brae-times either expe&ed or asked, Ccl. i. 9.

An example whereof we may fee in Mofes, if we compare his later times with his former > and in the Apoftles. This priviledg, if it bz duly confidered.addech great courage, and yecldeth much comfort to Gods children : when they (hall know thac this grace is offered them of God,even that like plants they (hould grow and increaft in Gods Houfe, and as the Sunne they (hould Quae more and more untill Midday.

Aad bowfoever the Divell ray-feth many occafions of fainting, (loth, deadnefle of fpiric, and earthly mindcdnefle,neglcfting of meanes, &c. yet may wee not be di/couraged, but prefle forward, depending onGodspromifej and j following his dirc&ion. J Ail

23 i

J

*32

Briefs DireUwis

A S hec that makcih a good be-**ginniDg,{hall increafe &grow in goodndle, fo he that increafech daily, fhall make a good end at length: for all true believers fhall conch ue to the end in a good and godly couT(c/Pfa.tf.$7.PJ!;i/.u6, lob 6.39.8* 10,28. which as in ic felfc it is a great priviledge, Co hit the greater inthatGcd makethit fcnowne to his children, and draw-eth their heartsto believe the fame, even when the fee no ground for it in themfelves, 1 Fc**<\ 5. 1 lob. 1 }, 13. iThef.5 9.

This is a treafare invaluable, mightily reviving & gladding the hsartsof Gods children, and in-couragingthem withcheerfulncfle to follow the gedly life, and ali meanes of proceeding in if. For they|wbich takecccafion from this deftine to waxeflothfull, world-ly, idle, vaice, &c. they know not what it meanetb, but pervert that wh'xh they know nor, to tfrrir ownedtftruftion.

The

m*=

The truth and certainty of this pri?Hedge is not to be doubr ed of, though wee ice good men at their death to ftiewlcnail tokens of grace and of a happy departure : for there may be many impediments, and howfoevcr ic may feeme, yet this is certain? $ of a good life com-meth a good death, Pfalm.5j.27. Sometime indeed for conreft ton of fom e fin, or for example, the Lord may fetid fuch a death as is lefle comfortable,aiin Ufa 1 King. 13. 24. and in the Prophet that was fent to Urobotm i yea,(bmetimcs a good Chriftian may offer yiolence to himtelfe, not [knowing what he doth* yet being formerly of a holy and,unrebukeable convcrfaion, he is not to be judged according to that one a£ion, how unwarrantable and dangerous foerer in it felfc.

Much lefle ought perfection to ftemefo grievous, as that it could not ftand with a good eftate, and finall perfeverance, efpccully feeing we hare much incouragement

L to

•

Mm

J

*3*

Britfc dirtciims

co the fuffering ofic, by examples, promifts, andpredi&ous inhc]y Scripture.

This perseverance then being fb precious, and yet fo cercaine* lec us then nourifh the hcpcofitiaour feives dailyby keeping ia us a wil-lingnefle to die,

2 By frequenting medication of the vanity of this world, and all that therein is, CV.3.1.

Thirdly, by holdirg faft our rejeycing inChrift, iCr.5.31. by mortifyingot lb, and keepirgour hearts frora the love of ir, {fW.3.5.

Laftly, by inuring our felyes, to beare fmaHaffli&iocs,arid foco deny oiir i;\vcs,thac we cay the better undergoe greater when they ihall be fent.

NOw that wherccn all the former doe depend, and where-at they aime, is the ur:fpeakeabl. glcry which was prepared for is before the beginning ofthe world, begun in rhisiifej aud to be fully ana peril ft.y er.j ;yncc, id the Bfc

ro

untp a godly Life.

to come, This for our capacity i* (hadowed out by many earthly companions and referabhnces of chofe chinas which dot moft dc-light us,as honour ,treafure,iiche?, beauty, friends, plcafure, joy, in-herirance,&c.

Our company there (hall be Chrift, with his holy Asgcils, bleffed Apoft'es, Prophet?, Martyrs, Confcffbrs, &c.

The habitation it fclfcispemn-nent and everlaftiog, and Co are all the tteafures that arc enjoyed therein.

The eftate of Pri.:ce3 is not to

be compared with that happinefle.

All the glory which waa in this

world, even before the fall, was

but a Shadow in refpeft of this, the

glorious aod unfpeakeable joy

j which Gods children hivehetcis

j great, i C $r * *• 9* an d nuking a

I day of their life,bettcr than a thou-

' (and of och?r meo8, T/*/. 84.10.

yet this is but a tafte of that which

is to come. Fot then ail teares

L 2 I /hall

235

V

•.

1 %l6

Briefe d<n&uns

<*m,

*mcmm

(hall be wiped from our eyes; for fin and death (hall be no more.

Thispriviledge added untoall the former doth Efficient commend the happy coodi ion of Gods children, cfpecially to thofe that know theft things to belong to themfclves^and find the comfort of them. But this cffcftuall Knowledge of Gods willi to apprehend them by faith in particular, is a particular gift of God tohisElcft; not enjoyed of any other, no not o( the grcatcft ana mod judicial! Clarkesand Divines, Mmh* ij. 11. which doth indeed make this gift more precious, in that Gods children have grace to draw down ill good from God in his promift • which naturall men cannot doe; for flefh and blood givcth not tkis to any. But God draweth his children to the knowingand believing of it: Firft by his Word, and Secondly by their owne experience, which bringeth moft neereand familiar communion with God by

his

^ ■I M «I

«Pi

unto * godl] Lift.

237

•

his Spirit., from whence fpringcth moft uofpcakeable joy.

T^He/e being thegreatPriviled-*ges which our God hath appointed for hi*, and called them to partake of; moft lamentable it i* that many {hbuld be ft ignorant as not to defice to know them, (b careleffc as to rej^ft them/o obfti-nace as to tread them under £x>ce 3 and fo to leade a life foil of mi fe-ry for wine of therm

TbeChriftian lite is termed io Scripture,* pilgrimage, a fowixig in teares,&c.

Therefore we hadneedof, nay therfore we have thefe privilege?; for otherwise wee could never un-dergoe the tribulation which wee flu!l meete with; and the afflictions do rather increafc tfun dimw nilh their happinefle.

We fee no fuch glprioas ihiagsf iiChriftianf.

Tfeefcarefpiriruall :hir^* a nd thcrtore no: eafily difcirao^Dsjng epecially inward; hskir s.wickc^

Okucl.

Anfy.

OhUU.

Aw

I

*!i

•a

II !»■■*

***m

238

i

I

Brief* Vireftions.

men will not acknowledge that glory which they fee; hecaufe ic reproveth them.

Againe 3 thefe priviledges are more inward feeling than outward appearance. Moreover there are many infirmities in che lives of profeflburs, which the world doe more gaze upon, than upon their Ghriftian convocation otherwife. Sat yet their lives be glorioui before God, zni (hining lights to them that can fee and difcernc, whileft they that carpe at them (hall be moftloachfome andabho-minable,

A Gainft the former Dircftions many thiog* may be obj -flted both by carnall cavclleis, and alto by weake Chriftians.

Of the Grft fort is, that there needeth no pther dire&ions to bee prefcribed be fides Gs?ds word. To ^hich there needeth no other an-fwer, biit that by the fame reafon all pf^chiogwercnccdlcffe;which if ic bee « i C (hould, is out of the

Scrip*

l » m

unto s godly Life.

Scriptures : but befides there is great need of/uch a Dire ft ion a* this to be penned, by rcafonofthe great weakenefles which are in Ghriftians, fome beingfbwofca-pacicie, others (hart of memorie^ othas very foone unfetled for want of good dirc&ion, areafha-med or unwilling to open their griefes, or elft have no fie man to flbew them unto: fo that befides other great harme which follow-eth the want of dire&ion,they are deprived of much communion with the Lord, and comfort that arifeth from it.

IT is further obje&ed, that no fuchdirc&ioacan bee obierved daily.

But if it wercimpofiibl.% why doth the Prophet call them blefled that follow fucha courft? Pfs.1.2. and affirme Co much of hirafelfc, Pfal. 1 19. 97.many fuch examples alio wee have amongft us. even in this age,who doe not make them-

feWes

-

-^

Briefe direcliws

M»

felvesftrangersunroGod, to hcare from him^or to fend vnco hinnnow and then; bat to watke with him daily,as all are commanded to doe. Nay, many there are,w ho of experience hare fonnd this way not on* ly poffible, but eafie to them, and fall of comforr^who ihoBldindeed be pacternes unto other?; for :he beft pra&ifcrs are the beft teachers: neither can any idle profefibur looke for fach eafe and comfort as -the painfull Chriftian that hath bcene taught by long experience,

IT will be &id,that howfoever it be poffible, yet it is very toyle-fome and inconvenient, depriving men of pleafure^ and hindering labour.

Bus the truth is,there js no plea-fare or comfort in the world, like unto it: thati^heientenceohhe faolyGboft, Pftlm. 119, 9p y 100. Pr.v.S. n. Neither is this meant offming God at times, but continually, even all the day long.

And

#

uttto a godly Life.

And vvh jfoerer bath any knowledge and experience by praftke, whac reward there is in ftrving God , doth j aftifie this to be true: for why alfo fhould fo many Chri-ftians part with all fjafaH pleafures which they might enpy wicho* thcrs, and fpeod fo much time and painei in Gods fervice* if it were foirkefome}

It is not indeed a pleafare to all* but to the upright in hcart,it is the onely delight, chough m this life. there be fome refiftance ° nay., it fcafoneth and fweatnech all earthly liberties,alfo making them truly plea fane to the godly, which to o -thers are mixed either with bur-tbenfome tedioufnefle, or hidden poyforu

Neither would this hinder labour and chnfr;for all godly thrift, Chriftian gaining; and lawfull pro-fpering in the world, doth arifc from hence; even when a man go-eth to the workes of his calling with a minde at peace with God,

com*

firiefc Dire8iv;j.

commending his affaires to Gods providence, aimes ac his glory, loofces ac hie promi(e,and fo waits I for a blefirng: and for want of this, many in great toile and paincs find no ftcceflenor bleflbg ofGodjand others that feemc to profper have their wealth but as Indus had his fopjami the Ijrdelites their quailes, to become their banc and poy fon.

Ji S caufelefle:alfo is their feare, *- who fiy,that the following of thistlircftioD would breaks ofFall fbciety and fcllowfhip arsoogft men. For this would breake off none but evill fdlowfhrp, fuch as it were to be wifbed were abandoned all focieties of Ohriftians; which ificfteraeftrange, it wiJl be oncly to fuch as the Apoftle Pettr fpcaketh of ih his firft Epiftle, 4.4.

BUc ic is fit to fctisfie the doubts which weake Ghriftians arc like to propound-As firft, how they may attaine

and

■ I M •

nntoAgedljLift.

*«

and kcepe this Cod rfe ?

For che anfwcr whereof, thus much:

i There muft bee an earned de-fire wrought by the confideration of the ncceffide of if.

2 There muft bee a ftrife againft untowardncfle and £hth.

3 Ail earthly afie&ions rauft be moderatcd^nd not clog us.

4 There mufti ifaih be expectation of fruit farer above the labour,

5 It will -begood at the firft that doubts which arifeb: imparted to others of experience; and chat che proceeding be marked, that wants may be £ipplied 3 and good things continaed.

This if wee doe,the nutter will notfeeme £> difficult and tedious unto us;r?eithsr are lawful! c illings any lecsumo this Chriftian courfe. For holy cxerci&s and Uwfuii bu- j (ine(Te,a heavenly mind and earthly dealing^may very well Hand together.

Some

*44

Briefc dirt&ionst&c.

SOmc arc alfo moved, with the \ erodes that they (hall mcete withallin the world.

Bat they needc not be troubled fa as to goc backe, but rather to ftt forward thereby, Vent. 8*.

The end of all this if, thatfuclr as have rectived the Gofpell, and that have not beene carefull thus daily and perpetually to .walke wichGod; if it was of ignorance, they muft not be difcouraged, but onely (hew that ignorance was the caufe, by amending now upon knowledge. If it wasofevillcon-fdence againft their knowledge, their fin is the greater, especially if they have fallen from the firft love:Therefore :ime it is,tbat they fhould returne and feeke peace with God^maimaining the fame by carefull watching over themfelves throughout the day, that they offend in nothing*

FI^IS.

:

Chriftian Letters

OF

M r . Paul Bayne.

Replenished with divers Correlations, Exhortations, and Direftions, tending

to promote the Honour ofGodlinefle.

Hereunto is added a fruitfull

Sermon for the Triaffof a

Chriflians Eftatt.

He br. 5.13.

Exhort one another daily ^ while it U called to dijfy left any of you he hardened through the deceitfulneffe of finne.

LONDON, Printed by E G. for /. N. and are

to be (old by Samuel Endcrby at his (hop in Popes-bead* Alley, at the figne of the Starre, 1637.

J

!

«=*-s^

•^•<—

<s£> <&» *&> <&* <&* <>5i <*ir> *&* «*^> <<jv «^> *^> *£*> c*j»> <$> cj>

THE RIHGT

WORSHIPFVLL,

and Chriftian Ladies,the

Lady Weld, and the

Lady Lennard:

Grace, and

Fcacc,

Ight Worfhip* full and worthy Ladies, if there bee a-ny one thing wherein I make fingular account of my friends love, it is, when by feme good meanes they are fetting mee forward in the wayes of fal-

A 2 vati-

f

MB

The Epiftk Dedicatory.

j

vation:andon the other fide., 1 cannot (b rejoyce in an* improvemetof my beft love and fervice co them, as when mutually I may bee a helper forward of their faith. I write not this, as favouring any ingratefull burying civil! and humane kindnefles in oblivk on,but as giving the preemi-j nence to theworkeof love,! which eipecia'ly is imployed in advancing that good part, which as our Saviour inri-mateth to Martha 3 Q\z\\ nor be taken awav from us. Let it not therefore I pray you(myi honored good Ladies)feeme ftrange 5 that in the defire of rhe beft good to your fouler I prefent to your view, and infcribe by particular Dedication to your LadifhipSjthi enfuing Bundle of Lettert

par

The Epifik Dedicatory.

partofthewerkesofa reverend Divine, who living, fhi-ned as a bright Scarre in the Church of God. For 1 am perfrvaded, with Gods blef-fing^vhich is all in all, that if you attentively reade this Booke, you fhall finde many fweet Motives to heavenly-mind dnefle, effV&uall confederations so qcalifie the bit-ternefie of lbrrow D which often befalleth us in this vale of Teares; andlafHy^nofmall attra&ive to draw up your mindes from thefe vanifhing delights below , to thofe hopes and joyes of an inheritance incorruptible, undefi-led 5 thatfadeth not away,re-ferved in Heaven for you. I will not enlarge my felfe, to fpeake in commendation of the Author of thefe Chriftian

A 3 Letters\

j

The Epiftle Vedtmory.

Letters^ who no marvell hee (peaketh tofeverall points fo gracioufly., who felt heavenly ftraines in his Meditations (b plentifully. This prefent Booke will(as his other Writings have done) fpeake for him J doubt not.ftfficiently, One part of which hath been tranfcribed while the Author li ved, and the Copie was not to bee had in Print, in my knowIedge,fuIl many a time^ yea, hundreds of times, or neerer a thoufand times, if fbme godly perfons have not mif-reckoned. Now, why I chnfe your Ladifhips , in whofe name to commend this Worke to the Church of God 5 though I might al-leadge other reafbns, yet for the prefent ht this fuffice, 1'hat.as you are Sifters in

na-

^w

" — ■> ■ '■

The Epijik Dedicatory,

nature, fo you are neerer Sifters in grace, and therefore well may bee joyned in one infeription, whom God hath linked in fo holy union.I will not by longer Preface hold your Worships from the Booke it felfe. Readeir,my refpe&ed good Ladies 5 and the Lord give you under-flanding in all things. Febr* 22. 1620.

Tout Ladifhipf) readie to all fervice in the Lord,

Ez. Ch.

.1

A 4

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*

&&&&&&&&&&&&$& «r • & & o e* «* & o o o £ o

CHRISTIAN

LETTERS: Containing Divine Inftra-

ftions,Ex hortatlons, and Coofblatioos.

Letter I. Dite8crj.

kM

f^Sggg^OoD Miftrcffc 5.

we muft not think ic ftrange, wben need is,to be made heaviewichmany sffli&ions /orchis hath ever beene the portion of Gods Children., who through many Tribuluions have entrcd in* to his Kingdome. Hee that will not let the fhew and livdefle PiftureofGodlineflegoCjWichout affiyln g aad overturning, how much more hach hce an aking Tooth at thjc Grace which is on-

A S fained?

I

w^

faincd? Wherefore bee net dit | maied, if Changes and Armies of Trials fhould fucceed each other; rather re joy ce, thatbyoccaGonof thefe things, you may fee your fclfecobcbuildedon that Rocke which none can prevaile againft, though it bee never fo afftyled. When the Windes blow, and Sformes fall., then wee may fee. what buildirgs have fure Foundations : then ihofe that are other-wife,cannot be hidden. Our whole care,v\ hen temptations follow u«, ftardahin this: Firft, wee rcuft judge aright of them, and the end for which Gcd doth frnd th^m : Secondly, wee nmft fecke vtife-domc and ftrergth, which may make us undcrgoe them, to Gods glory, and ourcorrforrs. A}! evils which befall us in (ouk,bodic and condition, fhey are med r cinahle forrowes fenc of God, that the foule holpen by them, as by bitter potions, might by renewed re* pen;aiiC€ more and mure purge it

felfe

QUtfclviS inaffliliiQns*

felfe of cbac true Soule-ficknefle^ that finne and corruption which dwdlethinit. If wee were as innocent as Job9 yetmuftwehura-b'eour felvts under the hand of God, whenhefendcthadverficies.. V Vherefore^ in all renewed occa-iL-nsof chiskinde, let us judge our felves 5 and ^row more vile in our owne eyes • that thus humbled under Gods mighrie hind p wee may further acd further receive his grace, for the cxaldng of us; Aud this is the end of God^why he at miny times briogeth many and divers advtriities.Thereafonis: this exercife of a broken fpiric may ftillbee renewed tffctfually in us: even as Phyficians , to bring away ficke matter more fully and fafely, are forced againe and againe to open the veine, u kifig away now fome bloud,no w ether fome, as the partie mtf btare; to doth God, not at once, but many times bring away- this corruption which dwelleth in us:

And

]

\

dfjHBiotts though biteer,

And as Phyficians now give one thing, now another, left naiure, ufed ftill to one , (hould doc bee moved 5 fo God doth (bmetimes in bodie, fomeiimes in minde, fometimesin our iftaredealewith us.hecaufe hce doth fee, that the longer wee arc ufed to this or that croife, the kffe it worketh with us. Bat left wee (hould bee fwal-lowed np of evils , wee meft jnyne witheare of humbling our (elves, that wifedome and ft*ength which may make us hopeful! and joyfull, even in the middeft of our affii<5Uor.$. The things that befall us, wee muft not looke at them by outward appearance, but wifely confider how they are changed in Chrift,who hath taken away the poyfon which would bee in the evils wee fuffer, and made them ferviceable for our good. As Children, through want of Wifedome, are troubled at Bug-beares; fo wee are much af-fraid of things which caanos hurt

us.

mmmmmm

ytt rphokfome.

,Wa

us. This wifedome, which doth make us truly to difcerne things asinChrifttheyare,dothmakeus comagious in bearing cf them, Ic is betcer with ihe body when it feedeth on bitter hearfcxs which breed good bloud, than when it feedeth on fweet meais, which ingendcr bitter vomits and mortal! fiefceefles, Agaioe,asall fwcet, without any tart intermeddled, is notfopkafing: To if in the tenor • four lives wee (hould not (omc-time know diftafement, our com-rns would when we enjoy them beroth'ngfb taftefull to us. Be. fides, witedeme will tell us that thcic thiogs come andgoe as the raine on cur cloaths, which in a ,whifcdriem up, and all is as before: fo when hca^intlfcis with us inthe evening, wee fcc joy rc-ai Hgeven before the morning often. Did wee not through falfc glafles tee thirgs otherwise than they are, they wouldoot caft 113 downefomuch as the doe. Wee

I

there-

5

+n% +m* f n | | r I a»

H ■* ».»»

MP

Chrifi cur ftrength

\

therefore wifely obferving how \ many wayes the grace of God our heavenly father doth change thefe things into our good, even as the art of the Apothecary doth make a poifonfull Viper into a whole -Come, Triacle, we muft choofe rather aflfli&ion than vanity. Now we want ftrength , wee muft being confeious of it., come to him, who maketh u* able to doe sH things through his ftrcrg r henirg of them, who ftrengtheneth his in the inner man to long fuff*-ranee with joyfulneflc, who hath faid, Sjch as looke to me, ftull renew ftrength. Our ftrength is to clafpeChrift, and hold to him as the perfon in whom is all our ftrength. TheCofiiesarea weake creature, but they diggc in the rocke, worke themfclves holds under the earch where they may beinftfety: we are fet to fchoole to them to karne of them, that whereas we are weake, we privy to it, would by faith worke our feives

in all afflictions.

\

felves inco that Rocke Chrift Je-fus,againft whom the gates of hell cannot prevaile. When the Apc-fiks had received bis fpiric of firength, they made a play of all their fufFerings and labours; even as in bodily things Wee fee men that have ftrength and courage, a? thefe porters and fuch, they will make a (port to bcare fueh burthens as a weake creature would tremble to kft ar. Want of this wifedomeand ftrength, wha> voy ces doe they draw from us? Even fuchasthek; Were ic anything, faith one,but this, I could hop- to receivcgood from i ; Were it a-ny thing but this, I could hope to beare ir. Whereas did wee put on this fptfticle of wifedome, wee fhould tee that there were nothing Co fit as this to doe us^ood^ which Go c'mftth toufe before other. Did wee in confcicncc of our imp tercy fteke to Chrift to mike us able, wee fhould not doubt but to fiade ftrcngih e-

noagh

I-

Cbriji ourflrengtk.

nough whereby tobeare that com-1 \ fortabtyj which wee thioke moft intolerable. Wherefore, as I know you fabjeft to (bme exerci-(cs,(bl wifliyou more and more communion with your Chrift, on whom reftcth the fpirit of Wile-dome and ftrength^ihat you may beare them,yea be more than conqueror inthenu

I doe defire to remember you with the firft of thofe whom God by his providence hath endeared to roe above others. Being not fit to continue long in writing, with- my hearty commendations and thanks for all your love, I commit you to God.

Yours in Chriflian affc&ion*

Faitl B4jm.

My

«MP

. »■ ■■» ■■

m ■ ■ ■

2. Hortatory.

MY Chriftian Friend, being much indebted uoto ycu, for the kindnefle I hive received from you, I thought good to let you fee that 1 dot not altogether forger, what I cannot fo fully as I would reqokc: wfc cannot fo diA charge this debt of love, but that we mud ft ill ftand indebted one to another. Now bethinking how I may bellow my felf for your good, I doe noc know any meane more fruitfull, than that of Chriftian exhortation, by which wee provoke each the other to love.Wher-fore give mec leave to ftir you up, but to labour for the prefent fruit ofyour affliftion forcpaffed,and to prepare your felfe againft future tryalsj if God fhouldbe pleated to prove your patience yet further in time to come. Wee (ee the earth then having endured the nipping ftorme8 of the Winrer feafon , it commcth to receive into herbo-fomc the beames of the Sunne

now

now more approached^the earth I (ay before fuitIefle,doth put forth and become fruitfull: thus wce^ chough in the winter of our temp-tation,whi!e the favour of GO D feemeth to have forfiken us, chough in this taking we finde it enough to doe to keepe life at the root, yet when now Gcd doth warme our hearts with the fcnfe of his love, which is better than life it felfe^ then we muft labour to put forth both bud and bloffome, yea to bee filled with the fruits of tighteoufheffir, which arc to the praife of God through Jefus Cbrift. I When the Devil! cannot longer hinder our deliverance out of any evill, yet he will labour to keepe us without underftanding hearts, that wee fliall not bee able to acknowledge God in that hee hath wrought for us: by which meane the fbuie is kept from being bettered by that it hath received. If with our hearts wee underftand not the loving kindneffc and faith-

fuIneflTe

fulutfle which God hath (hewed coward as, then cur love to him will not be increafed., for we love him, beaufe we finde him ro have loved us firft; our faith will not be ftrengthened, if wee have not obfcrved how crufty the Lord is to all that beleeve in him : for this growth we take in knowing God by his word and works 5 this doth make us grow in bcleeving on him according to thar,They who know thee ., will truft in thee. Wherefore this being an enter-prize of Satan, when hee cannot defeat us of good things, then to keepe us,if ir b? poflible/rora the fpiriiuall fruit of them, let us bee wifctofeeke untoGodwho hath (aid,! am he that teacheth thee to prcfit,that he would be pleafed to give us his fpirir,which may teach us to know what hee hath done for us. If this bee obtained, then the benefit will follow, both of our trials and deliverance: Oar finncfhallbe more purged out of

us,

us, our graces (hall bee more ftrengchened, yea they fhall bee morea&iveandftirringm us, making us more ready to, atid plentiful! in every good word and work rban beforctimes w?e havebeene. Theleare the chiefe ends for which God fendcth all our vifications : as the end of bi'tcr potions is to purge forth ficke matter from the body 5 (b all our griefs tent of God, are medicinabk bitteroeflfe to deanfc our foules. Now as tb« faculties are ftrengthened in us when we are rid of fach ficke ha-moursas did fo offend them, (b all the graces are the more confirmed by how much finne is more removed. In the third place, a bodie, when ficknes doth not weaken the faculties of ir, is full of motion, found bodies love to bee ftirring, especially ifcoldneffe doe not be-numme the members and make them unfit for motion. Thus the foule, when God hath fcattered the cares a-nd lufts which did op-

prefie

andfoftrengthens Grace*

13

prefle it, and by his love fted into ic, diflblred that frozen coldnefl? which is an eneaay to heavenly aftion, then ic doth in 1o*q and zealetohis glory beftirre it lelfe diligently, both in the duties of the gcnerall calling of Chrifti-ans,and the particular callings in which wearefci refp^ft ofour outward condition, Thefc being the fruits which fhould follow affli-6tion, give diligence to find them in you more and more : ic is the feale of that elcftion and calling by Gcd, according to the purpofe of life, when you feele that things vvorke thus together for your good. Every bafemetall maybe patintothe tire, but that which abideth ia it and commeth forth more rt fined by k,thac is precious and of much account. Every man may bee put into the furnace of aflfliftion,but if wee endure cha-ftifements and come forth more and more purged by meanes of them, then it is a fure fignc we are

veflels

Prtparalion for evilltimet

.«-*-

vtflel* of Silver, and vctfels of Gold, ordained ofGodco glory everlafting.

Now I come to tbat fecond taske, I did undertake of provoking you to prepare againft times to come. Though great fickneflcs breed fometime long health, yet it is true on the other fide, that no winde but may blow raine when God is fo pleafed , no ftate fo calme which may notfoone turne tempeftuous 3 ftiould not the Lord bee more gracious. The Divell, when now God hath made us get the upper hand of fbme grievous temptation, doth lie in ambufh, and bend all his forces to draw us into pride, at leaft into fecurity and preemption touching things which may hereafter befall. Whcr-fore feeke to God to make you ready for every thing wherewith he (hall try you. In peace we prepare for warre: wearing a weapon docb not make a man the fooncr let on, nay it preventeth this

danger

juvjjcs profitable*

danger (bmetimes, and alwayes makes a man ready ce defend him-fclfc when he is affailed. God doth fee us to learne of the Ant this point of Wifdome:that fm all creature gatherech and hoordethfood in Summer, which may befuffici-ent in winter feafbn : and when we have that providence in Summer to make proviiion of Hay and fodder for our beafts againft their need^ how fliould we be worthy rebuke, if wee fliould not now in peace ftoreupin our hearts thofe things which may bee ufefull and hclpfulltousintimeof our trouble? Now this praftife ftandeth in three things chiefely. Firft Jn gee ting a watchful (agacity,by which our (boles doe difcerne aforehand what kind of events and exerciies they are fubjeft unto in this vale of ceares. Secondly,in learning by due confiderations, to know how wanting we are in wifedomc,how weake in regard of tfnc ftrength which maketh us able to ftand

when

Faith in Cbrift>tbe

when wee are tryed. Thirdly 3 In flying to God by faith, holding him, as who hath beene, i$, and mcft be, the rocke of our fa! virion : looking to Chrift the author andfiniflKrofou'faich, who hath received thiscommandemeot from his father, that he would not only call us and briogusinto the ftate of grace , but fccepe us in it and raifeusupattheLftday: who is a great Saviour > keeping his (as Trf#/faith)fromevery evillwork, i to his heavenly kingdome. Now when by faith wee thus hang oo God our Siviour, then we? are, as it wercio aftroDgTower,wher. in the gates of hell (hall not b?e able to hurt us, much tefle to pre-vaile againft us, God doth fee us to fchoole to the Conies, that of them we might learne this leflon: they are a weak^timorous creature, yet they have this wifedome to worke themfelves holes in the earth, burrowes to which they may reiuruc for (h Jccrjand though

^cy I

'

Reck^of our Salvttio*<

l *7

they goeoutfometimes, yet they dill returns ever and anon unto their holds. Oh, (b rauft wee, confcious of our weaknefle, by faith worke oar felves into the Rocke Chrift lefts* and though (bmetime wee are abroad, as it were, in many other matters, yet wee muft ftill returne and renew our beltcfe towards hire, I may not profecute theft things. The Lord teach you by his Spirit fb to acquaint your fclfc with him, that you may with much more confidence and boldnefle refortto him in all your ntceflities. Moreover, I have fent you a Soltloqitie y which I did longfince pen, that ic might bee an Introduction, leading by the hand a wcll-difpofed Chriftian to take up a forme of wcrds between God and his foule for the increafc of his dcvotion.Thus with my hearts deftre to Gcd for you, I take my leave.

B

>•■*

Temf fattens rvorke fir good

3. Confblatory.

The God ofconfolation andcompaf-fion be withyoH) my good and loving Sifttr , and rcmaine with jot* for ever.

I Know not whether I ftiould write of gratulation unto you, and thanksgiving unto God for your deliverance, or clfc of fbme comfort again ft your troubles, if you yet rcmainc in them: Confi-dcring the Lords ordinary dealing, if you be not already delivered, your deliverance cannot bee farreoff. But forafmuch as the wayes of God with his children are diver?, w hofe fteps wee can no more find out, than know the way in the aire where the bird hath flowne; I know not whether hee will hold you in the Schoole of your grievous temptations. Well, lam affured that the iflue (hall bee good, aflured alio that the length and grievoufhefle of them, (hall Accordingly addc unto the weight

and

-~*^

■>! *

and fhining brightncire of the Crowne which in Chrift lefts is prepared for you: affiired finally chat the comfort which thofe which are 5 or (hall be cemp:ed,wi)l bee much the ftrongerand deeper, as they (hall underftand chat you which have beene fo long and fo fharply exercifed, were atthclaft io gracioufly delivered. Be therefore of !',ood comfort (my good Sifter) although the Lord plunge you into the Ssa, yet he will goe downe with you thither to keepe j you, tint you (hall not bee drowned : although you pafle thorow chefire 3 you (hall not beeconfu-tr.eJ,beciufe he is with you: although hec leadc you from one Seatoacother 3 yectheLord which commands both the teas and the fire ( as all other creatures) frill, for his dearc Sonnes fake, worke that fire nor water fhall not onely noc hurt you, but profit you in fining you more and more from the droffc of finne, and wafhing B 2 yo i

>

Temptations cannot hurt. \

you from the common filth of the remnants of finnc which arc in you. What doe Ifay that he will be with you in fire and water ? Ic is bat a fmall thing in his eyes. If you were brought to the gates 9f hell; If hell gates had (hue her mouth upon you, yec there his hand will be with you, and from thence his arme will deliver you. Yea, if hell had fwallowed you up into her bowels, yet it muft in deipite of it render you up againe: Her ftomackc cannot long hold you, no more than the great moa-ftrous Whale could brooke \lo*4s 3 which if hee had light upon the wicked Mariners, hee would have devoured and digefted twenty of them in lefle (pace. And this is indeed the promife of our Saviour, tMatth. 6. That hell gates fliall not prevaile againft you. They (hall fight againft you, but fliall not prevaile. Whereof I wrote unto you, for that our fiiend Mafter C. wrote unto rae,

that

7)ifiruji & refnfall of comfort a fin.

21

that fince my laft letters you have bcene terribly fhaken by a forcible Tempeft which the Enemie hath ftirred op againft you, wher-vvkh hee had railed fuch a dufi in your eyes, that ycu had in your judgement loft all fight of the grace and goodnefle of God in lefts Chrift. Butbcnotdifimi-ed > my Sifter, for my part I am in good hope that even as a little before day-breake the darknefie is greateft: fo thefe grand Piece? which hee kcepcih in ftore until] the cafe be defperate, be, with the clappesthey give, and mifts they fend forth, meffer gers of your de-liverance, which is before ihe doore. The truth is, that as to be-leeveGod to be your merciful! Father, is a precious thing before God, (b to doubt of his goodnrffc towards ns,is a great finnc. When further wee refufe the-comforts and admonitions that bee offered out of his Word, the finnc is yet increafed. If blasphemous

B 5 words

-~~i

Cjods mercy in Cbrifi infinite,

[

words efcape us, yet fiune ii made one ftaire higher. If your finnes for the height of them, reach the very hcavcns,3nd for their breadth fprcad themfelves from South to North, and their length from EafttoWeft: yet the rrerciei of the Lord our God in lefus Chrift ovcr-r'ach them every way. For u pon us alljthat are thus over f aken by Satan, ic is alfo verified, which the Apoftle faith; chat where finne doth abound 3 there grace doth more than abound. Thcfe large promifes hath the Lord made us to our everhfting comfort, which he hath fct out by the meafure of the obedience and fuflL-rings of hisdeare Sonne lefus Chrifr, the height, and breadth, and length whereof (as you know) is infinite,, not onely, becaufe hee was in fuch anguifti of minde for us, that through griefe hee fweat(which was never heard ofydropsof bloud which came from him, and cryed, My God, my God, why haft thou

for.

a gnat Comfort to great fivners.

forfiken me? but alfofor that his obedience is the obedience of the eternall God, and for that his fuf-ferings are not onely the fuffe-ringsofa mortal! man^ but of the immortallGod;, which as the A-poftlefmb, with (bedding of his owre bloud redeemed us: not that the Go ihead could (offer the fheddingof bloud^but becaufe of thcunfpestkablc unity of the two Natures, bound together in one perfonj that which was done to Chrifttheman, i% toourfinguhr eomfort, laid to bee done of the etcmallGodr

Now for the keeping of our pare, which we have in the obedience and fufferings of our Saviour Chrift,you muftjrurn your ek s frcm your frtfr 9 at;d from your owne workes,unto the EIe6Vion and calling c f God. For as the Lord faveth u$ 3 not becaufe of our good workes, bee they never Co mar.y: fb hee will not condemne us his Children , becaufe of our

evill

23

*4

^r— i .fc M

TLUUion the ground of Gods love.

cvill works,be they never (b great. Hereunto the Lord callcth us by the Prophet Efaj, chap # 45. where dealing with the rebellious Israelites, he faith, for Hrael his cho-fen fake, and becaufe they were called by his name, be would con-firme them, and doc them good: becauiefaith he, I loved thee, and becaufc thou were precious ia mine eyes, and becaufc I cfleemed thee, I will doc this and this for thee: as if he would fay ,although thou lovedft not raee, nor eftec-medft not me* As for the Lords calling towards you whereby (as by a ladder)you may climb fafely unto the couniell of Gcd co know your EIeftion,and what his fecrcc decree of you was before the world was made, I referre you to that which I wrote to you before; the markes are many and cercaine in you, you ncede not, I wis, to hare had Co many and long temptations: to have thrown you headlong into cvcrlafting defpaire, if

you

;=-=

Grate voorkfith not aUkfi alw^ju m I 25

you had not belonged to the Lord. For as the Children of God are

conquerors over many temptations, (o one onely temptation (and chat a ftiort one) is able to finke the ftoutcft among the Reprobates into the bottomlefle pit of hell. Neither rouft you think that the grace of God worketh al waies alike in his Children. When you walke in the fields at winter, you fee not onely no good fruity but not fo much as a leafe on the Trcesj inibme alfbrhe very trunk or ftocke appeareth to be dcad,yet is the fappe hidden in the root 3 which in due time will ftiewthat the tree was never dead.Howbeit, I need not lead you into the fields, you have an example at home within yourdoores: For, when yom fire is raked up, there appeareth oftentimes a fert of cold and deadafhes, when there are underneath certaine fparkes, ] of which you may afterward mkkeafirct And fuchmheefute

B5 of

mmmm

1

26

Cods Children brought to great

of the Children of God ,. when through thefinncs they doe commit, and wherein oftentimes they flecpea great while, they appeare unto men as forfaken of God, and remcdileffe. How much more ought you to bee of good comfort, in whom the Lord hath fet fuch notes of your etcrnall falvation in Jefus Chrift, that all the ftnoke which the enemy hath caft out, cannot take away the fight of them from us, or once fo much as bring us in doubt of it > I grant you your (elves think other-wife • but as in ficke pcrfonswee fteitcommethtopaffe, that they thinke there is no hope of life y when the Phyfician and fianders by fee certaine acid undoubted to* kens of health: So is ic oftentimes in theft fpirituall fickaelks. You fee David through the affliftions which the Lord ftnt upon him, J wreftled oftentimes with desperation, was oft brought into! doubt of; his falvation 3 as ypu |

**ay 1

doubts of tbtir falvttion.

may reade in the 42.43.77.and 88. TjW/Bf/.Whcreyou (hall perceive that he conceived of God,as of one in extreme anger and rage with him^as of one that had forgotten him,and had taken his mercy from him. There are al(b (I grant) voy-cesof hope mingled with them, tecaufe in one and the felfe-fame Pfalme, hee changeth the whole courfe of hisMeditationSjhowhe floated, now up, now downe,now funke,as it were, in thencathcr-moft hell, now appearing and (hewing his head above the waters againe. The Son of God himfelfe through extreme anguifti was (as I (aid) brought to aske of God why he had forfaken him I If the force of Temptations could bring him which had no finne of his owne, and was the onely beloved of God, and which had received thefpirit of fortitude above mea-fare, to fuch a hard exigent and terrible conflift, we ought not ta raaryelLif the Children of God,

which

«

which have fionc dwelling in their mortall bodies, which are not beloved for themfelvcs, but for his fake alone, and which have received butafetvdroppesof the Spirit (whereof he had the whole Sea) bee fometimes plunged over head and eares. And wherefore did onr Saviour overcome that fearefull conflift of temptation^ but that it ffcould be our medicine when wee arc overcome of ic ? Wherefore in this moft great cc n~ fli&did he not only reraine faith in his heart, but in calling him his Lord, proftffed it before men wiih his mouthy but that it fhould be our remedie, when wenotone-lyfeeleno faith inwardly in our hearr^but deny alfb outwardly be* fore, men with our mouth, ttm we have any hope in him ? Therefore our Saviour Chrift in S. John placeth not our comfort in that we our felves have overcome, but biddeth his Difciples bee of good €heare a becaufc hechad overcome

the

againft temptations*

the World; that is to fay, all contrary power to the will of God. Therefore alfo S. Iohn in his firft Epiftle fikh,That our Faith is that whereby we overcome theWorld: not onely, becaufe through Faith we vanquifh the Temptation^ but efpecially,becaufe we by it 5 as by a Hand, apprehend the righteouf-nefle and viftory of Chrift, as a fi-tisfa&ionofthat wherein we have plaicd the cowards. Asforintcm-perate /peeches (if any were) it is (b to be confidercd,that they were notfpoken (as theyfty) in cold bloud,and of a malicious purpofe, but in a paffion, and of a troubled and a broylcd minde, which the encmie, when hee hath you upon the wracke, wringeth out of you. And not onlyftch fpeeches^but even fome kinde of Blafphemie againft the Sonne of God^ the Son of God himfclfe forgiveth. Effe 5 I pray yoi^what (hould become of the holy man/^which opened his mouth fo wide of God; all which

curies.

29

J

ao Cr^/ dedreft children impatient.

curfts, fent out agiinft rhe creatures of God, returned upon the Creator bimfdfe? And although in the beginning he opened his mout h againft the Lord, as it were,aflope andindire&lyofinjuftice, as may appeare both by his difcourfef, & by the Lords owne anfwer, which hec maketh in the end. Of the which man 3 notwithftanding all this, note (I befeech you ) what S. lames faithjCbap. 5, Tort have heard (faith he) of the patient man Job. Here you fee that heecalleth him fo, notwithftanding all his frowardneffe againft his friends, (which were good men,aad came of good will, although they were not in every point fo well advifed) notwithftanding all his impatience againft God inwardly, notwithftanding all his accusations and curfes open!y,which proceeded of impatience. Ifyouaskchowthefe can (land togetherjthey Sand well: forafmuch as the Lord forgiving and covering hi* impatience in

1&*

Cbriftmzkj eve* between God & us ; 31

i

Jefu$Ghrift,reckoneth with him as if he had fpunnc (fb to fpeake) an even thred of his patience all the time of his Tcmptation>wher -as notwithftanding hec made fo many knots, and brake his thred fo often. Even fo (good SifterJ will he deale wch you : for par* dening all your incQnfiderate fpeeches,he will make his account with ycuforJefusChrifts fake, as if you had prayed to him,and pra> fed his Name, at the dayes of your remptation* If (brne one which had borne you good will, and fpo-ken much good of you, deceived by cvill company, (hotild happen afterward to revile you; I would askc you this Q^eiiion , Whe-rhery if fuch a one were forrow^ full for hisfaulr, you would forgive him or no ? When you examine your ownConfcicnce herdiij I dareanfwer for you, you would not refufe him, nor tumc your face from him. Shall you, which havcj in companion, but afparkc ! of

.. I

32

I

J14m merciful!, Cjodmuch more.

-+*

oflove,(hcwthismercie; and not the Lord,who is nothing elf e but a fire of Charitie towards them that cry him mercie,and as the Apoftle Saint John faith j Charitie ic fclfe ? Shall your fpark confirme the forfeit againft you, and (hall not the bone fire of the love of God in lefts Chriftj dry and licke up yours ? Shall the cooling and refrefhtng waters of roercie and companion bee foand in a little Channel], and the Fountaine &Head-fpring from whence itcomraetb,be dry ? Considering , that in this relpeft, the Lords cogitations are as farre different from ours, as Heaven from the Earth, And the truth is, that the Lordhath therefore taught us to pray 5 Forgive m our trefpijfei,as m forgive them that trefpajfe agamji m ; to this endjthat when wc feelc our bowels of coropaffion opened to thoft which offend againft us, We mighttake that as a fare pledge and undoubted token of the for-, givcaeffe of all our finnes^ how

_ g«|

Chriftian love edifies.

great fbever they be.Therefore to make an end where I bfgan, Beef good comfortjdeare Sifter,you arc the Lords,you have coft the Sonne of God too dearea price,, to bee a caft-away.

4. Monitory.

LOving Coufin, ic is my defirc, while our lives are joyntly continued in this flefh, to teftifie my Chriftian love to you in fiich dacics as tend to build you up in your holy Faich : it is a common debt, but yet fuchas we owe one another fo much more abundantly, by how much we are linked more n rerdy. I have thought fomctime, tint I would not bee fo backward tothisbufineffc; but then ic hath come unto my minde, that you are well able to draw on others. A-gaine, becaufe I know not the things which in yourconfl&ing courfemoftoppofeyou, whether wants of Graces, or prcfence of evill Lawes within us ; becaufe I knew not theft particulars, I (aid

with

Hunger after Grace the figne of

with my felfe , I (hall but fhoot without a marke> and fit a fhoo to 3 foot I know not. To what pur-pofe fhall I wrire> Indeed, wee cannot prefcribe fo pertinently, who know not the cftate exaftly; and we prevent our felves in tbefe fruits of Iove 5 who make norelati-on,and pcrfonall rcporr,nei:her in letter^ nor by word of mouth 3 which might helpethcfe that mi-nifter to us:but halfe a Cake 5 is better than no bread; and a general!, fafe, and profitable praftife muft not be negle&edjbecaufe we fee a morefruhfull ccurftj which wee cannot aitaine.To come then once againe unto you in general], till I (hall know fome specialties, to which I might fpeak morefor your advant3ge;therc is good hopr 3 that body wil! doe well, which hath the ftomack right affe&cd :Hunger is a figne of healch; fo that foule which hungercth and thirfteth after righteouftes, there is no feare, but it (hallbee welUiking, and

profper.

a heahhfullfiule. -Motives to it.

55

^w

profper # I will therefore cndcvour to give a (purre toyour/pirituall [appetite, that you may come, by meanesof ir,tobe filled with the fulneffc of God,with the replenishment of his grace. Now as in the body,when the ftomack feeleth the empuacfie& (licking of other parts whofenourifhment is waftedjthen it furrhcr craveth: fo, when the foule doth feele how errptie it feJf is of grace, then the appetite of it is edged.Wherfore think with me, how wanting you are in theft points following, that fo you may bee (harper fet upon thofe graces wherofyou feel your (elf fo empty. Firft confidcr,how farre you are (hort of glorifying God as you ought: We (hould fan&ifie him in our hearts,words, and works, upon all occafions,& it (hould grieve us to Hre him difhonoured. Wee (hould doall things in him, and for him:In hira,thatis,having his war. rant; which we have,when by ftith we know that it is welKpleafing

to

How vpe ought to glorifie

i

co him, we (hould doe this,or that: yea, havingaflurance of his gracious pretence with us, to enable us roall fuch workes, in which wee know it is his will that wc (hould walke. We (hould, Ifay,doe all things for him, by making his honour the mark we (hoot at, in every thing. No w,how little doe our heairs thinke upon him, admire him,py that wc know him,afcribe unto bimWifdorac/rrutkMercy, Power,in his daily works he wor-keth for 119, while wee are pafling J thorow the barren Wiiderneffe of this prefent World, unto the Reft I which he hath prepared ? It (hould not be thus,Coufin. If we fee any man that doth any thing more wifely, that doth (hew a faithfull parr,or a merciful! office, we think highly of it,and give it within our (elves the due confederation: How much more ought wee to rhinke honourably of God, In the daily works he (hewech> What a Power I is tha^ which keeper h us to fal va-

tion,

Gods Wifedomt AndPower.

tioo,who have Co little ftrengtb, and leffewi/cdome, whereby wee might ftand in feare of our fpirl* tuall enemies and dangers? What a Power,thatdoth make the world, and the Tcntations of it, dead things unto us; which are fo mSgh-tie, that the moft are taken prifo-oersbythetn.andwefhouldlieas Captive Thrals before this or that creature/if God fhould not fubdue them, and hold them under us ? What Power is that, which killetb finfolILuftinus- athingofitfelfe (bftirringandmightie, andinfati-ableinthecourfe ofh?FinalIy 5 that upholdeththe life of grace in us? To fee a fire buraingon the Sea, and to keep in fire on the Waters, werea powerfull fatt: but to keep the life of grace ia a ibule which is dead in fins and trefpaffeg, isforre greater. What Wifdome doth he daily fhew-,in making al the things which befall us, ferve for fbme good end ? in tempering our eftateSjfo that we are neither oat of

meafure

37

«*«•

Gods Truth, ConftjKCy, and

I

meafure opprcfledwith grievances, noryetirumored over-much with the lufhie fwcetnefle of this prefent Wof ld:That doth by little & little lead us forward co perfe&ion,yea, and to Offerings, accord'ng as hec keth we are preparfd by nis grace, and made capable of thtm?For his Truth and Confta:cie, ! ^e doth re-ftiSeic abundantly : for wee are every day to fcekt: co him; yet hee ftikth not, though wee iyeupon him, a fuse friend. Againe, how many advantages doe we gire hioi againft us? How doe \vc 0 by our Co Iicrk profiting and mending what

J wekaowamiffe 3 provokehim?Buc he ftickech ftill faft to u$,ardall his wayes arefoll of mercy: hee leech how weake wee are, and doth fo fhieldus with his favour, that out of pitie he will not let the Windc blow upon ns. When we catch our daily fals, hee fends torus by his Spirit,and makethal whole again. When ftrength beginnethtofaile, hee,in pitie, putteth under,and re.

neweth

\

Mercy to bis Children.

39

newcth oar ftrengch. When wee areheavie, and poure out oar hearts co him^ telling him how it is with us,hce doth make us feelc his peace and confblation. When he feeth that evill things would grow opon us, he doth Cnd feme-thing or other, which may brwake theNeftof foch matter, and prevent the mifchiefe. Wee finally, which have (bales that are al fores 3 fee his mercie even in this $ that he vouchfafeth ro handle our leprous fyirits,, and hy renewing our repentant fcnlc of miferie^ and our Faith towards his falvation in Chrift J dothhy(as it w<?re) everyday a newPlaifter upon them. Now then, not to obferve and profecuce wich due honour, fach Power, wifedome, Truth; Mercie is a defeat to bee lamented. Wee take ic for a token of an ill mindc, when one will not give to men of parts, that which is their due. What mindes have we, who give God no more in our hearts,

who

•~^

We tnuft prochime Gods Gle'ry

T

—_•«

who is (b to bee advanced in thefc and fach like re(petts as I have named? And this not acknowledged of him, in the daily experiences which we have of him theft waies doth make us as much to feekcj when trouble commetb, as if wee had never beene acquainted with him. Whereas 3 did wee acquaint lour hearts with him in thefe his wayes,we fhould finde it as eafie to reft on him,inany triall and neceffi-tie, as men doe one with another : they preiume, (uch an one wil not be wanting to them 3 who(e truftie kindacfle they have bad ful proofe of,as which never failed them. In the £cond phce, as our hearts fhould with b:feeming afRftion inwardly honour, fo our tongues fliould tell of himj making known fuch things as we know of him: to fmother thefe things, is his dif-honour.Thoicthat belong to great perfonages, they delight to tell of the valour ,policie,bountie of their Lords:yea 3 wc will do one another

this

in oust Wirls and ASHons.

———

this crcdit,to tell what more mark-able parts we cfpy eachfri other. Why fhouldour God fee forth,and not have a word lent him this way? Finally,* hatfoever W e doc,

wee are to fee his leave and pre. fence with us, and to intend his glory in it. We arc not our owne mcojbut the Lords fervants,bought with a price. Now wejaftly deem it irreverence in thofe that live under government, if they prefirae to doe any thing; much more, if tbeyrunacourie upon their owne heads, not caring to take us with them, and know our pleasure. A-gaine,men doe iooke, that fuch as chcy keepe,fhould doc them hone* ftie,*nd be for their credit: And we fee the Retainers of Noblemen fo add'&ed this way, that they run themfclves into Books, and ont of faire PatrifDonks,and all to raain-taine a Gallancie, which they (though falfly) thinke much making for their Lords glory .Now if Wc i-y thefc together, we (hal find,

C tfot

4i

\

+ m

-~m

J

42 Wt do not boner tbtLord as wc ought.

m i » r ■■ . ■ ■■ i— • m> 1 1 i

that we in thcfe wayes have much been wanting to our dutie. How little do we fee and pofleffe our hearts with the referent and affectionate observing of that we daily receive from God, and Co of chat we find to bee in him towards us > Oar hearts lie afleep this way. Little doe wee joy to bee telling others,and letting forth our Lords honour unto therryhatGod might be glorified, and they thus provoked to feeke the fame fervice with usrand who doth feele this dutiful dependance towards God, which makes him looke up to the Lord, that hte would witnefle to his (bule, by his own holy Spirit, that his wayes hee takes in hand are pleafing to him^that he will be our fufficienciein them?Alas,we begin our courfcs according co cuftome, and thinke no more of this^than as if we were not tied to fach homage. We are as if we had pnrcha&d the Lordfhip of our felve9, and had in oar own hands the power of oQr \ ■ _ . _. 1 wayes,!

*"*^*»^ *»-^w— • m

1^— — — — —

Oht Failings drive us to Cbrift.

->—

43 j

wayes. Now theo, if you difcerne how you have failed in this great Comimndemcn^offeeking to glo-rifie your God-and if your trying yoqrftrcngchs, in labouring the fpirituall Obedience which tbefe points decipher unto us 3 finde your uflfiifficicncie tbis way; then you (hall find the emptineffe of Righ-teoufneflf:, which (hall helpe you fomewhac the more to claipe Chrift, your Righteoufiicfle,, that in him you may fee your forgive-nefle; and Chriftyour Santtifkr, that he would doe that hee hath , promifed you, even put his Spirit in you, and make you keepe thefe Commandements more and more, in thefe Branches above-named. And if the Lord (hall give any four to your Dsvocion^any encreafe to your Repentance and Faith,by this meanes., I ihall haye caufe to re-) jyce with you. I thpught to have thus gone over f. me other H ads, to have helped you to ice your want of Faith 9 and rejoycing in

C 2 God,

Wearhsejfc in *ur vuytt&c. I

God, and (b to have couched thofe feares of future events, and poffek fing your peace, and thatuncom-fortablenefle which doth hang, in pa (Ting our t ime^abou t os.But read this other Letter I iend you, again and againe; and for the la ft, know that the Lord doth but hide from us, and let us feele wearinrfle in going on, that Co he might make us more depend upon him, and fceke to him, to fhine upon our wayes, and to carry us on in them, when we feele ourinabilicy in our (elves. ButfheLord,I hope, will enable me at fbme other time to performe foraeduty to you this way. i let this beginning come to you,which lay fo long written by mee. You rauft not thinke much I write no oftner; for fincc my comming

| home,I have had neccflity to write very many wales. I thanke you for

all your lovc^ and wifliingyou the fweet lovfe of our God fhed into

your heart, I take ray leave this'

fixth o£D$cember.

5 • VmUory.

the tffcll ofomjhmcs, to bumble us.

^^ p ^^ ___^_j _. « »■ ■ — — *

5. DircBerjh

LOving Friend, wheras in your Lettersyoucomphine of tedious wearifomenefle^which in paC fivg the day, doth «rc-while cloze with us, of which we fpakea litde tooether.The truth h 5 thoughGod doth fomtimes, only to humble us 3 Ietfuch a wearifome vanity follow uSjthat hence wee might confider, what our fianc agaioft God hath done: how-to wk,it hath thruft us I out of Paradife, to a laborious and 1 irkefome condition of life- that thus w*e might be quickned, to begin ChriiltbatblcfTiog^which doth mitigate thofcevi!s:Though againcit fometimedoth only pur-file uSj becaufe of performing our duties of devotion with toomuch overture; for this maketh God loath us :fo thar we find finall ca fc 3 till wee rccurncagaine,and fhake our fel ves up better. Yec the common root of this gricfc 3 above named, is the want of confcionable 1 dependance upon God for his blef. I C % fing,

I

4$ j Wt arc f rone te jetfc-JMfficiency:

■^-^

fing,and ftrcngth to carry us on a 1 i the day long. Doc you feelc,wheo you rife,(uch a fenfe of your ownf weakneflfe, as maketh your hear-to looke to God,1 hat he wou Id be your ftrength and your cotafori throughout the whole day ? Ala% wegoe or>, as it there did need no fuch matter. The Divell told our firft Parents, they ftiould bee like gods: and though it is falfe,in regard of any blcffed conformities yet it is too true,in regard of fitiful] prefumption, with which\vcare fecretly poyfoncd. For we doe naturally live 3 and hold on ourcour-fes , as if wee were gods within our felves, not needing to looke higher for comfort orflrength, in which wee might proceed. Now this maketh our God, when wee feele pwtrfnUy (b little need of him, to let wearineflc and uncom-forrablenefle overtake us, which might make us come to new reckonings within our (elves, and more affeftionately to fecke unto him,

rvee ought toVtay AgAinjiit.

>—^—ii ni »— ■ ■ ————»«————^

him,that he would be with us, and carry us on, a d refresh us. Now if you difcernCj that there is in you futha fecret Sclfe-fiifficiencie, and that yoor fpirit awakencth not with fueh poverty in ir, which maketh you looke up to God, with confeience of your infirmi* tic, and confeffe,, that if he be not your ftrength and comfort, you cannot pafleon^ hourc over,with-out wearifbmeheavinefle :if you ifiude that this is lurking 5 then you rauft tume you to God, and wrcftleagamft it, faying*. I need not mufe much at this I finde: howflhould Ibut know fainting anddifcomfort in going on, who amfoaffc&sd, as if I would goc alone s and had not need of thy belpe^O Lord, at all times, ar.d in every thing,with me ? How (houl-deft not thou, that fmgleft out all pride, as the finnethou wile re-lift y bee much incenftd at this hidden Selfe-lufficicncie, which . doth pull thee out of thy Throne, \ C4 mi-

—!

1

^8 j 'Prajfir agtivjl Stlfc-confidvice.

makingthee no God to us, while re feck no need of thee- but are readie to goe on, as able enough within our felvcs to walke on in our wayes ? Wee farther confefle, that though we fee the indignitie of this behaviour, yet the frame of our hearts is fb eut of order, that of our felvcs wee have no power to amend it: far ars by nature wee are fallen from faith on thee, fb wee arc filled with Selfc-cofidencejwhich makes us(t hough we know it not) reft in our owne ftrength. Now then, what fhall we doe,but look to thee, that thou wouldeft make us (b poore in Spirit, that we may with foch feeling tod lowlinefle depend upon thee, for all our ftrength and comfort; that thou (who (hewett grace to the humble ones ) mayeft delight to nynifter them both abundantly unto us, that wee may walke up-right, firong, and chearefull in thy ftrength > O Lord, weaske it the bolderjfor thou haft proraifed^that

thou

grayer againji Stlfc-co*fidence.

thou wilt circuincife our Selfc*con-fidenc hearts, (o chat we fliall have no truft in the fle£h>bat have al our rcjoycing in thee. O Lord cell us, we beftech thee, make our hearts heare ic, that thou who arc not wearie, nor mayeft nocfainr, wilfi be onr ftrong Armc every morningr (ay to us, that thou arc our Gedy who wik leade us to death: What joy can we have to fee a foot forward any way,ifthou doeft not kt us fee that thou arc wich us? Our hearts thinkc what thy fervant fpoke: if wee may not have thee in thy Word, teftifying thy presence tvich us (for thy Word is out cloudie Pillar) it wert better fo* us never to move further, than to goe on ; not having thee with us* Following God with thefcthingf, youfhalJfiudcit notinvaine. Finally, this exercifc of bewayling our want in forac one thiog r doth rnuke us fee what need wee have,, that Chnlt fliould be made o( God our righteoufheffe^nd doihrnake

C 5 ui ]

49

*m

(W

50

We tnuft fbcw f§rtb Gods Gracu

1

us come feelingly to fee the tor-givenefle of all our finnea,through him our great G^d and Saviour, who hath wa(hed us with his bloud. I will leave off, though abruptly: my Letter groweth in my hand, and if 1 fhould goe on/it would be more than ycur handful. The Lord Jefus, who is the author and fii flier of all his graces ihus,perft& you andallhischo-fen more and more, that in this life we may fee the joyes ofholinefle..

6. Monmrj.

CHriftian Friends,, Forafmnch as it is ourdutie, who have bin undc r Gods hand,ro teach t ho/e that are under rhe fime; and feeing we that have rafted grace, are effectually to fing the mercies of God rewards others: in this regard, my Letters (hall open thefe two things untoycufo farre as J am able> if von arc alive ro receive k. I know not whether I ftallj write you another 5 if nor, it (hall

returne

m ■ _ ■■ " '

imm

■ i » »

The Sptntjtot afflifttd vporkj repent,

rcrurnc into my bofbene, that Ss written unto you, The end of thefc affiiftions, fo bitter and grievous, is to bore the eares of thofc that are the Lords,, that they may hearethisCommandcment, of returning from all iniquitie ; and therefore we are bound inchaines ofafBtftion, that the eyes of oar mindes may bee opcned,to fee our workesand finnes, thewhicharc migntic. Now it is not the evils thsmfelves, but the prefence of God,by his (pirit working in them, which doth thefc things. For the mightie God fin the fifth Verfe of that Chapter^ is made the principal! worker of thefe things^by the means ofgrievous calamities. Now this is a great mercie of God : for if wee were not thus brought to repentance, wee would neither fee good daiesher^nor fcape the condemnation of the world, i Cor. j i• Confider therefore, what evils of our lives the Lord would have us rip up and be waile before him

and

5i

»-^

mmm

mm

mm

and it is in generally our difloyall eftranging our hearts from hiai, that our hearts and delights have been more on the finfull pleafures and profits of this Worlds than on cbe Lord, and on ourmoftbleffed covenants of dying to finne, and living with Chrift rifcn, in new-neffe of life. I know^good friend, though you will not bolfler your felfaltogether,yet you will hardly beperfwaded, that your life hath beene no better than a /pirituali Fornication from the Lord: for comparing your felfe with men^ you may fay, that you are not the worft •, that howfoever you have failed, yet you have had fomc care of good duties, asdfbmel6veand acknowledgement of Gods children ,. before others. Gonfider then, tbat God may have glory in our abaftmont, what were the dayes of your prime, and man* hoed, but fpiritu^ll Fornication from the lord > Doubtleflc, I would not revive my old ffcamc,

hue

ms*

m p i n i p

godtvbippeth the abufe of our Peace. I 5 3

bncco hclpc you in the pra&iceof repentance, which without thcie particular considerations , is not eafiiy taken up. And fihcc that nature it felfe hath declined fbme-what from this courle; alas, have you not fet your hart on the things of the world? hath not your love beenc toward them, and your delight in them, and heavenly matter which fliould bee (oughtwith all diligence, yeain the firltp!ace,have wee not looked on thefe as rdufe-wares, out of r*qucft ? Thisabufe o^ourpe3ce,Godwhippeth. For whereas our peace fhjuld have turned hither, to have been an oc-cafion to edifie us more freely in faith, love, patience, and ro have walked onward in the feareof the Lord, declining tvill , and doing good (hould have been a meanes of (filling us wuh the comfort of the Spirit, wee have neglected to build up our (elves ia thofe graces, 28 if there never faould have come a time to ufe them : wee have

had

j-^,

1

/,

I «

We grow carn*Uin ProfptritU.

had no feare in our hearts of wicked companions, yea, of commit-ting with them many wicked aftK ons,we gave our (elves to caftc no joy, but carnall: for this, God ma-kech us eate our bread with our lives in our hand, that feeing wee would not in the fruicion of thefe liberties, yet weroight 3 with Jeru-Jalem in the daies of our affliftion , Remember the pleaftnt things which we formerly poflefled (£.*-mcHtations the 17.) And what is kin a word, that bringeth forth all thecurfes of the Law? It is this^ becaufethat in our abundance and plenty, wee ferve not God with good and withcarefallhearts 5 Z>e#. 28,47, I doe not remember thefe thiugs to grieve you, for I have done no otherwife with my felfej before thefe occasions came on me. What then if one have ft rayed thu$ 3 is there no mercy? yea truly, there is me*"cy with the Lord in Israel (in his Church) even for theie sourfes 1 though wee have

taken

tJMtrcjfortbt greatejl finners.

taken ftrange wives, let us renew our covenant of turning from all cvilljand following righreoufnefle and bolinefle, and the Lord will be gracious. Read Ezra 10. and the 55. of E/iy, the 6*7. and 8. though our finnesfh^uld appeare fo great that wee didthinke them unpardonable, yet when wee re-tur^Gods thoughts are notour thoughts. If a mans wife (hould goe a whoring with another, thorgh (hee (hould come backe, he would not receive her 5 but chough wee have ftrayed, yet the LORD biddcth us to returne P as ready to accept w, Je emie 3. 1. How fweet a balme is this, if our /pirit bee broken ? now to draw toacordufioo, the foule is ofc ten in fuch plight, that it would turn", but knoweth not where to finde ability thereunto: ifthisbe your condition, thai you comt to groane under the hardi:e(Ic of your hearr, which willnotlet you bee forrowfull as you dtfire^ remember

—

*.—

bcr to your comfort, that this is the voycc of God s children^ yea, his children repenting; Turnc us O Lord, and wee (hall bee turned. Jerern* 31.18. Remember further, that CHRIST JESUS your Saviour is raifed up of God, to bee our Prince, to give to us re-miffion of fames and unfained repentance: hefitteth at the right hand of God , by his Ipirit to touch your fpirit with unfained repentance. Now,ifthat the Lord doe gather you notwithftanding, forget not the confolation which fahh, that fbrthe abufe of the Sacrament many did flcepe, that is, they were fmittcn with tempera-ry death, yet in all this they were but chafiened of God 3 that they might not be condemned wlih the World. Yet I hope other thing?, becaule fmall is the number that fearedim, Thus having fignified my mird at IargeJ defire 1 he Lords bkfling,and ycut diligent pondering of ihefcthk3gs,ior in them

flan-

InJbxQiop in Affittton.

I

ftaodeth your everlafting peace, A#*d thus commending me in true lovetoyou and your wife 3 I doe betake you to the fatherly prote-Aion of my God. Farewell, this u.ofStfumher.

Your loving friend, Taitl %ayrte.

GOOD Miftrejfc P. when I thinke how I might (Lew yoa fomc dutit ofloye^ I find no fitter way than by writing unto you and inftru&ing you concerning your duty to God under this his holy hand, and hft gracious purpoft to you-ward in this hisvifitation* A letter will dwell by you and talkc with you^ (b often as you reade it attentively, yea it will be ready vvhenfoevcr you arc the fittcft for fiich bufinefle^ which conveniency my comming to rifit you, cannot alwayes at* taine. To fpeake to the firft point-When

58 , Humilitie under Gods Viftmion.

When Gods hand is upon us, wee are fcbjeft to two extremes. the one is,not truly to lay to heart the band upon us: the other is, to droope and be too much ditaaied under if.

Now wemuft walke betwecne thefc, tmly humbling our felves under it; yet as who have hope in ihefaichfull mercies of our God, and therefore faint not* Now the divelljwholaboureth ftill to tun* us out of the way, will tecretly worke with your heart, to ward offthe (mart of this blow by impertinent meanest fb that it (ball not come kindly to prrcke you unto repentance. To this end he willfogge&, that you (hallweare this matter off well enough, hold youtofuchand fuch things, that one is provided for >your care is fo much leffenedjthat you have many behindeyer. Sometime you fhall findeyourfelfc inclinedto nap,as it werej in fuch a courfe as may make you forget forrow for the

pre-

Hnmilixit under Qods Vifitatio*. 1 5p

- w-»-

prefenc.If you fiadc not your heart dtjzfad and turned out of it felfe, as it were, that it may meet God inthishischaftifemenr, then you muftthinke,OLord, not to have a heart,thorcwly caftdowneby (b ftrong a vifitation>, this is a greater plague than the plagae it fclfe. If ftrong phyfickebe given us, and it tvorke not with us, it doth poifon us: O what (hall I thinke if my heart bee not taken downe, and throughly emptied 3 with this (o ftroog a potion, which thou in thyWifedome doeftprc-fcribe unto mc! Againe, fay to your felfe, What doth mychilde get by playing hide^barc^orcaftiog up the hand, when I correft it? Often, as much more as it might have fcaped with: (b Lord,if I doe beare off thy blow in this manner, I fhall but force thec to double my Corrc&ion.lf a Parent fee his fickc childe, not the better for one medicine, he will feeke forth an d get him another: fo if I take not thy

worke

The divill labours to mal^ Gods

worke fo to heart as is meet,I (hall enforce thee to fend me morfcand more grievous things £l£ it may he) of this nature. Looking up to the Lord Jefus , in fuch like thoughts,will be a good preferva-tion againtl this fecret Folly and Hardneflc of Heart, which di£ inableth us duely to waigh the Lords rebuke aod bee caft downe under it* Now if the Divell fe# that you are inclineable togriefe, then he will turne his courfe to the other band,and will labour even to drench you infbrrow and make you walke hopelefle, and to faint under it. To this end he will hide from your eyes the remembrance of fuch things heretofore in which youmight take comforr D yea keepe you frem tafting the mercy of God, with which his afftiQing hand is intermeddled. Secondly, hce will amplifie before you the prefent band of God, and all old matters which may ferve for circumftances that make it more grievous* For

example.

Children faint under Affliftion.

example, hec will whifper whofe ftace is like thine, the pooreft,now you muft pray and pay them, aad they wil not be gotten:the boothc in the garden that was wor.c to be the place of yoar folace, how is it become a place of feparatioa for the infe&ed, it may bee ? every mouth filled with th\s,Tbe PUgm U at Adifirefe P. the fervant that (hould eafc you, being a grievous burden. A&d here bee will prefle fore all yoar weafcnefle in your govetnement over yoar children, which may make this ftroke of God (among them)more deepely afteft you.Fmally will he (ay,Doe not you fee what comfort com* metntoyou? Thirdly, hec will hide from your eics all the hope of iflbe^ which God is raoftfaithfull to give in due feafdn.

Now if you difcerne that the matter hangeth on this fide, then you muft thus prevent your firin-ting,(ay with vour feIfe^Lord 3 why fhould it be tnus witfe raee ? doth

not

61 | Wt tnnft notfdtnt under aflliRion,

«■■*

doc my child cake bitter orfweec which I give ic, and (hall not I take this cuppc from thy hand ? Shall I take good^ in good worth from thee, and not evill? Art thou not as mercifull in providing us Phyficke forourfbules health, as in all thy other daily benefits? Meat is more neceflary than me-dicine,in the fcafonof it: and what are tbeie evils thou fendeft, but phyficke of our foules health? For the good of our bodies wee take things agiinft which our ftomack rifeth, ourflefh (hunketh as wee take them, and we labour to keepe them their time. O Lord, when thou niiniftreft for our foules N good, yea, our bodies, eftaces,and pofterities after us, (hall we not be as willing both to receive and rctaine in thought, thy courfes to this purpofe, I meane which tend to our (pirituall good t Secondly, youmuftnoc dwell in, butturne your thought from fuch particular circumftanccs as doe but weaken

AffliElion bitter but mdicinabk.

you, looking both ac rhinggpaft, prefcat, and to come, which may minifter comfort unco you.VVhen wc have a bitter potion todrinke., we doe not (ifwebremoreaveile from medicine) tafte every drop at the tongues end 3 but turne it in by great, and we thruftinfbme T^cfate^ov Mantu Cbrifli after it: and we chink upon the afcer-healch of our body, to which it worketb, and thus we get it downe, though otherwifcwee have no mind to it. The Lord give as this wifedome, forourfoulef, that wee may not dwell too much in exaft (canning fuch particulars, by which the de -vill fceketh to winnow our belief, that we may remember his fweet mercies, and thioke of our foulcs I health, which God worketh by them. Now whacfoever things ape objefted,fuch as are true muft bee granted, but fo,that hope bee not therefore weakned, in this wife; Lord, it is true, that I have many wayes provoked thine anger, but

thou

thou arc a God that wile not kcepe anger for ever 3 thou wilt not have man lb nourifli difpieaiure in himfelfe , that^tbe Suwic (honld go d owne in his wrath,how much kfie wilt thou fce iweconcileablc? O no,thou art as quicke in forgivc-neffe to a contrite heart, as (low to. conceive a wratfi againft us, of which we have good experience daily. And Lord^ it is true, thy hand is extraordinary and many wayes heavy upon me, but I have learned that I muft nocchufe my owoerod, with which I will bee beaten 3 but leave that to my Fathers wifdorae. Again,l know that my need doth require it all,we are made heavy, when need is, with fiindry tentacions, faith Ttter. A wiftPhyficianwilnotgivea rtroog thing, where a leoitive and gentle matter is enough, wich lede woul-cfeft thou. And I further confefle, that I may bee juftly upbraided,! with my former wants, but Lord,l beleeve there is mercy with thee,

rea^

m a

fflrtlio

»•

reaching to forgivsneflV/h-cchoo maieft be feared, and that this is j cbiefe glory,there is none like to thee in for c i veoefle,fei pafling by the fi-ines of thy people, O Lord, v*hat neede I thy grace and mercy, if I were not in my felf^ ill defer-vi gaudmiferable? and though I fedenoc the comfort I defire, yet I doe bt leeve thy nurcy no Icfle in Chnft r a Fattier doth not greatly pifty hisc-iilde,wfcen hefeeth him fickc ofPhyficke ^ewly taken; for hee knoweth that if it fhould not worke with him,ic would doe hi n no good, and bee kuoweth tha? his childe (hall be welhenough, to hen the working isover. So dolt tboa. Lord; Vvhich maketh thee hide wh^n Wee arc troubled, and not on'ch oaonc, became thou feeft there is no hurt toward us,thotigh wee feeme to feck the contrary, chough ic might fccm we fh*U never have day again.No w then both the by-waits bringdifcovercd, ic will be more caSctoinformc y- d,

D c< n

_i

concerning the righc way in which ycu nmft walke that yon may come fafe forth of thefe troubles .If you ask bow you are to walk* thac you may have happy iflue ? I answer in few words,(b that you joyn with repentance hope cowards God,that he will beale thefe things and love you freely. Firft,bcnot affraideto remember finnes pad, God will make triacles of theft vipers. Here if you have becne fub-jeft to great unfruitfulneffejament it; for we, the more we beftow on our gronnds, looke to reape the more from them •, If to diftruft in your heavenly Fathers care over you, if unto too much neerntfle, which is often a daughter of di-ftruft, if to quicknesjf to any infirmity (for the fpiric of man know-eth what is in man) recount it with your heart, judge your felfe worthy to be cut off for fuch waies wherein you have fwerved, if, God fhould deale in jufticr, and ' not in mercy. Secondly, ftrike a

new}

4 happy iffm out of offli8$3n.

£3

jew covenant with God for the :ime to come, that through his grace you will have care more and nore to mortifie every evill way, ind to be fruitful! in every good worke. Looke Esni the lo.Chap. 1 a^.Thirdly^youmuftlooketo the Lord, as who only muft hcale you, hoping in his mercy; He is the healing God; He that layeth the rod on,tnuft take it off} and if a debter will be forth of danger, bee muft :ompound with his creditor, who only can free him from feareof ar-reft. And here you have great canfe to watch over yonr heart, that in ufc of means it be not withdrawne from the liv ing God. We are fuch crceples that we can hardly reach a Crutch into our haids, but that we will walke alfb leaning upon it. Now God onely is your life and length of your dates, thefe things without him, will ftand as in no (lead, it is not the Apothecaries drugge, but the ufe of it, which the art ot the Phyfician teacheth, that

D a hea-

*

* ■■ <

68 Our wants muft drive m t* C^tifi.

l«VMv«M» III ■ ■ i.l ■ ■ ■« ■ ■ >. , i ,

healeth a difeafe. So much more may we fey, it is not the creature, but the Lords ufc, and application of it to this or that purpofe, which ftandeth U9 in ftead. Yea, I would with ycu not to meddle much with things ofthis intention, left while you prevent the plague (which \t may be God will never lee come nigher your per(cn)left I fay while you doe this 3 you caft your ielfe in-to the burning Fever, or fome di-ftemper oi that nature. Now wfcen you finde your ielfe unable to doe thefe things, yoiTmuft, grieving at your wants, looke unco Ghrift, who doth give repentance and pardon of fin tohislfrae), and who is both the beginner and finifhsr of their faith* Now toaddeaword concerning Gods item, it is ever gracious to us that are his. When be frowneth^be is a Father, no leflc than when he fmilech upon us. A { man willbeare much when he /pi-eth thiSjthat it commethfrom love it fclfe, and from love proceeded

* ■ > ■

The [met fruit of tfft&tons.

deth every courfr, he pafleth upon us, as well this of adverfity, as chc other of profperity. Whom he lo-veth he chafteneth, faith the Scripture. Ifwemarke what God doth by them, it is more apparent: for hee fitteth us by faflfcring a while^ to receive all good thing?, both of this life, and that to come. What doth a Chriflun heai t defire? That ic eould beleeve on God, giving glory to his Word,that it had more Urength ofgrace^that it might fecle adecayof finne, andbeprcferved from failing into it: that it might grow up in acquaintance with God> and come to tafte his love, more and more, which is better than life. Now thefe things God worketb by afflictions. For he ta-keth one, and putterh him paft the helpe of all the creatures, to no other end, but that he might leirne to bcheTeon God the Creatour, who giveth life, 2 Cor: 1. For fuch is the wickednefle of our hearts, that they will ccver make out to

D 3 pur-

69 \

I

\

«■»

7°

jiffiRiovs purgative.

-*~

purpofe unco God, while they have any fcnfiblehelpe, in which they thinke Co finde fijecour.

True ic is, we fcele faith rather weaker for the time, boc fliaking the Torch, which fortheprefcoc k emeth to put ic out, doih make it blaze: Phyfick,which for the cine weakens, doth tend to ftrengthen the body, the feme may be Aid in this. Secondly, thefc through the worke of God, purge out our corruption : asthefireiatadrofle, (b are thtfe to the remainders of finne in us. True it is,we fcele more ft ir-ring of corruption under them fometimes for a wh?le,than before: but as Phyfick thenexpellcth faulty humou^when ic worketh upon chcm 3 and maketh us complaine, ;s feeling them more than when they wt re let alone, fo dot h Gods Phy-ficke to che fcule: even ic h dri-viag our corruption then, when it makes us fcele, andcomplaincot ic more than ever, God by thefc doth make us partakers of all grace and

holi-

Godafjli8s teprevextfime.

holtnefle. Wee wHb chat we were able co do thus and thus, but when God doch come to us in this kind, then hee furthcrcth thofc defires: for a$ feedputteth forth, by means ofraioe, which fecmes to drowne it, Co doth the feed of God grow in us, by meanes of fuch troubles, which one might thinke would overwhelme it. Thefe againe are fenc co prevent the future breakings forth of our corrupt natures^ For as you give your Iitrie ones Cordiallsnow, not that they have the fickncfl?,but that you may keep them from taking infe&ion:fo doth God putthefe cups into our hands, not fa much forfinnepaft, as for preventing finneco come. Finally, we come to acquaintance, and to feele Gods love more abundantly bythefe: adverficybrccdcch patience; patience,expcrience of Gods loving helpe to us in due feafon: experience of this love, hope: and as lovers are never greater friends, than after their fallings out: fo it is ]

D 4 with I

— — - *

God trUi , before he trttfts.

wichGodand the faithful! foulcs: thus is it with ycu.God doth now prove you,that he may in your latter do you good (I hope) through lefbs Chrift: for as men will firft try, before they commie any great matter of truft • fo doth God with us, he doth come and try our behi-vieur,when he is willing totruft us withhishle9ing,and with benefits both fptrituall & corporall. Wher-fore looke, good M. P. with your Saviouratthcend ofthecroflcy hat will fweeten the bitternefle of it. Wee never greatly ftickc at fuch trouble, which we know will pay well at the parting.Thusfhall thefe your troubles ( waitii g on lefts Chrift the Lord)through whom all things worke to your good. It may be,you will chinkc this is true,you could believe it,but that you fee no fach likelihood of mercy toward you.But this is as if you fhould fay^ I would belecve on Chrift, if I might fee him, and put my fingers in his wounds J no: we muft not be

God angry mtb bis^ jet loves ttem.

Tbomajis^box pray God to increafe our faith, that wee hope againft hope, and beleeve that wee fee not thac To at length, wee may fee the things we belceve. I, but yoa may think God cometh in anger againft yoa. I anfwer, Gods anger is not without love, when hee dcalcth with his children; from love it cometh, and it reideth to your renewing of love. Againe, as I told you, he is a God thac will not keep anger, we looking to him, in that Sory n whom he is well plea fed. If one of our children ftiould (ay ro us when we are juftly moved, Father, you meane me no good/for you arc angry ;we would anfwer 5 Becaufr I meane thee good, therefore I am angry.Looke to him that hath Cid, Though I correft you,yet my love will I never take from you. Wait upon him, who though hee make heavie, yet will returne 8ccomfort in rhe multitude of his mercies, Lj/w.3. 32. AnitheAuthourand Finifher oi our faith,help your be-

D 5 leefe

73

- -

!

Vnty ofhve to ddmmifb.

leefe, andhee that givcth wifdome \ 1 without upbraiding, give you wtf-Jom« to carry this prefent cxercKe ofyour patience co his glory, and the great iocreafc of your after comfort.

8, Expiftulatorj.

DEarc Madame, I bavebeene long unable to fee pen to paper, which hath kepr mee from performing the beft office of lev* J;at is wkhin the compaffe of my abUity,but fiwee your love did get ihe flare of mee by preventing mee with your kinde remembrance; it hath been a fpurre further inviting me tothisduty,whichIhad within my ftlfe voluntarily vowed. My mirde is to advertifc you out of love«pf fomedifeafes which [ fcare grow upon your foule, and to give you occaf on through Gods ble£ fang, of renewing your repentance unto falvation. God comandeth to exhort one another, left our heart* bw hardened through ihcdeceuful-

nefie

True love cannot flatter*

nefleoffinne, and toconfiderone another, that we may provoke to love. As this imboldencth mee, fo I am encouraged from hence not a Iittle,that I know the patience of your eare to admonition,^ & moTC adornet h the inward man, than any eare-ring of Gold can grace the-outward. But Ihould your L. take that with the left hand, which I reach with the right, this fhould not bz a SvptrfedeattQ mce, compelling mee to defift from performing my purpofc : for I account him a covetous flatterer,, which for the good of thole he owtth duty t*>, will not venture a word 3 which may adventure (for a time) the loflc of his favour. Wherefore profcffing before God my love to your L. Soule and Name, and afluring my felfc that bee will be my all-fuffident reward, while I walke before him in uprightnefle, give mes leave to tell yon, what I have a longtime fufpetted. The grace of

God

75

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■ *. - ■»■

I

!-

7 6

I

Iheway ofthtrighttouiiil^ theJHn.

_ — ■ . » ' * ■ ii ■

God teacheth all fiichas tafteit 5 to live, (hs wing forth godlinefle, fo-briety, and juftice, ia this prefenc evill world: and the way of the righteous fhould be like the Sunne, which rifingmoredimly,dothftill increafe in the light and heate of if, till it come at the higheft. Now my feare is, left your godlinefle, which hath beene fbmetime very confpiciousin you, befbmewbat abated,left the care of remperancy, and equity, which you owe reward the meaneft, be diminifh-ed : left fbme fpice of the contrary breed about your foil ley as a ficke humour : which thcughie cannot quire choake and excin. guifti the lifeofgrace 3 yetit hinde-reth rhar growth and thriving of ir whichiscobewi(h?d # If I fhould feare beyond that I have ground for, yet you are to cenfureit as a fruit of love, while it ftirrech mee up to any good office abourycu,as I#£\r feare about his children, is m^nifcii to have flowed from his

fiogular

The hfe ofgodlwejje.

I

71

Angular love, by the (acrifice it movetb him to offer in their be-balfr. Buc how juftly my ieareis conceived, I will leave it coyear con(cienc5 to judge, when I have madenarration of the particulars following. What (good Lord) rtiould (hew forth the life and power of your godlinefle> Is it not thecarefoll getting of fiich meanes a? may further it in you and yours? is it not the reverent and religious ufing of the m?Is it not the cleaving to tbofc more af£&ionatly than to ochers, who are before others in godlineffcMf in yourcourfe theft waitrs be considered, it will ap. pcare that eveo in chip regard there i> fuch defed? asyou mu!t diligent-lylabourro fapply. The meanes, nrx' to the publike, of promoting gcd'inefle in you and yo'r family, isthep*efenccof one whoispru-derrtto Jwowyourcfbte^rd faith-full to advertife accordingly. The flyiug exerciiQs of men that come andgoe 3 doe not fee forward this

plough*

•

■ ■ I ■ ■ ■ 1 ■ I ■ I

78 Rtmijfenefft infelhwtng the meanes

■ ■ ■ — . » . « ■ -»»

plough, like as the conftant pretence, word, and example of one who knoweth you, and is knowne of you, Now,when you arc where publikemeanes may be had, fueh as your felfe eftecrae powerful!; is not your L.more remiflely aflfe&ed toward them, than becommeth a zealous godly minde, yea, than fometime you have beene, when ycu (bould frequent them diligently, though fixe times more removed than now they arc > For though, when naturall flrengch failetb, there may be an omiffion of fome outward meaoes, without prejudice of inward devotion $ yet God hath given you fo able a habke of body, at your yeeres, that you can venture as farre, cither for exchanging civill tour-tefies,or for refreshing your felfe uich fuch contentments, as the civill communion of friends doth affoord. For the private meaaes, the conftant refidence of one, who might bee as a private. Steno you

and

-;

ofSalvation, an illfigne.

m i ■ n i i , - ■

and your?; have you profecuted this, with that devotion you ought t Then fhould not want of a Bed, have kept mec this Winter from beiog with you; then

| could you not,afcer yon had tafted my Dj&rine, and feene (for ray

; meafure) fimplicity, and inoferv fivenefle in my conversion, you could not (I fiy) with ftch o-verturc have reinvited raee. To fpeake fparingly, I have obkr-ved in you an affe&ion, fuch *$ is in thofe who cheapen; who would have the thing, but for coft ; contrary to the Merchant fpoken of in the Gofpcl, who would fell all, rather than not carry away his commodity with him. Whercfore^layiog your hand on your heart, bethtnke your telfe, where is that dne affr&ion, to the bed meanes of building you up in grace : If this one thing were as much in your defire, as Dtvidj- you would not reft, till you fa w your foule pofleffed of it:

the

«- . -4

79 !

.

•-

.————— ' ■■!■■■ II II " It.

8 o j Wc mujf be hatneft after the wants.

the wife Merchant doth not ondy account of the pearle & Treafure, bat hee fclleth all, to purchase the field in which the Treafurc is hidden; (o highly hee reckonech of meeting with fuchan one, who is as a VeflcJI, in which his Chrift is contained andcooveyed unto him; The violentreceivethe Kingdome. The Lord keepe us from following that which belongeth to his bu-finefle, with a cold indifferency. Ic may be you thinke • Why > I am notdeftkute, I have the Labours of many Chriftian men, as they may be procured. To which I an-fwer : Ic is not in bringing forward Chriftians, as icisinraifhg other creatures. Change of Panares \a ill make fat Calve?; but changing of Preachers, neither knowing you, nor knowne of you, will never bring your foules to be weli-Jikmg, and take incrtafe before God,-'as they ought: it will not helpe the B^bes growth, to get it a weekly change of Nurfcs. Be-

fitted

— I H W >

Change of Preachers unjtmtfnll.

fides 3 whcH ftrangers corocthey fee the faireft piece, the out-fide only > and if (in fume one) they heare fometKing not good, yet being foonepoflefled with that great and good report of you and your Fa-mily,they rather count it a lingular exorbitancy, than any thing cufto-msry in your fervants prafttce. Hence it is, that they come and goe, foraetinae giving commend*, tions, feldorae touching the Iocall griefes, the fores of your honftiold. Wee will not have one make us a I (hooe, who knoweth not ftrft the length ofour foot : and were wee to ufe the phyfician daily, wee would not ftill commit our (elves to new ones, who never had obfer-ved our bodies. If wee are to ufe counfcll, wee k^rpe to fuch who have the beft infight iato our cafes. So in the Phyficians of our Souje, it is a great advantage to have them to minifter to us, who by their conftant obfervation art beft acquainted with our neccfliebs.

V"here-

81

I

Wherefore execute you lb long fince fettled; me neth ac home: Will yo to many other Churche the Church in your ow But to leave this Head, the beft raeancs,and a li fidcr the manner of i meanes as you enjoy: ftandethnot in bare he in hearing like Cormliu Bereans, in taking heed heare, that wee may j That iscrue Divinity, r! theCnriuiiu* nojwhi but how wee doeit,do to our fou\c$> that we Ghriftians. Now, goo little fufpefl:, that you thefe duties in fuch f fort ere-while, as if tc the worke howfbever, dent. I am afraid you after thefe exerctfes g thatpowerfull worke, ingall fi.ifull lufts and in pra&ice, in ftrengch

conforming fpiritualcie, in ma-ng you heavenly minded; I feare yoofindenot thiseflicacie, which theWord hath where it isdaely mingled wich beleefir* I have observed in your L. a readinefleto hearealwaies, but not a proportionable care of chewing the C id,of digeftingand incorporating it into yourfoule,and pra&ifingihethings you have heard. This maketh the Wordyou have heard, vaine; and nothing feene of ie, in regard of alteration, or augmentation cauftd by it, in him who is the hearer. And at they who know not what it is ro pray confcionably^vill call j moft readily and freely for prayer j (b many will call freely to heare, notihat they feele fpirituall hunger, but becauft they confider not what goeth to hearing confeiona-bly, in regard of preparation before, watching over our fclves in it, that wee miy feck it fruhfull in us, Againe, I have feene you, in prayer, without caufc of any

extra-

■

tfam^mm

*4

^*—•

Godsfctvtce, net to be done Overtly*

■■■■ i • m iii, i ■

extraordinary weaknefle rife from kneeling to fitting * which kinde of liberty doth n<# well fu:c with that Religion reverence, which befeemerh Gods fervants, while they worfhip before him. Yea, I have heard., that It hath beenc talked in houfes where ycur L. hath lodged,that my L. 7^, would have her roan reading a Chapter by her, and her (elfe be fome-time talking, (bmetiine fouling, yea, now and then chiding, at the fame time. I cannot hide it from you, I heard it wkhgriefe^ and whether it be true or faMe, you have need to make ufe of ir» Deare Madame,takehced how yon heare, looke to your fcet^to the afFcftions of your heart, wheo you come before God. Hee will be/anftified in fiich as draw ncere unto him, or he will do as he did to Aarons fonncs, hee will glorifie hirafelfe in judgements on them* One raay heare, call others to heare, give commendations to the things and manner

Lnflslnnder the benefit of the Word.

rimer of fp-aUng, welcome f he per-elfon, faften a gift on him; and yet in all this, be devoid of life and power of Religion, in hearing. Endevour to txpell thofe laits, which clogge and pr-ff dowue yourfoale; then the milkc ^the Word will bepleafar.r, and profitable. To take fuften^ace, while the ftomacke is fircharged with (upe 4 fluitl. s,horcth the b<x!y: fo, till we labour to emptic our fdves of t^e lufts that hang abour us, the I benefit of the Word cannot be perceived. And againe^when you h^vv heard, labour that you may profit by it, that ynu may feek all finfJI lufts weakenedjgraceftrengcheoed, faich & knowledge encreakd,your praftice bettered. Should any care never (b much^ naleflfr he digeft it 3 turne it to bloud^ diftdburc ic into thevehe?,&c# what is the body the better for that which ic rece* ved? For the third evidence of a godly heait, towir, the cleaving more affwftionately to thoft who

arc

^»>

Wt mujl git m grtchKi firvantf.

are more godly, than others; I would there were no defeft in this regard. I have obfeived, that you can equally impart your favours. If any have points of fcrvice, and can apply themfelves to your hi> mour, though they have fmall acquaintance with Godj they (hall be countenanced. This raaketh your family Liofie-woolfie, confirmeth the haunts of forne in their care-leflc courfe; this makech thole that are good, more remiffe than they would be: (houH they finde from you greater encouragement. 1>j-vids delight was in the Saints; hee did purge his family of fuch as were unprofitable, and graceieffe: fuch as laboured to pleafe God in all thing«,not fuch as could get the length of his foote, were precious in his eyes* Can a loyall Wife take pleasure in (uch men who are dbfervanr and officious about her, and be devoid of all refjpeft toward her Husband 1 Are you betrothed to your God, in Chrift*

and

87

and can you abide thejr (trvice a-bout youj who are carclefle in duty toward your Lord, with whom you arecomra&ed? This flieweth,that godlineflc is much decayed, yea, that God is put downe, and our (elves (et up as God, in ourowne hearts; whtn we can like of men, not as we fee them fincerely ferve him,bui as their behaviour is more or Iefle plcafi ig and contentful! to our (Uves, But to leave this firft point, (in which, defire of your good hath made mee more prolixe than I intended) and to come to the praftice of fobrktie, which the grace of God teache'h us who have rruely tailed it : even as a man who hath tooke in the tafte ofchebeft creatures, cannot forthwith feed on that which is meane, cour fe^and no way to be compared to it; fo a Chriftian, who bath ta-fled the goodies of his God, which is better than life, cannot affeft, as fometime before he did, thele fe.1-fuall delight?, which carnall men,

who

Inttmpcrwe in law full liberties.

who know iio Detcer (likr as Swine do /will) follow wun gree-dineffi • Now I feare me here alio, ltit thole ipiri tuU fweetneff-s being foracwhac cciipfed, intemperate cherifting the b^dy,ar« dear s oithc world (partly through fruits voutavetraverfed partly through 1 k»nd (upportsof many) doe fte«le upoo you 5 and win ground mure than they h*ve done heretofore. I biow Goddoth keep your Lirom €xctffive curiofay ,fronn open gluttony/omdu kcneife^biitasin-jnftice is noc oaely in unlawfu'U ftcahh,but in cevt tou* fjllowing a Iawfulicalling:So intemperancy is not onely in thef*outragescxp el-fed, which are openly unlawful!, but alfo in the lt(T holy temperate and reverent ufe of our lawful! liberties and repafts, in eating and drinking wee muft labour to tecle ourthankfulneffe renewed, as the e ff fts of our heavenly fathers pro-v'deixe are renewed: ve muft labor to be heavenly minded/celing

cbe

MJfJIW

.m m*

the gracious pretence of God wich our fpirits at our fweeteft fcafts: it is a fpor, when wc feare not in our feafts, as who are confcious of the fiare that is in every creature, and ourownc weakaeffe. Finally, we eate intcmpctately,when we keepe oot power over our own appetite; when we putnot our knives to our throats, upon feeling any inordina • rie moving in as towards this or that: like as David did, who Sacrificed the Waters which hee had fo importunately defired. Happy are they who fiewe not in lawfull things in eating, drinking, building, fcc A Ship may mifcarry, not onely by hard rockes, but by fofc finds ; which (hough they are not Co violent, yet they are no leffe dangerous. To (cede often liberally, not refraining any thing to which ones appetite leadeth, to be gratifying the ftomacke, now wich one thing, now with another, alas, what doth it ? It diftempe-reth the fl~(h with lull, it doth

E make

«n

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w^

I

Wtmufi wiani o*rfctvesfrom y &c.

^«-

make the very (bule fltfbly a flatted, itindifpofethusco thofctx-'i crcifcs which arc performed by the minder maketh us fit to be kindled with wrath, or any filch like paf-6on; Finally it taketh up the mind with thoughc,whatit flbal 1 nrx f be -iersred- with in this kind. Wher*-forepart Madame f ifany fpiric of humane frailty hach cloven to you this way, remember you are a traveller, ncerer your j >urnies end, than when you firft beleevcd. Gird up your loynes, tuck up this traine of lufting, which will make you unfit to take one ftep this way, without hinderance. The houres grow on, wherein thefc things will yeeld no dcligbr • wee muft weane our felvcs in time^that our laft weaning may not feeme too bitter and grievous to us. If wee didtonour God, by unweared ufe of thefe things, the Lord will pay as home in our owne coyne, and icourge us by that fdfe-fame intemperate praftice, by which he

was

Intttnferanct hurts Joule and body .

i i - —— — ■—

wasdifhonoured inns. How many hugge themfclves to death, and by powring on too much Oile, quite put forth the Light of Life ? I am no Phyfician for your body, ycc I doubt notj but the driving with your felfe, to ufc your law-full Liberties and Repafts more holily,temperatly, and reverently, (let him that is holy, be more holy) will be very beneficiall to your body. For feeding the fto-mackefiall, lb as fuperfluities are engendrcd ^ this breedeth the matter of the Stone, and augmenteth it where it is breed, warming the ftomack now with one thing, now wich another, this doth beget and encreafe the heate, which taketh the matter fore-named into this forme, in which it is voyded. Concerning that laft matter,which all muft pra&ife, who know the Grace of God in truth, viz. Iu-ftice; even in this I have fome feares, which I cannot conccale: and to (pare what I have heard

E 2 re-

$% Equity to bejbewid tewtrds all.

*■»■

reported, as the talke of lome,tbat your L. fctteth up LeAures, your debts undifcharged (for it is my meaning to dealc only in fiich mac-tcrs which my felfe in fome fort have obferved.) To (pare this therefore, my feare is, that you (hew not that equity towards all under you that you ought. It plea* fed God to beftow the childc of a in oft reverend roan, N. N. with you,wbom you have not intreated well, but provoked and grieved rather with exceffive fcveritie and contempt, than encouraged, by (hewing any motherly afR&ion and hoocur/uch as a Chriftian La-dy cannot but know her felfe to owe to thcleaft of her handmaids. The note I tooke of this in my mind, made me firft ufe that phrafe in Prayer, That God would guide us,who goveme,to carry our fcjves u ith fuch moderation as befeemetb them who know, that even i hem-fclves have a Maftct in Heaven. A-Ias a wbom doth your anger purfue?

* , np

The barmelejft mtji harmed.

93

A fatherlcfle cbilde; who ouc of confcience doth humble her felfe under you. Many weake perlons arcfickcofanevillfickneflr; they will make boldtft to offer all hard meafarc to fuch whom they know moft innocent and harmeleffe 5 not caring what eheydoe to fuch, be-c mfc they t hinke they doe it fafely, and (hill hearc nothing but good after ir. Whereas the fame perform will be often veryequjli to thofe who arc of worft difpofiti-on, and take fcchfreedbme in furling, that they tfill no: fpare for any mcanes, which tfoemfelves or their Meads can ufe, to cry quit 1 wich fuch as (hall provoke them* The Lord keepeos from this wic-kednefle. Watch over your felfea-gainft this paflion. It unfitteth you for prayer: It is not Co light a thing in afting, as hcavie when the Co> fcience calleth to reckoning; to wound the foule with words, and by immoderate difpleaftre toraake the life of the Orphant heavie ; to

E 3 maki

- 94

, .i

i\

Govcrnours to be milde and gentle.

make the heart of a Widdow lad • (for (he is a Marble, not a Mother who grieveth not in the Chi Ides grievance) to fhewdifhonour,not onely to the living, but to the dead alfojfo neere and deare to the Lord: I tell you, thefe arc great things, if you looke not on them through thefalfe glaffeofdiftemperate paf-(ion. As God hath bid them honour you, fo hee hath tycd you to honour them, and be rather a Mother, than Lady and Miftreffe to them. For this caufc,tbe Lord doth comprift <3overnours under the name of Fathers and Mothers, to put them in mindeof doing duty to inferiours, as well as receiving fervice from them. God hath com-mandtdus,thatourbrotherbe not vile in our eyes, that wee provoke them not, that wc Chew all equity, nQt ruling over them with a ftrift hand, as Egyft did over Ifratl* that wee follow /o£,in letting them ex-poftulatc reverently withus,wheri they find grievance; and not to be

notftorvarA to inferiours.

9i

like N<th/, who was lb vite, none might fpeake a word in his eare, which did uoc humour him.Ac our I command, ourfervantsthinkenot much co doe ferv ce$ even about ourHorfeshecles: ftiallwethinke much, at Gods command, toper-forme chofe nyoft equall offices toward thofe whom God hath put under us, who are fons and daughters of God with us; Heires of the felfe-fime hope* to which we arc called? Should our Mifterin Heaven lowrc on us., &\d contend with us on every occafion ; coald wee ftand before it > Ltcusnotbe fofcvereandirefull, whoftandfo much in neede of mercy and indulgence. Wherefore, to clofe my ad-vertifemenr, doe not onely leave thofe things but j jdge your felfe 3 for wha:foever frailty hath eftaped you this way,and returncagaineto the Oaih and Covenant, renewing your Vow before the Lord. Doe not reafon in your heart, Why doe > I not thus, and thus? Doth not 1 E4 God

• i

£

li

l!

A Utile pus marts manygood aUigns.

»■ ■ fc ■ .

God allow us lawful! liberties? Why ? mcc thinkts our Minifter might give mee leave with my Maides? Should I a lictle wrong them, cannot I make all whole with fome benefit unexpected? Where hath he learned to beleeve reportfcnot having heard any thirg from my mouth? Thefe are buc ftggeftions of Sutan,to make you fall out with medicinable couufel I, by which your fbule fliould be healed .You do many good things: But God will not, for any good offices, fee any cvill in which wee walke/o as not to diflike it.Looke his Epiftk* to the Churches* A-gainc,why (hould a few dead Flics raarre a Boxe of precious Ointments ? God doth allow us law-full liberties, provided that wee ufe them lawfully, pn&iting ho-linefle, religious fcare, and tempe-rancy in the midft of them. I may not hate you fb,as to let your fbule finne towards a fcrvant; and wee are to teach your L. as well how

to

*■

Goodinttntions excufe not id a&ionj.

> i—■ ■ i > ,

to governe, as your fervants how to obey in the Lord. And yoa may doe that, you cannot heale; you may i mpaire natural! indo wments of minde, by fuch courfes, more than you can rccompence by any Largefle of your liberalitie : for intending future good, will not make that well done, which for the preicnt is evill. For my felfe, I write nothing, but by way of Chtiftian fearc, I have arguments too many, to make me behere in part, what-ever things I pro-pound unto you. Turneirom theft thoughts, as you would from the Direll himfelfe; they are omly prompted, that they may kecpe ycur heart from repentance. Dchy not, while God faideth you a mef-(enger> and knocketh; for if you will not heare this gentle voyce, you know not in what kind he will fjpeake, rhe next. Befide., bee char dclayeth to fet a bone out of joynt^ doth but double hisfroarr, when ic is to be handled, and rcftored.

E 5 Not

-'

97

f ;— ■ ——-—-———

pST' 1 ConfcicHcelikcslooi(i*g-ghjJe.

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s

Not to mention that he that retur-neth not into the way, in fucha party that which is hairing, is Tub* jc& to goe quite forth of it. Ic may be you do not feck yourconfeience greatly checking you in thefe things. I am the forrter if you (houldnot:but Mddtmejcmembct whether it bath not checked you, and whether hy not hearing Gods Spirit, you have not (b grieved him, that he keepeth filence. Bat howfoeyciy the Conference is like a looking-glafle, which while it li-etb all covered with duft,{heweth not (mall matters,but when it is wu ped, then it ruaketh the leaft thing apparent So the Gonfcjence being; clouded with paffion of luft, cu-floppy examples,&c« difcovereth not many things, when it is awaked, & thofc roiftsdifpclled,ic pre-fetiteth as grieyous fins, the things j wbfcfr wee before made light account of.Ic it one thing *iot to have an accufing Gonfckncei another thing to have a cleare Confdcnce.

A

r

fbrijt onr SmnBijiir^s well as^&c. Y "99

1 ' 1 i T * l ■««««*«■

A man may have the S one, who feelcth no Fie ofi:: A man may have,in fbme regard, an cvill Cofi*-fcience, who fecleth, for the time, no Fie of accufation in ic. Wherefore, deare Lady, be wife: God hath taken the yoake from your necke, truftcd you with liberty,gi-venyoua Summer, to provide a-gainft Winter $ O make tip foundly your peace with God. Confider your infirmities,in time of tempta-I tionefcaped:C6fiderthefe : fithence your deliverance; judge them in yourfelfe; flie co Chrifr,nor only as made of God, your juftifier from the guile of fin, but your San&ifier from the blot of ir. Pray him ear-ncitly, to faveyou from the daily power of thefeevills, whichftill you find to have dwelling in you. You have neec^like the Anr,to ga-ther iu the Summer, when God trufted you wth health 8c liberty; the rather, u ccaufc Godholdetha fiingmg Rod oreryou, the Lafli whucof, fhoukiit light ona Con-

feience

'■■ m>m*

m*~m

■pp

lob 1 Remembrance of fin in visitation.

•**•

■

1

1L

fcicnce naked, ft ripped of his favour^ would fecme unfupportable. Thinke with your felfe, what joy yon can take r when God (hall vifit you, if your Confcicnce fhalltcll you, that you have had good purports, but neglefted to execute them; that you have drawne neere to God, but without due care to (an&ifisbimin your fpirit, in bis Ordinance?^ and profit by them: That you have not advanced his glory in your family as you oughr j that you have borne too gentle a band ever the lufls of your hearr, favouring your felfe too much in them : that you have in anger too muchcxceeded,and trade t hero feel it raoftjWhom you (hold moft have tendred. ThinkeJ fay^ what comfort you can haveinfuch thiflgs'r e-membred. But if you will awaken your felfe, judge your (bole, hold Ghrift to give you ftrength againfl thole and all other corruptions* then fhall light arife ia darkeovflc^ you&all fad it truciht ugh tor che

ere*

The corrupt mlndindurts not reproof

prefect you fecle a warfare, that light is fowne for the righteous; though evills come, God will be your ftiadow at your right hand,to refrefti you in them, peace fliall dwell with you in life and death, which I wifti your Ladifhip in fefm Cbrift. If I fecme to your L. to ufe greater freedome in dealing with you,che perfwafion I have of your fincericy and (bundnelfe imbolden-eth me thereto j found flefii feeleth no griefe,when we handle it (bme-whac hardly: but it isa fignc an ulcer is bred in that flefh, which may not indure any fort to be touched. Neverthekflk, I thank God,l have ufed to my knowledge, no liberty and plainnefle, to which fidelity do'.hnotinforceroe.

Thus craving your I. to take thefc things dowoedeeply,though they (hould make Gck for the time., feeing that they aims at nothing butyour fpirituall heahh, &f raying fee Lord for you* who bleflerh all Phyfkke, both corponll and I fpirituall,

foi

.

Concerning * Wivtt ficknefft.

fpiricuail, and health by it, I cake my leave.

9

LOviog Brother, we do remember you and ray Sifter, and are rruly affe&cd toward you, though my diftraftions, iraployment, and I know not what indifpofition (which I dare not every way a-vow) doc caufe me to write more rarely.Now lean deferreno longer from fignifying 01 r remembrance, and advenifingyou howthingsgo with us, left you fhould challenge me hereafter,as not informed. My rood Chriflian Wife (yourSiRer) hath, fince Eaftcr Iaft, beenevcry il), and it hath not pleafed God to bltfle any meaoes which fhee hath attempted here, or cl{c-whcre. Sirce our lift parting with yoo, flu continued till within this fortnight, crafie, but not feeling any violent working of our infirmities: but now of litc^and especially this weekej her ftrength is more than ordinarily; enfeebled* that I fcarc

(refer-

Mourning acceptable to aCbrtJlistn,

■ - ■ ■■ '■ ' ■ —■■ ' i

(rclerving to God whatfoerc couiw t

fes make with h;s glory) you flwll not long tr joy ftch a Sifter, norl luch a Wife,of whom I am unworthy. Which I foggeft for two rea-fbos: The one, that you might remember her cftate more fervently thanotherwife; againe, that you might feafonably reibrt to her, if it will any whit increafe your con-icntment, as it (hall be gladfome to us whenfoevcr, to fojoy your p re-fence. The Lord teach us to number our daie?, that .wee may apply our hearts unto wifrdome, and the Lord give us underftanding, which may mike our hearts be as well pleated in the houfc of mourning, as the fuoles are in the boufe of carnal rejoyciog. Broiher, our terme lafteth not alwaies > tbe Lord-make us wife to know the acceptable time, and while it is called to day, not to be hardened through the deceirfbJndfc ©kfinne, butto tarne to hion, and for. a-, fare--'wcll^. when you&ehow your client*

T

IO3

4

cnts waic at your Chamber dores, fee king to gaine earthly inheritances, how much more fhould wee waite at the dore of Wiftdomeg houfe, which will give us an cver-Ufting inheritance? Readethe 8.of the Proverbs, theendof the Chapter, where the Lord (eemeth to make this alluGon: I will tell you, if we that are the Lords, come to be lifted, we {hallbe more diligent this way, Counfell is not cared for (as you know well) till fome flaw be found in evidences: when once there groweth queftion, then the learned Counfellour groweth in re-queft : fo becaufe our confidence raaketb no qaeilion of that great eftatc in the heavens, therefore we wake not on Gods mouth daily, both in ufing meanes publike and private with diligence, Thus your Sifter and I 5 doe remember our felves unto you, and my Srfter, (to whom you may eomraefulus) and take our leaves abruptly.

lo» Cen<

,..- ■

Comfirt tn fickfltfli.

j 105

10. Confolatory.

LOving Oufin, J would be glad co hcare how God doth carry en your weakc frame, but this is a thii)g,which though I may wi(h eafily, yet I cannot fbcafily ttfeft ir. If weakneffc grow on you,it muft comfort you,that your prifon is not ftrong enough to hold your foule long imprifoned. How welcome is the evening to the weary labourer ? So to us fhould be the (hade of death, in which we reft fiom all onr travelL If you thdc paint, ftekefor that faith which may quench the fire^ if it be good for you that it ftould be fuddenly quenched, if otherwife, lookcto him who hath promifed in fire and water to be with us^aever to leave us, nor for fake us, Thinkconhis goodnefle, who will have finfull men eafe their enemies beafts, an* der the burden which opprefletb them. Looke finally tothofe glorious jo jes^to which thefe momentary affliftions fhall bring you. Even

asi

fc

06

T>eath thoHgbfainfull 3 ytt &c.

as the waters tall downe^ not able to abide in grounds that lie high, (6 the (enfe of thefe affli&ions gocth away from mfades, that arc lifted op in fuch contemplation, A-bove all things rcpyce, that ycr you {hall (hortly atcaine your fovrJ, your Lord, to whom yourfbule by faith hath becne Iongcontra-fted. Shec is a forrie Spoufe, who cannot make a fhift with an uneafie horfe, while ftiee rideth to fee the confutnmation of her love, with her betrothed Husband. Doth together with weaknefleand paine, poverty in things (pirhnall; doth any defertionjnoleft you? Know that this is but the wHedome of our God j who, as Phyficians doe mingle many things in the fame potion, fb doth intermeddle many matters in the fame temptation, that it may be more efFeftnallto his glory and our good* Thinke with your felfe, a wife Phyfician will not put in his prefcript a Dram too much; God will not

exceed

fFe MMJl reji en God in ntcfffittes.

■ -— -i m~ .1 _ ■ i -

xceed chat quantity any whit which is fie for his patients. Hold outothe rocke, and ftand Hill, he things are clouds which will idc over you, and goe away : though it be nighf, we (hall have dayagaine. Who is it thatfeareth the Lord > If hee be in darkotffe without light, kc him leane on the Lord his God. For coodufi-on- Doth outward neceflny, with her threatning, any thing difturbe you ? Looke to him who taught S c Paul to want, who made him fay, he would doe all things,, while his Lord ftrengthened him. Looke to him who circamciihh hearts with circumcifion not made with hands, who can make us fo deny ourftlves, that wee (ballfiadeno paine to follow him: Be (brry for nothing, but that having fuch a Father^youfhould be careful!. We fan&ific our Heavenly Father, when no unbeleeving fearc com-mcth neere us. You know the truth of my love to you,, and I

know

*■ * ¥■

L. -^

100

08 Wt muQtut neghtl offtriuitity.

\

know how eafily I can (through \ Gods bleffing) procure that which would refrcfli you feafonably, Whmforeif you (hould notim-part it to mee timely, before the< oyle and meale be quire fpent, you (hall negleft a good meane,: which Gods providence doth fhew you, you (hall be wanting ro your owne comfort, you (hall requite mee with no fmall unkindnefle. Thus with my loving Sifters commendations, I commit yon to God.

Yonrs as his owne, PmhI Bajne.

II. ExfefiHlatory.

GOod S r . C. Were my ability and freedome from occasions at this time,fuchas might be wi-jftied, I would fee youinpetfon, and not vifit you by writing: but love muft be content to crcepe when fhee cannot goe at liberty as fhedefireth.S r .C. could I bethioke

me

Godafflittf his m <• Father,

te of my cordial], or other thing /hich were like to eafc your ficke affion, fhould I not be a Traitor )r ever in frlendfhip,if at this time ftiould hold my peace? So is it 3 1 ould not beare(even in rpy conference) too much blame, if thinking >f feme things which may ferve to he good both of your body and bule, I fhould containe my felfe nd not impart them. Wherefore jood S r . C. give mee leave a little o commune with you now being inder the hand of God : For even kilfull Phyficians, when them-lelves are vificcd, will uft the ad-rice of their inferiours. You know xtter than my felfe, that ordinarily in all affit&ions God doth offer himfclfe as a Father to us, chaining us, that hee may make us partakers of holinefle, yea, even by death it felfe hee doth chaften his, that they may not be judged with the unrepentant world. Thu$Idoubtnot,buthe doth with you. II then wee arc under Gods

chaftening

iio

Wt tnufl mourm for fin in afflilVton

chaftening hand, wee muft firft la* bour to take to heart onr faults, for which our heavenly Fachei doth take us in hand. Secondly, wee muft feeke his mercy in forgiving thcin, a'id removing the temporary corre&ion, (b tarre as may ftand with his glory. Thirdly, *<iee muft be cirefulltofeeke the u(e of them in all things following, if God (hall thinke good, to raife us, andtruftus with longer time in this prefenc life. You know that ic is the part of ana-turaTl ingenious childe to grieve for that, whereby he hath provoked his earthly parents difplea-ftre, and {hall it not be our dudes much more toward our heavenly > Till we know and feel our fickneflc (bmewhat grievous, we cannot affectionately keke that Phyfician. Wee count him our friend, who warneth us of fomething growing on our bodies,which we could not difcerne of our feIves;Take ic^Ibe-feech you, as my heft-lore, if I

prefer

, yatnraffmenfpiritupll Adulterers*

nc

)refer co your considerations fome hugs which I cake co have bcene br chief e infirmities of your fouie. kW our hearcs arc by nature full of pirituall adultery, wee love the )ltafure$anrf pomp or this worlds WU let then carry away from God, 3u- molt lively and teudereft affections. Now if a man of crue honour would challenge himielfe, [hould he be but falfc in love co hi s rarchly afJociate? How much more (hould it grieve us, who have let our hearts play talfr with our hea venly Husband? Againc, (bould one keepe cheir heart to ihdr Love in fome fore, but not care to come into the andefikd bed, in .which their moft neere benevolence is mutually imparted; were I it not a Grange difl -yalcy in perform married one co the other ? What then (hall wee thinke, who by profeffion married co God, have not cared for partaking in cheminifteryof che Word, which isthe.Bridill-bed, wherein by his

(pint,

T"

112

«■*

Not to commnnUste in the fins, &c.

)

fpiric, he doth communicate with our (bules bis fweetcft favours 3 and makcth them 6e conceived with fruit of righteoufnefle, to evcrla-ft tog life. Abantb and Fharpar were as good waters as lor dm: but ic pleafed not God in them to heale Naamans leprofie, but in Jordan. It pleafed God by the foo-lifhneflc of preaching, to fave all who fhall beleeve # Laflly, if you have made the finnes of others yours by communicating in them, and not reproving and reforming them when you had power,(a$ the finnes offervants in houfe with you j) yoa muft rake knowledge of this, and let it grieve you: when you have friends comming to you, you will have your fcrvants not onely fcrve you, but be rcfjpe&ive to them, carefull that they by no nideneffe doe give them diftafte. How then fhouid it grieve us to thinke, that we have not cared, Co we have been fcrved to our minds, how our God bath been negkftcd,

ye*>

yea, provoked ? No wconfidering tbefe things, andthofcof likena-tare^which you are privie to within your felfe, feeke to God in the death of your Chrift,for the removal! of them, of the fin chiefely; of the corre&ion, (b farre as hee (hall fee good. Ungodly men are like Pharaoh, who bade Mejespr&y to Godto take the plague away: but Gods children like Davidfhty fly to the multitude of Gods tendered mercies, to take away their finne. You may come with boldneffe to that mercifull God in Chrift, who !aith,that though a man would not take a wifconce put away for adul-tery,yet he will receive his people^ even after their adulteries; if they feek to him repentantly. It is a folly to (hive togetloofefromfick-ncfle, if we firft fcekc not to have releafe from finne. To breake the Gaole without being acquitted by the Juclge D is no true liberty. To fee rhe Sergeant,without compounding with the Creditor, cannot

F make

U4

Vipery-iike evils made wbolefome,&c.

» ' I ' ■ ■ ■■■! I > » | , .

make found peace, Laftly,I doe in-treat you tofeeketheufeof Gods vifitation before all things. However hee (hall deale with you 3 hec who hath commanded finfull man to joyne inftruftion with correction, hce who hath taught man that he will not beat a Dog, but he will put it into his fenfes as well as hce can,what it is for which he ftriketh hiouhe,] fay, will not faile to teach youj why his hand is on you, and make you profit by ic. This is the feale that God hath ordained us, and called us according to his pur-pofe of bringing us to life, when all things^ven thofc cvills ofcrof* fes, turne to our ipirituall good. His Fatherly skill doth not make thefe VipcrJikeevills into whole-fome triacles, for any, but his cho-fen children. If you finde thefc things, re Joyce: For God hath revived in your foule an eternal! life^yea^, he will rcftore you to this temporaJl lifc,if it be good. The if fuesof death are with our God,anc

wha

what is ic for him to heale you being ficke, who did give to belee-vingperfons, their dead to life a-gaine,when it made for his glory > If nor,you know, a ficke body will notfearetodrinke that hisPhyfi-ciaodothtafte before him : Chrift hach rafted death before us; to de-liver us from the feare ofic: yea, you know chat your life is hid with God in Chrift (whoistherooteof us that beleeve on him) even as the life of a Tree, this Winter time, is bid in the roote of it. The Lord comfort you ia thefe things, and thus let mee for this time end*

12. Aicmtorys

DEarc S r , I thanke God, I doe remember you, as I am able, unto him, increasing him to ftand by you in all things,and finifh your courfe with comfort. Remember thefore-pafled experiences which you have had of his kindnefle and conftancy toward you: he willnot leave & forfcke you now you have

F 2 mod

A

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' ■L!J"-g-. ■

Mans extremityj Gods opportunity.

moftueedofhittw Men often, like tothefcSwallowe^willbe with us in Summer, but leave us in Winter. The Divell, when he hath drawnc bis into th^e briars,, will give them leave to iooke for themfelves: But God hath ever ftood neereft to his, when their exigencies havebeene greateft. Mans extremity is his opportunity. That which God hath done once for you, in fuftaining, quickningyou, quieting your fpi-ric, his peace,which pafletb all un-dcrftariding,keeping of ic^ that hee wiH doe every day unto you,if y oa will inforceyourfelfe toward him. It is no more paine to him to heipe trs, thanic isuntotheSunto lend light ro us. If we have in forne fits, found eaie by this or thar, wee know if wee come Into like cafe, howtohelpefcurfelves: it is wee fay* but doing fuch a thing, or taking ftich a matter : thus having once found in deadnefle,fiinting o: fpirir, quicknance and ftrength bj recourfctoourGodinChrift, anc

wrefUinj

The eye *f Fattbfees God invifibk.

wreftling with him, wee (hould know what to doe when fuch like ftateteturnethon us. Well Sir, a*-while,& for ever:The Lord ftreng-then uf,that though we be led into darknefle without Iighr, yet wee mayleaoeto him, and call on his name. Ifa child have his father by the hand,though be be in thedark, yet he is not afraid: fo is it wi thus, while by the eye of Faich wee fee chat invifible one at our righthand to fupport and (ave u?, I pray you commend me to my good friends a-bout you.Thoughl am called more on for writing, than my ftrengch can well afford,yet I cannot forget you overlong.NowIcomend you to the grace of that faithful! Shepherd, who will beare us when we are weary, ltrengchen us when weake, keep us againft the Wolfe, yea, notlofcus, but according to thewill of his Father, raifeus up at the laft day; to whom be glory forever: farewell,

Yours in Chriftianaffcdion^P.B. J F 3 13.O/J-

A Cbrijlian canfuR of bit promt ft.

tap

I

13. Ciiatwy.

MY beloved Friend, nowthei throng is gone; Co that neither we can excufc any longer our not inviting,t or you your not com. ming when you are called on. You know what words did pafle be twixt us,, farre be it that they (hould prove wind. I doe accom-plifliraineinrequeftingyou tovi-fic us, you fhall difcharge your prosrifc, when we in joy you pre-fcnt. We know that you have not wanted altogether intreacies to this porpofe: we come after preferring the lame fuitmore vehcmcntly 3 not quite out of hope to /peed: the la-teft Dog fbmetime taketh up the Hare. My wife will (if you be fo pleated) meet you at Ware, when you fet forward, that you may know with what devotion (he cn-rertaiaesyourcomming. All our waiea are in the hand of God, hee teacheth us to commit theoi to him, that they may be directed.

W<

\!n all out vans we nrnfl fear* God. I 119

Wc may go here and there,change aire and company, but the God of all confolaiion is hee from whofc eere mercy in his Chrift wee receive all our comfort : cheareful-nefle of heart is his gift to thofe chat arc good in his cycs.The Lord pin his fearc ki-our hearts, that wc may never depart from him leaving the way of his com wdements; and give us more and more his fcare before us,in all our waies. For it it be a fpot in feafts, to eateand drink without feare,as Iudt faith ^ fare it is likewifea fpot, in our journeyes. The firft lines, are to provoke you to come; thefe are to guide you io comming, that your way may be prolpcrous; which I wi(h you | from my heart, wich all oihcr fpi-rituall blcffings,for Chvifts (ake,ac-curled for us.

Write to us,when and how you will contrive your journey. Fare you well*

Yours in the Lord,

Pan I Baync. F 4 14. Dif-

!

?=*l

120

•mi

Concerning the education of&c.

\

14. Viffivaforj*

LOving -AT. A word in time^ is better than many out of feafon, when it is too late : I have talked with my wxfe 5 and I finde it true: Tim vident$cnUqHam ocnlus: two are better than one* My wife is in love very carefull of your weale, and for the party to which one might mod probably incline, her thoughts are not without reafon a-verfc. Firft, the education of Gentlewomen of that forr, doth teach them little to know, but gallancy in apparell,to call for fervice about therafeives. If they may come where tbey may have conforts to play a game at Maw while they are vacant from their attendance. Againe,for leeds of Rdigi-on,you cannot groundlyconjcfturc them in her, which istheprinci-pall thing you would fecure your felfeof: for good natures without Religion, are as we fty of the Di-vell, good onely while they arc pleafed, and when you found it ^^^ enough

\t

GodlyjeahnHeofourfdvesprofitable. I 121

enough ro kcepe any duty to God, with the help of a Religious yokefellow, how caii you conceive hopes this way, ifyouwancfuch a helper? Thirdly, her portion is but a little for your eftate and calling: God gave you matter of e. ftate equalling to hers, when you were many wa^es by many degrees unequalltoyourftlfe. Againejitis by fupplements of good will to be made up 3 which may occafion ferret courfts ofrccompence.Think ofthefe things: for though I pitty your condition, yet I vufti from my heart, there may be no more hattethanfpeede: {oft fire maketh fweeteft maulr. Labour to have your felfe in feare a id jealoufi?,and mark.' the fecrec fo»ly ofhearr,w ch makecb uspoatt over our mourning part before God, and linger after the houfe of laughter. Iffit ke bo* dies fhould lip onely, and kt awjy the bitter potion, calling for re. ftoratives, the diieafe fhould >tfur-thex aad further be cher.fljcd : (b

F 5 our I

)

»■*■

tl

a 2 2 \Love & hatred are not in our power.

our ficke foules, if they leave their wormewood-dnughc too timely which wee fhould take next our heart, wce.fhall mtfle a great furtherance vi our fbules health. I a-gaine often thinke,it is not beauty, bat Gods bleffiogywhich muft give you contentmew,and love and hatred are not in our power; if wee had our moneths mind ferved, we are fubjeft to grow into diflilcc with that wee fo highly defired, as the RotyofAmnon & Thamardoth wkneffe. Againe,ifyoufindcyour minde any thing impotently running hither and thither (2s the fpi-rit of man tnoweth the things of roan ) bee affraid of having the thing you (bdefirejeft it prove sa^he. Quales which ftancke in the momhes of them that lufted after them.. I pray you therefore, ftrive with your ownc foule for more godly fbrrow and wea-nednefic of-minde : Deliberate flewly, and then you fhall be able to accomplifh boldly, cspe&icg

frorof

From God a bleffing of thofe waies 1 hich you have comended co him, I have great bufinefle. 0\xcMe~ \fopoluans vifitation c5mcth fhorc-ly,and I am warned co preach, be-fides many other cccafions. Yet becaufe I love not after wifedome, I doe make way by force, to (end you in time a word by friendly admonition.

We doe with our beft hearts bid you farewell,.

15. ConWatorjt*

Si R, Your Letter came in the chiefeft of our harveft, fince the titTie* the firft weeke, you know our Carrier gocth nor, I cm no longer be wantirg to my duty fo farre^ as to leave your letter unanfwered. Thus I pafie to thatclaufe, touching your late trial!* I do defire to have (ome feeling ofyoureftate; and the Lord that kecpeth his, when they are almoft lo(t in themfelves, keep you in this and all other cemptations.Wc have

great

123

ii

124 \ Manybj-wms out of temptation^

great needeof God, to leadc us, in time of triall: there are many by-waies, at which our corruption and weakeneffe will be ready to (tart our • and but ondy one true way, which will bring us to fee a good iffae, in Gods feafon. Sometimes wee are in danger, as hath beene taught u$ t to fet light by Godscorre&ions, and play hide->bare with him; thinking well, if wee can ward offthefmartinany fa/hion * fometime we are impati-enr,outwardly and apparently kicking at the fpurre; like thefe plunging Horf^which will not indure their Rider : fometime inwardly andfccretly repimng and fretting, like thofe Horfes, which djgeft their choler,by biting their bridles. If wee neither defpife, nor impatiently rile againft the hand of God, yet our weakentfle is ready too a uch to rake to heart that which is our exercife, fo that our fpirit drooperh and fainteth- and this is worle, becauic it is commonly accompanied

W*mm*m

but one goo & way Jo agoodiffw*

^•'

tompanied wich a wilfull indifpofi-tion, which will not let us receive uch things, by which we might be rucly comforted: as in Iacob^ho would not be comforted, buc followed his fonne to the Grave, mourning- I doubt nor, buz God keepech you both from rhe former; I hope, from th'S latter alfo. Wee muii rake our correfrion,and humble our felves uader the fmart of it; but wee rauft looke to Chrift, chat he e would not let our faith, hope, and meckcnefT: of miade, be fha-ken. If God (hould have told you both; Twill give you two children, you ftaU bring them up fo long for mee, and I will rake them agahe; would you not have accredit ghdly? The event doth tell you no UQc s than if he had before-hand thus fpoken unto you, GodisthechUfe Father of all the Families in Heaven a .d Earth; we arc but fofter-paren?s to our owne children. When my lafl childe was taken to Gad, my good triend, our

Preacher,

125

mm

-*—

—^ —-^ — 1 1 MI^M II ' I I

^Motives to beare equally the

Preacher^ did fometime fhew mee many Motives,why I fhould bearc it equally.

Firft, TKat they, aaken thus fbone,are crowned through Ghrift, without having experience ot that fight,which roaketh us cry, Orai-ferable^&c.and thinke our lives often a burthen to us.

Secondly Jt is not love to them., when we are perfwaded, that God is their God, which maketh us grieve at their taking hence: it is felfe-love,or carnal] a ffeftion: For Chrift told his Difciples, If yee loved mejee would be glad,becaufe I gee 10 the Father. And what raeafure doe wee offer God, who can tend our children farre from us, where wee are never like to fee them againe, if they may doe well with man, and yet cannot well beare to have them taken out of fight by the Lord, though wee are pcrfwaded their fpirits are with him ? Wee muft Labour for fiich good hearts, as may not be content

per-

,

stai/£ */ *»r children.

■ »■

ce

•«

berforce to let him take, but may willingly yeeld, even our childrea ^if it were by fterificing them with our ownc bands) to him who hath not thought his only Begotten too dcare for us, but hath given him to death for our Takes. If God (hould have riven the Tree afander, I meane, fevered you one from another^ muft have been taken thankfully 5 but much more when hee •leaveththe Tree, and taketh but the ftuir, yea, but part of that, leaving the one halfe yec wkh you.

Thirdly,and Iaftly, Ic is a token wee felt not his love, nor received them not from his hand, as wee ought to have done, if wee (hould not thankfully give them backe to him. -^tf* receiving Samue/asa gift gotten by petition from God, did readily part with him to God againe; {b Abraham with his (ced, which by Faith in the Promife hee had obtained. I know wc are ready to think chele things are truc^ but a Parent-like afftttroncaoooteafily

fhake

i

j

1 ' •

We mufl lone Godbtttter tban 9 &c.

(bake hands with, and yeeld op things fo dearely beloved.lc is true indeed, that while we pleade love to our children, what unkindncfle do we bewray toward God; if my heart did not fo love them, I could give them thee ? Calmly to thinke on this, which yet is contained in that Exception above named ^were able to make one blufti, that his heart Ihould be Co cold in his love to God-ward, as not willingly to' pan with any thing it Iovech, ac Gods cill: alas, to yeeld that wee greatly care not for, is noCjodamzr-cy. Bur I hope,Gods love doth not make his hand grievous; neither would I have thus late written thus much,but that iris good to be provided againft all things to come. For as when fire catcheth, wee £e how farre iris gone, but know not where it will flay- even fo ic is, when tte£reofaffli#ion(in Which Faith is proved) is once kindled. The fecond meffenger told not hb ail his foricw at once: it is wife-dome

iome flili to provide for the fvorft, the bell will fave it fclfe.

L i5 -

\ J Y beloved Friend, ardChri-[VI ftiai Sifter, if I my ftlfe had )eeu a good Scribe,you (hould not lave been thus long unwritten to : My affl&iontoyourdeceafed Mo-her,who did rcquefi it at my hand, and the love I bareyour (elfe, would long fince haveinforeed it5 but my hand cannot doe,, what my heart would. Neverthelefle, feeling my telfe not like to live to fee your face,I have got the helpofanothers hand,to report what my heart doth ] fpeake unto you, out of that Christian love which bindcth us to con-fid er one another,and provoke one another to love. I m ay thanke God for thofe good things, which I know his grace hath done in you. For the confcionable reverence of your deceafed Parent, was of him, who writeth in \ he heart that com-manderaent of honouring the Parent,

130 DifeUions toftirre up our duties,&c .

" —» « tm 1 mi,

rent, as well as others, A grace which God^who workech it, hath promifed to crowne vvich much profperity. Other things alfoper-fwade me of your piety; bat God will teach you to know the things beflowed on you: neither are wee much to harpe on this ftri <g, un-kfle we were in conference aifured, that it were needfull to ftrengthen each other with fignes of a good eftatc; as the Phyfiria s doe on heartkfle Patients, with repeating good tokens of recovery. Yet we that are taught of him, to fee ought that his grace doth in us, muft bleffe him;ind Ganders by,who by a (pirit of difcerning obferve the fame.rouft joynewithusin thankt giving. I will leave therefore this matter, and take occaficn to ftirre you up to duty Co your heavenly Father^whom I know to have been dutifull of confeience to earthly. 1 Firft, you muft labour to know your God; and in Chrift^your mer-cifull Father: for we by.nature are

like

*

like runnagatechildren, who have never kept ncere their Parents houfe • or like the ProdigalI,which left his fathers houfe 3 and becooke him to Harlots: (bour hearts have left our God,and know nothing by narure, but the things of this world,with which we commie fpi-ri mall Harlotry. Now there is none by nature that feeke after God. But wee thatdoeinChrift, find him in part, muft more and more grow up, in theackaowlcd- ' gingof him.Whatagraceleflepart J would weconderane itiofor our felvcs, if we (hould not know our 1 Parents here (as by pride and heed-lefle rudencfie, (bme children will not) much more (hould wee be a-fhamed, not to take notice of our heavenly Father?Nay,we muft the more cry after him, the more blek fedneffe we know there is,in injoy-ingof him : as the children that taHethc (Weetiiefle of the loving Parent, cry when they fteme to be left. Butifycuaskehowyoumay

know?

I

132

How we may know God.

know ? I anfwer: Firft, you muft gee your eyes wiped, the eyes of yourminde: Secondly, you muft know where to feeke him. Our eyes arc (bre,and full of fcales: and therefore/ifmen becarefull to have the eyes oftheir body drefifed^yea, induce (harpe waters, rather than their fight fhould faile; fo much more muft weefceketoGod, for the Eye-falve of hisSpirir,the one-ly Clary that clcarethfickc fights : Yea, welcome Gods Affli&ions, which are his ftrong Waters, to rcftore our Seeing,

Now could you fee, and knew not where to finde him, you were never rhe better. Therefore you muft know this, that if you will feeke him,y ou muft looke at Ghrift his Sonne, in whom the Father is, for they are one. Wheo a childe is like tbe Parent, wee (ay, If you fee (uch a one, you fee his Father, for he is the fame up and downe as his Father was. But Chrift is liker the Father, than any childe the na-

rurall

• I M l I'll .

turall Parent. For the fclfe-fame All-feeing fpiritoall God, who in fellowftiip of his Perfon., hach a Souleand Body glorified, the fame Spirituall Nature is the Nature of the Father : as if the fame Soule and Body which is in you, were communicated with the perfbn of your childe* S^condly.as you feeke to know him more, fo you rauft feekc to love him and pleafe him in all things, being more fruicfull in ftrving him^than you have beene: And good reafon 3 Love is the wher-ftonc of Love. If you fhould fo love one., as to give your little Son to death for his fike, would you not thinke it an intolerab'e pare, not to be confidered with love a-gaine ? Yet God (b loved us, that bee gave his onely Begotten; that wee beleeving in him, fhouldnor perifh, btic have life erernall. Aid for onrc children', Do we not lodke, thowgh they be full of play when they are y oung,yet,that being better growne, they muft learne fomc

honed

»34

Levt to God tried by its rvorkfng.

t

honeft calling, which may do them good another day > So the Lord, though he have a gentle handover us, while wee are tender; yet doth oke, that wee afterwards (hould e morefruicfull and ferviceable to him, Ioh.12 2« The righteous are compared to Tnes; which, when firft planted, beavc few, but grow till they come co carry many branches, Now, if you would try your love,, you muft finde it out by its working. What contentment you take in that Pretence, which is to be had by Faith; what longing you have to be with God; what love to his tokens $ what love to children, and friends. As fcrexample: Loving your Husband above all men, there is none whofe pretence you care for,or take contenment in,like his. So faith the faithfull fbule to God; What have I in Heaven but thee ? What in Earth,in comparison of thee > Againe,U yourHuf-band were in feme other Country, how would you long for his re-

turne

Ejfe&s of out love to God*

*35

turne unco you, or that you might follow him ? So the loving foule to God, faith; Oh, who fball deliver mee from this body! Oh,ic is

beft for mee ro bs with Chritt! Shee would goe to him. I looke for the appearance of the great God,who (hail makemy body iike his glorious Body, by the Power which fubdueth all things. Ifcwo trucly loving were contrafte'd, would not every weeke ferae a yeere, till the Wedding > Wcc are by Faith ontra&ed to God, in Chrift: how fhould we long co fee our Marriage folemnized? Eadea-vour to pleafe him, grieve ifought crofle your loving Husband. A Letter from a friend, we love, and fee by ic: If we have a Token,how wckecpeic,aadarcgladofic? So the Word of God, which is his Letter, Oh! how glad is the foule, that loves the God of it ? I rejoyced in thy Sratutes, more than in all Wealth. Sothe Sicraments, which arc the Pledges of himfdfe to us,

thtfe

Wee loV9 not God as vpc ongkt.

thefe arc the love-tokens hee firn-dcth to us, while wee are abfent from him in the body. Laftly, by loving his Children, and friends. You loving your Husband, thinke his friends welcome, and love them. Could you thinke one loved you 3 and loved not your fonne? So they that love him that beget-teth, love him alfo whoisbegor-ten, i lob. 1 ) #1 Now thei\letusnot be falfe to our owne hearts, and wee may confeffe that wee want a great deale oflove to'our God .* ibr,when ere we glad at the hearty and rcjoyce in our God ? When do we long after his appearing ? Nay, God is faineto fmoake us forth of this World with many trialls, and yet wee will not arife, and come away in our affeftion. When are wee heartily joyfull to heare his voyce, and receive his tokens? When doe wee bufie our head to pleafe him ? and when doth it cut us at the heart, if hee be offended > Now then, if you iee you want ir,

what

•.a.

what muft you doc ? You muft fhame your owne heart within your felfe,and fay; What a wretch ami! If my heart could be glad of every ftrangerscomparand were dead within me, not joying in my Husbands preferice; were bufie a-bout other thing?; negligent to my Husband 5 lor ged for other men; never wifhed to fee hinij if abfent: whar a fhamefull part were this in me ? Yet thus ic is ? my fbule is, married 10 thee(Lord;) thouftadft J no Dowry with mc, but beggerie, and fpiriruall filthinctfe, yet thou boughteft mec ccare, and haft put mee in no leffe than Heaven, for my Joytiture • and yet loe, I can fiode a contencation, tod be ifierry at this or that earthly thing ; I can long to have eaichly matters which I lack; I can be carcfull how to pleafe roan, and be grieved, when ought doth erode his liking; but am lacking in them all, toward thee. Then feeing this, and how your heart is full ot Harlotry

G lo v c

Get love to God} and get every thing. > ' ' *' >

love to creatures, youmuftcryto God; Lord hejpemee, pare away this fclfe-love,andfalfe love to the creature, and make me love thee; Lord,draw me after chce,and IftalJ follow thee as toft. Aad ftrtngchen J your (clfe in faith, and God will I give it you: for this i^ his pro-mife, I wilicircumcife your hearts, ana make you to love mee with all your hearts: Get this, and you gee I every thing. This will make that which is irkefometothefl ft, be meateancf drinketoyou, andde-. lightfull. Is ??ot the Nurcery of the Ghilde, a homely pitcc of worke ? Yet, becaufe the Mother loveth if,though her fleepe be broken, and her hand foiled, fheeun-dergoethitgladly. Andnotonely doth it conftraine us, but mike us patient. What will not a wife wo-m^n beate, and pocket patiently ir< >m a Husband (he loveth ? Now one thing oiort I will warne you of, and end* and that is a good meaneof the former. Whilcftyou

live,

B*W"

liv^laarne to weanc yoa ielfe from the things of this world; lec him that buyeth, marriewb, &c. For hee who immoderately loveth the things of this world, as Pride,Pro-fir,and Pleafure,tbclove ofche Father is not ia hira. Shce that hath loved one man trucly,(he is fped,as we fay; (he can love no more Husband, Children, Poffeflions 5 much lefie the proud vanities and rio. tous Goflippings ofthefe Times. Asanhoneft Woman mu ft flyc the Stewes, Co muft wee not have our hearts (eenc among thefe things. And this is moreeafe tomyeafe-lefle flefh, that God gave me mean-neffe of minde, and negleft of fuch carnall courts, in which I might have had my (hare, that I wifh all rayChriftun friends may receive thac grace from him, which I try by experience to have fo precious effeft. TheLordkeepeyou.

G %

*7

Lo-

C*. iv

I^O

I

Chrift takes array the cmfe effinnt.

LOving N. I received your Let-tcrs ; in which,you fignifie the confomraation of that, which I wifh profperous.The ground of all profpcrity,isGods bleffing: with-cut which, every thing is a deadly | poiicn to us; whether it tafte bitterns croflcs; or fwcet,as the more fucceflefulliffues of things; whe* ther it kill with painfull gripings, aseviIJs;orcaft «fleepe, and move Iaughter,as thofe things do,which in themfelves are to be efteemed outward bkflings. The poifons fpirituall, for tafte and effect, carry noleffethan corporall. Now the ground of blefling in all things, is Jefus Chrift, our Redeemer, bearing our Cuife for us, (GaL%. 13.^) andfwallowmg our defeived Cup up,into an unfained bleffing.I hope the eye of your (bule Iooketh up to him, who was lifted upon the curled Croffe, to heale that Cur£, wherewith Sinne and the Divell, t bat old Serpent, have flung us. A •

gaine.

fVe tnuft[nbrnit to Godsyoake.

141

gaine, I doubt nor,but your Wives prayers (who is now departed)are on record in Hsaven, and your Sifters praye r s (who ftilllivah) are not in vaine before him, who is a God hearing prayer: Bothhav: wifhedyou blefiednefie, through Jefus Chrift, [ would have beene wivbyou before this Letter, but rhatGcdtuthletmy wives weak-nefleto be more than ordimry. We muft take up ourOofies,and when God bldJeth us yoake, hee is the wliett ^aa that yceld^fh his neck; moft willingly.This hath made me (lay hitherto; but the Lord eafing hishand 3 Irefumcmypurpofe,of fat Isfy bg your ^efire,and meane to follow my Letter at thehedes.The Lord make it profperous. You tell mee a loving Tale, of bringmgup your Wife, to enter her into my acquaintance. If you had no Brother at CAmbridgc, it were pity my Sifter (hould be no fooner a Wife, than a Widow.You know the Law of the firft yecre.

G 7 The

Chriflian Queries^ and

i

The God of Love give you holy love in him, and keepc the fire in, when xc is kindled. I hope I (hall never forget my Chriftian duty to you,of being a helper to your faith; it (hall go hard,when I help you not with a {hort Curry of matter to this purpofe. My Wife remembers you and her Sitter to God; and let my love reft with you, till God give me leave to fee you. Farewell.

18.

LOviug CguSg, I have « cold fpirir, who (hew thee no more love : but bcare with mee in this Winter of mine, and if ever the Son of Rjghteoufheflc be pleafed to make Summer with mc, no one, without my felfe, (ball have more intcreft in the fruits I then (hall be taken with. It may be, the thred of your life (hall be drawne out fo farre* as to fee thefe words prove workes; which the Lord hafter. How goeth the matter with your poore jfoule V how doth it get up ?

How/

■ *** « M mm*

Incentives to Devotion.

*43

How is ic made ready every morning? Howwalkethitalltheday, when it is once with the folemni-ty of Devotion difparched > Doth the eye of the foule wake without muter, like that heavic matter which in fome eyes and heads (coo much fluffed) is often decerned? You may know if ic be cleare; Firft, icwill keGodinhiiGhrift, through the glafle of his VVordj and it will at eafc hold waking before him. If you thus wake, you have the ftarc of me;my {hop-win-dowesare longer in opening;, than m: thioks I &e you in making rea-dy. Sometimes the m'ft of my ownedarkntffe, fomecimtsearth-[ ly humours do? (hoo r e into them; fbmetiraes a fpiricof flLrcber and fljch doth offer to cloie them; fontttimes clouds of fpiriruall darkneflfe doe over-caft them : fo that, though they arc waked, and inthcmfelvesiightforae, yet they fee nothing, by rcafbnofchatob (curiae which is without them

G 4 wner

i

1

Mansdulntjfc to kotwcffc.

0 11 mm^miv^m

wherewith they are iavironcd: as it is with a man that ficteth with his eyes wide open, in a Roome, where neither light of Sunne nor Candle commeth. Now, while a man is flving to Chrift, roget the inward cfirancflc of his fight cleared, (for be can make his Clay and Spittle heale them) while hceget-teth the diftillation of by-thoughi s flopped, by looking to him u ho unites our hearts to himfelfe, who worketh all our workes for ih; 1 while hce iecketh to that quick-ning Spirit, to fcatter his/lumber, and laboureth him, who is Light itfelfe, toexpell thofe excemall darknefics invtroninghimj while one man is tasked with this work, another, not thus mole fted, is rea-dy,andhathdifpatched. WelI,our God doth accept it for one of his fickefervants fore-noone workes, to fettle their clothes orderly a-bout them. I mention theft thiog?, to lend you fbme light; by which, you may better fee your privilege,

who

J»l ■ ————— — ■ T l^

TbtnktfHlnefe te Chrifl the, &c.

who are not forced tofpendyour ftrcngth in fuch a faftiion. Bat the man that is well waked, muft have moving, as well as fenfe returned. How doe the affe&ions of your heart foot into Chrift,in way of thankefulnefle, who hath led you ail your daies? who is that Prince, that makech peace in you; whofe fecrec 3 is the ftrengih of your heart, that it fiinteth not; whofe favour is chat Shield 3 which doth fo cover yointhat evills have no leave to aflaile you, muchleffc to prevaile againft you ? Is your Irart, in the confeiousunderftan-ding of any benefir,affcftiooate toward him ? Then you are truly a* wake, and ligh:fome, like to pafle thatday without toorouch we3r;-neffc, which is with 16 freQi a (pi* tic enured: then that Sttnm ofKigk* teoufnejfe hath got you up. For as a greater fire draw^th forth a lefler, and as the Sun bodily rifing daily over us,doth draw torth the fpirics of fcnie and movng, which are in

G 5 the

H5

i

m«r

'■ ■ ■■' I

t.^=

!

I46

The Souk** Ldvcr.

»=T J. ? !> '«»'■

the bodily creature; fo doth chat \ light and life of lirael, by his work,though not percei ved,draw forth this fyirituall morion of the Hie of God in us, whereby we did cerne him, and in thankefulnefle make towards him. When your foule is now awaked,what doth it w (h with, what doth ir put on > As weChriftians have boch guilt and defi rmed blot of fione, (owe have a daily laver, even bloud and water;for our Chrift came in bath, to teaebjthat he came not onely to make atonement for the guilt of finne, but doth alfocleanfeusby his Spirit from the fpot of corruption. Now then if you looke at that great God, asyourRigh-teoufiefle, by taich on his bLud, (lied with ieole of the curfe due to our finne; and if you looke to Chrift, wno isroadeof God your Sanftifier, to cleanft you from thole inherent fpo*s daily, then you have wafheu in the Fouuttine opened for lirad, acid are fo clean-

fed 1

m*f»

The Souks c B s atmtni and Armour.

fed (have you but once wafhed in this kindc) chat you (hall never be defiled throughout againc, as Chrift (peaketh, Neverth leffr, there muft be Raiment upoa tfar Sjule, yta 5 it muft be cbdwich compleat Armour, for it is com. pjfled with cuemies 5 and the life of n is a warfare. Now, when wee looke to Chrift by fairb,.as our SinftiScrand f,lvarion,(hen we are thus clothed : heisourSan&ifier, who muft bringalloor graces from one degree to anodicr> making that light of holinefle, that image of himfelfethe fecor d Adam^tov? upinuSj, as the light of ths morning, till it cometh to the ftrength^ taketh incteafe. Hce muft be our Viceroy, tread Satan under our feet, diflolve bis woiks* crufti the head of him for us,, hee muft frith the wc rke of his Grace with bis owne power. Well, when you are thus forward 5 how doth your fouk walkcjpuul.git felfc fortlrin.afti-oii? doihit gp limbing? djth it reft

and \

hl|

■ W ■ ■ '

•

148 \ Tbefottlesface>Chriji mends it.

and can goc no further, as weary? Doth ic feare it (hall not hold out > Is ic made fad, with wont of any thing? Many a good (bulc walketh thu$ 3 and puzzle them fo, that they cannot goe on freely 5 but 1 hope, no earthly lulls fill about your feer, It may be it is weary fometimes 3 and is feareful!, and is marie fid, through fome kinde of circum-ftance. WelMet us get conference; what painfulnefle, what weaii-nefle, what weakneffe* what fcarc doth attend us ? Our lpirits being or.ee poore ia the privity they have of thefe matters, fhall no fboner looke with the eye of faith to Chrift, bt.c the matter fhall be mended. Heeitisthatmakeththe lame to leape, likeaHinde; v;ho enbrgeththeheait, to run in the rac*of theConunctements. Lcoke toHiro,thefaithfull Shcpherd 5 who taketh up the weary Snecpc, that through feebleneffe can go no further : to Hinyo whom the casing of our eye is the renewing of our t facrgh,

ftrength.Againft feare of perfeve-ring, challenge him as theauthour and finiftier of your faitb/everent-lytdlhim, it is a piece of his Fa-tners will that he (hould not onely give you to believe, and his Spirit for a time, but that he fliould raifc younpat the laft day. hh % 6.$g. Finally, looke to your God, that hath (aid to ^Abraham and all be-letvingfodofhimj Walkc before me, IamGodA'l-fufficient. Tell him yon have nothing but him-felfe, in heaven nor yet in earth, in comparison of him, and he cannot but (apply with bimfelfe, every chingtoyou-

Thus the asking a queflion, which Idid not chinke of, wheal let pen to paper, hathdrawne me on to matter not intended. Icai-not now annexe the other, for my Ltttcf is km for. I have beene neither well this five weekes, nor yet ficke enough to mak* mce berter,

Th* Lord be our daily ftrength,

dircftion,

-1

» . »»■»

Kl .'—

■ l ll . l

»5°

L

Gods cbildrenfubjtEl tofick>iejfe.

dire&iorij blefling, comfort, and prote&ion for ever.

MYdearcFiicnd 3 and Brother, in him, whoisnotafeamed to call lis brethren,! cannot but fi-lutc you, and let you heare how it is with me: for I know, my lines cannot come to you more foone than welcome. I was fcarcc al'gh-tedfrcm my horfe, but anaguifh difrcrapcr did feizc oniric, aadfol* low me in manner of an HeSl'c^ towhichl have ahabicudr, even in my beft health. Befide, I have been troubled with fuch an fai^n* mation cf fome of thofe rntetiora vifara, that I cold not ftape two houie?, but extremity of inward heat* would awaken me. In which kind I went fome five wcekes, bu now I thanke God, my b dy, though a lif tie more becrete*}, is in f ch ttatc as formerly it hath bzene For my foule,! ftiilgooninyecrrs and monihsofiabour,accordinga my Lord hath aaeafored. I Kelt

filCi

\

The Chrifliant confaB.

151

fiich ignorance of God and all his waies, fo many yeeres coward me, fuch folly, which kcepeth me from taking any thing to heart, which refpe ftech God, or concernech my #He,fuch uncircumcifion of heart, which makcth me that I cannot be j holily poore and abjeft, though conlcious of innumerable motives, paft, prcfcnt, eminent, which might move me thereco: Laitly,I fedfe fuch a Selfe-fLffkkncy, as will not let me perceive what need I have or my God to be with mee, for quickning, ftrengthening,C€>m-fortifig dire&mg.profpcrrgofme in my courle, though this breath of our ooftrils,is not more neccfia-ryto the bing and continuing of this bodily life, than b his blcflcd prefence, to the caufing and maintaining of all our corner. Thcfe things doe renew their aflaulc on meeveryday,andnoiw;thfta .dlfg I renew daily my cud:vour a-gainftthtm, yet I caaoot recover i" ch fopply-or Grace, as fir.uH

r^ake

>5*

nm

Sinm is vreakgcdby degrees*

make mee walke more large this way. But hard teflons are not ea-fily learned.

Sometime finding fmall effeft, lam ready to thinke, my labour is in vaine^ but when I confide^ all is not in vaine, whbfe effeft doth not prefently appeare: fecdeislong time fo wne before harveft.Sscond-ly, ftrength fpirituall doth cxpell fpiritual corruption's ftrength na-turall ficke humors. Scrcng Imw:-rall, if it be in fulncfle, ic dorh fi-mul&fcmtl purge out that matter which is contrary to it: bat if ic be in mediocrity, it doch expell Co farre 5 that though ficke matter ftill remains 3 yet it is Iightened^and be-commcth more tolerable to nature. Neither is eating and drinking in vaiae,becaufe we cannot fo refrefh our £Ives,but that hunger will ftill reiurnc on us. Sometime the familiarity of U 9 doth make me ready topsffc by >c, not moved at all a-gainft it: even as things off^nfive to nature at firii, gcowbycuftome

lefle grievous. But I flie to GdcJj who hath promifed to put all enmity in us againfUhefecdeofthe Serp^nt,which wc find to remaine wkhjn u$; I fay tomyChr'ft, as thou doeft r^ach me this cupjikea cf^IIy dietdrinke, fomakcicwhol-feme to me. Sometime wcarincfle doth fjrprife mc: thenlthinkeof rfraeI,amoDgtt whofetemptations,

one was from the length of the way^even wear ineffe of wandnngt I lookc to Chrift, *nd pray him to ftrengthen me, that I may follow the MUrch, that I may follow him whithcrfcever hee leadeth. Then I thinke when are men weary (being refreftied with deep) to reftme their earthly affaires; I fay with my fclfe, for what doeft thou keep m<!> for what docft thou refrcfh mc > O my Shepherd,thou haft no other wooll nor milke from mce! Againe^ I confider how dangerous it is to intermix if wheal have the moft fervent indeavours, I finde it enough to walke weakely, what

would

J J4 Wt mnfl not faint at our dead»cjje.

would become of mee, were thefe aegle<3cd? Lord, inlarge my heart with thy ftrcngth, that I may differ hardfritp like a good Soaldier, without Shrinking at it. I thinke you know the like things in dead-nefl£, but feare nor, nor faint nor, though wee be to that life of his, like as cold water and dry afhes are to heat, in which naturally, heat can never be fixed, yet vhen our God hath proved our faith and pa* tlence, he, who callcth the things that are not, as if they were, hee who calleth light out of darkneife, will imprint in our foules, and make thefe things as fixed pofrk fions with us,whichnow like Iigh-tenings are not more forme mani-fcftedj than vaniftied: His forbearance is but till the fitted time for himetogiveit>andusto receive if; the Lord mike as, in the meane wh?le,of underftanding hearts.

We in outward things wifh to be cured rather Securely than speedily, neither would we have Summer

m*r i i Winter, for the Winrer is as neceflary for the rooting of things as the Summer to make things (hoot forth withfrutefmilingly.

YourainChriflianaffl&ioi, TjuI Bajne.

20. VttiUiry,

MYdeare Friend., the hearc-iay of your welfareis to me moft welcome. I was fbrry that my letter mif-carriedjbut there can be J no deft ft in any ioftrumeot, which doth not codtrefnb tlt&ionmfuprt-mi trtificu. If the fruit of our body prove abortive 3 we praifc him,how much more muft wee fmftifie his wife providence,when the like cafe falkth out but in a letter, tvhich is fuchabirchuf the minde, asm^y by a lecond conception be framed againc with advantag ? I did w^te vntoyou feme things concerri g myownecftatc, how Ifonndmy heart in my vifitacion, what was

my

my praftic^evenrocompaflT 4 thofe walls of darkneflewhichldilcer--ned in roy fclfe, and "ia filence and I reft to wait on my God for his fal-vation inthe downfall of them. I count it impertinenttorubupmy memory in regard of that, I this way difcouifed, though in the cir-cumftances Itbenufed, ic did be-feeme my condition, and would have rsliflied wdl co your undcr-ftanding. A ficond branch of my letter concerned your iw,md this uncomfortable deadneife which a-gaine you mention, the heads whereof I will labour to recall as I may, though I cannot reach that ftraine in which I found my felfc when I indited the former.

About this deadncfle of fpirit, I did confider two things. Firft,the reafbns for which God did let it hang about us. Secondly, the courfc wee were to take againft it. The Lord doth it for many good ends. 1, That it may be a (pur inciting us to goe forth to him, who

is

lets it bang about w.

is the quickning /piric, that thus wc might experimentally findcche quickning verrue of Chrift, who doth lighten our eycs,and bring as out of thcfe fits to fecle our /elves alive before him, could wee thirft, after the living God, did wee not (uffer thisdefed of life. Men feeke not thole things abroad, which they are full of at home. Hence it is, that when God will bring us to himfelfe, as the foundation of this orthatgood,whichhewouldcom-municace^heedoth follow us with experience of the contrary in our /elves, that being confeious how it ' is with us, wee might flic to him t who is A!l-(uffiden r . Agaioe, we I cannot experimentally know God to be in Chrift a quickning fpirir^ fhould we not feele an intercourfe j of his death, and a powerful! ex-Ipulfrgofit from his vertuewor-j king in us. The more often the Patient growing intopaine, iseafed byPhyficke,the more experimentally he teeth the Arc of the Phyfi-

cian,

'57

u

c an and benefit of Medicipe. Thirdly we have this remainder of de^tb, that wee may better confide of our naturalleftate, howofl our fclves we 4re wholly eftranged from the life of G ^d: for what we renwine in part, that we are wholly by nature.

Fourthly, that wee might the better hdpe others in this temptation.

Fifitly, that we might tafte cur life more fweerly, and preferve ic more carefully: we find with plea-fare t ha t we feeke with paine. Sixt-ly, that we may know, and teach others how they muft depend on God for the confidering and moving of their grace daily, as well forthe beingand firftproducing of it. Laftly, that we may be led mco the knowledge of our owne hearts, whether that worke is in them which will drive for life, as every thing that hath lite, will flrugglc to part with it, or whether the) will pafle it over hecdleflely anc

floih

, . , _ __ m

fljthfully. Ccruioly if wemarke the working of our fpirks, and courfe of God ia fiich an cvill hw, wee will learne ouc of ic manifold wifedome. Now for the courfc wee are to take, it ftantfeth* firft, inrefolving to encounter this dif-eafe,thenio pra&i fins that we may be cleared of ic: the Dive! I will be ready if &e ftirre this way to lerve a SuftrfedeaS) fbmetime by fugge-fting that the nature of this is no fuch thing as may not be borne, ic do'hnocwaftethe confcien^but fuch foolifh patients 3 who will not vementi tccurere mtrbo^ they at length are paid home with paine, fo much the more, by how much they have the longer delated. In the body, lecamannotexpelhhe fupcrfluity nature hath contraft.d, the quantity or acrimony of it will to incrcafe, thar he (hall be forced to come to it with more paine, or there will be bred on him fome painfull ficknt:flH. Let us ftrivc to expcll every fuch matter in our

160 I Sttansfuggeftfattsin deadnfjjiy&c .

(bules,we (hall find it true in foules as well as bodies, Retemio txcre-mtnwum eftfarens motbn

Secondly, it will be fuggeftcd^ why, ftriv* with itaswewill, it will returne: D tf we ceafc to eate daily and refrefh nature, becaufe huoger andfaiotneffedoe ftill returne upon us? Is it not a betuficto be eafed for the prefent, to keepe downean cnemy,to dothat which wee know will ac length bring to perfeft health, though wee cannot forth of hand be fully cured? Sometime wee rhinke, it is not well it (hould be thus, buc implcymeuts will not let mee turnc to k as I would, we could findc in heart to c-eale with it, but that wee cannot while it. Buc will a man not beat leifure to rake Phyficke for his body? what is worthy our time, if our foules life may not have it afforded? Againe, time is not loft which is (pent this way, for God doth attend the time wee (pend after confli&ingj with greater blct

fag,

1

\

g, and leavens the knowledge : gather, fo that it becommcth c&ionate andpra&icall, befide s wifedome whichistobelear-d 5 from obfervlng the working your foulc under fucha tempta-)u. Bat when you hare repelled ch ligatures, by which the Dill would hinder the will from folving refiftance, ia the next ( ace, you muft encounter this radly paffion by fuch a conftant mrfe as may free you from ir« he courfc ftandeth chiefly in a reefold pra&icc. For^i we fr ft pen and prepare matters,that the ediciue may carry them away ore eafi y* Medic nudum eft con~ fcUjion crudis,&c. So here you wft labour to hold your thoughts, id ponder upon thisevilI 3 confide-ngwhat it isinitfelfc, whatefc ft* ic hath for prefenr, what it ireatnethj fhould not grace pre-enc.

In the next place, you muft take owne the medicine; lay hold on/

H Cbrifc'

*£he prattice of refiftance

.,«.

Chrift your life and quicknance. Your third pra&ice muft be to take a walkc in feme words of pro-mile this way, which agitation of your foulcdoth ftirre up thefupcr-naturallheat of faith (as motion doth the naturall)by which means wee come to feele our medicine worke,Chrift (hewhimfelfc more and more effe&uall. To fet you downe In briefe an example; thus I concoft the thing, meditation preparing, Good Lord; what a ftatc is this* what a bed-rid difpoficion doth hang about me! were my body an apoplexy, were I dead but of onefide^t would go neere me: but to have my Ibule thus bcnummed, that I can neither find comfortable fenfe or motion in it toward things fpiricuall, how much more (hould itaflF.ftrae? what ever I fet upon, it is prefent with me 5 it maketh my \ duties as diftaftefull in themfcivcs to thee, as deaded drink to the fto-| mack: it kcepeth me from comfort for the prefent: and what doth it

not

cfdeadfuffe of (pint*

not threaten, if thy mercy fliould not prevent ? yea, it is Co much the more dangerous, by how much more connatnral],for I cannot take inthisfle^pe, and though k be (6 deadly, yet am no whit affrighted. 2. AIas,what (hall I doe? To thee I looke,, Lord, who bid ft us awake, and promifeft toightenour eyes from this mift of death, with which they are over-fliadowed, to thee who art the life and quickning fpi-Mt,to thee, in whom, as a rooc, my life is hid. How long (hall I live in fight, and complaine of darkneffe? Bow long (hall I be within thee he fountain of life, and feele death bcumberfomctome? Theftron-;er worketh on that which is weaker ,and doch aflimu ! ate it to it felfe. bhjdifplay thy ftrength,andmake lis death flie before thee from brth of thy m:mber. ^Movingof a$t!\ It is thy will our hearts hould live who fcekc thee, yea, hat wee (hould have life aboun-[antly, thou haft faid 3 comc to mee

H 2 and

Refinance ofdetdnefe offtirit.

■*

and your hearts (hall live,chou haft promiftd us f that we (hall (o dHoke of thy Spirhjthatirftiallfl >wfrom us abundantly. O ftrengchen mee, thou author and fiuifher of fakh,to hold thee the rocke, rill I fee theft waves of death, as v were, break* themfelves,and p*fle away.

In (I ch likepradUcel have often found this (badow of d ath lying before me, I havealwaies found a peaceable reft, expelling enlargement more confidently; when I have not found iteafing me for the prcftnt, yet it hath difpofed me to receive qoicknance afterward, as coflive bodies, though they have not alwaies ca£mcnt when they offer, yet the offer doth facilitate the courfe, and dilpofc the body toeaferaent a r rer.

Thus out of love, I have a little lent you my (elfc 3 the Lord bkffe us with that fpirit which prevai-leth : Tfae meane while I will de-fire that wee both may watch in prayer one for another.

Yours as his owne, T. B m

Be not over bdfiy to judge.

21

i*5

Sir, you may thinke mea grave rather, in whom all your kind* nefles are buried, than a thankfull ! friend^owhomwhofogivethjiel-lethdearely,chey fey,fo commodi-ous t d the donor the thiog pro vet h which Was freely beftowed* Ne-verthckfTe,your wifdomeand love will not, I dare fay, judge over baftily upon appearance,knowing well,thiit as there may be a (he w of good,yea,godlimfle, where there imotthefubftanceand power: fo there may be a lemblance of cvill, even of uathankfulnefle,where yet the vice k fclfe doth not harbour. Your Ncphewes laft vificingyou, was hid frommee, till about bed-time the night before he tooke his journey; affure your fclfe,I could not have bin privie to his purpoft, without fctting my pen co paper, though lam none of the forward^ about this errand. I doe remember all your love, fb doth he alfo who is moft apprehenfive of what is

H 3 done

■ ■ ■ * ———^i<» -

done to him in his children and members. They ufe in Spaim a powerfull /peech to this purpofe^ that rvhofo rvtpeth the childcs nofe, kffith the mothers cheeke: Co kindly naturall parents conftrue the homelieft offices done to their children: how then (hall not he accept of all fuch dutie as is done to him in his children, whofe love is ftch to his,that the wombe-love of the tendereft mother is farre inferiour. For my felfe, I cannot ftiewyou any thankcfull remembrance of you, better than by remembring you in thofe duties, which though they moft conceme us, yet we are moft fubjeft to be forgetful! in them. Worldly wifedorae doth teach men to fee the benefit of health and wealth, yea, to have fa-gacitic for feeing what neede they may come to: when wee have Co many good Husband seeing thefe outward things, and providing agaioft a raynie day, that no event

I may take them unprovided $ the Lord . - -

True grace the CkrijtiAns truewtltb.

—■——— ' » ■ ^

Lord make us wife, to fee the true

wealth and health of ourfpiritsfor the prefent,and to prepare for our comfort againft fuch times wherein the Lord fhall trie us. I will commune with you about thefe points^as God (hill enable. Men, who would gather an earthly treasure, worldly wealth, muft firft make fure that their Penny be good Silver; that the things which they deale in,be matters of worth: for counterfeit faife commodities heaped op, deferve not to be called wealth, or treafure: and what is the wifedome of heavenly Merchant but to feeke good Pcarles, right for their kinde • true Faith, fuch as purifieth the heart; true Repentance^ fuch as is accompanied with change in heartjincon-verfion ; true (an&ifying Grace 3 fuch as maketh the heart heneft ; true fruits of righteoufnelFe,fuch as are through the hclpe of Chrift to the glory of God ; thefc are things that make a man wealthie

H 4 in-

167

■^

True Gt*ct t thegrtaufi Riches,

ndeed; true Faicb, laying hold on j the unfearchable riches of Chrift, on all Gods (pcciall promifes ; which more enrich the fon'e that j gettcth them, than bonds of thousands doe perfons who pofltfle th*.m. True Repentance, it doth get an acquittance and full releafe from God of all our debts, and dor h make us no lefle happy,than a Ghiietwefi doth him who is ftb-}eft to great and dangerous accounts. That Grace which maketh the heart honeft, without bypocri-fie,that is no finall wealth: for ci-vill men doe reckon their Earnefts and Pledges lying in pawne, for fbmething, as part of their fub-ftarcc. Finally^thofe works which come from righteoufneffe, and are fincerelydircfted to Gods glory, cheyareatreafure,as ic is wealth to have done fuch a thing amongft men, to which great honour and living is adjudged. Even as money fetcheth every earthly thiog that heart can defirc, fo chefc arc currant]

rant Coyne in Heaven 3 even to procure what-evcr wee can wi(h, chac is good for as: when Chrift faw but one of thefe in that woman of C*n*an • O woman (faith hee) great is thy faith, be it to thee a* thou art pleated. Wherefore, deare Sir, labour for thefe precious things : all is not Gold that glifters • let us imitate the wife of this world: the money they hoord up to make a treafcre, they will fee it (hall be right Bullion 0 yea, that it (hall not be clipped and waftied, but of full weight: finally, that it (hall have the Kings infeription. Let us lookc that our Grace be right, without any pre-domirate finne intermedled,which would be as a Flye in our fwcec oyntments : lee us take care our workes be good for the ebjeft, be full, as though, notcomming byhalfcs from us : Finally, that they be fincere, having the glory of God as an inferipcion ftamped upon them from our hearts j thus ,

Hy thcy\

■^*

—

thty (hall not deceive us, but ftand with us, as a treafure invaluable. A fccond thing I marke in getting earthly f reafures is, that there ir.uft be a dayly diligent adding unto, and augmenting that wherewith wefirft t* gan.Though a man hath good Gold and Silver by hinv, yec till ht hath it in fome quamlrie, he is not faid to be rich, or to have treafure ftored by him. Thus it is with uf j K$me was *$t built in a day y men are all their dayes in getting together a more corr.plcat weafure. Thus wee Chriftiars, though from otr fir ft belet ving we havtr Uiifearchablc riches, yer,if we fptak comparatively, we have not that wealth and contaminate treafure, which we come afterwards unto, when now we have well run on in that race which is ict before us Whtrefv re give diligence to en* create yoi*r Graces., which Gcd of j mercy haih begun*. Let the righre-J'ous- be more righteous, the holy more holy* If out Grace bv true,

there

ourfiock and treafim of Grace.

' there will be a further accefie of Grace: Wealth goetfa to wealth, even as ftones do to a ftone-heape, already mounted. Wherefore,krus every day draw one Line this way: let us coune that an unprofitable day, wherein wee have not fome-thing laboured with our hearts for the fuller apprehenfion of our finncs dwelling in us ; that fopo-vertie of fpirk may dwell moreand more in us, wherein wee have not fomewhat enfurced our hearts to ftayt hem/elves on the Lord and his precious promifes: wherein wee have not called on our fouIcs,to put themfdves forth in more thankfull acknowledgement of that love, faichfulnefle^&parience^which we fee doe follow us day by day. Finally, wherein we gec not fome-thing done, which maybc^sa go d foundation, and further our reckoning, when we (hall be accountant to God, We muft be ro mi rewea-ricof this, than eanhly husbands are of rduming tfuir .bufijefles.:

the\

172 l Tke more grace t9ehave y tbc^&c.

I

i

the fweetenefle and peace of thole waies {hould afftd us. Looke as men at firft, while poverty doth pinch chcm,they feeke wealth with much grkfe and anxiety: but when once they ba*e gotten well about them - then, fleftied with the fruit oftheir former la bour,they make a play oi following the Worlds to the increafe oftheir fabftamce: for ihey fteke not fo much out of indigency, as out of complacency and delight which they finde in their poffeffions. Thus ^eeChriftianfr, when once wee have attained fbme fiift-fruitsthiswayjWcfhould with delight follow on to perfe&ion. A third praftice,by which worldly wealth commeth in,!s a carefull retaining what is once gotten. Good EenfSjWith little or no expencCjarc the fureft Alcban^y that ever wa$ found out: whereas let incomings bernever (b large, one back-dore

r

o: looked vnto, may bring the > hole hi ufeto mine* Wherefore wee mud sake. he*de oft all fich

things)

We mufi notUvifb out our Grace.

"73

things which wafte and excinguifli Grace in a manner, giving place to finne, (b as to yeeld to it, and lye downe under it.Ocherwife.he that ftumblts,and eomes not down^gets ground : the trippings of Gods children y in which they recover therafelves, bring them on with greater advantage. Againe, wee rruft take heed of dead companies, of formall performances,which are aPealc to Bed-ward. Finally, of running our felvcs into projefts of worldly pompe and profits, which are the common Choakc-weed of Grace. Whofe heart (almoft)have not thefe Thornes over-growne ? Thus you fee how we may by the Woi Id learne a way to thrive in the beft Wealth. Now I come to the Utter point of preparation,where* by we may be able to Rand in the houreof Tryall. In this 1 will be (horcer,my Pen being run fonh be* yond my purpofe in the former. The Io igcft dayes have night at -length entring: yea, there is no

winde

P reparation for TrjAlsjhownectffary,

————~~———— »t—n 1 . ■> i

windc which may not blow raine, if God be (b pleafcd. Eflates which have thelongeft periods ofprofpe-ritie, are ac length exercifed$ and there is no condition fo fureand peaceable, but may turne tempe-ftuous on the (udden , (hould not God be more gracious. Wherefore let us be appointed and fitted for every event. Preparing for warre, maintainerh peace: wearing a weapon , makes not us the (boner fee on r nay,it prevents thisdangcr,and makes us readie to defend our felve$> when at any time vve are at (ailed. Now this praftifc chkfely ftandech in thefe three ihings.Firrt, in getting a fpirituall fagc*citie,by which our fogies doe difcern afore-hand, what kiude of events ihey may be fubjret unto, in this-va!e of teare** Nacure by inflin&giveth untort albnabk creatures j faculty, which makcth themaforchan&ap-prehe five of -hit which ?s ready I toer iuf. The w fedome which is from «Jteve,.imkexh. the Lards

children!

and in what tt confifis*

children (enliblc ia like kinde,thac as lob) Co they in their greaccft calme fore-fee how Gods hand may. change for theexercifeof them. 1 he fecond pare of praftice (hn-deth in this,in learning by due con-fiderationSjhow warning we arein wifaome, and weake inftrergth, which maketh able to ftand wh*n God trieth.The third thing is flying to God by faith, and holding him, as who hath beene, is, and muft be forever of all our filvation, looking :o Cbrift the author and fini-fherof our faith, who hath received th»s commandement of his Father, thathtflruld not onclycall us,« ni bring us into fta'6 of grace, but alfo raik us up at th. lalt day, who is thar greatGjd our Savioi.r, that will kcepe his f om every evill worke, to his heavenly king* dome. Now, when wee thus hano G >djgairilfalUvtnis,weartLi * ftroog Tower, wherein the gates of ficll (hillnoi be abL c<» hu/t u$ 7 aiuch kflc topjivuilc agan.ft us.

GvHl

Cbrijt§ur Rock*.

God doth let us co fchoole onto the Conies, that of them wee might learne the Leflbns : They are a weake timorous creature; yet being coifcious of their weakaefle, they worke themfelvcs Holds in the EarthwardBurrowes, whereto they may retire for ftielter; and though they goe forth (bmetimes, yet ever and anon they resume to their fi»lds. Oh, fb muft wee, in confeitnee of our weakenefle, by faiih worke our felves into the Rocke, Chrift Ieftis: and though (bmetimes wee are abroad, as it were, in many other matters, yet wecmuft flill returne, and renew our beleefe toward him.

22.

MY beloved Friend,and Cferi-Itian Brother, I am glad to hearc of your fafe returne. If my Sonne g*>c on, fetiing his heart to get Learning, I will fet my heart, co procure him all due encouragement in (o good a courfe. Concerning^

-»•

cernmg the change of youreftate, icis v\irh our fbules as with our bo-d?es 3 every Age hath ft vtrall Di£ cafes; and we fe,asourdifpofinons and the feafons vary, (o th^reisa fucceflion of divers ficknefcs accordingly. Our new birth being conceived &bred in faith, perfeft-ly formed in hoiinefie, we are ufu-ally firft afliiled in that which is firft in nature begotten in us: I huveieldome rparked temptation in both thefe kinds at once • God fo mercifully difpofing, that two Co great Sickntflfcs (hould not be found coroplica te: For who could ftand under them, combined ? A-1 gaine,Cholercan hardly cauft any hot kind officknefle^while there is ftore of blood and watrifli humors bridling of it: for thele are frtnam bith: foourunholineflVjWhilewe arc cxercifed with doubtings of Gods Grace, cannot move; as when all is quiet, this very trouble caufing my Faith-cocfl ftj i x fit-num concupifcewtU and doth perfe

inter-!

interrupt the a&, though it cannot expell the habic being considered by it fclfe. Wherefore though you fhdc the winde gone ioto another corner, your fpiritu-all nakedneflc now moft to moleft you: and chough you together observe, that you arc not Co apprc-hen five of fo great an evill as you ought, yet have you no caufe, bu: to goe on peaceably, looking to that Prince of peace,whowill give thee peace of (an&ification in the quiet fruit of righteoufhefle, as he hath the peace of juftification, which fometimes in fome degree you wanted. For the firft,we muft make account our exercifes will run in a circle, the ending of one will begin another, till God hath by many things fufficientiy proved us, that in our latter ends hee may doe us good. Fi(her-men muft not make dainty of cold water d nor Chtiftians to meete with thefe cafes, SecondIy,you muft marke how gently God doth briog on your

triall

triall this way, making you rather co difcover defcft and want of righteoufhcffe, than tofeelethofc lawcsof evilj,and movings of grievous fins, the root whereof do?h fticke in your nature. To want health,and doeverynaruralla&ion feebly ,is a griefe,but tofcele (harpe j fitsoffome paiitull diftafe^is more grievous, ThirdIy,(hould wee not be trained thus by experience to fee that we are as Tobu & Bobu^ a true Spirituall Chaos of emptinefleand deformity, we could not be poore J in fpirir, follow Christ as 1 who is made of G o d our facfti-fication, that is> our fanftifier: we could not comfort others in this ftate, nor taftc our owne happi-reffe fweete in that degree,whero in wee {hall doe after thefc things experienced of us. Now though you doe not fecle this myfterie, and rake it to heart as you defire, yet this doth but further open our defeft, that wee may feeke an-fwerably to be fupplied. We are

not

not more empty of grace, than by nature careleffc to have any: wee would let it lie as a refufe thing, (hould not God infpire us with new defires, to fceke after ir. A-gaine, as a footfh carelefncffe, fo a ipirituall fl3th pofleflcth us, that I caufcth us to be content a little better with cafe, than plenty, which commeth with any great travell. But what of this? When 1 fee it, I tell it all to God, fui g to him, chat the more I fee mifery abounding, the more his mercy may abound alfo. I looke to him, who as he hath called me to fan&i-fication with an operative calling, Co he muft bring me to that happy eftate,as who is Iehovab^my fcnai-fiir. I learne in a word,this worke will never goe forward,(houId not God in mee, as he hath begun it, Co go on in ic,fin&ifying me thorow-ouc. Againe,though I love to fearch unco the quicke, yet there is (bme reafon, why hatred and griefe (hould not fo move in this eftate,

as

"lis bard for w to btteourdefetts,

as when iiufull paflions come co ftirrc in out members,aud Jeade us captive. For,looke as nature, while fuch matter doth but in ftire degree caufe a C<3tkexie,zndm*ke her w orkc feebly and imperft&ly in all fhe wotketh • Nature, I fay, is not Co fenfible here,nor duth not btftirre her fclfir, as when fom^ a-cute ficknefle doth heavily afflift: (b it is tyen with grace in the foule; i: cannot be in that meafureappre-henfive in this ftate, wherein it rather £ dtth it felfe toLckefome degrees of health it would have, than to be infe&ed with intolerable ficknefle. B Jt the truth is, let Gone doe what it will, wee cannot hate it of our ftlves: bur,as by nature wee love our (elves; fo^ that finfiill image, which is by nature propagated in us.S jme Sjiiits have found this; who having been mo-Ieftcd many yeeres with fome cor-ruptions,ncverthele(T- have found, that at fome times they have not ,beene able to looke toward them J with

Enmity fofiHtte^riu'd from flmfi,

with difpleafure. I had thought, never cockering mother could take that at a chUdes hand, which wee put up and (uffer from our Iufts: but withall, I have learned to fee that promife 3 and hold Chrift to thatpurpofc; I will put enmitie (faith God) betwecne thy feed and the feed of the woman ; betwixt Chrift, and that life of his in all his member^ and the multitude of re* probates, and that life of Saran, (for finnc may be called his image) which is notoncly in them who are his feed, but in os alfo, till by Chrift it be fubdued: fliauldnot God blow up his grace fo farre^ we could not feele enmitie againft

i

this feed of fiane,which Satan hath fowed in us. Wherefore be not carefull in any thing 3 but that there creepe not upon you a defp;-fing of leflfcr things : for, if little things be not dealt wich,God will make greater looke in, which will caufe us more exercife. Happie is that man who doth deale with things

> .« . « ————*^—■^«——« ... ^

things betirae, labouring to fecle them grievous, looking to Chrift his helperagainft them. That man is a ftrange Chriftian,what-cver he may thinke , though his ftrengch may be affli&ed that bee cannot feeleic great; yet vires afflift* and vhes frofirata arc much different. Againe, he (hall fape much dif. eafemcntj by his timely refiftance. Let any man of great ftrcngth have fome fupeifluitie of matter tending to ficknefle, he doth betime ex-pell it by imperccivable fweates, or other eafic wayes : Lefler ftreogth letteth it lye, till it bee ponderous, and of acrimonie, and (bme way more grievoufly offen-deth 3 and then it doth more paine-fully upward and downe-ward drive it forth.The weakeft ftrengch of all, feelcs it fclfc opprcfled, and till hoi pen by fome medicine, cannot cxpell, and then doth ic) pak;efqlly, and in part oaely: the more ffrength , the fooncr is a thing contrarie to nature expelled;

!•"

III ~ 1 I II H II 1

led; the fooner, the lefle painfully al *aics. Well, the Carrier doth ftay for my Letter, I muft be fhort.

Yours in brotherly ■'ffc&ion, Paul Bync.

23. Hwtttoiy.

MY loving Friend, though 1 winter not faft by you, as heretofore, yet I have you in re, cnembrance; for,ea ten bread fhould not be forgotten, I thinke my felfe rruch indebted to you /or che love I received from you • and though I muft itill ride behirde, I meane, come fhort, in regard of r quiwll, yet I will n^t be wanting in thank-full confeffing of kindoeffe /bre-paflvd. It is with thankefulnefle as with love, it will creepewhn it cannot goe. 1 hope you neglcft not your beft Merchandize, the feeking chofe Pearles which Will make your (bule rich before<3>d. That Marchant,World-ward, is in

foall

i - ■ ■■ * —

fm*li account:, who neither hath ware nor rmney; in like eftate are Chriftians, who trading in the militant Church, have no part nor portion in the heavenly and true treaftrc. It is a thing full of confu-fion,and very unhappy to be without earthly pofleffions. Hence it \% 9 that men in this taking, they hang downc the head, when they have no meanes whereby to coropafle the earchly good which they defire, whereis others who have them, carry their nofes into the wind, have all that heart can wifh, they lofe no loigtng.Thus what (hail be their confufion who arc not rich in faith & if pentance,cheon;ycurrant coyre which doth goe with God, and fetch down what-ev r eaven-ly bleffi g wee can defire. Wherefore in lieu of all your love, let me exhort you^firftjto labor more and more for true grace. Secondly, to ufe it and increafe it daily. Thirdly ,to watch againft all furfi things, whichmay (like a backe dore) im-

I paire

&is

Ttne Gr4ce 9 true Ricbe/.

1 payre and wafted it. For the firft • 'the wife Merchant doth feeke for' good pearks, fuch as are right in their kinde: an In&ian Diamond & a Briftiw Scone lookealike,but differ rnnch in the Iudgmcnt of acun1 ning Lapidift; No man can gather a trcafure, vnleffe hee feleft that Which is precious:a rnafle ofcoun-ters are not to be counted a trca-i fure.Seeke then that knowledge of Chrift which maymake you put off the old manj fo to know God as a child knoweth his father, with an affc&iue property which doth v-J , nite the heart to him: fo to beleeue; {chat you may feeleyour heart purged through faith, fo to doe euery Worke of righteoufneffe, that yea nay feele your felfe enabled to it through Chrift, and finde that your foule dire&s it to Gods glory: for as that mony onely is treafure* which is of right Bullion , that is goodMetall, and hath the Kings infcripiion : So that worke onely Will make a true Treafure

and

:

ind good foundation, Which pro cecdethfrom Chrift, dwelling in vs through fai t£, and is dire&ed to GOD, by Which meanes it is [lamped as ic were, with his Image. For diefecond: As yoy muft get thefe things (b you muft tradewich rhera,feeke their increafe: he chat husbands his ftocke* (hall haue more. Men are long gatherers before they haue got them a treafure. So Chriftians, though on the firft beleeuing they rcceiue vnfearch* able riches, yet there treafure is to be confummate and pcrfe&ed from day to day.Tbere is a double thirft 8c defire after wealth in the world; the one commeth from indigency, as a man in extreme drought Jon-get h for drinke, and in extreme want, for fbmething which might helpehira. There is another de-fire^ which commeth from complacency, from pleasure felt in that wee haue obtained; thus a man, when third is in fome degree quenched % defireth to drinke

12 agaiae

1

Labour f$rgrowth in <jr*ce.

I

gaine; thus a poore man, having n^w gorten fomc thing well abos 1 him, yet would faine have a mon flufh, full eftatc: better is ftill better : this defire then mutt be in al Chriflian^: the goodnefle of the things they have tafted,rauft affefl them with a further defire of in-creafing in them. I would have you be as I have feene fbme good husbands in dead time, when (tarings faile, they count the day loft in which they have had no takings. Account that day as loft, wherein you have not gotten feme more fenft of fin,whercin your faith hath not fomething more enforced it fclfe to lay hold on God and his precious promifcs, wherein fbme good thing is not done, which may ft and as a good foundation, whereon the conscience may relye, as an undoubted tcftimony of faving be-liefe* Laftly, take heede of that which may quench your affeftion to God, as dead company, who can never (peak, nor have the language

of

Tdk<s httdofvehat may impair grace.

i%9

i oi Canaan: inordinate and doable diligence about earthly things. More perifh with prepofterous following of la wfull things 3 than doe by unlawfull courfes. Sofc fands fwallow more fhips, than hard rocks fplit aftnd :r. Licituftrimtu omnes. Eating, drinkiag,building 5 matter of marriage^the world (ball be drowned in thete, whenChrift comes to jjdgemen:. Ufe all good meanes doc wich-drawing your felfe from them. Difafing meanes quenchcthgtace^ as with-holding faell queocheth fire. Weed out of your heart all fucb things, as like a choake-weede fpring up and fnao-ther better devotions. Men grow rich not onely by getting, but by faying and holding together that they have gotten. Great getcings with little fpendings, is the raoft approved Alchymie : {hould one hive never fach takings, if one (hould filch out N his gaine as it came in, hee would not increafc in fubftance. Thus Chriftians

£0 A Letter ef cemfert agahft the

nauftlookethe Diucll robbethem not by any meanes, of any grace which they haue obtained, that fo their fbnles may thriue in their heavenly eftate. But my letter fwelleth beyond my intendment, and I cannot hold backc my pen from affording you any thing, whom I haue found Co forward in fliewing rae kindneffe* j

24 I

Sifter M. my wife and I held it mecte to figoifie both, onr remembrance of you, whom your token hath teftifiednot to bee vn-mindfull of vs both, for when my wife is thought on, I thinke then I am not quite forgotten. You will be defirous to know how my wife and her place agreerh. Concerning which lenforme you thus much, that both ofv^inre* gard of all circomftances^do think o&r Hue? well fallen; if we fhould (peake otherwife, wee fhould not Qn&ifiehim in our hearts ^ who is mercifull to vs, Neuerthe-

left

fbrrtws that attend every condition.

e(Te,youmuft not tbinke chat we aue fuch a condition, in which no forrows in the flefh and other-wife,arenotintermcddkd,weIiue not in that earthly paradife, but ourliuesarefb made comfortable through Godsgrace,that we know there remaincth yet a further reft for his people : the which thera-therl «iention 3 tbat you (hould not thinkc rauch/if in your condition, al thingsfuicenotwithyourdcfire, b.caufe that this is no other thing, thanwherwith your brethren and lifters euery where conflict There is a fweate of the brow on euery calling, a wearifbm vanity on euery condition^only the grace ofi3od in Ohrift doth difpence wif h much which might iuftly befall vs and doth ftrenthen vs to beare that comfortably in time,which his fatherly witedome fha'.l not haue rc-leafed. And becaufe I know not in what argument to fpeakc more for your comfort, I will profecute in a few lines this argume ic

I4 Ic

. *!■ >

RPIfcj (jod makes carnatL

It pleafeth God to let us find fbme conditions not fie f) well upon us as heretofore they have done, ye^ the lame things waxe tedious, which have beene .delightfull, for our love, our hatred, the ordering of our affeftions, is not in our power,butdorh vary according to Gods pleafurc. Now when we ob-fcrvc fuch things grow on u$j> wee muftbethinkeus ofchecauk, for that is the next way to difcerne how our griefe muft be cured No^ thus it is with us, that the comfort of our eft ate doth refulc more from carnall cafement often, and contentments in ir, than from the grace of God in Chrift Iefus 3 {hed into the heart by meanes of it. Now God feeing this, doth fo work,that things pleafant in them-felves becomediftaftefoll to us, to the end that wee might feeke more vnto him, and take up all our contentment in him, that thus^hee our Creator & Redeemer,might be the reft of our hearts, not the creature.

contentments difttfiefnlltQ us.

111

Our hearts arc full of fecret Idola-1 try above meafure : Now then, when God doth unfettle our hearts from a contentment, which is carnal], hee doth it but to leade us to reach our content ation by true god-linefle. What a fweet life is it^ that when a man is not troubled with defires of this World, with griefe*, or deluded with the joyes of ir 5 which are like the crackling of thornes under a pot,as foone quenched as kindled ? But if wegrow to defire things heavenly, to fteke diligently the things which are a-bove, this defire will take off the edge of other that are worldly. If wee learne to rejoyce in Chrilt Jo fuSj it will kill his falft joy,the end whereof is heavinefle. If we grieve for our finsaccording to thatfPeep* f*r y tut fimef, yt daughter ef It* rufaUmlt will drownc earthly for-rowcSjthit they (ball be as nothing with us. Grow up in chef- things > and I may truely fay, you (hall have a kingdeme in your felfe.

u i

I A ktur concerning the comunicants.

\ I am bold vponfo fro j11 acquaintance^© exhort you in thefe things a duty which wee arc bound to as Chriftians, where occafion doth require it. I might write further to youtbut I rather flint my fclfe than roue vnccrtaindy. If J could know how to performe anc ffice ofChri* ftun louetoyou,Iwould ftudy rhe cafe but it fhouldbee performed. My wife doth remember herfelfe vito you. Your friendes are well with vs. Thus in hafle I take my Icauc, wjfhing that the peace of God which p-fltth rnderttaiiding may keepe your heart vmo the end and in the end*

L Eft your halting fhouldrurne forth hurtfully to you and otheis, I write more fpedily. Youasketwoqaefti)ns; The fir ft about the communicants duties; the fecoad about kneeling. The firft, whether you may receiuc with one who for want of skill,

0*1

' ' m w iki i i

■ ■ 1 m w i-

Duties txurnall and kfltUtng.

*95

or will, is no preaching Miirfter. To which I a-nfwer in c wo confi-derations; firft, if he bee able to preach but will not, ic is no qucfti* on :fordefe& in qualification, not inexcrcifc, breedeth doubc of mens calling and authority. A. gaine, the extrciie of preaching is not neceffary in the Miniftcrto the being of a Sacrament, but re-quifite only to the well-bebg and greater fruit of it. If tht Minifter be not able to preach,the doubt is much augmented ;ibr God,icfee-methjdothdifinabkhim, heethat carethnotfor knowing, God re-ic&etbhiraas noPruft, Hof4 3. Secondly, All Chrifts MfaiiAers muft teach and baptize, &c. Mat. 28 Thirdly,it !$ counted Ieroboamt fi reco fet upvileinfofficienr one% iKing 15. 33. Fourthly, Tnty are commended that fold th< ir inheritance $, and left fuch Priefts. Fifrly, They have no calling from God, and therefore are not author ri it dwuhhuly thiegs.

Anfvt.

\

*^***

1

A*fe>. Motwithftanding thefe ard kch like, this Idcubc not is the truth ot God: Firft d that the Sacramentall a&ions of ungifted Minifters arc effeftuall to fuch as faithfully receive them. Secondly, that we may fecke and receive the Sacrament at their hands. Thefe two conclufionsmuft be proved, and the contrary arguments fuif-fied: and Co the fecond queftion in his order reiblved. That thefe anions are authentic*!! when performed^ is thus confirmed $ Firft, Au-gufiim proveth that Herecickes fa-craments (in his Booke dt B*p. lib.t.cap. iojareeffcftaalljwhere we may rcafon as to the k(fer,thac unlearned mens aftions have validity. Secondly, weefhouldallin companion call in quellioi our Chriftendomes,which is abfardity. Thirdly, as the deed of one in Ma-giftratv, (b the deed ofone/» Mi-nifterio; though hee be not Vfqnc-qua que legitimes Minifier 3 is au-» tbcnticail, hath his validities The

ficood

fecond conclulnnis morecontro-verfall $ for wee allow the Papifts Baptifme when adminirtred, yet will not allow the feeing ofit:ne-verthekfle this is true, that people may fecke and take facramencaU aftions from unlearned men; the reafonis, becaufe we have right to aske them, and {hey not without the calling of God, have authority to difpenie them. The firft you doubt not, the fecond you would fee confirmed, for it is thought they are oncly mans Mintfters.

An\x9. They are called by men, bat not without the over-ruling ftroke of God in this which is done by man. Thus Saul and hrobotm thefirft, were called by men: Sj that Godfaith,Ha/;8.3. Thejft »p Kings^and made n t him ofconnfeU ; yet Gud faith againe, in the 13. of I Hof.lL Htgwethtrnthtfe Kings in hi* wratb^ndtookl them <tn>aj tn i?}d>gnjtion.htfine,vjhcn God tel-leth u%frr- $.ReJ;ent 3 I nil! give joh Pafior r afttr r*J m*c heart. He doth

feemc

1^8 Wt m*y communicate with nn gifted

■»■•«,

feeme to infinuatc chac hce had given them the other, though in dif-pleasure : for though the men arc not (ucb in whom he is pleafed,yet they are here and there placed^ ac-cording to his pleafare. You will lay, what, are they giucn in vengeance^ how can we iookc for any good from them?

Anfw So in iudgement,tbat yet God remembicth mercy for his, which he wil reach forth Ly them. So tyrants are Gods fcourges, yet God rfghteth fome by their regiment : for Tyranny is better than Anarchic. Suppofe then:The Lord Chauncelloor of Englanci^he matt be for his qualification a man well feen in the Lawcs, able to (cntence whatfbevercaufes are brought into Chancery: he nraft againe feale all matters^fbr hekeepeth the Signet. Say fecondly, the Kingfliould fet or let one occupie the place that knew not tbeLaw,who would paff?" the Seale likewi(e here or thi a Idle warrantabiy:wouldyou

now,

Miniftmjtt not with Papijlt.

*99

..*•■

now in thethitd place having the grant of any thing from his High~ neffe, refafrto Ice him put to the Kings fealc, becaufe he w s ignorant^ would give the (ealc furae-times when his Maiefty would have it denyed ? Like is your cafe. But why may not we feck* dwelling arnongft Papifts, to have our children baptized with them ?

An[w .Becaufe they are not one-ly ignorant, but mainraine reall I-dohtry,likc the Calves of Dan and Bethel, from which wee have com-iB<ndcment to fcparate. Conclude then,* hat you may come and fcekc the Sacrament at the hand of an unlearned Mmifter, Take heed o r (ucbfuggcftion*by which the counterfeit angels of light would fi bven Church s, and fling whole Pari(hes out ac the windowes. Now to rcfclve your cbie&ion. Thofc whorp God threatoeth to cafhier, their aftions which they pcrfonne,may not be fought for: the progofuion is fullc ; for bis

threat-

*sss9*

200 Wctnay receive of ungtfudMinifters,

threatning is not a prefent degrading, dif-inabliDg rhem in that they could doe 3 but a menace of future evill in Gods time, for chat they ought to have done 5 but could not. To Jeroboams fa£k. Thofe who ate by the fin of men entred, their aftioos may not be taken benefit of.

i/info. Falfe againe.The Kings of 7/r4e/thus entred, yet one might holily have taken the benefit of ju-ftice under them. Hee that fhould be never fo did*£licall, yet if he be not according to S c , Pauls Canon^ heentreth by fin : but would you makequeftionto hearehim, once in office, being well gifced 1 To the third, All Chrifts Minifters muft teach, and therefore whom hee fends he enables thereunto.

Anfw. Falfc •IbJeffe undcrftcod with limitation, all fent ofChrift according to his heart, out of favour, fully qualified, or wee mutt take teaching in a very large ftnft. To the 4. Wee may not Separate

from 1

K*eeli*g UvpfnUin the aU ofo&c.

from every unlearned man when he is no reall Idolater. To the fife is anfwered above. Thefecondisof ltffe moment, I will not difpure ic: onelythis. When there is no apparent fcandallj you may kneele : Latent things which cannot with morall certainty be prefumed,muft not hinder us. My rcafon 5 Firft, ic is a geftare fanft ificd of God, to be ufed in his fervicc. Secondly, ic is notunbefeeming a Feaftcr, when our joymuft be mingled with reverent trembling. Thirdly, it neither is an occafion, nor by participation Idolatry: kneeling never bred bread-worflhip. And our Doctrine of the Sacraraenr, knowDe to all the world, doth free ns from fu/pition of adoration in it. Attend ycurminiftefy, and hold the Lord Jefus to fan&ifie you daily. Let nothing weaken you in your worke^ the beginning whereof was fo joy-full to you. I doubt not but thefe are the truth; if I knewtwenth fcruples I could not anfwer, yet

would

would I be of this iudgmenr. I like not forgery which vpon every want dHraerobreth andcurteth off; n&r iuch meddling in crazie bodies which doth vtterly ouerwhrlme them-holy quiet willheale morein thefe cafes chan renfurous motion.} Farewell

SYR, I cannot but be ready vpon all occafions to faluteyou, whom God hath by fo many good offices indeared to me.My defire to God i$,that your (bule may pro fper 5 that yoa may be kept in thele euill times, wherein darknefle and lofts of ignorance abound, likeco the Lampe which (hined in the fmoaky furnace,Iike to the bright ftarre which fhiued in the midft of darkenes.Now that we may doe this, we mufteuer renew our care of keeping our felties vnfpotted from the wicked and powerleflc conuer facion of others Like as an enill ayre by little and little alters i the nature and temperature of bo-1 dy

Ukcftarrcs in&arkgeffc.

70}

dy, and breedes a difea ie: fe the corrupt fafhion ofcucry age doth rub vpon us its infection, abating the beat, and eclipfiog the light: of grace in vsjif we be not more caucelous,and in an holy fufpicion of our infirmities, hang on him who keepeth his from all euils. TbeLordgiuevs that loue which may make vs more fiudiousofhis glory,the more we fee ir obfeured by others.Thatis a right fparke of hcauenly grace, which by occaGon offinoef likcasit wasin r Z>4*#^and hremit) groweth to be more fer-uent and zealious for Gods honor. Second Iy,to(keepe our del ighc) we muft frequent communion wi'h the children of light.Awtfake light ioyning with another, becommeth fttongerrfb our grace,while ic affo-ciacethitftlfewiththe grace in o-thcrs, taketh ircreafe. Like as a plane which is fee in a kindly foile profpereth for that reafon : fo a Chriftian thugrowtth vp among them whoaretruely Chriftian in

chat!

/"

204 Cotnunion wttb the Sams hclpfnU.

.- u

thatregard,proves the holier man. It is admirable how fb great and caliamana$S c # Pii«/j fliould finde and feel^'f) great neceflky of communion wth the Saints, but chat | thegreactft faith is mottoppofice ro prefumption, and therefore the iurtheft off from neglefting any oicanes which conduce to that it hath believed. I am fure ic may teach us that we had neede to light our candle,and kind le our fire with our neigbours, even to increafe our faicb,and fire our affeft ions one with the pretence of another. Now (till it is to be remembred, that it is not (6 much your bodily pre-fence, as your fpiritual! ufe one of another rfiat is availeable this way; when wee (hew what God hath done for us,how our foules are carried on, when with the bucket of wifedomej wee can draw forth to our ufe the waters of Gnfce, which God hath derived from himfelfc into the hearts of our brethren. That is good Communion, wherein

Extrcifc of grace, humifies theJhu[e>

ia is found fbroc interchangeable communication of thing* fpiritu-all. Thirdly, to keepe our bright-nefle, we muftexercifr our graces. A? the body takcth more reftiog than ftirring 5 flceping than waking; as glittering msttalls lo(e their b ightneffe, and contraft ruftineflc whea they are not ufed r fb it is with our fbules ; let exercife be oeglefted, their light will be dimmed, they will foone grow to fome imbecillitie and fickenefle. Every day draw fome line this way, let us awaken our repentance, ftirre up our faith, to carry fome promife into the fceret of our hearts.

If wee be like the btlfie Ant, daily doing (although but a little at I onct) wee (hall finde (lore to our comfort, when the winter of ten-tation (hall approach. This excrci-fing is fr 5 which will prefcrveus with wholefome appetite, and hunger after all good meanes I whereby our foulesarecberiftied.

Thefe

205

1

■i

Thefe labouring men are as f iimd as a Roche, hungry as hnn-ters,whcreas (cdentary Hues are of (mall appet i te,and crazie conft icu-tion. Thus ic is with Chriftians fuch who exercife noc themfelues , ftirring vp the diuine heate^they are indefferent men whether they partake in helps both publike and priuate, which God hath ordained to increafedeuotion;but the well excrcifed Chriftiaa hath o-ther affections.

Thus much I thought good to write, exhorting you in theie things, which I doubt not but you endevour in your mcafure. I thank you for all the p o ore you baue rc-licued at my motion. I commend my felk to the good Gentlewoman yoar Wife,and both of you, with allyours,tothe Lord,

26

MYloningfriendjIwas at the fitft ofcen perfwaded, that God would for a time fet me out of hand, and truft me with my accu-

ftomed

How vn m*y have pedcc in winkle.

207

ftomed liberty ,bucoften defeature which myhope fuffred,did coneft in time that lightnefle of beliefe. Now it fo gocchwith me, thatl am like to continue here, or not far off all this fummer,f or forae things have broken forth in rnce, which will not/offer my farre travaile : which I muft feeke hclpe for be-time, becaule I know my flefh to bee hard of healing. What eafe fbould I have, had I learned the true ftrokcin bearing the yoake of my God, had I wifflome to lay circun fhnces to heart, had I poverty of fpirir,emptying mce of all confidence in my felfe, & common courfes, had I confident depen-daoce onGod my foleSaviour,then (honld I havehad peace in the mid ft of troubles, and light in darkenes. But I fiadc folly to abound in me, fecret pride, hardnefTe of heart, a fpiritualldrunkenncflfc, which fce-lcth no blowes, flying, falfe confidence?; what not of this nature? I traiic my weapons about them,

as

as the walls of hell, expe&ingirJI lilence, and reit their downe-fall from heaven.

I looke for better times though greater troubles in the flefli, thanj hitherto I have knowne : I fee it mu^ be in.heali ^g finne, which fal-lech out in healing Come bodily difc eafes, the party muft be kept Co low, that he muft be tatttkm non confctlufinedia^bzCoiszfpnng of better blood can be procured. In labouring to purge out fin., the life of grace muftfuffer fuch things as bring it exceeding low, yea, to a Vdiquium ofcen^ before a new fpring of that heavenly life can be obtained. I thanke God in Chrift, fuftentation Ihave^and fbme little ftrength, fuavides fpiricuall I cafte not any. But inded I often tell my felfe, Phyfick purgative and rcftau-rati veare not to be taken at one and the fame time, yea, it were to wi(h (offering without differing, if wee would Co admit forrowes • as that wee woald together feele them ) drow-

and then God willfirengthcx it.

, uf ■!— ■ * ~ ——^—~~*

drowned of lpiricuall coniblatioo. The divinity refted ere the bead fuffercd : Co in the members. The Lord be our ftrengch and comfort. If wee want courage and ftr&igth, weemuft looke to him, to whom whofb lx)keth,rer.ewe!h ftrengch. Who ftrengehenetfa his, (b that they can doe every thing, who ftrengthenech them in the inner man, to long fufferance wi:h joy-fulntffe. O lee us in conference of all weaknefle clalpe the rocke of Hrael, and leame ofthofc Conies, w^ake and wife,who worke them-felves holds wichin the earth, wherein they are fife. When the Apoftles had received this (pint of! flrengtb, they nude a play of their fufkcings.Even as in bodily'things thefe ftrong-boaed hardy porters, will make a fporc of bearing fach burdens, which a weake body would tremble to touchy Now Chrift 3 on whom the fpirlt ofwifc-dome and ftreogth rcfteth^increaft j onrunioa and comunion with him.

K bo<*{

209

\

A

Wee PiMjtfcekg after the kjngdome of

\

*7<

HO w happy Sir, arc the Lords children, who if they be occe his Favorites, hee will love them to the end, and chough for their finne he chaften them, yec will hee never remove his mercy from them. What is their happi-nefle vvho have received a King-dome that cannot be fhaken? When I obferve how thefe earthly thirgs vvheele abour,thcn mcthinke3 how happy that n?an i?,whofe hearc and hope is in that God with whom there is no fhadow of change : wherfore let «e flir yon up to feek after the Kingdome of God more and more* Heire*, the necrcr they come to ripe age, and fo to their inhcritance^the more their longing and defire is after them. And fire, they fay the neerericcotrmcth to that regie n which is the proper place of ir, the fafter it moveth: fo (hould it be with'u*, whofe

age

Goimorcatdmore, andkow*

211

age is now ripe, (o that wee arc I neerer our falvation, than when' we firft beleeved : Co (hould it be wicb our (parke of Grace, which God-hath kindled in us, the ncerer it comes co heaven, it fhould move thitherward with great fervency, yea, in our greateft delights, our hearts (hould be excited towards thofe joyes which there we (hall enjoy : when our prifbn hath (uch content as wee ofcen take, what (hall wee fi ide prepared in our Pa-radife, where we mall live for ever with Chrift that true tree of lift! Now, the labour of a Ghriftian ftandeth chiefely in theft things. Firft, hee mutt lay up thofe free promifes God hath made hi© in Chrift, as which are the ground of his Title to heaven, that as men carefully boxc up evidences, and coppies by which they can (hew their juft Title to the thing earthly, fb (hould we theft promifes in our heart, by which the hea« venly inheritance is ftaled to ns.

K 2 Second-

mm

212 i We way^and ought tofecure ourjdvts

j Secondly, we muft ftrive to enter jour poflkflion, by condoling a courfeof Chriftianvertues, J >yn-ing with faich vercue., with ic knowlcdgejtemperance,&c.while wee get a large entrance into that heavenly kingdome,, 2 Pet. 1.10. That looke as Iftael, the more they did fubdue the C^naanitu ^thc furcher they were poflcflcd of C*-**«*^ fo the more we briDg under all earthy lufts, the more we enter that: heavenly Cawa??, the more wee come into trae reft^begunne in hoIijnefTe, confiimmate in glory* Thirdly, v/ee muft labour to ft-cure our felves in this fhtc wee poflefic. God would not make us happy* if wee might not be ftre flill to hold it, which though in earthly things we cannot, for they be tranfitory, and if they would a-bide^ wee want lealesof our lives to abide with rhem, yet vvee may. in heavenly thing?, bccaisic they are eternaU, (hall not fade, and Chrift hath undertaken to fceepe

us

f — nans.

of the ktngdome of Heaven.

,— . ,—.

us unto them. This is my Fathers

will, that I (hould raifeyou up at

the laft day. So certainly therefore

as hee hath called us, juftified us,

and fanftified us; fo certainly will

he^ doe this other part of his of.

ficc afligned him by God hi? Fa- J

i ther, yc3, Gcd will kec'pe us to his

: heavenly kingdome, as hec fauh^

; and none thall take us out of our

1 Fathers hands, he is ftrongrr than

j all, faith in thefe will fue ou-t a

ine, as ic were, and give us quiet 1 | pofleflbn againft all chat can op-pofe u?.

Well, the Lord be with your fplrits,and give you h your mca-

fore the comfort of theft points.

18.

LOvlng Brother, I did receive your Letter which doth certi-fic me of matters, in which 1 take good contentment. To beginn-with the laft; I am glad you have done fo kinde an office to your

K S-fter; 1

3*3

Again ft overmueb tvorldlj care.

Sifter; it (hall furcheryour ovvne reckonings when yon cDme robe accountant to God. I am glad like-wife, chat you know yourlfrcall griefc (o well,and can lay your finger where it (marts; and I am joy* ed in your refo'ution which God giveth you of fluki og off this which prtffeth yon downe. I thought co have had a letter laying your rcturne next Terme, buc delay brcedcth danger, and vacation time is more free for thoughts, chan when every rams cafe craveth entrance : and in thefe contentions my fecond thought biddech race write prefently, though Ie(J^ exi&ly and fully. Your rcfolut:-on is a good figne that God, who hath freed your mi ode to a fettled purpofe againft it, will give you ic\ time performance alfb. Bjtyou mufttake heed that your refolutr-on be fuch as is gromvled oncly in Gods ftrengch, who in his Orift nuft diffolve this Worke of the Divell, and it raid bz accompanied

f

Ktfolntion againft worldly cars

215

nied with the conference of your owne wcakneflT*, who are (bid under (uch finne; the wifdome of I whole foule, by nature brcom-ratth altogether earthly; andlaft-Iy, with consideration, what ftreng'h the earthly objrfts and your propenfity and inclination this way have to oppofe you: for thefe will make you poore in fpiric, and have no confidence in yourfclfe^ but make Chrift your C jptaine (who hach overcome the World) all your hope • and if wee come not thu 5 to fight, we fn ill be forced to recoile onrfoor^ were our qjarrdl as jjft as Ifiaelj a-gain't thofe of Ben j will. Now that you may fee how llrong m evill this i?, you mull confider with whit forces it is intrenched, what fpiriruall things there be that doe bicke this infirmity; the which is the rather to be obferved, becahfe the rlgbt methoJ of healing,requi~ reththat we find outthecaufesof the malady. Now this double dili- K_4 gent j^

- x^A* fa / . ^* - ■■

21(5

*

0#f&* fa begreunded.

gene carefulneflfe, fpringeth from a threefold head : firftfrorodiflruft in Gods care,which is ever over us for good. When one hath greru* friends, which cheyarekoowneto leancco, we (ay of cheri^ Such neqd co take no caic, they know fuch and fiich williee to them; on the contrary, come toonethatkiow* eth no end of coiling and caring, aske him, Why will you thus tire your felfe out ? H: will fay,1 malt needs doe it, I have none but rny felfetocruftco : fo CWft folio w-ech his Dilciples cirefulacfle to this dore» their unbsiiefo, which did not lee them confiJer our hea-1 venly Father cared for them. Secondly, theft cares cone from a falfe preemption of ftlfe-fuffi;ien-cy in our ownc courts, as if wee by our owne diligence could build the houfe : For, were a mm per-fwaded that the bleflhg of G jd were all in all, h^e would ply chit fare firft,and with little joy would ■ undertake anychhg; till heeftw I

God

Ctufes of overmuch worldly care . 217

God witneifiog to him by his Spirit, that-he would bewichhimto bkffehim. This makethChrift cell his Difciples,they could not with all care make a haire white or blackc; infinuacing this difeafe I point ar. I know we will not fay this; but no more will any covetous man , chat hee makech his money his God; hee knoweth it is earth, and hee accounts of it as it is: but oar deeds fpeakethat often, which our tongues would deny* Thirdly, from an overvaluing of earthly things, and underpri-fiog of heavenly, we come to be fo carcfull in the one, and fo rctch-leflliy affc&ed in theother,wc b«-ing like children who make account of a Pearc or an Apple more than of all thehoufebcfile. Nbw having fouad the caufes and rcotes of this tvill, you may difcerne it is as cafie alcucft to (hake off your ulic, as to be rid of this infirmity: which I if sake n©: to mike you refiitiKunicfl/, but to nuke you

K <; take

j

-*~m-

ii

Remedies thereof.

take him with you, who only re-maineth viftorious. In the next place, you tnuft labour to remove theft caufeSj aad the effeft will ceafe; Say to your felfe, Lord,that I {hould be of fo little faith to thee; thou biddeft mee in nothing be careful!, but reft in thee; but I find a heart chat will not reft in thee, but be for it felfe.H ive I not found thee true and mercifull above all I could aske orthfoke> How is it then chat I ftiould lend thee lb little credit? Who will notcondemne that wretched -Abaz* Ef&y 7,whc<* thou didft fcrid him a meffige, and

' bid him be fecure in chee$ put it backe, hee would make fere for himfelfc? But alas, ? when thou fiyeft no lefle to u% we (upon the matter) doe aa leffe than hee. A-gaiae D wha: abomination isthis> that my heart fhouldj »aving thee, reft in fuch courfes Which icfelfe imigtaethanddevifech? I fee the Divell his word is proved toorrnej

1 hec faidp wee (hould be like Gods 5

which

Con federations dtjwafive from

.which as it h fclfein rcipe&ofdi-v'nc qualities refembling our God, Co is ic true in regard of our finfu, T l ufurpacion: for we take our owns courfe as if wee were All-fuffi:ienc to our ftlve?, not needing any higher power: and what an inor-dinacy is this,that my foulefhould be thus turned earth ward,thinking on tfufe things which are earthly and tranficory, with litdethought of thole which arc*heavcnJy and eternall > we piccy that want of wit in civill courfe, which raaketh the mindcrunnc on babies, but never thinkeon ought fubftantiall: bat what is thisdcK &kffe lamentable, which makcth me to ffc in my mi id things belonging to this life, f:l-dome mufing on thofc which arc everlafting? Thus when you hsve pondred the wrctchedncflc of ir, youmuft thtnke on your utter inability to mend the matter, by ob-ierving how deepe your heart is ;ic in unbeliefe, chat you can tooQcr cruft to any thing man fe*

enreth

21

' I

overmuch wotUj carf A

_.

_•!■

curcth you in, than that God pco-mifeth. Againe, hownaturallitis to you to plot and contf ivc affaires, and reft in your ownc confutations, as if your good were in your owne hand- by marking, finally, how dcepely you arc bewitched with theie things pre(ent 3 how potently they work upon your mind, .by reafen of the affinity that is betwixt them and your underftan-ding, being become earthly. In the third place, you rnuft looke to Ghrift toheIpeyourunbelicfc,by taking it away, and (lengthening your Taith, that you may give him glory5 by fettingyour reft orely downe on this, that hee careth for you; and pray him to circumcife your hearr, and pare away that Sclfe-confidence, that you may j have no traft h the fLfh #t but make. his care over you, all your rejoy-cing; yea, pray him tocrucifieall theie outward things to yoo, that j chey may not be Co powerful! upen t

you* laihefe things you muftfok j

low !

»"■" !» W » ■ II

' «" i f >»«PW»W»P

Chrift- the Author &finifber rf*&c.

!» — ■ ^ ——— * ii 1 ' «-^

low Chrift, for hee is the Author ( and fhifher of ouriaich; he is che true Pi'uft by whom wc have cit-curacifion, not made with hands, which hee hath ieaied in ourBip-tifme; for the water is afeale of Chrifis blood applyedCo us, and ot that Spiric of his, which is pcured into our hearts, through the meric of his bloudf, to the in-tent ic m<ght abolifb our corrupti-on,and create in us the life of grace. Chrift crucified, finally, dothk'.ll the power of this world to us, and ©ur corrupt inclination to ic, and ihe things of ic: thusendcvourl g to remove the roote and caufe of your fickneflc, the griefc it felfe will n ore eafily be cured. To come then in a word to ic,fir(t, remember how ic doth worke upon you, and what a wofull thing ii 19 to have the minde iaoruinatcly feared, with retaining thought of I this nature ; for firft, how greatly oe thefe hinder you in th« belt j things? Ic is che common choake-

weede.

53

22 2 Tht da get ofwirmnh vpottdly can.

weede, which like as pie doth by the oake, (6 it fockech thefapof Grace from the heart, andmaketh it unfruitful!. Aground in which filver Mines are fonnd,i$ commonly barren every other way; but it is ccrtaine* a heart in which veincs r unne of world ly cares, is al waies too fruitlefle in duties towards Gcd. Againej bow dangerous is this? For it is to be feared left r t erufperatc God, and fomakehim leave you to your felfe, and withdraw his care over you : if we di£ cerne fuch as will put no truft in us; but love to (land upon their owne ground, we give them good leave: a$contrarily,thc more wee fee our (elves trufted to, the more our fidelity is careful! for them that ftay upon us; thus is it with our heavely Father. Againe,you muft aggravate this inordinacy of cares in your folk, from this eir-. cumftatiee; if I were never fo

needy, thii diftrafling care could aotbe warranted; but when God

hach

'Such blefled mje beyond that ( could have asked^ then ftill to be in farther thought^ h^w inexcu-fable is ic > If a poore man fteale, icisafharae; but for a rich man co play the thiefe, ic is monftrous: Cares diftrafting, and not retting on things prefenc, are a fpirituall theft before God. A?aine. chinke how mKerable this is : fay one (houldthruftyour face and bodily fight into the dirt, and hold ic downe there char you cojIJ no: lookeuptotheSunne,Fifmiraenr 3 the Trees and Fiel&, & c. were not this a wofull condition? O fach is the ftare of a fettle, whole eye and thought is thruft do *ne intothefe earthly objc&s, and fe held in them 3 that it cannot lookeupto confider the Sunne of righteouf-nefle IefusChriftj nor the heavenly things which arc given us of God: thus then appreheding the mtftry of it, lookeantoChrift, pray him cofaveyou, who is that Ie&s that fayeth his people from guile and

power

'

Tray to Cbrijitgainjiit.

»■% m ■ ■ — i»

!

power of fin -from this fin lb hurtful to the prefcnt growth in Grace, fo dangerousto provoke yoar God againft yon^foill befecming you to whom God hath expreffed fuch bounty, fo full of wvetchedneiTe. Remember he hach faid, Hold m^ the truthjlwillfet you free; feare not 3 1 have ovtr-come the world. Agiine, you muft pray him that he would make ycu able to be heavenly mindcd 3 and think upon heavenly things. True it is, our minds naturally have no joy this way 3 fiad no rclifli in fuch thoughts; but we (hall doe all things inChrift that ftrengtheneth us: Contraries muft be cured with con r rarics,the more you get to tafte heavenly things beftovved on you, the more thefe fliall grow out of requeft, and draw to an end. It will be good for you when fuch thoughts feize on you, to confider of your owne infirmity after this manner- O Lofd,how is my mindc throwne downc from Heaven to Eatih ?

Hrnv

^erfwafive Meditations*

225

How doc fuch thoughts prevent ' m:,and come before I would have

them?How eafily do f continue in I thera t How clofe doe they cleave unto me? Let meethinkeof thee/ thy Grace, my ftue after death ; and hardly willchefe enter: foorjc they vanifh.aad while I have them in my thought, (carce halfe of me is 11 th?m. L )rdj, ins chinVes I am like the wretched worni 1 in ths Gofpelij whj was held of a Tpiric eighceene yeere3, thit(h:e coulinocIjjksuptoheiven.YoJ I (hill fi 1 Ji fuch msdicatio 1 not in vaine, when yoa are realy cob: ] tranfported, for ic will cveaksn th: retime of then, and difpofe yju b >ch to feeke and receive th: cure of this evill fron yoar Gji aad Siviour. Tne PnyScians in hx\* kinie of unfeemjly onvaiiiDis, Wi(hch it th j Patient (hxildbo'ce ,onhimfeIfeinagla(Tc, which will help him to drive the more, when he flnll fee his ownc defotmUy : ba: I fee my L:ccer will grow

be-

■-

to heavenly mindedmjfc.

;

beyond the due quantity of it; wherefore I end, defiring you to follow your good purpofe, and not to lye under your infirmity with any pretence. Wee fbme-times give way to inordinate cares, not meaning to continue them, but to fittfe things onely in order, that wee may be free from thero: but the flefh will not hea'e flefb, neither will being a while diflraftingly careful), ever heale diftra&ingcare; you (hall quench the fire with wood,affbone as^fione with yeelding to it. Againe X will doc this bat till, &£ This is as much as if one would leape into the Thames, and fjy, I w^ll caft my (clfeinto the water, but only till I be knee dcepe; were not this ridiculous? Well Brother,the Lord deliver you from every evill ft3re; abd if you will ever be a good husband, and have all things continue and profper, be fore you win his favour, by prefenringyour diligent duty in Chrifthisfivour>

in

;jin whofe hand is all your good, ojyea, the g :>od of yollr wife, chii-ifdren, and childrcos children for revcr.

Yours in brotherly aflfc&ion, Paul Bajne.

1$.

LOviig Brother, you would thinke me haply liketothofe creatures which fl ;epe over all the Winter, fliouid I but continnefi-lent till the Summer were encred. The truth is, I have beene very wearifh the raoft ofthe dm : fiice I Gw you^ but m/ condition is fuch, iri will not fuffer my minde to reft, were I never fo free of b;> Jily infirmities, aid fecuhr cue?, which doe (onetimes looke into mee, cfnugh not mjch diftirbe m^e. Taily,ic doth cake up rn7 ftfeng: 1 !, tog^cftrength where wich to wal't

I

tro'.n m >rning to nig it, waiting on my G jds fil vacion without m n

mMi

king

I

228 The troubled Chrifliam refuge.

king haft. The Prince of peace is my refoge, who as hee hath bis time of making heavie, fo he will jreturne and comfort in the multitude of his mercies. Thcfe things I w?ite not fo much for my Apologia, as for your admiration and in-ftructton a thatyou may confidcr of your own cftatc,and examine your* peace; that if you find it to be true and found, your thankes may be ; redoubled for fo great a benefit, I which others want, which paffeth undetftanding : that if other wife it prove deceitful!, you may yet make Are worke, and let it aright, while the day ofgrace is continued to you. The Divell circurnventeth many by nothing more,t han by laU ling them afikep in fuch a reft, as I will prove to refHefie ffnart, if it be not by repentant courfes inter-irupted. A maa may have peace I from not ftirring and moving his ? corruptions. TheDiven,wefay,is J quiet, if he be pleafed; difeafe not fin, you {hall feele little of it: fiich

VeceitfuBPeace,andJinfuHSecurity. ] 229

is the peace of a body, which is, though not ficke, yet in an ill ha-bite,andftate tending to Gckneffe; ic is quiet, till fomethng be taken, which fightech with, and cxpcl-leth the lickc matter; notbecaufe there are no peccant humors in it, but it is therefore at eafe, becaufc they are not provoked and purged out with wholefome medicine. A-giine, many feele not difeaffnent, becaufe they doc not taske them-felves about good duties; asinex-crcifing their fairh, renewing their thankfulncfle^gectringmore fhame and griefc to finite their hearts ia therr daily wams,in laboring to be more fruicfull iagood works than they have becne : in feeking heavenly mindedneflc and holineffe, which might make them doe all things as become the pretence of God, before whom they are. Indeed no wonder if wee beat eafc while wee il oflknd to thefe workes. A lam. skJiglimbehath eafe while it reftech/*u: yet is not

well,

Several!cafts thereof.

well, though ic hath not fcnfe of evill. Againe^hereisnocafefrom flecpinefleof confcience,while fpi-rituall flamber bindeth the fenfcs, and difccrtingfpirituall; Co that though there be many wofull evils, yet id all of them no difeafement is perceived. Thus a man with twenty fickneflcs, wellafleepe, feeleth nothing, Laftly, there is noeafe often in the body, becaufe the fen-fes being taken up with objefts delightfull to them, tend not that grief which hangeth about them: of which fort is the peace of the (bule, which difcerneth things a* roifle, matters of griefe; but the gratcfull objefts of the world, pleafure, company, &c. doe (b po£ fefle it,that being in thefejt feeleth nothing of that which in jfbme more retired thoughts it teemed to apprehend. What fliould I /peakc of mifdeeming our eftates ? There is a way right in a mans eyes, the end whereof is death; and the reft of which mifconceit,is like the cafe

of

■*■

m «■

——______—— -

Ta fa heed offpirituaUjlotb.

» i m ■ i I ■ .!■ ■ ___________

of a golden dream*. Or wbar fhould I mention any other kinds, which I thiake not To pertinent foryoureftate? I befcech you take heede of that neglect of getting your ficke foules drelTcd, that fpirituall (loth and rcftiaefTe. that (lumber, ifcat having your foules taken up with chefs matters which are gratefull to the natural! nun; take hcedc that none of thefe doe make you nap to your after for-row.» You will haply lay; In what ftandcth this true peace? Anfw. la perceiving the Grace of God fuch toward! mec in Chrift, that rr.y Conscience, through his bloodjis cleanfed from the guile of finne; that my foule, through his Spirit, is freed from the rage and tyranny of finne, that it hath not that power to carry me captive to ic,and workmydifturbance,which foratimesit hath had.Thirdly/hat my condition, through hisBlcfing inChriftmadeaCurfe formee^ is made fo comfortable, that it plea-

fithl

231

_■

lech me well; there being no tedious difeafements with which ic is accompanied, wMch would cx-tinguifh my j y for the prefent. FourthIy,that for the time to come hee will keeps me to him, patting his fearc in my hearc, according to his prornife, that I may not depart from hitUj finiiluog my faith feec hath begun j never leaving nor for-fafcing me, bur caufing every thing workc together, for my good. For there is afoure-fold Branch of this Peace; one, (hooteth forth of our Juftification; the other, from our San&ificatioflj the third,from that Bleffing with which God doth follow us, ii our outward condition j the fourth/rom the knowledge we have of his gracious pleafurc towards us, even for the time to come; without whicb^ wee could not havetrue peace: for how can a man have true peace earthly,without a fecurepofieflionofthe good he holdeth ? So there could be no true peace (pirituall to m^ now

bleffcd

Foute branches offpiriiujllFcicc.

bhffed With heavenly things, if we ffilght not have and hold thcrnj

wich a fpirituall fecurity. Where- j : e,dsare Brotheraad Sii1er,enrsr in:o 5 hearts ^ marke whence ic is, that yon got oa at cafe from day to day : is ic bec^ufeyou fee., chit G 6 t> for fcis Christs bl *h hach cried for bet-

ter things than the blood of Ab:l 3 hath ab .d you from the guile of all your fiuoe? Is it becaufe e power of fionebro-;cic cannot prevaileagsiinft you, ix-Limcs ic hath done,but I ^ fnne wea&ned j and your v!th more freedome obey-g God in fach things, in which fomuimes yon could not deny your fvilves? D)e you fee, that whereas your eftates fomecimes were troublefome to you, now they are made fuch as give you contentment, through the grace of God^bltJTngus i.»Chrirt, ac-curfed for us > Dxh God open the eyes of your miude, to tec his

L gracious

23i

I

gracious unchangeable good will cowards you forever? Then you have good ground for being at eafe within your (elves. But if you finde that your quiet fpringeth hence, becaufe you difquiet not your felvcs in weeding out youiL

\\

\

ignorance, unbeliefe, carelcfle-ne(Fe,&c. or becaufe you doc not prove your feeble fpirituall ftrengths, in labouring to dee every thing out of obedience of faith to the Lord, who fhould ever be before you; if becaufe cuftoma-ry faftiions, occafions, or obje&s of this or that nature, keepe you occupied about them, take heed of this Eafe, as ever you defirc to live in that eternall Reft, which God hath prepared for his people, j Digge into your hearts berime," hold them to th<t which is a-bove theirfelves, through the ftrength of Chrift: (?hcy will hang off from every thing that is no& aacurall to thero.) Iudge ycut| felves daily in your wants to God-ward.

Wt muftprovt our puce whetber,&c.

233

u arc!, fceke to C h k i s t the quickening Spirit, that you may J feele life and power in yoar waies : labour for (bbriety in the ufc of all worldly things: fyou know the laft times* their dcftiny is to have (hewcs, without life and power, to eate, drinke, marry, with forgetting the appearance of C h R1 s t.) Labour. thefe things, and the God of Peace make you taftc his joyes, which are transcendent^ above all this World can afford.

Ycur loving Brother, Paul Bajm.

L 2

T he fellow-feeling ofaffliEttni.

JO.

DEare Sifter, your Letter came not to mee, till I had beenea fortnight out of London. I would not have haftened from you, to have been a lieger there Co long. I felt my weaknefles knocking mare than before, and faw your hands full, which made me long after my moft familiar Manfion. For that which youfignifie,asbefalliig ycu that night,I defire to have fellow-feeling with you. Weemuftnor, like Swallowes, take the S aouner, and refufe to dwel wLh our friends in Winter : but it is a true faying, None knowes what newes the Evening will tell him. Hid I known it in the Morning, 5 1 may be, foryourfake, my fecond thoughts would have rejourned my prefenr defignes. Bat God is wife, who, whenhegiveth usPnyfickc, doth put ail the outward comforts wsc afr»&, farre from es, left his cha-

ftifements

1 1 m m* .

Wt are more fenftbh ofCrcjfes,

2 3>

ftifcments (hould work lefle kindly, and to the purpofe, wich us. Dcare Silter, the Phyficke rouft make us ficke, that doch us any good: yet Sifter, asweemuftnot binder them wich prepofterous and over-timely comfort of oar fel ves, Co wee muft not make them more vehemently ftirre us than they do; for both arc dangerous. I perceive by your little patheticall Letter, that you thioke a great dealeon this late hand of God: Towtldtft Brother, your eld>Ji Brother already , your eldcft Brother already rooted out} the(e are all affcftioiute eloquence, Siftcr,our naughty envies are full of falfe glides: when God doth us any favour, giving u> blef-fingSjthen they hold a glaffe before us, which makech them fc^me nothing fo great as thry are; when Gri {endethaiycroir^, then they deceive us wich fuch a glade, in which wefeemeto fee them mjch greater than they are. B-?fiJes,bs-caufe God giveih us fuch plenty

than of Favours.

of mercy, that wee arc ever in calling and profeffiog fbme good thing, or other; therefore, theft being plentifully make them leffe dainry : but not alwaies feelirg fome evill or other, they move us, whea they come fo much the more,by how much they are more unufaailwithus, Wccfeelemore the ach of one tooth, than the healthfcme frame of our whole bodies. Let you and me then tilke about thefe things which fticke mcftuponyour ftomacke. Sifter^ Is it not more kirdly, the younger (hould bury the cldcft/han other-wife > This then muft not grieve you, that God hath taken the eldeft 5 he was the ripeft, and fitteft to be gathered. But why doe you (ay, Already ? Alas, good heart; if hee had died before his upper Lip had fprouted, I (hould not have wondredat this word: but, Sifter, he lived aloaoft to gray baires ; you) could not begge a longer Leafe of your owne life, in modefty, than

God

Comfort for the death of

God gave him here amongft the living. If wee kept our daies in number, wee would chinkc fewer yeeres many; and in thofeyecres he came to a ripe age. Takeheede, left whiles you looke at that you have nor, you forget the Lords bounty, which is already received, in his fo long continuance with you. Wfcei you fay, He is rooted out; Itakcit, youufethisphrafe chiefely,becaufe hee is dead without heires male: bat that heehach hcircs ferrule, ic i&a gifc of grac^ which wee deferve not;. neither will his name be dead, while his Brother liveth. A~d what is the Name? Is it none of our things which cannot be ihaken ; every Nam: mufl: at length be extinft. I muftnot heale more Jo you th n I find ; left when I fceketocurt a wound that is, I make a new one, whichbefore was not. I concave your meaning no further :bnt comfort your fclfe in this; your bet el-deft Brother lireeh, and is by his

L 4 S >iric,

an elder Bret* tr*

t Spirif, with ycu co the cad; your' ; Lord Iefas, who i$ not a(h Jmed to callus Brethren, OSifter, would you provoke your heart to he ghd of hm3j you fhouldnot faxtQWtx? ceilively for the abfcnce of any earthly Brother: and wbacfoever thing i* inyour thoughr 5 yet cor ii-der xvho hath done it^even your loving Husband in Heaven. Ifyour earthly Husband ftiould do^ibmz fhrewd turne, as unawares breake forae Iewellyou much fee by; whep you heard that he did it,you would btftaied, though before you were much movsd. You muft fay as Chrift faith; Shall I not drinkc the Cup my Father putterh in my hand>That God/hat is,Lovf jdoch reach it unto you. If you fee Go j' angry, yet be of good cbeare; hec chat will not have finfull man iet! the Sunne go downs on his anger, hee will not forever kecpeanger j againftyou: and a Parent is a Pa-j rent, as well frowning, as fmiling. ! Judge your felfc, and with a faich-

ful!

Bez,*alom of Cjedsgkry.

*59

full heart, (hew him his beloved Sonne^n whom he is well pleakd-and he will be b^cter friends wich you than ever. Scirre up your (elfe co more zealeofGodsglorydn fee-king to briog children and fxvanrs to obey him in thcirfplrits^s well as ferve your (elfe with bodily fub-j ftion. Oh, tfrnke thecn no fer-vanes for you, that will not learne to ferve your Ktfsband in Heaven alfo, Hire an eye over young and oid ; K;it there be no appearance of ie4ea(l irreverence in your duties 'to God- occafion your (elfe co , challenge your f)ulc every day for unfrmtfuInefT*. Oh, wefhouldin vvayofthankfaluefle, wich all our hearts, (bules, and ftrengch?,beal-waies in ferving hkn : wee muCx ftrire to the higheft, and then G A will pardon all wee come (Lore in. And though yon recounr varieties of forrows which you have found yet know, that God ftrikech not with his whole hand,but fillippeth you rather with a finder: our blef-

L 5 • 1 fed

w

Wi ate not *lont af flitted.

fcdjSaviour hath drtmke the dregs for u?. Againe, you are not alone: y^^,tbargood Pat riarcb,had divers affliftions; Flight out of his Countrey- injury from his Father Lsidn . feare of death at the hands of his Brother Efou * aCaft-away ? in regard of nurcy; his Children* blbudy Pvior • his Wives death; jfy/^?j dcfpightfull packing into Egyft b &c. And Trier faith, Wee arc tpade hfavie with many Ten-cations*--when neede is : Which (hotild yet more comfort us, because that thenecefficy of our tft^re doth require that weefhould have variety of for ro we J. Indeed, wee muft be fbrry that our fbules are Co ficke, that they muft take Co many things: but muft be thank-full to God, that i? 5 not weary, but doth follow us with things, one after another, for our good • for yorir good All things [half works together, to the good of chofcthat: yc I: Yoer corn-torts nmfjboot : in this life ?

here

^•*nsw«9Pssw«»<w -

A Ckriftians crojfismake btm

- - - * *

here is not chat Reft for Gods people : wee will let Diveffe* flag a Rcqttkmio their foules; bucwer will pray to God for grace,that we may carry our crofle,and tike evill no kffe thankfully than godd from his hand : neither muftyour com-fort be tacked upon the pretence of a nun; the God of all confoLti-en rs your Comforter^ that Spirit which Chrift will fend unto you^ ffonrrhim. And let all your (or-rowci be welcome for this fruit, which in the end you fhall findeby thtm : viz. That your departure from this world (hall be fomuch mere eafie when it cemmeth, by how much you arc before by fuch crcflfc cncoun f e<s killed in your afflfticn co it, S^ch a<mufthnve a member cut off, iFey willingly yeeldtofnve it bound, though ic be painfi )!• becaufe, when it is mortified and deaded with ftraic binding, :hey (hall ensure the cut* ting ot it eff farre more cafily fo (ha!i wee take our cutting off from

i his

241

1

«4 *-

■*—■

2 42 I wiilinger to part with the world.

this World fo much more gently, by how much more painfull pin-chings wee have endured. Weft, cheGod which teachech us to pro-j fir,as Efay faith; which purgech us by thefe meanes 3 and makcth u^ more fruicful] • he make you more furitfull by this his hand, in every good word aad worke.

Ydur loving Brother, ?ju\ Bxjne.

3 r

LOving Sifter ;ill GIc&s mirre a good Text : Co my ill con* ftruftion had alraoft dor€ by yoar good Letter. Yet I am not ferry that I miffed your meaning; fork grievf s me not fo nrich for to'mit

I

conftwe yourphrif^as itgladdccb mee, thi: nofuch unrdinancy ©f gdetc came nigher you^s I imagined and feared.. Tb*c which you conceived in faying, Already, t did eonje&ure it likewise;, but did doc

plainly ?

«T» — *-* *=

Faiths afoveraigpse Ladj,

i

plainly expreife ic; bec*u(e I knew perfons in griefe rauft be g 7 ng-rly handled, let* wee make a Wound where there is none, or exafperate that which is already (waged. I chanke you for my Hmd-kcrcher: In rccompence of yoar love, \ will comnend unco you 3 good Midwife, if you will fend for her 5 ic is my Lidy Faith, whoistheS~>-veraigifc Lady and CotiTundreffe in ail things which the jofl mm doch, or (uffereth. The jift In troubles (hill live by his Eairh That which Iliye in the fi .-fh.evcn in refpeft of this eternal! life, World-ward, I 1 v^ ic-fay fai:h "»n the Son ^iGoifiH-.hS.Pjeu^tjjln 2. Now, this grea: Worthy doth come to none bu: thoic whofrft prepare for her, addrdlhg them-felves to her liking j fecofldly,(ead for hcr^ thirdly disc her to her co 1-tcntment: for (hec will quickly b: gone, if yon nuke not fuch provi-fion which is gcatefcll unto her. For the firft: Silter^greac Mid wive?

or.

24;

mm

*mm

-.—-•»

and the be ft Midwife.

.

on Earth, they come to great ones,

where their wages (ha]] be baunti-

ftill.their gifts libers]]- where they

(hall have worfhipfruH ;efpc& put

upon them, and all thugs of the

beft fmting to -ih%jr contentment.

find they cot e not willingly, bat

where there is Come -likelihood

they nuy goe thorow with their

ie. But ny Lady requireth

co provifioo nor qualification in

rhe perfons fhec viiletb, but that

they be poore in fpirir, sn J Pe

thetnfel ves at luch a pafle^that they

.ow notwhattodowithou:her 0

s know nor what to do, Lut our

! are towards thee, O Lord 5

a fenfe,andourowne ftrength

5 ftandjthen there is fie roomc

'or Faith to enter. Youmuft

therefore, good Sifter,what

ft this cafe i?,:owhichyou

. You knoWjgood Rachel

1 way in ir. jft isthechg-

'the great God; which

't put under with one

3 with the other,

we j

«• L t-

- •■ t . . » ■

v?e could nocindureic: Yea, deliverance in this cafe (but that is Co ordinary) would defcrvedly be counted miraculous. Wherefore you muft not thinkeof it as of a matter of courfe, which you neede no further to looke about, than to get helped the accuftomed means unto you: No,no; you muft labour to thinke that you are in fuch a ftrefle, out of which none can help you,but the firoog Helpe of Ifratl, Secondly, you muft fend (or her: Now (he dwellcth in Heaven,whither you muft difpa'ch your hearty fraycr, faying to the Lord : Thou knoweft, O God, how my heart la fallen from thee, intheaffiinceof fcj and how prone \i is to leane to fuch helps of the crea-ure, as I fee before me; though thefo^, without thee, can doe nothing. O Lord, though I know rhereisnoRccke befide thee., yet I am fb dead in un-belicfe and falfs confiier.ee, that I cannot truft on thee. HcSpe there-foremy unbeliefs, and increafe my

filch.

womjn great of cbilds.

faith.Now when he do:h give you grace, feels faith camming toward you 5 you muft cherrifti it wkh fach food whsreby ic groweth : now faith fcedeth oa Gods promise, on experieace 5 and on confederations which arc deduced out of Gods Word. Thus you muft rhinke : Lord* thou doeft make the Hhdes to CiJve; As thou hart chaftened us with pain in tra-ve!i s to thou haft promifed that we fhill p*(Te the pikes, and bring £otth y though with (brrowes. A-gaine^ you muft thinke, how you have fo*Jnd God foithfall and rner-cifull in this kinde. Finally, you muft reafon thus \ That hee who hath put that mercy into a finfuii mao, to helpe a Beaft in the tra« veil of it, when it is hard; will hee faile to give yon (a Daughter believing on himj all the helpe thac is good £cv you 5 and which maketh wichhis glory l The Lord acquaint you with him(elfe 0 in the daily, experiences you have of bis

Mercy

G id doth r.ot cornel us l$y

Mercy and Truth. Thus hoping my Midwife comraeth not too late, I commie you to God,

Your loving Brother, Pan/ Baym.

32,

DEare Sifter, I doe ddlre to grieve tvkh you, in your griefe • and to have, in fome measure,! glad and thaakefizll heart in your rejoycing. It is but fince my camming co Towne, that I heard ofyour bruifed body and difiafed miade: my eyes are cad up co him, who break"cb not a bruifed Reede, that he would ea(e your mind?; to him that m ikech the broken bones to re) }yce, that hee would recirne you your accuftomsd health and comfort.

D:ireSiftor, wee muft in all accidents of this nature, remember, that our Goddochnotchaften, as having plcafurejchaiteningtinply:

but

mjre than we have needof.

but when ncede is, hee rciterateth ourcorte#ion f sukingus heavieat fimdrie tiroes^ and by C mdry occa-fia&s and manoers,according as our necefficy requircth: We (hall finde in the end,ue could not have lacked any one thing,which in this nature hath befallen us.

Wherefore wee muft not be too rauch caft downe inthefe Cor re ft i. on?; but rather admire our heavenly Fathers love, who is net weary of nurturing fuch unreachable children; who is not weary of following the cure of our incurable DUeafes* incurable, were hee not fuch a healing God, who could fubdue every thing to himfelfe. Yea, though our Confidences doc know, that there is a caufe why he chafteneth and putteth fuch bitter Potions into oar hands; yea, that befalleth us, which is obferved in unskilfull Patients, wee miflethe Marke often, whenweconjeftuce the grounds of our owne griefes.lt is not want of love, Sifter, to S. S.

which

Cod f urges w with ajfl0iws

which is any pare of Gods quar-rcll (chough wee cm, none of us, love either the begetter, orthofe I that arc begotten,as we ought; for all our delight (hould be in them:) It is fomc deleft, Si fter,in rhe day-lycourfe,andin the frame and con-ftitution ofthe heart towards God. When wee doc not, by imprinting in our hearts the remembrance of our Icarres fore»pafled, prefer ve in ourfoules that lowlinefle and poverty of fp : rit which it becom-meth us to have before God, and which fometimesweedidfeelein co Science of thofe our provocations; then we give him juftoccafi* on to medicate on fome new Cor-regions. When our hearts grow a grainc too light* when our water (at it were) boketh but a little too high; our heavenly Father, a Phyfician no leffe loving than cun-ning,he doth difcerne i t,and quickly fitteth us whom hee moft tcadc-reth, with that which will reduce all to the hcahhfomc temper of a

broken

250 according to oar difttmperr.

*• ■■ 1

broken fpiric. Alas, Sifter, fuchis the folly ia the btft of our hearts, that ^ur beating will no longer dwell tffthusto purpofe, thaa the faiartbfteth; and as that weareth away, fo wee grow into a kinde of lightnefle, fecurity 5 and liberty^ which are fore-runners of fome enfaing rebuke. That God which teacheth his children to profir,and which givetb wifedoroe to us that want ir, without upbraiding us; he open our eyes,to £c our eitares this way, that fo he may furnifh us with true underftanding* Well, though theft things come often,yet be not difmaied T it is Gods preventing love, who will have no neaft of ficke matters breed in us, which fhould then difmay us, when we moft of all fhnd in neede of comfort. A body conveqiendy purged every Spring and Fall, is not Co fubj :£tto c6:u£t (natter of deadly fickaeifc, ai another, which hath long gone, 00 without helpof any (uch evacuation. Wee fay, it is a

mife-

■^^••^« n ■— ^m ■ i I ii «

oniferablc life, to live ftill in cotirfe of Phyfickf; but we may tame the fpecch in fpirruall confidsratfon, and fay, B!efed are thsy, who are never without feme bitcer thing or other from God, that they may be reftorcd, and preferred from the fecond D^ath. And for my felfe,Siftcr 5 you have fjper- ' abounded tome in your tave^ your a£tio:s and fruus have not bcene fpirLg, but your affe&ion I did ever perceive cowards m: in ali fi> csricy.I am forry that I have fh i v-edyou no more,ar,d ;hat my health doth not give mee leave to vlfit I you, and come upon yon, without writing »ay furthfer iavitemem. I h .ve long waded in a confl fting Icourle, an JI thanke my 0 )d (vfho hach wrought in me) the lib jur of my minde, in fx^eregird^ hath notbeene littic;thUmikcth m; not able to mniftcr to my dear e friends, a* other wife I fhmi'd. When the hearcs necc Xvy rcquireth a confl j-ent of bl jo J to k,the hands & fuc'i

exced-

»5*

Wt mujlfuppert $thets a at vetU^&c.

m ' !• * l ■ II* ll » ■ I

exc&ior members are left pale and blood lcfle to appearance: you may apply it; when fupport of our owne ftates calls for our ftrcngch. we cannot doe that abroad, which other wife were bchoofefiill. Never thch fle, Sifter, if God eafe nor your mindc, that you can walkc in (bme tolerable fafhion under the burthen; and if withal l,you thinke my pretence might be reliefc to you that way, ! I will for a while adventure to you, if God (part me health in any meafurc. If God fo Iooke upon your ipirit^as that you feele your felft in fomeforcfuffi. ciently ftreogthened, then out of your love forbeare that, which you may otherwifc in love command. Thus leaving y#u to your God, who teacheth us to profit, and giveth hearts as well as corrections; andwiQiing you much quiet fruit of righteoufhes in his feaibn, I take my leave,this 30. olQSlobtr.

Your Chriftian Friend, and loving Brother s Paul Baym.

Wt have mede eft he Lords daily aid.

*53

33-

MY deare Sifter; the Lord, who helpeth uswithevery good defire.,helperac with prayer, which may find favour in your bc-halfe, through Chrift. Should no place hold me, in which I found not cafe and content 3 I could not mike abode long under the Moon: for though I hive fowne the feede of both, I know that I am not yet to re ape fo much as the fir ft fruits of my Hirveft $ I have need of faith and patience, to mike mcinherite every promife. The Lord be our ftrong Arme every morning, and teach us fo to Iookc to him,?hat we may fcele our fpirituall ftrcngth renewed.This I fpeake not of contentment grounded in godlinefle, for I have that in ray meaftre, I thankc God • but in regard of that content which refulteth fromth: pleafing rcllifh of outwardcircum-ftaaces. The fweetc waies of my

youth ]

I youth did breed fach wormes ic my Soule, ss chat my heavenly Father will have me yec a while continue my bkrer Wormc-feedc., be-caufe they cannot otherwife be thorowly killed. I write this the rather for your fake; for true!y I findjthat the cofdence of my ihre and need doth helpc mee much to digeft fuch grievances as would goe too much againS ftoraacfce, had r;ot God acquainted mee with this gromd of patience. For yoi*r weafeeneflcj Sifter, I hope God will make it end iti ftreagvh. It is kindly for Phyficke to infeeble a while : H:>wfoever,hoid the Rock and ftrer-grh of the heart, the Lord Jefus. Hee who healed all Maladies, when hee was abated on Earth* He, whole glory hath not diminiflbed either mercy or ability in him, Hie Icttethus be weake, that hee may make us ftrong: our exrremitiej is his opportunities where mans helpe endeth, Gods power begins. The Father of mer-

cies

God orielj ourrockf ofComfttrt.

ciesin Chrift,drawyoutohim,and make you able a little co wreftle with him forftrengch, acleaftfor fpiricuall comfort : Hccwillbea Rocke,& ftrcngth, when heart and flefh (hall fail^he will give you the BrcftofConfolation, and comfort you, when no artificial] Confc&i-ons can exhilarate your fpirit 5 hee Will be Anodyne to you, eafing you of all your paine and gricfc, ftafombly; a ftiadow at the right hand, agaiuft all heat which trou-bleth^ a prefent reliefc. Our weake mindes creeping ftill below in earthly fuccours* are much more (baked with evils than they (hould, could they cry to God, and get themfclvc8,by vertue of his protni-fcSj as it wercj by certaine fcaling-iaddcrs,mounted up unto him.The raine cannot lye folong on high mountains, as wee fee it to doe in lower grounds; {b is it in thefe waters of our affli&tons. For the Fityou expeft^God who worketh above that we can aske, or thinke;

M hee,

*53

Wt muftfubmitto Gads Toake.

' hee, I hope, will be better to you than you looke for. Sometimes, when we prefume upon freedome 3 he doth with-hold it from us: and fometimcs when wee reckon on no otherjbut to returne to our yoake^ and take up our crofle,hc doth dif-mifle us: but if it dot come 5 and ac the good timCjWelcome ic,though ftbeatroublefomcgueft; I doubt not but God will make it pleafe you welat parting.Neither be too much moved at thofe other petty afflictions: I ftiould rather chufe to have my houfe Gods Hofpicall, than a Court of fiich pleafore whereto Gods fcare is almoft exiled. Bitter herbes are better, while they breed good blood, th^nthe fweeteft meate which ingendercih bitter voisii^and monall (kknefle. The Lord give us wife hearts., which may Mthcrchu(caffli<ftions thanvanity^wfoichma^nbt think much to dwell in houfe fometime with godly mourning AVdi Siller, youhavehadyourrncafureingod-

*!£. iy

ly forrow, as a fofter-facher to the fnile : I doe affure you this bk£ fi g in the Name of theLord, you (hall receive comfort; thy latter end fhall be peace, thy winding-(hc*t fhall b* as Gods hand-ker-cher, to wipe all teares from thy eyes, through Chrift our Redeemer. Which I (peak uof,to weaken your Faith touching temporall deliverance which God ufeth to fhew the righteous (when ic is good) though they fall into fixe, yea,into (even adverfities: but that your Faith, confirmed in that which is principal!, may make you depend on God more confidently far his Redemption from thefe prefent cvillft (which is acceffory, and lefle principal!) and that Co farre as it may (land with his glory.

Your loving Brother, Paul Bsjm, M 2 34. Loving

Chriftim admonition.

34-

LOvingBrothcr : TheoccaGon oiwhius comming home,doth move mc to write (brae few words to yr u; partly, for your better ft-tisfiftion, touching our affaires; partly, forourChriftian Admonition, which is al waies needfull: according to tharj Admonifh one another, whibic is called to day, left our hearrs be hardened, through the dcceitfulnefie of finnc. The grace of God, which faveth us by the forgivenntflc offione • and the gift of adoption, which making as Sonnes, bringeth us to hare the Spirit of Chrilihcre, theearneft-penny of that mafic of glory wee looke for hereafter : This grace doch teach us, that is, effefru-ally perfwade,yea,andconftraine (as?^»/fpeaktth) the love of God dorhco(<ftraineu$; allfuch as caftc it, doc walke not onely juftly cowards men, but godly in the

duties

The love of God ytlH wane us

duties concerning Godsworfhip, publike and private $ and fbberly, in ufing all the bleflings and liberties of this preftnt life, which God of his mercy doth vouchfafc us. Now, many of us are taken tardy, bccaufe, that though wee have care of fare and juft dealings, yet, if wcc examine our felvcs in godlinefle and temperance, wee may be put in thablacke Bill for Nan-frefcums. For what is godlinefle? An inward devotion of

I heart to God, which makcth the godly foule both ufe diligently all parts of his worftitp, private and publike, and alio in everything to fceke his glory. So,to walke temperately towards our felves, is to be foberly aflkfted towards the things of :hi$ life, which wee ufe : as neither to phy theHarbengers

j and Purveyour<, to provide for the lufts of our hearts, before we have them; n*r yet to goe too deepe in them, when wee have them; nor finally, to be moved much, ifwre

M 3 have

have not this or that which wee defire. If wc-havetafted thefwect grace of God in flmjl 3 you muft needs finde your heart drawne orf to care to pleafc God by holinefle and fobrkty,and u eanedneffefrom the things of this prefent World. Gods loveconftrainethustolove. Cos AmorU Amor; That you (halt fay,Wbat have I in heaven but him? in earth in comparifbn of him ? We love him, becaufe he hath loved us fir ft. And if you have felt thcfweet of his grace, which is better than lifcjit will weaneyou in fcmz mea-fiire,and make you fober minded in thefe earthly affaires and delights. I count all things drolteanadang in comparifbn of Ghrift and his righteoufuefle. A mansmouth doth not water after homely provifions, when hee hath tatted well of delicate fuftenancf;(b,whofe heart hath (lied into Gods favour, which is better than the vintage or harveft, than all earthly profits and plea-fures: he whofe heart feekth this.

can-

e Ibep§wer of godlinefjc*

*5?

cannot bat be more weanedlydif-pofed towards things tranfitory, than thofc whofe portion is in tfrefc matterSjWho know no greater hap* pinefle: wherefore let meeintreat you, as you will aflureyourfelfe that you are a Scholler, taught by the grace of God j letme,l iay,m-treat you toftirreupyourfelfeto godlinefle, not to the outward naked profeflion and (hew of it, but the power of it is Gods Image re-newed in the (pint of your mind, 2 Tim. verf.%. 5. Then as your free in a glade looketh to your felfe, whofc figure it is, (o let your fouU ever bs looking towards God, whofe fciige it beare?; ftir up your ft lie ro him : fu;h as love noc the Lord Tcfas, Ut him b* accurfed. Would notyoubeafnaraedco &ve another more than your owne be> trochedwife? S lal we not blulh to have our aff.ftion more towards the creature, than God our Creator aud Redeemer > to whom we ba?c pligh: our faith, as being bap;iz:d

I

ia his Name* which is likcvvife called upon us, as a mans name upon the woman with whrnn he is coupled? Now tree love is officious «nd diligent, not contented with good workes which are good cheape, but it will conftraine us to doe all good ferviccs that are plea-.fing to God.The love of God con-ftrainethus, yea,in private, to doe like as Abraham the friend or lover of God, Got. 18.19. Yea, to halt that which is evill: Yee that love the Lord,hate iniquity 5 ar.d dofeare { to offend God. Res tftfeUiati,fkna ttmorUamcf : As itexpelleththat flavife feare, which is more of punishment than offence, love cafteth outfeare; fo,(bberandwatchfull, put on Chrift: Take no care to fulfill the lufts of the flefti, ufe the World as not abufing it; be married as if you married nor ; yea, cut your flefh fhorter in fome things your minde (upeifluoufly defireth, | like David. Remember S. ?**/> PhiL± % \2< who wasfo weaned to

all

ail things through Chrift, that hee ceulJ doc as well in wane of all thing§,as in abundancg.D je not all yoa c*iy doe, kft you quickely commit thac you may not doe. All things arelawfull, but I will be fervant to aothing; be not unpro-ficable towards God: Trees without fruit (hall be cut do wne; many (hall feeketo enter, and (hall not enter. Shore (hooting lofeth many a gam?. I call on you, left your thoughrsof marriage,your fcftivall recreaiion^ your companies, refo, bring you afL'ejpc : An eafie thing when the Candle isforth, and all Gill w;;hont din, r o fall a napping; which will prove to your c-ft *?vhen God fliill fend for:h fun* mom for (laggards. My wife h weake 5 bu* Gxl doth bearc her up vtich meckaeflr* J thankfulne(T',and bope,in all het affliftions.We both remember yoa,and wifh your heart may not be hardened through the deccitfuiarffe of fin, Blefled is hee thaitearech alwaiet, but hee that

M 5 harde- \

—

hardench his heart, (lull fall into evill. Fare wel!,comcr;end us to M r . M. his wifej&CiBrc* her,remr mber one thing is ncccflary- what if we could win the World, and lofe our fbules? Thinke often that Chrift doth denounce wo on the Worlds whom hee taketh not in where-dome D drunkennefle/xtortion 3 &c # but whom hee findeth with thir hearts afl^epe., in eating and drin-king^buildingjbargiinit g ; that is, following lawfull chirgs,but with negkft of godJinci!e,and therefore unlawfully* Reade theft plwccs. You have turned the quotation of many a Statute, reade them a*aine and againc, Corporall meat taftctb in the mouth,thcfe are facet in the belly: A man cannot eate his Cake and have k.But you may eate thete words often* and theofceneryou feede on them by meditation, the morefweet nouri&menc you (hall find in them.

Your loving Brother^ Paul Baine*

Rtpmtance the touchftoxe of religion,

35-

BEIoved Bro:her,though I have taken my courfe hlcherco,and becnemore indulgent ro my ielfe In privacy chan heretofore, yec a& (lire yoar felfe, youarcinmybeft remembrance daily.My heart doch intend to do you the be ft fervices I fhall be able>ia v/.iy of your foul?5 I ropeI {hill e^ecuce tbeai in good time-: I would be forry the Sceed ju!i ftervc while the grafte groweth, as wee we fpeafce in the ' Proverb/vVhersforeldoaimonifh ru, that you would ftir up your bearc to repentance daily 3 snd chat: you would labor to feele that your affeftions arc no*' fit upon God : this is the touch^one by which wc rmytrythe truth of our Religion, and of that Faich we have toGod: thatcomfe which is eftraoged tc rhe&tfe all the country wide of the way to falvation; this is ch? way chkhcr,Ifyou\vUcfcapechewrati

to

265

-. ■* m

■1 *vr .

co come, repent, and doe workes worthy repentance. If you repent not, yee fhall penfh. Now the cx-ercfe ofthisjs thus much : viz,. A renewed gricfe for all unwonhi-ncfle paft and prefenc 5 to ome honaenecrei & necrer to God daily. Can we doe eafier pennance, than to let out hearts finite us with the thoughts of our ignorace.our care-lefnetfeof God, andnrgltdtingof his fervice} of our great uoprcfica-bkneff?, which alone is fearefull ? Fcr t>he Tree that bringeth not forth good frui% is as well cut downeto the fire, as that which is loaded with bid. Wc cannot ihif, bat grieve in thefe confide radons, if our hearts love God. If we faile a friend inducy of love, it grievech us j bat if we doe hsro a difpleaibre and trefpaflc, jjfHy alienating fv* miode trom u\v doth c at as at the heart, that wee hav* forgo: ou* (elves (u fanre^aod we befhrew our fclvesfork : Qull we then take no care (or the things wee oa;|tand

„

—■

commit

Wt muft compound with Godjo 265

commit againft God? Miliceonly is careleffe of fhrewdturnesdone to fuch whom (he maligncth. The nature of Lore, is to grieve at the leaft offence given,there where (he Ioveth : What if (hee offend him not (b grievootly, as we fee others, fhall we therefore not be grieved, though wee hold on ia a cour r c in fame raeafure offensive > Min ha h right ro a penny a* well as a pound, and may be wronged as well i 1 the one as in the other: And will not the fame rule h:>ld towards Gxi ? You m'jft the rather heare on this fide, because that th? fparkUng of Gods angtr in your Town?, was a Summons (ent forth form (bepcr% that will not awake our fclve^ ind prepare to naeeteotir God in hearty humiliation. The Famine and Sword, and Plague, you know are the three greateft Arrefts that God ferveth on frchasbreakehis Covenants impenttently. This, Brother, is the oncly way to avo*i danger, to lookc unco Gods grace

with

s

I

%66 avoydfick^ntffc bis Sergeants.

wih x forrowfull heart, acknowledging, that you have (erved him loo&ly and imfruicfull/. If a Crc-dicorfhxild lay wait ro acreft me^ being in the Cicy; thoij^hlchan-ged my Chamber from the Temple to Whitc-Chippeiljthough I corrupted the Sergeant with a Fee, all this could not fecure me; for another Sergeant might be got, cr (brae new coufe devifed for mee: but if my Creditor be compound-ed with,! w*lke (afcly. O Brother and$f[fer,tbusuis: weeareallof usd.btorsuntoGod; SickenefTes are but his Sergeants; there is no way of defeitiogjif God do lay his hand upon us, but by fuing unto him wich faichfull and for-rowfu.JI hearts, that it wouid pleafe him, for his Chrift fake, to give us a £hti?ius e^ aad freely acquit us of ail oar trefpafles $ which (land till then, as fo many Debts in his Booke8 3 uponout heads: then wee mayflsep on both fiuesymd walke at large j the Coaii. is ckay^vvicb-

one

i

= ^-' i-~ » c*

=+-^m~^

Dilar not rtfetiunce ; Call

26j f

I

out danger. Wherefore delay not this matter; let not company transport you, hi not feare of painfil-n r ;Ge,and forgoing dc light (yoa are worfe afraid than hurt) let not any indifpofition and (hthfulneffe hinder you; (hike up your felfe 3 CHrift will helpe yon, M$do & medb non htxbent modum ; the longer you put it off, the longer you may. A man thatgetteth up forne time, xvlicn his head leemeth full of fLepe, feclethnowaat of if, whenhecis well wakened • nay, is oftenmorc Iightfome, than if hce had conti-nued fl egging. l^ec (hall lofe no contemraenr, by offering vio T s ce to our (firicull flothfalntfle. The Lord,thattooke L^liogering,and carried him forth of Sido w 5 hee catch hold of you, andfulpeyou ia this bufinefle. And when you have found this way, you muft helpe your Wife, and call on her, toreturnewithyou. A good mm cannot tell how to goe to heaven alone : the Communion of Sai

mu3

—r

Giber ; to walkf with God,

♦

.

■

•\ ■!«

mutt be a pcfet of pra&ice 5 as well as an Article of Belhfe. One Cm-die lightcth aiother:even fo grace, where ic is, will labour to Mndle grace where it is nor. We had need to rerurne; all that live ftrangers from God (hall perifh: as forus then,it is good that we draw neere unto him. Now if you aske hew you may walke with God? 1 an-fareryou; by letting yoar heart upon him : for as we fay, There a_ tnanis, where bis heart is; ncicher cm wee have God otherwi(e for our Go J, unlcflc our hearts b? towards him; for if our hearts be on any other thing, then that is our Treafure and our God. Njw if you wouid find out^ whether God hath your heart, or no, you muft trie it by thefe rules, by examining whether your thoughts and affe&i-orii ar*taken up with^lm. If our hearts b- fet up^n a things wee thinke on ic often, and muCe thereon in the night fcafba, being not abk, means-while, to rake any

Rules ta kn<rn> whether our

269

reft for ir. So, all that feare the Lord, muft be thinkers on him : though bee be not in fight of the bodily eye, herouftftillruninour minds. If we take no thought ofa thing, it is a token that it is of no refpeft with \}$. Brother, God is not fo commonly knowne, but hee is as rarely thought aponjand mens hearts fmite them not, when they goe day after day, not once calling to mindc the powerfull remembrance of God : thoagh the Scrip-tare, when it doth termc men all the evill that is, doth ftile them no other than fuch as forget God. A-gaine, as the thoughts muft be tnindftill of him, fo theafFeftions of love, joy, fearc, and defire, muft be towards him. Examine therefor?, whether you findenot, that your defires are more inclining to earthly things : you feare more often, left men fh*uld cenftreyou, and note you of novclcy and prr-cifenefle, for doing duties to God • than that hee fbould juftly have a

quarrell

quarrdl againft yoa, for negle-(Sing his fervice daily. So, if your hcarc joy not in the acquaintance you have with this or that man, more than in the knowledge you haveof God in Chriftjefus, which isLifeeverlafting : Looke if your hcarcieft love be not beftowed rather on the creature, tbanont'te Creator and gracious Redeemer, Jcfas Chrift, Now, if you finde aflk£tionatIy,howfarre your hearc is out of fquarc, then you muft not negleft to feeke remedy for this eviil; Griefe which is at the hseles thereof, is not to be regarded. For when the moft vicall part, even the h*arr, is touched, then wee feeke CordialU, andbeftirre us for the reftoring and preftr-ving of it : If the heart, as the Fountains of this momentany life, tarefpeftcd; what care rnuft wee have of it, as it is a Fountaine of fpiricuall life, never co be ended? There is but one PhyScian tha: feeleth this heart-pulfe, and is

able

\

able to healc ic; even Chrift Jefts, chat hathfaid, Hee will take from us the heart of ftone, that is, our fecure, impenitent, and dreadleffe hearts, continually offending our God; and will give us flefhy , that i?, tender hearts, fuchasfhall froiceus when we trefpafleagainft him. We had need to cry to him; for the beft of our hearts; if we knew thern,are (b naughr,that they hadneedtobemadeanewthorow-out,for they are paft mending. Labour to find out this mortall poy-fw, which cxTinguifbech all life of grace. Theloveofthe WorlJ,and the love of the Father, fighdike fire and water, they will not dwell together. Keepc the heart with all diligence, for thence are the i£ fues of life; pray to God to change if, pray to him to ke*pe the frame of it: refraine that which increa-fcth the finfall diftemper of it; -ucquaintyourfelfewichfiichgood noeanes, by which your thinking upon God, and your hearty

affefti-

i

affc&ions cowards htm, may be cherrftied md encreafed. I will (horrly fend you a Letter cfi fuller direftion this way* Ic is better to feele Gods favour one houre in our repenting ftules, than to (it whole Ages under the warmeft Sun-foine this World affordeth. Commend me to my loving Sifter; (he muft thinke of this mat- er too: not thole that are carckffc and flotbfulljbat the vio Jen t^that catch at it by force, they carry away the Kingdome. Many that fceke, (hall not enter: what will become of us, if we feeke not$ In words and pro-feffion* All Chfiftians looke to Heaven • indeed wee are all for the Earth: this raketh up our thoughts and affc&ions, that wee are like Boat-nun, that looke one way,but row another.

The Lord bs with both your fpirks. Farewell.

Your loving Brother, Paul Bajne.

mm

3<J.

ALts,deare Brother,! defire for co condole your chance with you infhefight of my God, wifti-ing him out of his grace, to enter-lace the Ce k of h*s fweec love with your tr t Td'.fcomforc,: nd ro give you th quiet fare of r ghte-oufnefle, fallowing in «hc end of I this yonr chafti/cmenr. The Lord doih give us many ehings, and that onely to prove us, that by them we may be led uito knowledge of our hearts, cither to fee our owre weakentffe,and chert by reverent aad love the Giver, and foto be comforted when hee takeththem from iis^or to difcov^r by them the un weauednc0e of our affcftions,by living in fecortcy, andforgetfuincs of God; that finding fuch things, wee may be moved to godly lor-row; the end of which,is fal vation. Event, which is one Booke that o-peneth Gods fecret pleafure, doth

now

*74

for the death of a Wife.

now fpeake thus much ;ThacGcd did never intend that you (hotjld long injoy that gift hee gave you; hee dii it to try what was in you^ to make you fee it, either to your comfort,ortoyourfurther humiliation before him.The fpirit of marv knowech the things of man; you have a privitie within your ftlfe, which can determine one way this ca(e,whicb in it felft is indifferent. Now to hejpe you (as God (hall guide) under this hand, you muft marke what this courfe, on Gods part doth moft probably tend to; and in the fecond place, what you ate to doe, that out of your great IciT^you may worke to your /elfe true advantage. For the firft, the Lord dcth point out thus much; that there is corruption fiill lying in you, tha r cr.uft be purged forth ; and chat he out of his fatherly loue cannot ceafe,but minifter medicine to you, to the end that hee may bring away that which would o-therwife hazard your ibules health.

We

;

Cod ajfliUs mm without cau \

e.

275

—■*•

We are not made heavie with many things unlefls our neede (6 requite, fiichS. Yeter.) Chap.T^ . A wife Phyfidaa will not give Potion after Potion, where bad matter is fafficiendy evacuated; much lelfc I will God reiterate foch ftroug purges, if he did not fee that our rred ' did enforce ic. Wherefore,dears ' Brother, you mullleame to fee Gods mercy in following of ycu, and the nrje Jc your (bule hath tbu3 to be dc4ic withal] 5 you rouft be-thinke you, how that his former blowdi I not worke fo to purpof: upon y ou,as was mcci : which doth .mike him deale like the cunning Phyfoian, who when there is not bl>od enough taken away^ doth Refctert victs^ opeo tht Vcine,and make ic bice /reft. You muft bethinke you, what (cape did o* virtake you in- youth, that your God fliQuidrn?.ke a ambiance, as if he thought you not worthy of the ftabl: fruition of (b I lovely a blcflhg, as is a Chriftian | tradable )

How to profit by Gods vifimion.

traftable loving wife: Happy is he thac diggcth into himfclfe, to fiod the roots of his cvills. Merbi nojlri fiCilins curantnrqnam invtmnntw* Pray to God that you may take ro heart thecaufes ofthi ^ ; then che cffc&s (hall quite ce*{e. whe 1 the caufcs are removed. We thac hold demurs to found the truth of cau-fe$, and who would rather have the judgement of awholeCollege ofPhyficians/ban not find out the ground of a bodily gricfe: how fhould wee feekc to God, that wee might through his light difcerne what d wells in our fpirits? Which is the ground of his difpleafure. Now for the fecond thine, how you may make the b^ft of this vifi-tation; you rouft doe this,be declining that which may hinder, and ufing that which may further the cffrftuali working of this upon you to falvation. O Brother,if you take phyficke,will you goe out into the aire? Will you diftemper your fdfc by diet ? Will you hurt

the

Wt muft take affb&ion to bean. I 277

the working of ic inyou>(Such accidents as thcfe,are Gods Phyficke) for your (bule: O be caref ull co let them workcin you to purpofe,that your healing(whenGod (hill (hew ic) may fland a Fall & Spring with you,may becontinuall. IfaPotion ftay not with us, but come up a-gaine untimely,wbat will it benefit the body > If a Seate-cloth be put upon us, and wee weary quickely, pull it offagaine,what profit can it j bring us ? O Co, when God layeth thefe Plaifters to our hearts,indeed fomewhat fmarring, if we will not let them lie oo f but quench that forrow for fid, by company, and other occafions, not dieting our (bules, as who are Patients under Gods hands: Alas, wee (hall be as ready for anew Purge,as if we had nerer taken any. O Brother,! give you no woife counfell than 1 my (cttepra&ife; if I knew any ftfer, you fhould have it. The Lord give you wi(3ome,that you may be able to looke before you,and delight in

N fuch

Wt art apt to Jleight offliRiott.

—————«—^ ■ | i ———————

^ch things, which though they be tedious for the prefenr, yet they will end (Weedy •! know your danger ; Oh, if wee had but our owne foolifh hearts, wee had enemy e-nough, too mighty for us, without the helpe ofJe(&s Chrift our Lord: But a great many of Syrens fing a-boutyou a great many of matters, which will by little and little,fteale thefcvory thought of thefe things out of your heart :yea,I would we had not evill fpirits to keepe pof* feflion in us., with fvtch violence, that wee can hardly make entrance for a thought of this nature. Again, it (b fareth with us, that things the fecondtime, ftir us not commonly fo much as at the fit ft; asnature,the more fliee is accuftomed to medi-cine,thcle(fe (he is moved with it: 0,youmuft be afraid of this carriage toyourPhyficianjftrong things will poi(bn us if they purge us not. Againe, our hearts are (b hard^thac till the Spirit doe (often them,thefe laffiiftions which are Gods hammers,

L

i

mers, beare cold Iron; all is boot-lefle. 0,when youfccleit, cryto

him that hath promifed to takeaway this heart of ftone: what need I warne you how malicious the di-vellis, to dare (uch thoughts tfao-row us, as if feeing it will be no better,all* well enough?Your ftate is thus augmented, your credit in-creafed^your felfe more capable of further advancements andconteat-metrts in that kind; feeing you lived kindly with hcr,and it is Gods pleasure, who can undoe that which is done ? The Lord rebuke him for you. O turne from ftch curfed thoughts which tend to this, that you may be kept fhmbering and fkeping, till God (end forth lbrae heavier fummons for the awaking of yon. Now for your helpe this t way J have ftnt you a letter which I have long intended, but hitherto havebeeoeprevented: The Lord bleflc it unto you. There be two extremes under Gods hand : the one is to fee light bv it, the other is

N i to

mm

The

mcancm a

ijflfttion*

Co droopc too much under it. Now | you ma A go in the midft; rake ic to heart,buc wicb hope 3 kno wing chat it is good to bcare the yoke., and that it (hall be well with fuch as wait filently upon the Lord : and therefore fay with Micha, I wtB bean itjktctufc IbdveJinmed.Think your heavenly Father, that God that is love it fclfe, hath put this cup into your hand, and fay with ChtiRySbaB I not drinks the cuf mj Ftther bath put into my h**d ? For our bodies good we drinkc things which make us fee many a fbwre face on them; what (hall wee not welcome for our foules health?Yet asyou inuft let it downe, and humble your foule, Co you mud comfort your ftlfe another while,there is mercy with him that he maybe feared. It is good to intermeddle reftoratives of /pirituall ftrength,, which may raife up the foule in true comfort^as wellas otherwhile to beate downe our foules in thought which may humble them*

The

(jod affiiUs to bumble, and

The Lord hath given you from time to time pledges of his fatherly care over you:yea,fiich by which you may gather, that he will never forfake you; whom he lovech, hce Iovcth to the end. Yea, this is his great love,andheoffereth himfelfe as aFather to you, that he will not let y our fpiric goe at randome, but correfteth the thing amifleinit; that he bring you to be partaker of the q iet fruit of rightcoufneffe, and Uue you from being condem* ned with thofe that are of unbroken heart,whofe harts never mourned for their fii. If you cannot fte this mercy, of this you muft not be difmaide; though it be night, wee (hall have day againe, yea,his love is the fame it w3s,though our feofe and feeling is changed. Sit licit in natos facia amjltrafarentHm^ Mms tamer* tqua mamt. I do a dure you in that knowledge of my God,that if you doe but favourably Judge your fclfe before him, and humble your fclfe iu his fight: if you will a

N 3 while

then to cmfortttt.

I

while count that ftate bcft when you fede your heart devoted to hir»; though the countenance be dcj ft, that great God that comforts the abjett, and exalcerh the humble, hee will exalt you and comfort you with true joy and prolperity. Thus inhafte I commit you to the Lord.

Your loving Brother, P. B.

37-

LOving brother;! know a word or two will be more welcome than continuall filence ♦ wherefore I will let you underftand how it is with us. My wifes infirmities doe continue with heviut fhcehath more ftrcngthj I thanke God, and the tiolent working of them is e-venpaft, at leaftrcflcih forafea-(on. It went, when I did write to you firft,exceeding hard with her ; but if the Lord give us faith, hee can worke above all wee can aske or thinke. It is good wee /hould

have

•.^i"^^""**

Wc ate dull andfltepy to Good.

have falfe fires (hot off fbraetimcs to flare np our flambring faulcs, wbicharc heavieto fleepe, though we be never lb wakened. Sometimes a coldncfle comraeth on our fpirits, which maketh them un-a#ive unco good^likeas it ig in the body, the heart is^flccpe (bmetime when the eyes arc open : fome-time wee take a nap in the loft of our hearts: fometime wee winke, by falling into unfruitful! courfts, idle words, parting good hourcs to no purpofe: the Divell hath many watcs to rockc our foules a(kep,by making us rejournc our good pur-poft^andtakedayiftillalictleflum-bcr,a little folding of the hands $ \f we efcape falling from grace, lufts unfrui f iIacflV:ifwe will not make delaies, bur fet upon good duties, yet even in the(c,our drowfie hearts make us nod oftentimes through indevotion.

Aod becanfc I am fallen into this Theame J pray you both take heed that your Souks be not thus oyer-

M 4 taken,

\

taken, chat the firft love, the graces which at any time you either have had be not leflened. Lookein the 13. of the Reveht. 26. and not? to husband our talents, orincreafe them* is the next fore-runner of judgement. Take heed of giving place to lufts 5 He tbatfervtth to hU fie/b D fh*llreapc defttuZthn 9 GaI,6. 8. Take heed of unfruitfulncfle: the tree that beareth not good fruit, is a tree that (hall be cur downe, as well as the tree that beareth bad fruit, and every idle Word (hall be accounted for: let nottheDivell prevaile with us to put offa good purpofe; quench not the Spirit, iThef.$. ip.delaie^if any where, here (hey are dangerous- let us fhake our felvcs up againft that indevotion and (pirituall fbth which will creepe upon us in doing good: benocflothfull, be fervent in fpirit: curled is he that doth the bufineflc of God haftingly, Bro-her, we that are the Lords, though wee are not in a dead flsepe with

the

Wet nctcU Summons.

1

the World,yet our (bules have the remnants offach a lethargic as chat wee are often napping in thefe kinds. The Lordhach need to fend one fummons for us fleepcrs,or we fliould be in danger by them. A* wake thou that fleepeft, ftand up from the dead, Chrift (hall give thee light j he that is the true light, the quickniog Spirit, having our nature glorious with him in the Heaven. The Lord our Redeemer, the qukkning Spirit, quicken our foules, and keepe them through faith in his power, to that Salvation which is laid up for us in the Heavens.

Your loving Brother, T*ui Bajnc.

LOving Brother,I havt received your letter ,ful of heavic reporr, but that our neede is 4ch that wee muft be made heavie with funilry

N 5 tempta-

a8 5

A

The ufe we arc to m&kt tfGeds hand.

temptations j our God doth not delight in beating us, but our neccfG-ticsinforceit:God hath taken from you an innocent and fwcet conforr, thcnaturall Narfe of your nurfery, a faithfull difpenfer ofyuur eft ate: in a word, a good wife* who did you good and not evill all her daks. Wee aire bereft of a Sifter, a Sifter indeede (as S. *Pa*l fpcaketh of Widowes) whofeloffe, though I beare more weanedly, becaufe 1 knew her more fparingly j yet it doth grieve mee Che is gone without any fruits of my love with her. The Lord teach us to be fcrvice-able mutually while weinjoy each other, that wee come not to wifli we had done fo. Brother^ it is my dcfire,3nd I will feek at Gods hands with a fafting for you, that bee would give yon repentance, and fpeake to your foule, humbled under his hand, that he will heale all with advantage. A great breach hath God made in your houfc,but his mending is better than bis making.

^ '

Repentance only Jfops Gods ungtr. 287

kiog.Idoubrnor,bntyouknowby this, r hat God doth call you to repentance- no bufh will flop the gap Co well^s humbling our (oiiles-and judging them in this fight: now this is an exercife that requireth entring into our owne hearts, and confidcring what evi lis have llept in our bofomes, efpecially in thofe wales which the finger of God doth point out more particularly: 'Devtr. go. i Kings 8. 47. 2. To get a fight and (enfe of Gods hand on U3,and yet of his mercy that we are not confumed. 3. From this feeling efpecially of his mercy, which is never taken from us in his chaftiftmentSjWe muft humble our (elves bycoufctlion, which giveth glory to God, and (hame to our (elves, by cenfuring our owne foules: as Ezek*26. 34. Yecfhall judge your (elves as worthy to be cut off: by crying for mercies., as T)avid y Tfahn. 51. And thus in humiliation come to him, and renew our covenants with our God.

now

1

288 1 Wit arefiibjiU to many temptation. I

Now of oui felves, wee arc full of indifpoiicion to this worktjand all thatconverfe aboutyou/m cooipa-rifon, will call you from this pra-ftice, in which onely is your true peace : and (o you bad neede co looke up co Iefus Chrift, who is made the Lord,chat hath all power in Heaven and in Earth, that hee may give hislfrael true repentance andforgivenefleoffins, ^#.5. 31. Efay 26. 12. Not thinking much to attend upon him, as the eyes of a hand-maid on her Miftrcfle: For who is like unto our God ? and what is more precious than the Grace of Repentance ? Againe, Brorher, know, that you have no wiicdome, to cawy your felfe as becommeth you under this great handofGJod : For on both hands the Divell will aflaile you, and the folly found in our hearts, doth make his Temptations more dan* gcrous j firft, to defpifc the Correction of God j:ftcondly,to count it irkcfome a cither to ward the

furl

fmarc off by impenitent rneanes,or to be fwallowed up with griefe, and filled with bitternefle^in enduring of it. Now for the firft, we doe k partly by inward fuggeftions; pcrfwading our (elves, that wee (hall weare the matter forth well enough, that wee are once agiine at liberty, and are in elcftion of fuch and fiich preferments, (if (uch things happen not to be 11 your minde, it is the God of 'Pact that keepeth them out:) (bmetimes a-gaine, by making this or that way delightful] unto uf; fufferingour (elves to be drawncaway by idle company,which are no better than the Divells Whiftle, to call us a-way from all favory courfe^ yea, j his MinftrclSjto lull us ia our fpiri-tuall Qumber.Now take heed hereof; for this were to dawbe 'jp the wall whh untempered Mortar: The eafe which is gotten this way, ii like 'he eafement of cold drinke to hot Agues, it would make a worfe thing breed • for that which

ftaveth

200 i Tht d*»g*r of deferring humiliation.

- | ■— ■ n - —*—~-—' —|

I ftayeththe working of mansPhy-

ficke,hurrech the body; which wc may conceive by application thereof to the foule, if wee will not imbrace our affii&ions patiently. Now, if you will not liften unto God, when he callcth on this manner, then hee will drench you with forrow, e(pecially three waies* Firft, hee will hide from your eye the remembrance of fuchthings,in which you may take comfort; yea, keeping you from tailing all the mercies of God, with which this correftion is intermeddled. Secondly, hee will helpe you with a Speftacle, and make you fee too big,both the prefcn handj and all old matters &circDmftances,whkh may make it feeme grievous* Thirdly, dee will hide from your eyes all comfortable hope of Iffue, which God is moft faiibfull to give* Now therefore, deare Brother, the Lord lefts grant you may finde favour in his fight, to efcape evill (bares. Make a venue of aeceiiky:

be

:!

mm

mm

The profit of Refmtance.

291

1

be not afraid to fee finne, and fccle thefhaartchererof; but remember withal],what the Law of the Spirit hath done in the courfe of your life: (hike your covenant anew, there is hope with our God; for all this, read Ez,ecb,2. 3. He is faithful! to give Iflue; yea, though hec make heavi?, vec he will comfort in the multitude of mercies, Lament. 3. 32. Turne from ir, as from the D:-ve]l,that would quench the fparks of your godly forro w and abjection before the eyes of your God. Take heed my Sonne, of defpifing and making lighter accounting irkefome,thcchaftiiemencofGod: If yee lacke wikdome, begge if; I will give r, and not reproach you,Heb.12.flames 1. 5. Ocry to God, that thus you may be guided. Should you not finde this grace, hec would quickly lay your honour in the duft, and we fhould hivec^ufetowcepinftcrettFare-will hi$ Ki:gdomc, farewell every tbicg. But if hee give you this, I

dare

^ —

The more we I$ve y tbe more ret grieve, j

dare aflureyou, all happineffe (hall follow yoa here, and for ever. Seeke bit Kingdome,ind all things ftull be caft upon you 5 Mattb. 6.

39*

MY deare Sifter, what thaokes doe. I owe to ray God, for his Fatherly conlblation, where-wirh hee doth comfort you ? The Lord increafc in mee brotherly love, and that grace, which may make mee fanftific him in all his mercy and truth, which I fee him fhew any of his children; efpecial-ly fuch,whom his providence hath endeared to me,above others. The increafe of your godly griefe,with freedome from diftruft, more than heretofore, hath nothing in it to be admired. The more wee love, the more wee grieve, that wee have offired any grievance to thofe uhom wee love. The more wee few ie Gods love in forgiving us,

the

se*&m*9*msa—sss*msF*s*a

^-

the more wee love againe : (hee lovcth much, becaufe fiieefindcth much i$ forgiven her 5 much love (hewed her firft. Diftruft hin-derethus from feeling Gods love: Gods love is eclipfed from us^ours is much enfeebled towards him; our love weake, our griefe for offending him, canaot come fo kindly from us 3 for this is proportioned to our love. Bleffed be God, who giveth you thofc groancs, af-rer his grace: God ackno wledgeth that which his Spirit fuggefteth. When wee bid our children (as Charity for example) fay, I pray youj Mother, givemeethis- we doe it notjbut when wee meane to give them that which wee teach them to aske. So it is with God: Hee doth not fend his Spirit to our hearts, to helpe us with groancs, but when hec meaneth to anfwer our defires: Hee that maketb us fa w, will make us reape. Hungric poore foules are glad, when they heare that meate is

toward

,

2?4 Cb f 'ft *MJ*t*sfie ihtirUnging.

coward them; glad when they arc invited, though yet their Knife is not laid on boord.Let this comfort you,Sifter,your Cbritl faich,Come whofo thirfteth, and drinkc till it ftreamech from yon, Iobn j. And the poore (hall eate, and be facif. fied, and praife my Name, Thry that fceke the Lord, their hearts fliallliye. The Lord repyce over his ownc Wort e, and continue it in you unto the end. Farewell.

Yoar loving Brother, PaulBajm. \

40.

DEare Sifter, yourcoufinDia-bdm returning, I cannot but in few words anfwer your Letter I received. I doc defire to be thanke-full for Gods truth and tender msr-cy towards yoi, and for making mee a Minifter of your Confohti-on : Though wee be unfaithful!, yet God will be found faithfull. I When

When wee through weakened?, follow him, noc challenging him with reverence^ concerning his good words which hee hath (]po-ken to us; when wee wait not on the performance of his proroifes; even then bee prevenceth us with his goodnefle; and for his Names fake, hec corometh leaping over chofe Mountainesof/tolw,T>i* all our indifpoficion, and unworthi-! ncfTe. He who is thus good to us, fo unbelieving; if we would mend our faith, how would he augment his mercies ? This falthfulncflfc of God (hould makeunbeliefe odious to u?,and caufc us to labour agaioft it, by looking to the Authour and finifher of our faith; even then, when through Gods gracious pretence we feele our fel ves in beft ta-king.For as \ man,who hath beene handled fore once with the Stone^, will labour to keepe it downe,and ,cleare himfelfe ofit,when now hee iswell^andtheFitover; fo,tnthis unbeliefe, having found how it

(hakes

(hakes us* when wee have the mod releafefromic, then muftweeftill be dealing with it: for though the 1 1( j Fitisceafed,yet thcfpirituallfick-1 (0 neffeftilllurkcth in us. Remember, good Sifter, how the Divell hath diftutbed your peace : how little things, not looked to more timely, have bred matter of g^eat grievance* Labour to have (tilt in tight that our naturall folly,which raaketh us remember our beating no longer, than the (mart Iafteth. Labour to heare your Chrift faying every day to your foule • I am that Saviour,who fave my people from fiane, I will be thy filvacion. Finally, ftrive to have a thankfull acknowledgement of Gods mercy towards you : Then flull your Peace be like the Sunne, which fhioeth brighter and brighter, till the height of it be attained.

My defire is to doc good to your

(bule, both in my pretence with

you, and abfencc from you. If you

.could marke your felfe, and let me

1 know

Wte muft profit by correBion.

know what mo ft biodereth you; where you finde your fclfe wea-keft, I (hould fie you better with advice, when God gave me ability to ponder that cftarc. I continue, Sifte^bcttcr than fomccimes I have becne, but held under the hand of God: For that painfull weakneflc in the bottoms of my body, doth flill follow mee. The Lord teach mee to doe his will, and indure his pleafore : And hee that will have finfull men joyne withCom&i-on, Nurture and Inftru&ion, hee make me profit by all his chaftife-raents. The Lord delight to make us ever with good hearts confefle his truth and mercy towards us. The Lord bleffe you with increafe I of comfort, and bleflc all yours, |with you.

Your loving Brother, Paul Bajne.

297

d:

M r-> \r w*v\

'j «_/*/#/ y

9 *s » *^ »

V

I

41.

LOving Sifter, I am glad that) God doth adde fbmewhat to your health; for I hope it is a | pledge of further favour.The Lord open our eye?, chat wee may fee] him to be our life, and the length of our daies.You muft not let wantj of company make you It Qz light-' fbme: wee u(e not company wcllj wheu wee are not fitted, by inpy-ing it,the more thankefully to for-beareit, whenthepleafurcofGod is, that we fhould be bereaved of it for a while. Your beft Husband, hee is with you (till, at Bed and Boord, ready to vouchsafe you the: fweeteft CommunionThe Lord of I his tender love draw you after him, and fpeake peace and falvati-on to your (pirit. I have kept from you the extremity of my Vifitati-on -, but the Candle hath not gone out by night, fince theThurfday after my cemming from you: till

within

Submit to Gods Rod.

2 99

within theft two nights, for a ;ood fpacc,I hare beene forced to uve fome watch by mce. Yet, Sifter, thefe arc but the beginnings )f forro wes, thefe are not the fick-lefles that I have long looked for. The Lord make mee precious in his fight, to be made able to fuffer and doe every thing in his Chrift. My heart followeth God, defirous to be taught of him wholly, to endure all his plcafure. I thanke you for your loving re-membrance^ which you ftill have of mee. The Lord ftirre up ray heart, that I may remember you to him, and that I may be ready to helpe you with whatfoever Office of true love (hall lie in my power. Thus with my love remembred, I commend you, and all my Coufins with you to the gracious protefti-| on of the Alcnighty.

Your loving Brother,

Paul Bsjnt.

42.

LOvc is a thing we may lawfully owe; and becaufe this is a fruit of love to confidcr one another, and prcvoke to good workes, to exhort one ancther,that we be noc hardened through the deceitful-nefle of fin: Therefore I wifh that orfcer things not neglcfted,my love may be moft frunfull in this kinde. i Let me then call to your mind the duties you know welU that you may more and more beapra&ifcr of them. The Scripture, 2 Cor. 13. 5. 6. biddcthus prove our feives, and telleth us, that if Chrift be not in us, wee are counterfeits: It be-commeth us therefore, to fee on what ground wee (land, thatvvee may make fare worke with our God. If falfe gold walked abroad, weedould not take a Piece, but trying it; fo wife wee are, that we may not be deceived in earthly things, when wee hand over head

admit

fVe may hp$r* whether we be Chrijfs*

admit any :hing as currant iichc way offal virion. Now wee may eafily knowifweebeinChrift, or Chrift ici us: for as where the Sua (hint th ic may be decerned hence, becau/e the darknes doth difperfe, all things are lightfome: Even fo, where this Sao of RighteoufhefTc ftiineth, the darke clouds of ignorance aid fianc are fcatrered., the' light of knowledge and grace fhi-neth,! f you be in Chrift, yoa have cracifiedthefl.fh, withtheluftof ir^ </*/. 5.24, If you be in Chrift, you are a new creature, 2 Cor. 5. 20. Wherefore, Brothcr^becaafe I know there is little wind abroad todnue this Mill, the Lord by his Spirir worke all things for us.

Your loving Brother, Ptul Baync.

O 43, Well

womtn grape.

■s-rs!

45

Ell, you fliould let nice heare from you 3 and know how, you feele your foulc affefted; who can fie a ftiooe that k ioweth not the foote 1 how can I fie you withhelp&Ucounfcll, while you conceaie from mee your daily condition > You would not willingly have a PhyficiaQ preterite blindfold, roving in uncertaine without a marke;but you care not what you put upon my invention. Brother, how do you feele your foulc every day ? doth it grow up in the life of God? hath it more defire of him, thought cocerning hinynorc love, repenrance, holy fliame-faftnefie? If the body be. in au Atrophy, and not like, what meanes (over wee u fed, what a grief e would it be unto us > (hall wee not grieve if our fbules grow not up in the life of graee? Doe you feele fome little good thing more than you have

done

The life nf grace requires

done heretofore ? ic muft comfort us, and wee muft confeffe it with thanks, giving to God glory. If we mention by Letter, and bleffe God in our bodily health, how much more muft his kindncfle in our (bules be acknowledged? I pray you let me & you fall into Letter-colloquies of this nature. Brother, the life of Grace in the heart doth-askedaity diligence to maintaiae it. Doeyou not fee in nature, ^4**-mwtis ctt)u[<fc vit*efiftig4 f Were it not for the repaire by nutrition, the naturall life would be foone cxtinguifhed. Sodoryounotfeele the life of God in your fbule ? you cannot find any vigor of it (boner, than you lhall fcek a fecret cxhau-fturc and decay creeping upon you. Now as wee take bodily refe&ioo daily, and count it not grievous, fo wee muft workeupon our hearts before God, that we may feele6y this means,firom himadaily renewing of the beft ftrength in us. The good God of nature hath put a de-

O 2 light

303

*M*

I

■ u p

Daily nourishment

l'gbtin thofe bodily furiftions, in w ch is the preservation of our per-fons^this makes us not abjeft the j butbecaufe our foules are to the meanes of grace, as a ficke ftoraack is affefted to racate., becaufc it is painfull a little to us^thercfore the belt duties are fore-fbwed. The Lord fave us from this fl )th of fpi-rit,we will eatc without appetite : one bit, they fay, will drive downe another. Let us doe thus with our fbules,and we fhallfinde that eaiic which hath feemed painfull.Without cracking the (hell, wee cannot come to the kernel!. The Lord kcepe you in his feare and favour.

44*

GOod Mafter ZW. I cannot but write unto you, things going as they doe, though other-wife I fhould have uftd fortae forbearance, becaule of roy Xmploy-ments. The firft part of your Letter did re Joyce race, and the latter

grieve

The vtyce ofthaukfgiving.

305

grieve me: For I defirc to pra&ife the duty of remembring the affli-ftcd, as if my felfe were affhtted hi body; according as wee are commanded, Hebr. 13. 3. I am glad God huh noc onely kept you hi-tFurco, but (lied into your heart his Fatherly love in Chrift r fo thn you vow (through his grace) thankful-nefle anro the end, A voyct taught by Gods Spirit; for you may fee the fame working in the hem of the Prophet, on like experience 1 of GoJs goodie ffe: PJal. 146.2. [wiflpfjife the Lord'tinting my life, as long as J have iny being, J will fwg to ny God. It is a feemcly thing to breake out into thofe voyces: what fhall wee give the Lord for all his benefits (hewed to us? Deliverance isc omforcuble, but Gods loving kindncfle is better than life. Therefore wee muft bow o'Jr knees to the Father of our Lord Jtfus Chrilt, that wee may know more tin? love of God in Chrilt, which paflkch all know-

O 3 1 fV

u

306 J Whom God loves 6nce 7 he loves ever.

ledge. It was Gods great mercy to let you drinke of his favour in any meafure, before hee changed his right band; I mesne his dealing with you: for whom hee once lo-vethjthere is nothing (hall for ever make a (eparation betwixt his love and the party. Neither life, nor death^eithcr any thing prefent^or any thing which may fall out hereafter, (hall be able to feparate us from the love of God in Chrift: for all Gods gifts, his love, and the fruits of it, concerning that be tec r life, they arc without repentance. You rauft then not let your (elft be too much caft downe, but comfort your felfe in the Lord your God. I pray you reade the firft of Sam. the 30. Chap, and the 6. vevf. I am not ignorant M r . Dowfonjhn a wife is very neere, and fo a husband to a wife. lin part confider it,though I cannot weigh it as I (hould.Againe, I know that even the deare Saints 1 of God have not beene able to bridle this paflion: lacob would

goe

Be not fixed on esrtbly thing r.

goe weepiog to the grave after his fonne, and would not be comforted. Yet wee muft know what is the will of our God : namely, that feeing the fafhion of all earthly things paffeth away, and feeing that through Chrift he doth cover oar fpirirs, and give us hope of a better enduring life : that therefore wee fhould rejoyce, as if wee rejoyced not; and weeps as if wee wept not; wee fhould not ovsr-much be afik&ed with the poffefling or removall of thefe things which are Earthly,

307

FINIS.

[SOLILOQVIES:

OR,

A HOLY HELPER in Gods Building,.

Written in a Letter

byM r . Paul Bayme, iomctime

Preacher of Gods Word at Saint

Andnvces in Cambridge.

EfFe&ually inflru&ing, and earneftly provoking ro true Re-

pecuncc, Love, and. new

Obedience.

The fourth Edition 3 inlargeil by a more perfeft Cupie,

LONDON,

Printed by E.G. for 1. N. and are to be

(old by Sam,Enrlerbyu\ Topes-Head-

AUc), at the SigneoftheScar, 1637.

k

==

The Preface to

M. IORD.

LOving 'Brother, nature her felfufuch it School. tnifireffe, tbatffieteacb-etb her Creatures induflry in their kind:the dumb elements are carried about frith indefatigable motion: The Ant, and other creatures, are ex* ceeding induflrieus. As nature maheih a man incline to atlion j fo mfedome maketh him to choofe hti yporke, to leave that "which ii dead and to leffe advantage, and to choofe that "which u mofl

com

mm — ■ • ■;

. •'.** «■ J t

THE PREFACE.

commodious. Humane wife-dome {unable to go beyond h*r compare) can but point us to civiQ human works jbefruit wherofu a good proportion-able t to wit,civil or external,. The wifedome which if from above and heavenly guide\th our hands to a higher plough, and biddeth m exercife our felyes ingodlineffe, meeting God with repentance, fiir ring up our heart J, that they may be affeclioned towards him. And becaufe the worke it tranfeendent and of higher nature than thefcfecular\and Wee are ready to thinke with

Peccr,Mrf/?ir,ip; do tbmand

thus, j

•+&mm*T*~*i*

mm^tmmi

THE PREFACE.

tbuf y what (ball wee haDe< God {that wee might better like the work)dotb mend cur wages^ajjuring us tbatgodll nejje u great gaine of itfelfe, bringing content mentyeajje I dotbpromi/e us the things of\ this life, and oft bat which is to come jfwe will learne thu occupation, Now he that wil increafe grace andgodlincjjc in his heart, mujt labour hi> foule this way with wreflling and contention. It is not eye-ry walking and moving in a Cbriflian courfe, by which trace ii augmented More (en i Die j but flirting ourfelyes up, and putting fo jot tb the

grace

THE PREFACE.

grace "free haye, that injome fort -%>e feel the utmofl it Drill reach totas natural} ft renph is not increafed with eyery fedentarj motion.that tsfuch fiirring 3 as is next to fitting ftill, but "frith fuch exercife, which if it be not ad fudo teyet is,ad rubbrem^ here it is mo ft moderat Wher fore as you "frould haye thefoule thriye,breathe it well in meditation, and other duties of deyotion. Wee haye indeed ftiffeakingjoints % thatpaine us to ft ir in this kind: but the more -warmth wee get, the more all griefe "frill be abated. No^fr there is no one branch

of

***

THE PREFACE.

of devout exercife more fruit-full than that of Soliloquie , wherein we commune with our owne foules, and excite them towards God. Words ferve not onely to make knowne the conceptions of our minds, but to give glory to God who under-flandeth our thoughts afar off; and to blow up devotion^ and kindle our cooling affections to • wards him. Inordinatpafsions come likefoule weather Jcefore wee fend for them, they often \ present all attion oj the will: but good affebl ions are fo overlaid with fin which compaffeth us about, that if wee gather not wind under their wing (fo

ponde-

THE PREFACE.

ponderous tbeftejhis)they can* not mount up to the purpofefor the warrant of this duty, wee haye both precept isfpratlics^ take "Words to your fe foes ', H o i . 15. j.Hcb.;. 1;. Examples both facredj?[a,\.^z n.Gen. 14.4 9. andEcclefiajticall ^Iuftinf., and many others.To leadeyour

*

band in this matter Jgfoe you this letter •, "which containeth a forme of Soliloquies fer"Ping to further your daily repentance^ and found affeclion towards God -, keepe it for your private ufe. And the Lord.Iefm 3 the quickning Saviour, be with it to the end above named.

Tout Iov;ng Bf othery.

'Pttut Bayru.

- -

g fc&a ^

X2ffi£2g&

HOLY

SOLILOQJ/IES:

O R,

A Holy Helper in

Gods Building.

EElireinthelaft, and rooft perilous times, in which the power of god-lindfeis much decayed; and. Love, Mat.2^. 12. through abundance of iniquity, much cooled. Now, j there is no one thing which more breedcth this consumption of Grace,and growth of he contrary, than the want of fuch Spirituall Exercifes as awaken grace, and renew the ftrengthof it in us, from one degree to another. For as not

blowing,

the benefit ef Soliloquies.

- i -——— ■ < ii ■ ■ »^————

blowing, briogs the firetobcex-cinft in time, no le0e than the procuring ofcold Waterto be poitfired upon it: Co the (1 athfull^ not row-fingupthemfelves,killcthgracc,as well as the wilfall, living in fame knowne fii; death followeth upDn both. The difference is 5 one is violent and fpeedy, th£ other is (as we fpeake of Consumptions) gentle, and lingring, but ho leffe certaine. Now, chough there are many meanes whereby the foute doth ftiakeupicfelfe, yec thctefcaatte more fruitfully than for a Chtiftbtn to accuftome himfelfc to S'vliU-qnh) taking words to our ieltfcs, between God and our owuefoules. Words ferve not onely to open bur minde, that others may cohceive our meaning, but to honour God ("who undcrftandeth us, without chem)and arejasit were 2 Bsllowes to blow up our affeftiobs, ttfhfcn their devotion coolcth. Sinful pa£ (ions Will prevent oUr Wills, and come (as wee fay of foulc Weather")

thcr) before they are fine for. But for holy affefttons (fo ponderous is our corruption, which preffeth downc) unkfle wee Lbour the thing with our heart?, they will not rife to any purpofe ia us. God therefore hath commanded it unto us \ and complainech, when it is negle&ed. Hof.iq. 2. Take words to your (elves : None awaketh himfelfe to lay hold on God: None faith, Jercm. 8. 6. What have I done* And the moft excel tent men of God have abounded in fo-litary Conferences with God and their Soules; as both facred and Ecclefiafticall Story teach* by the examples of Vavtd, and others, Saint tsfujien, Anfelme^ and Bernard. The fruite of this Exercife, hath made mee fct downe (for the hclpe of Novices, who have 'not becne exercifed this way) a Forme of Wor^, which might containe fit Soliloquies, to further us in found Repentance, an J good Affr&ions towards God. Firft,

there-

3 20 Gods judgements call for repentaxee.

therefore, to dcale with you in Repentance* then, to hclpe you forward in Love, and new obedience. The Lord preacheth Repentance ft ill unto us. If a Meffenger knock at our doore, and anfwerbe returned, he Is gone forthwith to thefe that fent him. So, if the Plague,} and fuch like Mongers, which God fendech to us, had that which they corns for,chey would not ftill ring the Bell at our doores, and call upon us. Neither doth God wait for Repentance onely from the wicked, but he would have his deareft Children meete him, condemning themfelves, Luke 13.5. If yce repent not alfo more and more, when yee fee the examples of Gods wrath, yet {hill alfo perifh.

Firft, to (hew you what this is, I {hall by this meanes ftirre you up unto it more fruitfully. By Repentance,! cweane nothing elfe, but \ godly forrow for finne^ wherein the 1 foule

"he Nature ofRcpence.

321

I

foulchumbfeth ic £lfe before God, and commeth home to him. It is not a worldly fonow,Iike theirs in Hofesj. 14. which maketh us whine, becaufe the World is hard; nor yet a hopelefie griefe,for feare of puniftiment : but a griefe for finoe, as it difpleafcch God ; whole love through Chrift, wee have felt (hed in our hearts; whofe mercy wee Qe ic i?, that wee are not con-fumed; yea, whofe fatherly aff&i-on doth feeke to call us home by loring Corre&ioru

Now in tlrs furrow, thefoule doth humble it felfe : For this is the nature of Repentance; it will make us takefhame to our (elves, parcly 3 by feafonable acknowledgement of thofe waies, wherein we have moft provoked God 5 partly, by judging our fdves as worthy to be cut off, that we may find grace in his eyes, and not be con-demned : And together, with grieving and abafing it felfe, the ftray-foule commeth home to God,

pur

:i

Wi mnfi grieve fer om failings.

purposing through his ftrength, to leave thole courics wherein ic hath grievgd him, and to cleave to him in all his Commandemenfs. Looke then, if entring into your ownc hearts, yee finde, that as much as hath beene amiffe, by difpenfing Gods mercy and patience, yea, his goodnefle, giving you the Call of his Word, and Corre&ious; yee are grieved, that yee have beene fo unki;>de an uid-utifull to fo kinde and carefull a Father. Ifyeefiade, that where it is to his glory, yee love to confefle your unfruitful-ne(Te,and to condemne your fcl ve5, and doe with a true purpofe of heart, ftrike a new Covenant with God,to forbeare your owne waies, to walke more fruitfully before him,fo far re as his Grace (hall pre-ferve you in the one, and ftreng-then you in the other (for all our fufficieacy is from him:) if yee find thefe things in any meafure, then rejoyce; for God hath given you Repentance^ to eternal! life. But

if

Sofball Godcmfortus.

if your hearts have negieftcdthis excrcifeof a broken fpirit, and if your confidence cell you,th tf there hath beene little or no gricfethis, way, then yee muft be intreated, that whiicft it is c lied today that Godsgracedothftill invite you,v c c would not harden your hearts, but prepare to meete him. W^epenot for me, bur for your tins, (aichour Saviour, Luk^ 23.28. And bkfled are they that mourne in this kind: the Lord carrieth an hand-cher-chicfe to wipe away thefeteares; he is nigh to comfort thefehearts : thefc April-dewes bring Mayflowers ; (uch as fbwe in teares, (hallreapc in joy. Is it not better for us, to take the rodde into our owne hands, and beate our felves gently,than force the Lord to cha-ften us, who is a confumiog fire > If the Lord fce, that wee are but willing to caft downe our felves, and to deale with our owne foules, hee will cover our heads in the evil! hourc, whereas his negligent

Children

■ ,*■

T)el+yr.ott$reftnt.

,

Children (hall tafte of his temporary difpleafure. Delay not this : Oar fouleyn f^ervingfrom God 5 are like Bones out of j rpnt; the longer they goc fo, they prove more painfull; if we uke them berime, they are fee more eafily, Wc will take Phyficke,purge,orfwear, to prevent the growing of a difeafe upon our bodies t (hall we not be wife then for our fbules? Thevc-mic of the fbule, is the griefe of Repentance: take it betimes,drive it not off, til! the Lord be forced co vifi r . Now if God give you to defire^ that your hearts were broken in his fight, but yet yee finds it will not be, partly for the hard-ncfie of your hearts, partly for other lets and impediments: I will helpe you a little at this life- firft, giving you rules for the out-wrcft-ling of impediments; fecondly/or the blowing up of our devotion in this exercifej which of all fa-crifices is the mod acceptable. Now for hiaderances, yec muft

make

CMany lets to Repentance.

make account to meet with them, if ye purpofe moreferioufly to call yonrielves to a more ftraight reckoning for your wayes. Somtimes inward indifpofition wilgrow upon you: Againe, the Diveil will want of his will, but fome finne or other fhall fo clofe with your foules. which will, like aThorne caught in the foote, hinder your intended journey. If yce elcape thefe,hcwilliurthet ply you with diftra£ions from things, andper-fons, which are without you; This or that is neceflfarily to bee done; One or other is to fpeake with yoi* Furthermore > if yce looke fcrioufly to this good way of Repentance, he will fuggeth What needeth fuch adoe ? God is more mercifull, then to require fuch ftraitcourfes. Whom doe you fee to vex thcmfelves in fuch a manner ? Yea, fometimes hec makes the enrrancedifficult,and comfort-leffe, to fee if bee candifmayus

I ' from proceeding. Finally, he will P harpe

3*7

.

Helpes to orecome th-e

harpe much on this firing: Wilt thou bid adue to thy plcafurcs^and betake thy felfc to fo painfull a courfe? And this is the Loth to depart he fingeth to the foule that i looketh towards God: firft > to fpeake ingenerall to them; then in particular* to this laft and main detention. Now > that we may iafely pafle thefe Rockes* wrmuff firft ferioufly confider the malice of the Devillagainftus* who by all poflible means h$ can^oppolcth the comming-acquainted with ithis exercife. While we are in our own wayes? thecoaft is cleare enough: but when God giveth us a good motion and purpofe , the Devill doth watch it,as one fhoufd an infantrfhat he may kill it in the Cradle> yea, fmother it in the Wombe, where it was conceived. Thus* Lord, when thou fendeft by thySpirit,a motion intoour beartl for our foules healtfbhe labourerh to make us quench the Spirit* and ft) to double our Condemnation.

Now

foggeflions ofSat*n K

Now then^feeing the malice of the Devill * ye muft labour (fecondly) to feele your own weaknefle, thac there is no ftrength in you to encounter with the enetry* and fay thus to your felves: Lord, thou know eft it* I have no ftrength of myfelfe; nay * I have chat which prefleth me downe > which would make me thinke * there is a Lyon in this way* and flip my necke out of this Collar* though t^cre were no other with-ftanding me* nor ought without me* that fhauld let me: How then (hould I be able to goeover fomany things* without affiftancc ? Then ye muft* in the third place * looke up unto Chrift by the eye of Faith(finding the Devils oppofic ion, and your owne infirmities) who giveth not onely the will to us*but the deed* and worketh all our works for us. Speake to him * and fay: Lord, thou canft help me; & as thou haft put this into my mind, and taught me to know this piece of thy

v P 2 hoy

33O I Rch on Godrfo takeaway thcUts*

holy will, fo I intreate thee to ac-complifh it in me: it is not I, but thy grace in me, which muft efteft all. Asa Childewh© goethwith his Father, led in his hand, if hee come to a Stile, or Bridge, he will cry to him, to take him and lift him over; fo muft we to our heavenly Father,cry to be taken up, a-boireall thefe hindrances. This is an excellent remedy;when we behold Seasfcefore us, mountains on each fide, Armies of enemies be-hinde us, all hindring our going forth of our felves; and in all,the Devils power : thentoftand ftill, andlookcfor thefalvation of the Lord. And here it is good to think on thefe quickning places of Scripture : Enter in at the ftrait Gate , Cfrtatth. 7.15«Nay,Striveto enter in; for many (hall fcek to enter in, and fliall not be zb\z>Luke 13,24. Sceke firft Gods Kingdomc, and therighteoufneffe thereof, Matth* 6*33. One thing is necefTarie,!^ 1 o • 4 2 • What if one could get the

whole

Berefolntem l^epentaxce.

331 1

J whole world, if hee lofe his ovvne Soule ? CMath-i 6.16* Narrow is the gate that leadcth unto Iife>and few there bee that find it, Mat, 7, i^Laftly^yemuft think,how if yc appoint to bee with this or that man, but for fbmc twenty Nobles matter, (in which (perhaps) yee gaine not a Pound cleirly)nothing ftiall let you: if this or that of leile moment be out of order, ye fee k s and fee it not > yee have a greater gaine in fight: if any would hold youbacke, yee crave pardon, yee nave pointed by fuch an houre, to meetfuchanone. Then yee mull reafon thustShall I be thus refolute in executing my purpofe towards man^when I gaine fome limll mar-ter,and fhall I let any thing hinder me^when I am to go to God about the greatcft merchandize of my foulcs health?Is not this to be penny wife, & pound foelifh ? This in gcnerall. Now in particular. That yc may then out-grow thefcarc of parting with pleasure, and conceit

2 3 2 1 -fifr//tf again ft the maim let

'

x

i

of fo much heavincs in this courfe of repentance; ye muft firft know* that this is a jugling of Sata>wher-bv he holds men on in the vvayes offin^eto death. He will fhew us nothing but delight in evill cour-fes. hiding all the after bitterrreife of them* which fhouid bring them out ofrequeft with us : fo in §ood wayes tending to life* he will tell us of nothing but painKoncealing all the comfort of them/.hat io he may keep us from entring them to falvation. Secondly, we are worfe aifraid then hurt* Foolike as the nfing out of the foft bed* fcemcth beforehand to the fluggard exceeding tedious, but when he is once Ufhdothnotdarehimatall: So is the awaking from the fleepoffin,

I and flumbring in thereliques of luftjwhich (till have dwelling even in thebeft ofus.Who everreperr-ted him of repentant griefePNfay* whorejoyceth not in God who giveth it> finding it more fweet to his Soule) and more plcafant,

then

then the pleaf.re of finic > which I foon vanifhettaleaving a (ting be- 1 hind it ? Thirdly^if we try in a repentant courfc to leave theplea-furesoffins in web we fjave livedo they will iTiortly have no inch power ore us^as to hold u> thus hard: For Chrjfoflom doth fitly liken the to little Puppies* which while we play with the>will do nothing but leape about us > but if wccudgell them a little, have no joy to come neereus.Fourthly,we muft nr tlet paffioas blini our judgments ; but confider penitent forrow*with the end of it,aad impenitent delights with the iflueofthe. What is bit-tererthen medicine?Yet health,to which it bringeth us,doth make it lovely. What fweecer to our tafte, the manythings we wil nor touchy I becaufe we find they love not u*, though we love them,we are after-( ward the worfe for the.In this re-< £pe6tthertb:e,were the medicine 1 of repentance grievous to take*) et in regard of the evcria (ling health

P4 to

m

Qods ivAjes not grievous\

=**

I

to which it reftoreth us,we fli >uld like wife men, take the fower with thefweete; yea,choofe it rather, then to feed tweedy o i fuch meats as pleafechePalate only while they are talted^ but caufe at length vomits more bitter then death.Fifch-!y;(ay wefhould lofeour delights, (though we dial part with nothing but ftollcn waters)is it not better, as Chrift faith, we fhould want an eye heere,and go to heaven, then having it, to be caft into hell fire?

Kjfrtat. 18 9.

To conclude, this obie£ion is a (lander raifed upon Gods wayes, which are full of profperity and pleafure; and is forcible with us, partly, through flouth, which ma-keth us unwilling to thefe vvorkes (and what is not irkefome to a mind undifpofed ?) partly ,from ignorant fenfuality, which countcth nothing liberty, but licence, nothing fweet, but what is taken in huggermugger, without Gods allowance: like as fome gallants,

whicb

which think no Venilbn fo fwect as that which is ftoln. This in particular to the principal impedimct. Now for the furthering y cur devotion in this cxercife, yeemuft know, that there is an art blowing up of every grace of the ipirit,& of this with the reft. Firft therefore, yee rouft enter into your owne hearts, confidering jour owne| wayes,Wewill keepe reckoning whatwerunneon rhefcore with men, but rare who thinke how deepely they are in Gods Bookes: fuch ill husbands are wee for our Soules. Now we muft hecre mark warily, whether we have rot loft fome graces we have had(Imcane have themnoc fo powerfully as we have felt them ) whether we doe not give place to flouth, doing Gods fervicc coldly and flightly; whether we have not forgotten our covenant made with Gcd in Baptifme>ro wir>of dying to nur ownthnrohrs,w f ords&deedsdji-ly;and laboring in our whol courfe

P 5 that

■• ,

■■' ■»■

3j 6 ! We mvfi call to minde>onr great eft

that not now we live,but Chrift in us(as Patil fpeakcth)his fpirit teaching us to do every thing as before him, and in confcicnce of his will, to his glory. Heerealfoye muft cat tomind the moft grievous finnes which ye at any time have provoked God with.We muft not bid adieu to the remembrance of our finnes paft and pardoned, but muft ever bcare them in memory fo far re forth as will help us to the working of godly forrow , holy b lftifulneflc & lowlincfieof mind; fofaras may be a fpurre to more fruitfull obedience for the time to comtfDeu. ;.Yea this remembring of the Srine paft in particular > by which we have chiefly offended God> and mourning for it, & judging our felves in the remembrance of it,is the evidence of true effectual repentancerSo Ifrael acknowledged their defiring a King: So David his adultery andmurther: So Paul his perfecting. He who is true'y humbled in the fight of

fmSi & our daily fwervtng

s.

337

one capitall finne 5 repentcth of all. Even as a capitall difeafe being take away, which draweth on many another by content .the reft are at once removed alfo Again,we muft calltomindeour daily fwervin^s and unfruitfulncfle. This is.theo-pening and the looking on our wounds, the negleft whereof is lewdcarelefneffe, mortallydan-rerous.lt is no news,nor yet mif-likcd when you fee a ibuldier fhot or wounded : but to fee him go withit,nevcr regard it .never drefs it, is condemned as defpjute fol-ly:So/or us fighting in this world, no newes , if we come by knocks and maimes; but to let them go, and ranckle, & fetter in as, is forlorn neghgence.Now then jfthus fcttingth. matter before you , ye find not your hearts pricked with it, then you muft ( as tfcL Prophet fpeaks) take words to your felves, and trouble your own foules , fay-ing-, thus; Shall I think ofmy fins againftGod, and not grkve for

them ?

3 5 2 | Rub up the Sonic to Repentance.

them ? If 1 have overfhot my felfe, fo chat men may have a faying to me,that doth cut me to the heart* and I am adiamcd. If fomwhat do but crofle my corrupt- nature >I have griefeatwilh and fhalll not now grieve for offending my good God? If I had broken day* Scnot kept touch with mani I could not look him in the face; and (hall it not go neer with me > that I have kept my Covenant no better with God ? if my fervant have loyte-red his day away>aadnot done my work*heblu(heth>and isafFraidto comtbefore me; and (hall I not change my countenanced be moved* that I have bin fo unprofitable in the workes of God ? By this meanes; as men being in Iwoanzo when thoy are chafccLdoccome a-gaine: fo (hall our foules* while we thus beftirre them * finde (brae warmth returning to them, This is a frwit* aud furtherance of the grace of Repentance; whereas the want of thefe Soliloquies, is rc-

proored I

Go to thrift for a relenting heart. |

prooved as a token of an impeniJ cent hearts Hof. 7, 2 ♦ But if yet the heart will not relent* you muft in the third place (feeing your bar-rennefleand inability) turne you toChrift, fpeaking in this wife : Were it to grieve at earthly occasions,or that my (elf were difplea-fed>here my affections would com to mz before I fent for them: but for god !y forrow^none of it grows ii our gardens; our foolifh hearts love not holy mourning; our hard hearcs wil not relent to think how we difpleafe thee* We therefore knowingrfhat there is no (treagth in our felves* to any thing that is good,lookc unto theetthou art the Chrift and Lord > thou givett Repentance to thine lfrael > and for-giveneffe of fmne*: thoH LORD doeftcircumcile the hcjrtj thou hammereft and breakeft the ftone by thy Spirit > making it flefhy and tender; LORD doe thou turne us, and we fhall be turned* Lament. 5 >n. Thus while ycturn

your

Thefmoal^ingjiaxi

your eyes to Jefns the quickening fpirit,he will be prefent co quicken this grace in you. But what if yet your hearts (hould not fo kindly melt within you,as yedefire, yet all is fafc: for this is the fmoke of repentance which Christ will not leave till it blaze forth;he will not put out the fmoking week* This defircand labouring after it, is happineffeit felf: for blefled are they that hunger and thirft after righteoufncs:Yeaufingthis couife to confidcr ofyour wants to chide (after fomefort) your own foules, and to look after Chrift the giver of repentance; the ftone of your hearts(the hardnes)wilcome away by little and little. Yea,and when in bodily wounds the mo(t aj proved plaifter mtift be laid on often; ye muft not thinkcthat thefe fpi-rituall evils, fo long growing on us>fhoaldbegone on a fudden. 1 do befeech you therefore, as e-verye willtafte the comforts of God; as ye will finde eafc in the

cvilj

Gods Covenant.

cvill houre, when nothing, but God cm refrefri you •, yea > as yee love to efcape much worldly ibr-row 5 which tendeth unto death;fo acquaint 5 our felves betimes with this exercife of a broken heart* Bleffcd are they which ( now ) mourner fortheyfhallbecomfor-tedf And we know much more earthly forrow then we fhould* becaufe we will not trouble our owrrfoules a little , blowing up that godly forrow which is required at our hands.

Now followcth another thing which I propounded, viz* to helpe you forward in new obedience? in the faith full keeping of the Covenant* The fumme of the Covenant betweene God andus,isthis ;GodinC hrist faith, he will take us for his people : we promife him , that we will have him for our God. This therefore doth comprize all our dune to God, that we fcthim up in our hearts as G o d. Which

^ing

H*

How to have God ohy God.

thing wc doe*firft* when we grow up to know him in all things* Secondly, when wee mak*.'him our truft. Thirdly when we love him above all things. Fourthly* when we ieare him. Fiftly* when were-joyce in him. Sixthly* when our hearts are thankfully affe&ed to him* making him their fong and praife.This is to have him for our God;vvhen We know nothing,truft in nothing* love* feare* rejoyce in nothing in comparifon of him: when our hearts are thankefull above all to him. Tofpeak a little to the feverals.

Wc cannot have God our God> till w^ come to know him in Chrift. Ignorance doth cftrdnge ns fromGod 3 & knowledge doth acquaint us withhim/This Pau/pt&i-eth for in thebehalfc of his Co-lo(Tians 3 that they may be filled wich the knowledge of God, the fpiritsof their mindsbeing opened to look toward him. Even as our image in the glafle doth looke toward

How wee mufl know Cjod.

ard usjfromwhom ic is refle&ed: > God his Image in us doth make ic eyes of our minds view him* le author of it in us # And as the ye becommeth one with that r hich it fecth>and is after a fort in lac light it behcldeth: fo are wee y the vifionof God* wjiich is be-un in us > one with him* and in im,Now this knowlcdgconfide-eth God three wayes; either fim-!y an art from all other refpe&s > nd thus it containeth the Spiri-lal effencein refpe&of his proper-ies* into which this felfcfame na-jre is diftinguifhed ; the Father* onne*and Holy Gholkallofthem laving the fame fpirituall effence: sif h and you with feme third ian*mightbefuppofedtohaveal! »ut one and the fclfe fame rfoule nd body * being dift n& per-3nsX)r elfe it confidereth God*as nademanifeft in eur nature : for [efus the Sonne having the fame uture with the Father* hathta-cen fuch a foule and body* as wee

hare

MS

«k

Kncrw GocLin Jfipts Chrifi.

have (fin onelyexcepted) to the fellowfhip of his perfon; and thus is become Emamel * God with us or God manifeft in our nature. In which humane nature > God the Son (iiftered death for asin which likewife hemanifefteth his divine power* bjyraifing it up> and glorifying it irnieaven* S© that he that was dead in his humane nature^is now alive in it for ever, having fwallowed up death in vidtory. Laftly,itconfiderethGod 3 mani-fefted in Chrift, as he is become our God by covenant,in regard of fuch things as his faithful mercies do work for us. He in Chrift is our juftifier > our fand^ifier; he who helpeth us in conquering the remnants of our naturall corruption; our Redeemer* who delivered us from all our troubles; the God that careth fcrus , gi-veth us every good gift, blefleth us in our eftates,feedeth us.giveth us,and all his beloved,{leepe,de-fendeth us from all evill, keepeth

us

We are natnrally blinde.

us by his power unto faivation, is the beginner & ender ofa'l good graces in us. But howfhortare we in this point ? We are like In-fants,in a manner.new-borm they are kept by the loving Parents from fire and water* they are fedy laid to fleep> made ready and unready ;>and fhifted in their fcapes; but they 1 now not who doth all this fortbem: fo doth our heavenly Father by us in Chrift; but (he knoweth) little undemanding have we of him: For though God beLi^htit felfe* a Spirit which brightly feeth all things in heaven and earth* to whofe pure bright-nefTe,the Sunneis darkneffe ;yet the weaknefle of our fight is fuchi that we cannot looke againftic: as the Bat and the Owlc cannot endure to fee the bright Beames of the Sunne in the Firmiment.

Ye muft therefore take notice ofyourfpirituall Blindnefie , and come unto him who felleth the Eye-filtc > which hath the Spirit

of

J4f

(jo to God for eyc-fahe.

of Illumination, who openetb the Eyes of the blindjcry to him for mercy. If your eyes were much bloud-fhot (your eyes wherewith ye fee but one another* Creatures like your felves) yee would feeke outforhelpe for them, and wafh them with ftrong fmarting Waters, but yee would reftorc them : And will yee not ieeke to your God in Chrift, to reftore the fight ofyourfpirits, wherewith ye may fee him, and the things ofyour peace within the veile, even in the Heavens ? Nay, ye muft bee afha-med, that yee take no more knowledge of your Gcd in the whole day, Ifourchi'drenjwhenweare b^fide them,{liouId through rude-nefleandcarelcfnes not oncecaft a look at us,as acknowledgiug our prefcnce; would we take it at their hands? Might not every one fay, Thefe were better fed than taught which are thus gracelefle ? Let us apply it to our {elves, who ferve our God and Father little better. /

Now

We ?ntifl trnfi in God*

347 \

Now that vvcc may fee upon this Suite with the better hope,let us remember that God hath promi-fed it unto us; this is his Covenant, wo fhall know him,from the greatefttothcleaftofus. But left I grow too ccdious,1 come to the fecond.

We muft truft in God, having all our hopes on his mercy and truth towards us; and thefc two goe together. Men fometimes,the more we knowthem>the leflewee truft them,and chat defervedly :but Pfalnie^io. Such as know God, (hall truft in him.

Who fo repofeth all his confidence in God, hee taketh him, in fo doing* for his God* As the Scripture faith in this refped^ the covetous man is an Idolater; hee taketh his money for his God,be-caufe he putteth his truft in uncer-taine riches *. his wealth is a ftrong Tower in his conceit* and he tru-fteth in the Creature>which draw-eth his heart from God> faich the

Pro-

Prophet*jkr-i 7.5. Teachings that then our hearts arc united to Godjwhen the affiance of them is fet on him «Now,thqgh we fliould live by the faith ofthe:*>n of God; trufting on him for the giving and maintaining of all our good, both temporal 1 & eternall; leaning on him for all defence>& deliverance from evils fpiritualb yea>and corporally calling all our care on him; having ne confidence in the flcftb but. rejoycing in Chrift Jefus : though this be our dutie, yet we are exceeding weake* and full of unbeliefc. this will appeare, by ©ur want of feare at the threatening* of Gods Word, which ma-keth us loofely alfo to looke after his promifes.Did webelceve fuch threatnings , If y e live after the fieili 3 ye fhall die ? we would rrcmblejwhe we favour our felves inourownwayes: the devils be-leeve^and tremble. And fo.trufting civilly in any mans word or bond, we do feek them carefully, and

are

I e#f ^r • hence Hnbeliefe,

arc glad when we have gotten them; and, as we fay, we write upon them, that we mall have fo | much money at fuch a day,upon a Yubftantiall mans word, or bond, given us. But God> who promi-fcth all good things in this life, as well as in the life to come, his Seales we feek not after; which is a figne of our great unbeliefe in them. Secondly, by reftingour hearts in outward things, and by being difquietad when we want them; this alfo is a figne, that our hearts are unbelieving*

While we have means, or good likelihood of this* or that, we are well; let thefe faile, we are troubled Which fheweth, that we reft not upon the Word of God, which is as fure in the want of all things as in abundanc ; butthat we leaneon fuch things as we fee, and have in hand* Suppofea man had Crutches under his armes^but leaneth not at all on the as he go-eth, take them away,and he vval-

keth

34P \

w —'

keth as before: So* did wee not truft* and lean on the things feen, but on God* who is not feen* looking on him by the eye of faith*we ihould goe as upright > when all things to fence feeme contrary to that we beieeve as when our feeling is fed abundantly Thirdly,did wee reft in God and tcult in him* who is all in all; we would feek to him for his blellings , more then for the meanest which by his blef-fingefteft this orthat;whereas we labour not to make him fure to us> but to get the means*and then we think al is wel with us.Now then when yee find your unbeleefe* yee muft make ft odious unro your felves by fuch likeconfiderations; Shall I feek after the word of man fomctimes>to fecure me but of fom twenty fhillings matter ? and flhal I not feek after the preciouspromi • (cs of my God?fhal I truft to a man promifingthis or that ? and fhall I not truft my God* who is truth icfelfe* and cannot lye? Will not

fucv

i/<w w w#y? /w^ ^0^.

fuch afubftantiall man chink much if I take not his bare word ? And (hall not I take my Lords Word, and Seale, and Oath? He hath fvvorne to bleflfe us, with all h s bleffings in Chrift: friall we not beleevehirm unleflfche leave us a pawnealfo? Thus then, when yee feele your unbeleeving hearts to trouble you,ye muft look toChrift, the authour and finifher of your faith.Speak to himthir: Thou haft begun, and thou muft finifh: I be-leeve; help my unbeliefe, and en-creafe ray faith.

The third point is, We muft love him. Love (we know) makes a tmn and woman , One; and the i fame doth couple ns to God. Here we muft labour to fay from our hearts; Lord, what have we in heaven.bntthee? or in the earth, companion of thee? Now

55i

in

•I

though we doe love him, yetour aflfe&ion is but weak; and above all'things, we had need to mend

I in this behalfe. Trie your lovc,and Q_ th:n 1

5 5 * I Try pur love to <yW, and

then judge of it. Thofe ye k>vc> doc yc not love to be prefent with them> as ye two ope witfc another? If one of you be out of Towne, doe ye not thinkc long till ye meet againe ? Are not we grieved to hearc them wronged by word or deed,whom we eftceme dearelyof? Doth itnot<:utus,if we our felves do them any harme? Are we-not glad of a Letter ( in abfence ) from thofe we love?Now then examine your felves: Do-ye not find e little joy, in comming privately or publikely into Gods houfe 5 or prefencc ? Nay, we are like children, who can play abroad all theday long>and never lock ini to their Parents. When do our hearts long to be diflolved* and to be with Chrift ? Though God* through fundrytroubles,doth even i fmoake us-ouc of this World, yet we will not come away, in our af-\ fcftions. When we heare Gods ' N tme bl *fphemed,and feeall wic-1 kedneflc committed, doe our eyes

IK

K

B

gufli

gufh out with tcarcs? Or doe we not j when our fcIves offend him daily>pafle it overtaking coo li^hc penance of our felves ? Doe we, wuh2)*z//^delight in his Statutes more than in all wealth? His Word is his Letter to us. By fuch like considerations, difcerning your ' waat of love to God 3 yee muft fhamc your felves. If a woman fliouldbedeadin theneft, when her husband were before her * but /hould be afte&ionate to every ftranger; If (lie fhould not care how long fhe were abfent from him> but think her felfe befhwhile they were afunder; ] f fhe cared little how her loving husband were offended, carting that at her heelcs , which he takes to heart; were not this fhameles behaviour in her? And (hall not we be adu-med to (hew no more love to rhee, to whom our foules are married in Chrift ? Then ye muft goe and confefle that your hearts are full of Harlotry , and falfe love. Ye can

C^2 love

354 | Concerning love to earthly

love your felves, ye have affe&ion enough to the things of this world; to the gifts of God } and thofe the meaneft 3 more than to the givers: as Harlots to Rings, Gold, Bracelets j more than to the fenders. Therefore, befecch him to purge your hearts ofthis,and to fill them with the love of himfelfe: for this is the promife; I will circumcife your hearts, and make you love me with all your'hearts. Before we jpafle from this Head, aQueftion may be moved, common to all thefe afte&ions-; namely ,Wbat we may judge of our felves>feeing our hearts more fhinein love,fear, and joy at worldly things > than about God, and the great benefits given us in Chritt ?

The anfwer is: Firll, in many earthly things we have a double caufe working in our afte£iions;as in loving the Wife of ones youth, and in bewailing the death of ones Parent: and\vhereas the motion ofouraffe£Hons ; in things fuper-

naturall

\ thingsiabove our love to Cjod.

naturall,is purely from Grace,Nature letting no hand to this bufi-nefle. Secondly, afteftion is not to be meafuredby the indeliberate pafling motion of it, but according to the iettled habit from the judgment and eflimation which the mindemakethof this or that object. A man laughes at a toy : hee is not prefently laid to joy in that trifle more than in a! other things, becaufe the act of his joy is more lively here tha in greater matters. A mans affections more ftirre a. bout a Granger, in entreating him, than to his Wife, foe the time, whom he yet lovech more deaie. Thirdly* affections if they be comparatively confidcred in us, are, though leffe in quantity, yet greater in vertue: as Corne , when the Weed ( as Carloe) is higher and greater,yet this is ftrongcr,becaufe I in time it overgroweth, and kilieth the Weed , which farre execedeth it: So this love, chough little, ill companion of felfe-love , love to 1 CU the

~\

the creature (the fame being in the other aflfc$ions)yet in time it fhal over-grow and kill thisweed.The love ofthc Spirit is ftronger than the love of the world. If therefore ye aske t What one fhould thinker that findeth his affedtfons thus ? I anfwer* If he find them lironger* therearetwocatifesto one; where Nature and Grace workejointly, hemuftnotwonder at this matter. Againe>though wc feele their working more ftir-ring fomctimes to things earthly, yet out of judgement and fettled courfe^ve that are the Lords > doe moft affe& him. Thirdly ,we know that our affeitions towards God* chough but as a grain of Mnrtard-(eedjllnal out-gtow all this choak-weed ofinorJinacy^ which we feel in-this behalfe.In the mean while, the feeling of this diftemper* muft make us ftill feek thereilifying of it* and the healing of the lamentable vanity > to which the afte&ion is fubjc£t,by reafon of fmne.

The

The feare Woivi to Cjod.

357

The fourth thing,is the feare of I God. San&ific the Lord in your hearts,make him your feare. Feare to offend him,who when the body is killed* can caft the foul into heil fire. We fhould reverence his excellent Majctty, & dread to offend him> becaufehe hath been gracious unto us, and hath power to do with us whatfoever be plcafeth. Were there any from whom we had houfe and llocke, fo that he could turn us out of all at his j led-fure ; WvHild we notwalk very cir-cumfpe&ly, fearing to doe thjt which might alienate his favour ? Againe,if the Majeftic of a mcrtall man doth aff e& us(as of the King) with reverence, how much more fiiould we be afte&ed with the moft glorious Majefty of the moft high God ? Now ye muft know, your hearts are much void of this. 1 Alfo the thing it felfe fpea^eth : ; Do ye not fecle ( when in prayer ye are to fpeake with God) that , there is a reverence in your hearts'

?5 8

Lfifeditfithns ftirr'mg h*

befeeming fo high a Majeftie ? l5o yc not feeie a want of dread at his Judgements, which folong have been upon us.and ftill hover about us? And what awe is in us, making us fcarefiill by finne todif-pleafe him? Alas 1 . Preemption, iecurity, andhardneffe of heart, thefe Weeds grow fo high, that we can fcarce difcerne the Fruit above-named. Now then yemuft work this want upon your hearts, as the former ^faying; If I were in the prefcncc of feme great pcrib-nagcand (hould carry my felfe rudely, without refpeft , would I not biufh? And fhall I not be afha-med,that Ihave no more reverence when I come before thee, O thou God of glory ? So> for want of dread: Shall the Beafts tremble* when the Lyon roareth ? yea,fhall the Devils tremble to chinke on thy Judgements; and (hall I be fenfeleffe, and no whit mooved ? So, for want of awe, in regard of GodsLwes: Shall I dare as well I

fotakeaBearebythetocth, as to break the Kings Law, efpecially where he threatneth Limbe, Life or Libertie: And fhall I not be a-fraid totrefpafle againft thy Statutes ; the breach of which., is punishable with eternall death ? Is there none but thee, whom we may make bold with ? Shall I be fo foolilh, as to feare ficknefle, povertie, and mens difpleafures: ] And fhall I not be afraid to break thy Commandementsjifmen note me to hit me in the teeth with pre cifeneffe ? Shall I not be afraid to \ provoke by finnethy wrath, who art a confuming fire ? What is this ; but with-little children.robe skarred with a Bug -bear e, harme-lefle; and to be dreadlelle of fire, and water PLaftly, we mnft lcoke to God in confeience, how this af-fe&ion is perverted in you; con-feflingtohim , that yc can feare the faces of men, and things that are>or feem hurtfull to your felves;

1 ye can demean your felves reve- CL? rcntly

remly toward fuch as are in re-queft among mcn-but toward him, y* find great wane. Pray ye therefore to him, to put it into your hearts: he hath covenanted^ put his feare into your hearts, fo that ye fliall not depart from him.

The fifth thing is, to rejoyce in ,God, and to have him in your hearts \ for God bindeth you to rejoyce in him: Repycc in the Lordalwayes; againe, Hay* repycc* Delight thy felfe in the jLord , and he (hall give thee thy [hearts defire.Let not the rich man jrejoyce in wealth, theilrongman in ftrength, the wife mm in wife-dome > but that heknowethme, faith the Lord- For what we make our chiefe joy* that is our God: for the heart reilctbprincipaHy in that with which- it is moft delighted. Nfow what is more cqmlLtha that wc Should fblace our fclves in him with joy iinfpeakable and glorious who hach delivered us from death, and fiane,- andSatan?. (who,as

Gods j

?

but doe not as rce ought.

361

Gods executioner* bach power on finneand death) In him,who is a Lighrand a Shield ; that is a Fountain of all good 5 and defender of us from all evill; able to maintain all the good* both fpirituall and cor-poralLwhich we have* and give us whatfoeveris wanting* But if we markeonr hearts ^ Our joy ism ch depraved* (fo chat Salomon faith not without caule, that our laughter is become midnefle: ) for our hearts are not cheery this wav. Tell them of the precious benefits which are given in Chrift 5 Pardon ef finne; Peace (thebeginning of everlaftmg life) through the work of grace; Hope* through Chrift* of the heavenly Kingdome; why ? they can heare all this, anj be fo farre from leaping within us * that we can hardly difcerne them to moove. Nay* if we nurke them thebecter,we flull fee,thac when we wouid hold them to rhc remembrance offuch chines ; untill tlicy have broken oofc from tur,

^

5

Soliloquies inciting tu

they are not in their kind,tnd can-no: be lighcfome: as if God were the damper of our mirth, and not the matter of our exulting, and gladnefle.

Now when ye cannot obferve any, rejoycing in the Lord, ye muft (Lame your ielves, by laying to your hearts the cafe in other matters. Iflfeefome Toy, orheare fome jcft, I cannot containe my felfe: If I heare fome good newcs, or meet with fome prosperous fuccefle in my worldly affaires , I cannot be pleafont enough: If I be paffing-my time away with my friends , at their courteous mvite-ments> or if I be at my fports , it goeth on merrily ; dcadneffe and uncomfortablenefle, I feel them not for the time J (hal have hugh -tcrenoughat fome merry conceit, or a Feather ,till I tickle againe; and dull I not rejoyce at the Gof-pelofGodjOrgood newes from Hzwerij touching the falvation of my foule? Again,(hall I be cheery,

and

to

rejoyc

e in the Lord.

and laugh with my friends;and fhali I be all amort 3 when I draw neeremyGod? Shall I be glad of acquaintance with man,and not be glad chat I know God in Chrift, whoisLifeeverlafting? Shall the wicked rejoyce, in ferving Sinne, and Satan ; and (hall I be without mirth? in ferving my God ? Our rejoycing is earthly, little joy cf the Holy Ghoft dwelleth in us. We are like fuch as are ficke of light Frenzies; they will laugh at their flhadowes,we at our fancies; they fee not into any point of moment, we diftaftethat which favo-rech of Right eoufneffe > and right reafon. As therefore againft the former,(b againft this alfo,we muft fight the good fight of Faith ; loo-i kin^ to him that hath faid , he will make our hearts glad in his houfe ; who hath promiled to fend his Spirit unto us, that our joy maybe full; praying him, that we may feele this Fruit of his Kingdorr.e take place in us; that he would

re&ifie

) 3*3

*^

JVt mnfl praffr God our

rcchfie this affe&ion in us^making us to take comfort in that which is matter of true rejoyeing.

Sixtly* Now for praifmgGod, and thankfulneile unto him> ( for this is the laft thing I propounded) vye have thiscommandemcnt; In ail things givethanks>yea*in e-vils : Qull we receive good things from the Lord^and not evill > The Lord hath given > &the Lord hath taken away, blefled be the Name of the Lord* For howfoever it be, yet God is good^even when he pu-nidieth ; and no wonder* Is it not fo in bodily things ? Bitter Medicines are as good>in due fcafon^as the delightfuHeft dainties. And are not our inward and outward crofles, by Gods graces made wholefome Phyficke^to purge out our corruptions > and to make us partakers of the quiet fruit- of RighteoufnefTej and true Holi-nefle? Yea, our hearts-(hould be fo thankefully aflfe&ed'j chat (like fire-) they flhouldbreakefoorch>

and

fchesyAnd incite others to it. j 365

aniinflame-cthecs. Wherein we have holy Davrd for an-example : 'Pfal.i oj-hebcginsyMy foulcand all within me y praile his holy Name: In the next >Pfainte,ihehfl; vcrfe, he-faith ; Praife ye the Lord. Firftj he ftirres up himfelfe, and then provokes others topraife the Lord. As the Cocke,th at firft clapping his wings about his ovvne body,rowzeth up himfelfe,and after (crovving)awakeneth others. Otherwife > common tearmes of thankefalnefle> without afte&ion, areas Court-ho!y-water> ( as we fay) which our God, that looketh at the heart and rcines > doth not refpedt r thefe are eood words, that will pay no dent with him. And truely > there is good reafon for this♦ For whether ye looke at benefits paft>eaten Bread muft not beforgottcn, thankes muft ftill bfc grecne: And doth not your particular deliverance ( when rrnny fall on each hand ot you)binde you, daily to bee ttunkefull?

Or whether ye looke at the things ye enjoy; ye know your tempo-rail blcffings; as tolerable health, good name and reputation, free-aome from fuit and fervice,ability rather to be helpfull than chargeable, your domefticall peace, your Iibertie,without fearc of reftraintj all ofthem in their places^nofmall matters. If ye confider fpirituall bleflings ; that which ye have downe in hand, is as great a work of his mercy, as the glorious eftate j ye looke for hereafter. Is not the Lords worke more admirable, in the firft making and quickening the Infant in the Wombe, than in feeding it there, bringing it forth, and nmfing it up to fullftature? So, his begetting us again , who were dead in finne (though yet in the Wombe of our Mother, the Church)to be alive in Chrift Jefus, \*henwe are new-bornebabe>in him, is more then the bringing of us to perfect Manhood. And .thoughitfeemeftrange, yet iris 1 onely

I

blcJfwgSyMotivcs topraife CjoA.

3*7

onelyinthisrefpeft, becaufe we are like Infants; who live, but yet know not that they live: fo, we having in fmallmeafure the Spirit, which teacheth us to know the things beftowcd upon us, know not how great that grace is,which hath been already fhewed us» Is it a (hull thing, when we were dead in ignorance, and in Iuftof ourignoranccto bequickned with the life of God, in knowledge, righteoufnefle, & holinefle? When we were enemies, to be made friends,vea,fonnes and daughters? The Apollledoubtethnot to rea-fon from this,to everlafting life,as theleflerj^o^.j^ 10. God,when we were enemies, hath reconciled us by his death; how much more vtill he fave us,with perfeit falva-tionoflbule and body,by his life ? that is,by putting forth the power of his Spirit. Now he liveth,to die no more.

Thefe then are great things, as acquitting you from finne, and

death;

death; for Chrift* your Sureties fake* he fending his Spirit into your hearts* and giving you part in the firft Refurre&ion; Befidcs | thefc * ye muft remember * whatj advcrfities he hath holpen jou i*, how he hath eafed the yoake of your corruption s* which have had more power in you * than now they have* Yea, vv hat evil s he hath put by you. Have ye not been tempted in this or that kind? It is* becaufe God in mercy would not lead you into tentation. Yea* this is* in fome fort* more to be acknowledged than vi&ory* when ye were tempted: for not to be tempted, is more immediately from God* and leffc in mans power, tha to prevaile againft testations. For nothingooth overcome u^* without our will \ but without our will, Goddorh leadc us into tryall: for he knoweth, we would talte litle of thcfe*if it were in our power to be our owne carvers. Yemuflbeasthankfiill for

thofc

..» •*•

thofe finnes which God hath not let ye know, as for thofe he hath pardoned in yoib having committed them*

Whether doe ye thinke* ye are bound topraifeGod more* ifhee rcftore you > 'when fickeneffe hath come upon you; or keepe you fo* that-you feele noDifeafe? Ntiw, if ye confider what things God hath prepared for you> they are inch as eie never (aw3nor ever fully entred into the heart of man* Compare the cftate of Princc/fr*-ryin his Queen Mothers wombe* with his condition* at full ago vn aM the glory of his Fathers Court* there is a broad difference* and it mayfitly-refemble the difference of our prcfent and- future eftate: We are borne Sonnes and Daughters of Godjhches apparant to the Kingdomeof Heaven ; but while the Ghurch doth here travel of us> we arc pent up in dark Cloyfters* and annoyed with much fteachof Cm> both inour fclves and others :

but

Wherein Thankefttlneffe

but hereafter our eftate fhal be altogether lightfome,happy, & glorious : fo that we may well fay to God, How great is the goodnefle that thou haft laid up for them that feare thee ? How great things doeft thou worke for the fonnes of mentor fuch as hope in thee ? Ye fee then,how for things paft^prc-fent, and thofe alio which he hath in ftore for us, we are bound to be thankfull. Now, if ye askewhat it is, wherein our unthankfulnefle ftandeth ?I anfvver: firft,in hearty acknowledgement of Gods good-qeffe to us in all things, vvithcon-fcience of our owne unworthi-nefle,as not worthy of the leaft of all his mercies* Compare GVtf.32. io;and33. 5♦ with i.C£/*0//. 29. 14* Secondly , we muft tell of GoJs goodnefle^that we may glo-rifie him before others* Come, I will tell you, faith Davidy what the Lord hath done for my foule* So, Mofes would tell his father in law what God had done for them.

Thirdly*

V

to Godconftsls.

IV

Thirdly, it doth make us caft a-bout, whatwemayreturne unto God, by way of thankefulnefle: What (hall I give unto the Lord, for all his benefits unto me ? Laft-ly,it wil make us accufe our felves, if we be backward in duty* Thus we fee, when we receive any fpe-riall kindneffe fromour friends j Krft, our inward affections do acknowledge andentertaineit gladly ;fecondly>we tell what any one hath done for us; thirdly, we will thinkehowwe may requite him, or, at leaft, teftifie our thankful-nefle towards him; fourthly, we rate our felves (if we go on,and no token of good will be returned)as much too blame y that we fhould forget fo great acourtefie, as was (hewed to us.

Now then, that ye have heard whatitistobethankful,and what good reafon we have to enforce this duty upon us,we muft lay our felves to this rule; & we (hall find, :hat we come as fhort herein,as in

the

j 371 I We have great cattfcybnt

the afore-named. Oh! wee are horribly unthank full. What good bleffin^s doe wereceive* not once cafting a looke unto the giver of them? When we are kept in the night>and our houfes from fire^and breaking into; when refreshed with fleepe; when kept all day^in our goings out^and commings in j j when fed: Doe we heartily acknowledge God in all thefe ? It is he that watchcth, or clfe in vaine they keepe the Citie: It is he that rocketh us aflecp>and draweth th Curcaine ofthc night about vs; he giveth fleepeto his beloved: It i he that wardcth about us all the day, keeping us in our wayes:He openeth his hand^and like a great Houfe-keepen giveth us our daily bread. If in earthly things^which we fee and tafte > we cannot ,praife him;what taking fhal we be found in^about heavenly ? When ye have your daily finnes forgiven you > in Chrift; when you arc kept from the finneof your own heart; the

cor-l

\ —

corrupt examples of worldly men; the fpirituall wiefcedneffes which fight againft us; when ye go in fpirituall peace from morning until night? which alone is a gift paf-fing underftanding: Doe ye acknowledge God, with affe&ion toward him > in all thefe ? It is hee that fhifteth us out of the fcapesof our naturall corruption>wafliing us in the blood of his Chrifbfrom the filth of our finnes • he forgiveth us every day our trefpaffes: It is his might >in whictaas in a Towen we are kept fife* againft all the enemies of our falvation: He is the God of Peace,the Prince of Peace inChrift? who killeth the accusing; and fubducth the rage and ufurpation of finne in us. We are n uch in fault > who have received good things at Gods hands? & re-payed evill, & fcarce taken notice of any his kindnefies towards ur, God doth carry us on the tender armesof his mercy; but (alas) little doe we underftand of him.

373

I 374 [ Our great Hnthankefnlnejfe

In benefits often received,our fpi-rics doe not once looke up to him; but as Swine take the Mafte,fo do we our bleffings: Or if we do any thing by way of thankefulneffe* how flubberingly do weturneit ove^our afte&ios being bent another way,rather than to the thank-full pray fing of our God? Wc ferve him,as little children fef ve us;who when they be come in to us^trotn their play>and having gotten fom-thing of ns that they want, away they goe,without reverence or re-fpe&ofus : but if they know we will have duties then they doe it; but in fuch a fafhion, that we may fee their hearts are on their Game abroad, more than on their dutie. So, for fpeaking what our good God hath done for us (thankeful-neffe wil not fmother a benefitre-ceived)when do we tell him, with delight of his kindnefle? When doewebeatourbraines, notfuf-feringthe temples of our headto take any reft,til we have given our

God

to ye Lor dy Checked.

375

God fbme argument of ourtha t-fuinefle?Alas! we ufeour God,| as if it greatly mattered not how he were dealt with* New then 3 take words to your felvcs, codem-ningfrom your hearts this grievous fmne* Say, if a man do bid me to Supper once in a Quarter, I thanke bim then; when I meet him next after, I thank him againe for my laft being with him; I tell him, what kind welcome, what good cheere he made me : then I invite him fometime againe * and checke my felfe,if I forget it. But if fome greater mater be bellowed upon us,ho w exceeding kindly do we take it ? how do we love to tell of it: how do we yeeld our {elves up to them th^t gave it,profefling our felves to be at their comands, to the uttermo(t of our abilitie ? 'Shall I thanke him who giveth me aSupperinlove,tellof his loving i entertainment, & be afhamed if I makeno neighbourly reciuitall? 8c fhal I not be afte&ionately thank-

R full

576 TheJh Ante oftinth^n kefxlneffe

/

full to my God,whogiveth me all my dayly Bread ?yea,who feedcth myfbule with Himfelfe, in Iefas Chrift,(here is my body ,& bloud) chat I may live for ever? Shall J not tell of the fined Wines, ihofe fat things,even of myGod>broken in his body& ibule with forrowes, fhedding his moft precious bloud, wberewkh my moft unworthie foule hachbeene fed* and feafted ? Shall I, for fo fmall a kindneffe, thank a man a thoufand times,and tell him, I am his to be commanded; andfhalllnotfurrendermy felfe to my God, who hath payed my debt:and purchafed me a new Stocke, even the hope of eternal 1, life,withhis precious bloudPShall 1 blufh at fmali unthanfulnefle toward man* and not be afhamed oft great want this way,toward God? What?ftiall I be worfe to my God, than an Oxe or an AfTe to his owner? Iflfliould (hew one exceeding great Iove>and he fliould not at all regard me,or returne me but

fome

How to attnine a thank* full heart A ^jj

feme common councenance;coulct {endure ic ?Thus then turn your felvesunto God 3 and fayj I am become vvorfe unto thee than the Whelpes that feede tinder my Ta-ble,are unto metthey will,in their kinde, f awne upon me lovingly ; and if any fmite me,they will pre-fently flyeat him* But my hard heart hath no power to be thank-full unto thee,and to prayfe thee : My zeale is not moved,when thou art blafphcmed; I can fufter thy reproach with dry eyes, and untroubled fpjnt. Oh, thcu who re-quireftofmein all things to give thee thankes,and haft promifed to write thy Commandements in my heart, put into my heart a Law of thankefulnefle. O thouquickning Spirit,quicken my foule this way. Now finally,foratrain : ng athank-full heart, ye mnft labour for thefe three things :Firft> ye muft quicken in your (elves the confeience ofyourownnnworthincs; for we cannot praife God to any pur pole,

R 2 fur-

37» |

The tneanes to an tine

further then we fee our felves Jefl e than the leaft of all his mercies. Even as hunger is good favvce, ir.aking bitter things fvveet; fo this poverty of fpirit, and confidence ofourovvne unworthinefle, doth

make every benefit amiably tafted. I Secondly, ye muft labour to work upon your felves a fenfe of the worth of thofe things ye enjoy; in which, we greatly faile: which maketh us ulually , that we never know the price and worth of our good bleflingSjuntil we are deprived ot them.And this neg ! e&doth breed a double mifchiefe;it makes us enjoy things unthankftillyyea, uncomfortably > ( for that which through plenryfeemeth no dainty I cannot be fodelightfull unto *s.) And when they are taken away, then we come to Had-I-wift; and do fo much more penance;byhow much ^e have bin morecarelefTe. In a word,fo much as I efteeme of j a gift beftowedjibfarrc fonh am I thankfuhNot the having of things

but

«*s

to a Thaxkefrll heart <

119

but the having of them in eftima-

tion,breeds thankfgiving.Thirdiy,

ye muft labour to fee Gods good-

nefle to you in all things:the grace

Jofthegiv"cr>notthegifcitfelf, fo

much engendreth thankfulneffe;

the gift is the Shell,andthis is the

Meat,which taftcd in the foule, is

fvveeter than life , and maketh us

breake out into praifes. Labour

focthankfull hearts; God aSketh

nothing elfe but this 5 as a Rene for

all his bleflings beftowed upon us:

I will deliver thee, and thou (halt

praife my Name. Wc will not Ier

go Lcafcs to men, for not paying

of Rent: neither let us give God

caufe to enter and ftrain upon us,

& all that we have>for not magni-

fying and praifing him. Thus if Godhelpe you ro ftirre up your hearts, (for our aflFc&ions,in going this way,are like dull A(les,wbicn go no longer than they are beaten; ) if, ' fay.he give you grace ro ftirupyour hearts to repentance, & to furrender your fouls to him,

by eying him, trufting on him, loving him*rejoycing in him,fb ma-king him your feare^prayfimg him by fpirit, word, and worke; then happie fhall yeberlf new plagues brei&e forth , ye fhall hare your comfort in the hotteft* And if ye labour to fee bo wfarre your hearts, are out of frame , in regard of knowledge* truft, love/eare, joy* thankfulneffe,and in regard of impenitent hardnes and impudencie which is in them,(for they cannot, blufh for that whichGod knoweth by them,though our eares will tingle and glow on our heads, if any mm know ought rcproachfullby us;) if ye labour to finde this out, and thenin the fight of your mite-ry looktoGodspromifejWho hath, eovenated to give you a new heart, a tender heart, in which his Commandments flialbe written by the finger of his fpirit;then ye fhall fee that this courfe will let you be neither idle nor unprofitable; yea>k; fhall bring you to grow unco per-

fe£ion.

and new obedience.

fe&ion. For as the young body, which from wholforoe emptinefle, hathfrefh appetite to newfuftc-nance* taketh augmentation more and more; lb the foule,which from obferving the hcartlefneffe of k fclfc, waxeth dayly pooreinits ovvne cyes 3 hungring and thirfting after righteoufnes,receiveth dayly fpirituall encreafefrom GodAVife men will take the fovvre with the Aveete^and nothing in the World is gotten* without paines-taking. Therefore* if it feeme to have any bitternefle,or to require labounye muft not be difmayed* Ipromlfe you,it isbut(fome little) braekifh in the top; the deeper y e goe, ye fhallfindeitthe fweetcr. Make a vertue of neceffitie. If ye will enter into life* this one thingisne-ceflarie*L^io % 42. Butthereis none that awakcth himfelfe* to lay hold on God. The Lord give you underloading in all things.

R 4

Ano-

?8i

?82

Afpftion beneficiall

Another Letter, written by LMafter PauIBajrye.

MYChristianfriend, if {had fooner knovvnp of yOHr hea-vinefle,! would before this have written unto you: For the more arguments we have of love* borne us by (Sods children, the more te-ftimonies we have of his favour towards us. Ic pleafed God > in December laft,tochar ge his hand toward you, and to touch you in your wife, whom now he hath a-gaine vifited x and I hope taboth your comforts* Trudy our God (through Jetus Chrift ) is fo meav cifulUhat all things arc fan6tified by him unco our good: all afflict-ons/hough fGr the prefent not joyous, yet they bring us a: terward the quiet fruit of righteoufnefre.' Thefe evils which here ever and! anon are prefent with us, they are I fitly compared to wayward and i touchy-guefts: which, while they ftay,vvatch every officer; but when

*W

to the Souk) and how.

they depart,they pay freely. So it , is with thefe: they oftentimes djf-\ quiet the frameofthe whole foul; but when they go away,they leave encreafe ef grace>of faith, ofpati-ence,of experience; that the ibule faith, Well,it is good I knew thefe things. But the prefent working offorrows feemeth often farreo-therwife:for in ftead of encreafing in faith, our faith feemeth to bee fhaken and weakncd, rather than otherwife ; and in ftead of breeding patience and holineffc , cur foulcs do difcover more impati-en:e,rebellion , and more unholi-nefle every way Now the foule thinketh,vvhen thus it is fhaken in beliefe; How doe thefe Crofles confirmc faith ? and when fuch I evill,dwe'ling inns, doth breake out,ho\v(faith the ibule to it felfe) da afflictions beget the quiet fruit of righteoufnes?! will anfwer you thefequeftions familiarly: When Faith is fhaken by evils befalling us 5 you aske how it is confirmed? I

R 5 anfwer

384 I Temptations Strengthen Faith.

^

anfvver you by a double compari- ; fon:When a Linke burneth dim>to helpe the light>we knocks it;being beaten to any thing* it fecmeth al-moft to goe forth; yet this beating it, doth caufe it cart light far more clcerely*

Againe > how doth the fhaking of a tree by ftormy blafts>fettle the root and the tree more firmely, though for a while it threaten the dovvnefall ? Conceive of thefe* and you may underftand* how faith though it feeme to be cart downe, yettryedbyecntationsj itcomcth to be ftrengthened. Now then if you aske>how they bring forth en-creafe of righteoufnefle^leeing you fee more unrighteoufneffe breake from you by occafion oftheitbthen you have obierved in your felfe heretofore: Confidet that when aveffellof any liquor, hath mud and dregs fettled in thebottome; k mud be ftirred 3 that which fee- | med|mrej muftbe mademuddie before it can be clcanfed z evenfb

his

— > —■

his troubling of us > veflelfull of uncleanneffe > is the way whcrby God doth clcanfe us. Now if God hefotenderly prefentbyus* ask pleafed him ere-while to be, it falieth fo out, that much °old* many precious graces are difcerned> which we before could not difco-verrand thefe are fuch fweet fowrs> fo plcafantly tempered * that the grief i$ not fo bitten as the working of grace in us is delightfull. But what way foever,calamity doth not fo hurt us>as fcarre us ; us who are loved of God and called home according to his purpofe* Thus wifhing your peace^and hoping that all (hall turne to good* the good of you both>I

ceafe to trouble you.

1

FINIS.

COMFORT

AND

INSTRUCTION

in Affliction.

A

Letter full of Divine

Comforts ^ and inftru&ions |

unto all, in the time of ficknes,

or any other chaftifemencs

of the Lord,

Written by Mr. Pavl

BaiNE. PSAL.94. 12> IJ #

Blejfedis the man when* thou chajttfifty O Lordy and teachefi him out of thy Law y that thou maySi give him reji from the dayes ofadverjttie*

LONDON.

Printed for N. En derby and are to be fold at his Shop in Popes-Head Alley, at ihefigne oftheftarrc*

{

I

COMFORT

AND

INSTRVCTION

i&affii&ion«

Oving Sifter, I cannot but write you a word in the love I beare you, hearing that your health dothftand more weakely withyou, then heretofore. I wifli your bodily frailty might be an occafiont© your foule, I of returning into it felf, and drawing moreneerto God inChrift Ic-fus.Even as childre love to be playing abroad, till night approaching doth caufe them return: fo we love not to dwell at home with Godj

and

pw-«.

590 : Cjods children bettered bj affltttion

i

I

and our own conferences in godly devotion & meditation this way; but to be abroad infuch courfes, as are moft pleafmg to our corrupt natures, till the night ofafflidhon commeth; in whick,unable to delight our felves as before > we turne backs into our owne foules, and come home to oui heavenly Father. I wifh you th'a fruit of your infirmities therathe^becaufe not the having of fickneffe, but profiting by it,is a certaine mark, that you are one whom God hath called, according to his heavenly purpofeoflife everlafting :for all things work to their good onely, who ?re thus called of God, and love him,Rom 8. And if you receive correction, fo as to have the quiet fruit of righteotffneflfe by I meancs of it, then you are chil-[dren,notbaftards; that looke as, ^good metall is difcerned from JdrofTe, not by being in the fire onely>butby waxing more bright and refinedby meanes of it;fo are

Gods

c

How we may profit under Gods h*nd* j 391

Gods Children defcried fromo-thers, not by being in calamities which is common to all , butbjr growing thereby more purged from their corruption, and more Aiming in the light of grace,to the glory of their Father which is in heaven. Wherefore f eing it doth fo much concern you, to find fome fpiritnall fruit? of your vifitatiom I will at this time teach you> how ou may come to profit by this and ofGod.which hath followed yen oflate with more then ordinary weakneffe of body,

Firft,you mwft labour to apprehend God, as a Father corre&ing of you by thefe infirmities.

Secondly you muft labor to find out the caufe why, and to what purpofe God doth follow you in inch kmd. And thirdly, yon muft feekc to him, that he would teach you to profit, and lead you by his

frace to al that which is pleafing eforehim.Many account of fick-ncs,as a thing which commeth by

courfe, a

In infirmities ive nwft

A

a thing(which may well be looked for in your yeers) which will weare away by the grace of God; onely as it had a time to grow in * fo it mufl: have a time to goe in alio; vanishing away in fucb thoughts, never ©bferving the correcting hand of their God* in the thing which is upon them. The world as it doth not know God in all that good he doththem,when he filleth their hearts with joy and gladnes, being worfe then the oxe and afle, who know their Maftets Crib ; fo againe* beingdiunken with ignorance, andlufts ofignorance^they know not who ftrikeththem,when the punilhing hand of God doth follow them: whereas every childe dcth know when it receiveth correction from the carchly Parent, yea, the wilde Colt doth know when the Dam doth Itrike it. Wherefore (before a'l things) labour to fee God>your Fathers hand in all things. Should we beat our children>and they fliould feem never

\

apprehend (jods hand.

393

ver Co vouch as to heed our linking of therib would we not judge their ftate forIorne?Againe*this makech vs returne repentantly, when we Fee our heavenly Father calling us by his corre&ion; this maketh us :oindeavourto be humbled under Gods hand when we thinke how God our Father is offended with as. Finally* this maketh us to con*-:eive hope* that our vifitation (hall be for our good; the Parents hand hurteth not Children.

Now for your clearer infpe&i-on hereinto > and for your greater :omfort, I will infift fomewhat tightly upon that in Daniel , Dan* iz.3 3*34>tf. where the Prophet [having opened the impieties and perfecutionsofthat wicked Antio-r/?*f,as likewife what was the ftate sfthe lew without,who had not the power of godliness the verfebe-fore)doth m thefc three lay downe the eftate of the godly,while thefe fiery tryalsindured. And 5. hings are there fet downe: Firft, he de-

fcribeth

It is a good twins property

fcnbeth thofe chat were godly, wife, and found-hearted in their profeflion,from this, that they did labour to bring others to fellowship in the fame grace with them, through inftru&ion, andmeanes of chat nature. Secondly >hc fetterh downe the variety of evils which (hould befall them^rcand fword* Tfurdly,thc cold comfort and den* derhelpes which they were like to find-Fourthly>the end of zlUviz,. the purging out of all their corruptions, both of flefh and fpirit. Fifthly^tbe durance of their fuffc-rin*,nacnely,till Gods appointed (eafon were expired. From this (chat the godly-wife are defcribed from hence, that they inftrud cithers ) obfervefirft by the way, that a good mans property is , he will labour to make others good, ha cannot goc to heaven aloneas God catcheth him, fo he will pull his neighbour after with him ; asJ ThHip did N'athmeelj Ioh.1,43. according to that commandment,

Teach

i

ftdifi others.

395

reach and cdificone another, i. rh. 5 .even as a fweet fmell filleth j hefenfesof fuch as are neere it, b grace afte&erh thofethat cott-erie with ir # Now to perfwade s to the praftice of this, we have lany rea!ons;firft,Gods glory,fbr )e glory of a King, faith Salomon andcth in the multitude of his ubje&s; therefore, when we la-3ur to increafcthe number of the lithfulljwe do gain no fmall g!o-no God; as who thenincreafe is Subje£ts,and enlargehis king->me. Secondly, the good of che irty admonifhed ; for as Saint ptfwfaith often, by phis meanes Souleisfaved-.whichismoreto m that is converted, then if vve ?t him the pofleflion of the bole World. Thirdly, for our Ives,itdoth many vvayes benefit ; thus to worke upon others ; r, firft without us , we hence inneonr felves great love in the :artsofothers.This made Naomi interefled in the heart of Rmh.

This

■■ ■ ■ ■

The good nwft helpe to

This made TauI Co afte&ed to th<

Galatians > chat they would haw

given him their eyes; whereas i

this be wantingmoeieisfufficiet

and the negle6t of this, is that

which often maketh men meet

with fuch trickes and turnes

their deareftfriends>as aregrievou

unto them. Againe* while we do

deale with others thi s way>we in

creafe our own grace; for it is wit

that as our other ftocke^the bettc

it be husbanded* and theoftner

be turned , fo moth the more it

increafed. Thirdly, in Heaven v

(hall have fo much more ample re

ward,by h9W much more we ha

beene in this kind more fruit fu

T>an.i 2,_3. This is firft, to rebu

the vaine complaints of men* wl;

will cry out>0 what an evill vvor

it is ! Whom may a man truft nc

adaycs?But yet never goe about

I reclaime a man from any evill ws

What doeft thou complaine of

evil world?It isthe worfe for the

When doeft thou admonifh an>

mak^-others good/Ujes of it.

lay, one may be in thy company 11 the yeer, and fcarce hear a good Yord> which tendeth to make fin ia:efull>and vertue precious in the ccounts of others* What tolly is his, to begone that, which thou /lit not tiir thy litde finger to re-refle? As if a husbandman fhould Dmplaine,0 hereis nothing in my round>but bryers and nettles^and ther weeds! but Chould never ma-nre ibfow it drefle it, &c* Every »ne would condemne it as folly in iiibfoit is with us. Sccondly^this sbuketh fueh as will not be admo-ii(hed:come and talke withthem, arping upon this ftring, and they /ill fay>What have you to do with ne ? \ooke to your (clfe* \ ou (hall nfaet for your felfe > and not for le -.but we muft have to doe with hcm> and one with another: did fefee their beaft ready to mifcar-y> under a burden^ we are bound bhelp it,and they would nocraif->keit; much more are we bound d help one anothejrunderthe burden

j 5<jg ( GodffoftfcrvoHts, mofl malted*

den of fin.Secondly, here we fee, that the belt fervice receiver h from the world ofcStimes the worft wages .Thefe that made others turne From their evill wayes > and them-fclves walke • to all godly mnocen-cy; thefeare the Butts(asit were) at which the malicious world, chiefely fliootcthtthus it was with Chrift, and the Prophets : which of them in mannerwere not cruelly butchered jThereafo i*,firft,be-caufe fuch fruitfull Chriftian'., the Divell feeieth his head fo trod on by them, that he cannot indurc them: but will catch them by the heele* andmifchiefethem,asfaf as he is able*Let men florifh witfc humane wifedome, carry them-lo felves for humane morall difcourfi i and complement, incomparable! n he ftirreth not at this, for all this i while he is but played with, nc fbule is recovered out of his povy^ r er, he is notdifturbed.Agame, a* the malice of the divell isagainfl them chic fely, fo the envie of th

world

■ » m

vorld j who cannot but hate fiich whofc workes are becccr than heirowne. Theufeofthisis^that ve judge not of men according to heir affiiflions. Oh when wee leare one is in trouble,thcn we lay lurely he might have handled the natter with more difcretion; had le beene wifer, be might have fared all this trouble. Do we not fee lerc, that the wifeft that werefa-hcrs begetting others to wifc-lorac, this is their portion ? Chrift \nd the Apoftles might thus bee :ondemned asfoolifh; nay, fiich vhofc (ins doe cart them into their roubles, fuch arc foolifh; bat /vhen affli&ions come for a good xmfcience, then it is quite other-wife. Secondly,we mud fit downe 3 ind caft our accounts before hand, hat we will not bee difcouraged, or that meafure wee meet with rom the World; but comfort our elves in this., that God will judge is, not according to that fucceffe ve have had Jbuc according to that

S we

3?9

400 \ The Afjlt8ions0f the godly mu ft

III * III M l .> > . . . ■ ,|

weiiave done; bee it good or cvill. Thirdly,from this, that thefe god-lywife fuffer £nbody,asby fire and (word; in goods,as by (polling; in liberty, as being banifhed and led captive^and that many daie*;I pray ybn obferve^that the Saints of God often fuffer ftrong,many, and long affliftions. Thus Ifraels pofterity endured triall 4oo*yeers. Thus the elder people of God were all led captivefeventy yeeres;for we need great ones, that our corruptions may be fubdued within us. For.as theuDtaraednefle of fome Colt is fuch^that unleffs he were fore rid-den,he would never be broken, Co is it with our rebellious naturc.Se-condIy,Httle things donctcxercife our faith, & make us tofeeke God for as none for a little head-ach,or for the ranch of a pin, will fecke tc the bodily Pbyfician or Surgeonjfc is it with the fou!e,whiIe it is trou bled with like grievances ipiric all. Thirdly, they nmftbee great., to make place for mercy aboun<

dan

be get Ate ^ divers^andhng.

401

dant fromGod to us 5 and plentiful! thankefgifing from ustoGod. If one heale a trifling matter, it neither fo bindcth the Patient, nor commendeth the Ph y (Irian: but if one heale us of fomedeadly incurable thihgjO we fay then,we could never have met with fuch a Phyfi-cian; not the like in the world a-gaindSccondly^they muft be many and divers, armies of men 5 it lob fpeaketh 5 becaufe our corruptions are of divers kinds: and becaufe a* gaineasthe body, if it take one thing ftill, it commeth to beefo much leflemoved,by how much it is more familiar; (b it is with cur foulesjthatoneuniform^ evil doth by little & little, through cuftome become kfle cffeftuall. It faring withanian,aswich a horfe ; who ftill (purred in one place, commeth not to feelethefpurre, nor mend his pace when hee is pricked. As they muft bee ftrong and divers, fo they muft bee long alfo; becaufe our evil* which have

S 2 been

■ i ■ ■ ■ J r r t r

402 I 3Tfo tfflittions tftbtgodlj

beene long growing upon us, will not goe away haftily; as ftaines which arelong fctled in a c!otb,re-quire much fcowring. Now when wee daily fpot our (elves with fin 3 we lee it fettle in; and doe not wath our felves by renewing faith and repentance : and (o make way for the heavier band of God, when he (hallvifit. Batitmaybeobje&ed, Paul faith, our afflifti ons are light and momentany. Anfwer: Not, that abfolutely they arc fo, but in comparifbn of eternity; Secondly, lighten regard of that which grace maketh them,when (in is repented of, and Gods favour not hidden from us. This made Tanl that he could not fleepe for joy, butfung at mid-night when hee was impri-ibned and (ore handled. This made Ptf er,thougb he was to be brought forth the day after to death, he ne-j ver flept better in his life: this will make us out-looke death, and al cvills,when we have received from God the grace of repentance and

for

are many, yet light alfe.

forgiveoefle of finsjwhcn the light of his countenance is towards as in his beloved. For as a plaifter which upon a (ore flefh caufeth much fmart, upon (bund flcfli ftir-rech no paine: (o troubles lighting upon a foule healed thus, as is a-bovc-faid, are nothicigfogricvous. This muft make us provide our felves 5 and arme our hearts with the comfort of the Scriptures, agaiaft wefhallbe tried, not bdngatall difrruied at them when they befall u?. If wee make account of cold weather entring, then wee will be appointed,& get double clothing; wee muft be as wife for our foules, as bodics.Secondly,we muft cry to God, that he would fay to our (pints by his Spirit, thac our fins are forgiven; that is J am he that jufti-fiech thee,who can lay any thing to thy charge? and we muft give all diligence to make our calling and cleiUon (ure, feeing that in thefe things ftandcth our fvveetc peace and comfort, when all the world S 3 be-

Gods Children forfaken of friends

befides can (hew us no comfort.

Fourthly, that they have fo fmallhdpe, andmuchdiflimulau-on ufed towards chem • obferve I hence, that when God will try us, men ufaally leave us; fb Paul filth in the fecond of Timnhj, that all had forfaken him, the firft time of his appearing. Thus when Chrift was fmitten andattached,the Apo-ftlesfhrunkeaway from him •according to that, when the Paftor wasfmicten, the (heepc were (cat-tered.For of tho£ that make fliew to be friend s,many are hypocrites ; and therefore they will like fwal-lowes take the Summer-fliine with I us, but bid us adieu when winter | f bloweth. Secondly, many that are fbund^yet are weakein love; and therefore not able to bcare in fufferings. Thirdly, many want courage, and therefore fay, I can doe him no good, I fhall be looked into; as good one beare it as moe, when we cannot be eafed :(b

that

/

in Affliction: The nfes thereof*

that their diftreffcd brethren may fiokeorfwim, while they confalt with fuch flefhly reafon.The ufe is, that we would all learne hencenot corruftin men, but in the living God; and co acquaint our (elves wkb him,ia whom there is no Iha-dow of change.

Secondly, wee muftnorbediC-maied, if many forinke from us when they come co the wetting; Come of Gods children differing inthiskindc, take ic to heart and ky : Ob, if others had done thus and thus, I could bane borne ic; but it goeth to ray hearr, to fee fuch ferve me this part! Why,this is no great new^s; doe not the Saints here; did not Chrifi >T>avid, Iob> at his wives hand indurc the fame?

Fifthly, that thefe worthy S11 ncs have fuch ftrong, many and long affliftions for the purging of them j Obfervc hence, that there ' are none fa pure, but need fining, winnowing, and wafhing: even

S-4 as'

AH troubles rvorkt together for

asdroffeis with filver, offall and care with corne, foylc with cloth: fb is corruption with our nature, it will never quite bee taken forth, till this body offinne be diflolved; and God will have fuch remainders that we may be trained in humility by them. They are like the Swans blacke teete, in the whiteft Chriftian.SecondIy,that we weake ones may not be difmayedat that we find, when the beft have their *remna">ts of corruption.

Sixthly,tbat God doth give them to fuch croffes^only to purge them &c. Note hence, that all troubles are for the benefit of us, who are the Lordsjffr. 12.1 o.For our profit he chaftifeth us; and that they may workcto thi^heedoth Qnd them by meafure fuch, as may help us, noeoverwhelme us, Jjfi.27.8. Hedoth ftill fit ut in our affl ftions I for our good, not proportion our cvih to ourdeferving. SecondIy,as hedoth fend them inmeafure, Co with his blefliog; which turneth

all

gotd to Gods children.

4°7

all things that they work together co our good. True it is, that a while there is no (iich thing apparent; but in the end when we fcc whaiGod will uft themall to,theo we fhall tec that all fuch confpire to our great profit. la buildings great while there isnocomelines, but ac length when every thing is fitted to the right place^ thereis a goodly correfponJence in the whoie^thar b,a well proportioned anfwering ofone part to another: (o in the frame of our fbules. Aid hence we fee, how wide the wicked are in their reckoning. O they think they have fped us, they have prevailed; when indeed they have done good offices to us: for God maketh them of the Scullery to fcowreus, Laundererstowalhus, ia the worft things hce fuffcreth them, or wicked fpirits over them, to doe unto us, Seco!idly 3 (eeing all ourfufferings are from God, wee muft look for profit by cverytrou-b!e; unleflT: we will make God not

s$

true.

aq% The time of our Afflittion is in

true, or our felves not his children, truely godly, and loving him: and there fore rhey arc much to be blamed, that through v\eak-nefle will fay, they cannot tbinke that ever fuch a thing fhall doe them any good; for u^hat cannot be make for our gocd, that caileth light out of darkn^flfe, if we will give glory to his Word byrefting upon it?

Seventhly, that all chefs tribu-lationsareto laft but till the appointed time : We obftrve hence, that our times of exercife they arc onely in the hands of God 5 even as thePhyfician onely mult prescribe how long the courfe of ihe phyfickeordiet drinkesmuft bee continued; fb mud our God fct the time, for which thefe troubles (which are the fou!e c $: urg^ti-ois)muftbetakeri. Wicked nr,cn cannot fct the time^foi they would never make an end; nor yet Dor ieIves;forwe would fipbut lightly of fo bitter cups $ this is the Lords

I Gods band: Theufes thereof.

—«k-

prerogative royall, co appoint the ftafons and termes, wherein affli-/ ftions ftull be continued. Theufe ofic is, chat wee take heed of provoking him, who hath power to hold us under evils while he pleafe Secondly, weemuftflietohimin prayer, that he would be pleated co incline mercy cowards us, and make haft.ThirdIy,wc muft know chat all our continuance in afflictions is full of mercy ,truth aid wife-dome. If Ixcob thoald have held lofeph in prifon, would hee have held him coo long? no, no ; much ieflfe hc( who is more merciful than any father, and pkiifull than any; mocher)will hold us overlong: but ordetingallhiscorreftions by his Fatherly providence; will in his good ime make them worke al o-grther for good, and notforevill u. tons.

In the fecond phce 3 'abour to findc out what finnc it is, which offendcth God. SinnefuU tflen ftrikc ooc without a caufe; the

1-aft

!

■■

j

v4fpUions fbould make w

juft God,when he corre&eth,hath ever juft reafbn: our confidences are like Iooking-glafies,which bt* ing over-fpread with duft,dofhew nothing^ but if they bee wiped c!eane,cben little things appeare in them clcarely* Wherefore enter into your foulcconfiderwhat ftace you ftand in before God j whether you have that faith toward his grace which doth puiifiethe heart whether you hive fo learned Chrift, that his vertuc hath made you put off the old roan, that is 5 deny thofe earthly lufts,which doe leads naturall men (asic were) by thenofej and live godly ^ righce-oofly, and with Christian (bbriety, in ufe of thofe liberties which in themfelves are lawfull. Many thinke, that if they know the truth and 3src in judgment agaiift Popery- if they like of the prefent Religion, prefenting their bodies on the Sabbat^it the publike worfliip efpecially, if they have a prayer read in the houfe^and fo&forme of private

fearcb into QurffifitnaUtJldte.

piivatefervice, thcythinkeitiae-nougb;though they never received, that grace from Chrift, which fhouldf fcafon their nature with a divine qualitie, even as the leaven doth the lump: of dough • andftir up flrife in them againft their own corruption,'which hindrcththem, that they cannot doc any duty to God,fb as they defiretodo.Wher* as all true Chriftians are Chrifts fou'diers, & find their lives a warfare; the Spirit of Chriftin them driving againft their corrupt na-turc^and their corrupt naturelufU ing againft the grace whichChrifts Spirit hath wrought in them, (b that they cannot doe the thing* they would doe. Wherefore look to this(deare Sifter;) ourbrft free* hold, our hope of Heaven dotb ftand upon it. Wee muft not thinke as many do,we have not lived thus long, to call it nowinqueftionin what ftate wee ftand: (uch like thowghrs the devil (uggefteth,that men through hardnts of heartland

blind

Wei muft examine ourfdvts i for

blind preemption, might fallinto j evill. If you find that you fland in the faving grace of Chrift,then you muftexamineyourfelfe, whether you have not provoked God , by negligent and camail performance of Spiritual duty : as good ftuffc may be marred in the making, fo, the b^ftdt?ties,ifour hearts beTiot brought inco Gods fight 5 and reverently prepared in them, they are marred j being :ti fach manner performed : yea, theydifpleafe God. Curfedarefucb who do his work negligently; who draw necre him with their hearts being farre off from hum : many were ficke, many (mitten with death for receiving the Communion without reverence, fairh, and repentance, i £V it* Examine your fclfe, whether you have fet your heart to love the Lord Jefus, whom you beleeve to have ftudie his bloud for you; wee fay, Love defends ,, it doth not afcead. parents tenderly love Children, but

Children

r i i s-

what firwe.Gcdafflifts «/, / 41 <?

Children love not Paretics in that degree^ It israoft true, cwixc us and our heavenly Father,, to whom* our hearts beare too too cold love^f the beft of them be ex-anrned. You had more necde to Iooke to this,!t is Co popular a difc cale.Finaily^onfidci whether you have not ufed the law full things of this life intcmperately«. whether you ha?e not negle&ed time, which is fo precious- whether you have not bcene carelcffe to fee that thofe who are under your go-verrmenr, fhouldfrcveand fcare the L rd. Confider, I fay, ftch like things, that you may find whac ic is God would h^ve you amenc*. Even as a medicine doth ftirre up nacurall hea r e to fight .withthe ficke humour, which i^ to bee expelled by ic 5 lb the me-dicio ble forrowes that GOD d th m fter to his Children, doe ibrrc up grace, to driv \ forth fuchcorru^tion&fpirhua l,asGod \AOuld have removed by chem.

In che third place, finding what hath been amifle, you muft know, chat you cannot redrefle it,we cannot thinke a good thoughr-we can (like children taken in faults) pro-raife to do no more,and be in them presently againe. Seeing then ic is not in our ftrength,to take fruit by our croflTcs,further than Godf who givech will and deed) doth worke it in u«;wc muft come to him, and pray him to make us profit. Hee who will have fiafull men joyne inftruftion with correftion; yea, who putteth into m*n this regard of dumbcrcatutes, that be will not ftrikea dogge, but bee will make him (ee,fo well as he can, what it is for which he ftriketh hi w -(hall not hecinftruftus, when his hand is now upon us, for want of duty to him ? In vaine fhould coLiiron be b?ateo,did not fire fofcen ir:in vain (hould sffi ftions (which are Gods hammer) ftrikc on our hearts, (hould not God by his Spirit', which is compared to fire, both

(often

U4 ttprofit ly affitlion*

fofcen our hearcs,and enlighten us, to fee our duties towards him. Wherefore good Sifter, feeke to God for this Spirit of Chrift, w ch may make all forrowes fruitfull unto you, andbeareyouup^ that you finkenot in them: For as bladders fwim aloft all waters, while they are filled with winde, fbdoe wee above all affli&ions, while this Spirit is with us,to fupport us in them. If Phy fickc be given a bc-dy,and it will not worke,itisan ill figne; if our infirmities, which are | Gods potions to our fbules, ifthefc move not our hearts to turne from finne, and feeke to God for mercy in Chrift,tc isa fearcfull figne of a Jeadfbule, from which the life of God is departed. The Lord give jrou underftanding in all things, rhus wiftung you true comfort, both inward and outward, I com-Btc you to the grace of God in Chrift Iefus.Farewell.

Your loving Brother,

Paul B*)*te,

Ftwperforme the grcate things

••——».

^Another Letter.

GOodM* D. Ihavercceircd your Letters, wherein the death of our friend, which before was conjefturall, is certainly affirmed : as alfo the manner of his death exprefled. The latter doth miniftercomfort for the bearing of the forraer.For 3 dearh is not a matter of fomuchforrow to the god-ly,as the giving of repentance uato life e verlaftir,g,is mac ter of joy and gladnefle. The Lord grant that his death, and the great mortality which your ties have feen, may bee focfrreall Sermons to us, that We may bethinke as of our mortality, and turne our hearts to wife-dome, feeketo gaine the time, which wee have heretofore mi-fpcnt,by taking all occifions unto good; and wee have vowed great things in baptifine, we have profef. fed our ftlvei dead with Chrift, (b that the world is crucified to us, and wee unto the life of the world,

wh?ch

,

which as Saint John expoundeth, doth (tend ia the finfull pleasures, profits, and glory which chechil-dren of the world imbrace as their portion. But alasj, in ftead of; making this profeffion good, wee doe live in the World, taking in coo freely and unweanedly, the pleasures of ic, fetting our hearts on the profits of it, more than is expedient. We have prof efled our felves in Baptifaie,to be alive unto 3od,(foras thedippingorfprink-ingof us,doth fcale ouringrafcing ntoChrift dying; fo the comming "orth^or wiping the water off^doth eale unto us this grace from God) trdprofefleit (of our part) before iim,thc Angels,and the Congrega-ion,that we are paffed from de<tf!i olife, even a life which is unto 5od, and ftandeth in knowledge, n rightcoufnefle, in holinefle, 3 that no longer, now wr, -s he old man Ihould live,bn* f irift efus fnould live in us. i . .v how lead are wc in regard of this lifej

who!

418 Gods children may die by the fUgut .

who in the u(c of Gods manifold mercies, hath care to fhew forth the feare of his name^ the love of holinefle, to make manifeft, that now hee is alive with his head Chrift Jcfus unto God. The care-leffe breaking of this covenant hath cauftd all this (b grievous pe-ftilence,yea, the Lord hath (liewed how true that is,even in his owne Children,tnany of whom hee hath taken away,yet fbcorre&ed them, that he would nottemove his mercy from them,nor falfifie his truth: and therefore he hath given them repentance. And if God let you fee this covenant of yours, and the maine failing in performance of ir, you areblefled: Bleffcd are they that mourne(faith our Saviour)fo r they (hall be comforted • bur, Woe to thofc that goeon laughing, for they, if they continue, (hall waile everlaftingly.

Your loving Brother,

Another

Leffonsfrem the lingring eftbe^ &c.

.« ~««

419

Afthir Letter,

Mr. D. Ic plcafeth God ftillto lft his hand hang amoogft you, though he hach gracioufly a-batedhis ttroke, yea, very many places remain infefted,thnugh many die not of the infe&ionul which mould teach us both to remember that which is paft, and to fcare, in regard of that which may fall our. For this is one end why God doth not at a chop remove the evills which annoy us,that we might the better remember our forrow paft, and his goodnefle in our deliverance. Againe,his hand doth hover often dill about us, that wee might I feare before him, and meete him by repentance, in the way of his judgement left if that his patience wait on us in vaine, ourftroke at length be redoubled. Truelymen are far from this, they thinkethat there is no feare, ic had a time to come,and muft have a time to goe,

and I

Ihey ibat humble tbemfelver

and t he worft is part; but God li~ keth noc fuch fecurity^ yea hee of-ten Canfeth c vill to meet it. where the htarnsbl* fled that fearethal-waks.Whereforegood M.*Z).doe you go on in f rrow, for manifold wau'sofduty towards your God fo gracious, yea, accufeyourfelfe now, as roo little humbled under his mighty hand, when fucb ftrength of his wrath was revealed. And inthefe thoughtsraifeup your felft to look unto his free mercy of Chrift, which reacheth (through the merit of that bloud)tothe pardon of all our fins,yea, to make us^ who are the children of wrath become the children of blefling, yea fuchblefling as doth follow us in all our waies.O that is a worthy (entence for all that haye efcaped this hand, to thinke on; Goc thy waies,finneno more, that is, make not a trade of walking after your owneeies and hearts, left worfe things befall. And this I will tell you, the praftice of thefe things,

though

under Gods handball be exalted.

though ic reftraine a little mirth, which the Wi£ roan callech mad-neflc,yec it flhall bring you to tafte in your foule a joy unfpeakeable and glorious 5 fuch a rejoycing, which the world cannot take from you.

Your loving friend, tuttl Byne.

421

THE

TRIALL

OF A

Chriftians Eflate:

OR,

A Difcovcric of the Cauics,

degrees, fignes and differences

of the Apoftafieboth of

true Chriftians and falie:

In a Sermon preached in Lottdo^

by Matter P au l Bayne, and

afterward lent in writing co

bis friend W.F.

* ——— , ■ 11 - ■ -

LONDON,

Printed by A 6. for i.N. and are

to be fold by Sam* Enitrhj, at his

{hop, at the Scarrc in Popes

bead Alley. 1637.

•*»■

<&> t£r> *&* *&> c 'f?> *?&» <&* *tfr> o£» cfs> «^* *£«> *^> *^*> e<j* *J>

To the Reader.

Hri&ian Reader\good Wine needetb nogarland , it will praife it felfi:fo( I perfwade my felfe) will tbU enfuing Sermon, which a learned , holy andfaitbfullfervant of God formerly viva voce in publique, founded in the eares of me and many, and afterwards ju a token of his

A 2. Chri-

■I

— — . , 1 ■ _ _■ ■

To the Reader.

Cbriflian lolpe to mee , be fto^eduponme in writing lohich being fojruitfulUm necejfarie a labour , in tk judgement of the godly an learned that baite Jeene i and fo Jpeciallj befittin thefe luke-tvarme and bad Jliding times , I thought could not, without prejudu to theejuffer it to lie by m, for my private inftru&id and benefit alone } and then fore for thy good, the ke\ ping in precious memory t> Preacher thereof yphom t\ L ord hath gatInred into l\ barne, and for the glory

aod efyecially, I baloe consented that it be made more bublique and common , by comming under the prejfe. The Lord grants bat it may halve that juccefje in me and thee, which bee that ga"ve fir ft life unto it inftudying, and brought it foortb by preaching\intendedjmd Tin confenting and caufing to ha'-ve it printed\defire: fo lb.ill the feeble , uptake and doubting Chriftian t be taken by the hand, ftaied and com. forted aga'inU the feares of totall backfliding , and ypc all (bail be of the number of

A 3 them

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To the Reader.

them which follow faith to the conferloation of our foules: which the Lord for I ejus Cbrift hufake grant.

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Thine in his beftdefire?,

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But we are not they which withdraw vurfelves itUoperdiiha^ butpllotp.fdith unto thtMQ* fet«vatie*4j C thi{QHfc> I

[& Apoftle, having in the verfc before re-unembered the fears full eftace of fuch who through unbeliefs are withdrawne from God, doth in this verfe prevent a fcru-

A 4 pie

ThetritBef* Cbrifliam E/fate.

^ ' ^

pie which might arife hi fam^ u~ morons consciences > doubting whether they were not in this cafe next before threaded. Hee doth therefore tskefnch weakeones by the hand ^ ftrengthning them, by beariag them witnefle of their condition 3 mauifeftcd by the fruits abovementionedjverfe 32.53.34 which eflate is let downe herein thisverfe: Firft negatively* by de-niall of their unbelceving revolt. Secondly affirmatively, by avouching their pcrfeverance in faith. Either of thefe properties of un-bclicfeand beliefe,bdng amplified from theefe&s which accompanied them, ws.deftru£Hon of the foul* (for that is to be undcrfbod from the latter claufe) and falvati-00 of the fame.

The fiimme ofthe words, Feare not though I tell you that backfli-dcrsare vcflels of no dclighc, for yourfclres with rayfclfe,are not ( fiich who fteale from our corapa-oieS; leaving our militarie profek _____ __ fion.

^ . . . -. _

The triaU of a forsftuns Eft ate.

fion, which would tame in this life and the life to come to our further deftru&ioa; but we continue in faith, and put forth our beliefs more and more, as occafionrequi-rech, which bringcth us here and everlaftingly cofce the Lords fal-

| vation.

Now for the inftru&i ons which both the fcop* and matter of the verfe include in them. Firft,that Paul doth confirms them by bearing them witneffe of their cftate. Ic doth teach us, that wee muft ftablifti cur weakc brethren, by bearing thern-reeord of the graces Wrought in them* wee who have found grace tnuft confirms others. If any thing more fmarc be u r re-rcd, we nrnli moilifie icwithfach wife prevention a9 Phyfirians, if they forefee ought harmefull to the bodie^, they corrett ic with other ingredients, that it may wholefjinely be reccircd. If wee faw on? ready to trip, wee would reachhimahaud 3 30d (alUine lum

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tU tritUefd Cbriftians Efiate.

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from Falling: much more muft wc (hew this love to the fbule (haking through frailtie. This wifedomc Chriftufed,hee quenched not the fmoakingfhxe: thefeafonable certifying to men their good things caufeth them to take increafe: our honour of them, our dutie to the comfort of their lives and to the truth, doth require it. Such there* fore are to bee taxed who wanting this prudence, handle the word in dividing it like him in the Em-bleme , who gave to the Afle a bone, tothedoggeftrawrfuchare thofe Pallors who difcourage good devotions, and incourage men carnally minded, like unco them we reade of, Esjtchiel^ chap. 13.22.Such again are chey amongfc private Cbriftians, who like Jobs friends ztt a breaking to them, whom chey fcould comfort and confirtrte.

SecondIy 5 we mufl be provoked by this example to iacourage weake ones when they are doubting

T& trijRofa Cbrtfliins Efiate.

ting of their eliatcs: for as a timorous patient imagining twenty e-vilJs, when his Phyfitian affureth him that his cafe is nothing fb, is wellfocisfhd: (bhere.

Agaiue., in that he faith, We are not they that withdraw. Hence we are given tounderftand, that fome may fall away from the Graces re-ceived.In fame mannerGods o wne children and others are reported to have fallen: Ddvid^Saitl^eter^A-Uxandtr^&c. But that this may be imre diftin&ly opend,three things muftbeconfidercd.

i. Firtf, from what the godly truely fanftificd may fall j how farre others.

2. Sccondly,from whence falls come^and the difference of them.

3. Thirdly, what are the fymp-tomes or fignes of a date declining from God.

To the firft, a man not having the true grace of the ele&, may fall from all outward privileges,which hee holdeth as a member of the

vifible

1

the triall of a Christians Eftate.

^■^<—

yifible Church. Secondly 3 from the effefts of his Grace in life and conversion. Thirdly, from the very habituall gifts, which were the fountain whence his fruics flowed. Thus bee may come to be twice dead, and in worfe cafe than ever.

The Lordsehofenroay fall from their outward prerogatives: hue that divine nature ftill abideth ia them, and it is onely with their graces, as ic -is with-the mindein diftempers of melancholy, and phrenfiff.5 with the Sin in eclipfes; with the tree when leaves and fruits.faile xr 5 with the naturall life when ic moveth not, ne yet breathethfenfiblc: which in difea-tes of the Mother is ofcen discerned. Their faith is an ever failing, faith; their life an etcmall life; their feed a teed abiding in them.

Now for the fecond^ vi*** what are theeaufes of falling away, and that (b diverfly 5 this opened will knd a mere thorow light to the former. The caufes which worke

The triaO of a Cbriftians Eft ate.

in withdrawing us are inward or outward r Bin the verity of thefc declinings fpriagech chiefely from the inward.

The caufe in the Lords children is, the ftate of their grzce^which is fuchas hath ftill rcliqies offline dwelling with it.

The caufe of the others totall fall, is an eflentiall defcft in their grace, which teache:h not to make a true union betwix: Chriti and them. nor yet to produce true fan-ftification. In a word, the caufe of the ones pcrfevering, and theo-thcrs totall deficiency, is not only to betaken from Gods power and gracious pleasure, from Chrifl his intercetfion, from the ftinting of Satan co the heele of the true Chxiftian feed : bat alfo from the efTintiall qualification^ and d>(po-fi:ion of the grace beftowed upon either. But this is a diffi:ulty further to be cleared j How wee may formally diftinguifh thele gifts which axe in the Chriftian that

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8 I fbetriatlofa CkriftiansEftatt.

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pcrfevereth from thofethat are in him that temporifcth* The difference is double:

i. Firtt, in the union which is made by them.

2. Secondly, in the different prodt'ftions which follow upon fo different manners of being united with Chrift.

To open the frft, w fetdowne this conclufion : The ipirituall gift of the teroporifer doth meerly enlighten him ro fee Chrift, buc doth not move his will to go unto Chrift., as given him of God, that he might not perifh but have eter-nall life. His application is an overweening hope, taken vp by his owne preemption; it is not a motion which the fpirit doth cli-ciateand draw out^buciuchasis hisenlightning*

In the Word of Chriftare two things: firft, the truth ofit,* true word: Secondly, the goodneffe of itj a good word. That may be apprehended, God giveth his chofen

not

The triaU of a ChriftUns Eft ate.

not onely an appreheofion, ia the underftanding of the truth, and goodnefleof itj but a motion of affiance, which maketh the foule go to and clafp about Chrift whom it beholdcth. Hence ic is.thatcom-ming and b. lie ving, lob. 1.1 2. fob. I <5.35.37^ s apprehending,a5when a thing is taken by the handle: and from this property of Faith doth come that internal! union twix; the believer and Chrift, which mi-keth them dwell mutually one in the other. Hence it is that the true believer doth more afLft Chnft, price him, joy in him, more than the benefits by them.

Now the Papifts faith is a meere enlightning, not having any confidence within the corapafiT: of it, (for a man may be found in their faith, and in damnable defpaire at the fimeinftant) and the tempori-fers faith having no more than an apprehenfioninthe underftanding of the good word of (alvation joy-acd with prcfuraptuous perfwafi-

on

w — ■ i ■ ■ i i I I - ■ — —

Thetriallofa ChriftiansEftaU.

on and fallible hopes conceived by himfelfe on falfe reckonings: theft cmnot innerly unite him with Chrift; but looke as a Wen ?s (b united in the body by the skin in-compaflbg it, and fome kinde of continuation with the other members j but hath not fiaewes,nerves A arteries (hot into it from head and .heart, as the other parts: fothefc by their common illumination aid profeffion hare conjunftion with the body,but want the influence of that more necre ligament of chat fiffimced motion of the will,which onely floweth from Chrilt into his proper members. And this is the firft ground of their after failing: for looke as ftanding-waters, or never fuch torrents which have no head of living fpririg-waters to feed themj cannot in time but dry up: fo thtfe not having Chrift the Well-head of all grace 3 wbatfoe-ver is iri them, in time ftdech aad vaniflieth to norhing, F*omdcfeft of interoallunion^

which

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which is, as ic were,the fountaine, commeth a difference in grace de-rived. Thetemporifer$,beingftch as doth never tracly humble him, fuch, as is fuperficiall,! nlinccre: io a word, fuch as doth not truely (anftifiehim: by rcafon of which defeft, it is nor permanent*

Firft, not being within the gracious light of this Sonne ofrighte-oufocfle.the depth of his wound is never gaged,and though he know much humiliation, yet nee is cever truly hunblcd. Firft,hee fteth not with humble coufcioufoefie the fhfoll depravitio3 of his nature: hisdifpleaiureitmoreagainft the fruits, than rootes whence they if-fued. Tdul a Pharifec knew not concupiscence 5 a Papift acknowledged not this as liofull after hee is once baptiftd, whereas this was the higheft pitch olPsuts and D+* vids pi niceatiall cxercife.

But may not the temporifer know and maintainc the truth of this Dottriae, yea, propound it

fruit-

I.

!

fruitfully co ochers? Anfwir. He may ( by faith infofed ) conceive andafTcnttoir, yea, deliver it to others, but fo,that the power of it doth not refle&on himftlfe, fbas 1 co be humbled in thisrefpc&: bat as the Moone giveth us light which is not rooted in the body of her,forthatcontinuethdarkfbmc: fo they receive light from Gods Word, and fee it forth to others, but have none in themfelves. 5% cond!y,not being within grace,his confeflion and paffion under fin is hot free and voluntary, but extorted either from (bme evidence of light, or fa& evincing him j as S*ul to David confeffed; or the racke of Gods terrours inforcing it from him. Whereas the children of God, who now fte, that the more their finne is, themoregrace fuperabounded; that their bafe-neffe is his glory, whofe grace they live under, they frankly, yea, delightfully humble themfelvcs in confefliog theirvilenefle. Thirdly,

not

.

Tbt triaSof aChrijlians Efltte.

not being within the grace of Chrift with (bund affiance,he never grieveth at finne as it is enmity a-gaioft his God: for to be cenrrice in this regard, implyeth a love to God, which cannot be in him who hath not found God loving him firft: hee is vexed at his fins in re-ff eft of hismiferies hee feethim-minentjOr only as they are world-ward, fhamefall aberrations from praftice of fuch apparent vermes, which men may repute glorious, and much a&&. In a word, hee is never truely humbled, which his obedience being partial! doth wic-nefle; for hee will cake and leave in that which hee hearech at his owne plcafure :yea,ifcrofies come, hee is too proud to humble him-fclfe under Gods hand; he is lifted up above others, whom hee out-ftrippeth in common graces: he is cenforious, without con(cience of that naturall condition under (in, which is common to him with o-thers. Aad from hence it is, that

at

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7 hi itiaUtfa CbriftiansEftati. I

at length hi* grace f ilcth: for as a houfe builded on the fands, with* out a due ground-worke hid $ or plants unrooted cannot indnrc : fo this frame which wanteth the 1 foundation and root of grace((ucb is humility is) cannot perfift..

Sfcondly, tlay from this prime dcfeO: of inner union, ait the tcm-poriftrs graces produce dare faper~ ficiall, Height, foil of overture: wheras tbofe in found believers are fol id,fubftanciall ,not re i mtphjicus itfztkmfa things which tbough outwardly tfrcy have the apparency^ yet are inwardly defc&ive. Hence It is that JW calleth their godlinefle, a figure of godlineflfe, 2Tf^3 5, their knowledge an ex* ternall forme of knowledge, Rom. 2.20. that Cbhftraaketh?Hthey h*ve,a (emblance,a feeraing onely, £a^8.'i8, for Iooke as a wilde hcrbe,tho'Jgh it have but the name and comm »n nrture, yet it djffe-reth much from one which gro-I weth in gardens, better manured 1 and

Tkttnallrf j Chrifiians Eftjte.

VMBMK 1 ■■ | I I HI

anddr fled; and as a blew, dud with blockwood, choagh k ieeme brigbccr a while, yetisnotfofub-ftanriall as that which is woaded (and therfore we fay ic is a true colour :) (b here, chough the graces of the temporifer have the fame name and comon nature, (for they arc iofcriour woikes of the (pirit) yea, though ihey may exceede in (hew, yet for the truth and fub-ftance, they are nothing to thofe that arc wrought in houeft hearts; and from hence come two things. Firft, their graces are foone grownc up; for a thing fuperficiall is done in halfe chetimethata fub-ftantiall thing is a working. They get the (lart; and, while many a true heart before them in the Lord, is complaining of wants^and weak-nefle^fiufull inclinations, ufurping inthem-thcyarecarried,asitwere, ferftltnm, ro their perfe&ion. But as a true birth, though fl )w!y at the firft, yet ftill taketh increafe, whereas a mole gruweth fitter at / t^e

I

■

,

1 The trial! of a ffiriftianr Ejlate.

the firftj but (bone ceafcth: and looke as in nature, things the foo-neft ripe,are thefboneftroccen :S > ic fares wich thefe leap-Chriftians.

Secondly, I (ay their graces are infincere, their hearts are never purged from fome Cm which they love and like to live in, forfioifter ends inrercaining the meffige of Gods mercy^which is not that they may reverence him, and ferve hira all their daks without flivUhter-rocr: but they gladly heare ir, as hoping that they have a protettion by ir, though they hold on in their own courfes. For this it is that the cle&s faith, which never faileth, is called a faith without hypocri-fie; that the true believer is onely (aid to have an honeft heart.

As God hath made (bme remedies in nature, fuch as purge univerfilly every peccant humor, as the Phyficians Catholicon, &c. Someagaine that purge, cam de-/e#*,that expell choler,but meddle not with melancholy; phlegme, I but

Tht trial! of a Chrijlians EJiatt. I j y

but ftirre not cholcr; So this medicine of grace, which God infu&th into an honeft heart, icisaC*ch )-Iiquc cxpellcr of all kno wne fifinej, great or little. The grace of the teroporifer purgeth out the root of no un • reprt.fleth the moving aad paroxyfmes, as it were, of fome | choifc fins onley, as in Herod. And hence it is that the grace of the temporifer doth not continue: for as come growing up with twitch, briers, thornes, is at length (mothered; and as wholefome'meate in a ftomacke full of flying choler, is at length vomited : fo raigning fin gr owing up with thefe feeming graces, doth never ceafe tilhhey be brought up and discharged, Lnk.8. ia. 13,14. Thus much to deare that difference of graces in Gods children and others, which caufetb that the falls of the one are ffot totall nor finall, which is incident to the condition of the other. Now taking it as granted, that the Lords children fall, byreafon

I $ I The triaU of a ffirijlfdmt Ejlate.

mm

I

i

uf chc reliqurs of fin dwelling in them,! come to name chc cxternall means, which a&ually bring forth into ADoftafic this inbred defe&i-Thefe fometimes wofkc it

on

more violently at once^ fbmetime facceffively, by fome hairious wafting fin, which like aftrongpoi-fon dWparchcth all qutckly.Croflcs repeated, and gradually increafed, lures of pleafures andprofits, un-comfortablencfle, which accom-panieth by many racane$Chrifti< an courft s, (dead worke is quickly given over) examples of the multitude, a ftrong back-bia?, by which the divell fometimes draw-eth from perfifting in grace^ffence at the firopl city, which to eye of flali fceracth to be in Chriftian couries, at diHention in opinions amongft men of the fame proftfli-on, at the fins obkrved, and fails onceknowne byfuch, who make pvofeffioo; the ieducing calls of falieTeachers 9 the glorious fhewes of holiueffe,aud whatfoevcr things

ol

The trUU of a CbriftUm Eft ate.

ofthisnature,by w ch men through Satans working are with-drawne.

Now followeth the third thing, the fymptoms or fignes of a decli-Ding fbule. This one thing muft be premifed, left that weake ones fhould cift the ft Ives further do wa by miftakingtbc matter. The pretence ofchefe evils, andtence of due di/pDfirions or aftioni, are note, ▼il fignes of a dangerous declining (bule,but when they are willingly carried without remorfe^ rcnued defires and endeavours afcerthe contrary: for as one may be without Gods gracious pretence to his feeling, and yet not a forfiker of God •, fo one may be without thefe things, and not leaving them, but rather left of them (Gods wife-dome for many ends fo difpenfing) while by griefe, faich, and renucd defires, he doth follow after them.

This confederation interlaced for the right under (landing of the matter in hand. Let this be the firft figQCjVi*. a feeble, livelcfle aftion

B of!

The triaHvf sCbriftians Efitte.

^—^——«—»• -^— i—ii >——^———^

1 of grace willingly admitted: v. g.

'as when a man can performe a-ny ChriftUnduty without all power fpirituall and good devotion; neverthelefle doth not chalenge himfelfe, as if it were ill wich him in that regard, Lafa tttiones Ufas argKBntfACuhatts:A.$ when the eye feeth not as ic hath done, wee may prefume the inftmmencs or faculties are not as they have beene : So here, when we doe not things with the vigour we have dene, it is a figne of infirmity, and a faculty inwardly or outwardly hindred: but when wee can thmke well e« nough of this ftate, ic is a figne of Apoftafie and wilfufl declining ;Iuskifh reaching* are the fits forerunners comoniy Gods people declining have fallen firft to thefe formalities, to performance of duties in a perf«n£tory fafhioa, the heart and raine6 far from the Lord, in them.

Thefccond figne isaprepofte-rcusappeticeof anwhol Jjm food,

liked

The triiB of a CbriJHdnJ Ejtate.

liked well enough, no way diftur-bant to us: when men can be with- f out preaching, or at leaft without any chit moveth their confciences; when they can extol frothy windy ftuffe, which filleth them, but never feedeththem,(o astheirfoules are not the better for it toward God. It is afignethemanis willing to fleepe that draweth the car-tabes about him: It is a preforop-tion, that thefcare willing co nap in their fins, that lovenotfucha tight of troth as fliould awaken them. Not bearing the wholeiorae word is the preamble of Apoftafie. A Third token isindigeftionof thtf we beare, borne contentedly; hen the heat of love doth not fo digeft things, chat they mightafter dtftributcd into the veines of very good word and worker be-caufe they jeceive not the truth in love, &c/2 Tbeff. 2. When mcate is takeo in* ana pafftth away not lltered by the ttomacke, it lcaveth :hc b^dy in an atrophie, that is,

B a fuch

31

h

mm

The triaHof sCbrijlitnj Ejttte.

fuch a tafte wherein ic is not ncu-ritbcd: So here.

The fourth figne is an inordinate appetite after things hurtful! and noxious: as when a man feelech no hurt, though hee intermeddle immoderately in the cares of the world j though hee iotemperately quaffe in thefe finfull pleafures which laft but a fea(on : when a man loves to follow the goo J healths, wee may boldly fay, hee loves to breed ill hcalch. Worldly cares and pleafures are the things of which che fbule is drunken, and furfcts^and theft are the thornes and weeds with which the feed of graces never thrivetb.

A fifth figne may be the ditaf. fefting of our brethren, whom we have acknowledged as begotten ofGod. The Divell cannot bringa man who hath knowne any good, to confront and deipile him direft-ly : therefore hee enrreth them with this politickctraine; hcrea-chech iheou fir ft to be bold and trample

Tbetriallofa ChrsjHansEftate.

23

trample do wne his Image, and Co ac length bring them to defpife God, 2 Tim. 1. 4. Demos (*% it is likely) turning Apoftatc,forfooke the Apoftle. t

The fixch figne is, when there is felt no relu&ation in regard of our daily weakneflcs SclcfTer fins, but they dfgeft with us: if the (bule were not fallen well afl:cpe, i' could not corxoft lb well. When nature (things able to provoke taken in) makethnot refiftance, her ftrengch is feeble :So here. Bat Mr he a man is growne to th:s,that he can go on in his ienpenitency without checke., it is an eviJenc fignc he is downe the wind in a wiifujl declination -yea,that he is farre gone in ir. Thus you have heard chat fome fail from their grace; and for further declaration you havf, feene cleared,how farre all forts may fal ? ; whence comraeth their falls, wich the difF:rence of them. Thirdly, what are the iadicants of a foule declining.

B % The

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■I

7"^ triaSefd Cbriftunu Eft*te.

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The ufe of all fc; Firft, as to ftirreusup to take comfort in the true wcrkc Which God hath be-gun; fo to make fare that we have received ftch grace as (Kail not faile: would wee not be loth to reare fucb a frame in a material! building, which fhould after come downe upon cur heads? We are builders, kt us make fare to digge fodcep, and ground our workefo well, that though it fhould (hake, (as they lay,firnaehoufes will) yet ic may be farre from feare of ruine. In talcing gold, wee refirfc wafhed and light golds or clipped, wee wrigh them,ring them,&c. In re* ceiving grace be not lefle carefull that it be right currant, not wanting a grainc of due weight.

Secondly this, that many fall a-way^ muft awaken us to more cir-cumfpeftion ^ though it light up-on fome men only, it is every tnans terrour. We have great reafon, for wee live in moft perilous times, wherein the holy Ghoft hath warned

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Tbetriallofa ChiJfiansEJfate.

25

nedasthat the dampe of fin (hall make the love of many waxe cold: wherein the contagion of Apofta-fic is epidemical!; is growne a popular difeafe. For now what lake-warranefle?wjjia?a weakpulfcbea-teth every where ? men care not to deale with themfelves to hold their thoughts to heavenly things, to a-waken their affe&ions, to renew their faich, to blow up devotion; to live in an holy contention; nay, this in our dales is counted a fu-perfluous unncceflary courfe, forged in the head of fome over-forward fcllowes j it is the undifcreete fervor of green youth, which ages wildome wil take up.Ochers more moderacely fpoken, thinke that every thing new is dainties^ and that prime affL&ions cann X be retained :afig-leafe,r>a'ure,arr 5 grace, go froTilefieperfc&tomoreper-feft. Whether dotha childat eight yeeresoreighteenc moft love and joy in his inheritance? Doeftthou not count thy prentifes two te^d

B 4 yeeres \

The tri*B*fd Cbriftians Efttte.

:

yceres better than fourc of his firfl? In ftead of appetite to the Word, now feme chinke the Sabbath may be tolerably fin&ified without a-ny preaching : feme count it e* nough, if they be whg re preaching; is., let it be what it will be; farre from fuch as is able to worke oo their foules; as if the orders of the perfbn, not the fupernaturall gifts of knowledge and wiftloraemade the Set man (but thefe muft not be fevered:) fome count fuch plaine preaching (as heretofore was effc-ftuall in them) kffediUgcnr, and leflc learned. Thus the DiveJl not able quite to make them caft off the ordinance, perfwades them chat change is no robberie; and that they may fleepe the quieter (ncg!e<5Hng fuch preaching as was powcrfull in them) hecaftsthem this pillow, fuggefting tbatthey leave not that which was e&ftuall in them toward God, but that one-ly which was indiligent and unlearned.

Againej

The triad of a QortfiUns EJtate. i 2 7

Againe, in ilead of working the Word upon our affettioas, how many concent theuifelves to cxer-cife their criiickes,this or that was wJI fpoken, &c. and there is an end? For the worl^ mm have their hands in ic elbow-deep; yea, many who in. their'times have made fhew of a more heavenly minde, fume are now fo (hie to ^heir brethren, that they will not Iooke at them, not meeteonthe fame fideofcheftrcete, not know them. How many, whofe heart* w^uld have fwitcen them in leffer offences can now commit as great, and ic never upbraids them ? nay, eflerme this tendcraefle ftrapu-lousfimplicity, and mclancholikc aufteritiy. The more vulgar jheo this difeaft is, the more cautelous wee nuft be.

Thirdly, wee Ice now that who will keepe life and pewer in his courfe, endeavouring a good conference in all things, they rauft paflc the pikes of cvill tongues*^

B 5 which \

I 28

Obfer-3.

■ 1 1 11 »■■ 1 1——1 iii 1 __^^^

The triall of a Cbrijlitns Eft**.

which arc ftukenagainft them.For now fuch heare, as if they were humorifts, new-fangUfts, PrccHi-I ans,ptoud,finguIar, fimple, melan-cholike perfons,what not > Finally, the DiveZl to make revolts^now refines his wits, and turncs Angell of Hght, hanging out our owne colours, that hec may the eafilier ftirprize us; and pretending perfections, which we yet want,dotk tranfport many, whom neither creffes nor allurements would pre-vaile againft. So that wc had need, ifevcr,to walkc warily, Iooki )gto the author and finifher of our faith: yea, thankefully, that foin cvill times we arekept (though wcake-Iy) alive in ht* GghcThus much of the fecond doftrine.

The third followeth i* theft words; to perdition, viz>, of the foute, 2 P*/t2,20.21 • even as hee that goech out of the light, muft needs come into darkenefle; fohe that icaveth the living God, the fouotaine of blefled life,muft needs

foil

[f,IH I I , C I t >■ ! '

TbetrhHofa ftrsfiuns Eftate.

fill into perdition. The relapfe in-into any ficknefle ismoredange-roas,than the firft entrance into it: for nature is now more enfeebled, much (pent in her former refifiacr; agiine, thedifeafeis much ftreng-thened as a prcvailiogconqueror: So in thefe declinings-from the heahhfbme fiate of grace in {bme (ore at:aiRed,fin is ftronger(thedi-vell coming with ftveo worfe (pints) and our capacity of receiving health leflcr^ we being twice dead, and for the degree more removed from grace 3 ?han ever before^ this end befall? backfliders raoft deservedly: forthey off'r God the grea-teftiudignity, it being better they hadoever admitted him, than having taken him in, to difbdge him caufcLfly. Again,when fuch as for-getting their milirary Sacrament, fleale from their colours,are juftly punirtied with temporall dea:h; howdefervedly arethefepanifhed withctemall perdition, whore- J fpeft not that warfare, to which

they \

79

1

The triaU of a Cbriftsans Eft ate.

I they bound themfclves by Sacra-ire t,who flinch awayjleaving thac difplaid enfignc of a zealous prc-feffion^ under which fomtimetbey havcfeived.

But how can deflrt'&ion'follow on declining courfes^ when Gods I chofei cannot pciHhjand che other fort u ere never inflate of falvation> A/tfTh\$ is faid to be the end of k, not abfolutely without exception^ but refpe&ively, if wee by repentance take not (freight fieps the fooner, & get our halting healed.

To the firftit may be aofweredj that the Apoftacy of Gods children in it felf tendech to dcftru&ior jit is his mercy that preventeththerain this way ,not thefruit of their bick-ffidfrg. Secondly, they after a fort dsftroy thcfclvcs,when they brirg their fpirituall life into a fwoone, i and lea ye not themft! ves breath or motion difcernable.For the wicked though they neyer were thorowly Tindicated or redeemed from de-&t\xSdoa y yet to the jadgemenr of

charity j

-.<-

charity chey feemed fo:now it is ufu-all to (peak of things not according as they are,butas they appeare, Se-condly,they,though they never had that found eternal!life,yet they had fuch a life as is in a Wen;and chough che rootes of their griefe were not brought away, ycc the effe&s were fo retrained, and for a time fafpetv ded.tbat to their (etming th^y wc:c I made wd ! .Thirdly,they are laid t8 fall info deft uftion 3 chough ch*y are in i*; becanfe they by Apottacy,goc to the heigh: &confummationot r 5 -as we are (aid by a godly courfe, to go to life ererlaltingjwhich in fomc degree wee have already. And th* truth is, that falling away doth bring the untinneiy judgment* ;doth procure an efFcftuall delivering tc Satanj who doth afterwards more fully fill them with his efficacyrFor as God maketh the fincerctt Saints often of thofe, who have bcene the foulcft finners: So here Satan^wher. he gets fach an one,who hath bcene

in (hewan AogtUcf ligbc, heedotb

make

■■R

The triattefa Cbrijiians Eftatc.

! make of him an incarnate divelL In \ nature the fweetcft things whe thty turn,become the (b wreft.This mo' -tallfickneflewe muft take heed of; and if our love, zeale/enderneirc of conference be diminifhed, wee muft timely feek Cut for remedy. I know men thinke,we are not fo far gone; once beloved,alwaics beloved •■we have left nothing but meere curioii-fy,melanchoIikeaufterity, men in many confederations reproveable; fucb as thofe, who joine not with them, we hope may be in Gods fa-vour^ and goe to heaven. But never take fuch paines to deceive your | (elves; thefe vaine words will not ftill rockc the conference afleepe. If thy fpirituall aftiocs be fallen a-fleep,thy contention againft the evil dwelling in thee ceafcd^ thy appe* cite afcer fincere milke 8c meat aba-tcd 3 thy tendernes of con/ciencc im-paired,, and thou canft fit under all cheie things without repentant for-row; aflure thy felfe^hc end of this (if thou prevfintcft it aot by repen-

rance)

n.i * i < ■•■;; r im^ < m lafttBcaaai . ii n I

tance) (hall be deftru&ion. Luic-warmnes (thogh men think it a part ofptudcncc)it is odious with God, and will make us be caft up with di A pleafure: true ic is that Gods wrath is not prefentlyefpiedagainftftch, but this is onely becaufc wee fee not the fpirituall judgements, wherewith they are ftricken; and we fee in nature the thing is long bred and conceived., before it is brought forth and maoifeftcd.

Secondly, we muft be exhorted here ro (land conftantly in our cour-fes, who doe waike with God in forne life and power, though not without great weaknefle; let us not give over our labour and holy contention, to which the prefence of fia & defeft of righteou&efls have pricked us:this work of grace goeth tgainft the ftrearoe of nature, if we intermit to ply theoarc of holy ex-ercifc* wind and tide will carry us backagainc.Where vveceafc to improve by good husbandry the grace received, there it b?gtnnctb to be

impaired.

> ».«—>

Qbfer- 4.

I

! impaired,True ic is,that the fluking \ up of oar (elves, rcfiftinglbth^ the reftleflcafpiring after things which we are fiill caft froro with violence, are in their kinds Uborious: but re-membcr,what raeo do in their earth-j ly warfare; r hty(for pay oftwoftul-lings a day) march thorow places often full of difficulty^ lb (the ground being their bed)in theayre, no covert over therr; in their viftu- j alls they are fore ftrcightned, often they carry their lives in their hands, and fight in the Canons mouth: to thinke upon this once/ts enough to make us afliamed of our fbf ncfle and cowardice. But we are of faith, as we fay, a: d men of courage & wifdome. Butalas^firft who hath theft things ? ftcondly, ^ho doth put them forth ? thirdly, who is conftant in holding them, and making (hew of then as ocofion is offered ?

We may obfcnre this u a fourth j inftnuSion, what is the property of; afoond believer or beliefe, t//*. to

pcrfe ver c when they arc cried & op-pofed: this faith is a precious^ fin-cere,nevt r failing faith; it groweth from one degree toanochcr^the true believer, hee holdeth the faith a-gainft hell gates thcmfeives 3 thati$, the powers of hell which oppofe him in it: which that we may more fmicfully u derftand;wc muft know that where (bund faith is wrought, there the divell plaieth the a Aidant, bending all his force to di£arme them of this divine fhield,by draw-ingthembackeagaine to unbeliefe and firtfe confidences wfaich will not helpe them.

To this purpofe hee muftercth erodes, vomicteth deluges of falfe flaader* ;ftirres up theneereft friends of fuch as are now come to God by faich,to perftcute them mod bitterly : fbmctimehefhewechthera ira-poflibili:ies f in fenfcof feeing that they defire and believe: fomecimes he troubles their fceiings,that fo he may (hake them in their believing: fometimes hee withdraweth their

faith

3* | ThttriaBtfdCbriJHansEJlAte.

..-•-

faith bjrfalfcpbjc&s,which he pro-pofeth to them; but if heecannot break off cheir belief,then he laieth about to repreffe the fervency and the renucd exercife of their beliefe* by unfettling us with fotne new devices, when wcare more intent$ by making our exercife painfull, and uncofortable, overcafting the light which was wont to ftiinetousio the promifes j hindring us from feeling the fwecc comfort in them; ex-cfcfngthe reliques of fbth,deadne$, incor.fhr.cy that are in us:fomeiiaie by caufkfle fears & finfullftiamefaft-nefle hee wfchdraweth ns from our holy devout exercife. But this found faith quencheth allthefe fiery darts which are throwneagainftit; and like as a tree which fhakeo, rotteth more deeply;or like as a torch w ch beaten, blazeth more brightly; or like as a ftar, which when the aire is obfcuredjfliinethntoftclearely: Ibis it with this rootptorch,thisglorious ftar; thefe powers of darknefle doe [nothing in the end^but lend it a more

bean-

*-

Tlictritllofa Cbrtfthw Ejlatc*

37

beautifull luftre, thai it ever puc forth whife it was not beroundtd with any fuch enmities.

True it is, thac the beft faith may hang the wiog, bsing wcatherbea-ten, and fteme to retire under feme more vehement delaies or tentation: but that which flieth to day, figh-teth again* to morrow; and like as it is with thofe, whofe going bacVe helpeth them to take their rife and fetch their leap more Co nodio^fl/: So here, faith (through him that is the author &fiii(her of her)by how much (hz gavebacke,by fo much in her renued indeavoursfhecom^ech forward more fucceflefully. From this ground many come to be reproved : Some there are, whowill feeme to follow fincericy & fan&'t-fication, while making (hew of theft things isgainfull^but if crofles come they will lay down their weapons, and Will provide to flecpe in whole skins, whatfocver become of other mat'ers. Some, if they be delayed beyond their own time^aft up their

hopes,

The triaU tfa Cbriftlans EJlate.

• -- c

hope^and are ready proudly to fay, It is in raine to fcrveGod.Amongft the Lords children** Show many arc there who followtiot faith, growing up from faith to faitb,rencwing the exercife of \t in faftningon the gracious promife£m j hich are made unto us? Men that will check them-lllfcsif they omit the aft of mercy, oftcftifying truth, of juftice where occaficn is offere^blamenot them* felves fcroeglcfting to renew rheir faith towards God, when hlspro-mift s renewed, or experience of his goodneffe and trmhdo^h call for ic from u?.

Some there at e^ who weakly fore-fpeak things, fignifyoig their oobe-btlicf,by fiy ing^ht y (hall never fee this or that evill mending wich thc 5 that ic is but a folly to attempt further* feeing wee ftrire againft the ftreame.But this is not to be carryed wich full faile of faithfull perfwafi-on on him who hath fpoken good to u«, but through attending to that fen(e & realbn Ipeaketh, to yeeld to unbeliefe. Second-

■ ; ■ ■ •

The trial! ofaChrlflians Eft ate.

Secondly,we may hence here gather the truth of oar beliefe. Hath ic ftood through help of Gods grace in temati-on> Chrift letteth usfee that hee was our fupporrer,it is a true figne of grace never failing: buildings which ftand when winds acid ftorms beat on chem f arc prefumed to bs fare grounded, whereas the paper-walls andpaln:ed caftles of ihefe who have not mfained grace, cannotindure any (bund afl iulc which is nude againft then.

The hft thing 13 be marked if^what it is that doth bring us to feefdvacion here and everlafhngly, ic is ourbe-li ife, i Pet. 1.5. Gods plejfure of working this or that forus,isfirft made knowne by his Word revealing it. S -condly, i: is delayed for a triall of them to whom it is given. Third]y,ic is executed. Now the revelition of this future pleafurconcly faich appn -henderh; the delay (wherein m my occurrences are incidc it) fpeaking chc contrary this faich beared, by cleaving to that which formerly it heard from God. When the thing is executed,

3*

Obft^U

1

« ,^——«——^^ .^ ■ —————««——»«—— «■ 1 ..

ltd, then faith is changed with tight • fo thac it is plainer that faith bringeth ustofeefalvatioo, for it never givcth over till the thing be in prefent; it doth kcepe us within the tower of Gods impregnable ftrength for the* prefent, which is oar jfcfety againft all! enemies j ix doth bring us out of all) troubles by holding Gods gracious j Word; as a man comraeth from a deepe dungeon, by climbing a fcaling ladder call to hipi^ or fittiog upon an Eagles wing which would mount up wich him.

In the Chapter following there is a catalogue of glorious believers^ the end of their faith being like wife re* corded. Whence we may fir ft fee that errour of Papifts, who though they a!cribe our firft forgivencfle of our Gnnes to faith; yet our after-rightc^ oufceffeand falvation they referre to good workes, penall (atisfaftions, application of the Churches trea. Giric^ &c. withdrawing themfelves from fcuth^ whea now they arc brought to be in ftate of grace* but

-jfrich

Thz trial!tf a Chrlflians EJlate, j 41

faith is new to ccafe till the thing believed be now in fight, neither will the fame thing be got both by faith anc{ workes; for thefe are fuch as will not be compounded > the Apoftle being wiraefle.

Againe, hence we (ee how wofoll a thing ic is to caft away our confidence, we fling away the plaifter that {haul j healeus 5 for whatfoever evillswere upon us 3 yet holding our faith on the truth and mercy of God in Chrift, they {hould varjifh away as (hewers^ which oaourgarments 5 dry up h time and come to nothing. Ye^,their danger is henccdifcovered, who though they make conference of rcurcher, a-dultery 3 in jaftice; yet care not to live in unbsliefe, which is of all finnes the mc ft dangerous, for the other (hould not hurt us deadly, were it not for thi?; that wee will not by faith take that medicine which (hould healeus,

Sccondly,this mart incourage us to ptrfevcrein our faith: as Chrilllook-edtothe end of the Craffc, fi muft we looke to the end of our faith, that

we

ObjeR-Anfx*.

1he triati $f a CkrijtidnrEftate.

we may indure all difficulties the better, with which wee are encountred» True it is, that men are often moft deceived, where they truft moft; bur leaning on the Lord, and waiting on him, thou (hall never be deceived, no mifleofhispromHed falvation.

Bat in temporary evills wee cannot aflure our felves of deliverance.

Anfo. The truth is, we fee not de livcrance, becaufe wee exercife n faith fa particular promifes (o farrea we might. Secondly, wrmuft ever be affurcd of iflue, foch as is j jyned with filvation. Thirdly,though it keepe us not out of the fire, yet kith will keepe us from burning,or taking hurt in our moft fiery trialls; wherefore let us renew our faith in Gods precious promifes, afluring our (elves that the end of it (hall be falvation of foule and body in the day of our Lerd Jcfus Chrift. To whom with the Father and Spirit,&c. t/trnen.

FINIS.

I