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To the truly Honourable and c ]fo-

ligious Ladies , my Lady Marquejfe of Argyle, and my Lady Anne Campbell her eldeft daughter : Grace and Teace through Jefus Cnrift.

T is the good and wife way of God , in matters concerning this temporal life, to make manifeft his bounty and kindneffe to all men, how unkind and wicked fbever they be,and not leave himfelfe without a witnefle againft: complainers :But in the mat-' ters of falvation, and things which doe belong to eternall life , he ufeth not to extend his fpe-ciall love fo largely 5 for even the external! meanesoffaving knowledge are beftowed upon few Nations and People > in comparifon of the whole race of mankind, pfal. 147. 19, 20. Hefhewetb his word unto Jacob, and his flames and his judgements unto Ifrael 5 he hath not dealt fo with any Nation,and as for his judgements, they have not known them. And though the people be few to whom the offer of falva-A 3 tioss

The Mpiftle Dedicatory.

tion is made, in comparifon of the reft of the world 5 yet are they many in comparifon of thofe who finde grace in the eyes of the Lord, to accept the offer of Grace tendred unto them in Chrift Jefus ^ for many are called, but few chofen y Mat. 22.14. And albeit it be true, that Gods calling and ele&ion hach place iq all rankes and eftates of perfons, higher andlower, learned or unlearned, rich and poor-, yet doth this grace ftretch itfelfe to many moe of the meaner fort of people then of the wife, wealthy and honorable in the world, 1 Cor. 1.26* Tee fee your calling brethren , how that not many wife men after the fiefh , not many mighty^ not many Noble are called $ but God hath ch of en the foolif) things in the world, <jrc. Therefore fo much the greater is the favour of God, which your fouls have found, mofi Honorable jhzx you are made fome of thofe few', yea afteffo comfortable a manner, that the daughter finding her felfe led by her Mothers hand, in her tender youth unto Chrift the Saviour, looketh on her as her mother twife 5 and the Mother having power and place to draw the vaile of her daughters virginallmodefty,retirednefTe, and prudence, which concealeth much of the luftre of accompliiliments from the fight of others who ftand at a greater diftance, doth look up-pon her notable endowments, arid growing graces, asmorethena recompence of all the

paines

The Epiftle Dedicatory.

paines fuftained in bringing forth, and beftow^ ed upon education of fuch a plant, fo well fitted for that which is mod defireabkin earth and heaven \. And thus much I have reafon for me to fayl, not only becaufe it is my partes I have occafion,to ftir up parents^to ftudy to havetheir children timoufly engaged to the Lord,in hone to have the more early and abundant comfort by them in their owne time-, but alfb becaufe I have been witnes of the Chriftian behaviour of both your Ladifhips,in no fmall try all of your faith & patience by the troubles of the times, both publick and private, for a number # of« years together-, which experience hath now goodufe to fit and prepare your honours for a further exercife true beleevers are (ubjecfi: unto in this life, and for what this prefent time doth call unto all to be prepared for. This conditioh being m all ages incident to the godly, fhould not be looked upon in our time as if fome ftrange thing did befall us : for it is the Lords ordinary way of dealing with his children,~by changes of their condition outward and inward, by vififfitude of flraits and outgates , by intercourfe of CrofTes and Comforts, and by much variety of feverail conditions, powerfully totraine, advance, and fettle their faith, andtoincreafe the growth of all graces, accompanying falvation in them 5 for what we cannot con-certe at one leflfon, becaufe

the EfifiU Dedicatory.

caufeweare dull , he teachethus by parts, in many & fundry inftru&ions^all tending to bring us to a further meafure of humiliation , and felf denyal on the one hand,and of fubmiffion unto God,& faith in Chrift on the other hand: And this way of God is made plain by the pra&ice of the Saints,and laid open before usin the book of the Pfalmes 5 whereof at this time I have onely taken a third part to handle by way of EfTay, thereby to finde the advice of judicious brethren, how to fatisfie, and edifie the Reader more in what is behind to be handled, if God be pleafed to give further employment andafliftance in this fervice $ And this which' hese is offered to the edification of the Lords people, I have put forth under your Honours name,becau(e of your conftant affe&ion to the ftudyof the Scriptures, and refpe&to all the meflengers of Truth, and to me for the Truths caufe , for which I w ill ftill remaine

Jour Honours much obligedferrant in the Gofpell.

- David Dickson.

T O

The READER.

?^jlHriJlian (Reader, In this EJfay on the Tjalmes, as in other like pieces on , fome other Books of Scripture , fent forth to tfa world from me, a part of my dejigne is jlill the Jame, that hereby I may try, if it may he the Lords will, to

£irre up fome more able injiruments to y open briefly, in this mould, or any o-ther they pleafe better y the chiefe Do.-tlrines treajured up in the ftore-houfe of

holy

To the Reader.

holy Scripture^ whereby the Lords people may be folidly informed in the knowledge, and ejlablijhed in the faith of true Religion, by the mofi near and immediate "way of draining their light from the fountain of the Lords owne word : for this were a mean (as I humbly conceive) to cut off many medleffe difputes wherewith the world is filled ^ a mean to refute many errours, which the ignorance of Scripture and of the power of God hath bred and fojlered in the Chriflian Church -. a mean to prevent many mijlak.es wherein well-meaning %eale doth oft-times fall± for lack, of a briefc manuduflion into the true fenfe and intent of places mijlaken. And I am not altogether out of hope, that the Lord fhall hearken to my defire, and fet fome of his fervants on work., ere it be long, ' to entertaine this motion, and to take a pare alfo in the task- Mean time, 1 pray let my aime and endeavour be acceptable unto thee i

and

To the Reader.

and do not take exception that fo much is left un.faid upon fo pregnant paffages of Scripture as I go through briefly y and> that fo much good matter is hinted at y and paft by fo quickly , and fome times fo abruptly y nor that the deductions offundry doBrines from the ground y poin* ted at in the text, are oft-times not fo convincingly cleared as you would ^ But take this confederation along with thee y That any longer in fifing either in explication of the grounds of the T)o~ Brines pointed at in the text y or in amplification of the DoBrines deduced from the grounds y would have marred much the intended brevity of the mouldy wherewith both the learned y and fuch as have leffe leifure to read longer difcour-fes y pofsibly will be "well pleafed y mainly for this caufe that .they are not much taken off their fiudies y or from their other neceffary imployments y by this manner of writing : And wherewith alfo charitable

cenfu-

To the Reader.

cenfurers , will be content happily when they perceive that in this plaineffe and brevity , every Reader fhall quickly meet with good matter of meditation at leafl y whereby the fmalleft graines of found truth } feen by this means among Readers , may by Gods blefsing get root , waterings and increafe in a good and honeft heart : which blefsing that it may be very large y fhall be the hearty prayer

Thy Servant in the work of the Golpel,

David Dickson.

A BRIEF

EXPOSITION

Of the firft Fifty.

T S ALMES,

Lbeit the Book of the Pjalms be not cofnpofed after the manner of Humane Writings^ in fome fuch Method of Parts, <is Htfiory or Art couldpofsibly prefcribe^ yet it is fo digeftedin Divine Providence, as the Order it hath, is far better then humane Artifice could have given unto it: For the fcope of this Book being not only to teach us the Grounds of Divinity, for our Information, but alfo to; direct w how to apply faving Doctrines practically to our felfe, and to make ufe thereof for Reformation of our Affections\ and Actions, and to help us by the Example of the Practice and JSxercife of Gods dear children, to go after their footfieps^ being led by this

B Dire-

(?)

Directory all along, as by the hand unto the fruition of Felicity, in higher and higher Degrees thereof, till we be perfectly pojfejfed of it in Heaven. The Pfalmes in relation to this fcopeare foplaced, as the frjl Pfahne having divided all men in two Ranks, in order to the way offeeking Felicity, doth give direction to as to chafe, not the counfel of the Wicked, but the Word ofGodfdrthe Rule whereby to walk unto true Blejfedne[fe: And the fecond Pfalm giveth us God in Chrijl for a Captain and Leader to m, who is able to maintain his Church, and all thofe who jhall follow this Rule, againfi all the Oppofition which can be made againfi them by the Power and Multitude of the Wicked y who will not be bound by the bonds and cords (a* they e-jleem) of this Rule of the Lords Law: And the rejl of the Pfilms do hold forth the Examples of Chrifi and his Followers, yoaked in Conflict with their Perfecuters for Righteoufnefs fake • in all Afjaults making ufe of their Covenant with God 7 and prevailing by his Power which up-holdetb, directeth y comforteththemin all their Troubles, and giveth Viffory and Delivery unto them out of them all: to the intent that every onewhofhallchufetobe truly bleffed in the way preferibed of God {who only can give and maintain Felicity) may refolve and prepare them-

felves

ft)

felves forfuch a life as the Saints have had in all Generations before them 5 that is y a life mixed with Crojfes andftveet Comforts 5 a life tvherein they fhall be pit to make ufe of their faith in God by Prayers 5 andJhall not want for their anfvoer y in dm time, matter of Zpoy and Praifesto God$ a life compofed of Variety of Godly Exercifes^ and alternating vicifsitudes of Conditions,as the bulk ofthisBook reprefenteth -but clofmg as this bundle of P\ alms clofeth y with fix times pure Praifes, whereunto now and then the Lord frameth the heart of the Believer^ with Zfoy unfpeakable and full of Glory : That endlejfe and uninterrupted Thanksgiving and Praip being referved to the Generall Ajfem-bly andfull meeting of Chrift, and all his Redeemed ones ^ at the great day ofonr Lords fecond coming.

B 2 PSAL,

..*-

A

U)

PSALM I,

^His Pfalm teacheth, that no tyigodly man is blefFed, but the godly man onely,ffr.i,2. Which is proved by three reafons: The firft,becaufe God doth bleffe the godly even in this life with grace to bring forth good works profitable to themfelves and others, in every ftate of life, ver. 3.* But all that the wicked do for making themfelves happy, fliall be blafted, and found to be meer vanity, ver, 4. Another reafon is, becaufe after this life the wicked (h #'1 be fe-cluded from the prefence of God, and focietie of the godly at the day of judgment, v. 5. The third reafon, confirming both the former, is, becaufe God approveth the way of the godly, and will make the end of the way of the ungodly deftrudion,wr.6.

Ver. I.T) Le(fed is the man that walketh not in J3 the counfel of the ungodly , nor fland-ah in the way of [inner $ y nor Jitteth in the feat of the fccrnful.

2. But his delight is in the law of the Lord^ and in his law doth he meditate both day and night.

PRom the pronouncing of the godly man to be the bleffed man^and Got the ungodly; Lmn i .Though fin and mifcry

abound

abound among men, yet bleffednefl'e may be attained 5 for God here pronounceth iome to be blejfed. 2, In relation to the fceking of bleffednefl'e, all men, within and without the vi-fiblc Church, arc divided in godly men, that feck to be bleffed in Gods way J and ungodly men, who feeke bleffedneffe, buc not in Gods way • for To are they here all ranked. $. To determine the Queftion, who is the bleffed man, is competent to Gad one!y,in whofe hand alone ic is to make a man bleffed > for hcrehetakethituponhim,to pronounce the godly man to kklb* blejfed man. 4. The ungodly do think themfelves very wllefh following the counfell of their own heart, and of others like themfelves ,that they may be bltfledj But this is not the way of the bleffed man, He walketb not in the counfel of the ungodly. ?, The ungodly do obftinately continue inthecourfe of finning, but the bleffed man, if he be overtaken in a fin, doth not defend his fin, nor perfift ink : He ft and etb not in the my of [inners. 6. The ungodly may come to that height at length, as to mcckgodlineffejas meer folly, and to fcorn ad* monitions and reproofs: But the bleffed man doth never bar-den his heart fo, as to mock piety mothers, or inftrudion offered to himfelfe, He fittctb not in the feat of the fcornfull.

7. The bleffed man maketh the word of God in holy Scripture to be his Counfeller concerning the remedy of fin and mifery, and to be the rule to walk by, till his bleffedneffe be perfected for the Scripture to bim,foi- the obedience of faiih,is a Law>and that fenced with fupreme authority : It is the Law of the Lord.

8. In thatmeafure that a man is godly and.bleffed, he maketh the word of God, which holdeth forth the way'of reconciliation with God through the MefFiab, Chrift, the way of growing in communion with Gcd through him, the matter of his chiefe delight, and contentments His delight is in the Law of the Lord. 9. In that mcafure that a man delighteth in the Law of the Lord, he verfeth himfelfe therein upon all occafions. In hU Law doth he meditate day and night.

Ver.3. Andhe fhall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water % that bringeth forth his fruit in his feafsn : his leafe alfo fhall not wither, and whatfo-ever he doth Jballprofper,

B 3 \Qt.f

Ver.4. The ungodly are not fo : bat are likf th

chaff which the winddriveth arvaj.

This is the firft reafon proving the Godly man to bee the only Bleffed nun, and not the ungodly ; Hence learn, i.In thatmeafure a man ftudicth holy Communion with God, by delighting and meditating in his word, be flull be fixed and f urniflied with the influence of Grace from Chrift, for the entertaining of Spiritual Life in him * He Jhall be li\t a tree flamed by the rivers of water. 2. The man that mi-keth the word of God his delight* fhall be made fruitfull in e-very good work, as opportunity is offered to him J He Jhall he Ufa the tree that bringeth forth bis fruit in bisfeafon. 3. This man (hall be inabled to bear out a holy profeffion of his faith in 3 and obedience to God 3 in adverfity,as well as in profperity; Hi* leafe alfo Jhall not wither. 4. Whatsoever Duty or Service to God this man goech about, (hall not want the affiftance of God* nor fuceds* nor acceptance at bis bands * JVbatfoever be doth Jhall prefper. 5. The ungodly man (whatfoever he may feem to be before the world) yet he is deftitute of all Spirituall Life, and alien from the fellowship of Gods grace* unfit for every good work, ready, when tempted hard, to quit his counterfeit profeffion of Religion, and is curfed in all that he doth 5 for what the bleffed Godly man is here faid to be, the wicked is the conrrary j The ungodly are not fo. $. Wnatfoevsr appearance of godlineffe, or temporal profperity, or hope of happinefs the ungodly man feemeth to have, it (hill be found but counterfeit, and (hall ftand him in no ftcad inhisgrcateft need : Tbc ungodly are life the chaff which the wind bldweth away.

Ver.5. Therefore the ungodly Jhall not flandin the judgement^ nor [inner$ in the congregation of the righteous.

The fecond reafon proving the Godly man to be the B/e/-fedmavy and not the ungodly, is a conference of the firft : Wbence learn, 1. Not only (hall all that the ungodly man fowech to his fiefhly Felicity, prove chaff , but alfo for his pains hefhailanfwer to God in the day of Judgement, and l-herc be condemned ; for it is faid, Therefore the ungodly fhall

not

dctftandintbe judgment. 2. Howfoever the Godly cannot enjoy one anothers fetlowmip in this life, for many rofons ; yec at laft :hey mall meet in a generall Affcmbiy of all Saints, in the full fellowship of God, for there is a day of Judgement to be, wherein they fhall ftand, and not be caften or condemned, but fliall be fully abfolved, and remain in the ftand-ing Congregation oftbe 7{igbteous. 3.Albeit now the ungodly and Godly do live together,mixcd in one Kingdcm, City, Incorporation, vifible Church, Family, and B:d, poffibiy, yec there fliall be a perfect feparation at laft, or the one from the other, for finners (or fervanrs offing Jlull not (t and in the Congregation of the Rigbuoia.

Verf.6. For the Lord kjtoweth the way of the Righteous : buttheway of the ungodly fhall peri/h.

The third reafonconfirmeth the former two: Whence learn x. Albeit there be no man that Itveth and ■finnccb not, yet the godly man, being juftified by faith, and carefull to bring forth the fruits of faith, is not a (inner in Gods efteem > for he is here called 7{igbteous. 2. However there be many imperfections and failings of the Godly mans aliens, yet the courfc he kecpetb and way which he endeavoiu'etb to walk in, is holy and acceptable to God 5 For the Lordttfiowetbi ox approved the way oftbe 7(jghteous. 2. let the men of this world pleafe themfelves, ana applaud cme another in their Godlefle carriage} yet the end oftheii* courfe mall be everlafting de-ftrudion 5 for tbt way oftbcuvgodiyjhatl ferijb.

P S AL. II.

That this pfalme doth mainly, if not only, concern Chrift, appcarcth firft by this, That it hath not (o much as Davids name in the Infcription, albeit be did write it: and by ^^.4,25,26- where it is appropriate to Chrift. This Pfalm hath two parts; in the former is fet down the ftability of 6 4 Chrifts

Chrifh Kingdome, againft all the enemies ther-of, w.1,2,3. Firft, Becaufe God the Father taketh part with.his Son, againft all hi^Enemies, and will eftablifh Chrifts Kingdome, maugre them all, wr.4,5,6. Secondly, Becaufe in the Covenant of Redemption, the Father hathpro-mifed to the Son enlargement of his Kingdome, and Viftory over all his Enemies, wr.7,8,9. In the later part of the Pfalme the Prophet deliver-eth the ufe of this Doftrine in an Exhortation to great and fmall, to repent of their fins,and to be-leeve in Chrift, ver. io, 11,12.

V^r.i. \j\THj do the Heathen rage, and the V V people imagine a vain thing ?

2 The Kings of the earth fet themfelves, and the Rulers take counfel together, again (i the Lord, and againft his Anointed, faying,

3 Let us breaks their bands aftinder, and caft a-way their cordsfromfts.

HTH E Prophet fliswetb, Tfa.n in vain mall Cbriftsene--* miesoppofe his Kingdome : Whence learn, i. That the angodly world being ftrangers from the life of God, are incenfed in a mad mood againft the Church and Kingdome of Chrift in the world, The Heathen rage, faith be, to wit, againft the Vifibje Government of Chrift in his Vifible Church, asappeareth vcr.z,-$. z. Their Opposition is altogether unjuflo without caufe, and reafonlefs; for being af-kcd,they cannot render a reafon Why ? 3. Though Chiift's Bnemies promife to themfelves fuccef* in their oppofition to Chrift, and that they dull furely-overturne his Kingdome, yet (hall their imaginations prove folly y they (hail not pre-yai\ for they Imagine a vain thing, which is impoflible to. be eff ftuace. 4. The chief Inftrument that Satr.n ftirreth up a-gainit Chrift, to be Heads andXeadtrs to Heathen and god-

letfe

lcfle people in oppofing and pfrfecuting Cbrifts Kingdom^ and Church, are the Magiftrates, Rulers, and States-men, that he may colour his malice wich the fliadow. of Authority and Law $ for the K^g s of the earth and 7{ulers fetthemfelves, to wit, in oppofidon to him. 5. In this attempt the great ones among men agree more eafily together, then in any thing clfc > tbcy fix their refolutions, communicate their counfels and conjoin their power 5 The lyings of the earth jet themfelves 9 and the Rulers t^ecounfel together. 6. Howfoever the Per-fccutcrs of the Church'conccive themfelvcs not to oppofe God, but men only, when they trouble his people and fervants for Righteoufncffe, yet becaufe the Quarrel is the Lords, therefore their oppofition is declared here to be againft the Lord* and bis Annotated, or his Chrift y who is diftinguifhed here from the Lord, in regard of his Incarnation, Mediation and Offices, being otherwise, in refped of his God-head, one in Eflence with the Father and the Holy Spirit. 7. Though the Law and Ordinances of God be moft Holvjirioft Equitable, moft Harmlefle, yea, a!fo moft profitable 5 yet the Wicked e-fteemofthem, as they call them here, Bands and Cords, becaufe they curb and crofle their carnal Wifdome and Licenti-oufneffe of life. 8. It is not enough to the wicked to difobey and reject the Law and Ordinances of Chrift, for their own part, but they will alfo have them abqiifhed, that God in Chrift fliould not have a Church at all, at leaft in their bounds or where they have power s Let us hrea\ their bands afunder and faft away their cords from us.

Ver. 4. Hee that fitteth in the Heavens /ball laugh : the L 0 RD /ball have them in derifi-on.

5. Then Jhallhefpea^ unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his fore difp leaf are.

6 Tet have Ifet my King upon my holy hill of Sion.

The firftreafon of the liability of Cbrifts Kingdome is 9 becaufe God fcorne^h mens eppofing thereof, and will vex bis enemies, and fettle Chrifts Kingdome in his vifible Church, in the fight of bis enemies; Hence learn, i-Though

tbe

tbe Church Wfible s and the Ordinances of Cbrift beimong the feet of Potentates, and Chrifts fubje&s want wifdom and power on earth, to defend themfelves, yet their main-tainer is omnipotent God, judge over all, even he that fittetb in Heaven. 2. All the devices and confpiracies of men a-gainft Chrifts Kingdom,(how terrible foever to Gods people,) arc bur ridiculous, and foalifti attempts in Gods fight j The J{ing that fittetb in Heaven jbatl Uugb at them att> and expofe tbem to mockery before men: Hcjhall have them in derifion 0 3. After the Lord hath mademanifeft the intent of his enemies* and brought their foolifti and madd purpofes to light, be will not fail to manifeft his mind, and juft indignation againft them $ for then Jhali he fpea\ to them in his Wrath. 4* The Lord bath his appointed time wherein he will arife, and vex the enemies of bis Church, partly by difappointing them of their hopes, and partly by infli&iqg fore plagues upon them 5 Then fhall he vex them in his fore difpleafurc. f. When the Lord arifeth to judge the enemies of his Church, then doth he give a furcher manifeftation of his purpofe to eftablilh his Church, and the vifibleKingdome of Chrift in the World , maugre all oppofition : fet have I fet my^ing upon my holy bill of Zion. 6. Though all Kings and Kingdom? belong unto the Lord, yet he owneth tbe Church ( re-prefented by the hill of Zion ) and he owneth his Son Chrift the King thereof, in a fpecial manner, as his peculiar property, wherein he glorieth more then in all his works 5 there* fore faith he, J have fet my l&ng upon my holy Hill 5 this is tbe Speech of God tbe Father, fpeakmg by his Spirit in the Prophet concerning Chrift his £on.

V.7. / will declare the Decree: the Lord hath [aid unto me , Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.

■ 8. Ask^of me^ and 1 Jhall give thee the Heathen for thine inheritance^ and the utter mo ft parts of the earth for thy potfejfion.

The fecond reafbn of the ft ability of Chrifts Kingdomo is, the decreed agreement between God tbe Father and the Soibin the Covenant of Redemption $ fomc Articles whereof

of Chrift by bis Prophet doth here reveal» For this is the fpeech of Chrift the Son of God 5 to be incarnate, fpeaking by his fpirit,concerningthe liability of the Church, & his King-dome over it .-Whence we learne. i The faith of the Saints, in time of the perfecution of the Churchy may, and mould reft perfwad^d of the ftability of the Church,and of Chrifts King-dome in it, becauie it is grounded upon the myfterious and unchangeable decree of God* which here is brought to light, I will declare the decree, faith Chrift , not as yet incarnate. t It is Chrifts office as Prophet, to revcale the fecret coun-» fell of thcTrinity,being,the fubftantiali word of the Father I and who before the world was created , was with God, and was God, $obn 1.1,2. 1 will declare tbe decree, faith the Son of God. 3 The Son of God as he is a pcrfon, concurring in the decree of eftablifhing of the Church > and Kingdomc of God in it, againftall oppofition; So is he party contrafter in tbe Covenant of Redemption: Apd as he is the promifer, and undercakerto pay the price of the Redemption of his people 5 fo alfo is he tbe receiver of promifes, made in fa-vour or bis Church and Kingdome : It is be to whom the Father dtre&eth bis promife concerning bis Churchy FirftSt immeiiatly^or the Son in declaring tbe decree,faitb,rfo Lord faidtome* 4 It is one of the Articles of tbe Covenant of Re" demption,That the promifed feed of tbe woman, the Redeemer of his people^ the promifed feed of Abraham , tbeM^fliah and Saviour of the Eleftyhe promifed fon of David, and true King of Ifrael, afer his incarnation^ mail not bedifowned of the Father 5 But in and after his deepeft humiliation and fufferings, as he (hall be, and remaine really the very Son of God 5 fo (hall he really at tbe fet d3y, be ncknowledged by the. Father, to be the onely begotten Son of God, which day , is the day of Refurrection of Jefus Chrift from the dead, as the Apoftle, Rom, 1. 4. doth teach us, faying 3 He was declared to be tbe Son of God wit b power, by tbe refurreftion from tbedcad$ For the Refure&ionof Jefus Chrift was a reall fpeech, faying to Chrift in tbe audience of all the world, in efHA as much as, I declare tbee this day to be my Son , my only begotten Son,one infubflance with me eternally. ? Tbe declaration of the decree of manifefting of Chrift to be the Son of God, is a fufficient demonftration of the impregnable ftability of tbe

Church ,

Church , maugre-all the oppofition of all the power in the world jfor to this very end is the decree of revealing Chrift to be the Son of God:, here declared. Thou art my Son whom Ibave begotten, is proof abundant, for this is the Rock whereupon Ghrift undertaketh to build his Church, agatnft which the gates ofhell (hail not prevaile, Mat. 16.16. 18. andwfeo isbe that overcometh tbc world, hhh John, favc be that falie-vetb that Cbrift is the Son of God, 1 $obn ?.?. 6 Another article of the Covenant of Redemption here declared is, That after Chrifts Refurrc&ion, and declaration of his formerly over-clouded God-head, he fhould continue in the office of bismediationjand interceffionj and by vertuoof his payed ranfome of Redemption, call for the enlargement of his pur-chafed Kingdome among the Gentiles 5 for this is the Fathers compad: with the Son, faying, As\of me, and I will give thee the Heathen. 7 The oppofition which the world inallmaketo the Kingdome of Chrift, (hall not hinder the enlargement and fpreading thereof $ but by the imerceffion of Jefus Chrift, the Heathen Jhal be bis inheritance, and tbcut-termoft parts of the earth bis poffeffion; not his by a (hort tack* or leafe for fome few years, but a lafting inheritance, and con-ftant poffejfion. 8 The neceffity of prayer is pointed out to all the Lords people by this, that the poffeflion of the purchafe which our Lord hath made by his precious blood, is to'be drawne forth by a fort of Prayer and Interccfflon fuitable to Ouifts perfon 5 As\ofme, faith the Father, and lwilgivethee the Heathen,&c.

9. 'thou fhalt break? them with a rod of Iron, thou fhalt dafh them in pieces like a Potters Vef-

id.

A third article of the covenant of Redemption, is, a pro-mife made to Cbrift , of full vi&ory over all his and his Churches enemies, ver. 9. Wherein obferve, 1 That Chrift foall not want enemies,who will not onely for their own parts, refufe falvation offered by him, and (iibjcftion to be given to him; but alfo will oppofe him, and make head againft him* cill hedeftroy them ', for thefe Kings and Rulers fpoken of ver. 2,5. will not ceafe, till he hrea\ \btm, and dafiy them in pie* ccs$ and thefe are here understood* as repeated from v. 1,2^.

1 Though

* Though Cbrifts Church be weake and unable to help it fclfe againft perfecution 3 yet Chrift will own the quarrell* and fight againft all the enemies thereof himfelfe^ whereunto he is fufficiently f urnifhed 3 for bejhall break, tbem in pieces with an Iron rod. 3 Though the enemies be numerous and ftrong, being compared with the godly, whom they doe perfecute, ye* compared with Chrift or looked upon by him^ tbeyarebuc weake^brittle and naughty th'wgs.Tbou Jbalt dajl) tbeminpieces asapottersvcjfd.

Vcrf. 10. Be wife now therefore , O yee Kings i be inftr titled, jee fudges of the earth.

11 Serve the Lord with fear f and rejoyce with trembling.

11 Kiffe the Son left he be angry, and jee ferijb from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a lit* tie : bleffed are all they that fut their trufi in him.

This is the later patt of the Plalme, wherein the ufes of the former Do&rine are fet down. Whence learn 5 1 The more clear advertifement is given concerning the fin and danger of oppofing of Chrifts Kingdome 5 caute', wcrke or people 5 the more wary mould all men be^and namely Potentates 5 as they love their places or foules, to efchue this evill j for he hath faid, Be wife now tberefore>0 yee Kings tnd fudges of the Earth. % Though it may leem wifedom to make and execute lawes in prejudice of Cbrifts and bis caufe , rather th^n venc their malice without a pretence 5 yet ic is more wifdom to ceafe from oppoficton, and take laws from (Thrift* for fo the Lord doth reckon, faying. Be wife now therefore, Mid inftruBed.$* If any be guilty of this fin, and not as yet fmittcn for ir, the goodnes of God offcreth to him mercy in time^ and fteppetb in timoufly to take off the (nares of flatterers, who ufeto harden men, and efpecially great men/in this finne : Be wife now faith the Lord, Oyee Icings. 4 It is no difparagemenc to the greateft Monarchs ("but a mean for them to efchue the wrath of God) to be fubjed to Chrift Jefus, toftandinavf of him, to fubmit themfelves to him, and prcmove his fer-vice to their power $ for the command to all, and to them in fpeciall, is ; Serve thi Lord in fear. 5. As there is matter of

feartoChrifts Subjefts, left they provoke feim* fo tberefs matter of rejoicing for them to be under his Government, and tbefe two affe&ions may well confittin bis fcrvice : Re-joyce in trembling : yea there is no right rejoicing in any thing without fome mixture of fear to offend him. 6. Becaufe Cbrift Jefus the Son of God, is a lovely King, bringing Righteoufneffeand Eternal life to all his true fubjects, hee (hould be fubmitted unto, and imbraced ("when he offe-reth graced very heartily; To this end, Hjjfe the Son, or do him homage, is added 5 for to kifle is a figne of religious adoration, Hof* 13.1. and a fign^ of homage and beany fubjeftion, 1 Sam. 10. 1. 7 Where grace offered by Chtift Jefus is refufed,therefufin2; of mercy mail procure morcan-ger,then all former fins,- l^ijfe the Son left be be Angry. 8. When Cbrift taketh a refufallof a man , to whom grace k offered, wrath will follow, to the cutting offofthe refufcr from all means iof bappineffe, both temporal!, which he hunceth afters and eternall, which is offered in Chrift unto t him, and to the bringing upon him utter perditions for iris falds Kjffethe Son left he be angry, andyee perifh from the way. 9 Untpeake-able muft the wrath of God be, when it is kindled fully, [ince perdition may come upon the kindling of it but a title. 10. Remiffion of fin, delivery from Wrath, communion with God, and life cverlafting, are the fruits of imbracing of Chrift, of doling in Covenant with Chrift, and refting on Cbrift s For bleffed are all they that put their truft in him.

PSAL. III.

A Pfalm of David when he fled from tAbfolom his (on.

This Pfalcn holdeth forth a notable proof & benefit of faith in "Davids experience;who when his own fon Abfolom rebelled againft him,and forced him to flee for fear of his life, did firft lay before the Lord his pitiful condition, w. i^ Secondly

iy, He ferled his faith on God, prayed, and obtained a comfortable anfwer, was quiet and refreshed in foul and body, and made confident a-gainft Jill fears pgflible, ^^.3,4,5,6. Thirdly, He continueth in prayer, confirming his faith from former experience, ver. 7. And laftly, he giveth forth the ufe of his experience to the Churches edification in a general dodrine. ver.2*

pRomthe Infcription> learn^How great calamity may befall the beft of Gods children, and that from thofe perfons, from whom they could leaft expe& to be troubled .• for Vdvid was deferted of his own fubjeds, and chafed from his Palace and royall State by bis own £on,Abfolom. 2. Although the Lord do not follow the fins of his children with vindictive jufticc, yet by the (harp rods of fatherly corre&ion, hee can make bis own children, and all the beholders of their fcanda-lousfins fee how bitter a thing it is to provoke him to wrath, asoncc Daviddid* 3. Even when fin hath drawn on judgement, God muft be dealt with for relief, no ieiTe then if it had been fent for triall onety 5 as David doth in the cafe ot" the correcting and purging of the pollution of ki$ family, by the infurrection of his Ton againft him,

Ver.l.T Ord, how are they hereafed that trouble jLjme ? many are they that rife up againft me. 2. Many there be which fay of my foul. There is no help for him in God.

pRom his laying before God bis pitifull condition: Leara '

1. The man who believeth in God, bath an advantage z-bove whatfoever any ungodly man can have in the time of trouble: he bath the Lord to go unto for comfort and relief, of whofe kindneffe he may make u(e as David did here, laying out his trouble before him, and faying? Lord, bow are they increafed that trouble me ? &c. 2. The world counteth a. mans eafe defperat^ when they fee no worldly help for biqa. £Mavy

fa*

fay, There is no help for bim in God. 3. Mercilefle beholders of the corrections of Gods children for cheir (ins, think and fay alfo oft times * that God is following them with vindi&ive juftice, and is deftroying them boch in regard of their fouls and bodies, &c. without mind of mercy to them. Many fay efmyfoul>TbereUno help for bim in God. 4. Tentation to defpair of relief, doth accompany unexpected and fad troubles 5 and this is more grievous then the trouble it ielf $ Trier-fore David prefenteth this tentation before God in the laft room, astheheavieftpartof his exeicife 3 with a note of uplifting the mind and voice* Sehb.

Verf.3. But thou, O Lord.ut a Jhield for me ? my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.

In the fecond place he (lieweth how he made ufe of faith in prayer J and what fruit he received thereby: whencekarne, ft; The nature of true faith is to draw the more nearetoGod the more it be driven from him, Many fxy > no help in God; but thouartmy jbield. i.God is a counter-comrort in aUcalamity, ourfhield in danger, our glory in mime, the lifter tip of our fc&ziindeje&ion. $. Asthere is relief in God ouccfalle-tilt* fo faith fecthin God fufficient belpe from all evill, and in fpeciall that the {word of the enemie cannot be fo neare, but be can interpofe himfelfe, as a Jhield to ward off the blow : But thou O Lord art a 1 Jhield round about mc> &c. yea faith feeth in God matter of rejoycing and gloriation in the midft of all the (hamc and difgrace which men can caft upon the believer, and can'make a man fay to God, Thou art my glory. In a word, faith feeth goodnefs and power in God to raife the Beleever out of the loweft condition wherein he can be ; Thou art the lifter up of my bead.

** Ver,4. / cryed unto the Lord with my voya, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.

5. I laid me down and fief t $ / awaked^ for the Lordfufiained me.

6. I will not be afraid of ten thoufands of -people that havefet themfelves againfi me round about.

From the cxccrcifc of faifcb, and the fruits of it, inthefe

three

three verfes : Learnfaft> TheconfcienceTjf feeking God by prayer 3 is an eafe to a man, noc onely for the time prefent, while be is in prayer pouring outhisbcartj bin refrefhfull alfo, when \is looked back upon: therefore by way of gra-tulation* faich David here > Icryed totbe Lord. z. Faith in a ftraic ftirreth up affe&ion and earneftnes in prayer, and, maketh the whole man be taken up about it: lcrycdtothe Lord with my voice, faith he. 3. The prayer of Faith mall -.. noc want an anfwer, and the return thereof is worthy to be attended, and marked, when ic is obtained; Icryed, and bebeardtne. 4. The prayer of Faich trufteth God in Chrift, as the propitiatory and mercy feat, and feeketh audience and anfwer onely for Cbrifts caufe, whole facrifice and mediation , and benefits were fhadowed forth in the Tabernacle : And the believer, as he ihould take heed that his prayer go up to God through Chrift , fo ihould he obferve how it is anfwered , and returned alfo through Chrift, reprefented by the Ark in the Tabernacle , pitched on the holy hill of Sion : He beard me alfo out of bis holy Hill. 5. Intbe greateft extremity of danger , a believer may have his mind quieted, and his body refreshed alfo, after that in faith he bath had his recourfe to God, and hath caften his care upon him : llaii me done and Jlept, I awaked, 6. The quietnefs and fet-lednefsof a mans heart by faith in God, is -another fort of work , then the natural refolution of manly courage $ for it is the gracious operation of Gods fpirit upholding a man above nature, and therefore God ought to have all the glory of it: The Lordfuftainedme. 7. When the Lord will anfwer the believer to his comfort,he can not only fatisfie him in the particular which he prayeth for, but alfo furnim him with confidence againft whatfoever evil can be apprehended by him for time to come: 1 mil not be affray d cfmiliom of people, that have fet themfelves againft me roundabout. 8. When faith finds it felfe welcome to God/tis able to give a defiance to all adverfarics ; more or fewer, weaker or ftronger enemies, all arc alike defpifed: I mil not be affray d of thou. fands of people.

Vcrf. 7. Ari[e % O Lord,fave me, O my God, for thou haft [mitten all mine enemies upon the cheek* bone : thou haft broken the teeth of the ungodly.

la the third place he continue^ to pray againft the evil, C which

which might thereafter follow : whence Learn> i. Faith in God is not a bragger , nor confident in the mans own ftrength , or imagination 5 but humbly dependeth on God, and continued) in prayer,fo long as the danger remainctbi as David doth here after delivery received, t. The covenant of grace , wherein the believer is entered with God, furnifheth him with confident prayer, and hope of ialvation : Saveme> 0 my God. 3. When faith is fixed upon Gpd covenanted, then, by-gone experiences do come upaspin-nings in the bigging of a wall, to bolfter it up, and con- . firmeitj For thou haft fmitten dlmine enemies upon the cbeeke lone , thou baft broken the teeth of the ungodly. 4. G od fm ites che pride of perfecuters with a fliamefuil ftroke,and their beaft-ly cruelty, with breaking th#ir power , Thou haft (mitten mine enemies on the cheek bone, thou haft broken the teeth of the ungcdly.

Verf. 8- Salvation beiongeth unto the Lord: thy blejfing is upon thy people. Selah.

From the laft part of thePfalme, wherein be gtveth forth from his own experience a general Doctrine, for the comfort of all the Lords people,Lfc*r» : 1. The u(e of tbe experience of the Godly , ftiould be tbe confirmation of the faith of all others, as well as of their own; as here is feen. 2. Tbe fiuitof the Lords putting his own in ftiaits, isto make them and all men fee, that he hath wates of deliverance, more then they know of 5 and that he will fave his own, when men do count their cafe defperate ; For Salvation beiongeth to the Lord. g. Whatsoever mixture his people do find ofcroiles and comforts, or vkiflkude of danger and delivery , 2dverfity or profperity, ftill the courfe of blefling - of them itandeth, which now and then they are forced to acknowledge co the Lord : Thy blejfing is upon thy People.

p s AL. IV.

To ihe chiefe Mufician on Heginotb. A Pfalm of David.

Another experience of David, as an example of a Chriftian fuffcr^r, onjuftly perfecuted and fcor-

ned

iied for his piety by his profane enemies, fuch as Saul, and his Courtiers were: wherein firft he fetteth down his prayer, ver. i. Then being comforted in God, he infulteth over his enemies, and gloriech in Gods favour, ver. 2, 3. Thirdly he exhorteth his enemies to repentance, and faith in God, ver, 4, 5. Fourthly, He pre* ferreth the blefTedneffe of his eftate above what-foever the worldly man can enjoy, ver. 6,7,8.

pRom the Infcription of this Pfalm,which is the firft* wherein mention is made of chief Mu(icians,or mulicall inftru-ments: Lexrn y 1. Thepraifeof God,and the joy of bis Spirir^ allowed on his people,do furpalTe all expreffion which the voice ofwords can make 5 for this was fignified by the plutalicie, and diverfirie of muficall instruments, (fome of tbem founding by being beaten^ fome of them by being blown,) In-peradded t© the voice of finging in^the paedagogie of Mo(cs y z. Albeit the ceremonially iigurative,and religious ufe of muficall inttruments be gone, with the reft of the Levitic3ll ilia-dowes, (the naturall ufe of them ftiil remaining :) yet the Vocall ringing of Pfalmes in the Church is noc taken away, as the pra&ife and do&rine of Cbrift and his Apoftles makes evident 5 and fo the voice of a Odufician in cfae publick worfhip ilillisufefull. $. The Pfalmes are to be made ufe of with difcretion, as the matter of the Pfalm, and edification of the worlhippers doth require. And in the public^ it is the called Minifter of the Congregation his place, to order this part of the worfhip with thereftjfor this the direction of the Pfalmes, To the chief Muficun, givech ground,

Ver. 1. \"\Ear me when I call* O God of my righ-I L teottfneffe: thou haft enlarged me when I was in diftrejfe, have mercy upon me$ and hear my prayer.

pRom his prayer, Learn, i. Though there bee many and

divers troubles of the jodiy> yec there is but one God to

give comfort and seliefej and one way to draw it from God$

C i

so P 5 A L. IV.

to wit, by prayer in faith, Hear me when 1 call. 2. Albeit the confcience of much fin be oppofed to the prayer of the believer, yet the everlafting rigbteoufneffe of faith, (whereof the Lord is God, author and maintaincr for ever ) doth open the waytothefuppliant, fpccially when he cometh to God in a righteous caufe, Hear me, 0 God of my rigbteoufneffe. 3. Acknowledgement of by-paft mercies in former experience is a good preparation for a new mercy, and a mean to ftrengthen our faith to receive it, Tbou baft enlarged me wbenlwto indi-ftrejfe, have mercy upon me, and bear my payer. 4. "Faith is a good Oratour and a noble Difputer in a ftrait > it can reafon from Gods readineffe to hear, Heare met when I call, OGod. And from the everlafting righteoufneife given to the man, in the juftification of his perfon: 0 God of my rigbteoufneffe: and from God? conftant juftice in defending the righteoufnefle of his lervants caufe, O God of my rigbteoufneffe: and from both prefent diftreflis, and thoie that are by-palt> wherein he hach been : and from by-gone mercies receive3, Tbou baft en-Urged me when I wot in diftreffe ; and from Gods grace, which is able to anfvver all objections from the mans unworthineffe, or ill.defei ving : Have mercy upon me, and bear myprzyer.

Verf. 2. O ye fons ofmen , how long will ye turn my glory into fhame ? how long will je love vanity, and fetk^ after leafing: Selah.

3. But know that the Lord hath fet apart him that is godly for himfelfe: the Lord will hear when 1 call unto him.

In the next place, after comfort received, he triumpheth in Gods good will over all his enemies. Wbenctlcarne, 1.'Though a godly man. when he is both perfecuted for righteoufneffe, and mocked for his piety , may bang his head in his trouble for a little^ till hec go to God with his complaint > yet after that he is comforted, bee will be able to Ipeak a word to his mockers, and hoiily toinfult over them, time about $ as after prayer, Pdz//rf here turncth him to fpeak to the fons of men. 2. Mockers of piety, when pious men are under afflidion, do bewi ay tbemfelves to be ftill in the ftate of nature, and dtfti* tutefor the prefent of the Spirit of regeneration: For David calleththem, in relation t« their finfullcondition, O ye fons of men. 3, Though faith in God, ajid, calling on him in

trouble,

trouble, and innoqcncy of life under perfection, be the high-eft commendation, and glory of a man 5 yet the wicked, (though oft convinced of Gods goodnefle tofuchperfonsj do not ftand to reproach piety, as a matter of fcorn, fo oft as God doth fufFer the godly to fail in calamity, How long will \yetwrnmy glory into fhame ? 4. Meer natural] men cannoc be made wife, neither by the word of God, nor by experience in rheir own, and others perfons, to confider that things of this earth, as temporarie riches, honour, and pleafure, are nothing but vanity, and deceiving lies, which promifefome-ihing, and pay nothing but vexation of fpirit, becaufe of guiltineffe and mifery following upon the abufe of them. How long will ye love vanity, and feefi after leafing ? 5. The moft fatisfa&ory revenge, which the godly can defire of their pei-fecutors and mockers, is, to have them turn converts, to have them recalled from the vanity of their way, and brought to a right undemanding of what concerneth their faivation, wbere-unro the godly are ready to offer themfelves admonifhers of them, and inftrufters, as here the Prophet doth, 0 ye Sons of men, bow long? (?c. But finow,&c. 6. The caufe of the worlds defpifing of piety in the perfons of God's nffliuted children, is the grofle ignorance of the precious priviledges of the Lords fincere fervams : the world cannot think that the godly in the midft of their calamities are Gods peculiar jewels, chofen and called out of the world, for honouring of Gods admitted to fellow/hip with God in this life, and appointed to dwell with him forever. Therefore, \now> faith David, asfpeakingtoignorants, that God bath (ei apart for bimfelf,him that is godly. 7. This is one of the priviledges of the godly, that bow oft foever tbey are put to their prayers, by trouble or tentation, fo oft they get audience, upholding, comfort, and delivery > as their croffes do abound, fo do their confolations-as the Prophet teftifletb,faying,rkL0rd will bear me when I caU upon bim. 8. The experience of one of the Saints concerning the verity of Gods promifes, or the certainty of the written priviledges of the Lords people, is a fufficient proof of the right which all his children have unto, and ground of hope for their partaking in the fame mercies in their need, therefore "David, to prove his generall docVine, fet down in the firft part of the verfe, he faith, The Lvrd will hear me whw I call unto bim*

C 3 Vcr./i

.a.

aa P S A L. IV.

Ver.4. Stand in awe and fin not ; commune with 3 m r own heart upon jour bed,and be fiill. Selah.

5. Offer the facrifices of righteoufnejfe, and put y°ur truft in the Lord.

In the third place, he exhorteth his enemies to repentance, and faith in God 5 wherein as he laid down the coinfe which they mould keep , "to wit, to have their judgment well informed in the principles of Religion, in the former verfe 5 fo here in this verfe he will have their heart and affections reformed ; and in the following verfe bee will have their aUions alfo reformed in relation to the duties of the firft and fecond Table, and their aftionstoflow from their faith in God. Whence learn, Repentance is not reall and found, till the heart be affe&ed with the fenfe of fin by-paft, and fear of finning hereafter, and be brought infubje&ion under the dreadfull Ma jeftie of God : therefore after inftru&ion, zer. 2. $. Hee faith here, Stand in aw and Jin rot. z. The mean prefcribed of God for to make the heart fenfible of its condition, is the ferious and daily examination of the confeience, pofing it to anfwer all interrogatories concerning the mans conformi-tie to Gods law*' and that in (ecret, in the night, without di-fira&ion : for a man had need to have his wits about him, when hee goeth to examine a deceitfull thief: to this pur-pofe faith he, Commune with your hearts onyour beds. 5. The fruit of daily, ferious examination of the confeience, concerning fin committed, is, to make a man bumble, quiet, and fubmiffive to the Lord ; this he infimiateth in foretelling them that thus they Jhall be ftill, or filent , not opening the mouth to excufe their fins, or to mock the godly. As for reformation of their Lives in relation to the Taw of God^ver.$. heteacheth, 1. That the formall difcharge of the external! ceremonies of Religion will nor prove a man to be a true convert, or a fincere penitent $ but the true ("orifice of Chrifts pbedience unto the death, fignified by the external! facrifices, mull be looked unto 5 and the factifice of thankfgiving and welldoing, and the dedication of the whole man to the fer-vice of God, muft teftific the truth of repentance. Therefore in oppofition to the ejxternall ceremonial! facrifice, he commandeth to offer the facrifices ofrigbteoufneffe. 2. When a penitent hath for evidencing the finceritie of his turning to God, brought forth fruit futable to repentance, he muft not lay weight upon his works, but lay all his confidence upon

Gods

Gods free grace, who juftifieth the true convert by faith only : Therefore, after commanding them to offer the facrifices of rightcoufnefle, he direftetbthem, faying, put your truft in the Lord.

Ver. 6. There be Many that fay , Who will fbew us any good? Lord, lift thou tip the light of thy countenance upon us.

7. Thou haft put glad&cfs in my hearty more then in the time that their come and their wine increa-

fed.

8. I will both lay me down in peace, and Jleep : for thou, Lord, only make ft me dwell injafttj.

In the laft place he commendeth his own bleffed cfb.te, and to enforce the former exhortation, he con^.pnreth the happi-nefs which the worldling doth feeke after , with the IpTrftuall joy which is granted to the godly, and preferred* the lail far before the other. Hence Leam. i.Thc blind worldlings, ignorant of what is truly good* are taken with infaciable wishing, and ieeking for fom? earthly thing, whereby they conceive they may be happy. Of thofe fpcakeih be, laying, There be many.that fay, who will fherv.us any good* 2. The rruely god-lyjoyne one with another, in Peking their felicity in Gjds favour, and in the fenfe of his reconciliation, and not in fecking the worldly mans choice: for in the oppofuion to the worldlings wifhes, David with the reft of the godly, faith, Lordylift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us, j. The comfort of Gods Spirit, and fenfe of a mans reconciliation with God in Chrift, is greater then any worldly joy can be, and is able to fuppiy the want ofrkhes, honors, and plea-fures worldly, and to feafon, yea and fwallow up the fenfe of poverty, difgrace,and whatfocver other evill. This David teftifietb by his own experience, faying, Thou baft putgladnefs in my heartyncre then in the time that their come and wine incrca-fed. 4. Faith in God, asitbringeth joy, fo alfo peace un-fpeakable, and paffing underftanding, in the midft of trouble: This Davids experience teachcth alfo. I will bath lay me down in peace and jlccp, notwithstanding of all the oppolitions the tons of men made untohim. 5. WhetherGod do give means of fafety, or none at all which can be feen, preservation and fafetie is his gift, and the making a man obferve the

C 4 benefit

benefit of prefervation is another gift alfo: wherefore, VaviH giveththe glory of both unto God 3 Thow onlj mA^cft me dmU in fafetj.

PSAL. y.

To the chief Mufichn upon Nebiloth< tA Pfalm of JXavU. David as a typeofChrift, and one of the number of his afflided followers, fee forth in his affii&i-on, as an example of exercife to others, in after ages, doth pray for himfelf and againfl: his E-nemies, ufing fundry arguments to ftrengthen himfelf in his hope to be heard : Firfl^from the grace of God beftowed on himfelf to ufe the means, ver. 1,2,3. Secondly, From the juftice of God againft his wicked enemies, ver. 4,5,6. Thirdly j From his own ftedfaft purpofe and defire to continue in Gods fervicc, and to walk fo uprightly, as the enemie fhall not have advantage of him by his mifcarriage, ver. 7. 8. Fourthly, From the ripeneffe of fin in his ad-verfaries, which did prepare them for fudden deftruftion, ver.g.io. Fifthly, From the certain hope of joy, and defence, and fpirituall bleffing to be beftowed on himfelf and all believers , out of the free love and and favour of God toward them, ver. 11,12.

In his ftrengtbeningof his hope to be heard,from the grace of God beftowed on him, toute the means for obtaining a good anfwer, Ltarn y 1. When the Lord givetb us a mouth toipcaktobim, there is ground of hope he will grant aneare

to

to us; for fo rcafonech David, Give ear to my words, 0 Lord. 1. In time of trpuble,the heart hath more to fay to God,tben words can utter J and what# man cannot exprefs, the Lord wil take knowledg of it, no fefs then of his words $ This the prophet faopeth for, faying, Confider my meditation. 3. When extreamity of danger forceth a way to the Lord, the believers ncceffity hatha voice, towdcr then his expreffed words, and whereunto the Lord will give care 5 hearken to the votes of my cry. 4. It is a point of fpirituall wifedomefor thehelpc of our faith, to take hold ofthofe relations we have.to God, whereby we may exped what we pray for, as David doth here, when he would have protection and delivery,faying, My king* &myCjod. $. Faith kneweth no other to pray unto for helpe, fave God alone,nor any other way to be helped, favc by perfe-verance in prayer ;For unto thee will 1 pr<jy,faich he. 6.Refol ved Importunity in prayer muft be joyned with taking hold of the firft and fitteft opportunity offered for prayer : My voitf jball thou heare in the morning, 0 Lord/aitb he. 7. Calling on God in trouble, with dependence on him, doth give hope of audience, and deliverie by him, by way of a convincing Syllogifme, whereof the promife of deliverie made tofuch as call on the name of the Lord in the day of trouble, is the firft propofition 5 the conference of refolved calling on him maketh the affumption or fecond propofition 5 and faith concluded the expe&ation of deliverance: for the prophets rea-foning is this in efFecl:, wbofoever they be, that pray to the Lord in their trouble, thou wile heare them : But I doe pray tothee,anddo refolve to continue praying:: Therefore thou O Lord wilt beare me,

Ver. 4. For thou art, not a God that haft pleafure in wickednefs : neither /hall evill dwell with thee.

5. The foolifh Jball not Jfahd in thy fight : thou hatefl all workers of iniquity.

6. Thou Jbalt dejlroy them that fpeak^ leafing : the Lord'willabhorre the blood} and deceitful I man.

Tn the fecond place, he reafoneth from the jufttce of God againft his enemies: Whence learn, 1. The worft qualities intheadverfaries of the s;odly, doth furnifh good matter cf Faith a^d Hope to the belecver to-be rid of them : for this ufc doth Tfivid make of the wickedneiTe of his enemies in tbefe

liirct

three verfe*. i. Such as take pieafure in fin, God cannot take pieafure in them .• Thou art mt a God , faith he , *&<** bajt pieafure in wicfadnejfc : And fuchaswill not part with* fin, God fhall feparate them from his companie 5 for it is faid, NeitherJhallevill dwell with thee. $. Let wicked men feem never fo wife Polititians among men, yet (hall they be found mad fools before God 5 felling heaven for trifles ot the earth, holding war with the Almighty, and running upon their own deftrudion in their felf-plea(ing dreams, to the lofle of their life and ftare, temporall andeternall. For the foolijh (faith he) Jball notftattd in thy fight. 4. Such as make intquitte their work, fhall have the effeds of Gods hatred foe their wages : for Thou hateft all the workers of iniquity. 5. The enemies of Gods people, whiles by flanders and lies they murther the innocent, do draw upon themfelves fwift damnation from God .• Thoujhalt deftroy them thatfpeak leafing, faith he. 6. Falmood and cruel tiewhich are the charaders of the foes of the godly, are abomination to the Lord, which he cannot endure ; Thou wilt abhor the bloudk and deceitfull man.

Verf. 7. "But as for. me , I will come into thy houfe ,, in the multitude of thy mercy : and in thy feare will I worjhip toward thy holy Temple.

8. Lead me , O Lord, in thy righteoufnefs , be-eaufe of rhine enemies\ make thy way (Iraight before my face.

In the third place, he refolveth that what ever the enemy fhall do,he will walk as God bath commanded him;with refo-lution toferve God in fincerky* as alfoa profeflion of hope, to enjoy the fociety of his Saints in Gods publick Worfhip : and to this end he praycth he may be kept ftraight in his walking , that the enemy might have nothing wherewith to reproach him. Hence Learn , 1. Though the Godly want not the confeienceof their own fins, when they fpeak of the fins of their enemies, yet there is a difference betweem them and the wicked, in refped the Godly are humbled in the fenfe of their fins, are brought to the acknowledgment of their need of mercy, and do flee to God for raving mercy, nnd to the multitudes of mercies , as they fee the multitude of their fins : And therefore faith he of himfelf, in oppofition to the wicked > But as for mc I will come into thy houfe 7 in the multitude

tit die of tby mercies. 2. The faith which the Godly have in the mercies of God , doth encourage them to follow the fer-vice of God > and in fome cafes doth give them hope to be loofed from the reilraints > which do hinder them from enjoying the publick Ordinances; I will come into tby boufc , in the multitude oftby mercies.. $. The right temper of the hearc of a true Worftiipper, is fear before God : In thy fear will iworjhip. 4. Under the fenfe of finfulncfs and unwarthi-nefs, faith muft be fupported by looking toward Jefus Chrift, prefigured by the Tabernacle and Temple: In tby fear, faith he , I will wcrjbip toward tby holy Temple. 5. When the Godly are under trouble from their enemies, and under tryal by other forts of excrcife, they are no lefs feared for their mif-carriage and offending the Lord 3 then they are feared for wbac their enemies can do againft themj Therefore, Lead me y O Lvrdjintbyrigbteoufnefsy faith be. 6. So much the more as the Godly are fesitible of their own blindnefs* and weakness, and readinefs to go out the right way ', fo much the more do they call for , and depend upon Gods dire&ing of then). Lead me, faith be; As one that fceth not, or as one who is not able to hold a right courfe ^without a guide. 7. If the Godly man take a finfull courfe to be relieved from his trouble, the enemy is hardned in his wicked courfe , by this means to blafpheme the profeffion of Piety, as me ere hypo-, crifie, and foGcd is provoked to let the enemy prevail, be-caufcthemifcarriageoftbe Godly bath made way to him 5 for avoiding of which inconvenience,he praycth : Lead me, in tbyiigbteoufnefs, bee aafc of my enemies. 8. The deceicfulncfs of Gn , the ignorance of what is expedient and lawfull in a particular cafe^themift of private aff^&ions, and the example or ill counfel of rhe World,, are ready to make a man rniihke the right way, except the Lod make clear what is his duty ; Therefore faith he, Ma^e tby way fir tight before my face.

Verf. 9. For there is no fahhfulnefs in their month , their inward part is very tyickednefs : their throat is an opev/epulchre , they flatter with their tongue.

10. Defiroy thou them , 0 God , let them fall ly their own counfels : caft them out in the multitude of their tranfgrejftons , for they, have rebelled a-painfl thee. j n

In the fourth place he ftrengtheneth his hope to be helped* becaufe bis enemies fins were ripe for judgement. Whence learn, i. Among other motives to make the godly take heed of their carriage in time of triall , this is one, they have to do with a falfe world, and hollow hearted men, who will make falfe pretences of what is not their intentions, and will make promifeof what they mind not to perform, and will give none but rotten and poyfonablc advice, fairdedwith falfe flattery, and all to deceive the godly, and draw them in a fnare. This is it, be faith, For there isnofaithfulnejfe in their mouth, their inward part U very mcfadneffc, their throat is an open fepul-chre, they flitter with their tongue; and this is the nature of all carnall men,when it cometh to the point of defending Gods caufe in time of triall. z. Though this prayer bee not to be drawn in imitation againft particular perfons, by us who have not fo infallible revelation of mens ftate before <jod, yet is it a prophefie againft all the irreconcilable enemies of Goij and of his people, againft whom the Spirit of God ma-keth imprecation here, faying^ Deftroy thou them, 0 God. 3. There is no need of any other means to deftroy the,Lords enemies, then their own devices; The very courfe they take toeftablifli themfelves, will ferve for their own ruine. Let them fall, faith he, by their own counfel. 4. The certain caufe of the ruine of the perfecuters of Cjods people, is the ripenefs and full meafure of their fins. Caft them out ("faith he) in the multitude of their tranfgreflions. 5. The oppofing of truth, and of the Ordinances of God, in the perfonof bis fervants who ftand for the fame, is not fimply the oppofing of mortall men, but the oppofing of God y whofe quarrel it is $ Therefore, faith he, They have rebelled againft thee.

VerC 11. Hut let all thofe that put their trufi in thee, rejoyce: let them ever Jhout for joy, becaufe thou defendtft them: let them alfo that love thy Name, be joy full in thee.

13. For thou, LORD, wilt blejfe the righteous, with favour wilt thou compaffe him, as With a Jhield.

Inthelaft place, hemaketh prayer for all the Godly,mi-litant in this warfare with himfelfe, that they may ftiare together in the Lords fayour. Hence learn 1. Perfection for rizhtcoufnsfs is a caufe common to ail believers^ wherein

they

they fhouldalljoyn>and pray one of them for another, and feck for a joy full out-gate each to other in their own time. for this caufe, after prayer againft enemies, he faith > But let til that truft intbee rejoyce. 2. The manifefted care of God for his people, in preceding and delivering them from their enemies^ is matter of exceeding joy to his people, becaufe he is glorified herein, and bis church is preferved : Lettbem ever fboutfor joy , becaufe tbou defendeft tbem. 3. Such believers as have gotten grace to love Cjods name, ( albeit it be not yet given unto them to fufFer for his Name,) are allowed to ftiare in the joy of vi&orious fufferers.Let tbem alfq that love *&y 2sJjM»e, faith he, be joyfull intbee. 4. The perfon who is juftirled by faith, and itudieth unto holineffe, is an heir of Gods bleffing, whether he be leffe or more taken notice of by the world, whether entred in the conflict with perfecutcrs or not: For tbou, O Lord, wilt bleffe the righteous. 5. The favour and good will of God toward hisownj is aftrong and glorious defence to them 5 it is a crowning fhield, a fhield compaffing a man round about like a glorious Diadem, a fhield very handfome and ftrong, which the believer ought to gripe well, and hold faft, and manage warily, and oppofe ic to every affault of the adverfary: a crowning fhield, which circkleth the man round about,and keepeth offthe dine of the adverfaries weapon, even when the pur(ued beleeyer is noc aware: With favour wilt tbou compajfe him as with a fhield.

P S AL. VI.

to the chief Mupcianon tieginotb upon Sbeminith> A Pfalm of David.

Another experience of David, ufcFull to be known by all the children of God, who anefubjedto the like exercife ; wherein David being under the fenfe of the Lords heavie hand, upon his body and fpirit, prayeth for the removall of felt wrath, ver. 1,2,3. Next prayeth for the renewed feeling and experience of Gods mercy towards

him,

him, laying forth his lamentable condition be* fore the pitifull eye of God, ^.4,5,6,7. A ^ er which, being heard and comforted, in the third place, hee defyeth, and triumpheth over all his enemies, ver.%£.

Verf. I. ^\ L&rd, rebuke mee not in thine Anger, \^J neither chafien mee in thy hot dif-fleafure.

2. Have mercy upon mee , O Lord , for I am weak^, O Lord heal mee , for my bones are vexed.

3. My foul is alfo fore vexed : but thou 5 O Lord , how long f

From his prayer for removal of wrath, Learn, i.'Icis poffible> that a true believer, who hath been oft times refreshed with the fenfe of Gods favour,- may by fome fad exercife, have his confeience fo wakened in the fenfe of fin, as he can feel nothing but wraths and fear of cutting off* as this experience of David maketh manifeft. 2. There is no relief in fuchcafe 3 fave to fet faith on work, whatfoever be felt or fearcd,and to feek mitigation and deliverance of God, as the Prophet doth here. 3. Even the fatherly wrath of God ,and far more the apprehenfion of hot difpleafure of an angry Judge , is unfupportable to a foul that knoweth God 3 and hath ever tafted of his favour before : Rebuke me not in thy wrathjaith he; 4*. There is as much ground of faith holden forth in the Lords Name •jpe^wytf, (importing his unchangeable being, and his conftancy in his promifes ) as to ground 3 prayer upon it, for obtaining the change of a mans ca(e to the better, in the hardeft condition imaginable i O Lord, or Orfehovt, ( faith he, ) Kebu\e me not in thy wrath. 5. Though fenfe feel wrath, and fee nothing but hot difplea-lurej, yet faith can pierce through clouds, and befpeak mercy, Have mercy on me , 0 Lordfiiih 'David, in the mid ft of this fad condition. Though fin doth provoke anger, yet the mifery and inability to fub(u% prefented unto God, is the ob. je&of mercy, and a motive to faith to expedcompaflion 3 Have mercy on me> faith he, for I am ma\{* 7. When iin bath <kawn ob fieknef$> or .any other danger, let pardon of

fin

fin be firft fought, and after that, the removing of the ftroke J for firft, he faith, have mttcy on me, and then, heal mc. 8. The Lord can make the ftrongeft and moft infenfible pare of a mans body, fenfiUe of his wrath, when he pleafcth to touch him, for here Davids bones are vexed. 9. Anguifli of Spirit and torment of conference, is heavier then any torture of body, as, my foul alfoisvexed , doth import,. 10. The Lords apprehended abfence in trouble, and delaying to an-fwer the iupplicant* putteth a load above a burthen, and fur-pafleth all expression of words 5 for here his fpeech is cutted, But thou 0 Lord, bow long.

Vcr. 4. Returne y O Lord, deliver my foul: O fav erne for thy mercies fake.

5. For in death there is no remembrance of thee : in the grave who ft all give thee thanks ?

6. I am weary with my groaning, all the night wake 1 my bed to ftoim , / water my couch with my tears.

7. Mine eye is confumed becaufe of grief ; it wax-eth old, becattfe of all mine enemies.

In the next place he prayerh lor a renewed fenfible experience of Gods mercy to him, becaufc of his pitifull condition. Wherein learn, 1. A renewed Wenk of the Lords countenance will fatisfiea foule in greareit diftrefle : Therefore David waveth this for a remedie of atl his forrowr Return, 0 Lord. 2. If defertion continue, fear of periflitne utterly doth pre-fenc it felfe 3 as this prayer infinuaterh, O Lord, deliver my foul. 3. The onely time to fpread the praife of God^ by making mention of him before rhem that know him not, is rbe time of this life: For in death there is no remembrance of thec. 4. TbeChriftians love of lite, fhould procetdfrcm rh^ love of honouring of God in this lite, (where it may inlarge Gcds glory, before them who may be profi.fd by pleaching of bis praife) &fhould be preferred to our own contemmet for a time in heaven, (o long as God pleafetti to take fervice of us here. For this is the force of the J rophets reafoning, In the grave who Jhallgive thee thanks ? Our place waiteth far us,& no man can take it over our head, while we on earth are induring toy-ling and trouble, to bring more to heaven wich us. ?. A true defire and purpofe to glerifie Gcd in this life, to the edifying

fyitkg of others, may give hope of fome prolonging of life, and affurance of not pcrifhing for ever: for 7)avids hope to be heard doth run here upon this ground. 7. The moft la-ftingj prefling, and piercing forrow that ever foul felr, is from the fenfe of fin, and of Gods difpleafure for it, as the prophets exprefsion here doth give evidence.8.The exercife of the godly under the fenfe of Gods difpleafure, may be very heavy, and of long continuance : The prophet is'weary mtb bis groaning, &> hfs eys confwned mtb grief. 9.N0 delaybf comforc,no fenfe of fin, no fear ofGodsutcer difpleafure can be a reafontotbe believer to ceafe from prayer, and dealing with God for graces for the prophet is wearie, but giveth not over 5 onely his condition is the matter of frefh mourning to him night and day, and po wring out of tears in the Lords bo fome: All the night malietb be his bed tofwim, and vpateretb bis couch mtb bis tears. 10. The infulcing of enemies over the godly when the Lords hand is heavie upon them, becaufe it refle&eth upon Religion and upon Gods glory, is a main ingredient in the forrow of the godly : Davids eye had waxen old and dim mib griej r , becaufe of all bis enemies.

Verf. 8. Depart from me all ye worses of iniquity : for the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping.

9. The Lord hath heard my fupplication , the Lord Will receive my prayer.

10. Let all mine enemies be ajhamed and fore vexed : let them return and be afhamed fuddenly.

In the third place David defyetb all his enemies , being comforted by the light of Gods countenance, and lifted up in his fpiric. Whence Learn, 1. Tbe Lord can fhortly change the chear of an humble fupplicant, and raife a Soul trembling for fear of wrath, to a triumphing over all fort of adverfaries, and over all tentations to fin arifing from them, for the return of the Prophets prayer makethhim fay, now y Depart from me alt ye workers of iniquity. 2. Tbe Sacrifice of a contrite Spirit 5 offered by a believer, the Lord will not defpife; For the Lord beard tbe voice of tbe Prophets weepings $. The hearing of our prayer fhould be thankfully obferved, and made ufe of, for ftrengthening our faith in prayer afterward : For after the Prophet hath ini / Tbe Lord bath beard

my

my fupplicxiion 5 Headdetb, The Lord vpill receive my prayer 4.The enemies of the Godly lhall all of c hem be difapp'oinud of their hopes, and aflumed for their attempt* againft them, and filled with vexation for their pains 5 for this prayer fut-nimed by the Spirit ( verf. 1 o.) to one of the Godly againft his wicked enemies , is a prophecie againft all the reft of the enemies of the Godly, in all ages-

PSAL. VII.

Sbiggaion of David, wbkb be.fang unto the Lorl> concerting the words ofCuJh the Bevjamiu.

The Prophet as a type of Chrift myftical, and art example of Chriftiansfuffering, being flandered of treafon againft his Princely one of the courtiers, firftfleeth to God for delivery, verf. 1, 2* Secondly cleareth his innocencie, verf 3, 4, 5. Thirdly requefteth the Lord to judge between him and his enemies, verf. 6,7,8,9'. And fourthly in prayer is made confident, that the Lord will plead for him 1 againft his enemies, verf. i<\ 11, 12,13. an( * w *" return their devifed mil-chief againft him, upon their own head, verf 14,15, 16. Whereupon in the laft place he pro-mifeth praife to God for his righteous judgement, verf 17.

Verf. 1. /^\ Lord., my God, in thee do I pttt my \^J truft : fave me from all tloem that perfecute me , and deliver me :

2. Lefi he tear my foul like a lion , renting it

in pieces , while there is none to deliver.

ASto thefirftp2rc, wherein be fleetfa to God to be de-

liyered from the bloody tongues of calumniators 3 Learn ■

D i'li

i. It is a part of the exercife of Chrift fervaats* to be Hindered as Traitors to their lawfull Magistrates, as Dxvil was by CuJI) 3 a flattering courtier. a. God who is able to clear the innocent and to defend them from malice, is in this cafe to be run unto 3 and ufe is to be made of faith in him, and our Covenant with him, for rekife from all adverfaries, as the Prophet doth here. 3. If God do not interpofe him-ftlfj for defence of his unjuftiy flandered Servants, there is nothing to be expected from wicked enemies inraged 3 bu: mcrciieis beaitly cruelty , as is fhowen in Davids experience.

Verf. 3. 0 Lord my God , if I have done this , if there be iniquity in my hands.

4. If I have rewarded evil unto him that was at face with me , ( yea ^ I have delivered him that without catife is my enemy.)

5. Let the enemy perfecute my foul ^ *wd take it; yea\ let him tread down my life upon the earth , and lay mine honour in the dtifi . SeUh.

In the fecond place, wherein he clearetb his own inno-cencyjjLcartf.i Though innocency cannot exempt a mau fvom being unjuftiy fhndered 3 yet it will furnifli him with a good confeience, and much boldnefs in the pa'ticuiar , before Godj as here is (cct),verf. 35 4. 2. The more a mr.n doth , render for evil good 3 t«he more confidence fhall he have, when he cometh to God $ for innocencie ferved David for this good ufe , That be bud delivered Saul, wbo without caufc wm hu enemy, verf 4. 3 .He that is confeicus of dom^or intending injary to his neighbour;, will have his own confeience againfthim, in the time when he meeteth with a greater in-jiuy dont to him , and in that cafe will be forced to juftific Gods rijiucoufnefs a&ainft himfeif, as Da*vids conditional prayer doth here import verf. 5.

Verf. 6. Arife , O Lord , in thine anger , lift hp thy felf, becaufe of the rage of mine enemies : and awake for me to the judgment that thou haft com* manded*

ji So

P S A L. VII. r>

7. So /ball the Congregation of the people cow-paffe thee about : for their (akes therefore returne thou on high.

8. The Lord Jhall judge the people : judge w<% O Lord , according to my right eoufntfs % and according to mine integrity chat is in me.

9. Oh let the wickednefs of the Voided come to an end , but ejlablifi the jufi : for the righteous God trieth the hearts andreines.

In the third place, he prayeth that God would judge between him and his enemies : Whence learn, 1. Though the Lord for the tryal and cxercifc of bis children , it ftill as ic were, for a time, when men are about to opprefle them J yec will he in due time manifeft himfeif to be no idle fpe ft a tor •f wrong j but a juft defender of the opprefTed , and avenger of the injurious, He mllarife in anger, andli]tupbim(elf z. When our enemies are defperatly malicious, and nothing can mitigate their fuy; let the confederation of Gods juftice mitigate our paffion : For be will arife in anger Againft them* 3. There is no lefie ju'tt zeale in God > to defend his own oppreffed people, then there is malice in the wicked^ to wrong them: For bis rifing in anger\ is here oppofed, to the rage of tbp enemies. 4. Albeit judgment againft the oppreilour be not at the firft executed, yet God in his Word hath given out fen-tencc againft them , and in hisa&ive providence , hath pre" pared meanes and inftrumcn:s for execution thereof indue time ; When he\hallawa\\e to execute the judgment t»bub he hath commanded, or given order for. 5. When the Lord arifeth to judge his enemies, then the Lords people will draw warmely unto him, and as it were, compajfc him round about. 6 m In calling for juftice upon the wicked enemies of Gods people, we mould not be led with private paflicn , or defire of revenge j but with defire of Gods glory , ^nd edification of his people: for their fakes prayeth he, return thou on high, or afcend to thy Tribunal Seat. 7 Principles of Rciigion, whereof we may have ufc in our exercifes, mould be folidly digefted , that we may apply them readily to tife , as need re-qiiiretb, for Strengthening of our faith, and prayer to God* for tiben the Prophet bath fettled his faith Upon the Do&rine,

a % hi

of GWj judging and executing jufticc in favours ofbit people, in the general, he applyeth it to his own particular,faying, judge me 0 Lord. 8. When a man hath made peace with God about all his fins, upon the terms of grace and mercy,, through the Sacrifice of the mediatour, he may in comparifon with his injurious enemies , in,a particular cauCe, appeal to Gods juftice to decide the controverfie j as here the Prophet doth, faying , fudge me according to my rigbteoufnefs, O Lord^ and mine integrity that is in me. o. When a proceffe hath been lying long before God , and the contrcverfie between the godly and their perfecu:ors is not yet decided, the godly may put in a bill for puffing the decree, and executing of the fentence, as here is done : Ob'let the wicfadnefs of the voiced come to an end , (<fc. 1 o. ! The upright man needs noc to fear that his enemies ihall obtain a decree in their favours, or fufpcnlion, or reduction of the fentence pronounced : For the rigbteom §od tryetb the heart and ibe retries.

Verf 10. My defence is of God , which faveth the upright in heart.

11. God judgeth the righteous ' and God is angry with the wicked every day.

12. If he turn not , he will whet his fword ; he hath bent his bow , and made it ready.

13. He hath alfo prepared for him the inftru-ments of death j he ordaineth his arrows againfl the pcrfecutors.

14. Behold, he travelleth with iniquity , and hath conceived m.ifchief\ and brought forth falf-hood*

15. He made a pit and digged it > andis fallen into the ditch which he made .

16. His mifchieffhall return upon his own head^ and his violent healing fhall come down upon his own pate.

In the fourth place is the anfwer of his prayer, [fi^.] af-furance given of delivery to him, and of judgment on his enemies: Whereupon the fupplicanc giveth thanks to God.

Wbmz

iVbenccLcam, x. Tbe fruit of faith joynd with a good confcience, is accefle to God in prayer, confidence, peace and .tranquillity of mind, mitigation of trouble, protection and deliverance , as tbe Prophets experience here doth prove. 2. Victory granted unto faith,after wraftling with darknefsj is fatisraftcry to the fonl of the godly , as it all that the believer did hope for were perftded ; for he is now clear to fajj CMy defence is of God , (<fc. 3. Wbatfoever we do think in the time of tentation, neither jufticeagainft tbe wicked ; nor mercy coward tbe godiy is idle 5 for Gods Word and Works do fpeak mercy to the one 5 and wrath to the other, every day ; all things are working for the ones good , and for the-others damrm^e continually 5 For God judgetb tbe righteous, and is angry with the wicked, every day. 4. Goi delayeth the execution of bis judgment on tbe wicked , to lead them to repentance 5 for here God hath whet his [word to ftrifie , // the wicked turn not. 5. If repentance intervene nor, the de-ftrudion of the wicked is inevitable : If he turn not. the inftru* mentsof death are prepared, and tbe arrows directed towards the perfecuters. 6 It is a matter of no i'mall pains that the (inner is put unto, to ferve the Divil and his own corrupt affedions^fcc travelleth as with a childc^he digs a pit,one of the bardeft pie* ces of work to Haves. 7. When once the wicked hath conceived mifebief 3 he cannot reft till he bring his purpofc to a&ion , that his finfull. thoughts may be wrought in e fife ft : He conceivetb mifebief and travelleth with iniquity. 8. The adverfary of Gods people ftull have no profit of all his labour, but (hall be me: wi:h difappcintment , He brivgeth forth faljhood , and the evil which is moft contrary to his hope and intention (hall befall him : He is fallen in the ditch which be made, and his mifebief fball return upon bis vwn bead , &>c. as a ikone thrown up againft heaven > returneth upon the head of him who did throw it.

Verf. 17./ will praife the Lord according to his righteoptfyiefs : and willfing praife to the name ef the Lord moft high.

In the laft place he promifeth praife , and clofeth his fong fo, Whence Learn. 1. The iffue of tne hardeftexercife of the godly is comfort to their fouls, and praife to God, as here wc fee. 2. When faith is fenfibly fatisfied , andfetledinaffu-

ranee of what waspromifed, it will be glad and give thanks for what is to come, as if it were in poffeflion already : fo fpeakechthis conclufiorb 1 will praifs the Lord, and 1 will fing praifeto the l^jimc of the Lord. 3. Let the party op-poler of the g'^diy be never To powerful! and violent, and his place in the world never fo high, faith may fet to its feaU that God fliall mantfeft himfelfa righteous Judge in power and authority above the higheft opprefling powers on earth : 1 mil fing prxife to the Tsljme of the Lord mofi high.

PSAL. VIII.

Tp thechief MluficUn uponGitteth, A Pfalmc of David. To the end the prophet may commend the glory of Gods grace toward man, he firft admireth his glory in the works of Creation and Providence, which are able to flop the mouths of all blafphemous Atheifts, ver. 1, 2. In the fecond place, he admireth the Lords love to man above all other, even the moil glorious creatures, ver.^q. Thirdly he fetteth out this grace of God to man, in the Incarnation, humiliation, and exaltation of Chrift for mans caufe, and for reftoring of redeemed man in Chrift, to their, right unto, and over, the vifible creatures, ver. 5,6,7,8. and cldfeth the Pfalme„ with the admiration of Gods glory in all theEarch.^.9.

Ver. 1. £~*\ Lord our Lord, how excellent is \^s thy Name in all the earth ! who haft f^ thv glory above the heavens.

2. Out of the mouth of babes , and [ticklings haft thou ordained ftrengthbecaufe of thine enemiesJthat thou might eft (iillthe enemie andthe avenger.

From bis admiration of Gods glory in the works of

Creation

Creation and Proridence,/c4rff, i. The godly are not al waves born down with trouble > Sometime c^jey Invc liberty ro go, and delight themfelves in the beholding of gods glory, and goodncfs towards tbemfclves, as rhe whole Pfalmc ih:w-ech. 2. The myfteryof the glory of God, in his \vo ks of Crea:ion, and Redemption, is inch, as none fave the eye fpiritualiy illuminate by his Lpivicj can fee it: And he that feeth it cannot but be ravilhed therewith, when he doth dit-cerne it 5 and none can fufficiently comprehend it, or take k up fully, lave God himfclf. Therefore the prophet direcV cth his fpecch full of admiration, wholly to the Lotd, throughout all the Pfalme. 3. The glory of the Lord is grea -lyfweetned unto the godly, in the time of their prayfing of bismajeftie, when they confider their own Ihtereft in him, as in their own propriety. Therefore faith he, O Lord our Lord* bow excellent is thy Name I 4. No words are fuffirient to fetoutthe glory of the Lord, not only a"» i> in it feif, hue even as it is difcoveredto a fpiriruall underft ending •, Therefore by way of admiration, muft he cry out, How excellent U thy Name \ ?. The heavens and celeftia! lights mining from above, docfpeake muchof Goes gloryj burin ifted his glory is greater then they can ho ( d fonh 5 for bis glory is fa above the heavens. 6. Albeit the glory of the Lord doth Mil the world, yet hath be enemies of his glory, to wh, profane and god/efs perfons, Atheiits, Epicures, and persecutors of his people and truth 5 For here are enemies (poken of, 2nd avengers, opening blafphemous mouths ffgatnft him, and his people, as if God, and his people, had injured them. 7. No: only the Providence of God in new born babes, Framing tbem in the belly, Providing nourishment unto hem when they are born, and making them to fuck the brcflsj but al-fo the giving of faving knowledg to feme of them, in their tender years, is able to refute all Atheifts and profane defyi-ks of rhe glory of the Lord : for out of the mouth of babes and fuellings be hath ordained ftrengtb, or ftrong convi&ion, to (till the entmie and the avenger, and put him lo iilence, Mattb. 21. 16.

Vcr. 3. JVhen I confider the heavens, the worh^ ef thy fingers ^ the Aloon and the Stars which then haft ordained ;

4. What \$ man, that thou art mindfull ofhim ? D 4 md

and the fon of wan that thou vifteft him >

From his admiration in Gods refped, and love to man a-bove all other creatines, ledrne, i. The weaknefs and un-worthinefs of man, confidered both in bimfelf, and compared with the glorious creatures made for his ufe, do commend the bounty of God to man, and make it a matter of great Admiration. For when the prophet confidereth the glorious heavens &c.he z$kztb,Wbat it man? &o *• Man of all the creatures is moft efteemed and taken care of by God. For he is mindfullof man, and daily vifitethhim-

Ver. 5. For thou haft made him a little lower then the angels, andhaft crowned him with glory and honour,

6. Thou madefl him to have dominion over all the work/ of thy hand ; Thou haft put all things under his feet.

7. All Jhcep and exen, yea^ and the beafts of the field.

8. The fowl of the ayr^ aed the fijh of the fea 3 and whatfoever paffeth thorow the paths of the fe as.

In the third place, helookethon man confidered in bis Creation before the fall, and as he is in his head Chrift (who is God incarnate, humbled and exalted for mans caufe after tbe fall,) rcftored to what he ioft by the fall. Whence learn* 1. Look unto man in his creation, and God hath given him the place, in order of dignity, above all the creatures vifible, next unto heavenly Angels, Thou baftmadebim a little lower then tbe Angds. z. Look unto man after his fall, reftored by Chnftumo his place, andinthis refped he is dtablifhed in that dignity to be next unto the glorious Angels: Thou baft madebim a tittle lower then tbe Angels. $. Look unto man in our Head Chnft Jefus, God incarnate, and there man is wonderfully exalted in regard that for refpeci and love to man, the Man Cl;rift being very God, is bumbled unto the death of the crofTe. And in this (enfe doth the Apoftle^ Hefc. %. 7, o. take this place, Tboumadeft bim a little lower then the Avgels- for tbe fuffering of death. 4. Look unto man in Chriit Jcfus, after his refurredion, and in his glorifications tied bath crowned bim with glory and Majeftie. <. It is no

final!

fmall point of dignifying man , chat all beleevcrs have by Cbrift this tide of Hdrfhip, with lawful! ufe and pcffeffion of the creatures recovered and reftored unto him : Tbouma* deft bim to have dominion over the wor\{s oftbine bands. 6 As there is nothing which may do man good fervice> which God hath not granted man dominion over in and through Cbrift, fo there is nothing can barm, but bee hath puriinder/Chrifts feet, and under beleevers feet in and through Chrift, to wit, fin and Satan* and all our enemies, and Death the laft enemy 5 He bath put all things under bis feet, as the Apoftle ga-theretb, 1 Cor. 15. 26. 7. Chrift (hall not lay down bis kingdom which he hath in his Cburcb, and over all her enemies, till hee hath put down all rule and authority and power againft him and his Church, and have fubduedall enemies under bimfelfe. For be muft reign till be bath pat: all things under bis feet , as the Apoftle colle&eth, .1 Cor. 1 £.25. 8. Nothing is excepted or exeemed from being Tub- * jed to Chrift> a? man, no not,the holy Angels (who are made miniftring Spirits, to ferve believers) but only Gcd, eflen-tially confidcred, he only is excepted. For be bath put all things under bis feet > but when he faith, all things are put under bim, it is manifeft that be is excepted who did put all things under bim, as the Apofth proveth from this places Cor. 15.

Ver. 9. O Lord our Lord, ho^Q excellent is thj Name in all the earth. !

He clofeth the Pfalme as he began it with admiration: Whence Icarne, 1. The prayfes of our Lord, and the excellency of our covenant right, and Imereft in him, are worthy again and agairf to be confidered^ and that God mould be proclaimed Lord of us whom he hath lifted up to fo high a Dominion. Therefore is this verfe repeated again. 2. When a man hath begun to declare fome reafon of his wondring at the glory of God, manifefted in the whole world, and fpecully in his Church, he muft give over the full explication of this glory, and clofe as he begun* with wondering ftill, as here the fame exclamation of wondring at the excellency of (jods glory concludeth the Pfalme, as it did be. gin it, OLord our Lord, bow excellent is thy K&mein all the earth 1

PSAL.

PSAL IX.

To the chief Mufician upon Mutb-Labbcn. A P/alme of *D&viL

Here is Davids fong of praife to God, firft for his own experience of Gods goodnefs towards himfelf, and Gods righteous Judgment againft hts enemies, ver. 1,2,3,4. Secondly, for the Lords readinefs to do the like work, in favours of all the godly,ver. 5,6,7>8,9,io. Thirdly, he exhorteth the godly to praife God with him, ver. 11,12. Fourthly, he prayeth for his own deli-verie outofhis prefent diftrefs, vei|i3,i4. Fifthly, be hath afluranceofthe overthrow of all his enemies, ver. 15,16,17,18. And laft of all, for the excecution of this overthrow, he heartily prayeth, ver.19,20.

Veni.T Will praife thee, O Lord, with my whole X heart, 1 will Jhew forth all thy marvel-lorn worlds.

2 J will be glad and re Joyce in thee : I will fmg praife to thy name^ O thou moft high.

3 When mine enemies are turned back^, they Jhall fall and perijh at thy pre fence.

4 For thou haft maintained my right andmycaufe % thou fate$1 in the throne \udging right.

FRdm the firft part of this Song of praife, lam, 1. The exercife of the Saints in variecy of troubles, doth occafion the fctting forth of the glory of God in all his Attributes, as iftthisPfalm is ftlevrn. 2. VVhen the hean is enlarged with thefenfe of Gods goodnefs, the wok ofpraifing God will be more heartily undertaken, and a lar^e heart will make a

looted

loofed tongue and an open mouth, to fee forth his glory. David will now praife the Lord with hU whole heart. $. One work of Gods wonderfu'l goodnefle ufeth to call for anotber> tbat they miygo forth together in each others bands to fe<: forth his excellency 5 as here L avid mil Jlxw forth ail hU wonderful irorfcy. 4. A lover of the glory of God^cannot reft till he communicate with ethers what hce icnowethofthc Lo: ds wonders : bewil Jhew forth (for others upftirring^ all the Lords marvellous voor fa. 5. Not any benefit*or gift received of God, but God himtelf, and his free favour is the matter of the beleevers joy : David will be glxd and rejoyce in God him-felfe. 6. It is not enough to have joy in our heart in the Lordj but it is his glory, that the joy which we have in him, be openly known as occiflon pffereth : Therefore wilVavii fing praifes to the name oj the Lord moft high. 7. The way of giving God the glory in every a&ion, and in fpeciall of our victories over our enemies, is to acknowledg him to be the chief worker thereof and the creatures to be but inftru-ments by whom be turneth the enemie back ; for the enmic falltth>and perijhetb at hU pre fence. 8. As for time by-gone God fhould have the giory of what'is done, fo muft we confecratc the jlory of what dull be done, and of what we would have done^altogcther to the Lord > therefore alfo for time to come D&vM fpeakech, When mine enemies are turntd back, (to wit, by thy power,) they, fh alt fall at t by prefence. 9. Wereacaufe never fo right and juft, it recjuiretb Gods power for keeping it on foot: The juiineffe of the caufi muft not berelyedon, but God muft have the rruft of the caufc, and the glory of maintaining of i: : Pav/i/acknowledgetb God the maimainer of his right and cauje. 1 o. What Judge foever Hull condemn us unrightecufly, there is a higher Judge to jud^e the caufe over again, and the parties alfo ; who when he fhewethhim-felf, fhould be glorified in his juftice by usj Thoufittefl in the throne judging right, fai:h Davids after he was he was condemned ot the Judges of the Land.

Ver. 5. Thou haft rebuked the Heathen, thou hafl deftrojed the Wicked ; thou haft put out their name for ever and even

6 0 thou enemy^deftruBions are come to afcrfetx-all end : and thou haft deftrojed Cities, their memo-

rial is verified with them.

r 7 But

j But the Lord/ball endure for ever : he hath prepared his throne for judgment ;

S Andhee (halljudge the world in right eoufnefs, hee (ball minister judgment to the people in upright-mffe.

9 The Lordalfo Veil be a refuge for the opprejfed, a refuge in times $f trouble.

io And they that know thy Name will put their truftin thee : for tkou y Lord, haft not forfakfn them thatfiel^thee.

In the fecond place, he forefeeth in the fpirit what (hall become of all Gods enemies, and adverfaries of his peopled and prophefreth concerning them, to the praifeofGod, and comfort of the godly, who were to live after his time : JVhence le&rn-, i. Although the confeience of the perfecuters of Gods people be filentin their fecurity, yet (hall Gods judgment againft them awake their confeience at laft, whether they be enemies wichout the Church, or within it; yea, the Lord mall deftroy them: For thou, 0 Lord, haft rebuked the beatben, thou haft deftroyed the wicked, i. Although the e-netmes have a great name in the world, yet mail their glory be Wafted, and their renown vaniin, as if ic had never been heard of: for thou Lord> haft put out their name for ever and ever. '2. The deftru&ions of the Lords people, and of their dwellings , intended by the wicked , mall be charged upon their enemies, though they have not executed and brought their malice topaffe, even when the enemies themfelve s know and think, they have not attained their pur-pofe: Their intended deftruttions (hall come to a perpetual end.

4. The time mall come, when the godly fhall triumph over all their opprefiours; yea, in the midft of the enemies info-lencies? the godly by faith may triumph over them, and fay as here, O thou enemy, deftrUclions are come to a perpetual end

5. As the enemies of Gods Church have deftroyed the earthly dwellings of the Lords people 5 fo the Lord hath deftroyed, and will deftrcy their cities and their dwellings, and ma\c their memorial ceafe with them. 6. The reign of the wicker adverfaries of Gods people is very ftiort, and in a few days they are'cut off, but the Lord fliall endure for ever, to defend his people from a^e to age. 7- Courts of Juftice among men

are

are not alwayes ready to bear plaintiffs 5 but the Lord hold-ctb Court continually, the taking in of no mars complainc is delayed lo much as one hour , though tbouiards ihculd come at once, all of them wiih lundry Petitions; Hee bath prepared bis tbtone for Judgment. 8. Albeit in the Courts of men jufiice be not alwaycs found, and very rarely in any matter concerning Ghtift 5 yet the L&id fball judg the world in rigbteou{ne§e> and minifter judgment to the fecpie in upright-neffe : the injuries done to his people mall be all of tfacm righted by him. 9. Although the Lords children have no reiidence, but be chafed from place to place, and know not whither to go in the earth, yet there is an open Citie ot refuge unto them, where they (hall finde fhelter ; Fcr tl;e Loid alfo mil be a refuge to the of preffed. 10. The Lords relief which he givetb to.his people, is referved, till other infe-riour reliefs do fail, till rhe godly man te bumbled and emptied, and then will he help ; Unto the opprefltd he ml be a refuge in time ef trouble* 11. The way of the Lords helping and comforting his own people, is by lifting up the believer above any thing which can overtake hirn 5 above the reach of ail creatures 5 7 be Lord mil be an bigb nwer y zn high place, as the word irpportttb, whence the beleever may lock down and defpife whai fkfhcan.do untohim. 12. Theignorance of the Lords goodnefs, mercy, truth, and other bis attributes* isthecaufeof making fo little u(e of God in profperitie, and fo little believing in him in time of trouble. For lb() who foow bh Name : willtruft in him. 13.They to wbcm the ipirnuall knowledg of God is revealed, will ceicainly truft in him ; and they that tiult in bim will fe\ him : and they that feekfcim, will finde him to be what be is called: for the man gnawing God, trujiing in God, and ftt{ivg God y is the fame here.

14. The Lord may for a time hide himlelf, or delay to manifeit himfelf to a believer that feekcth him (which he doth fometimes for the beleevers tryall> exercife, and prctutir.g^ yecno age can give an in fiance of his rejefiing fuchafup-plicant: for tbou Lord baft vet fcrfaken them that ftc^ thee.

15. As many experiences as are pa ft of Gods grace to bc-leeving Applicants before^this day, a* many confirmations of Faith are given, and as many encouragements to all beleevers tofeek his face in thrift; For bw new forfoo\ tbcm that fought bim.

Ver. 11

Ver. ii. Sing praife to the Lord, which dfoel-leth in Zion : declare among the people his doings.

12 When hee maketh inqnifition for bloody hee remembreth them: hceforgectethnot the cry of the humble.

In the third place, he cxhorteth the reft gf the godly to praifeGod with him. Whence learn ? i. It is the duty of all beleevers to joyn chcmfelves chearfuliy in the fetting forth the Lords care over them^ and whatfoever may make his lovely Majeftie known to the world : for fo requiretb the prefenc precept and example : Singpraifes to the Lord. 2. The only true God, and the righ: object of our joy and praifes, is he who did manifeft nimfelf to the Church of the Jews of old, who gave his Scriptures and his Ordinances to them ; and among whom he took up bis rehdence in jerufalem, in Sioit> in the Temple, in the Mercy feat, betwixt the Cbe;ubimS, ( which was a figure of the Incarnation of the Son of God > in whom, as the onely Mediator, is rhe tryfting place bttween God and Beleevers, for accepting their perfons a;:d worrhip) for fo doth the defcription of the true God hee teach us : Singpraifes to the Lord D who dvpcUab in Sion. $. The ads of the Lord for bis people are fo damped wuhthe irn-preflion of his divinity, that they are able to purchafe fclory to God even among the Nations that are without the Church, and to draw them to him ; and fo it is not a needleflc, fruit-lefle, or hopeleffe work, to declarebU doings among the Nations. 4. If the Lord be pleafcd to honour himfelfc with the martyrdome of any of bis fervants, it is not for difrefpedfc to their perfons, for they remain, even when dead, honourable in his eftimation, and high in bis affc&ibn 5 for he remembreth them in a fpeciall manner. 5. There is a time appointed of God for bringing to judgment every fin, and especially rhurther; and of ail murthers, to avenge moft fe-verely the laughter of his fervants, concerning whom it is here (aid, When he ma\eth inquifition for blood, he remembreth them: Precious in his eys is the death of his Saints. 6. There is not a loft word in the carneft prayers of the humble belee-ver, poured forth in the day of his neceffity : every petition (kill have a full anfwer, partly in this life, partly in the life to come 1 For fydforgetteth not the cry of the hmble.

Ver. 13. Have mercj upon me, O Lord, confider my trouble which I fuffer of them that hate me^ thou that lift eft me up from the gates of death.

14 That I may (hew forth ad thy praife in the gates of the daughter of Sion : I will re Joyce in thy falvation.

In the fourth place, bee cometh to his own particular and prefent cafe, and prayetb for a new experience of the truth formerly fct down , believed and fealed by him. Whenu learn, 1. When new troubles befall experienced believers, they muft betake them to their old refuge, and to the formerly biefled means of prayer > as here David doth : Have metric , 0 Lord, upon me. z! Never a word of merit mould be in the mouth of a true believer: For, Have mercy on me, O Lord, is Davids oncly plea y any good in us, is but a iandy ground to build on. 3. itfufficeth a believer acquainted with God , to preienc before God the trouble hee fuff.reth unjuftly from his enemies, and toexped deliverance from the Lords grace towards bimfclf, and from his juftice in re- . lation to the adveriary : for this is the argument here ufed, Confider m) trouble which I fuffer of them that bate mi. 4. Extreme danger of prefent death, fliould not dafh nor difcourage the believer to pray for deliverance, becaufe experience b3rh proven, that the Lord can lift a believer up from the gates of death* ?. Life fhouid not beloved fo much for it ie!f s as that wee-may glorifie God in our life, and edifie others ia theknowledg of God 5 For deliverance frcm death is here asked of GoJ, that bee may (ex forth allthcpraifes of god in the gates and moil open places of the daughter of Sion: that is, in fhe aud ience of the people of God. 6. He gets a fatiu fadory anfwer: which teacheth us, That in a moment the Lord can perfwade the fupplicant of the grant of his prayer, and fill him with joy j as here in one breath, ere the prophec could clofc his prayer, he is made to joy in the falvation or deliverance which he was perfwaded God was to give to him : 1 will rejoyce in thy falvation.

Ver. 15. The heathen are funk^ dctfon in the pit that they made : in the net Which they hid, is their own foot tak?r>i

16 The

1 6 The Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is fnaredin the work^ofhis ervn hands. Higgaion,Selah.

17 The kicked Jhall be turned.into hell, and all the Nations that forget God.

18 For the needy fhall pot alway be forgotten : the expectation of the poor /ball not perijbfor ever.

In the fifch place is fee down* how with confidence of his own delivery, he is made fure of the overthrow of the enemy. Whence learn) 1. Ordinarily, the delivery of the perfecuted people of God, is joyned with the overthrow of their op-preffors: And certainly, the wicked cannot take a readier way co mine themfelves, then to feek the overthrow of the Lords Church and people ; For here, The heathen are f\m\ down in the pit that they made ; and their crafty counfell a-gainft the godly is the trap to take themfelves into ; In the net which they hid, their own feet are ta\en. z. No^e of Gods judgments* and fpecially none of thofe judgments whereby he pleads thecaufe of his Church againft he: enemies, mould be lightly looked upon : For the Lord is known by the judgments which he executeth : His judgments bear the impreflion of his wudouie and jufticej foas the (in may be read written on the rod. 3. Amongft orher marifeftacions of Gods wifdom and juitice in pumlhing his adverfaries, this is one, The Lord makes the works of the wicked* and fpecially*whac they do againft his people, to be the very means to undoe them : The wicked isfnarcd in the worfa of his own hands. 4. As the devices of the wicked do come from he'll, fo do they return thither, and draw the dtvi(trs with them: Though they cry* Peace, peace* and pur the fear of hell far from them, yet all the wicked jhall be turned into hell. 5. As they who give themfelves to fin, and fpecially ememies to peace, do caft a-way the knowiedg of God out of their mind and afte&ions $ fo mill God caft them away far from his prefence : AH the nations that forget god, flail be turned into bcU. 6 Albeit the Lord do not prefently execute judgment on tbegodleffe oppreffors of his people* yet for refped the Lord doth bear to his people, their deftru&ion mail certainly come : They jh all goc down to hell * for the needy foill not alwayes be fwgot-;en i The cry o£ the needy and oppceflkd (hall bring judg*

mens

merit upon the oppreffours. 7. The Lords people are an humbled people, affl&ed, emptied, fenfiblc of their need, driven to a daily attendance on God, daily begging of him, and living only upon the hope of what ispromifed, for lo are they hena defcribed needy, poor, fupplicants, and expectants of the performance of what ispromifed. 8. Albeit the Lord fcem to lay afide the prayers of the oppreffed godly, and forget them : and albeit the godly mans hope doth feem for a time vain, yet Jhall be not almyes be forgotten, nor his expectation perijb for ever, and fpecially the expectation bee ha:b of things everlafting, (hail not be difappointed, but (hall be Satisfied for ever.

Ver. 19 Arife^ O Lord, let not 70a?? prevail: let the heathen be]ndged in thy fight.

20 Put them in fear, O Lord : that the nations may knoVv themfelves to be but men. Selah.

In the firlt place befolloweth this condemnatory fentence of the wicked with prayer, that the Lord would put ic in exception, even in his own time. Whence leame y 1. The Lord dochnotfo delay to excecuce judgment on the oppreffors orbis people, but be may be intreated to make fpeedy difpatcb, and as need requireth toarife and fall to work, a The time of Godsarifing is,when the caufe of God which the godly do maintain is like to be loft. Arife,0 Lord, let not man prevail. There ishisreafon, why he would have God to arife. 3. When God arileth for the godly, be makcth it appear, that they are his people, and that their adveifaries are in efFcd before him but heathen, and ftrangers from the inward covenant, and common, wealth of his people, whether they be within the viiible Church* or nots fovhcfvayzzhXetthebeatbenkcjudgedinthj fight. 4. So long as the Lord dothfpare his adversaries, they do mifdeem themfdves, and God alfo. Sin doth To befott ignorant and gracelefs people, that chey forget that they are mortal I, and that God is their judge. Therefore David defireth, that the nations may ^noj» tbcmfeliestobe but men. 5. Where there is any hope or poifibility of the falvation ofenemies, the godly mansde-firc is 3 they ihould be brought in fubje&ion to God, and bumbled before him S and that judgments might be fo tempered as the enemic might profit thereby, and God be glorified; Pitt them in fearjhat they may \nw tbemfelves to be but men.

E PSAL,

PSAL. X.

This Pfalme wantcth an infcription, and that in Gods wifedome, that being lefs reftrifled to a particular mans cafe, it may be of more gencrall ufe, whenfoever the godly find themfelves in a condition whereunto this prayer maybe futable : andfpeci-ally in time of generall perfecution. The prophet here compiaineth to God and craveth juflice a-gainft the perfecuters of his people, becaufc of the intolerable wickednefs of the oppreflbr, ver. 1,2,3, 4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11. Secondly, he prayeth for haft-ning of the deliverie of the Lords people, and for haftening of judgment upon the perfecuters, for vindication of the glory ofGods juflice, againft his enemies, and of his mercy to his people. Ver. 12,13,14,15. Thirdly, be profeffeth his confidence that he (hall be heard,and fo glorifieth God, ver. 16,17,18.

Ven 1. \J\JHy ftandtft thou afar of 0 V V Lord; why hideft thou thy felf in times of trouble ?

2. The wicked in his pride doth perfecute the poor : them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

3. For the wicked boafteth of his hearts dtfirc: let and blejfeth the covetous, whom the Lord abhorreth.

4. Ths wicked through the pride of his countenance will not feekjiftct God : GWis not in all his thoughts.

5. His wayes, are altyayes grievous, thy judgments Ere far above out of his fight : as for all his enemies^ he pxjfeth at them.

6. He hathf aid in his heart, I JbaU notbemovtd: for 1 (hall never be in adverjitr.

7 His

P S A L. X. yi

7. His mouth is full of curfing, and deceit, and fraud : under his tongue is mifchiefe and vanity.

8. He fitteth in the lurking places of the villages : in thefecret places doth he murder the innocent : his eyes are privily Jet againfi the poor.

9. He lyeth in wait fecretly as a lyon in his den, be lyeth in wait to catch the poor: he doth catch the poor when he draweth him into his net.

10. Hecroucheth, and humbleth himfelfe^ that the poor may fall by his ftreng ones.

IT: He hath faid in his hearty God hath forgotten : he hideth his face i he will never fee it.

In this complaint he fpeakcch co God after the manner of men, inthetermesof fenfe, and as matters did feem to him in outward appearance. Whence team , 1. How far contrary to the word of promife, may Gods work and difoenfation feeme to fpcak: the word faith, He will ever be with his own, and not for-fa\eibcm 5 and here his dealing wich them feeaieth to fay, That heftandethafaroffy and hideth himfelfcin time of trouble. Stnk may fometime fpeake contrary to faith. 2. In this cafe the fpeech of fenfe i$ not to bee fubferibed, but the truth of the word mould be relycd upon? and the objeftion made by fenfe 3 or fuggeiiion againft cue word, is to bee brought before the Lord in prayer, that it may bee difcuiTed :• a* here the Prophet dochr Why ftandefi thou afar of, &c ? 3. Ob- < ferve how homely an humbled foul may be wich God* and how far the Lord will be from miftaking of his people, when faith doth borrow fenfes tongue 5 The Lord wilt fuffcr fucb fpeechesi and not take them in ill part, knowing that they proceed from faith and love, wraftling with fenfe $ yea, and he will fuffer them to be regiftred in his Book, as here we fee, for prudent ufe making of them, though they appear to challenge him for (landing aloofe, and hiding himfelfe. 4. Of(-rime$ it cometh to pafle, that the godly are in a mean condition in the worlds when their adverfaries are in high places and power, and fo be abletoopprefle them as their underlings. The wicked in bk pride doth per fecute the poor. 5. In refped that pride difdain-eth what is apparantly goddinamein perfon, and overvalueth its own worth, therefore pride is cafily coupled with oppre (lions

E % z?A

and pride is able to raife perfection. The melted in bis pride doth perfecute the poor. 6. What perfecutcrs do devife againit Gods people, may with good grounds be expe&ed ihali turne to be a fnare unto themfclves, Let: them be ta^en in the devifes ibcy have imagined. 7- All the Politicians on earth cannot dc-fcribe the rilcnefTe of the wickedj fo well as the Spirit of the Lord doth poinc it our, for he fettetb him forth, 1. He is an arroganr> (elf-confident man, tbreatning to bring to paflc what be would have done, as if he were able in defpite of God to effj&uaceit: He boafisofbis hearts defire. 2. He accounts of no man, but fuch a one, as by hook and crook is able to in-bance honour and riches 5 He blcjfetbthe covetous man. 3. He valucth not what God judgctb of a man, whether he be a man whom God lovcth, and rei'pccfcs, or not: be fetteih his opinion in oppoluionto Gods judgement of men. He biejfetb the man whom God abborretb. 4. The wicked man hath fuch a conceit erf bis own ability and perfection, as his countenance and carriage doth teftifie that bee fcorneth to imp-oy God by prayer for anything: Through the pride of bis countenance be will not fccli God m 5. For the rule of his life, he confukctb not what may plealV, or diipUaic God, what m3y honour, or dilhonour God. He troubles not himielfe with fuch thoughts. God is not in all bis thoughts- That is, as the Hebrew phrale doth mean, all bis thoughts are, that there is no God, or none or his thoughts are upon God. 6. His wayes are ever noyfome, tending efpeci-aily to hurt the godly. His wayes are aire ayes grievous ; or as his wayes profper, they do vex others. 7. Hefeareth not G ;ds judgements, he bclicveth not that they (hall ever come; hee puttcth them far away in his conceit; yea, and what the Lord hatbfet down in his word, as his judgement, he apptehendeth it nor 5 he is not capable, of fpirituali wifdorne. The Lords judgements are fir above out of bis fight. 8. He neither feareth God) nor man, All bis enemies he puffeth at them : as difdaining what they can doagainft him. 9. The wicked do promife to themfclves perpetuity of profperny, and do not fear evill, to fee a change to the worfc, He ajfuretb himfclfc never to be moved, nor to be in adverfity. 10. For his words, he fhndcth not to biafpheme God, to lie,fwear, andcurfe, if it may purcbafe him credit, and mav help him to deceive others. His mouth is full of turfing, ix. His fair promifes are but vanity j and when he minds amifchicfe, he hides it with pretences of beft intentions, Under his tongue is mifebiefe and vanity, ix. As thieves and

cu:-

cut-throats lie in wait about villages, to catch the ftragling puffcngers, where there arc few to.help them, fo do the wicked watch where they may oppreflethoie who have few to do for them: He fittetb in the lurking pUccsoftbc village?, in feoet places doth be murtbtr the innccoit. 13. As an Archer in the hunting of his prey, fo doth the wicked mark and fpie out a poor man, to make advantage of him : His eyes are privily fet a-gunfl tbc poor. 14. As a Lion in his den, or Tome lurking place, liech frill till the prey come by, and then he leapeth ouc upon it, when he is able to take i:; Co doth the wicked diffem-ble his malice, till he be Mailer over a man, and then doth what he can againft him. He lierh fccretly inxoait as a Lion. 15. As a crafty hunter fpreadeth bis net for a prey, and mif-kenneth it, till the prey be intangled, fo doth the wicked lay fomedevile to carch the poor, andtakcb bim. He doth catch tbc poor veben be draws bim in bis net. 16. As the Lion liech low in the duft, ss if he minded to do no harme at all > fo do the wicked men prctencf thomfeives the meft reafonable men that can be, and moft obiervant of Lnw ard equity, till by their power they may have their intent of t he poor He crtucb-etb and bnmbleth bimfclfe, that tbc poor may fail by him, or hU affociates. 17. Prefent profperi y joyned with impurity ma-kttbhimperfwadebimfelte tha: God will never take notice of him hereafter, or call him to account, or punifh him. He bath (aid in bU heart, God bath forgotten, be bidetb hi* face, he will never fee it.

Ver 12. Arife 0 Lord^O God, lift up thine hand: forget not the humble.

13. Wherefore doth the wicked contenwe God? he hath [aid in his hearty Thou wilt not require it.

14. Thou haft feen it, Jor thou beholdefi mifchiefe ^nd fpite, to requite it with thy hand : the poor com-mitteth himfelf unto thee % thou art the helper of the fa* therleffe.

15. Breaks thou the arme of the tricked, and the evil I man: feek.out his rvickedneffe till thou find none.

Thus he hath given tbc character of the enemies of G ds people, and fo made a Dittay for them. Now in the fecond place, he prayetb againft them, that their Doom may be given ouc, and may be executed. Whence learn, 1. The more we fee

8 3 Amelia*

Atheifme in the wicked, the more wee fhoulj draw near to God : And albeit the godly conceive God to lye eff, and fie ftil from executing of juftice; the godly being tempted with the tentations which overcome the wicked, yet they mud not yecld to the tentation, but pray againft it, as here is done, Arife O Lord, lift up tby bund. 2. The mercifull refped and love which the Lord bath to his afflided people, will not fuffer his juftice againft thefe perfecurers, to be long quiet, For be will not forget thchumble, $. As the Intereft which God hath in bis own people, doth engage him to fall on their enemtes 5 fo the vindication alfo of his own glory from the contempt which they do to his Name, doth ingage him againft?tbem 5 for wherefore doth the wicked comemne God, &c ? 4. The Godieffe enemies of Gods people do deny Gods providence, and deny Gods juftice, yet bis people are comforted under their faddeft fufferings by the Lords feeing and marking thereof 5 for the godly fay here, Tboubaft feenit, and beholdeft mifibief 5. Gods judgments on the wicked (hall really refute the Atbeifme of the yricked, and requite their eppofition made to the godly. Hebe-bolds mifchief and fpite to requite it mtbbk band. 6. When a man hath laid forth his defire$,and poured out his heart before God, hefliould quiet himfelfe, and caft himfelfe with his burden upon the Lord 5 for here the poor committetb himfelfe to God. And when an humble believer bath caften his burden on'he Lord, the Lord will not faile to take care of what he is trufted with, it is an engaging of Gtd, that the poor hath committed himfelfe to htm, 7. As the Lords Office, Cuftome, and Nature is, fo is his reall work to do for them who imployhim, and are not able to do for tbenuelvcs J He U the helper of the fttbcrleffe. 8. The power of perfecuters canno: be fogrcar, but God lhall weaken and breake it, fo as they ftnll not be a-blc to trouble his people. 'Brczk? thou the arme of the wicked. 9 Though the Lord reckons nor with his enemies for their fins at firft, yet he reckons tor all at laft j for lefle and for greater, for one and for all, and doth not paffe a farthing of the debt of puniihment un-exa&cd • But fecfath out their fin's till he find none. O how fearfull a reckoning muft it be, .which the Lord maketh with the impenitent, who die unpardoned, and u nreconciled with God, through the Mediator Cbrift Jcfusl

Ver-1 6 The Lord is King for ever and ever : the heathen are peri/hed out of his land.

17 Lord

17 Lord, thou haft heard the defire of the humble*, thou wilt prepare their hearty thou wilt caufe thine ear to hear.

18 To judg the fatherleffe and the oppreffed, that the man of the earth may no more oppreffe.

In the laft place, thcanfwer of the petition followeth, in a comfortable pcrfwafion of the fuppllcanr, concerning the grant thereof: Whence learn, 1. That the prayer of the perfecuted /hall not be reje&ed, becaufe the kingdom of Cbrift in bis Church is perpetuall: earthly Kings cannot live ftill to help their friends, followers, or flattereis, or to perfecure and mo-left Gods Church : But Cbrift is the Lord and }$jng for ever i and ever, to defend his people, and punifh his foes. 2. The wicked within the vifible Church, howfoever they have the ex-ternall priviledges of Gods people, yet if they continue unre-concilecb and dooppofe piety* they mail be in Gods eftimati-on, and in the day of his judging of them, counted, as tbey are here called, heathen, and flia.ll be feparate from the fellowship of God and Gods people, The heathen Jhall pcriJI) out of bit Und. 3. Its the Lords way to cxerciie his children with trouble, till be humble them, and make them fenfible of their need of his help, till he turn their fenfeof need, into a defire of his relief, and their defire into a prayer, and then he will in due time give anfwer; Lord, thou bafi beard the defire of the humble. 4. Grace to pray, and the fixing of the heart in prayer on the Lord, is his gift, no leffe then the anfwer of the prayer; and where the Lord doth give the one grace, be will alio give the other ; Thou wilt prepare their bearhthou wilt caufe thine ear to hear. 5. When God beginneth to fhew his refped to the prayers of his people aj»ainft their oppreflors, then the belplefs and weak fervants of God, fhall have deliverance from the power of oppreffours, and their oppreffours (hall not be able to do any more harm, when the Lord caufeth his ear to bear their prayer : the fatberleffe Jhall be judged, yea declaredrighteous, abfolved and delivered 5 and the opprejfmir fhxll no more oppreffe. 6. If there were no more comfort to the godly oppreffedj yet this may fuffice, that their life,inheritance, and bappinefle is in heavens and thac their oppreffours, in oppofition to them are declared here , to be { but men $f tbU earth , whole portion is no better, then what tbey have here, in this World.

E 4. PSAL,

PS AL. XI.

To the chief Mufician, *A Pfalm of David.

2)avid 9 9s an example of a Chriftian under the tryaH of his faith in time of trouble, and tempted to defperation,refifted the temptation, how defperate foever his condition fesmed: ver. i f 2. anddifpu-tcth for the confirmation of his own faith, verf. 3,

Ver.i. m WN the Lord put I my truft: how fayyee to

X wyfouly Flee as a bird to your mountain ?

2 for lofhe wicked bend their bowJhey make ready

their arrow upon the firing 9 that they may privily

Jhoot at the upright in heart.

gEfore the Prophet difpute and produce his reafons againft the tentations unto unbelief he aflerteth and avowetb his faith, and prefenteth the danger he is in 5 before God. JVbenct learn, i # Its the fureft method in our fpiricuall combate a-gainft Sathan, and his fiery darts, to hold up the fhield of faiths, and to fix our felf in resolution never to loofeour gripes off the Lord > As *David doth here, In the Lord put I my truft. 2. Haying once fixed our foot on the rock, we may the more effectually rebuke our adverfarie* for mocking of our confidence : As David doth here, fay in &Hor# (ay you to my foul, Flee. 3. God is a ftrong refuge to his own 3 wbereunto they fliouldflie like birds, chafed to th:ir ftrengtb, in nil neceflities^ for he is our rocfiot mountain. 4. The wicked world do fcorn the godly mans confidence, and the avowing of his faith in God, when they fee no vifible help for him on earth. Take up your faith now(fay they ) when they fee the man befer by apparently inextricable troubles;, as here they fay to David, flee now m A hird to, thy mountain. 5. The believer is not ftupid in time 9/ danger* nor fenfelefs of difficulties^ when bee afferteth bis

faith:

faith: For lo (faith be^ the wicked bend their bow, they have me as it were under the vine of their flint. 6. The Lord for the tx-ccrcifeof the faith of his own, and for difcovericof the plots of the wicked againft them, and for (hewing of his own glory in protecting them more cleerly, doth fuffer the wicked to make all ready* even unto prefent excecution of their cruelty, as here, they mafe ready their arrow upon the firing tojboot&c.

Ver. 3. If the foundations be defiroyed r what can the righteous do ?

4. The Lord is in his holy Temple, the Lords throne is in heaven: his eyes behold^ his eye lids try the children of men. * *

5. The Lord tryeth the righteous ; but the wicked and him that loveth violence^ his foul hateth.

6 Upon the wicked he fhallraine fnares y fire and brimftone 9 and an horrible tempeft : this (hall be the portion of their cup.

7. For the righteous Lord loveth righteoufnefs : his countenance doth behold the upright*

In the next place, he difputeth for the confirmation of his own faich by fundry reafons or feverall confederations. The firftreafonto confirmehis faun, is from the abfurdity of the tentation, tending to the overturning of the very foundation of religion, whereunto, if the believer fhouId yeild, be is loft and gone. iVhence learn y 1. Faith in God and flying to him in all ftrairs for relief, is the foundation of all religious and righteous perfons, whereupon they build their hope and happiness fetidly 5 For David had layd ic for a foundation,, that God was a Rock,, or mountain of refuse for men to fl?e unto inftraics. 2. A tentation to miftruilGod, and notto fleero htm in all rnzirds, is moft dangerous, and destructive of all true Religion, for it is the deftroying cf the very foundations of righceoufnefs and happinefs 5 and the refitting of this tentation is fo neceffary,as in what meafureit is yeild'etJ- unto, in that meafure the righteous man is put to 3 ftand, and to a comfort lefs perplexity, and Ihould defpair cerrainly if he went from" it. For if the foundations be deftroyed, what Jhall the righteous tnando? If ic be in vain to flie to God, righteous men 31 e loft men, which is abfurd.

The-

The next reafon to confirme his faith is the cftablifhment of a Mediator, fee forth in the word of God, and other holy ordinances, concerning the covenant of grace, and the benefits of ir, and duties required in it, all to be fcundin the Lords holy temple, or Tabernacle, reprefenting Cbrift Jefus and his Church, and the mutual I relations between God and his peo-]>\c.Whence learn, $. The way to rcfrefli and ftrengthen faith, is to look to God in Cbrift the mediator, Reconciling the world tobimfelf, according as he was (hadowed forth in the Temple of Jerufalem, and as he is ftill holden forth in the Churcb,inhis word and other ordinances. Firft and laft Chrift is the tryfting place, where God is conftantiyto be found on his mercy feat 5 for the Lord is in bis holy Temple, did fpeak fo much to the Church in typical! terms.

4.The third reafon is, becaufe God is a perfeft judg to take order in due time, both with them who oppofe his work and people, and with thofe who will not make ufe of his mercy. The Lords throne is in heaven. $. The Lords knowledg of all mens carriage is perfed : His eyes behold. 6. When the Lord doth not make manifeft by his work that he feeth mens carriage, but feemetb,asit were, to winksnd clofe bis eyes, he is then about to try the hearts of men, and to bring their thoughts to light. His eye His (when eyes feem clofedj do try the children of men. 7. The troubles wbercunto the Lord doth pat his children, in times of tentation, are nor to be exponed as ads of difplcafure, or meer juftice, but as ads of wHedome and love, to try,excercife,and frame them in obedience.rfo Lord tryeth the righteous 5 at fuch times as he fendetb trouble fpecially. 8.How ever he giveth the wicked and violent perfecuter to have a feem-ing profperity,while the godly are in trouble,yet that is no ad of Jove to them: for the melted and him that loveth violence, his foul batctb. 9. All the Teeming advantages which the wicked have in their own profpericy, are but meanes of hardening of them in their ill courfe, and holding them faft in the bonds of their own iniquities, till £od execute judgment on them. Upon the wicked be Jbailrainefnxres. 10. Whatsoever be the con-ditionof the wicked for a time, yet at length fuddain, terrible, irrcfiftible, and remedilefs deftrudion they flvll not efc3pe:j£re and brimftone and an horrible tempeft is the portion of their cup.

The 4. reafon for confirmation of his faith is from the Lords love, fetded upon his upright fervanrs , in the midft of their troubles, while theyfuffcr for righteoufnefs fake. Whence learn,

11. The

I i.Thc refpeft tbatche Lord hath to tbecaufe for which his fer-Vantsdofuffcr,haftnetb on, and faftnech wrath upon theif adversaries. Vot the righteous Lordlovcth right coufnefs, isgirenas areafonof tbefemenceintbepreceeding verfe. 12. The clouds do fometime hide the expreffions of the Lords refpeft and love towards bis people, yet ftill his love is (ct upon them, for continually hU countenance doth behold the upright.

t— - — ......

PSAL. XII.

To the chief Mufician upon Sheminith, 4 Pfilm of David. The Prophet having obferved, as is fet down, ver. 8. how wickedneffe liftech up the head in all the Land, when the places of power and truft do come in the hands of naughty and vile men,doth give direftion by his own example unto the godly ; firft,to have their recourfe to God by prayer, while they are born down by the wicked in fuch an ill time, ver. 1, 2. and next how to comfort themfelves by the word of God, pronouncing the fentence of juftice upon all loofe tongued men, ver. 3,4. And promifing delivery to the op-preffed godly, and prefervation of his Church in all generations, *«n,5A7« Howfoever he fuf-fe,r wicked men to bear rule fometimes, and wickedneffe to abound by that means, ver.S.

Ver. I. XJ[£lp Lord, for thegodlj man ceafeth : A. A for the faithful fail from among the children of men.

2. They fpeak^ vanity every one Vpith his neighbour : with flattering lips, and with a double heart do they

fpeak-

J)Avid finding no friend at court, nor any place or power, who either would fpeak a word in bis favours, or give him any

friendly '

So P S A L. XII.

friendly counfell, turnctb himfelf to God. Whence learne > I. The face of the vifible Church may fometimc be fo far defaced, that there cannot be a man found to (how bimfelf openly, for a goodcaufe, as here is noted. The godly man ceafetb, the faithful fail from amongthe children ofmen. i. In fucb a cafe God can and will fupply the in-lackof friends and counfellers to hi* own,when they feek to him, Help Lord : the Lord will help- j.At fuchatime, a godly perfon may not think upon feditious practices againft thofe tbac are in lawfull authority, but take himfelf to prayer 5 for Pivirf who had a fairer prctenfe for fuch a pra&ice then any private man or men can have, becaufe be was defigned fucceifour to the kingdome, hegoetb to God ia this cafe, and cryetb, Help Lord.

He proveth the in-lack of godlincfs and faithfulnefs, becaufe there was no upright, nor honeft dealing among the people, but falfhoodand flitterie. Wlxnce lame, 4. Where true godlinefs is out of requeft, the common bonds of neighbourhood, (including bonds of blood, alliance,and acquaintance^ will fail al-fo,and every one will go about to deceive his neighbour* fo that a man cannot truft what another faith fovTbey fpea(i vanity every one with hk neighbour. 5. When ungodly men intend moftto deceive, then rhey are lure to fpeak faircft, giving pleafant words j with infinuacion of refpe&s in abundant complements. They fpea\ vanity to their neighbour with flittering lips. 6. Vain talk, coufening fpeeches, flattering words, are unbefeeming honeft men, and do argue in fo far as men affed them, un-godlinefs, unfaithfulnefs_, and deceitfulnefs in a man 5 for when with flatter ivg lips they fpea^with a double heart tbcy\pca\.

Ver 3 The LordI/hull cut offall flattering lips r and the tongue that fpeaketh proud things.

4 Who have faid^ With our tongue will Vce prevail, cur lips are our own : who i$ Lord over u* ?

He letteth down in the nexc place the comforts of the godly^ which are three; The firftis from Gods juftice in pumfhing calumniators of the gedly, and proud boalltrs- Whence karne^ x. Although pick^tbanks , and flatterers of great men , in prejudice ofShe godly, doe hope to ftand by their flitterie, yet the Lord JljxU cut off all flattering lips. 2. Albeit men in power and place do threaten to bring about great things againft Gods people, yr* rhey ftnli not be able to do what they have faid, for God fiuUcut off. alfothe tongue that fpcalietb proud things.

3. Wick-

5. Wicked men arc confident and do affure themfelvcs to double out tbtir courfc by thci'- falihood, flattery 5 and calumnies agaiuft the godly > TBtj have (aid, With 9ur tongue wil we prevail. 4« Wicked men make no conscience to ule well the gifts which tbey have gotten of God > lucb as arc wit, or language, or any other thing> for they fay , Our lips are our writ. <. Wicked men ft and not in awe of God > tbey fear not pu-nimmcncfrombim,forincff.& they fay* Who is Lord over use But we muft learne from [heir fau!:s three contrary leflbnsj to who 1.That nothing which we have is our own.But 2. What-foevcr is given to us of God is for fervice to be done to him. 3. That wbatfoever we do,or fay, we bave a Lord over us,to whem we mutt be anfwerable, when he cailcth us to accounts.

Ver. 5. For the oppreffion of the poor for the fighing of the needy, now will I arife(faith the Lord)! wil fa him in fafety from him that puffeth at him.

6. The Words of the Lord^xt pure Words : as /*/-ver try e din a furnace of earth ^purified (even times.

7. Thou fhalt keep them ( O Lord) thou/halt pre-ferve them from this generation for ever,

Tbefecond comfort of the godlie in an ill time, is from the promifeof God , to deliver the godlie out of the hand of the wicked. Whence learne, 1 When the Lord hath cxercifed the Godly for a while, with the oppreffion of the wicked , be will not fail to make manifeft, th3t he hath heard their fad replications, and feen their oppreflion 5 for the oppreffion of the poor, for tbefighing of the needy,now will 1 arife/aith the Lord. z. The proud perfecuter doth chink little of the Godly, or any power that can defend bim, but doth mock the hope be hath to be helped 5 yet god will fct the gtfly in fafety jrom him that puffeth at him.

This promife the Prophet commendeth to the Church , as a precious truth, which will be found forth-coming to the full, in experience. Whence leane, 3. To the end that the word of promife may be comfortable to us , till new experience comes, we muft confider whofe word it is, and that there is no vanity in promifes, but all contained in them, (hall be found very folid, like the refined filver, or gold, which is purged from all 'drofli, and the oftner it is put in the fire,it is the more fair>and of grca • ur value, for the words are the Lords words, and pure wordily ed,

irac

true in experience, as filver tryed in a furnace of earth [even times, and clear from all drofle.

The third comfort of the godly is from aflurance given of tbc perpetuation of the Churchy cuftody of it by God,in all ages. jVhencelearne. 4. Lee men pcrfecure the godly, as much as God pleafetb to fuffer them, yet ihall God preferve a Church of god-hrperfons at all times to the end of the world : For God Jballpreferve the godly frm this generation for ever. 5. Albeit the dif* comforted godly, under perfecutors, are not a! waves able to draw prefently comfort from this promife,yet it is a truth which Goi will own, which God will keep in his hand to us, when we come to him, and which every beleever muft own, though no man mould take k offhis hand. Therefore doth 7)avid turnc himfelf to God,ifi delivering this Charter of the Churches fafe-ty, Thouy faith he, fhalt t(eep them,

Verf. 8. The wicked Walloon evefy fide, rvhtn the vileft men are exalted.

In the clofe of the Pfalme,upon his own experience 5 he draw-cth up a genera!! obfervation of what mav be expected , when the moll wicked are moft advanced. Whence lexrne, 1. God fometimes (o difpofeth in his Wifedom and Juftice, for puniih-ing of wicked people, and exercifing of the godly, that the places of government in a Kingdome, are filled notwirh the beft men, but with the vileft dftbefonsof men ; For in Davids experience it was fo, and be prefuppofeth it might fall tobefo, that the vileft of men mould be exalted, z. The wickedneffe of the ungodly doth in this cafe break forth moft, and fpreadic felfe among the Subjects, being hearcned thereunto by the Rulers toleration, cennivance, or inftigation,or example, and countenances For when the vileft men are exaltcd y then the wicked wdi( on every fide. Turne you where you wil!, you lhall meet with them, at fuch a time as the vileft are exalted.

PSAL. XI11.

To the cbiefe Mufician> a Pfalm of David. Another Chriftian experience, wherein "David under the fenfe of defertion, layeth forth hre Jamen-table cafe More the Lordz^r. 1,2. prayech for

relief

P S A L. XIII. *3

releif, wr.3,4. and by faith is refrefhed and comforted, ver. 5,6.

v.l.TJTOwlong wilt thou forget me(0 Lord)for ever} JL JLhow long wilt thoti hide thy face from me ? 2. How long (ball I take counfel in my fonl , having forrow in my heart daily } how long Jhull mine enemy be exalted over me ?

In laying forth his grief,he beginneth at his apparantdcferti-on 5 then fpeaketh of the perplexity of minde, arifing herefrom} and laft of all he mentioneth the continuance of bis outward trouble from his enemies. Whence learne> i* Trouble outward and inward? of body and Ipirit, fightings without 5 and terrors within, vexations from heaven and earth, from God deferring, and men puriuing, may fall upon a child of God at one time, and continue for a time long enough, as here > How long wilt thou forget me, bm long fhali mine enemy be exalted over mc? 2.When trouble is continucd,and appearance ofaieans of delivery is not,and God both wiibholjeth inward & outward help, fenfe callcrh-thib the Lords forgetting and biding ofbisfsce.How long wilt thou forget me and bide thy fucei 3. The Lords children in their refolution for faith and patience, dofcttothem-felves a (horter period ufually then the Lord doth , for making them have their perfect work; therefore when their hope is deferred, it makes their hea: t lick, and co cry cur. How long ? bow long i 4. When comfort tryfteth not with our time, fear of eternal 1 off cafting may readily Aide in : and this fear > a foul acquainted with God, or that lovc.cn him in any rneafure,- cannot endure. Wilt ibou for get me for tveti faith hi* 5. W bat-foe ver fenfe do fpeakj or iuggtflcd centations do fpeak, faith will relate the bufineffe to the Lord, and expe& a better fpcech from him; For in this condition the Prophet goeth to God, faying, How long, 0 Lord? 6, A ioul finding defercion* multi-plycthconfultationSjfallech in perplexity^cbangeth conciiiiions, as a lick man doth his bed> falleth in grief, aid cannot endure ., to live by its own finding, but runneth upon God for; direction as here we fee it $ How long fir dl I tilee counfel in my (out,having forrow in my beart dailyi 7. The enemies taking advamage,(by the continuance of trouble upon tu G^dly,) againft bis caufe and religion: and 3gainft God, dcth augment both the griefe

and

and temptation ot the godly * How long fiat mine enemies be exalted over me ?

Verf. 3. Coufider and hear me/) Lord my God: lighten mine eyes, left Ifteep the fleep of death.

4. Left mine enemies fay^ I have prevailed againft him ; atld thofe that trouble me > rejoyce when I am moved-

Now foiloweth bis prayer for fome comfortable anfwer, left both be mould perifh , and God be diihonoured : Whence learn, 1. Tbe edge of tentations is blunted, and griefe affwaged, when the fweiling of tbe foul doth vent ic (elf to God : and certainly complaints are then beft eafed, when they arcdiffolved in humble fupplications, as here , con-flier and. bear me> 0 Lord my God. * 2. Albeit faith belii-veth that God coniidcreth and beareth alwaies , yet it cannot reft till it feele by fome effed that be doth bear and contider, by his giving fome real lupporc* or help inneed 3 according to covenant 5 This is imported in his praying * and words of prayer, confider, hear me. $. If the Lord think it not good to give an outward delivery , faith will be content of a bicnk of Gods countenance far the prefent , lighten mine eyes , faith he, that is, Ut me have fome immediate comfort to uphold mc in the hope of my delivery. 4. Its a 'death to the godly man who bath feen him that isinvi(ible , to be long without thefenfeof Gods love 5 fenfe of fuccumbing and peri(hing in trouble , doth in this cafe ufually fet upon tbe Godly , as here, lighten mine eyes , left I fleep the fleep of death* $. Tbe enemies of the godly do feed themfeives with the trou- . ble of the godly , and rejoyce the more they fee them in di-ftreffe , and difcoura^ement > which two inconveniences* tbe Lord ufetb to prevent 5 for he cannot endure long to fee the pride and rejoyctng of the enemy to feed it felt on the mifeiies of his children 5 and this the Prophet infinuateth, when he feeketh relief 3 left the enemy glory that he hath pre-v aUed y &c.

Verf. 5. But I have trufted in thy mercy , my heart fhall rejoyce in thy falvation.

6. 1 will fing unto the Lord , becaufe he hath dealt bountifully with me.

Here

Here the Prophet is raifed up unco comfort by degrees : firfthe fetleth bimfdf upon the tried grounds or faith, then protuifeth tobimfelf delivcrance 5 and thirdly findeth comfort: lVbtnakarn y i. Albeit we find noc preient reliefe, or comfort when we prayj yet we muft refolvc ro adhere to God by faith : when we have powred out our foul in bis boforhe by prayer jwe mult refolve to fetle our feet on the ground of fai;b> before we can expect to be comforted ; For here Vivid re-lyed on Gods mercy, and ratifieth his former refolution and pra&ifc of retting on bis mercy, 1 have trufted onib) meny.

2. So loon as faith is fixed, and rtfoluce to adhere cb covenanted mercy 5 hope doth lift up the head j and this anker ofthetoffed ihip, ftayeth the foul from being driven s The believer lookerh out tor Gods faNation, by feme way of de-livery^ which God thinks good to give, and aifureth himfelf it fliall come, and that be (hall finri joy in Gods *yay of deliverance ^ My bean (faith he) flull rejoice in thy falvaiiotii

3. When the believer is rcfolved to reit on Gods mercy by faith, then foiloweth peace at leaft, and readily more comforc of Gods Spirit, then for the prefent he expected co have, yea 1 as much as (hall iatisfic him , and make him count bimfclf richly dealt with , as here David acknowledge:^ faying, He bath dealt bountifully yoixb me. 4. Frefti experience of favour from God, in the renewed fen ft of his good will to a foul, is a matter of great joy^ in the midft of trouble J and rhe right fruit of it, is a renewed refolution cheerfully to praife

. God as here we have the example, 7 will fing unto the Lord, becaufe be baib dealt bountifully with ms.

PSAL. XIV*

To the chief Mufician. A Pfalme of 'David.

David looking on the confutation of the vifible Church, and feeing the great body of the people lying in their naturall ftate , working iniquity and hating the truely Godly amongft them, even to the death, verf.i,z, 3. com* F fortcth

fortcth the Godly , firft by the care the Lord hath of them , in pleading their caufe againft the ungodly; verf. 4,5,6. and next by giving hope of better daies for the godly, when after fore plagues come on that people , Chrift (hould manifeft himfeli unto them, verf, 7.

Verf. r. *T"** HE fool hath faid in his hearty JL There vs no God : they are corrupt, they have done abominable Vvorkj 9 there is none that doth good.

2. The Lord looked down from heaven upon the. children of men ; to fee if there were any that did underftand , and fee ^ God.

3. They are all gone aftde 3 they are all together become filthy : there is none that doth good , no not cne.

The Prophet dividetb all thefe who were in the vifiblc Church, into un-regenerate men on the one hand, 3nd Gods true people converted inwardly unto him on the other bands and doth argue all the un-regenerate to be practically Atheifts, without God in the World, by the fame proofe whereby the Apoftie convinceth all men in nature, to be in the ftate of fin, Rom. $.13. iVbence learn, 1. Every man fo long as he lyeth unrenewed, 3nd unreconciled unto God ( how wife fo ever, or of how great parts fo ever he may feem to betohimfelf or the world) is nothing in effect but a mad man, running to his own deftru&ion in lofing his foul and eternal life, when he feemeth moft to gain the world, therefore he is called the fool. 2. It is not heeded by God what a mans mouth faith of God, or of himfelf, but what his heart faith, The fool bath faid inbis heart. 3. It is not the word, or outward profeflion, which truely doth exponc the heart, but the current of a mans life anda&ionss for here tt is proved, that the heart is full of Athcifme , by this, that they are corrupt in their converfation y and do Abominable mrfe* 4. God is onely the right Judge of regeneration and unrcgencration, and the onely true fearcher of the heart:

Its

Irs he who loofah down from kuvcn , to fee if any of the Sotit cfmtn, or any in the ftate of nature, have any wifdome in them , oraffe<ftion3frcr God : ifa:yofthem h<ve imderftan-dingy or do fe\ After God : For be that dotn not leek God, bath no underftanding , nor principle of Spintua' life in him. 5. Wbatfoever may be the odds among unrenewed men, Tome more, fome leffe grofle in their outbreaking, yet God pro-nounceth of them ail , that they are all of them gone out of the way, to wic of holinefle and happinefle , they are altogether be-come filthy, that is, all their aftions flowing forth from their corrupt hearts a*e vile and ioathfome in God* fight , and they are all in one rank in this, there is nove of them that doth good | none of them being unreconciled to God , door can do any thing at a! 1 commanded of (j°d > as commanded , from right principles , and for right ends.

Verf. 4. Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge ? who eat up my people as the] eat bread* and call not upon the Lord.

5. There were they in great feat : for God is in the generation of the righteous.

6. You have Jhamed the ccunfel of the poore • be~ caufe the Lord is his refuge.

In the next place he corrifortcth the people of Godjlivin^ in today of the vihble Churcb 3 with the unrenewed multitude. Firft, by this, that the Lord doth plead the caufe agaiuft the ungodly. Whence learn. That the nature of all unrenewed men, is to bear deadly enmity againftthofe that are really Gods people, and delight to undothe godly, as contemners of alt that live noc as they do. They eat up my people M ibey do bread, fai:h the Lord. 2. The Lord owns the^uarrell, and wrongs done to the godly, as done to him, in wbomloevsr his image is hated or perfecuted. They tat upmy people, faith he. 3. The caufeleffe hatred of the godly is.amoft unreasonable thing, and argueth admirable ftu-pidity in wicked men, who maligne the innocent, by whofe life they are admonifhed of their duty , and taught the way to felicity- Have all the workers of iniquity nolyiowledgef 4.Ttfe mif-kenning of God , and working of iniquity,ani perfecting of the godly, are three conjunct properties of a man in nature^

F i tioi

not reconciled to God> For to be worltfrs of iniquity* And cater* up of Gods people as bread, and not ailing on god, arc put for the marks and properties of the lame fore of ungodly men.

Upon the challenge of the ungodly the Prophet interretb the conlequence of certain and fad judgements to follow on the wicked, becaufe God is nearly concerned in the quarrell of his people. Whence learn, 5. The persecution of piety in the godly, provoketb God to mrli&thc moft fearrull, and moft tuddain judgements. For therein fpecially were the ungodly put to fear* where they bad vo fear at all. 6. The near conjunction wbicn God hath with the godly, is the reafon of the greatneile of the fn of persecution of them for god line ffc : for here it is ^iven forar:afon 3 why there they were in fear, why they were to tremble when God came to avenge the oppreflion of th? godly, which the wicked feared never to be queftioneds Bccauft God u in the generation of the rigbteout, 7. Perfecting of a man for piety, were it but in Jelling ac a man, or mocking ot him for piety, is the turning of piety, which is a mans glory, into a matter of reproach to him j and a means ro drive him .ind others from fecking of God, Ton have fl)*mid the conn fell, nr re-tolu-ion oftbepoor> when you icorn 3 becaufe he hath made ©jd his refuge.

Vcr.7. O that the [Ovation of Ifraelwzxz come out ef Sion ! when the Lord bringeth bac\^ the captivity cfhif people, Jacob /ball rejojee, and Ifrael Jbdil be glad.

The next comfort of the godIy> is from tbc hope of Chrifts coming, in whom the red«*eiling of chi* evil 1, and ofa'l other, is to be found, for whole coming he wilv.th. It is true, the lending of deliverance unro the diftreifed people of God in Saulsurnti by bringing David to the Kingdom^ was worthy to be wiihed for: but this could net Mil up the meafure of the wifh here (tirred up by the Spirit. Therefore we muft look to the lubltance in Chrift, in whom this wifh and prayer hath full accompUihment, which in efFe&is, 0 that Chrift the Saviour of ffracl were come out of Sion. And this fame wilh clo-icth the hfty third Pfalm alfc5 where falvations of ifraelin the plurallmumber is fetdown, tonote the perfection of (alvaiion which cometh oncly by Chrift, at whom the very forme of tbc H brew wilbing doth, look as pointing at the perfon which mal

dye

give all fort of falvarion to Ifrael, Wbo JI)all give ; Now there wai a coming of Chrift in the flefh unto Sion, foretold by the Spirit, Zacb.9.9. and this is prciuppolcd in this wiiTi, for Chrift muft be in Sion before he come out of it. But not by this coming were fo many Israelites faved as here is wiihed for: not by this coming was the body of ifrael brought bick horn captivity here propbcfied. There is alio //i*. 2.?. 1 coming of Chrift om of Sion to the Gentiles, and this coming is prcfup-pofed here, before that ifraels captivity be looted. There is J/ai.50.20. compared with T[om. 11.26. a coming out of Sion for the bringing falvation to the body of the now mif-beheving Nation of the captive ifraclites, lym* in captivity, icatrcred a-mong the (jcntiles', and this is directly prayed for, and longed after in this place. O that the falvation of ifrael were come out of Sion y even the time when the Lord (hall bung back the cap ivi-ly of his- people. Paul,T{om. 11.26. calkin tins tbeBdieveis coming out of Sion, in regard of tbe time when, and the condition wbcrien Chrift is to find the ifraclites, to wit, out of Sion, out among the Cjentiles, fcattered among tbe Gentiles, ' to whom Chrift came when bee left fudea* And Ifaiah callethit a coming to Sion^ in veipcCt of rhe benefit 10 be tiven to the %ex»s> who are defigned ore by Sion. Whence /came, i.Cbrift is the falvation oi Sion, borh figuratively ant/ properly called fo, as well before became, as after ; for here he is looked on as the Salvation of Ifrael) in whom all our falvation, tfcxvs or GenitleSy is founded. 2. Whofoever ieeth bim, ('from how far oft foever) he cannot chufe but long for a further mani-fefta r ionof him, for perfecting of the bleffednefTe of his people, 0 that tbe falvation of Ifrael were come out of Sion I $. It was revealed to the Prophets, that Chrift was io come to the Church of tbe $ews 9 and from thence to manifeft himfelfe co the G entiles,z^ing offthe Israelites for a time, fcattering roem among the Gentiles, and then to come about again towards the •fews in their fcattciing and captivity, wirhcut cafting off of the Gentiles, and this laft turn is in the Prop hers eye, and aimed at by the Spirir, when he wifhetb that tbe falvation of Ifrael •were come out of Sion. 4. It was revealed alfo to the Prophets, and to David, that before the conftitution of the Church of Ifrael (hould be freed from the perfecution ot domt ftick c-nemies, vexing the hearts of tbe godly 5 or delivered from fuch mens power, as are defcribed, vcrf 1, 2, 5. that fore plagues were to be poured out upon that people, and that the Ifraclites

F 3 were

were to be driven out of their own Land, and led in captivities^ as the words here, and Pfrfm 5$. 6. doimportj for they who were to be brought back from captivity after Chrifis coming out of Sion unto the Gentiles y are prefuppofed to be in captivity, when Chrift comah to give falvation unto them. 5. Be-caufe of the large pouring out of the Spirit upon the body of the converted Jews or 1[ratines, when the time /hall come of their turning Cbriftians, prophefied of here, and I/d*. 59. 20. and 2£?wi. n.2^26. as their mourning in repentance for the injuries done by them, and their progenitors, to Jefus Chrift, (hall bee as the mourning of Hadadrimmon iy in the velley of Megiddon, Zacb.iz. io,ii. So here, joy in Jefus Chrift reconciled unto them, frull be greater then any that ever that Nation faw, whether in Davids time, or Solomons : for then ibe Lord jhall bring back tbe captivity of bis people, here prophefied of, to be under the time of the Gofpel, (whether by looting their captivity bodily as well as fpirituall, whether they (hall return to their own Land or not, or what rhe Scripture doth fpeak to this purpofe, his place is not for the determining of it.) Then Jacob fhalrejoyce, and Ifraet jhal be glad } when the Saviour of Ifraeljbal come om of Sion to them.

PSAL. xv.

cA Pfalm of David.

The Prophet for diftinguifhing of the true members of the Church from thofe who were only outwardly profeffors, asketh of the Lord, how the one may be known from the other, ver.i. and receiveth no anfwer to the queftion, ver. 2,3,4,5.

Vei\ I • T Ord y who fball abide in thy Tabernacle ?

I j vphofh:ill dwell in thy holy hill}

The qucihon is propontu about the marks of the fincere believers, the tow Covenanters wuh God, the true Profeffours of true religion, -,ru they arc who mail not be caft out from the fociecy of Gvds true Church. Whence learn, 1. The Tabernacle pi:chwd by &lofes y r.nd the hill of Sio?tj where the Tabernacle

bernaclc'and the Temple was at laft Ceded, was 3 Type of the true Church, and of Communion with God in Chvift the Me-diatour, a type of God incarnate^ dwelling, andexercifingall bis offices in his Churchy and of the heavenly condition of his people^ called out of the worlds and lifted up toward bim, de-iigned under the name of Gods Tabernacle^ and Gods holy bill. 2. Some of thofe who profeffeto be of his fellowihip, may bethruft out from it a time, and delivered from all communion with God, when other fome fhall remain in this ftate, and not be removed. For the queftion is moved^ What are the matksof the members of the Church invifible t and who they are wbojhall abide in Gods tabernacle, and dwell in bk holy hill? 3. Only the Lord who fcarcheth the heart, can put the difference between the true and the falfe 5 for this caufe the que-ftion is proponed to God, Lord, who Jhall abide in thy Tabernacle?

Ver.2. He thatwalketh uprightly, and worlptb righ-teoufnejfe, andfpeakjth the truth m his heart.

3. He that backbiteth not with his tongue y nor doth evil I to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach a-gainfl his neighbour.

4. In whofe eyes the vile perfon is contemned^ but he honour eth them that fear rfcLoR D ; he thzifwea-^ reth to his own hurt, andchangeth not,

5. He that putteth not out his money to ufury^ ncr ta\eth reward again ft the innocent. He that doth thefe things, Jhril never be moved.

The Lord anfwereth in the reft of the Pfalm, by (hewing the fruits of faith manifeited in obedience to Gods commands^ both morall and judicially in the fight of all men : The fince-rity of which faith and truth were^o be certainly known to God only, and to the confeience of every mans felf j which was fufficienttofatisfictbequeftion, quieting and comforting of the upright ones. Whence learn, 1. That fincere indeavour of univerfall obedience in a mans convcrfation, is a fruit and evidence of true faith, and a mark of a true member of the Church invifible> He walfatb uprightlyy and doth rigbteoufnejje. 2. Another fruit of true faith, is confeience making of what a man fpea-keth, ruling his tongue fo, as his heart and his tongue do agree

F 4 in,

in the truth: he (pejketb the truth from the hart. J. A third fruit of unfained faith, is making confcicnce in all his dealings a that he harm not his neighbour, neither in his name, nor in his perfon, nor his goods, and making confciencc not to receive readily aialfe report of his neighbour, when it is devifed by ai.other, He bae\{bitetb not with his tovguc, nor dttb evill to his neighbour, nor tafath up a reproach againft bis neighbour. 4. A 1 u :ih fruit of found faith, is the low eftimarion of any worldly excellency wherewith a wicked man can be bufied > to whom, add jugh the godly, according to duty, will give civill honour, as his place reguiretb, yet he counteth him a poor miferable man for all his honour and wealth, becaufe hee wa'ketb in a godUflc way: but where he feeth one that feareth God, he e-{tcemeth highly of him in his heart, whatfoeverexrernall ex-preffions thereof he find fit to give, becaufe of the honourable way of holineffe, wherein the godly walketh 5 for in bit eyes a vile perfon is contemned^ but be honouretb him that feareth the Lord. 5. A fifth fruit of found faith, is tender refpeft to the Name of God, and care to keep lawfu'i promifes, covenants, and oathes, whatfoever civill inconveniences may follow upon the ft rift keeping of them * y Though be [wear to bis own dmage>hecbatigetbnot. 6. A fixth fruit and evidence of faith, isdilpenling with commodity, when God by a fpeciall reafon calleth for (o doing, albeit other wayes a man might take rea-fonably more gain. Many of fnch fort of cafes do accrue in merchandife, and in ex3ding ot rents anddebrsj as circum-ftanccs may teach, when, and where God calleth for moft moderation 5 fuch was the judicial! difpenfing with commodity, put upon the Jews for loofing the yoke of a bought fervant, beinga Jca^ at the end of fix years; and quitting otboufes and lands bought from a 1 $cw at the year or ^ubik^ how dear fo-everi:coft the buyer; and nottaking ufury of a.?ew; wherein the $tw was privilcdged above men of another Countrey : for in all thefe three pircicularfij it was lawfull for the Jew to do otherwife with other coumrey-men, to wit, in buying a fervant from a ftranger, and not letting him loofe all bis dayes, and buying land from a ftranger of another countrey, and transmitting it to his own pofterity, and taking ufury of a ftranger ? according to the rate which was acknowledged on sll hands to ftand with equity ; which commodity if an Israelite did notdif-penfe with toward an Ifraclitc, it made him fhort of this commendation oi the true Ifraclite, yboputtetb vox bU moneytoufu-

rie.

rje. 7. The fcventh fruit and evidence of faith, is frtedcme from briberie, withlove of juftice, which the believer will not pervert, to the detriment of the man who hath a good caufe, for whatloever bud or reward man can give him. This is the upright mans lait property^ He tafctb not a reward agaviji the innocent.

Having numbred out the evidences of a found convert and true believer, who fhall never be thruft out of Gods fellowship, he concludetb, That vbafctver dotb tbcfc tbingi, or ftudieth to do thcm 3 Jhatt never be moved. That is, be that fhall evidence bis faith in God, by a fincere indeavour to do the duties of the firft and fecond table of Gods Law, fhali not be removed from Gods houfe, bur (hall abide in his Tabernacle, and dwell in Sion, in the iellowfhip of C/od and his faints for ever.

PSAL. XVI.

DAithum of David.

David inthisPfalme, finding himfelf in the ftateof grace, prayeth for prefervation in generally in relation unco all dangers, and evils of body and foul, and whatfoever other evill, from which a godly man, with allowance of Gods word might pray to be preferved. His only reafon to affure himfelf to be heard, isbecaufe he had gotten grace to truft in God. The fincerity of which faith in God,he proveth by fundry evidences,, ver. 1,2,3,4. In the fecond place he climbeth up to the comfort and joy of believing ; And all the grounds of joy whereupon he goeth , do ferve 60th to confirme his faith, and to give him aflii-rance of the granting of his prayer, vet/. 6,7, 8,9,10,11.

Ver. 1,

PSAL. XVI.

Vcr. i. TyReferve me, O GOD : for in thee do Jl If tit my truft.

He findeth bimfclf in a good condition, and all the prayers beprayetb,is in one word,for.prefcrva:ion. Whence learn, i.As our being, livings and moving naturall, and our bringing into thefpiritualland bkffcd eftate of grace, is of the Lord, fo is our keeping therein of the Lord alfo., and our duty is to acknowledge God in both, and to live unto, and pray for bis upholding ofus> and not to leanc upon our own wifedome, fbrengtb, or holinefs; For David teaeheth fo to do. Trc-fervemeO God. z. The grace of God having granted to us lively faith, fctlcdonGod, is a fuffictent ground of our hope, and afluranceto perfevere, and to be ftill preferved, for this is thereafon whereby David confirmeth his prayer, Forinthecdo 1 fut my truft.

Ver. 2. O my foul, thou hafi [aid unto the Lord, Thou art my Lord \ my goodnefs extendeth not to thee :

3. But to the faints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.

Becaufc be hath made bis faith in God, the reafon of bis hope of perfeverance, and of his having his prayer granted, he pro-veth the fincerity of his faith by five Evidences or fruits thereof. Whence learn, i. The firft folid evidence of the fincerity offaving Faith, is the teftimony of theconfeience, bearing witnefs to a man, that he hatb layd hold on the covenant of grace, and bath chofen God for his proteftour, and mafter, and that he isrefolv'd to depend upon God;, and to ferve him as David did* faying, 0 my foul, thou haft fail unto the Lord>thou art my Lord. 2. Another evidence of the fincerity of faith, is renunciation of all confidence in a mans own works, and the rejecting of all conceit of any poffibility of merit at Gods band, who cannot be profited by our goodnefs 5 for we have what we have of him, and can never put an obligation on him by any thing which we can do. My goodnefs doth not extend to thee. 3. A third fruit and evidence of faith, is love and kindnefsto the godly, and bellowing of our own goods for fupplying their need, joyned with a high eftimation of their precioufnefs, above the godlefs world, and with pieafure taking in their fellowfliip: fo reckoned the prophet, frying, my

good*;

goodnefs extendetb not to tbee, but to the Saints that ate on the tar thy and to the excellent , in whom is all my delight: where, by chc way* lee us obferve, He knew no faints to whom he could be profitable, fave onely the Saints who are upon the earth.

Ver.4. Their forrows (hall be multiplied> that haften after another god: their drink-offerings of blond, will I not offer* nor take up their names into mj lips.

A fourth fruic and evidence of faith, is, the hating of falfe rcligion 3 and counting all followers of idolatry, or worfhip of another god, then the true God, to be accurfed 5 fuch a ba-: ting of falfe religion as is accompanied with the difcountenan-, cing, open difcrediting, and abhorring of all idoll fervice, I as David exprefleth here in the whole verfe. Wbencelearne % 1. Men as they are naturally averfe from following the true God, and the true religion, fo are they naturally bent to all idolatry, and zealous in following idols* and any falfe religion. They haften after another god. z. The more men do haften after felicity, in the way of idolatry, they have the worfe fpeed. For tbeir [orrows Jhall be multiplied that baftcn after another God. 3. The more madly the world run after idolatry, the more (hould the faithfull mm teftifis his abominating thereof, zsDavid doth. Their drin^-offerings of blood will 1 notoffer y norta\eup their names into my lip. He cannot fpeak of them without difdain.

Vcr.5. The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance y and ofmj enp: thou maintainefi my lot.

A fifth fruit and evidence of faich in God, is delight, and fatisfa&ion in, and refting on God, 3S al-fufficient for the believers compleat happineffe, as the whole ver/e holdeth forth. iVbenceleirn, 1. The believer hath as fure right unto God, as any man hath to the patrimony whereunto he is born ; or any Tribe ever had to his ftme hi the Land of Canaan. The Lord u the portion of bk inheritance, z The Lord is the believers lot and (hare, when the world are feeking, fome one, fome another temporail good 5 The Lord, and the light of bis countenance, is the believers compleat goods whatfoever meafure of earthly things is given to the godly befide, Levies portion is his portion- The Lord is the portion of bk inheritance. $. The Lord is the believers livelihood, and the furnifher of his daily bread, He tithe portion of bis cup. 4. The Lord giveth bim-

felfc

felfetotbe believer for his felicity, as be alfo maincaineth the believer in the right unto, and pofl'eflionof bimfelf: He maintained bis lot: and foj as the believer comecb to his right he hath unto God, noc by his owne pnrcbafe, but by fpirituall birth-rigor, as a child ot Chritt by faith, or by free donation of this inheritance, received of God by faith; fo he may claim to God, and enjoy the poffcffionof God, as firmly as his in, hcrhance^ as fully as if God were his particular property and portion -, as fmttly as his daily food, and the portion of his domeftick cup : and with as great quietnejfc andfecurity,%s the immediate vaflal of the mighcieft Monarch, being willing, a-ble, and ingaged mod deeply to maintain his lot.

Vet.6.The lines are fallen unto me in pleafant places^ yea, I have a goodly heritage.

Inthefecond place heclimbeth up to the joy of faith, arising from the certain perfwalion, and prefent lenfe of bis being in the ftite of graces The reafons or grounds of his joy are fix, Thefirft reafonof bis joy, is founded upon the properties xnd (elf-lufficiency of God, compared to a goodly and pleafant heritage, which wanteth no commodity within ic felf. iVhenct learn y i. PIcafure and profit, and all commodities of life are abundanily to be found in God$6c whatfocver can be reprefented by any goodly herita^c,lying in moft pleafant places,is buca fha-dow of what is to befonnd in him,as the companion taken from lower rbifi£s hereimporteth. z. The more the believer con-fidereth what the Lord is, and what are his perfections, and tvfnt is the believers own inrereil: in God, the more is he fatif-fied,and ravifhed in the beholding of God, and his own felicity in him No wonder therefore if David fay, for the meafu' ring out of this fhare to him, that bit lines are fallen out to him in pleafant placesy&c. 3. Toe believe* hath liberty to appro. priate God in am inner co him'dfe, and in coroparifon with the (hare of the worldlings to preferre his own portion above all others: This dorh David, when he calleth God his *wnpleafant places , and bk own heritage.

Ver,7. / Will blelfe the Lor A who hath given me eounfel: my reins alfo inftrntt me in the night feafon.

Tbefccond reafon and ground of joy, is bcc^uie God hath perfwaded him to believe in the ZMcfJub, or thrift to come, as is clear by the next verfe, and that God had takm the directing of bim. Whence learn y 1. As ic is the work of God only,tu

give

give effe&uall counfel to any man to believe in Chrift j Sj alfoebe way of perfwafion of a foul to truft in God, is away of working, proper only to God > for it makech the men fo free an agent, in tbe ad of believing^ as if Gods work were counfel only, and the work of a&ive perfwafion fo invincible, as the work is effectually wrought, and infallibly : for be calleth the beftowing of faving faith^or grace to confent to the covenant of grace, a giving counfel: He bath given me counfel. z. Tbe glory of truiting in God, is not a matter of gloriation of the believer, in his own difpofing ot himfelf,but a matter of thanksgiving to God, and glorifying of him, who fivetb the counfel to believe, and maketb tbe counfel ro him effrctuaii: For JPi-vid faith, 1 mil blefie tbe Lord who hath given me counfel, to wit, effectually > for faith is not of cur felte, it is tbe gift of God* wherein flax'animous power and voluntary confent are fweetly joyned together. $. This mercy of powerfully pcrfwading a foul to make choice of God, to clme covenant with him, and to truft in him, doth put a perpetuall obligation ot thankfgiving unto God upon the believer, to snake him lay in all time coming, and for ever, I will ble(fe tbe Lord, who bath given me counfel* 4. With the gift of faving faiths or perfwaiive counfel to. believe in God, is joyned the fwcet guiding and directing of the Lords Spirit, how to order the wayes of tbe believer; For hereinftru&ion of him in theni^bc feafon, is joyned with the former OKrcy,and is tmde a reafon of ihankfgiving,and blefsing of God. For bee addeth, My reins alfo JbaU inflrucf me in tbe night feafon. 5. The framing of tbe will, defiic, appetite, affedons, inclinations, thou^nrs , and fecret mediations, is foinwad, fecrft and deep a work, as tbe Spirit of C^°d thinks . good to cX pre fie this bis giving discretion fecrctly to David, in the terms of the teaching of the reins, becaufe ttuy are the bid-deft parts of the body, and ueareft to the back of any of tbe inward rtcble parts j and becaufe of tbe narure of the reins., which have much affinity with tbe affc&ions, and have for their office the difcrctive purging of the blood, the natural furniture of life, My reins alfo inftruft me in tbe night feafon. Ver. 8.1 have fet the Lordalwajes before me: becaufe he is at my right hand y I /ball not be moved.

The third reafon, and ground of joy, is the gift of the grace of God, making him alwayes keep his eye, (for getting af-fiftance, direction, and comfort,) to good purpofe, upon Je-fus Cbrift, the Lord, of whom cbis place is cxponed AS *• 2 ^ •

irhcna

Whence learn, i. The duty of tbe believer, and the way for him to have and retain joy in the Lord, is to fix the eye of faith alwaies, in all eftates, on the Mediator, the promifed Mefiab, the Lord Jefus, for diredion, affiftance, comfort, and de-liverie. For this was Davids way, I have fet the Lord alway before my face. 2. Such as implore JefusChrift for all things in all eftates /hillbefure to have his effeduall p re fence nee r hand to help him in time of need- For be is at fuch a mans right bandy at aU times. $. Faith, kept in excercife by em-ploring of Jefus Cbrift,may have affurance of pcrfeverance, and enjoying conftantiy tbe ftate of grace, what-ever alterations* and commotions come, their ftate fhall ftand fixed* theyfhall ftand in graces for upon this ground the prophet faith, Ijbdll* never be moved.

Ver. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, andmy glory rejoyceth ; my fiejh alfojhallrefi in hope.

A fourth reafon of joy abounding in his heart, and breaking forth in his words, is his victory over death, and the grave, by faith in Jefus Chrift. Whence kirn, 1 Faith m Chrift is able not only to give peace, that paffeth understanding, but' alto to fill the heart with joy, and to make the tongue, which is a mans glory, above all other creatures, fometirhe tobieak forth in expreffions of joy, for therefore faith he, my heart U glad and my glory rejoyceth. 2. So great vidory over death and the grave, is gotten by faith in Jefus Chrift, that a believer can lay down his body in the grave, as in a bed, to reft it there, in hope of the refurredion, and here an inftanceand example for ir, My flejh alfo Jhall reft in hope.

Ver. 10 For thou wilt not leave my foul in hell, neither wilt thou [nffer thine holy One to fee corruption.

Tbe fifft reafon of his joy, is the affurance of t|be refur-redion of Jefus Chrift his head, through whom he hopeth to be raifed in bis own order and time. Whence learn, 1. A believer is fo neerly joyned with Chrift, that he may give w> him the ftyles of what is neareft and deareft to him, and call him his very life and fouly as here David faith of Chrift, who behoved torifcagain, Ad.2. 2?. Thoumltnot leave my foul, or my life in grave : and by this means he alfo is affured of his own refur-redion in due time 5 for our life and foul is bound up in Chrift: Our Life is hid with God in Chrift/pecially in refped

of

of that wherein he ftanckcb in our room„>fuch as bis differing, ri-fingjrcig'ningasour Surety and Atturncy.^.Tbe body of Chrift noc onely was to rife from tbe deacb but aifo could not fo much as putrifie in tbe grave : For of Chtift he faitb , Thou wilt not fujfer thy holy One to fee corruption.

Ver. 11. Thou ftilt jhtvp me the path of life : in thy prefence there is life, at thy right hwd thtie are pieafures for evermore.

The laftground and reafon of his jov, is the aflurance bee hath of blefkdneffeandofetcrnalllife : Whence learn , i. The believer who is fixed by faitb on Cbriit, may be affured of bis perfeverance in tbe way leading to life : Thou wilt Jbew nit the my to life : that is, thou wilt point out the way that I mould walk in, thou wilt go alongft with me 5 and make me effectually finde thy help, to walk in it. z. The fruition of Gods immediate prefence is noc like tbe joyes of this world, which neither do feed nor fill a man : but when we (hall enjoy Gods prefence fully, we fliall have full contentment, andcompleat fell— citie: For in his prefence is fulncjfeof joy. And the felicity of beleevers is not like tbe pieafures of this world,, which pafle away fuddenly as a dream: but it endurecb for ever: At his right hand are pieafures for evermore.

p s A L. XVII.

A Prayer of 'David.

This Pfalm, according to the Infcription thereof, is a Prayer of Davids, mixed with fuadry reafons for helping : wherein firft, he cravech in genera!!, juftice in the controverfie between him and his oppreffors, ver. 1,2,3,4. Secondly, more fpecial-ly, he requefteth for a wife carriage of himfelf under this exercife, vtt/f 3 6- Thirdly, prayech for protection and prefervation from his enemies, ver. 7,8,p,io,n, 12. Fourthly, for difappointment to his enemies, and for delivery of himfelf from

them

So PSA L. XVIL

them, ver. ig > 14. and clofet h comfortably, in confidence of a good anfwer , and hope of fa-tisfadory happinefle, ver. 15.

Vera.TT Ear the right ,0 Lord, attend unto my JL Xcrjygive ear unto my prayer that gocth not out of feigned lips.

2. Let my fentence come forth from thy pnfence : lev thine eyes behold the things that are equall.

3. ThoH haft proved mine heart,then haft vifited me in the night,thou haft tryedme i and fhalt finde nothing : I am purpofed that my mouth fhall not tranf-greffe.

4 Concerning the workj of men, by the ivord of thy lips I have k^pt me from the paths of the Deftroyer.

The firft pare of the prayer is unco God,as a ri^hrcou^ }udge, to hear hUpiainc, and co decide in his favour, according to bis juft caufe, and rigteous carriage in relation to his enemies. Whence learne, 1. As righteous men are fubjed unto injuries and oppreffions^as well others are, and are o\iven by trouble to feeit relief of God : So, in this cafe, it is a fpeciail xom-for-, to have God a righteous judge to hear them, and a righteous ciujeto bring before him, that the man may fay, Hew the right 0 Lord. z. The confeience of earneft and boneft dealing with God, in the fingkneik of our heart in prayer, is a gocd reuon to helpe our faith in prayer, when wee may fay j We cry, and pray y not with feigned lipps. 3. When wee are unjulily condemned by men , we may appeale to God, and call the appellation, and feek and expect a more juit fentence pronounced and executed by God. We may fay, Let my fentence come forth from thy prefence. 4. Although men call our true defences, which we make againft falfe Libels, and doe not refped equity; yet God will take notice of che whole proceffe, his eyes ml behold things that are equal, z. Sincerity of heart giveth boldneflc to a man to prefenc bimfelfe to God, to be examined, after chat the confciencc in its private tryall of the nuns carriage coward ths adverfary* bath in the light of God abfolvedhim J as here the Propbec, inrelatian co his carriage toward che oppreffor, doch fpeak to God, thou

haft

haft tryed me in the night, and haft found nothing. 6. Sincerity of carriage for time by-paft, muft be joyned with a purpofe °* flnceriry in time coming, ttut he may/fay with 'David, inre* Lit ion to his part, 1 am purpoftd that my mouth flialt not tranfgrejjh 5 thatis, nortoipeak a wrong vvoid againft him* 7. Naturall mens manner of dealing, when they are injured, is to recompenfe evifl for evil I. For the wor\s of men art to follow the paths of the deftroyer. 8. There is no way to keep the children of God from thefe paths o^ the deftroyer, when they are provoked to injuries, excepc,in the fear of God, they look to what Gods word dire&eih them to doe- Thus did David efcape an ill courfe, when his nature might have tempted him to it. By the word of thy lips have 1 \ept me from the paths oj the deftroyer.

Ver.. ^. Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footfleps flip not.

6 I have called upon thee , for thou wilt hear me, O God : incline thine ear unto me, and he are my fpeech.

The fecond pare of the prayer, wherin he requefteth for grace to be kept ftill in a righteous and holy way; Whencelearne , I.The moftholy man,thou^h he haveftood fait formerly,is moft feared to offend,and moft (ufpicious of fcimtclfe, and moft tat-neft with God to beholden up, that he fall not in time to come* and giveth all the glory of his (landing in a good caufe , unto GoJ,as is evidently holden forth in this petition of David^Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footftepsjlip not. z. The beft way to have deliverance from, and vi&ory over adverfaries 3 is tokeepaftraightcourfe of carriage in the fear of God, Qoing, inGodspaths, that is, as God bath prefcribed our way in his word. $. Our prayer fliould be fuch, and foputup, as we may be fure to be heard 5 and when we have prayed unto God, according to his will, we may be confident of a good an-fwer with David, That he will incline his ear, and hear our fpeecb. 4. Confidence to be heard,muft not flacken our hands in pray-ttj but hearten us to pray, as this example teacheth us.

Ver. 7. Shew thy marvellous loving ktndneffe, O thou that favefi by thy right hand^ them which put their truft in thee, from thofe that rife tip againf! them.

G S. Keep

%% P S A L. XVII.

8. Keep me as the Apple of the eye : hide me under thefhadow of thy wings.

The third part of his prayer, is, for a mercifull prote&ioq, and prefervation from his enemies- Whence letrne, i. The Beleevermuftholdhiseyein time of dangers and ftraits, ef-peciaUy upon Gods good will and kindneffe, as a counter-bal-lance of all the malice of men: and here,cbough his ftraits were never fo great, he (hall read a poffibility of wonders for his delivery, as here is feeni Shew thy marvellous loving lyndneffc O lord. Befide common favors,God hath other mercies in keeping for his own, andthofeare marked even with fame wonderful-neffe, either in the time,or manner,or meafure, or mean, or fomc other refped. i. The Lords power and his office of Saviour/hip, and hiscpnftanr manner of dealing for beleevers,are the pillars of the pcrfwfion of help to be bad in God. So reafons Davtd&y-ing,0 thou tbatfavejl with thy right hand them which put their trufl inibee.: for Gods Nature, Chrifts Office, and his manner of dealing, are equivalent to promifes, when they are looked unto by a beleever. 3. Such as trouble unjuftly them, of whom the Lord hath taken the maintenance, do in a fort engage God to be their party, and to defend his fervants, for they rife up againft not only Gods fervants, but againft God who faveth by his right banj 4. The care God hath of his poor children, that depend upon him, \s unfpeakable , and the tender love he bearech unto them 3no one limilitude canexpreffe, as plurality of fimilkudes joyned here,, doe give evidence 5 for Gods care of them is com-parable to mans care oftheapple of bis eye $ Gods love to them is comparable to the love of the Bird-mother toward her young ones,whom me warraierh,& hideth under the Jhadow of her wings. O wonderfull goodneffe, and mfedorn of God , who admitteth Himfclfe to be compared to fuch low fimilttudes, that he might lift up our faith above all objedions of mif-belief.

Vet\ 9. From the wicked thatoppreffe me y from my daily enemies, who compare me about.

10. They are enclofed in their own fat: with their mouth they fpeak^ proudly.

11. They have now compared us in our fieps , they have'fet their eyes bowing downe to the earth.

i z. Lil^e as a Lion that // greedy of his prey, and as

it were ayoung Lion lurking infecret places.

The reafon of his prayer, is taken from the deadly malice of his enemies, v. 9. from their pride, v. 1 o. from their confidence, v.i 1.from their beaftly cruelty^. \i.lVhencc learn,!. The enemies of Gods people are ordinarily wicked, oppreffors? deadly enemies to them, proud of their wealth and power, boafters , crafty Foxes, cruel Lions, and the more of tbefe evils doe break forth againft Gods people, the more (hould the danger be layd before God, not for information of him J but for the exoneration of our griefs, tentations, fears and dangers before God* and laying of our care upon him : and fo much the more alfo is vengeance on the enemie, and the delivery of the godly near hand, and hopes ofanfweringthe prayers put up'againft them, are the more made certain, as the ufc of the wickedneffe of the enemie made by the Prophet here doth teach.

Ver. 13. Arife, O Lord, difappoint him, cap him down : deliver myfvttlfrom the wickfd t which-is-t^jr Sword :

14. "From men which are thy hand, 0 Lord , from men of the world, which have their portion in this life, andwhofe belly thou filleft \fc/'r& treafure : they are ful of children, and le Ave the reft of,their fubftancero their babes.

The Fourth part of the prayer is,for fruftrating the intention of the enemy, and fetting the fupplicant fre.e from the danger.

1 Whence lexrne, 1. When danger is moft nigh , God is more nigh, and he can fliortly interpofe himfelf, to the overturning of the defigne of the enemy, and to the ruine of the enemy him-felfe: he can quickly arife, and difappoint b\m> andcaft bim down.

j 2. The power of the enemy ftandeth in the Lords imploying

I of him y he cannot ftrike, except God ftrike by him $ therefore he is called Cjfods fword. 3. The fhorteft way to be fafe from what the wicked can doej is prayer to God, to over-rule him.

1 Therefore faith David, Deliver my foul from the wicked, which is thy fword. 4. The Lord ordinarily for execution of wrath, and for bard tryals, and troubles of the godly, doth in bis pre-

I vidence make ufe of the wicked s deliver we, faith he, from men which are thy hand. 5. The wicked neither have,nor doe feek any felicity^ but what may be had in this life, they are men of this

G z world?

wrld, and.bxve their portion in tbk life , they need look for nq more good then they finde in the world, and tbat is., a poor, and lorry happineffe. 6. The belly full of fenfuallluft, and rareft dimes,and belt meats which Gods ftore-houfc can afford, is the height of the happineflc of a poor rich worldling.In bis ownper-fonjit is all that God giveth him for his portion 7 ', and which the Fool bath chofen, even the filling of his belly with Gods hid trea-fure,ot of fome rare mear, which meaner people cannot have, and therefore it is called Gods hid treafure. 7. All the felicity which t6e worldling can have, in the point of honour and riches to himfelfe, and his poftericy, is worldly wealth, while hee liveth , and a number of children to enjoy his wealth after him, whether they fball live and inherit it, whether they fliall prove wife men or fools, be knowcthnot; this is his all; for in Gods favour he hath no intcreft ; heaven he hatb nothing to doe with 5 and at the heft, They are full of children and leave the reft of their fubftance to their babes.

Ver.15. As for ipe, I will behold thy face in righ-teoufneffe: 1 jhall be fatisfied , when I awake > with thy likeneffe.

He cioferh his prayer comfortably, with the hope of true felicity, in fellowfliip with God. Whence learnc,i. In the midft of whatfoever worldly trouble the godly can be in, his hope is far better then the worldly mans poiTeffion > and the Prophet here, for thiscaufe doth preferre bis prefent condition* being in danger daily of his life, to ail his enemies profpnity, faying, by way or oppefition, As forme, I will behold thy face* x The injoying of the prcfence, and fenle of the loving kindneffe of the Lord, is the felicity of the godly, in that mealure they attain ft; the hope whereof upholds the belveevers heart in the dark-eft times of trouble. As for me, faich he, / will behold thy face:*

3. The enjoying of Godis proper only unto the man juftified by Raich, and endeavouring to live righcecufly ; and it is ri*h-teoufneffc with God, that fucb a man be brought to the enjoying cf his hope. I will behold thy face in rigbtcoufneffe , faith he.

4. There is a flcep of deadneffe of fpiric, out of which the mining of (jotss loving countenance doth awakeajbeleever, and revive die fpiric of the contrite ones; and there is a fbep of deaui bodily, out of which the loving kiridnefle of the Lord Hull awake all his own, in the day of the refurrcdion , when he fUall fa change them into the firmlicude of his own holine'flc

and

and glorious felicity, as they (lull be fully contented for ever • and this fi:ft and fecond delivery out of all trouble* may every belcevercxpedand promise tohimfelfce* Ijballbcfarisficd&ben lamfe, with tby liieneffe.

PSAL. XVIII.

To the chief Mufician. A Pfalm of David, tbefervan of the Lord, who (p*k c mt0 % bz Lord the words of this fongjn the day rhac the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies , and from the hand of Saul. And he {aid.

David in thisPfalme, as a Type of Chrift, and fellow partaker of the fufferings of Chrift in his my-fticall members, and of deliveries and victories over his and their enemies, being now fetled in the Kingdome, praifeth God for his marvellous mercies, and as a Type of Chrift, he propheciech of the enlargementiand ftabibity of his own King-dome, and of Chrifts Kingdome, reprefenccd thereby; and firft obligeth himfelf thankfully to depend upon God, whatfoever enemies he lhaj! have to deal with T ver. i, 2, 3. Secondly, he gi-vetha feafon of his refolution, from the experience of rhe Lords delivering of him out of his deepeft diftrefies, ver. 4, 5. to ver. 19. Thirdly > He amplifieth this mercy, acknowledging that this was a fruit of his faith , and righteous dealing with his party adverfary ; the like whereof every beleever might expetf, as well as he for time comming, by rcafon of this bis bygon large experience, from ver.zo. to ver. 30. Fourthly, he prai-feth God in particular, for the experience he hath had in time bygone in warfare, and victories in battel, to ver. 43. Fifthly, As a Type of Chrift, he G 3 pre*

*

promifeth to himfclfe the enlarge merit of his own Kingdom, and prophefieth of the enlargement of Chrifts Kingdom among the Gentiles, for which he praifeth God unto the end of the Pfalme, ver* 43,44,45,46,47'43, 49, 5o. In the Infcriptiop, hetelleth the time, and occafion of his writing of this Song,**^^ learne, 1. That after long trouble , theXord will give his children reft at lad, one way or other , and deliverie from all tfceir enemies, as here is given to David, from Saul and all his enemies. 2. When the Be-leever getteth relaxation from trouble, hie (hould fet himfelf to glorifie God for his delivery , and give evidence of bis thankfulneffe, as T)avid doth in penning of this Song, when God delivered him. 3.It is a greater honour to be a real fervant of the Lord in any calling, then to have the honour of being a King, noc being his fervant: fo efteemed David when he made this Infcription , A Pfalme of David the fervant oj the Lord.

Ver. 1; X Will love thee^ O Lord, my firength.

JL 2. The Lord is my roc^ and my fortrefs,, and my deliverer: my Cjod, my (Irength in whom I will trufi, my buckler^ and the horn of my (alvation^ and my high tower.

3. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praifed: fo (ball I be favedfrom mine enemies.

In the firftpait of the Pfalm^ he fetletb bis refolution yet more to love God, to believe in him? and to worfhip him ftill in all difficulties* knowing by experience, this to be the way to be faved from all his enemies. If hence le/trn, 1. The chief fruit of faich, and end of C/ods mercies to us> is to grow in eftimation of 3 and affo&ion toward God; for fo doth 7)Avtt, faying? 1 will love thee, O Lord. 2. Whatfoever a believer ba.h need of, that will the Lord fupply 3 that will the Lord be himfclfe

felfeunto him according to his need, as here hee is David* ftrength in weaknefie, bis rock of refuge, when he ispurfucd* his fortretfejwhen beiieged •> and his deliverer when in txtrcam danger. 3. Experience or" the Lords faithrulnels, andkind-nefletous, fhould ton firm c us in the covenant of grace, and ftrengthen our refolution to believe in hm ; for upon this account DaiWcalletb the Lord, My God, my ftrength, in whom 1 will truft. 4. When the believer is yoked in fight with whac-foever adverfary, he fliall be fure to have defence in it, delivery out of it, andjprefcrvation after it. Thereforedoth David glory-in God, as a Buckler to beoppofed to all biowej, and tbrowes of darts from adverfaries, as chejforw of bis (alvMien, powerfully fighting for his delivery and vidory : And as bis high Tower* whence he might look down, and defpife all the wit, malice,and power of his enemies. 5. Prayer and invocation of God, fhould be alwayes joyncd with prayfes and thankfgiving^ and ufed a$ a means, whereby faith may ex:rad the good which it knoweth is in God, and of which he hatb made prcmife, 1 will call upon the Lord who is worthy to be pray fed. 6. Delivery, fafety, and peace may the believer exped, as the anfwer of his invocation upon God. Sofhallbcfafe from mine enemy.

Ver.4. The forrows ofdeath compared me , and the Jlouds of ungodly men made me afraid*

5. The forrovces of hell com faffed me about: the fnares of death prevented me,

Inthefecond part, he bringech forth his experience, where" by he was encouraged unto the forefaid duties. Whence learn s 1. Although the word of God be infinitely fure, and true in ic felfe, yet expeiie nceoftbe truth thereof, helpeth much to ftrengthen our griping thereof, 3nd toebcriih hope, as here is declared. 2. The believer in his cxeicife, may be put hard to it, and brought in fight of apparent peri living, of foule and body$ while men feek his life, God for a time hidetb his face : for 7)Avid felt deadly fears, and wXcream torment of foul 5 even tbeforrows of death, tbeforrows ofbelL and the fnares of death pHventinghim^ that be could not get free from them.

Ver. 6. In my diflreffe J called upon the Lord, and cried unto mj God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry cartie before him y even into his ears,

0 4 He

He hath fet down the ftrait he was in;, now he fettetb down the mean be ufecftobe relieved, to wic, prayer to God, as in covenant with him 5 and how he was mercifully heard through Cbrift. Whence learn, i. No ftrait is fuch but 3 God can deliver out of it, no cafe is fodefperate, as to make prayer need-, lefle or ufelefle : for 'David faith in bis deepeft diftreffc, 1 called on the Lord. z. It is neceffary not to give over, when help is delayed j yea, it is neceffary to grow more fervent, and for this end to lay hold on the covenant of reconciliation, and upon God in covenant with us : for hee addeth, 1 cried to my God. 3. By vertue of Chrifts facrifice, and bis interceflion, notice is taken of prayer gracioufly, and anfwer comech to the believer 5 for he addeth, He beard my voice out of bit temple, and my cry came before bim } even unto his ears 5 He pointeth at the Temple, in regard of the Ark, and other figures reprefencing Chrill in his interceflion for us in heaven.

Vct.yJThenthe earth/book and trembled-, the foundations uljQ of the hils moved and were fhaken y becavfe he Was wroth.

8. The re went up a fmoakjut of hid noflrils y and fire out of his motfth devoured, coles were kindled by it.

9. He bowed the heavens alfo, and came down : and darkneffe was under his feet.

10. And he rod upon a cheruby and didfiie ; jest, he didfiie upon the wings of the wind.

11. He made darkneffe his fecret place.- his pavilion round about him, were darkj^aters^ and thicks clouds of the skjes.

12. At the brightneffe that was before himy his hick^clouds paffed y hail-Rnnes and coales of fire.

j 3. The Lordalfo thundred in the heavens , anh the Higheft gave his voice , hail (tones and coales of fire*

14. Tea, he fent out his arrows, andfcatteredthem^ andhefljot out lightnings , and di[comfited them.

15. Then the chanels of waters were feen, and the foundations of the world were difcovered: at thy re-

buke^

&&kt t OLord, at the bla ft of the breath if thy m-firils.

The manner of his delivery is fee downc in comparative fpecches, alluding to the moft glorious manifeftations which ever God gave of himfelfc, inMounc Sinai, or in the dayes of $ojbua, or in the dayes of the fudges, or Samuel, all which glorious manifeftations of God to his people, David efteemeth co be re-a&ed in the wonderfulneffe of his delivery j fo as he thinks he may juftiy compare the wonders lhewn in bis pre-lervacion from bis enemies, to any of, or to all Gods former wonders, in faving his people. Whence learn, i. Although our naturall ftupiaity, unbdiefe, and enmity againft God, do extenuate tru works of Gods providence about his children* yet the believer fhouid look upon them with a fpirituall, and difcerning eye, and ihould fo fet them forth to others, as David doth here* 2. The moft fenfible mutations in heaven and earth, are not fo obferved by the blind world, as a loul illu. minate with fpirituall light, will obferve Gods fpirituall providence in his works towards his people, and toward himfelf, as here 'Davids example doth fhew. 3. The biftory of the Lords redeeming of his Church, fee down in Scripture, and by David, alluded unto, may be iecn in Gods particular dealing with his children, as very like to the fame, and as appendicles of the fame work repeated. This is imported in ^Davids re-calling comemory what is faid, Exod.9. 23,24. and 9.18. zfojb.io. 11, $tldg. 5. 4. 1tfdOT.12.18. concerning the Lords manife-fting ot bimfelfe. 4. The terribleneffc of (jod coming to judge his enemies, is a mitter of confolation to the believer, and of praife to God : as here is fet down.

Ver. 16- He fent from above , he tool^ we $ he drew me out of many waters.

17. He delivered me from mj ftrong enemy, and from them which hated me : for they were too ftrong for me.

18. They prevented me in the day of my calamity : but the Lord was my (lay.

19. He brought me forth alfo into a large flact: he delivered me, becanfe he delighted in me.

Now

Now he drawcth forth his delivery in lower companions, and more proper words, for the more clear capacity of the Church j to wit, that^C/od delivered him as one in perill of drowning, vsr. 16. As helping a weak man fromaftrong patty, w.i 7. As upholding a man circumvented* and ready to fall and fail, ver.iK. And fetting a man free from all dan-gerjiw.x?. Whence learn, 1. Our weakneffe in the time of our delivery* commendeth Gods power, as Davids delivery is magnified, becaufe it was as a drawing of him out of many waters, where hew as li\c to drown, z. Whether God ufe means or not in our deliveries, the work muft ever beafcribed to him alone. Hcfentfrom above, and uoJi me out. 3. Power of ad-verfaries will not hinder Gods helping band J he can, and doth ufually deliver his own from them that are too firong for them. 4. Afoulfenfibleof Gods merciful! work, cannot fatisfie it felfe with exprcflions about it. And as many new confiderati-ons as a believer hath of the circumftances of a mercy, as many new mercies doth he fee 5 therefore is iz that David repeater h the fame work of deliverance in moe and moe new cxpreffions, and cannot expreffe himfelfe in one word, with fatisfadion to himfelfe. $« When a man is inclofed, and prevented from e-fcaping out of trouble, faith would faiie, and then dafpairc mould follow, if God did not interpofe himfelfe, and did not furnifh ftrength in this difficulty. David being thus circumvented, faith, But the Lord was my flay. 6.The Lord doth not leave his work about bis own^til he perred it,but he complcateth their delivery ere he ceafe, and dotb crown his mercy with joy : To exprefs tbiSjPawffaitbjHe brought me forth alfo imo<a Urge place.

Vcr. 19. He brought me forth alfo into a large place : he delivered me, becaufe he delighted in me.

20. The Lord rewarded me according to my righ-ieoufneffe: according to the cleanneffe of my hands hath he recompenfed me.

21. For I have kept the wayes of the Lord % and have not -wickedly departed from my God.

22. For all his judgments were before me: and I did not put away his Statutes from me.

23. / was alfo upright before him ; and I kepi my felfe from mine iniquity.

14, Thtrei

24. Therefore hath the Lord recompenfed me according to my rigbteovfncjfe y ac cording to the righteouf 0 nejfeof mj hands in his eye fight.

The third part of the Pfalme , wherein hee goeth on to amplifie mercy fundry waves, and firft from the caufe of it, which is the mecr good will and love of God. Wbenct learn, 1. That the caufe of any mercy fhewn to us, is not to be found in us, but in Gods free love* He delivered me, becaufi bedeligbtedin me. 2. The belief of Gods love fweetnetb an4 commendeth the mercy exceedingly: The delivery here is greats but this word, becaufe be delighted in me, is far more fweec* verfio. There is another puint of amplyfying the mercy of hisprefervationand delivery, in the cleaving of his innocency* and freeing of him from the flinders «rf ungratitude , rebellion, treachery againft his Father in law, and his Prince, whidi was the fruit 06 another grace of God, given unto him, to wit, righteoufneffe and innocency, in relation to his enemies, verf* 20. and a ftudy to keep Gods commands,.vcr 21. and the fear of God faftening him to Gods StacureSj vzr. 22. and iineene and tender walking with God? and watching over the fin whka did moftbefec him, ver.13. where his delivery from his enemies, and clearing his innocency from calumnies, was a gracious rewards ver.zq. iVhevce learn, 1. In a good caufe? it is neceiTary we have a good carriage, left we marre cur caufe, and our com fort alfo: For David itudied righteoufneffe and clean* ncjfe ofbands,in relarion ro his enemies, when he was moft un-juttly perfected. 2. A godly behaviour in a good caufe Hull not want the frui:: F-r :he free love of God rewarded David according to bis righteoufneffe. 2. The cmfcience of a gcdlj behaviour in time of perfecution, is twice profitable : once under the criall and trouble, it do:h fupport: a^atn, after the delivery? the looking back upon it, di^.h comfort, as here is fhewn. 4. As we nVuid at all times take heeu to our conver-fation, fo in fpecull, when by perfecution we are troubled; for a good caufe ; For now we arc upon the triall cF our faitfi^ patience? wifedome, and other graces, as David was : and fhoulddo as he doth here. ?. We have fpeciali rules of good behaviour fet down in Davids example 5 firft, we mutt be furc to follow fuch wayes? as Gods word dach allow, that we may fay? I have £ep* the wayes of the Lcrd. Secondly, if in our infirmity, we be tnilcamed at any time, wemuft notperfift in a

wrong

wrong courfe, buc return to the way of Gods obedience? Th a * we may fay, 1 have not wickedly departed from my God, neither I / in the point of belief, nor pi adticall obedience. Thirdly, we muft fee all the commands of §rod, and his written judgements before us, to beobferved, one as well as another, and muft have refped to Gods tbreatned, and executed judgments sjfoj that we may fay with *David y Alibis judgements were before me y and J did not put away his flames fromme. Fourthly/ We muft ftudy fincerity in our carriage, doing good adions well from right principles, and for the right end, that we may fay, I was alfo upright before him. Fifthly, We muft keep fhid watch o-ver our wicked nature, and moft raging paffions and a fled i-? ons, left they break our* that our confeience may not contra-did us, when we fay, 1 have \{tpt my fitifc frm mine iniquity. 6. Ic is wifdome to joyne one mercy with another, in our reckoning, that we may fay that we have gotten grace for grace, as David doth acknowledge. That as God h'd given to him grace to itudy rigbteoumefle and innocency, fo hxd he rccompenfed htm according to his rigbteoufnejfe. j. When the world would bury our innocency with flanders, u is lawfull and expedient to defend our own good name, and tofpeak andwiitc in defence of it, as David doth here.

Ver, 25. With the mercifnll then wilt jhew thy felfe mercifully with an upright man tho wilt {hew thy felje upright.

2d. With the pure thou wilt [hew thy felfe pure, and with tbefroVPard thou wilt /hew thy felfe fraward.

27. For thou wiltfave the affiled peoplei but wilt bring downehighy looks.

From his owne experience he draweth up a generall dedrine, concerning the Lords holy, juft, and wile manner of dealing with all men, according :o their carriage cowards him. Whence learne, 1. The experiences which any of the Saints have , of the efFeds of Gods Word, are proofs of the certainty of Gods promifes and tbreatnings, and pawns of the like effeds to follow unto othen > For here David draweth a generail dodrine from his particular experience. 2,. As a man would have a meeting from God,fo muft he ftudy to behave himfelfe toward God and man, for Godscaufe 5 for with the bountifully mercifull, upright and pure, he will deal accordingly. 3. Whomever (hall walke contrary unto God? and drive wito him t or

will

will not fubmit themfelves unto him, he (hall walke contrary , |i unto them, and punifh them feven times more, becaufe of theic v flubberneffes/cr towardthefrowardbewilfhewbimfelffroivarA, 4. Albeit the godly be for a while affii&ed, and ihe wicked do profper, yet after the affliction of the godly, falvation (hall come to them 5 and after the profperity, vaine and proud glo-riation of the wicked, their deftru&ion/hall follow, For be will five the afflifted people, but will bring downe high looofe-

Ver. 28. For thou wilt light my candle , the Lori my God Will enlighten my darknejfe.

From bygon experience he ftrengthens his own hope of further experience thereafter^ need mould require. Wlience kirn* 1. Beleevers being delivered out of many bygon tvoub!cs,muft not promife to themfeftes exemption from new troubles here* after, but rather make tbemfelves ready for new exercife , and more fad paffages of Gods difpenfadons towards them. For Ptf-ij/Wprefuppofeth here, that he may, yea, and that he (hall be thereafter in darfyiefle, and want for a while the Candle light of confolation. 2. As the godly man may exped croflks, fo may he be furealfoof as many confolations,and fweet feafoningsof his troubles, and deliverances out of tbtm ; fo that hemayfay, both before trouble come, and in the midft of ic, The Lord Vfill light my Qandle* and my God mil enlighten myjarlyiejfe.

Ver. 29. For by thee I have runthrough a trcuf : and by my God have I leaped over a wall.

Here is another part o^bis experience, concerning bis vido-fies and good fucceffe in battel, the glory whereof he afcribes altogether to God- Wbenceleaxne, 1. Although the courage, valour and fucceffe of all fouldiers is from the Lord , yet only the beleever doth give Grd the glory thereofas Vivid here. 2.Na-turall courage , and whatfoeyer mtaCure a man may have of it, now and then, may faint and fail altogether , when it meetetb with very ilrong oppefkion 5 But the fpiruuall courage which is from Faith, is from a more fure ground , and will not faile, when faith fetreib it on, whacfoever be the apparent difficulty, for by Faith in God David was made to run through a troupe, or leap over a wait into a Town, full of his enemics,wnh afiurance of vidory.

Ver.jc As for Gcdjjis way is ferfeVt;the word of the

Lord,

S>4 PSAL XVIII.

Lord is tried: he is a Bnckjcr to all thofe that truft in him.

31. For Who \s Godfave the Lord ? or who is a rock^ fave our God ?

The Fourth part of the Pfalme, wherein he praifeth the Lord exprtfly, for what he had found in him $ and in this he is a fpc-/tialltypeof Chrift, in his conqueft and vi&ories. Therea-fons of his piaifing, are four, fet down in order. Wbentt learn, I, The conftant, equable^ and old way of Gods dealing with tbofetbat beleevein him, is a matter of Gods praife, and a reafon why the experience of one beleever may be a ground of hope for another, to finde the like, becaufe ic is faid here , tAs for Goi y bis way is perfeft. This is one reafon of his praife* and of the beleevers hope. 2. In all times by-gon 3 experience hath proved the word of the Lord to be moft folidly true. Which ferveth for the fecond reafon of praifing God, and grounding of our hope 5 the word of the Lord is try ed. 3. There is none of the beleevers excepted from the benefit of his promifesj which is a third reafon of Gods praife,and of our hoytyforbe is a buckler to all tbofe thai truft in bim* He is a defence which we may tonftantly carry along with lis, where ever wegoe 3 and make ufeofbispower and love, as of a buckler in all conflicts. 4- A fourth reafon of Gods praife, and ground of our hope is , that as there is no true Religion, nor true Faith fave one, fo there is no true God fave oneiy one, whofe true and tryed word,is with his true Church and Saints, who beleevc in bim ; For who is god fave the Lord, or who is a rock fave mr Cjed i f. There is no fountain of comfort,or of ftrength or delivery,fave the Lord, of whomonely all things have their being: for who is God fave the Lord £ 6. There is no ground to build our confidence and felicity upon, fave God alone, who is in Covenanc through Ghrift with us; who is a rock, few our G°d ?

Ver. 32. It is God that girdethme with ftrength, and mak?th my way perfefL

33. He maketh my feet like hindes feet, andfetteth r/;e upon my high places.

34. Be teachethrny hands to War 9 fo that a bow of ft eel is broken by mine arms.

zf 9 ThoH haft alfogiven me thejbield of thy falva-

tion^

tion\ and thy right hand hath holden me up , and thy gentleneffe hath made me great.

36. Thou hafi enlarged my fiefs tinker me ; that my feet did not (lip.

He gocth on to reckon the furniture, and ability for warre, which the Lord did give to him. Whence team, 1. The man of God muft refolve to be a man of war, and to yoke with adverfa-ries of one fort or other 5 Such as was David, and Chrift , and his followers reprcfented by him. 2. The man whom the Lord fendeth out to fight his Battels, he will arme him compleatly from head to foot $ He will gird him with ftrength, and mafa hi s myplaineandperfcft * he will make his feet fwift, hewitlfurnijh him with a retiring; place on high, he will furnijh him with a Bow of (teely and with all armes ofFenfive , and will enable him with more skill and ftrength then to make ufe of them jhe will furnifh him alfo with aflneld 0//j/xuti<m,whichfhalfave him in effc&;& with all arms defenfive, and uphold him by his right hand,whert he is like to be overcomejand by his tender care of him,wil make him a great man, a valiant man of war, and held him on his feet, that he fall not in his fervice. Whereof David here bath experience in his warfare, bodily and fpirituall. 3. What God hath done for a man 3 will be better (een after the trouble is ended, then in the mean time. The back-look upon the Lords af-fiftance is molt clear. As here T>avid giveth the cleaieft compc of Gods afiiftance, when his experience is reviewed. 4. Aj] the furnitures of fpirituall armour, in our fpirituall warfare, which Jiere is chiefly aimed at, is oniy from the Lord $ for he, even be only is here declared the fi|mi(her thereof, and without him the man is altogether weak, wuleffe and naked*

37. I have purfued mine enemies and overtaken them : neither did Iturne againe till they were confuted.

38. / have wounded them that they were not able H rife: they are fallen under my feet.

39. For thou haft girded me with ftrength unto the battel: thou haft fubdued under me thofe that refe up again ft me.

40. Thou haft\alfo given me the necks of mine enemies j that I might deftroy them that hate me*

Here

Here he maketb mention of the vi&ories which God gave to him, as a Type of Chrift, over all bis enemies. iVbence learn, i. Ic was revealed ro David, that as he himfelfehad, fo alfo Chrift mould have many enemies, and mould fight againft them, and prevaile over them, and make all his followers vi-ftorious over them all ; That he mould purfue his, and their enemies, in every age, and net turn again till they flail be cpw-fumed, as is ver ^7. till he cajt them down, that they be not able to fifetverf.1%. till he hath fubdued [hem all under his feet, and ours, ver. 5 9. till he have ta\en them captives and deftroyed them, vcr.40. For Chrifts vidories are common to him and his fol-lowersy in as far as their welfare is for him, and he is ingaged to fight our battels for us, or by us, as he fees fit.

Vcr.41. They cried.but there was none tofave them : even unto the Lord, but he anfrveredthem not.

42. Then did I beat them fmall as the Auft before the wind: I did caft them out, as the dirt in the fireets.

In the type of fome paffages of fome fevere juftice which David did execute againft his enemies, he fettetb forth the certain deftrudion of Chrifts enemies, in judgement mercileffe. Whence learn, 1. That whofoever do look for releafe out of their trouble, and that not through Chrift, fhal( have no releafe-at all. Though they cry, there flail be none tofave them. z. Ic may be iome may think tbcmfelves i^iends to God, and God a friend to them, and pray to him, albeit they be enemies to Chrift J but that prayer which is put up to Cjod without reconciliation made through Chrift, foil! be rejeded- Though they cry to the Lord, he flaUnot anjmrthem. $. If menpurfued by Chrift for their enmity againft him, (hall nor, under the rod at leaftjXurn to him, there rcmaineth nothing for tbein, but that they Be utterly deftroyed, and as it were beaten as (mat as the duft. 4. The obiHnate enemies of Chrifts Kingdome fliall periftiftiamefully, and as they have defpifed the blood of Chrift, and of his fcrvanrs, fo (hall the Lord defpife them-; . He flail aft them out to the dirt in the fireets.

Ver. 43 - Thou hs.ft delivered me from the firivings of the people^ and thou haft made me the head of the heathen : a people whom / have not known jhall ferve me.

44. Affoon

44. Affoon as they hear of n?e, they Jhallobey me s m the ftrangers Jljallftibmh themfelves unto trie.

In the fifth and laft part of tbc Pfalm, he promifetb to binr fclfe the fctling and enlargement of his own Kin^d'jme^ and prophefietb alfo of Chrifts Kingdome reprefenred thereby. JVbmcelearn, 1. As was Davids, iois Chrifts Kingdom, iub-jc&tointcftinecommotionsyiumulcs and diffentions j as in the one there was, fo in the other hith been, and will be contentions, and ftrivingsof tbc people, raifed by Satana foftercd by wicked hypocrites, and by the corruption cf the Lords children. 2. Such ftriving and difiention do put our Lords King-dome inafortof hafcird, if we look to fecond caules, fo as ' there will be need of Gods help for a delivery from it. But the Kingdome of Chrift/hall ftand for all thatj notwithstanding tbcfe contentions, that it may ftill be faid of his Kingdom, 2$ : it is fiid here of the typicall Kingdome, and is propbelied of 1 Chrifts Kingdome, Thou baft delivered me from tbc ftrivings of the people. 3- To the Pipphec it was revealed, that Chrifts Kfngd^riewas nottoremaine ftraitned within the bounds of •fudea, but to be extended to the Gentiles, over whom Cbrift was to rtlgn, and now hath he a long time rcign'd. The Father as he made David the Type, (ohath he mxdc Chrift head of the heathen. 4. The wickedneffe of a peifon or people* whofe ! works have been moll loathfome to the Lord, cannot hinder 1 him to ihew mercy to them through Chrift, when hce plea^ethi i to convert then. For be hath faid, A people whom I have not known, Jhall ferve me : which hath oft-times come to pafl'e, and. j will yet more bee ken effectually. J. The word of the Lord is the Scepter of^is Kingdome, the fword whereby he fubdueth people to bimfelf 5 asfoon as they hearofmc, faith the Lord, in the mouth of his Type, and Prophet, thfiy Hull obey me. 6. The more room the word gets in a mans heir t 5 and the fooner it bee believed and obeyed, after tignitkation of Gods will to him by his word, the more kindly istheconverli-on, aud the more of the Lords power is evidenced : as here is imported in affoon as they hear of me. 7. When Chrift fubdueth Nations to bimfelfe by his word, and doth convert the eled, or his own redeemed ones: ftrangers in heart will come alfo outwardly unto the fociety of his Church and King-dome, thoughfainedly. The ftrangers jhall fubmit tbmfc'vcs tome 9 , fainedly as che word imporeeth 8, Eycn this outward

H effcr

offer of fubmiffion to Onfts Kingdome* made by ftranaers, coming to the vifible Church, is not refufed, but received pro tanto, and made a mi tcr of glorifying of Chrift. Thegrangers fhall faincdly fubmit tbemCelves to me. For it is no Imall glory to Chnft ihat cbe Maj ftyof his Word and Ordinances, doth make many ftoop before him, who are not turned trutiy unto him. Mean time, albeit by encring into, and fub-mitting to the externall covenant, a man be admitted into the vifib^ Church, and outer Court of Gods boufe, yet not without ivall converfion is a man made a member of the invifiblc Church, and admitted into the inner Court of heaven.

V r er>45 .The fir angers jhall fade away\and be afraid out of their clofe places,

\ He prophefieth what mail become of-drifts enemies a c length Whence ham. i. As Come Grangers flull come into the outward fellowihip of ChiiiU Ktr.gd m, fo others of them fliali remain profefled ftungers,and dif-aftlftcd to his Kingdomjand whither ftrange-s wi hin,or wirhout,inal con i' uetobe%anger$ ftil,bothof them Shall penfh. For ftrangers Jbal fade away? i. Albeit Chrift at full, may have many enemies, and unfriends, where heconv h to let up bis K n^Jome, yet where and when he pleafethtoft -y, and keep up his Kingdom, his op<n enemies mall grow fewer. The fir anger s fh all fade avsxy : to wit,wbtrebe minds toftay, and for whai end thinks good to dJminim r htm. j. Whether the Lord be pleafed to convert ftran^rs, or not, their ft.ong holds, fwherher their high imaginations, or their earthly power,) fhail not be.able to ftand before him; let bim come to convert them outwardly or inwardly aho, or ckftroy therrb as he (hall be pleafed, his tefrrbur mall affii^hr them y For the firangcrqfbdort him) fhall be afraid, out of their clofe pU*

CCS.

Ver,46". The Lord liveth, andbleff-ed be mjrecl^: and let the God of my falvation be exalted.

47. It is Cjod that avengeth me y and fubdueth the people under me.

48. He ddivereth me from mine enemks : yea A thou Ifftefi me up abovethofe that rife up againft me : then haft delivered me from the violent man.

Vcr. 49. Therefore veiil 1 give thanks unto the? (0 Lord) among the heathen: and fwg praifes unto thy name.

50. Great deliverance giveth he to his King, and Jbcwethmtrcy to his anointed, to David, and to his feed for evermore.

He concludeth the Pfalme with thankfgtving, and prai-fcth the Lord for his perfonall prefcrvation unto eternal! life, vcrfe 46. for overthrowing of his enemies, verfe 47. for delivery of him from them, ver/i 47,48. and in Chriits name he fectcth forth the Lords glory, before the Gentiles , for the mercies following the Kingdomc of Chrift, and his ownKingdome, the type thereof, icr. f o> 50. Whence leane 3 1. The end of allourfpeeches, concerning what we have been imployed into, and have done, or have bad fuccefle in, mould be to mew forth the glory of God to others, and to offer praife and thanks to him : for this Bleffei be my roc\, (&C. is the end vrhercunto Davids example doth drsve. 2. Life, and bleffei life> qwe faring life, the only fountain of .life, is the proper fhie of God, of whom moll properly and dtlcrvedly we may fay, Tbe Lord livetb. 3. Becaufe God is the Fountain of all blef-fedneffe, to Angels and men 5 therefore mould we acknowledge him, and proclaim him bleffei, that the hearer may feele bleffedntffe in him alone, 4, The perfciftion of God in him-felfe, the out-letting of bis goodneffe to the creature, his immutability in his love to his own, his making hiinfelfc to be as it were the proper good of the believer by covenant; and his giving the certainty of falvation to the believer, eftablifhed by covenant; Tbefe and other perfe&ions mould exalt tbe Lord highly in the cftimation, and affe&icn of the b^iever, and do make the believer heartily wim the Lord may be known to bis praife: for thttcaufe faith the Prophet, tbe Lord livetb, and bleffei be my roc\, and let tbe God of my falvation be exalted. 4. s David } 2s a type of Chrtft, in name and bchalfe of Chrift, doth give unto God the glory of taking order with his enemies, for preferving and propagating his Kingdome, and for delivering his people from cruell persecutors. It U God, faith he, that avengethme, and jubduttb tbe people under me. Hedeliyeretb me from mine enemies, yta,xboulifteflmeup above tbefc that rife wp agmft me: Thou baft delivered mee from the violent nun.

H 2 Ycr.49*

*oo PSAL XVIII.

Vcr. 49. Therefore will I give thanks unto thee {0 Lord)among the heathen: andjing praijcs unto thy name.

Befidc prefent praifing of God, he pro-nifeth to infift in praife and thankfgiving. This the Apoflle Rom- 1 5. 9. (heweth to be tbe fpeecn of Cbrift, and a prophefie of che conversion of the Gentiles. Whence learn, 1. Befide allthevi&o-ries giv*°n ro the Church in Davids time, as a pledge of promifes it was foretold chat the Gentiles (houId fee many vi&o'ies over the enemies of the Chu/cu of Cbnft, after his coming, and that tbey ftlould joyne with the Jews in thankfgiving to Gid for the f;mej for upon account of the Lords lifting up Chrift above his adverfaries, and cruell perfecutors, Tbanfa Jhallbe given unto tbe Lord among tbe beatben. z. The facrifice of praife offered up in the Church, as it is the work of the Saints in one refped, fo it is the work of Chrift in another refped, becaufe he raifeth by his Spirit the fong in their hearts, and offereth up the facrifice of thanks unto the Father: For it is Chrift who h :re faith, I mil give thanks unto tbe (0 Lord) among tbe heathen, dndfing praifes to thy name. m

Ver. 50. Great deliverance giveth he to his King : andjheweth mercy unto his annointed*. to David, and his feed, for evermore.

David as a Type of Chrift, giveth a reafon of perpetuall praifing of Go ; to wit, the conftanc courfe of Gods mercies ihewn to him, and his houfe, and to be iriewn to Chrift, and bis children, and houfe, for evermo-e. Whence learn, 1. As difficulties, enemies, and dangers of the Church, are many and grea f J fojliall their victories over thefe evils b^ great alio > For great deliverance giveth he, in acqnunuaii trad and courie, as it were, one after another, as need is. 2. All che deliverances are given to Chrift principally,3nd in him to hiiCnurcb, and particular foules through him. For it is faid, Great deliverance giveth be to bis tiding. 3. Tbe chufing of a man for a ferVice, lhall by the calling of him ro ir, and qualifying him for it, and fuftaininghim in it, be confirmed to him, and by the courfe of mercy following him in all his difficulties, which ke (lull meet with in his calling:. Therefore fignificantly doth fae fay, Great deliverance giveth he to his K* n &> l0 D*vid, a cho-

fen

fell Type, and to his annointed Chrift, rcprcfcntcd by him : Hejhcvteth mercy to bis anointed, Chrift his feed. 4* It is mecr mercy whereof Chrifts followers, Cbrifts children and feed do ftand in need : and mercy by courfe constantly /hall follow them, not for a fhort time, but world without end > for the Lord Jhewetb mercy to 'David and bis feed for evermore.

PSAL. XIX.

To the chief Mufician, tA Pfalm of David.

This Pfalme is z fweet contemplation of the glory of Gods wifdom,power arid goodnefle,fhining in the works of Creation,?/. 1,2,3,4, J, 6. and of the glory of his holines,and rich grace,fhining through his word,and Ordinances in his Churchy. 7,8,9, 10-whereof the Prophet having proofe, prayeth to have the right ufc and benefit, ver. 11, 12,13,14.

v.l.**Y*He heavens declare the glory of C/od; and the J, firmament Jheweth his bandy-workfj, Albeit the whole earth be fuil of the glory of the Lord , yet the Prophet contentetb bimfelfe to pitch his meditations on the heavens alone? and the vicifficisde of day and night, and upon ' the courfe of the Suns light. Whence Uarn> 1. Albeit the glory of the Lord fliine in all his works, yer any portion tberercof will take up a mans meditation, when he beginneth to think upon it, as here the heavens are the Prophets Tbeam and fubje£fc matter of meditation. 2. The iavifible things of God , even bis e-ternall power,and Godhead? and glorious attributes of wifdom, and goodncfle> and Majefty arc to be feen in the works of Creation, from the beginning of the world., the heavensdeciare the glory of God, and the firmmentjhmetb bis bandy-worfa. 3. Though his glory be (hewen to all men, yet it h ttu :ilumi-nate child of God that can obferve it ; for he that fetteth it forib to others,doth it by the inspiration of the Lords own fpirit: He is a Prophet who here is itirred up to point unto us this leflbty ixioft Worthy of onr obfemuono For in fubftanc* the heavens

H 3 dsclarl

declare that they are not their own maker>but that they are made by one* infinite, incomprehenfible, omnipotent, everiafting y good, kind and glorious God. And che firmament (taking it for tbe region of the aire, and place of the ftarsj declares how curioufly he can adorne the worke of his hands, and how powerfully he can put glory abundant on the creature, chough it have no matter in it to make it glorious.

2. <Day unto day uttereth fpeech y and night unto night Jbeweth knowledge.

3. There is no fpeech nor language, where their voice if not heard.

4. Their lint is gone out thoroVv alt the earth , and their words to the end of the world : in them hath he feta tabernacle for the Sun.

He looketh next upon the vicifficudc of night and day 3 and as he faw what the heavens gave him co read , fo he harkeneth and heareth what the day and the night did fpeak 3 and he com-prifcth all their fpeech in the Dodrrine of knowledge. Whence Umie, 1* The right obfervation of the vidfli^udeofthc nighc and day, may give inftru&ion unto us to be wife 3 for day unto day y in their revolution, utter fpeech to the obferving ear 3 *And night unto nighty in their vicifsicude jheweth to the underftand-ing man tyw*fc4g e * £°*fa fubftance, the ricilsitude of day after day, doth ferve to teach man,that he liveth in time, and that hisdayes arenumbred, thacbisdayesdo goc quickly away, and that time is precious, and cannot returne when it is gone 3 and that fo long as it (hall iaft, it (hall ferve man to view the works of the Lord* and to goe about his own neceifary labours 3 and fiich like other fpeeches doth it fpeak : Alfo the night faith,That mm in himfelfe is weake, and cannot endure long toyling in labour 5 that as fome little fliort reft and recreation of the labourer is neceifaty, fo it is prepared for him, that he may lie under a curtaine, and flcep a while , and fo be fitted for more worke, if more time be lent unto him 3 and that he may now quietly examine, whathe hath been doing, may commune with his heart, arid be ftillj ind that if he doe not what he hath to doe in time, the night comtih when no mm cMiTCorty: By which, and fuch like fpeeches, men may learnc knowledge. 2. There is no people nor country^ but as much of the fpeccb of the creature is fpoken convincingly unto them, as may make them inexcufable 3 and

albeit

albeit all doe not lcarnc wifedomc, yec the voice of the Works o* creation* and providence h everywhere in fome meafurc heard their line and dire&ion is gone out through the earth.

5. Which is as a Bridegroom comming out of his chamber i and rejoyceth as aftrong man to run a race*

6. His going forth is from the end of the heaven ± and his circuit unto the ends of it : and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof

Hecontra&cth his thoughts from the highnefs of the heaven*, and pitcheth upon the Sunne, and beholdeth Gods glory in it. Whence learn, 1. AH the glory to be feen in the Sun belongeth unto the Lord $ for he hath made it, and let it in its place, 09 hi a Tabernacle, for a time, fo long as he hath ufe and fervicc of it, 2. The beauty of the Sun when it arileth in the morning % the wonderfuil fwift and regular motion of it, fo tempered by the huge diftince thereof from the earth, that it cannot be fecn moving, when it it is running in a circle in the heaven mod; fwiftly: Theconftancy of the motion of it from day to day , from year to year, without wearying or failings the vaft circle which it maketh every twenty foui hours; the heat and vertue, and powerfull operation upon allinferiour crcaruresare all ad* mirable, and matter of manifefting the glorious perfection of God, who made it, and movcth it 5 As the Bridegroom he rifctb, corhpaffeth the Circle of heaven and earth> and nothing is hid from the heat thereof.

7. The Law of the Lord if per feft, converting the foul : the teftimonj of the Lord is jure .making wife the Jimpie.

8. The Statutes of the L<rd fright, rejojeing the heart : the commandment of the Lord is furc t eniight* ning the eyes 0

9. The fear ef the Lord is clean^ enduring for ever : the judgements of the Lord ViZ true p and righteous al* together*

10. More to be defired we they then gold^ jea $ then much fine gold zfweeter alfo then the honey 9 and the ho* nej combe.

Hi T«

Tbe next pare of his contemplation, is concerning the glory of tbe Lord,dedared in his word and ictipture, which light as ic ismorenecefftry for our blcffedneffc then the Suns light for our bodies, fo he commendetb this point of Gods glory, ( far above that, which fliineth in the worke of creation) trom the perfection, cfficacic, infallibiliry,and fundry other properties of it. Whence learn, i. The DoSrineof life and falvation, fetdowne to us in Gods word, as a law to us, and a rule of faith and obe» dtence, needcth no deck of humane traditions s it is fufficient in h felfe, and wanteth nothing ncceflary unto falvation ; For the Law of the Lor its perfeB. z. Nodo&iine, nowordfave this divine truth, fee downe in fcripture, is able to difcovtr the fin and mifery of man, or the remedy and reliefe from it j no do&rine fave this alone 3 can effectually humble a (oul> and con-vert it to God, or make a foule fenfiblc of the loffe it hath by fin, and rcftore ic to a better condition then is ioft by fin* for it is the property of this law or doftrine, to be converting offoules. 3. Wbofoever hcarkneth to this word, mall be fatisfied about what is the Lords mind and will in all matters of religion,con-cerning Godsfcrvice,and mans falvatior 5 for his the teftimony of the Lord, wherin he giveth forth his will, concerning what he approveih, and what he diiallowetb. 4. This word being un« derftoodrighdyjas it may beunderftood when it is compared witbitfelfe, one part of ic with another, and other means alfo ufed, which God hath appointed^may be fafely relyed upon: it wilt not difappoint a man5 for tbe teftimony of the Lord is fure. J. Albeit there be many deep myfieries in this word; which may excrcilcthe greateft wits, yet for the points neceffary for the falvation of every foul, it is fo plaine and clear, that it may be un-derftood by perfons of mean wits, and may make thofe who are otberwifedullofunderftanding, wifeto falvation $ foritisa teftimony making wife tbefimple. 6,Notbing is'commanded by God in his word, but that which the illuminate foul muft fub-fcribe unto, as equitable in it felf, and profitable to us. For the ftatutes of the Lord are right. 7. Th* approving and following of the Lords directions given to us, in his word^'s a fure mean to get comfort and joy rais'd in our confeience. For the flatuses ofihe Lord rejoyce the heart. 8. There is no mixture of crrcur, no droffe, nor refufe dodrine, no deceit in the Lords wordj for the Commandment of the Lord is fure. 9. By tbe word of God a man may clearly fee bimfelfe in bimfelfe blind and naked, and wretched and mii'erab!e,and by coming into the grace and mer-

cy offered in the Mefsiah, Chrift, may Tee himfelfe entred in the only fafc way of falvation. By the word of God a man may fee every thing ic its own colour*} vertue to be vertue, and vice to be vice and vanity ; For the word illuminates the eyes. 10. The way of worshipping, fearing, and ierving God,fct downe in his word, is holy^and in fubitance the fame in all generations^ and alwayes unalterable by man for ever. The fear of the Lord is chatty enduring for ever. 11. The do&tinesfet downe in the word of Godj are all of them decrees of the almighty Law-giver, given forth in his own Court with authority uncontrolable: all of them are true and worthy to be obeyed^ for the judgements of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether. 1 2. The word of God is able to enrich a man more then all the richrs in the world, becaufe it is able to bring bim to an everlafting Kingdomejfor Gods judgements being as judicial! fentencesj to determine all neceffary truths and controversies, about faving tiuth , are more tobedefired then gold , yea then much fine gold. ij. There is more fweet comfort and true pleafure to be round in the Lords word, then in any pleafant thing in this world. They are fweter then the honey, and the honey combe.

11. Moreover , by them is thy fervant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

The Prophet fubferibetb this commendation of Gods word, by his owne experience , and feeketh to make good ufeofit. Whence learne> 1. That man,ofallotherj is molt meet to commend the word of the Lord, who in himfelfe hatb felt the experience of the effects and good ufe thereof, as the Prophets example doth (hew. 2. As the w o:d of God is able to make a man wife to falvation, fo alfo to make him prucent in his carriage, to efchuc not onely fin, butaito inconveniences, and to warne bim of fnarcs, wherein he may fail by imprudency. For I befide all the former commcndation;he ^dtih^Monover by them it thy fervant -warned. $. When a man hath layd ail he car., in commendation of the word of Godj he mall no: be able to fay all, but muft clofe in fome generall, becaufe the benefit of observing of the Lords Statutes and Commands, dctb pafle his reachifor thus the Prophet dofctb,lB keeping of them there is great reward.

12. Who can mderftarid his errors I clranft then we fromfecret faults.

Leaft

•

Leaft he mould fcem to fpeake like one who feeks to be ju-ftified by his works 3 he acknowledged himfelfe a man chat clea-veth not to his owne rightcoufneflk, but to the founcaine of free grace, and to the expiation of (in made by Chrift, figmfied un» der the ihsuiow of ceremonial cleanfing; Whencelearne, i. The moft hoty mm, after converfion, mutt make ftill ufeof the law for his humiliation, and for driving of him to Ch ift continually* and when he compareth bimleif with the Law of *3od,he will be forced to blufli and acknowledge hi nfdf and every other ! man unable to condefcend upon the particulars, and the multitude even of his a&uallfins. Therefore faith he, Who canun-derftand his errors? a. Sins of ignorance jfins pift out of memory* doe leave guiltineffe upon the man* and muft be counted for in heap at leaft : and mercy through the blood of cleanfing muft be requefted for, as here. CUanfe thou me from fecrtt fins.

13. Keep bacl^thj fervant alio from prefurnptuous fins,/?/" them not have dominion over me : thenjhal I be upright , and I fhjllbe innocent from the great tranfgrefftm*

He puts up another petition* to wit, That he may be prefer* Ved from prefurnptuous fins. Whence lexrn> 1. Hoheft men are moft fcnfible of their bygone fins, and fo alfo of their naturatf finfulneffc, and readincffetofall, whereof the Prophet here is iu fear, faying 3 J{eep bac\ alfo thy fervant from prefurnptuous fins. 2. Even the regenerate^ the Lord doe not keep them from ten-tation, or if be leave them in tentation, unto their own will and ftrengthjthey may fal into moft fcandalous fins,againft the light of their conscience* and be slaves thereunto ; Therefore pray-tth he to be kept back from prefurnptuous fins, and that €jfod would notfuffcr fuch fins to have dominion overbim 3 inCmumaghls own weakoeffe, it God did not prevent did not aflift and help him to prevail againft them. j. Uprightneffe and integrity in Gods obedience may ftand with fins of infirmity ,8c fins of ignorance, but cannot ftand with prefurnptuous fins, againft the light of confidence; for if the Lord (hall fave him from prefurnptuous fins, tben^ht faith, Hefball be upright. 4. Prefurnptuous fins, and letting fin reigne in a mans mortal! b-dy y is the high way to the fin unto death, or finning malicioufly, with defpight a-gainft God} and he that makes coafcteocc ai fecrct fins, and is

fearel

feared to fall into prefumptuous (ins, and flieth to God to bee cleanfed from the one^ and preferved from falling into the o-ther, may be fure not tofaliinto the finneagainft the Holy ^boft. For the Prophet having prayed to be cleanfed from hi* fecrec fins, and kept back from prefumptuous and reigning fins, afiureth himfclfe* That fo bcjUll be innocent from the great tranfgrejjion.

Vcr. 14. Let the words of my mouthy and the meditation of my heart , be acceptable in thy fight , O Lord myftrengh, and my Redtemer.

The third petition's, for thr acceptance of his fervice in his prayer, and purpofe of titan. Whence learn, i. As pardoning graces and preventing grace, and re ft raining grace, muft be prayed for: fo alfo poweifull fanftifyifig* or enabling grace, both for inward and outward fervke > yea, and grace accepting the fervice when it is offered, muft be fought for by prayer from God. For as the Prophet hatb p ayed for the former ads of grace, fo affo he prayeth here for the latter fort, faying, Let the words of my mouth, and meditxtion of my heart , be acceptable, i. As all our prayers, and ail our holy indeavours* and abilities to ferve God, muft be furiiimed unto us by our Redeemer, who is Jefus Chrift $ fo alfo every other grace, and the acceptance of our perfons and fervices, muft come through bim$ and we may look for alLthefe by vercueof the Covenant |of grace, whereby Chrift is made our ftrength and Redeemer in all refpeds .• Therefore layeth he all the weight on this, 0 \Lord my ftrength, and my Redeemer.

PSAL. XX.

To the ebiefMuficUn. A Pfalm of Vivid.

ThisPfaJme was dited to the Church infotme of a prayer for the Kings of Ifr'ad ■ but with a fpeci-aH eye upon, and relation unto Quifr, the King of Ifrael ; in refpeft of whom this prayer is a prophefie, and a forme of blefling of Chrift, and

pray-

praying for his Kingdom, whereof the Kingdom of Ifrael was a type, and the Kings thereof arc types of Chnft. Not that the Kingdorae in every condition was figurative, or every King a type of him,- But as che Priefts 6eing taken not fe-verally, one by one, but together, (hadowed fortfi in fomething, Chrift in the Office of his Prieft-hood ; fo the Kings, not every one, but taken together, fhadowed forth in fomething Chrift, in hisRoyall Office, and their Kingdome refem-bled his Kingdome in his vifible Church in fome things, and in his invilible CHurch in other fome things, leaving room to fome perfons, both a-mongthe Priefts, and Kings, to be more fpecially types then any of the reft in their common, ver. 1,2,3,4,5. After which the Churches confidence to be heard is fet down, and thtir gloriation in God over their enemies, with dependance on God for falvation in all difficulties and ftraits, ver. 6 j, 8,9.

Ver. 1.'HT^Hip Lord hear thee in the d*y of trouble^ JL the Name of the God of Jacob defend thee.

2. Send thee help from the SanEluary^ andftreng-then thee out of Sion.

3. Remember all thy offerings y and accept thy burnt-facrifice. Selah.

4. Grant thee according t 0 thine own heart* ana fulfill all thy counfel.

5. Wee will re Joyce in thy falvation, and in the Name of our God we will fet up our banners ; the Lord fulfill all thy petitions.

f ram this prayer of che Church for che King of Iffael. Lum 1. It i% the duty of all the godly* where-eyer they live;

iO pray for the wall of their Kings, Rulers, and Magiftrates, as this example tcachcth. 2. Gieateftmen, though they bee alfo gracious, are fubjed to trouble; for even the be ft of the Kings of lfracl, and Cbrift typified by them, were not exempt therefrom. The lord bear tbee in the day of trouble, ^. Itistbe part of fuchasdefi e the prayers 0/others to bee made for thenb to pray alfo tbcmfelves, were they never fo o re at Kings > and prayer muft be counted their beft weapons in trouble 3 The Lord bear thce } faith he, in the day of thy trouble.

4. No defence to be cxpe&ed from Gcd, but when he is looked upon, and believed in asheis manifefted to us in his word* Therefore he faith, The <l{amc of tbe Godof Jacob defend thee. Or God who in bis word bath revealed bimfelfe tolfrg-f/, and cntred in covenant to bee his God defend thee.

5. Ic is by vertue of Gods dwelling amongft men 3 and his taking on mans nature in the perfon of Cbrift (reprefented by Godsprefence in Sion and the Sanftuary) that help muft be expected from God. Therefore faith be., Tbe Lord fend thee help out of tbe Sanctuary, and fircngtben tbee out of Sion. 6. Kings and all for whom the godly may pray with confidence, muft be worfliippers of God, believers in Chrift, relyers upon the mercy of this only once offered facrifice, reprefented by ofren repeated typical burnt offerings. For this is imported in, Tbe Lord remember all tby offerings, and accept thy burnt facrifices. For k is for Chtifts faenfice that we are accepted, and that any grace is granted to us. 7. A believer in Chrift, praying according

j to the revealed will of God, ask what be will, it mall be gran-

teds'ie who ftudieth to walk fincerely before Godjftudying to do

I what is pleafant to Gods heart, dial receive fat isfc dory snfwers,

(according to his own hears wilh. Upon this ground the prayer

I goeth here, The Lord grant tbee according to thine crcn heart, ani

I fulfill all tbycounfcL 8. Wbofoever do partake wirh Cbrifts

i Subjedsin trouble, fliall fh.ire wirh them alfo in che jjy of their

1 deliverance $ therefoie it is faid, We wiUrejoycc in thy falvati-

cn. 9- When it goech well with the King, and chicfe Magi-

ftratt:s> i< goeth rhe better with a!] the fui y ct 5 and the praife

I of delivery, and welfare redounderh to the glory of God who

is the fountain of all felicity} for, In the Name cf our god) tve

Jhall (et up our banners 3 faith the Church, ifG>d lhall bieffe

tte King.

Ver.<5. Noyp'know 7, that the Lord faveth his <■-

nointeA .

no PSAL. XX.

minted ; he will hear him from his holy heavw, Vvith the Javing ftrength of his right hand.

7. Some cruu in charets, and fome in horfes : but tye will remember the Name of the Lo'd our God.

8. Thry art brought down and fain : but we are ri-fen y and ft and upright.

9. Save, Lord; let the King hear us when We call.

Thi i; the Churches confidence to be heard, and her glori-ationinC^od, and dependence on God for falvation. JVbenct learn, 1. A believer may be fure he hath his requeft granted, when he hath prayed according to Gods will? in fpeciall when he prayeth for fafety to the 6'hurch, and Kingdomc of Chrift. I \now f faith he) that the Lorifavetb bk anointed. 2. He that feeketbGod by the means appointed, in fpeciall, he whofeek-eth God, and help from him, through Chrift, in whom the ful-nefle of the Godhead dwelleth, (hall have the grant of bis prayer from heavens for help fought to come from the Sanftuarj, vcr. 2. is granted from bk holy heaven, ver.6. 3. Whatfocvet be the ftraits of Gods Church, or any member thereof, faith feeth fuf-ficiency in God to relieve out of it, and doth lay hold on it. For be bearetb with the fxving ftrength ofbU right hand. 4. Weak man cannot chufe but have fome confidence without bimfelfe, *in cafe ot apparent difficulties s and naturall men do look firft to fome earthly thing wherein they confide. Some trufi in cbarets> and fome in horfes, fome in one creature, fome in another. $. The believer muft quit his confidence in thefe things, whither he have them, or want them, and muft rely on what God bath promifed in his word to do unto us. Bat weyill remember the Name of the Lord our God. 6. That which terrifietb the believer in the firft affault of a tcntation, before he go to his refuge, is contemned by the beiiever when he looks to the Lord, his true defence 5 Cbarets and horfes when tbey are invading Gods people are terrible; but now when the Lord is remembred, they are here fet at nought .in comparifon. 7. The condition of the worldly man and of the enemies of Gods people fcems to be the better, ar the fiift, and the condition of the Church the worfe. Buca (hirt revolution cometb, which determinctb the qucftion in the end 5 the ftanding of the ungodly is followed with a fal»s and the low condition of the godly hatha better condition following upon it. The worldly man, and ene-

my, is brought down, andfalteth. Buc the godly are made to fay, Wi are rifen and ftand upright.. 8. True confidence ftrengthcnsicfelfc by prayer, Save Lord. 9. That which is prayed for in the type, is perfected in Chrift, who is thetruchj falvation is granted to all hisSubj^&s, whenfoever they call, Let the King bear u* vfben we call. 10. And when the Lord is relycd upon for fafcty* the means (hall have the promifed blef-fing. The Kings of Ifrael were to be the more ufcfull to the people whenfafety was fought from the Lord. Firft, they pray* Save wi and then, Let the %jng bear us when mcall, or implore him.

p s A L. XXI.

To the thiefe Mufician, A Pfalm of T>xvid.

A* the former Pfalm was a prayer for the preferva-tion of the Kingdome of Ifrael, in relation to the Kingdome of Chrift, reprefemed by it: So this Pfalm is a forme 6f thankfgiving unto God by the Church, for bleffing of the Kingdom of If-r^/, reprefenting the blefling,and caufe of thankf-giving, to be found in Chrift, and his Kingdome, .wherein a number of good things are fet forth, heaped upon the King, ver. 1,2,3 ,4,5,6,7. And a number of miferies let forth, heaped on ihe head of hisenemies/W.8,9,10,11,12. For both which the Lord is glorified, ver. 13. The reafon why the former Pfalme and this, are referred info many particulars unco Chrift, is, becaufe the verity of thefe things here fpokenof, is to be fought in Chrift, and his Kingdome : for but in fomefew onely of the Kings, and infome few times of the Kingdome onely, was the fhadow of what isfcere fpokenof, to be found, whence whole biftory is confulced. Ver,

Vcr. I. ^T^He King /hall joy in thjftrength^ O Lprd: X and in thyfalvationhow greatly/hall he rejoice !

2 Thou haft given him his hearts defire^ and haft not mthholden the requeftofhis lips., Selah.

5 For thou prevented him -with the bleffmgs of goodnejfe : thou fetteft a Crowne of pure gold en his head.

4 He asked life of thee and thou gavefi it him, e-yen length ofdayes for ever and ever.

5 His glory is great in thy falvation i honour and majeftj haft thou laid upon him.

6 For thou haft made him moft blejfed for ever : thou haft made him exceeding glad with thy countenance.

7 For the King trufteth in the Lord^ and through the mercy of the^moft high hee fbxll not be moved. !

The benefits bcftowed on tbe King, and his Kingdome, are fevenor eight, which are fo many reafons of thankfgiving. The firft is joy in the Kings heart, for ftrengtb and falvation given unto him. Whence learn, i. As prayer is neceflary, fo alfois thankfgiving* and the ofF.-rinj or both to God, as ic is our duty, fo it is his due $ and as we fhould feek tbe concu -renceoF others in prayer, fo ill juld we feek their concurrence in praifes : And he thac off^reth prayer one day , (hall have mactet of prai.e to offer another day, as here wee are taught. 2. Chriftj and all his true Subjects, arc fure to be furniined with furniture of ft ength from God, for every imployment, and to be delivered out of every danger by GoJ, and to have j >y and rejoycing in the experimenca'l feeling ciereof. For, ThtYjng fhalljoy in thy ftrengb, 0 Lord, and in thy falvation bow greatly Jhall be re Joyce i This is the Eft reafon of praife and chanks, for this firit benefit. The fecond benefit bcftowed on Chrifbto be forthcoming to his true Subjects, i> this, Si-tisfa&ery anfwers mill be given to all the articles of thrifts truerceifion, an/1 all tbe artie'es of the Saints wjrranrable fup-pika ions. Thou haft given bimbk hearts defire, and baft not mthholden the requeft of bk lips. Tbe third benefit is this,

There

There (hall be a ready out-giving of liberall gifts for Chrifts fubjeds, and fruits of Gods love, before the need thereof be felt, orobfervedi Tbou freventeft him mtb the blejsing of gocd-neffe: The fourth benefit is right, and tide, and pofleffion given to Chriftj a name of glory, or the gift of a glorious Kingdome, wherein Chrift (hall give all his fubjeds crowns of glory, xboufetteft a crown of furc gold upon bis bead. The fifth benefit is right toeternalllifc, as the fruit of Chrifts inter-/ceffion j He asfadlifeof tbec, and thou gaveftbim even length of days> forever and ever. The fixth benefit given to Chrift, 1 and bis fubjeds, is growing honour, and growing weight of glorv, a load of it, even before menj for nothing can make men more glorious, even before the world, then Gods owning them before the world, and putting refped upon them J yea,and the world (hall more and more fee and admire the glory I which Goa mall put upon Chrift, and his Kingdome ; HUglch ry is great in thy falvation; honour andmajefty baft thou laid upon him. Thefeveotb benefit, is a begun poffeflRon of ever-lafting blefiedneffe, and joy unfpeakab.'e $ partly fom the feeh ing of the firft fruits, partly from the hope or a full harveft. For God will never make c?n end of bleffing whom he will bleffe. Tbou baft made bim, and his followers mo ft blc(fed for ever 5 tbou baft made him exceeding glad with thy countenance. t The eighth reafon of thankfgiv^ng, and the laft benefit, in relation to the giving of what is good to Cbrift, and to his (ub-jjeds, (among whom2)<twi and every one of the godly come in to (hare^ is the uncbangcableneffe of C^ods mercy,and power-| full love towa;d the believer^ who hath clofed in covenant: with him, and doch truft in him. He Jhall not be moved. And whyfo? Tbe^ingtruftetbintbeLord: What then t The covenanted mercy or the moft High is unchangeable, and maketh iall bleffedncffe faft to Chrift, and to every believer: through lUhe mercy of the mo ft High be fball not be moved. Chrifts King-jldomeinhis Perfon, and his Subjeds with him, (hall ftand, iwben all the kingdoms on earth (hall ft agger and fall.

-

1 Ver. 8. Thine hand (hall find out all thine enemies^ thj right hand {hall find out thofe that hate thee. \ 9. Thou Jhalt make them as 4 fiery oven in the time >cf thine anger: the Lord fball [wallow them up in hti tvrath^ and the fire fball devour them,

I Vrtf

Vcr. 10. Their fruit fbalt thou deftroy from the earthy and their feed from among the children of men.

In the z d .place there is a prophccic of Gods vengeance on the e-netnies of Cbiift,&bis Cburch,under the type of the enemies of Davids kingdom. Whence learn> i. All the enemies of Chrift,and bis Church, ilia) be purfued by C?od,and overtaken, and none of them fhalefcape his handsneither open enemie$,nor clofe lurking traitors. The Lor is hand jballfind out all the lyings enemies, and bh right hand jhall find out all thofc that hate him. z. All the enemies of Chrift, and his Kingdome, howfoever they may poffiblybe fparcd and forbom for a while, yet there is a fet time for puniiliing of them , here called the time of Gods an-ger. 3. When the time is come, their judgement is inevitable, horrible* and compleatiy full. Thou jbalt ma^eihem as a fiery oven, wberttbe burning is extream hoc, the heat ftricking upon what is in it 3 from all hands, above, below, and about, on all bands, and the door clofed trom going out, or differing any coole refreshment to come in. 4. There is no poflibility to apprehend the horrible punifhment of Chrifts enemies : for afcer their calling in a fiery oven 5 they are fet down here as few-ell, to fuffer what God's being incenfed in anger 3 as a confu-ming fire fwailowing tbemup* and devouring them in bis incomprehensible wraths doth import. 5. After the Lords vengeance is come upon the enemies of thrifts Kingdom, his curfe mall follow the works of their hands^ 3nd upon whatsoever they fought to make themfelves happy by in their life: and his vengeance fhall follow upon their pofterity, till he have rooted out their memoriall from among men. Their fruit f\)all he deflrey from the earth, and their feed from amongft the children of men.

Ver. 11. For they intended evil again ft thee : they imagined a mifchievom device^ which they are rmt *+ ble to perform.

For evidencing the Lords juftice* he giveth a reafon of this from the defigne which the enemies have to root out the Lords anointed, and his feed, vcr.i 1. Whence learn, 1. The malicious enemies of Chrifts Kingdome, (befide all the hatred they b-ivefhewn, and evil which tbey have done^ are ftill upon plots and defignes to overturn Chrifts Kingdome, and work Tbey intended evil againft thee. The enemies of Chrifts Kingdome

may

may poffibly conceive tbey ondy oppofe fuch as do trouble mens interefts, andnojas they arc the Lords children: yet ic is found, that what they do againft tbem, they doitagainft the Lord J. becaufe they do it againft hi$ children and fubje&s, for hiscaufcandfcrvicc. 2. Plot what the wicked pleafe againft thrift and his Church , they (hall not be able to accQmplifh their defigne or defire ; Tbey have imagined a mifebievous device y wbhb they are not able to performs 3. The evill which the wicked would.do, and do fet tbcmfelves to do, ftial be mack their dittay, and the reafon of their doom and deftru&ioa, as well as the cvill which they have done, if they repent not. For tbey intended, is here given as the reafon of the judgement.

Ver. 12. Therefore {halt thou make them turn their 6acl^, when thou Jbalt make ready thine arrowes upon thy firings , againft the face of them.

He cleareth their dittay and judgement yet more, verf. 1 i« reaching us, 1. That the Lord will fuffer his enemies to ma-nifeft themfelves in open oppofition ofc-times, before he fall upon them : for here they are found in the pbfture of purfuers, andoppofersof God, fetting their face againft him, when he cometh to execute judgement on them : Thou jbalt; mafe tbem turn their bac\. 2. When God falletb upon his enemies to be avenged upon chem, he ufeth to make them, and the beholders fee, that he hath fee tbem up as a mark to (hoot at: for He will mafy ready bis arrows, one after another, againft tbeface oftbem* 3. The Lords wrach flial fo meet his enemies in the teetb,where-ioever they turn, that they (hall be forced to fgrfake their pur-fuing of the Church. Tbou Jbalt rha\{e tbem tqffi thek bae\.

Ver. 13. Be thou exalted, Lord^ in thine ownftrength:

fo will we fing andpraife thy power.

Hecloferh thePfalroe with giving glory to God, including j alfo a prayer. Whence learner, 1. When the Lords Church is 'preferred from perfecutors, then the Lord is exalted. "Betbon I exalted, faith he. 2 When the Church is delivered* it is not

by her own ftrengttb but by the power of the Lord. Be thou

exalted inthine ownftrength. 3. Albeit the godly be put to I mourn for a time, yet when the Lord appearetn for them, tbey

get matter of joy to themfelves, and praife to God. So will we \ fing } and praife thy power.

I2 PSAL,

P S A L. XXII.

To the chief mufichn upon jjijehtbshibar, A Pfdme ofPavid.

This Pfalme is a Prophecy of Chriftsdeepeft Offerings, whereof "Davids exercife is a Type. The A-gonyof fpiritinChrift, and wreftling of Davids faith as the Type, isfet downe to 'v. 22- and the victory, and the outgate to the end of the Pfalme. In the exercife there are three corflids between fenfe and faith. The firft conflict,wherein thefenfe of trouble is fetdown, v. 1, 2. and faiths wreftling againft it, ^.3,4,5. Thefecond conflict,wher-in is the fecond affault of fenfe, ?>,6,7,&.and faiths wreftling againft it, ^.9,10,11. The third conflid wherein the third affault of fenfe is, v 4 1 2,13,14,15, 16,17,18. and faiths wreftlingwith it. v. 19,20,21. Then followes the victory, fct forth in a promife of praife, f.22. Secondly, in exhortation to all the godly, to praife the Lord, with a reafon from his experience, v. 23,24. Thirdly, in a renewing promife of praife and thanks, to the edification of the Church, v. 25. Fourthly, in a Prophecy of the encreafe of Gods glory in the earth, as a fruit of Chrifts fuffering and victory, ver. 26,27, 28,29. 30,31.

v.i.'\JfTGod y my God, why haft thou jorfaken me} XVJLwhy art thou io far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring ?

2. 0 my God, I cry in the day time, but thou hear eft notiAnd in the night feafon, and am not filent.

In this exercife of David the type, and of Cbrift represented here, both doe agree in chefe four things. 1. Both are under

the

the fenfe of wrath , and of oppreflfing trouble. 2. Both arc tempted to doubting and defperation. $. Both wreftlc againft the testation,and againft trouble, the occafion thereof y And 4. Both get the vidory. But they differ in thefe four thingsv 1. In themeafure of the trouble 5 Davids trouble was little in cornparifon of Cbrifts trouble j David laid not downe his life under trouble j but Chriftj trouble was incomparably more, and his foul made heavy unto death, and the trouble tookc his life from him. 2. In the manner of the trouble theydif-;■ fer 5 for Davids trouble was only a probatory exercife 3 wi:houc vindictive wrath, not acurfe 3 but a croffe, for trying of him, and training of him to beleeve againft fenfe , which trouble of bis paid no debt, neither his owne, norany othe s > but Cbrifts trouble was a vindidive and avengefull punilhment 5 for reall wrath was againft him, as he was bearing our fins, and the bitter curfe of the Law was caft upon him : for he was made a curfe 'for us, and his punifliment paid our debt, and was expiatory and fatisfadory to juftice. Thirdly, though both David and Chrift were tempted to doub-ing and defperation, yet Davids tentation could not be finlefle, becaufeof his fin fa It imperfections, common to him, t and all the reft of the godly 5 The ten* tation got fome advantage of him, becaufc of the imperfc-dion of his knowledge, faith, love, and abilities i and be-'caufs of the power of the body of origtnall fin in him. But ; Chriftspaffive tentation was altogether finleffe, and could not i have any fin at all on his part 5 for albeit he was tempted in ail things like unto us, yet it is faid, without fin. Becaufe when the I Prince of this world,Satan,came ar>d took effay of him,he found none of his ownituffein Chrift ; he had nothhginbimto work upon, and it was impoffible that fin could be in him , being the bolyoneoflfraelour fanftifier. Holy Lord God Almighty, and man alfoinoneperfon, J[(1*6.3, $ob. 12. 41. Fourthly, they differ in their wreftling, and vidory J for David w eftied not in bis own ftren ;th, got not the vidory in bis own ftrengtb, but in and through Cbrifts ftrengtb, who gave 'David a tafte onely, or a fmell rather, of the cup which he was to drinke ouc,unco the dregs,and wichtbedregs, and who helped him to wreftle by Faith. But Chrift wreftled and go: the vidory in his owne ftrength, which is one with the ftrength of the Father. For he is Jehovah our righeeoufneffe. In all the Pfalme we fliaR look upon every paffage, notfo much as it concerneth Vaviiiht typeV ! ;s wherein it concerneth Chrift the truth. In the firft conflid

13 * of

of the fenfe of trouble with faitb; Learn from the words as they arc Chrifts words, i. God is Chrifts God $ be being confide-rcd as God and man, in one perfon, entred in the Covenant of redemption with the Father as Mediator and Surety for men, That he (hall fatisfie juftice* and doe all the Fathers will in be-halfe of the Eled, and that God (hall-be bis God, and the God of all the Eled: redeemed by him. Therefore doth he here fay, My God, my God. 2. Faith, as it is a vertue giving perfect truft and credit unto Gods promifes made to his Son the Redeemer, is a part of that original holineffe in the man Cbritt,and a point ofhispcrfonallperfe&ion, futableto his imployment. This faith he profeffeth while he faitbjM) Godyny God. g. Chrift, as man lying under the curfe of the law for us, was really deftr-ted and forfaken for a time,in regard of all fenfible consolation: for it behoved him to bear the wrath, or effc&s of wrath, due to our fins really,fo far as might fatisfie for us, and relieve us from yvrath. Its true,the man Chrift could no more be forfaken , in regard of divine prefence fupporting him, then the perfonall union of the two natures could be diffolved : But in regard of fenfible con fol at ion, he was by way of punifhmentfor our fins, and by way of curfing our fin in him, really in our ftead for a while, deprived, as man, of the fenfe of the comfort of his own C?od-head. The fenfe of wrath filling now the foul of the man, to the brim, and running over. Therefore ("peaks he of his for-faking, Why baftthou forfa^cn mc\ 4. As fenfe and reafon can exprefle themfelves in feeming contradictory tearms , and ycx without contradi&ion can very well agree in their feeming oppofit, and inconfiftent expreflionss fo c*n faith and fenfe exprefle themfelves, in feeming contradictory termes, and yet ve-iy well agree 5 for as fenfe, and paine, and ikkneffe in the p3ti-enr, can in its owne language, and ftvle of naturall feeling, fay to the Chirurgion, cutting and lancing the fleftband to the Phy-fician who hath given a bitter poiionjou have burt me, you have made mtfic\ : when indeed in the IHIe of reafon and wit,he hath been healing the man, and recovering him from ficknefle. So fenfe of forrow,gricf, paine, and affliction, defertion,and wrath cm fpeak in the tearmes of naturall feeling, that which may feem to croflc, but doth not indeed croffe faith fpeaking in the tearms and language of fupernaturall Theological truth. Therefore My God, my God y fpokeninthe perfc&ton of faiths language, can very well a^ree with, IVbybafi thou forfik.cn mctvtfby art thou fo far from helping of me, and from the words of my roaring*?

fpoken

P S A L. XXII, up

fpoken here in the language of perfect naturall fenfe > for perfect faith, and perfc&naturall fenfe were incur Lord Cbrift, very God,and very man, and compleatly boly. 5* Bitter was the Cup of Divine wrath* which Cbrift did drinke : great was the price our Redeemer paid, co ranfome us, when the fenfe thereof drew forth of his Majefty fuch expreffions. Thus faith and feeling may both fpeak, each of them their owne language to God in one breath , as here they do. Now as tbcfe words are Davids, who bad in him finfull corruption of nature, Learne 1. Senfe,and tentation, and corrupt future, may rcprefen: God inhisdifpenfationstohis own children, as if he bad forfaken altogether, and regarded not their bard condition , and would nothelpe,as here is fhewen in Davids experience. 2. Faith mould corred fenfe, and refute tentations, and bridle affections, and not fuffer their words to goe forth, exprefsing fenfe or appearance of doubting of Gods favour, till firft faith fpeak 5 and goe before, and faften its gripes on the Covenant 5 as here faith gocth formoft, and calleth the Lord, My God , my Cjod> before that fenfe utter a word. 5. Atone time, 2nd in one exercife, thefe three may concur; 1. Defertion in the point of comfort. 2. Growing trouble without help feen. ami $. Apparent rejecting of prayer: And thefe three joyned together do fet fore upon the faith of a child of God. For continuance of trouble * it a fore tentarion, albeit comfort be now and then mixed .• want of fenfible comfort, mixed < with trouble, doubieth the burden, and difquieteth the mind much : but to feem to lofe labour in prayer, made for either help or comfort, is the heavieft part of the exercife, / cry dxy and night, and thou heareft not, is a fad condition. 4. In this cafe it is the beft remedy, to lay the worft of our thoughts fingle before the Lord, and to tell him wbatfocver is fuggefted to us, and not to be Secretars to Satan; but to rcVfeale our felves fully to God, and fix our felves on the Covenant of Grace, wherein we have clofed with him 5 yea, and to double and treble our gripes of, My God.

3. But thou art holj^ O thou that inhabitefi the praifes of Ifrael.

4. Our Fathers trufled in thee: thej trufted , and thoudidft deliver thept.

5. They crjed unto thee , and were delivered : thij. trufled in thee, and were not confounded.

Now Faith having fpoken wibScnfe, and grapled with the tcntation, fpeaketb alone? that it may prevail. Whence learn, J. Were tentations never fo black, Fauh will not hearken to an ill word fpoken againft God,but will juftifie God alwayes > This (hould be our part in time of greateft perplexity,to fay, But tboti art holy. 2. It is wifedqme for a foul in a fad exercife, to take fide and pate with Faith, to gather arguments to ftrengthen ir, to divert the minde from thinking ftinonitscalamity? and to fet it upon the comemplation of Gods perfections in himfelfe, and toward us in hisGofpel, and of the paffages of his providence toward his people* whereby he bath purchafed conftanc praifes at their hands : In the right of which praues and poffef-fion whereof,God is rcfolvedto keep himfelf and to dwel therein as in a habitation wherein he delights to remain. O tbou tbit inbMtefi the praifes of IfraeL $. It is wifedome to look to the carriage of the Godly in former times: Our Fathers trufted intbee. To their trufting, and rrufting in God conftandy in their trouble ; they trufted in tbee^tbey trufted, and the third time they trufted : and to look upon their patient depending on God, doubling their diligence in calling on bim 5 as their ftraits did gtow jhey cryedjtbey trufted: and to remember that they did never feek Cjod in vain 5 but every one of them were delivered, and not confounded; for this direction is holden forth to us in this example^ which our Lord Jefus could well make ufc of for our confolation, and whereof David made ufe for his owne upholding.

6. Btttlzmawormeandno man, a reproach of men, and defpifed of the people.

7. AH they that he me,laugh me to fcotn: they /hoot cut the lip, they Jhake the head, faying,

8* Hetrufiedon the Lord , chat he would deliver him 1 let him deliver him, feeing he delighted in him.

The fecond conflift, wherein the fenfe of trouble h fet forth as a new aflTaulting of Faith. Whence learn, 1. Never was any child of God before Chrift> under fo much mifcry as Chrift was himfelf; His own heavens? his own Father, his own godhead did hide their face and confolation from him ; Our (ins willingly taken on him, and Gods wrath preffed the weight of puniftimenr with the full power of Juflicr, both upon his foul smd body: Thefc for whom he dyed defpifed him, he himfelfe

being

P S A L. XXII. lax

beinj emptied of all things which make men refpeded to the world, and depiefled lower then ever any man was, as a worme to be trod upon,he was made a matter of common- Talk,and re-. p oach in all mens mouths > fet at nought by the bait ft of the people J derided, and fcorned inbismoftboly behaviour > fporr* and matter of laughter was made of his fuffsrings > malice feeding it felfe with pleafure, upon his paine and mifery , and expressing it felfe with the bafeft fignes ot difgrace, which difdain could devife, for flouting of bim, mocking of his faving do-drine^andfaichfuli teftimeny given unto it 5 infulting over him, as if he bad been neicher Gods Son, nor an boneft man: and all this was counted little enough for fatisfadion tcjuftice, exa&ing of him, as the due puniftimen: of our fins , wbatfoever is imported in the fad exprefsions, let down in the Text. 2. As the more mifery the children of God are under, the more doth tentation make their mifery feem weighty, for bearing down of

j their confidence inGod:So the more that mifery fecmeth to grow, and the world to turn their back on Gods children in their tryals, the more fhould they draw neer to God,and 1 ay ouc their cafe before hinb as here we are taught by this example. 3. Let no man wonder to be defpifed of men, and mocked for religion > for fo was the man according to Gods own heart,and Cbrift«our Lord mocked more then any, in his fad fufferings . Let Cjod deliver

i bim> feeing be deligbtetb in bim, faid his enemies.

9. But thou art he that took^me out of the wombe; j thou didflmakeme hope,when I was upon my Mothers ■ hrefis.

10, 1 was caft upon thee from the wombe : thou art my God from my mothers belly.

ll Be not far from me , for trouble is neer\ for there jS none to help.

Here faith oppofeth wbatfoever the complaint could imporr, to the prejudice of confidence , and labouretbto itrengthen it felfe by all arguments. Wbencelearn, 1. As Satan maketh af-fault after affault,againtt Faith, upon new reprefentations of calamity and mifery $ fo we fhould raife bulwark after bulwark for defences and after we have looked upon other mens experiences before us,we fhould recount our own experiences of Gods care towards us, and fhould make ufe of all that the Lord hath done unto us, for ourftrengthnlng $ forfo dcth this example

teach

teach us. 2. Albeit meninafit of misbelief, will admit no proofe of Gods refped unco them, except Angularities, and will queftion alfo fpeciall grace, when it is given ; yet the humbled belcever is fo wife, as to make ufe of the moft common benefit which the man hath received from God for confirmation of his owne faiths even the ordinary work of our conception, frame of body, birth, and education mayfufficcus to draw in to God who made us, and hath done fo much for us ( ere we could implore him, or doe any thinj for our [elves)as may incourage us to come to him,and feek his favour^ wbatfoever objection can be made to the contrary,- for this example teacheth us fo to doe, 3. Seeing the Lord doth many things for us, which in the time when he doth them for us, we doe not obferve 5 it is our duty to look upon them afterwards,tbat they may fuinifli us with matter of praife to God and faith in himjfor fo doth this example teach us. 4.Whatfoever inftruments & means the Lord makeh tufe of, the ipirituall eye pierceth through them, 'and looketh on God as worker of all things, for and upon them, from their cradle. Thou toofyft me out of my mothers mmbe. 5. Children borne within the Covenant have God for their God, from their nativi-ty,and may lay their reckoning fo y and wbenfoever they would draw neer to God, to make ufe of the Covenant, they may fay, Thou art my God from my Mothers belly. 6, The approaching of trouble, and neernefle of danger mould draw us neer to God, whoin aninftantcan inrerpofe himfelfe between us and the efill: and the leffe help we have befide the Lord himfelfe, the more hope may we have to be helped by God 5 This is the Prophets plea, Be not far from me, for trouble is neer, &c.

12. Many Buls have compared me :ftreng buls of r BaJhan have befet me round,

ly Thej gaped upon me with their mouths , as a ravening and roaring Lion.

From ver.i a.to 22. is the third conflld of Senfc with Faith, upon the consideration of the multitude, power and cruelty of his enemies, compared with his own infirmity, now emptied of all ftrengtb to refift tbemjand tbefe are mixed one with another. The enemies terriblenefie is firit fet forth, then bis emptineffe and weakneffe by turnes, to v. 1 9. unto all which faith oppofeth it felfe, by prayer to God, to v. 22. He compareth (v.12,13.^ bis perfecucors to Bnlsjnavj buls> ftrong, cruel ^gaping, roaring,

devouring

devouring; Lions. Whence ktrnji. The perfecutors of Chrift and his people, are but beaftly^ fenfuall bodies, fold to this pre-fent world, and deftituteof grace and humanity ; more like in their rage to favagebeafts then toracionall mtn j commonly alfothey are men of riches, and worldly power, fed unlfatBuls^ and many in number, all of them ready for an ill turne , and fo cruel,that nothing leffe will fatisfie them,tben blood and Slaughter, as they are here described. And no wonder that Chrifts fer-vantsihall finde it forn their cafe, feeing Chrift himfelfe and bis fervants before us have had experience of fuch enemies.

14. I am poured out like V? at errand all my bones ar? out ofjoynt: my heart is like wax, it is melted in the midft of my bowels.

15. My ftrength is dryed up like a ptjheard : axd mj tongue cleaveth to myjwaes j and thou hafi brought

1 me into the daft of death.

What the Lord wrought upon his body, and naturall fpirits* and ftrengthj is here fet downe. Whence learn, 1. It was determined by £od, that with outward perfceution of Chrift , by bis cruel adverfaries, the Father fhould bruifehimand breake him inwardly alfo, and punifh him with all feverity : for here bis fuffering is in body and minde, in flifti and bones 3 in his natural! fpirit^and natural courage,in beart,and whole ihengtb, that in nothing he mould be unpunished.wherein we linners arc found polluted , to the intent that he being fully emptied 3 the ranfome might be full j he is poured out Ufa inter, and emptied of ail that the created humane nature could furnifli. The ter-rourof Divine Juftice and wrath did in a manner loofe all the foynts of his body, fo that natural! courage, before the dread full avenger of fin,did fail; his heart was made (oft Ufa vpjlx to receive and keep the impreiTion of Divine terrour, till juftice vhould be I fatisfiedj and was diffolved like wax, in the point of refolution ; to withftand iu It is melted in the midft of kis bowels, his na-I turall ftrength is dryed, burnt up like a potflieardy baken in the fire 3 bis mouth was ftopped from all defence and apology- for he was content to be holdenas guilty,ftanding in our room.rberc-prehis tongue cleaved to his jaws. And in a word, the hand of God exa&etb the full price of hm , and .brings him downe fojr i ss there is not a bit of him free of the punifhmenr. Tboujaiih he, baft brought me into the dufi of death. This PavU bad but a tafte

of

of in his deepcft trouble ; Vht verity and weight of this, is to be found only in Cbrift,of whom this was prophecied, that it fhouldcome, and indeed is come, done and ended, and foit behoved to be-

16. For doggshave compajfeA me ,• the ajfembly of the wicked have inclofedme: they piercedmy hands and iny feet.

Againe be bringethfonh his enemies part, to mew us that Orifts enemies were to prove but bloody doggs, when they fhould be let loofe upon him, whom nothing but Crucifie him, crucifie bim,could fatisfie • and fucb will they be itil} who per-fecute his Cburch. Next,to fbew,tbat although his enemies were to be the aflkmWy of the vifible Church, for open profeffion, yet byreje&ingof his grace, and oppofing of him, in Gods fight and eftimacion, ttiey were holden for the ajfemblyof the wicked. Tbirdiy>to forefhew the death of the Croffe to be appointed for Cbrift, it ii faid, They pierced my bands and my feet.

17. I may tell all my bones : they look^ and ft are upon me.

18. They pan my garments among them , and caft lots upon my veflure.

Another, and further point of Cbrifts fore-propbecied fuf-fering, is bis nakednefle on the Crofie, and the difcovery of his Lane body (being wafted with decreed forrows) and the gating of his enemies upon him hanging on the Croffe, and the parting of his garments among the fouldiers, and the cafting of lots for his upper garment, becaufe it was woven, and could not be divided. Whence learn, 1. All that out Lord Jefus fuffered, was before decreed and agreed upon,betwixt the Father and the Son, and foretold by Cbiift bimfelfe long hefore his incarnation, fpeaking by his fpirit in his Prophets^ as here appearetb, by the defcription of our Lords death and paflion, fo plainly and particularly, as if it were a Hiftory, and not a Prophecy. 2. Befide paine of body, leanneffe of flefli, with daily forrows and trouble of fpirit, thdeaft dif^race done to our Lord, the lead wrong took unto him, the leaft injurie in the matter of bis cloatbing, are all reckoned up in his fundings, all counted up in the price of redemption, that there may be nothing inlacking in the pu-niftiment of our cautioner, whereby Gods juitice might be ia-

tisfied,

r isfied> or our confciences quieted for the expiation of our fin, by his iuffering in body, foule, fame, apparell, and every other thing elfc, wherein juftice could overtake the guilty.

Ver. 19. But be not thonfar from me, O Lord, O myftrength, haft thee to he If me.

Unto this laftaffaulr, faith oppofeth prayer for divine afli-ftance,for ftrength to bear out, and tor delivery, in all which he was heard. Whence learn, 1. Faith is made victorious over all af-faults, by opening of its tentations to God* and putting up prayer to him for help, as here is feen. 2. If God mall nor withdraw his fwect prefence for fupporting a foule, albeit ic mould not find his prefence for comforting of it, fupporting prefence mayfuffice in a time of fad exercife; for this mucb did fatisfie our God in his agony. Be net thou far from me, 0 Lord. 3. Faith findeth God to be is ftrength when the be-iliever is emptied of bis own ftrength 5 0 wy ftrength, faith Da m vid the type > and Chrift as man by him represented* 4. As the haft of our necefsity doth require, we may without limitation requeft the Lord to hafte ; Hafte tbee to help me* I

Ver. 20. Deliver my foul from the [word: my darling from the power of the dog.

21. Save me from the lions mouth : for thou haft heard me from the horns of the unicorns.

He prayeth to be delivered from the violent blood-fhedder, jand bloudy deggiih perfecutor, and from the crueil lion-like oppreflbur, and then faith prefemiy, that be h beard and delivered from the power of the enemies which were letting upon him, as Unicorns. Now concerning David the matter is dear; for he was delivered fo from his enemies, that they got not his life : But of Chrift thequeftion may be, how he was deli— vercd 3 feeing his life is taken': For anfwer, (^twiR. here doth fay, that he was delivered J and fo it was indeed 5 for when he had payed the price, he was not holden by the bonds of death, and the grave, but rofe again the third day. Whence learne, 1 •; Chrift was no leffe delivered from dogs, lions, unicorns, his perfecuting enemies, by bis refurre&ion after death, then if he had been taken out of their hands, when they came to ap-prehenihim in the Garden 5 yea, this delivery out of the grave, was a farre greater delivery then if be had not been flain at all;

For

For then be had deliverd himfelfe onely, and not us: Bat now by the laying down of his life, he bath difcharged himfelfe of bis furetilhip for us, and delivered us with himfelf, and fo hath faved bothnimfelfe. and us * yea, by bis rifing out of the grave, he is demonilrace more fully to be the Son of God, then by any of hfc miraculous efcapings oucfrem the hands of the multitude, when they were about to apprehend him- Thou baft beard me, that is, delivered me. 2. To get vidory over trouble, is a no leffe glorious delivery from trouble, then to be preferved from falling into trouble $ yea, its a more glorious delivery* For the troubles are broken, by falling on the believer, like waves of the fea on the rock, and the believer remainecb victor, and fetled as a rock. 3. Ic is a notable argument of confidence to be heard by way of delivery, when a man can fay be hath in extreamity of danger prayed, and bath been heard as a Supplicant; Save me, for thou baft beard me from the horns of the unieorns.

Ver. 22. / rvitl declare thy name unto my brethren : in the midfi of the congregation will I praifethee.

After the conflict, the vi&ory and out-&ate by way .of thanksgiving is (et down, to the end of the Pfaime, wherein Davids part is but a little fhidow, and is fwallowed up here in Chrifts glory, mining in the fruits of his paflion and re* furre&fcm. Learn from Davids part: That delivery forefeen by faith, worketh in fome fort the effefts of the delivery paft in tScd ? to wic, quietnefle, peace, joy, and thankfgiving $ $s here is tobefeen. From thrifts part promifing and pro-phecying of the fruits of bis death and refurre&ion, Learn 1. Chrift, though he be God Almighty, yet by reafon of his incarnation, for the redecmeds (ake, he is not aihameed to call them Brethren. 2. The preaching of the Goipellof Chrifts fatisfadion for our fins by death, and of his refurreclion for our jultificarion, is the matter of great praile to God* and comfort to the redeemed : Ivoili declare, faith Chrift, thy name to my brethren. 3. In the right preaching of the Gofpel, the Mi-nifters are in effed but Cbriits voice. Chrift himfelfe it the principall Prophet and Preacher: ForI> faith he, will declart thy name in the miift of the gnat Congregation 5 to wir^ of the whole Cathoiick Church on earth.

Ver. 23. Te that fear the Lord, praife him j all ye

thz

the feedof Jacob,glorifie him % and fear him, all je the feed of IfratL

24. For he hath not defpifed, nor abhorred the affile Elion of the afflitted : neither hath he hid his facefrom him, but when he cried unto him, he heard.

Heexbortethall that fear God, to praife and glorifie God, bccaufe of Chrifts vi&oric, and Gods hearkening unto his in-terceffion made for the redeemed. Whence learn, 1. Such as are macle partakers of the benefit of Chrifts pafston, and re-furre&ion, are chiefly called, and bound to praife God for their redemption, and to fear God more and more, that tbey may be more and more fitted to praife and glorifie him; for of a fan&ified mouth onely will God accept praife. Te that fear the Lord, praife bimy All ye feci of Jacob, glorifie him; and fear hmyallyt the feed of Ifrael. i< The Fathers hearkening unto Chrifts intercefsion,, and delivering of him from ouriin, and our deferred puniihment laid upon him, is the common benefit of all the redeemed, the matter of their common thankfgiving and praife, and the matter of their aflurance of their delivery from fin and death; Of the certainty of which delivery Chrifts deliverance is both a caufe, and apawn, For he hath not hid his facefrembim, but when he cried, he heard him. 3. Neither jthe ienfe of a mans own meaneffe, and defpicableneffe, nor the mean eftimation that the world hath of him, will prejudg him when be is fupplicant at the Lords band. For be hath notdefpi-fed, nor abhorred the afflictions of the afflified.

25. My praife (hall be of thee in the great congregation : I will pay my voices before them that fear him.

He renewetbthe promife of tbankf^iving, which as it concerned David, teacheth, 1. That the purpofe of praiiing of Qfod, is no light motion in the hearts of bistbildren* when the Lord hath given them experience of bis refpeel to them, 'but a fixed and folid refoiution to (?t forth thegoodneffe of God before others. For bene berencwetb his promife to praife. 2. The Lord, and the Lord only, is the Theme which the believer handleth in point of praife J no other fubjeft of praife acknowledged be; ZMy praife jhall be of rbce^&c $. The opportunity of time, place and perfons, offered for praifing of !9°d> ought to be taken, and made ufe of bf every one, according

ding to their calling : My praife Jhall be of thee in thegieat congregation. 4. Durics, fpcciaily when lying upon us by voir 6r oaths, ought to be the more heeded, and made conscience of: J mil pay my vowes before tbem that few him. As this con* cerns Chrifts undertaking, it teachcth, 1. The Son of God> and promiled Son of David., Chiilt Jefus, by all the work of redemption, ftudietb, as to bring falvation to his elect, fo to honour the Father,faying htxz.fMy praife fhal he of thee in the great ^congregation, z. Albeit our Lord harh finifhed all his undertaking for the payment of the price and ranfome of redemption, yec hath he not yet performed all which he h3th undertaken for making ufc of his purchafed falvation, unto the enlarging of the glory of his Father, and gathering into the great congregation all his redeemed ones to be wcrfhippers of the Father in Spirit and truth : But as he is ftill upon this work from generation to generation, fo is he willing ftill to lie under this engaoemenr, and thefe vowes, till he perform them to the full : 1 will pjy my vowes before tbem that fear him.

Ver. 26- The meek^ Jhall eat and be fatisfied: they

/ball praife the Lordthat feek him^ jour heart flail live

forever.

He alludeth to the manner of offering of peace off.ringSj where the godly friends concurring intbethankfgiving,had aihare in the feaft of what was facrificed. Whence learn, 1. The mercy bellowed upon one of the godly, fervech to rtfrefti the fouls of the reft s and in fpeciall there is a banquet prepared for the fouls of the redeemed by the purchafe of Chrifts fact ifice,whcre-of the humbled believer is made pa taker • The metlfi fball cat y and be fatisfied. 2. Albeit the believer, at all times, do riot find the (weetneffe of this feaft, but be put to work a ter a meal received^ put to fight after a fcait, and made hungry after a new meal^ and be made to pray ror i:> and to feck after the Lord in the ule of the medns 5 yet fha!l he eat a^ain in due time, and be fatisfied: For they fhall praife the Lord that fccfi bim> is as much as they .that leek him, fhall find fomuch as (hall make them both to have caufe of praifing^and alfo in efTeft to praile him. 3. Waatfoever alterations or vicifsitudes of things be in the condition of humble believers, feeking more and more communion wuhGod,tbey may be fure of eternal life, befide what they get by way of earneft in this life. For the Spiritof theLord directing his fpcech to thenljhath faid,T0«r heart jhall live for ever. Ver*

Vcr. 27. All the ends of the world jhall remernbe r * and turn unto the Lord; and all the kindreds ofth* nations Jhall w or [hip before thee.

28. For the Kingdome is the Lords , and he is the Governour among the nations.

Now folbowetb fpeciall prophcfies of the enlargement of Chrifts Kingdom: wherein the l J rophet by the Spirit of pro-phefie dothfpeak, and teach us. t. That the calling of the Gentiles after Chrifts refurre&ion , was a concluded matter with God, whereof he gave warning long before ic came, which though it be come to pafle, yet not in lo ample ameafure, as may be yet further expefted, becaufe for the making of thefe woeds yet more clearly feen to be fulfilled, icihallcome to pafs that all the ends of the world Jhall remembet. i- So long as men (hall lye unconverted, they know not what they are doing, they are as men fleeping, or diitra&ed, not making ufe fo much as of the very principles of truth, which by the light of common reafon from infpeclion of the creatures may be learned, concerning the invifible things of Gods But when the light of Chrifts Gofpel fhineth in upon their heart, They are made to remember and turn to the Lord. 3. Such as are converted, do make God the objed of their worfliip, do imbrace his enemies, and fubje&themfelvestohis lawes and difcipiine; For they worjhip before bim> become fubjefts to him, and that by che powerful! fubduing of them to himfelf : For the J&ngdomi ii the Lords, and be is Governour among the nation*\

Ver. 29. All they that be fat upon earth Jhall eai and worjhip : all they that go downe to the duft Jhdl fan? before him y and none can \rep alive his own foul.

30. Afeedfhallfervehim: It Jhall be accounted to the Lord for a generation.

31. 'They Jhall come, and declare his righteo h) nejfe unto a people that Jhall be born , that he hath done this,

A further clearing of this Propbefie of Chrifts JCingdome ? enlarged among tb? Ckmiks % iVhencc lexm 2 1. That Kings,

K %&

Rulers, and Magiftraces fhallhave nocaufeof jealoufie from Chrifts Kingdom, and bis governing over nations. For fo many of tbem as fhall imbrace Jefus Chrift, not only may brook tbeit places, honours, riches, and all lawfull benefits, wherein tbeir fatnefle and worldly welfare feemeth toconfift, but alfo Jhall be made partakers of the delicaus of che Lords houfe,whieh (hall fo fatisfie their foules, as they (hall count bis Gofpel tbeir choice chear, and (hall bleife God for his confolations > for ic's promifed to all Cbrifts true fubjeSs, who are in high place, Ait they that be fat upon earth Jhdl eat and worjhip. 2. As the higheft condition worldly fliall not be hurt by obedience to Chrift, but helped, for the benefit of the true believer ', fo believers in the meaneft condition they can be in on earthy (hall find reliefe, com fort,and making up of all their in-lacks in Jefus Ctirift, and (hall fall down and worfhip their rich and boun-tifull Lord : All that go down to the duji Jhall bow he-forebim. $. Wbofoever fliall not come to Chrift to be faved by him ihall perifli, and tb$y that- come unto him, (hall bee forced to hold their falvation of him. For none cm \etp alive his own foule: This is the proper work of the only Saviour Jefus. 4. Albeit every particular perfon, in every Nation, andKingdomc^ be no converted unto Chrift ; yet fo many pcrfons of all ranks, out of all nations, (hall be converted , as (hill make evident Chrifts power, and Soveraignity, to conquer fubje&s to himfelfe at bis pleafurc, even as many as may perpetuate his Kingdom, and the fuccefsion of wor-fltippers of him from one generation to anothei 5 For a fecdjhal ferve him, it Jhall be accounted to the Lord for a generation: He will make Utile reckoning of the reft, whom he conveneth not. .5. Albeit there be little appearance of accomplifhing proprieties and promifes of the propagation of Chrifts Kingdom from age to age, yet the promife and prophecie (hail be fulfilled. They Jhall come, who (hall receive the Do&rine of. Chrifts righteouf-neffe by faith in him, and jhall declare this righteoufnejfe of faith,and Gods faichfulncffe in promife keepings another gene-ration 3 unto a people tbatjhal be born*6. The wholework of redemption, converting of fouls,comfoiting of fouls^propagation of the do&rine of righteoufnefs,& manifeftationof Gods glory thereby, (hall from age to age be declared to be the work of God himfelfe, which he doth by his inftrumentsj and means. They Jlull declare to tbeir children, and fucccflburs, that Goihathdont

this;

tbk'y to wit, all that is fpoken of here, or elfewhere in hi s word: [To a people that JhaU be born, tbat be bttb dm tbk.

PSAL. XXIII.

t/i Pfalm of David,

ThisPfalme is theexpreflion of the Prophets confidence in Gods grace, wherein from the fctling himfelfin the belief of our covenanted relatioq,be-tween God and hiip,he doth draw fundry eomfor* table conclufions and confirmations of faith t from it, concerning the Lords furnifhing every necef-fary good thing to him, ver. 1,2. for recovery of him from every cvill condition, wherein he may fall,i>fr. 3. And for afllfting and comforting birri in the greateft danger he could fall into, ver. 4. And for making him blefled in defpite of bis enemies, ver. 5. And for his continuing in Gods grace, and fellowfhip for ever, ver. 6.

Verf i.'Tpffr Lord is mj Shepbeard, I /ball not JL Vvant.

He layeth down for a ground his relation to God, and tber.$s confirmech his affurance to have the fruits thereof. Whence karn> i. The Lord is content to demit himfelfe to be compared unto any thing which may import his love, and refpect and care of bis own. As here for our comfort he is pleafed co be called a Sbtpbc&rd. 1. The grounds of our faith in God* making us to have right unto him by covenant, fhould be foiidlylaid, and thefe being firmly laid, then comfortable conclufions mayjand ftiould be drawn from thence^ as here the Prophet doth. 3. Ir^ fpcciall whatfoever fweet relation the believer ftandeth in wiife God 3 he may affure himfelfe of all the fruus, and good, which

& a that

tbat relation can import. As here having faid, The Lord is mf Sbepbe&rd, heaffureth himfelfe then, bejlmllnotrfiint^ co wit, what fuch a Shepherd Teeth neceffary for fuch a iheep.

Ver. 2. He mctketh me to lie down in green pafiures; he leadeth me befidethe flill Waters.

Ver. 3. He refiereth my foul: be leadeth me in the paths of righteottfnejfe, for his Names fakf*

He goeth on numbring the benefit following from the fore-faid relation,panly mewing what experience he bath had, partly ' aifuring himlelf what further to find. Whence lentn, i. As the Shepherd provideth good and wholefome pafturage for his fheep, and a place of fafety and reft, with the commodity of all needfull refrefhment ofcalme running waters: So doch the Lord furnifti the food of life ro the believer with quiet reft, and fatisfaftion of timous coniblation, by his word and fpirit: Hemaketb me lie down in green paftures ,&c. i- In is poflible through # the evill that is in us, we fall in decay of graces, in ficknefles of divers forts ; yea, and that we wander away from the Shepherd, and fociety of the flock iometime. In which cafe we fhould perifh, if our carefull Lord did not apply himfelfe to our neceffities, to relieve us 5 for it is be that reftoretb our foul. It is he that reclaimeth us from our wandrings : it is he that dt-re&etb u c , arid keepeth us from going on ftill in by-paths. He leadetb me> faith he, in tbe paths of rigbteoufneffe. $. It is not for any good we deferve, or have done, or can do, for which he taketh fuch care of his weak and fooliih children. It is for the glory of his free-grace, conitant love, and fworn covenant, even for bis own Barnes fa^e.

Ver. 4. Tea though / walk, through the valley of thefhadow of death+1 will fear none evill : for thou art with me 1 thy rod and thy ftaffe they comfort me.

He prefuppofeth he may fall in new, and harder troubles, then ever he fell in before, and yet hopes to be delivered therefrom. Hence learn, 1. The believer in hhbeft condition msy not promife to bimfelfq immunity from trouble, cr perils >

but

but muft prepare for the worft, even to be put to extream danger of periling, and in fucb darkneffe as were moft like, and near ("unto death.) To walk through the valley of the JhadovP of death, where (beep may fall in the pit; or be fallen upon bye-very devouring beaft in the dark. 1. The fruit of former deli-very out of trouble, mould encourage us to hope for deliverance out of whatfoever new troubLe we may fall into, as the Prophets example doth teach. 3. Faith after a victory is very ftout, and hath warrant indeed to be fo, and may, and mould refolve to beftout by Gods grace J howfoever when trouble cometh

I (which is the touch-ftone ofthe ftrength of faith) it may dif~ difcover weakneffe for a time. For here David faith, I ml fear

; no evils though I walk through the valley of the Jhadowof death ^ 4. The consideration of Gods covenanted prcfence whh his' own in trouble, and of bis power to protect and deliver them,

; and of his wifdomeand goodneffe to make bis own profit by

I troubles,may 3 and mould comfort the believer againft the fear of perilling in whatfoever trouble. For 7)avid givech this as a rea-fonof not fearing evill. Thou art.with me, thy rod and thy ftaffe they comfort me.

I

^ 5. Thou prepare^ a Table before me in the pre fence ;i ef mine enemiesy thou annointefl my head with o]l\ my \ C#p runneth over. ■

From the grounds of his Faith, confirmed by 'experience, he feeth flill fatisfa&ion from God 3 wbogivetbthe banquet to him, as it were in his enemies fight. Whence learn, Albeit iome-thne the beleever may be put to hardship and hazard, for trying and training of his faith 5 yet fometimes alfothe Lord will give him rich evidents of bis love and kindneffe unto him, if not in both outward and inward benefits, yet at leaft in (pirituall con-folations comparable to a royall feaft, as here, Tbou preparcft a Table before me. 2, Although the enemies of the godly, are not few, both bodily and fpirituall, all concurring to mar the Felicity, of tbe Lords children, yet mail they not be able to hinder their fenfe now and then of fatisfa&ory bleffedneffe, maugre them al,for as ofc as God teeth fit,he giveth his ownthe banquet, in the prcfence of his enemies. 3, Whenitpleafeth the Lord to comfort a bclecver, and to give him the banquet/here is nothing

K J wanting

wanting during the time of the Lords comfortable entertaining of him, which may, ftrengthen him, or re Joyce him $ but as much given unto him fenfibly, as may make him fay , Thou an-nomteftmy bead with oyl.andmy cup runneth over, Pfalme 91. 10. 104. if*

6. Surely geodneffe and mercy fball follow me all the days of my life : and I will dwell in the houfe of the Lord for ever.

He ftieweth that in his former fpeeches,he meant not of earthly benefits, although thcfe alfo be worthy of acknowledgement^ and of tbankfgiving for tbem $ But of fpirituall mercies, by this, that be is allured of the continuance thercof,in this life,and in the life to come. Whence learne. 1. The delight and fatis-fa&ion of the beleever is not in any earthly portion,but in Gods good will and pity toward him 5 Gods goodnefTe and mercy is the matter of his contentment. 2. An humble beleever, who in bis own eyes is like a weak witleffe fheep, and yet doth follow the Shepherd , may aflure himfelf from the Covenant relation between God and him, of the conftancy of Gods good will 5 and a&uall ou r .letting of liberal! gifts of good thingf unto him, and of removing of evils, both of fin,, and of the fruits of it, and be perfwaded of his own perfeverance in the way to falvation , all the dayes of bis life $ for here is an inftance for it, Surely goodnejfe and mercy Jhall follow me all the days of my life. $. As a beleever may be allured of the conftant courfe of pods love to follow him, and of his own perfevering in the way of life, fo may he be perfwaded of eternall life , and everlafting communion with God in heaven. And this perfe&eththe felicity of the beleever j and no lefi'c can doe it then this-I mlldvel in the boufe of the Lord for ever.

PSAL.

PSAL XXIV.

tA ?[aim of David.

The Pfalmift having in th e firft place fet down Gods Lordfliip in the world, that he may thereby commend the fpeciall Prerogative of the true Church, ver.1,2. defcribeth in the next place the true Citizens of this fpirituall Kingdome, ^.3,4,5,6. And exhorteth in the third place all Incorporations, and in fpeciall the vifible Church, to accept the offer of a more intire communion with God in Chrift, that they may enjoy the fpirituall privi-ledges of the fub jefts of the invilible and fpirituall Kingdome, ^.7,8,9,10.

v.i.* m T* K He Earth is the Lords ^ and the fulneffe there-X of-jhe world, and they thav d.well therin. 2. For he hath founded it upon the feas^nd eftahli-Jbed it upon the floods.

From the Lordfhip and Soveraignty of God over all the world. Learne, i, The Lords power and authority over the Saints, confidered in their naturall condition^ is no leffe rhen o-ver the reft of the worlds and the Lord is no more bound to one then ro another, laying afide the decree of his owne good will and pleafure i The earth is the Lords and the fulnejje thereof, the world and they that dwell therein. 2. The earth is fo full of the riches of Gods bounty toward man as it can hold } and the (landing miracle of the dry land , lifted up contrary to the nature of that element* which is to be above 3 and much hi gher then the element of water * is a ftanding evidence of Gods power and care imployed to make a habitation for man 5 For be bath founded the edrtb upon the feas, and eftablijlxd it upn the floods , commanding the element of water to goe down below the earth , as if it were the foundation thereof.

X 4 Who.

3. Who Jhall afcend into the hill of the Lord > and Who Jbjllfland in his holy place ?

4. He that hath cleave hands, and a pure hearty rrho hath not lift up his foul unto vanity,nor fworne deceitfully.

5. He Jhall receive the blejfing from the Lord: and righteonfnejfe from the God of his [Uvation.

6. This is the generation of them that feek^ him : xhatfee\ thy face, O Jacob. Selah.

'Inthe fecond place he cometh to the fpecuil dominion of God and Chi ill in th$ Church, and asketb for the marks and priviledges of the true fubje&s of this Kingdome. Wbenof*' learn, 1. God hath chofen a Church out of all the earth , to be bis peculiar people, with whom he may converfe , and to whom be may give priviledge of communion for ever with himfclfc > he bath his own holy & high fo7/,De>bath his own holy place.toWuy a holy unrverfal Chuicb^reprefented by the bill ofSion, lifted up above the inferiour valleys 5 he hath bis holy Tabernacle, where he giveth the fignesof his prefence, Feparate from the common multitude and worldly affairs5 who jl)all afcend into tbc bill ofthe Lor i, and who jhall ft and in bis holy place ? He compareth the invisible Church, to a hill or mountains and the holy place , becaufc Gods true Church indeed for firmeneffe, durabienefle 3 dignity above all other Incorporations,and fpirituall fublimity, is like a bill above the plaine, 1 if tcvd up above all the world, a holy Society, wherein God delightetb to dwell. 2. Not every one who is a member of the vihble Church, but only true Converts, who make uptheinvifible Church , have the honour and bappinefle of afcending unto the fpirituall ufe^ end, meaning and profit of the Ordinances of God in his Church, and of keeping conftanc communion with God in heaven, reprcfented by ftanding in ibe holy place. Therefore forftirring up of outward profeflors of religion, to examine themfclves, leaft they be miftaken and fo

Jeriih > the queftion is here made to God to fhew who Jhall a-cendtobisbiiiy and who JbaU ftand in bis holy place. 3. The marks of a Citifcert of the inviiible Church and Kingdome of God, are fuch onely, as God arid a mans own confeience can loundly judge of 5 to wic 3 faith in God, manifefted by endeavoured

dcaroured fan&ity of thoughts, words, and deeds , by way of obedience to the Fir ft and Second Table, in fincerity : for he

• muft after Covenanting with God by Faith, which makes him

' afubjeft, ftudy alfocleanneffe of hands, or innocency of life , and that out of a pure beart,deanfed by the blood of fprinkling fcr juftification j and by the clean water of begun fan&ificati-on y And therefore he muft not any more look upon the deceit-full baits of fin, with a longing defire to have them ; for that were to lift up bis foul unto vanity. Neither muft he mif-regard an oath, whether in or after the taking of it 5 for that were to fwear deceitfully , feeming to ftand in awe of God, when he dotb not fear him at all. 4- Every belcever who fetteth himfelfe to bring forth the fruits of bis faith, in obedience to Gods law 5 mall have a gracious reward, be fbal receive tbcble(fing from the Loib. 5. The holy life of the true beleever, isnoc thecaufeof his juftification before God, by reafon of the imperfe&ion

itheieof, andimpoffibility to fatisfie the Law thereby > But he fhall receive juftification, and eternall life , as a free gift from

! God, by venue of the Covenant of grace : therefore it is Paid here, That hefhall receive righteoufneffe frcm the God of : his fj.\vi. iion. 6 Whofoever they be within the vifible Church, who have the marks of true Covenanters, fuch as are here defcribed, yea, whofoever are feeking God , to make them fuch 5 whefoe-

tver are feeking reconciliation with God, and communion with him, whether they be $ev*s or Gentiles , bound or free, male or female 5 they are the generation, that (hall afcend and dwell in Gcds holy place * for this is the feneration of them that fee\ him. The generation that feek thy face (faith he to

,God). This is the true Jacob, the true heir of the pro-

jmifes.

Ver. 7. Lift up your hands , O ye gates, and be ye I lift up ye everlafting doors , and the King of glory fhal come in.

8. Who it this King of glory ? the Lord fir ong and mighty , the Lord mighty in battel.

9. Lift up your heads, O ye gates, even lift them up ye everlafting doors, and the King of glory fhall come in.

10, Who

10. Who U this King of glory ? the Lord ofhoftes, he is the King of glory* St lath.

In the third place having described thefe perfons who (hall furely dwell in heaven with God, he exhorceth all the members of the vifible Cburcb a to the intent they may receiftrigtw coufnefic and falvation from Gcd> ( who is in covenant wkh his Church,) heartily to welcome Chrift Jefus, the King of glory, and Lord of hofts, dwelling in the midft of them in the Tabernacle, (hadowing forth and fignifying bis coming in the fljfti, by his giving oracles from the Ark of the covenant, de» fending tbem,feeding them, and fighting their battels and at length in Davids time afcendingon Mount Sion, he and the Ark of the covenant triumphantly, to Let them fee in a ftiadow, bow after his great battels,fougbten for our redemption,hefliould afcendto heaven,and mak e way for his fubje&s to come up after bim>to dwell with him: He exhortethj I fay, patent doors to be made unto him, where ever be offcreth himfclfe to King-domes, Cities, Incorporations, vifible Churches, Families,and hearts of men in fpeciall. JVbeneelearn, i. The way to make men true Converts, true believers* true Saints, and inheritours of heaven, is to receive Chrift heartily and honourably, to caft up doors in hearty confent of faith and love, like triumphant Arches for,welcoming fo glorious a conquerour to be their gueft j Lift up your beads, 0 ye gates, &c. z. Whofoever (hall receive the offer, and open the heart tobim, he fliailclofe cove_ nant with him; Beye lift up ye ever I j fling doors, and the K in & of glory fbatt come in, g. He is an unknown King, till he be manifeftedtous; andiuchasare wife, when they hear of him, will feek to know him . Who k this %ing of glory ? will be their queftion. 4. Such as feek to know Chrift, H1 a 11 indeed have experimental! knowledge of him : That he is able to fave them to the uttermoft> to work all their work for them, to defend them from their adverfaries> and to give them compleat vi&orys He is the Lord flrong and mighty,the Lord mighty in battel, 5. We have need again and again to hear the offer of Cbrifts grace* and to be wakened up to obfervc Chrift, and his glory : need to be exhorted again and again to open our hearts wide to him* Lift up jour beads negates, the fecond time. 6. Chrift i$ indeed glorious and a glorious Kingj in all the paffages of redemption!

and

and falration of his people > albeit the ignorance and unbelief, and the croffe, and troubles following his Kingdome in this world, doobfcure his glory to the carnal! eye : And therefore no wonderj that men do ofcner move rhe queftion about his Kingdom and Glory, asking Who U the l&ng of glory } 7.Chrift Jefus (fthoCt afceation was prefigured by the afcending of the Ark upon Mount Sion, convoyed mthDavid, and ail Ifrael^ as he is true man 3 fo he isalfo very God Almighty, one with the Father, and Holy Spirit, in his God-head : for The Lord of bo fts he u the Hsjng of glory .

psal. xxv.

A P[alrn of David.

In thisPfalm the Prophet 6eing in danger of his life | by his enemies without,and troubled with the fenfe of fin within, maketh his prayer for reliefe from both, mixing meditation with prayer along the Pfalm, for ftrengchening of his faith : So firft he prayeth from ver.i.to v.$. then meditateth, < z/.8,9, 10. In the third room he prayeth again^r. 11. In the fourth is a new meditation, ^.12,13, 14,15. In the laftroom is a prayer from vtr. 16. to the end.

Ver; 1.1 1 Nto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my foule. LI 2. 0 my God, I truft in thee> y let me not be afbamed ; let not mine enemies triumph over me.

3. Tea, let none that Vvait on thee be afbamed : let them be afbamed which tranfgrejfe without caufe.

la

In the entry of his prayer, hedraweth his eye off ail reliefe fave God alone, and fixethhis truft upon him, and chen pray-eth: Whence turn i. Ic is neceffary for a Supplicant, if he would have help from God, to Uofe his confidence off all creature help, and fee his eye and heart on God, as David here lifietbup bis foule toGoi. 2. Faith in God, fixed on the covenant, giveth wings to the foul, as misbelief caufetb it to fink: 0 my Goi> faith he, 1 Lift my up my foul , I trujt in tbee. 3. It is not enough to aft faith in time of a ftrait, but it is profitable to obferve alfo the leaft meafurc of faith bellowed on us, and to entertain it, were it never fo little, and to avow it* that ic may be fixed when wc go to pray : for before David put up any petition, heprefixah, I lift my foule to tbee, 1 trujt in tbee: forotberwife the prayer of the Supplicant can find no footing, 4. The believing Supplicant ihall never be difappoin-ted of promited help ixigr (hail the hope and expectation of the enemies of ^?d befatisficd: He will not fuffer the believer to bt&fhmeiy nor the enemy long to triumph. ?. Th^ godly in their prayer are not felfiill, nor fuiters for Angularities, to be granted unto them, but are content, yea, and defirous, that all other believers may (hare in their mercies : Tea Jet none that •wait for tbee be ajhmed, faith he. 6. The godly (hall not want enemies, albeit they give no offence to the world: for carnall hope and expe&ation to obtain worldly gain by op-pofing of the godly, may, and ufually dotb, fet the wicked on work;'again(t chem, but they that look to have advantage that way, flull be ciofe difappointed y for the godly (hall efcape their fnare, and they (hall lo >fe their hoped advantage, and ihall gain tothemfelves nothing fave fliame, and a mifebief: For let them be afiamed that tranfgreffe without a caufe > is an 'induring petition, 2tnd a granted petition againft them.

Ver. 4. Shew me thy wayes y O Lord, teach me thy paths.

Jo Lead me in thy truth, and tench me: for thoti art the God of my falvation ; on thee do I wait all the day.

6, Remember, O Lord, thy 'tender mercies^ and

thy

P S A L. XXV 141

thy loving kjtdnejfes: for they have been ever of

0

U

Here he prayeth for grace to behave himfelfe holily under his exercife, and to have renewed experiences of mercies, fuch as he had felt formerly. Whence learn, 1. The underftanding of the way how the Lord ufeth to deal with bis children, fcr-veth greatly for patient bearing of affliction > and the beft way to efchew the [nare of adverfaries, is to carry our felves holily. Therefore prayeth David four times to be inftrudted, andtffe-dually taught, ana guided in thewayes and paths of Gods 5 truth, or faith/ull word. 1. Becaufe the Lord in covenanting with us, lakeththe work of our falvation in hand , not to lay it down till be hive perfected it j he alioweth his children, in : all particular difficulties, to hold this ground, and conftantly : ! to exped the accomplifhmenc thereof, wbatfoever ftrait they 1 fall into: and to waic for diredicn how to behave them* felves, till it be perfected : for 2)avid givztb this for a reafonof his prayer, Thou art the God. of my falvation $ on thee do 1 xeM all the day long, 3. Though the courfe of kindnciteand mercy fcem to be interrupted by affliction, and temporall defer-tion, and to be forgotten cm Gods part 5 yec faith muft make ufeof experiences, and read them over unto God out of the 1 regifter of a fan&ified memory,as a recorder to him,that cannoc ; forget ; Remember thy tender mercies 0 Lord } andthy lovivgkini-neffes. 4. Mercies and kindneffes fomtimes felr, may be, and I mould be followed up into the very fountain of erernall love, and election, from which jthey came* Co mall the channel be opened, and run clear with fremconfoiation fo much the foo* ncr 5 Remember thy mercies to me, for ^bty have been ever of old.

Ver. 7. Remember not the fins of my youth, nor my tranfgrejftons : according to thy mercy remember tbta me, for thy goodnejfefake, O Lord.

Hee laboureth to -.have his fins removed , as the chfefe impediment of the granting of his prayer : Whence learn, 1. New afflictions may cafily renew the fenfe

of old fins, even from the time of youttb, albeit forgivei of God, and forgotten by the believer, and the tempter can make ufe thereot againft faith in the day of trouble ; in which cafe the believer without lofle may read over blotted accompts, and renew petitions for pardon : Remember not faith Vavid, the fins of my youth* nor my tranfgreflions. a. As God holdeth two Courts in a mans confeience, concerning fin; one of juftice, according to the Law, or Covenant of works* another of mercy, according to the Gofpe!* and Covenant of grace offered in the Mediatour, which is pofteriour to the other Court > wherein the man who hath glbrified juftice, and acknowledged his fin, and deferved perdition, is pardoned 5 ffor the ranfomc paid by the Mef-fiab Chrift Jefus the Mediatour, to whom the (inner is fled for refuge :) So the believer hath two reckonings with God, about his (ins. One according to juftice, and another according to mercy 5 and albeit the believer will never re-fufe to read, acknowledge, and fubferibe again and again, the firft reckoning to be juft, yec he will not ftand to that reckoning for payments but will hold him to the iaft bargain of grace, and mercy, and goodneffe, which cleareth the claim of the firft accompt: for this is Davids pra&ife here, that the firft accompt maybe forgotten: Remember not the fins of my youth. And that the laft accompt and re-koning may ftand, and be held in memory, faying, According to thy mercy , remember thou me. $<. For evidencing the ftability of the accompt of mercy for pardoning of fin, the glory of Gods goodneffe is laid in pawn in the covenant $ and that holdeth all faft unto the believer: Therefore* faith he, Remember* for tb) goodnejfe fa^e, 0 Lord.

Ver. 8. Cjood and upright is the Lord: therefore will he teach fwners in the way.

9. The meek„ will he guid in judgement : and the tneek^ will he teach hi* way.

10. All the pathes of the Lord are mercy and truth^ unto fttch m keep his covenant , dnd his t-ftimonies:

In the fccond place after praying, he fallcth upon a medication of the grace and good will of Qod co a believer, and of bis mercifull dealing with him in every condition* Whence learn, 1. In the fecret exercife of the Saints, a paufc may be uiefully made in prayer, and a meditation, or foliloquie offer maybe fallen upon, when the Lord dotb fit matter for tottering faith, and furthering of prayer, as here we may in Davids pra&ice obferve. 2, The good-neffe and faithfulncffe of God in his promifes, and faisrea-dineffe without refpeft of pcrtons, to be gracious to ever/ one who cometh unto him, is the fountain of the believers Arcngth, hope, and confolation: Good and upright k the Lord, is here a Well of comfort to the Supplicant. $. The confeience of fin mult not keep the believer back from confidence to be beard in his prayer, when he cometh 1 to Ceek direction: for from this ground, That the Lord k good , the Prophet draweth this confequence , Therefore i will he teach ftnnm in the way. 4. Gods juftice will noc hinder his mercy to be bountiful], nor will former break-| ing of commands, prejudge the finner 5 who being weary of bis wandring, doth feektobe directed hereafter in the Lords way j He will teach finvers in the way. 5. When by affli-i dion a man is humbled, and brought to fubmit himfclf co j God, he (hall not want a guide to lead him out of his ; trouble, to direft bis pathes, till the delivery come j for (Joi I will guide the mee\ in judgement, moft wifely and difcrcec-ly, as bis good requiretb, and teach him in hkwiy. 6. The property of the believer, is to cleave to the covenant, andco what the Lord hath fet downe in his word 3 Tbej \tep hk covenant, and hk teftimonies 5 and will not part wich them j wbatfoever come. 7. Wbofoever do hold faft the covenant j of grace, and do make confeience of obeying Gods word, they may be fure that all their troubles, and variery of ex-; ercife is nothing but Gods way, to make them partake of j Gods promifes 5 for unto fuch all the pathes of the Lord arc 1 mercy and truth.

Ver. 11. For thy Names fak*> 0 Lord, pardon my iniquity : for it is great.

In the third place? hiring laboured toftrengthen his faitb, be fallethto prayer again, for remiffion of fin. Whence learn i. The conference of fin will ofcener affaulc our faith then once, and fo oft as it affaulcetb, ic is to be anfwered with-renewed prayer to God; OQod, faitb he, pardon my iniqui-, ty. 2. The honour of the Lord is ingaged by covenant for remiflion of fin to the penitent believer, and the Lord counts it a glory to be merciful! 5 Therefore, faith he, For thy Names fafe pardon. 3. Faitb can make advantage of mif-beliefs arguments to retort them againft it, and can plead for pardon from the very multitude and gticvoufneffe of fin 5 as here, Pardon mj iniquity , for it U great. For the greaterjin is acknowledged to be, the more is the objed of pardon made clear, for it cannot be payed for by the (inner, and the more is the Lords pitty letten forth, that the believer befenfible of the weight*

Ver, 12. What man is he that feareth the Lord} him/ball he teach in the way that he Jhall choofe*

15. His foul /hall dwell at eafe : and his feed {hall inherit the earth.

14. The fecret of'the Lord is Vtith them that fear him : and he Will flew them his covenant.

In the fourth place there is another meditation of Gods good-neffe to a believer, for ftrengtbening of his faith yet further, wherein he layeth down three gencrall promifes,^made to them that believe in God) and do ftand in aw to offend, ver. ii>*$y *4» and by way of Syllogifme he aflumetb of him-felfe, that be is a believer, whereupon he inferretb the eon-clufion, ver. 15. Whence learn 1. The fear of God (importing care toferve God according to his word, and to {tan J in awe to offend him) is the neceffary property of a true and lively believer $ Therefore it is made the believers cognisance, and mark to difcerne bimby: What man U he that feareth the Lord ? 2. The believer walking in the fear of Cod, may expeft from the Lord diredion and light, how

rj

to carry bimfelfe in all perplexities, fo oft as he in his need rtiall feek ic of God > for in dubious cafes, God Jhall teach him in the way that be Jhall cboofe. 5. Albeit the believer be put to trouble, and hard excjcile, yet (lull he have placa alwayes with God, as a man reconciled K> him 5 ami peace in his confcience alfo, as his good dotb require, and be (hall have contentment in hts lot 5 for^ his foide Jhall dwel \ at eafe. 4. Thefureft way to tranfmit inheritance* to a mans ] children/ and to make houfes to ftand, and however macters '; go, for a man to be fure of rhe Kingdom of Heaven, (fig-1 nified by an inheritance in the Land of Canaan) is, that the • parents feare God* and that the children do follow their \ footfteps, and fear God alfo* For the feed of the man fea* 1 ring God Jhall inherit the Land. 5. The man that feareth 1 God, (hall know more of Gods mind then others fhat'j he fhall know the good and acceptable will of God for his direction in dangerous contraverfies, and for his fatisfa&ion a-bout Gods difpenfarionSj both toward himfelfe, and others* C and for his confolation in all affliftions s For the fecret of the Lord it with tbemtbat fear him. 6. Albeit the Lords co-j venant with the vifible Church be open, and plain in it felf ! to all men, in all the Articles thereof, yet it is a myftery to I know the inward fweet fellowfhip which a foule may have j with God, by vertue of this covenant 5 And a man fearing Godj ftiall know this myftery, when fuch as are covenan-| ters onely in the letter, do remain ignorant thereof 5 For to the fearers of god onely is this promiie made , That to them the Lord mlljhew hU Covenant.

15. Mine eyes are ever toward the Lor A , and he \fljjtll fluck^rny feet ont of the net.

Having laid the ground of his reafon in the former verfes, which h in fumme this. To every beleever God will be gracious, as his need is: now he affumetb>I am a beleever 5 For mine eyes are ever toward the Lord. Therefore to me God will be gracious in my need, and (oplnck my feet out of the net 5 as my need now requireth. Whence learn, 1. The beleever can read his ownename, and his ownebletfedneffein the promifes made to beleevers, andean draw out the extrad of Qods decree of ab-

L folution*

folution,dire&ion, confolation, and falvation in his own flavours, for where the generall is written, there all the parties lars are alfo written in effect : And fo the beleever may read his name written in the book of life> as here David doth read his owne deliverance , in the Charter of Belecvers > Mine eyes are ever towards the Lord, therefore be willpluckmy feet out of the net. 2. The beleever is not a little helped to bcleevc , and to draw fweet conclufions from infpired Scripture, to ftrengthen himfclf by avowing bimfelfe to be a beleever^ or to have the true property of a beleever, as here David doth, faying, Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord 5 Firft,heavowetbhis Faith , and then draw-Cth this conclusion from it, be fhill pluck, my feet ont 0] *b e 7!€tu 3 . To depend on God^ for the fupply of alf neceflities, and for deliverance out of all ftraits, is the property of true Faith} for the Prophet to prove himfelfe a beleever, and to have an intereft in the mercies formerly fet downe, ver. 12,13,14. be faith, ver. i$. Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord* 4. Though the godly walke among fnares, and nets, fet by their enemies , bodily and fpiricuallto entrap them, yet God will either dired their way, toefchue thefe fnares and nets , or will pluck their feet out of them 5 For this is the Prophets comfort, Tboujhalt pluck my feet put of the net,

16. Tnrne thee unto me r and have mere] upon me: for I am defolate and ajflifted.

17. The troubles of mj heart are inlarged: O bring thou me out of my difireffes.

After meditation, he condudeth his exercife , with petitions for himfelfe, and for the Church, The Petitions for himfelfe are fix, info many verfes. In the firft,/^r«e, 1. Naturall fenfe and fuggeftion of Satan j faith, that God doth turne his back on us, when he doth not fcnfibly by outward workes mew himfelfe for us as we could wift; But Faith maketb advantage ofl the tentation, by adhering to God in time of a feeming defer-tion, and prayeth for his manifefting of bimfelfe unto us$ Turn ibee unto me^and have niercy upon me. 2. A felt , and acknowledged miferablejhelpleflej and defperate condition, is to the

beleever

beleever halfe a promifc, and a whole rcafon , to expeft rcliefe from God > Turne thee unzo me, and have mercy on me, for 1 am defolate and affliftcd y vcr. 16. and fo aifo in bis fecond Petition The troubles of my bean are enlarged, 0 bring me out of my diftref-fcs. As bis troubles were mulciplyed and enlarged, his heart was ftraitned, and hisdiftreflesmulriplycd, and this be bringetb tor a reafon of his hope to be brought out of thefc {traits.

18. Lookjtfon mine afflittion , and my paine, and forgive all mj fins.

From the Third Petition, Learne, 1. How fad snd fearfull troubles, a believing and beloved foul may be brought into,

, no words can fufficiently exprefle, he is defilate, Miked, tbc troubles- of his heart are enlarged^ is in moe diftreflks then one $ he is in affliction andpaine 3 which no eye can fee, por any beholder judge of, fave God only > therefore faith he to God, Lool^

1 en my affliction, and my painc. 2.Sore trouble will waken up the confeience of fin afrefli, and call to minde forgiven and buried fins j which new challenge cannot be anfwered, but by prayce

: for a new application, and intimation of remiflion of fins 5 As

' here, forgive all my fins.

i

19. Confider mine enemies ; for they are many % and they hate mee with cruel hatred.

20. O keep my foul, and deliver me : let me not he afhamed^ for I put my truil in thee.

Prom the Fourth and Fifth petition,reIat!ng to the bayard of his life,from his bodily cnemie, Learn, i. The multitude, pow-,j er 3 rage and cruelty of the enemies of the Lords people, is a ground of hope to the belcever, to be delivered from them. Con-fiier my enemies for they are many y tyc. 2. There is no furcr evidence of deliverance;, then faith in God, fetled on a promife, Let me not be a(bamed, for I put my truft in thee.

'

2 1. Let integrity and uprightnejfe preferve me: for I tv ait on thee.

h * The

Tbe fi*t Petition is, for thefruv of his innocent behaviour toward bis enemies. Whence ledrn,i. Albeit a man be burdened with tbe fenfe of^many Cms againft God , yet he may have the confeience of innocency toward his enemies > And here a good confidence giveth great boldneffe before God, to hope for delivery* Let integrity and uprigbtnetfe preferve me. z. Integrity of life, or a good behaviour after prayer,'is as needfuil as before it, yet neither integrity before, nor after muft be leaned upon, but Gods goodneffe and mercy only 5 Let uprigbtneffe preferve me,fo Vivid teafonetb,/ir I writ on tbee.

22* Redeem lfrael 9 O God y out of all his trou* hies.

Heclofethhis excrcife with a prayer for the Church. Whence le<trne y 1. Ic is the common lot of all the, Saints to be exercifed with plurality of troubles; and as tbe troubles of each particular member ftiould nocfwallow^up the fenfe of the troubles of the Church, but ratber private trouble mould make every one fenfible or/the like or greater troubles of the reft o£ the body > So mould tbe delivery ofl the whole Church be fought after, as our own, yea and more then our owns and as ourlaft petition, and however the matter ftiall goe with our felves, let us pray, 7(edeem Ifuel O Lord, out of all bis troubles.

PSAL.

PSAL xxvr;

t)avU being opptefTed by the Judges of the Land^ bis powerful adversaries, and being exiled from the houfeofGod; heappealeth to God, thefupreme Judge in the teftimony of a good confidence, bearing him wirncfle, firft of his endeavour to walk uprightly as became a beleever, yer. j y 2, 3. And fe-condly, of his keeping himfelf from the contagion of tbeevillcouncel, finful courfes, arid example of the wicked, ver. 4, *. Thirdly, Of his pnrpofe ftiil to behave himfelf holily and righteouily > out of love to be partaker of the publkk priviledgesof the Lords people in the congregation, ver. ty,% 8. Whereupon he prayeth to be free of the judgement coming on the wicked>#<?>\ 5). j o According as he was pur-pofed to efchew their finnes,^r, 11.Arid he clofetft his prayer with comfort and affurance to be heard, vtr. 12.

Vef.l. T Vdge fae y 0 Lord, for I have talked in ntirie J integrity: 1 have truftcd dfo in the Lord'. therefore I fhallnoijlide.

2* Examine me , 0 Lcrd y and prove hie • try mf teinesdnd my heart.

3. For thy loving kjndnefte is before mme eyesi and J have walked in thy truth.

FRom Davids appellation, from the injufi fent£nce of rneri againft him in their courts and el fe where, calumniating him and burying him under ftanders > from which God and his owrf co.ifcicnee knew he was fic$iLcarv> x. G:ds children maybe

H for

or a time unjuftly in their caufe and name , Co born down with calumnies by Judges and others, that they muft content them- . felves with the approbation of God, and ol their own conscience, as T>avid doth here. 2. When no remedy is fecn on earth for GoJs opprefled children > remedy may be had from God, the fu-preoie Judge, who can redrefle all matters abundantly. This did *Dxvid, when he faid, -fudge mc>0 Lord, that is: do the part of a juft Judge to me, in this controverfie between my adver fades and me. 3. He who appealcth to God had need of a good caufe, and a good confcience, for his carriage in it, that he may fay with V&~ vid, I have wdl&diii my integrity. 4. A good carriage in any controverfie is then only comfortable and commendable, when it is the fruit of faith in God, therefore 'David addeth, I have truft-* cd alfo in the Lord. 5«He that in obedience to God doth carry himfelf righteoufly, may be aflured he fhall ftand and prcvaile * for this conclufion doth the Prophet draw from thefe grounds, hying,IJballnotJlidc. 6. Not only muft a mans hand be freer from injuring his party, but his affe&tens alfo: In which cafe, the upright man is content-the-Lord ihould try him,and tell him what is wrong, that it may be amended hereafter 5 for here fince-rity faith, Examine and try my reins. 7. Sincerity of behaviour may abide the triall of the confcience, and expcd the approbation of God, when the word of God is the mans rule, and fear of interrupting of the fenfe of fweet communion with God, is the aw-&and to keep him to his rule, for fo doth David prove his fincerky het-e for th) loving kindneffeis before mine eyes, and I have wal^ cd in thy truth, to wit, looking to thy precepts, threatnings, and promifes.'

Verf. 4. I have not fate With vaine ferfons,neither will 1 go in with diffemblers.

5. I have hated the congregation ofevill doers : and tW5 not fit with the wicked.

The fecond part of the teftimony of his confcience, that he had rajefted the courfe of wicked men, and their ill counfel, and that he would neither follow the way againft his enemies, which they followed againft him, nor hearken to the evill advice,which wicked men, under whatfoever pretence of goodwill to him, did offer to him, for a finful tranfattion, or private revenge JVbtnce learn, Though innocency may feem to make the godly aprey to their enemy, yet it will promote their caufe more before God, and give Skater contentment to the confcience, then witty wicked plot-

liag

ung againft witty and wicked enemies; for this doth Davids ex" ample teach us. 2, A godly man may take the fcrvice of man/ in a cafe of Law-bufinefles, and civil! matteiswhofe counfell he mull refufe in a moral dutie • as'when Davids followers counfel-led him to flay the King, when he had him in his power in the Cave 5 In fuch a conization or debate, he will not fit nov go iii tvitb the wicked. 2. He that giveth ill counfell, whatfoever pre-tence of friendfliip, or advantage be made to commend the coun-felh wich he offereth; yet in that point,he is a vain man and a dif-kmbler. So doth the Prophet ftyle him here. 4. It is necef-fary to hate and abhor every wicked courfe,left if we donor hatq it, but can hearken unto it, we be drawn over to embrace it: X bate (faith hej the congregation cftbeevill doers.

Verf. 6. l^illwafb my hands ininnocencj : fb \Tritt

Icompajfe thine Altar, O Lord.

7. 1'hat I may piblifh With tiie voice of thdnkfgivitogi tindteUofaitthy tvondrom work**.

8. Lord, i\ave loved the habitation of thy houfe; Anh the place \Wm thine honour dwelletb*

The third part of theteftimoriy of his conference, is concerning his refolution, to behave himfeif righteoufly and godlliy cur of love to honour God, and to be the fitter for worshipping of God,andfervinghim,as hefhouldbe employed, whence learn, 1. The man whofe hands are not clean from injuries done to men, his conference fliould tell him, that he is not meet to offer wormiptoGqd : and where guiltinetfe is, it fhould be taken a-way, left the worfhipbe refufed : So refolveth Vdvii> I will wafb my hands in innocency, and fo compare thine Altar. 2 < Whatfoever was the ceremony of the godly with their friends, in comparing the Altar with longs of praife, when they offered their peace-offerings, it yeeldeth a fit direction for every wormipper, and offerer ofprayer'jor praifeto God,- to do it wi h an eye to Jefus Chrift, the true Altar that fanctificth our offerings, and maketh 1 our perfons and fervices acceptable for the comparing of the AN tar, wLhaneyeonit/ignified this duty. J. The Lords rnercies* to his own are marvellous in effect, when all circumftances are Well confidered) Therefore are they here called rvondrovA rvor\s: 4. To love the fellowship of the Saints in the publick worfhip of. Godjisatoken of oiirintereft in Godj and the confeience of this tove is refremfulU as here. Lord, I have loved the habitation.

N x of

ofthyboufc. 5. The meetings of the Kirk fliould be to prcr-claimethe Lords glory in thccxcrcifeof all his ordinances) and where this is endeavoured, there will God dwell, for fuch holy af-feiriblies, are the place where his bmour dwelletb,albeit many of the members of the Kirk be fuch before God, as they were in Sauls time^ whercunto this Pfalm relateth.

Verf. 9. Gather not my foul with finners y nor mj life with bloody men :

1 o. In Vpfofc hands is mlfcbief: and their right band is full of bribes.

II. But as for me, 1 mU^alk^in mine integrity ; redeem me^ and be mercifnl unto me.

Now he prayeth to be exeemed from the company of the wicked in their punifhment, feeing he hath gotten grace to refolve,not to walk in theeirfin .Whence Icarn^u The Lord hath aharveit 8c a gleaning, time alfo, fet for cutting down, and binding together in the fellowship of judgements, Gods enemies, who have folow-ed the fame courfe of finning : for here we are given to understand, that God will gather their fouls , and fo will let none e-icape. 2* Such as teparate themfelvs (not from the lawful focie-ty ) but from the finful wayes of the world ; mall alfo be feperate from the fociety of their punifhment 5 The foul of the one and the other fhall not be gathered together. Gather not my foul with finners. 3. Ungodly men will never {land to confent to the taking of the life of the godly, if by a fit tentation they be put to it, a bribe, or fear, which is all one, will do the turn s for finners here are declared bloody men, in vobofe hands a mifchicfis^ and their ri/bt hand Ufull of bribes. 4, It is the mark of a wife and godly foul, not to be divetted from his God or godlineffe, by the ten-tationof lofle or gainc, which overturneththe worldly manj for David refolveth, go others where they will, as for me I will walfi in my integrity. 5. Amanfo refolvedj that is, who hathcho-fen God for his Redeemer, and Gods wayes for his rule, may be furt to be borne thorow all difficulties, all troubles and temptations, and to meet with mercy in the courfe and clofe of his. life> for David after refolution of faith in God, and refolution honeft-ly to endeavour obedience to God in his courfe, he prayeth (which is as good as a promife to us) 7{$cdtcmtne } and be merciful $9 m.

Verf. 12. My foot ft andeth in an even place : in the

Congregations rtill I b/ejfe the Lor A.

Heciofesthe Pfalm comfortably; Whence learn, I. The believer j> refolving obedience to God^and wreftiing in prayer with God 3 mall not want a comfortable anfwer i his conicience (hall fpeak good to him., and God fhali ratifie the teftimony of it, with his teftimony; and thus (hall the man be cftabliftied in that fweet courfe of faith and obedience, and have caufe to ivf^My foot ftaudetb in an evenpl.ee. i. Such a man may be allured to blefle God effectually, for the performance of promifes, and that in good company either in this life, or in the next;, or in both$ and in this life with aiTurance ; he may fay with Vivid, In the Congregation will I blcffe the Lord,

PSAL. XXVII.

In this Pfalm David fetteth down what ufe he had of his faith in God, in the time of his trouble, and firflhowheftrengthened his faith, verf. 1,2, 3,4 5» 6. and next how he prayed, upon the forefaid grounds, verf. 7,8,9,10,11,12. And thirdly,what advantage he had by beleeving in God, in the time ofhisexercife, verf, 13. Whereupon he exhorts ali the godly to follow his example, under hope to be helped,as he was helped, Verf \ 4.

Verf I. r TPH<? Lord is my fight, and myfafoatio**, JL rvhomJhaU I fear?the Lord is tkefirength of mj life y of whom/ball I be afraid f

THe grounds of ftrengthening of his faith are three.The firft is, That God by vertueofthe Covenant^hath obliged him* -felfto givedire&ion, and comfort in troublc 3 and deliverance out pt it ; from which he inferreth, that he needcth not feat his enemies. Whence learn, 1. When we are to wraftle in prayer, a* gainft the doubts, which trouble and tentation may raife 'in our Keatts, to man* our confidence in prayer. It is wifdomctoaime

N j oar

jU PS AX. XXVII.

our felves by faith againfl thefe doubts, before .we pray, for fo: doth the Prophets example teach us. 2. He who is in Covenant with God, hath (olid ground to expect from God, direction and comfort in every trouble, and deliverance out of it j for by vcrtue of the Covenant of grace T>xvid faith, The Lord it my light and rny falvrtion. j.Whenwc have fattened our faith cnGod, we may then with reafon deiie our enemies., and fay with the Prophet, of whom fall I be afrM? 4. When our enemies do appear ftrong, and we know our felves to be but weak, we mould eppofe the Lo ds ftrength to our tentation^that we may refill all fear; for fo teacheth Vavidffhe Lord u the ftrength of my life, of whom fall % be afraid?

Verf. 2. when the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes came upon me to eate up my flefi, thejftttm* if led and fell.

The next ground of confidence is, that he hath proof and experience of the fruit of the Covenant , when he was in great-eft danger to be overtaken by his enemies, Whence learn, 1. When the rage of the wicked again ft the godly doth break forth, then no iefle then the precious life of the godly can fatisfie their beaft-ly cruelty $ they hunger even to eate their flefb. i. God can ea-fily make the wicked in their hotteft purfuit of the godly, to come fliort of their purpofe, as here, to (tumble and faUi 3. Experience of Gods power is very forcible to confirme our faith,and to erect our hope, as it did 'Davids faith.

Verf. 3. Though an hoftefhould encamp againft me 9 my heart {hall not fear : though xvarre fbould rife again ft pie, in this will I be confident.

After fetling of his faith, he puts on a refolution to ftand to his point, in refilling ailauits of fears, from whatfeever tentation. Whence learn, 1. It is a means to ftrengthen faith, to refolve by the grace of God to put faith in act, in whatfoever difficulty, and in a manner to lay hands on our felves^ to hold up this fhield a-gainft whatfoever fiery darts, albeit poflibly when itcomethtq pufh of pike, we b lot found fo Arena as we are flout,as here David doth. J ie Lord being ours by Covenant, and the Lord proved to be ours in experience is warrant and reaim fufficient for us to put on Rich a refolution, Though warrc be raifed, in this (that is upon the forefaid ground ) will 1 be confident 3 faith he,

Verf,4o

Verf/ 4 One thing have I dejirtd of the Lord, that Vrill Ifeek after : that 1 may dwell in the houfe of the Zord, all the dayes of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lordy and to enquire in hi* Temple.

A third ground of confidence, is the confcience of his purpofe to ftudie to have conftant communion with God, in the ufe of the meanes, and the confcience of his very earneft defire to have the benefit of all the publick ordinances, in the fellowfhip of the Kirk. IVbence learn, i. Hearty refolution to fubject ourfelves to all Gods ordinanc€S,and to follow the appointed means of communion-keeping with God, is a found mark of folid faith,and the confcience of this refolution, ferveth much to confirmc our confidence in God, If we can fay with the Prophet, Thh one thing have I defired, &C. 1, In the ufing of the means and ordinances of Gods houfe, the glory of the Lord may be feen, counfeI> and direction in all things may be had with comfort andfpiritu-all delight to our fouls £ for in the ordinances David was to behold the obedience of the Lord, with delight, and to enquire in kit holy Temple. $. The defire of communion with God, and love to his ordinances, where it is fincere, fhould have the chief place in the heart, above all earthly defires and delights whatfoever. One thing have I define L 4. A fincere defire mult not be fuftered to go.away,but mould be purfued refolutely, and recommended to 'God daily. This Iwillftill feefi after } faith he: and the mean? of communion with God in the publick fellowship of the &irk> muft be conftantly continued in, even all the dayes of our life.

Verf. 5. For in the time of trouble he JhaU hide me* inhis pavilion : in the fecret of his tabernacle fhall he hide mej he fhatl fet meup upon a rock,*

He giveth a reafon of hi$ fo earneft a deiire to have fellowfhip with God, entertained by the ufe of all Gods ordinances, becaufe in this way he was fure that faith fhould draw all neceflary comfort and protection from Qod, as need fhould require. Whence team, 1. Faith keeping communion with God, find cth him all— fufficient in all ncceflities, to fupply every inlack of the creature, whereof the belcevev ftandeth in ntcd;HeTvill be a pavilion in xcar^ fare 3 and a bidingplace^nd a rock of refuge^hzi is^ G xl will make a man as quiet by faith, in himfelf, as if thire were no hazard j In the time oftrouble he fhall hide me in bU pavilion;)! ,i the far ep of bfsTabcrnaGlC) jhull&ibidem^he (hall jet meup uponaroi^

?fc

PSAL. XXVII.

|. The godly cannot promife to themselves the influence of Gods grace in time of need, oiherwayes then by following divine ordinances, both private ami publick, fo far as they may be had; for the Prophet promifeth to himfelf this protection, as a fruit of his faith, foftered by theufeof the ordinances. I defire faith he, to dwell in thyboufc, and to enquire in thy holy Templet for in the time of trouble bejbril bide me> ($c,

Vcrfe 6. And'now Jhall mine head be lifted up a-faove mine enermes round about me \ therefore W/// / pffer in hi* Tabernacle facrifices ofjoy\Iwi/lJing ) yea 9 J Vvillfing praifes unto the Lord*

After thiswrafllingoffaith he obtaineth victory, and aflu-jrance of fatisfa&'ion to his defire, and the grant of all that he was

!o feek in his Prayer. Whence learn, The Lord can give a be* eever affurance of wha. he would have, and make him fo clear of the polfcffion of the Promife, as if it were in his hand, as here he is fure to prevaile over his enemies, fure to come to the Temple even as he wifhed, And now fhal! mine head be lifted up above mine enemies, I will offer Sacrifices of joy in bis Tabcr* pole.

Verfe % Hear, 0 Lord, when I cry With my voics . have mercy al(o upon me, and arfwer me ♦

8. When thou iaideft, Seek ye my face ; my bean faid[unto^ thee,Thy face, Lord, W;7/ I feek*

In the fecond place, having thus f]rcngthcned his faith,he en-tcreth the lifts with his prefent trouble and tentations, and en-countreththem by Prayer to God upon the forefaid igrounds, in three Petitions. In the firfthe prayethrbr the fenhble experience of Gods faVour, as his prefent condition required, wherein fie ftiengthens his faith by three confidetations. The fiift is, becaufe he had gotten grace to clofe w ith the Word of God, in* yiting him to feek vyhat he fought, per. 8. Whence learn , i .Confidence in GoJ, is diligent in Prayer, and defpifeth not the meanes, whereby th; j mercy hoped for may be brought about > But by Praye. it m keth particular application of the LorJsgcod" will offered to all,unto it feli) that it may be helped in the prefent peed, as here David doth, Hear me when f cry, have, mercy on me, tnfwcr we. a. As the Lords Word encourageth us, to feek things of GpJj Yyhich without a warrant wcduril not feek 5 fo

wheri

when we have gotten grace to embrace Gods warrant given to us by Precept or ^romife, we may ask with confidence to obtain* Hear me, an fiver me, why ? When thou faidefl, Seek ) € my face* pty heart anfwrcd, I » ill jeek thy face, 0 Lord*

Vcrfe 9. Hide not thy face far from me, put not thyfervant away in anger: thou hafi been mj help leave me not, neither forfake me, 0 Cod of my fal-vation.

He meets here with an objection from his fins and mif-defer/ vings, and prayeth it down, adding another confederation td confirm his faith from by-gone experience of mercy, not-withftanding of his unworthinefle Whence learn* 1. Though (when we would draw near to the Lord) fenfe of fin and unworthinefle, and fear of wrath do flee inoui throaty yet faith cleaving to Gods goodnefle, and to the promifes of mercy, and to our relation unto our God, may cry down the tentation, Hide not thy face, put not away thy fenant in anger. 2. The former experiences rvhich we have had of Gods being gracious to us, according to the tenor of the Covenant of falvation, fhould con-firme our faith, that God will never caft us off, nor any man that cannot endure to be feparate from him: T hus David ici-(ons. Thou haft been my help, leave me not, neither forfah v c me, O God of my falvation*

Verfe 1 o. When my father and mj mother for-fake me, then the Lord trilltakemeup.

A third confideration to confirm TDavids faith, is a nearer re* luion between God and 'David, then between David and his Parents. Wbenee learn^Thz bands between God and a bdeevin'g foul, are more ftrait and intimate, and more ftrong, then any fcand civil or natural between him and any creature 5 and they are appointed to hold faft when natural bands do faile, as here is aflerted. When my father and ny mother forfake me, then the Lord will ta\e me up. This is for the firft petition.

Verfe 11 * Teach me thy way, 0 Lord, and lead me in aplaine path,bee aufe of mine enemies*

The feeond petition is for Direction in a holy and wife car? yiage, that his enemies get no advantage againft his behaviour or perfon. 'When tlexrn, 1, There is danger of defertion, or pf Gods leaving us p& the will of our enemies, if we carry not a good caufc, in a lawful, holy, tender way, and therefore we h%d

need

need to. feck our dire&ion from God, to bctmgbt in bis way, andUdina plainepatb. 2. Becaufc the enemies of the godly are ready to calumniate their caufe, and their intentions, and to take advantage to calumniate them upon the leaft occalion of a queilionable practice, we had the more need to be circumfpect, and to pray to be directed, in a plaine patb 3 becaufe of our enemies.

Verfc I 2* ^Deliver we not over unto the trill of mine enemies: forfalfe mtnejfes are rife/; up againft rne^ andfuch as breathe out cruelty.

The third petition is, to be delivered from the power of the; cnemic, profecuting their falfe calumnies, and raging in cruelty. Whence learn, I. The godly have reafon to pray with fub-miflion, that they may not fall in the hands of men, becaufe of their cruelty, and to fay to God, Deliver me not over unto the yv11 of mine enemy. i.Becaufe it is eafie for the Lord to mitigate the enemies fury, or to break their power,or to elude their craft and power; Let us pray 73 Oliver, and let God chufe the way of delivery. $• When the good caufe of the godly, and the pcrfons alfo are left to fuffcr both together, there is ground that God in that cafe will intcrpofe himlelf in due time : for this is 'Davids reafon of hope to be helped, becaufe falfe witnefles reiblved to ppprelfe him in name, and breathers out of cruelty, fet to have his life, fiver rifvig agatnfi him, and here he is a clear type and example of the fufferingot Chrift, and his followers.

Verfe 13. I had fainted, unleffe I hadbeleeved t* fee the goodnejje of the Lord in the land of the l$~

ving*

14. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage , and he fhall firengthen thine heart : wait 9 I fay } on the

Lord.

In rhe third place he cometh 10 fhew, and to make ufe of the benefit he had by beleeving, that he may encourage others to follow his example in their tryals« Whence learn, i.Difcourage-ment under trouble, is a fort of quitting of our caufe, and of all comfort in it, but faith keepcth a man dole to his caufe, and from being overcome with troubles; it holds up his heart in his duty, "till the Lord fend an out-gate, wherein he were not able tc'fubfift oJierwifc : Unlejfe I hadbeleeved I bad faimci. 2. Our experiences of the good of beleeving in the time of

ftraitSj

ftraites, ihould be communicated to others,as our calling may fuffer to encourage them; for fo doth the Prophet, faying, Wait on the Lord, and be of good courage. $. The ftrivingto take cou-ta°e from the ground of faith, iball be followed with ft length from God to go under the trouble, and to findc comtort now and then, and full delivery at hi\, He (hdl comfort tbybcm. 4. Albeit the Lord let the trouble lie on, and ftrong tentations to iri-creafe, and griefe of heart to grow, yet muft we ftill wait for the duetime, the out-gate (hall come, writ I fay on the Lord.

PSAL. XXVIII.

In the firft part of this Pfalme, we have the Pro* phets conflift againft his enemies, fueh as in the former Pfalm is to be feen, wherein he pray-eth for audience, ver.i , 2. and delivery to him-felf, ver. 3. and that God would vindicate his own juftice againft his difdainful enemies, ver. 4,5.In the latter part, the Prophet having gotten comfort in his Prayer, doth glorifie God, ver. 6. and ftrengthens his own and the reft of the godlies faith, ver. 7,8. and prayeth forablef-fing to the Kirk, ver. $.

Verf. XTNtothee will I cry, O Lord my rock^ he

1. V not filent to me; left if thou be ftlent to me, 1 become like them that go clown into the pit.

2. He are the voice of my [applications when I cry unto thee: when I lift up mine hands toward thy holy Q-racle.

IN his conflict with trouble, he runneth to God for a comfortable anfwer, with reafons to help his hope to be heard. iVbence Icarv, i.It is good to pray in time of trouble, and to be inftant, and refolved to be inftant 5 For unto thee xeill X try^ioih import thefe three. 2. A fcul in great (traitsis not

able

tto PSAL, xxvra.

Able tcfufpend, and want comfort long : it muft lwc fotn comfortableanfwer, becaufe of what God is unto it by Cove e nant, My mkjbe notfiknt unto me. $; It bringeth deadnefle of~ fpirit on a fapplicant; when his Prayer is not taken off his hand, which albeit it be by no reafon,but aconfequcnceill inferred from the Lords not anfwering of us, yet we are fub-jccYtothis evil, and ihould pray to have it prevented : Re not plenty faith he, left 1 become It\e-them thatgo d wn intothe pit. 4. Though the heart be in bonds in time of Prayer, under trouble, yet the Lord wiil not deipife, t he voice, nor the faces bowedy nor the bands lifted up, nor the leaftexpreffionsof a fup-plicants define, to be helped by him: Hear my voice when I cry, and the lifting up of my hands, faith he. '■$-. Seeking of God in ChrinV and tryftingths fulnefleof the Godhead in the Perfon oftheMediatour, reprefented by the Tabernacle"and Oracle, 3nfwereth all objections, from the fupplicants unworthinefle, and giveth encouragement to expect a good anfwer from God, for to this purpofe doth he mention his lifting up of his hands towards the Lords holy Oracle*

Verf. 3. Draw me not away with the kicked, and with the workers of iniquity : ^hich /peak, peace to their neighbours, but mifchief is in their hearts.

Now he prayeth God would deliver him, and not deal with him as with an enemy. Whence learne. Albeit there be fin in the jjodly* yet are they not workers of iniquity, nortreache-roufly difpofed towards their neighbours, when they pretend to have friendfliip with them, and therefore may the godly expect from God, not to be dealt with, asobilinately wicked and impenitent finnerss for this he meaneth, laying, VrarpmcnGtaway with the workers of iniquity,&c

Verfe 4. Give th?m according to their deeds, and According to the Vvickedneffe of their endeavours : give them after the worl^of their hands, render tq them their deferts.

5. Becaufe they regard not the worses of the Lord, nor the operation of his hands , he fhMl defiroj them, and not build them UP.

He prayeth now againft his enemies, not out of private revenge $ but being led with the infallible Spirit of Prophecy,lock- ! ipt* through thcis men to the enemies of Chrift, aM of his

People ,

People in all ages* Whence learn y i. Albeit imprecations muil iiot be ufed againfi our own enemies, nor for any injury done to us, noragainft any in hatred of their perfons, nor againfi e-very enemy of God, but only againft defperate finners, and that in general, rather then with an eye to this man or that man m Jfpeciais about whom we may be miftaken; yet the. imprecation of the Spirit of God {landing in the Scripture, cryeth ftill a-* gainft obftinate finners, although we cannot condefcend particularly upon their names; God (hall give them acccordingt? their deferts. In the ccntroverfie between the godly and their enemies, notonly doth God fliewby his word, which parry hfc alloweth, butalfobythe works of his providence, in favours of the godly, and againft their enemies, he doth give forth his minde, according to what he hath faid in his Word to be ob^ laved, but when boththefe are mifregarded, he will deftroy tke wit ked, and net fuffer them to carry on their purpofe 3 for betaufe they regard not the worses of the Lord, nor the operation of hit hands, be fhall deftroy them, and not build them up.

Verfe<5> *B/etfed be the Lord, becaufe he hath heard the voice of my [applications.

7. The Lord is my fttength and my jhield, my heart truftedin him, and I am helped : therefore my heart great Ij rejeyceth^ andwith my fong wll I praife him.

8. The Lord Is their ftrength % and he is thefaving Strength of his annotnted.

The other part of the Pfalme, wherein he maketh ufe of the good anfwer given to him ; firft honouring God for its then itrengthening his own faith by it j and thirdly ftrengthenirtj the faith of others alio. Whence learn, 1 The beleevrng topple cant fhall not feek God in vain > he fhall not fail in due time to finde fuch fruir,as /{hall make him bleffe and praife God' for the anfwer; for in the entry of the Pfalme it was, Bt not fdent tt mc,0 Lord, left I become lil{Cthem that go down to the pit; and hcvcBlcjfed be the Lord J ccaufc he bath heard the voice of my fup~ plication .z.What faith to faithGod in wraftling>it mall be made tofubferibe it victorioufly and experimentally rhcrafter,Aty roc\, faid he, hear me, ver . 1. And here, The Lord is my ftrcngth and. my Jhield ; to furnifh me within and without. 3. It is a good uic made of experience to confirme our faith thereby, and to

com--

commend the couvfe of beleeving in God, as here David cfcth, My hearttrufiedin him, and I am helped. 4. The joy of faith and ot fenfe alio, will be given fometime together to the godly, for the increasing of their joy, as here he fheweth, Therefore my heart greatly rejoyced. ?. Albeit we muft praife God in what-foever condition we can be into > yet fpiritually rejoycing doth ipecially call for finging a Pfalm unto God, Therefor* mthmy fong will I praife bim } faith he. 6. What;the Lord is to one of the godly calling on him in the fenfe of need, he is unto them all the lame: as he was Davids jlrengtb, ver. 7. fo is he their firength, to wit, all his peoples itrength.iw. 8. 7.Allthe blef-fings which beleevers get do belong unto Chrift, firit as to the annotated of the Lord in chief, and to his fervants as partakers of his annotating; for the Lord is the faviug fttengtb, or the ftrengttoffalvation to bis anointed, or to his Chrift, and thofe that are true Chriftians, partakers of his Unftion, or holy Spirit; What concerneth David is but a fhadow, and as one who is a partaker of the holy Unction through Chi ift.

Verfecp. Save thy Teople, andbleffe thine \nbe~ ritance-, feed them alfo, and lift them t$p for ever.

He clofeth his Prayer with interceflion for the Kirk. Whence learn, 1. Sach as finde acceffe in Prayer to God for themfelves, fhould fpeak alfo a word forhisKiik, and'pray, Lord, fave thy Pecplc. 2.The Priviledges which the godly have, are common to them alL The godly are all Gods pco. le 3 his inheritance, his flock.' and as the benefits imported under theie titles are common, fo are the duties due from us to God, imported thereby common alfo, and to befoftudied, that we may dif-chargethem, as we would finde from God the benefits of protection and deliverance, as fubjetfs whom ta will fave; of being watered and warmed, as his inheritance, fed and led on, as his flock, and exalted over all our enemies, or, being lifted up forever.

■' • '

PSAL. XXIX.

David exhorteth Princes and great men, to humble themfelves before God, and to worfhip him (as he hath commanded) in his pobJicfc ordinance^

»ances, verfe i, 2. Firft, becaufe he is infinitely higher then they, and more terrible to all men, then they can be to their fubje&s or inferiours, as theutteriug of hi* majcftyand power by thunder doth make evident, vet. 3, 4,5, 6,7,8,9. Secondly, becaufe he oflfereththe meanesof fa-ving knowledge, even all his ordinances, thereby men may heartily glorifie him in their af&m-blies, ver. 9. Thirdly, becaufe he isaneverlaft-ingKing, and Ruler of all the creatures, ver.io. And fourthly, becaufe fuch as do humbly fubmic themfelves to him, and worfhip him as his People fhould do, fhall be furniflied with abilities for every good work, and (hall be abundantly bleffed.

Verfe i./^Ive unto the Lord, (Oje mighty,ygive \jmto the Lord glory and Strength. 2. Give unto the Lord the glory dneuntohti Name^ worjbip the Lord in the beauty ofho/inejfe.

HE dire&eth hisfpeeeh and exhortation co the Potentates of the earth, that they may humble themfelves before God, and give him the glory of all power, and authority, and excellency above themfelves, and above all other creatures. Hence leirv, 1. Of all men Princes ihould be moft careful to glorifie God, and yet it is moft rare to fee them humfciethem-' (elves before him : for natural corruption is as ftrong in them as mothers: Their education doth breed them to high and ftately thoughts of themfelves, their riches and power pufteth them up, and flatterers ordinarily following them? doth make them forget themfelves and God alfo. Therefore are they here thrice exhorted to give glory to God. i.It ismoftnecef-fary that Potentates do humble themfelves before God, and be particularly dealt with to that parpofe, becaufe their example and authority doth move many outwardly to fubmit to God * or ftand out from his fervice, therefore he fpeakcth to them in their grandour, Give glory to God, 0 yo mighty, j, As men arc

great

great ift the world, fothey are ready to think much ofjfieif own ftrength, of what their power is able to reach to, and what honour is due to them? but if they reckon rights ftrength> and glory belongetbtoGod. And according as he is above them in power and excellency, fo fhould he proportionably be magnified. Give wuo the Lord glory and ftrength, and give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name. 4. He will have no glory of men, but as he hath prcfcribed to men in his own ordinances, given forth iri his Word to his Khk, JVorfhip him in the beau-tyof bolincffe y that is, iri the glorious fancluary, the place of jmblick meeting > beautiful indeed, not for timber or ftones fomucb,asbecaufe the holy and beautiful means oforaeetb men, and Gods worftiip Shewing forth his glory was there to be found.

Verfe %/fhe voice of the Lord is upon the waters : The God of glory thundcrtth % the Lord is upon many Waters,

4> The voice of the Lordis powerful, the voice of the Lord is full of Afajefty*

He proveth that ftrength and glory belongeth to the Lord, by one only woik of thundering, and kindling fire in the mrdffi cf waiery clouds, that he may make thunder in the conflict of water clofing In the fire, and fire breaking through the cloud?, how oft foever he pleafeth to fhew his power to the children of men. Whence larn> i.Though the ftanding works of Creation ipeak meft of God, yet fuch is our foolifhnefle, that we are leaft atpprchtntivc of that which is daily fecn, and a leffe work more rarely occarrirm will move morcj as for example, the thunder or the Eclipfecf the Sun or Moon, will move more then the making of heaven and earth. 2. No work of the Lord is right* ly taken up till hehimfelf be looked unto, as the immediate Worker of it, therefore he points out the found of the_ thunder, as the voice of the Lord upon many waters. 3 . Though the Lord tfiould be obferved as the worker of every work, yet not at fir ft is he feen in his work to any purpofe, till we by oftner reviewing his operation about it, be fomewhat affe&ed with his glory and power therein, therefore he repeateth the fecond time, The God of glory thunderetb-, And the third time, The Lord is up-cn mxny rcxters. 4. When the thunder or any work of God is Well confidered, fome invifible thing ot God will appear ther ein? *s for example^ his powei and majefty will be evidenced in the

thunder^

thunder* for the voice of the Lord is powerful and full ofmdr

j e fty-

Verfc 5. The voice of the Lorhhreaketh the Cedars, j7a % tte Lord bredketh the (fedars of Le~ btinon. k

6. Bemahcth them alfo to skip like a Calfe: Le± banon and Syrion like a youngVnicome,

j. The voice of the Lord divideth the flames df fire.

8. The voice of the Lord fhaheth the wldemeffe 3 ths Lordjhaketh the Wilderneffe of Kadefh.

Vcrfc 9. The voice of the Lord makgththe lo'mdes to calve , and difcovereth the forrcfts : and in his Temple doth every one fpcakj>f his glory.

He infifteth in his fubjeel:, and (heweth the cffe&s thereof on trees, ver. 5. on mountains, irr. 6* on the fire of the thunder, parting it in lightening, vet. 7. on the wafte wildernefle, ver. 8. on the beafts and woods where "they haunt, ver $> Whence learn, 1. Trmtheftupidity and fenfelefneffc of man is greater thenthat of the brute crcarures, which are all more moved with the thunder; then the hearts of men for the molt part, as here may befeenin the companion, 2. One work of God dwelt upon, (hall (hew more of God then many of his Works being {lightly looked on, and parted over, as for example, this one of the thunder, corifidered with the effects, faith more then trfany •. yea one fenfible and undemanding man} will difce-ver more of God in one work ofGod,then many in their ordinary mood, either in that work, or in any other, or in all his Works.

Verfe 9. The voice of the Lord makeththekindes to calve y and difcovereth the forrefis:. an A in his Temple doth every one fpeak^ 0/his glory*

He givethafecondreafonof his exhortation 10 the mighty^ t0worjhip(jod in the beauty of bolincffe> becaufe in his Temple every one doth fpeak of his glory. Whence learn, 1. The glory of the Lord is (hewn forth in'all theearth, and in all his works, but in his Temple, in his Kirk, his works are holden forth more exprefly and fully, forthe;e,by his Word, his counfel is 'open-*V his holineffe, his ?oodne(Te ; ju'ftice 3 mercy, arid all his ' © ^ tribute^

tributes arc declared. Without the Kirk-men are impelled to Acknowledge glory now and then, but in his Kirk-men do declare his glory diftinftly and willingly. In bis Temple doth every onejpea\ ofbU glory, all men there do confeiTe his praife, and every thing in the Temple holdeth forth fomething of Chrift and his benefits, to the glory of Gods mercy, and this is more then the world underftandeth.

Verfe I o. The Lord Jittetb upon the flood : yea, the Lordfitteth King for ever,

A third reafon, to move Princes to give to God glory and ftrengthj is,becaufehis Kingdome reacheth to the ruling of the waters, and becaufe he is a King immortal. Whence learn, i,As the itrength of the Lord appeareth in all his works, fo cfpecial-ly that he ruleththe raging lea, whereby once he did drown the world, and now bindethitup, that it mould do no more fo a* gain, The Lord fitteib upon the floods. 2. No King is King over every Kingdom and King, but God is King above all Kings; No King is of long continuance, but the Lord is the evertafting King, Hefittetb J^ing for ever 5 and therefore every mighty man mould do him homage, as his King, his Lord, and fupream Superiour.

Verfe II. The Lord will give flrength unto his People : The Lord will bleffe his People with 'Peace.

The laft reafon to move Potentates to give all glory to God, and to joyne with his People in glorifying of him, is, becaufe of the bleffedneffe of his People, who worlhip him in his holy Temple. Whence learn, 1. The power of the Lord is not a-gainft his people, but for hispecp'e againft his and their e-nemies, Hegivctb ftrcngtb to bis People, to wit, againft their enemies, and for iurniming them to every part of his fervice whereunto he calleth them; The Lords People do give the glory of power aud ftrength to the Lord, *And the Lord will give ftrengtb to his People, j. The true worftippersof God, what-foever may be their exercife in the world, may be fure of reconciliation with him, and of true blefledneffe, For the Lord wilt bl-ffe his People with Hexce.

PSAL,

PSAL, XXX.

A 7 fulme and Song at the dedication of the boufe of David.

2)dz//Wpraifech God for his late deliverance, frorri the hand ofAifahm, ver. i, 2, 3. And fecondly 2 beexhorteth others to praife God alfoforhig mercies, ver. 4, 5. Thirdly, he confefTeth his carnal leeurity, and how he was corrected for it, ver.b y j. Fourthly, hefheweth how he prayed for mercy, ver. g, 9, tej And fifthly, he praifeth the Lord for his gracious anfwcr, ver. 11,12.

HTHe Infcription of the Pfalrne fheweth, that it was endited at

the dedication of'Duvids houfe, after it w:;s polluted by ^6-

filoms vilcnefle with his fathers Concubines, as Davids fecuri-

ty and trouble alter that herein dcfcribed, giveth us to under-

. ftand. JVtttnceleirn, 1. That no benefit or acature-comfort is lawful and pure to us, except it be fanclihed by the Word and Payer, except we dedicate our felres and the creatures alfo to Gods fervice; and more fpeci ally the dedication of a mans houfe, with the Ceremonies ot the law uied about the dedication

J there :f, teachethustoconfiderandto acknowledge before God;

1 That we are the Lends Tenants at will, received by him iji his lodgings, to be entertained by him during our abode on earthy It teacheth us alfo that our houtes mould be holy, both for the Pcrfons in our company, and for the exercife of Religion tie e-in daily, before and after our lawful daily refrefhmcaus and employments therein; and that the Lord only is the Preferver of us, and.of ourhou;es, againfl what evii might cthenvayes befall us, by men or devils, cr any other accident ; and that the houfe is polluted, ©fpecialiy when God is openly dishonoured therein : in which cik we are to feek mercy to ourfelvcs, and to our families, and to pray to God for the continuance of his guard about us, and his grace, to make a right ufe of our houfe hereafter, which is the fubfiance of the eld Ceremonies ufed ifi dedication of a mm houfe,

O 2 Vcrfc

Vcrfe I.T Will extol thee\o Lord fort hod haft lifted Xme up ; and htfl not made my foes to re' jojee over me*

.2, O Lord mj God, Icrjed unto thee and thon hafl healed me.

5» O Lord, thou haft brought up my foul from the grave : thou hafl kept me alive> that 1 fhould not go down to the pit.

Hcpraifeth Gcd'for a number of mercies concurring together in his deliverance, out of the hazard qf lofing both his life and his Kingdome. Whence learn > i.Thc more the Lord exalts us, we fhould humble our feives the more before him, and mag* nine his bounty : for David will extol the Lord, here, becaufc the Lord bad lifted him up. 2. The difappointment of our enemies is a new mercy,befide our delivery from their cruelty, and a rea-fon of thank fgiving to God, when he makes our foes not to rc-joyce over us, 3. When God feemeth to defert us and expofe us to hazards 5 readily our ipirits grow fick, and deadneffe of fpi-rit, (with inability to go about any point of our calling, or of his fervice) dofeifeon us; but when after the prayer of faith grounded on the Covenant, the Lord fendeth relief, it is a reviving of us again, as we fee in Davids cafe, O my God> 1 cried unto thee, and tboubaft healed mc> prcfetvation from evil, and delivery out of evil are mercies equivalent j refcuing a man from iiiffarrt death, mould be looked upon as refurre&ion from death, and acknowledged Co to be in our thankfgiving to God ; for Z)a-vid here faith, The Lord bath b,ought up his foul from the grave, bccanfe be bad \ept him alive y that be fhould not go down into the fit,

Verfe 4. Sing unto the Lord^ (O ye Saints of his) &nd give thanks at the remembrance of his holi-neffe.

5. For his anger endureth^ a moment^ in his favour is life : weeping may endure for a nighty but joy cometh in the morning.

The fecend part of the Pialme, wherein he ftirreth up o-thers to praife God for his mercies. Whence learn, 1. Dwelling a while upon the conftderation of mercies flxewen unto us 3 fcringe-th with it 1 ejoycing in God* and a (ingingdifpofition,

where*

PSAL. XXX. *P7

I ^hereunto when we are once wakened and warmed, we will | think that one mquth to praife God is too little, as here we fee in 'David, who not only praifeth God hhnfttf, butJfo letteth all the Saints on work to the fame purpofe, faying, Sing to the Lord all ye Saints of bis. 2. Albeit we had no prefent fcnfe of lately received remarkable mercies, yet by-gone experiences ot the Lords faithfulnefle and holinefle, mould give matter of thanks and praife, on all occafions,, fpecially in the Congregation, where his works arc called tominde: Givc thanks, hhh he, at the remembrance of his bolincffc. $. Albeit we were not upon the thoughts of any other particular experience, yet the known pcrfe&ions of God fhould furnifh matter, and infpecial, be-caufe howfoever we be finful and do provoke the Lord often, yet he, at he is flow to anger, fo is he foon pacified, his anger en-durethbut for a moment. 4, When reckoning is rightly made, the tokens of Gods difpleafure are but (or a moment. But the evidence of his favours to beleevers is a life-time, for in the midit of wr3:h he rcmem'bererh mercy, .and the tokens. of his favour arefarre more then of his diipl.afure, and wrath loon goeth, and favour fliinethlateft, and is of longeft continuance* Wrath is but temporary at the longeil, but favour en dure th fee .ever : His anger isbut for a moment, but in bis favour is life, yea life everlafting, 5. When the Lord fheweth himfelf angry at a foul, it is dark and cold night with.it, and what can it do, but weep or walk heavily in this cafe, when the. bridegroom is as abfenc, Weeping mxy abide for a night. 6. Unto the belecvcr the longeft winter-night hatha change to the^hetter following it: confolation is certain after a mournful tondition; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometb in the morning.

Verfe 6/ And in my profperity I/ai^ lJbaS never be moved.

7. Lerd^bjthj favour thou haftmade my mountain to ftandftrong : Then didfthide thy face, and I was troubled.

In the third place, he cometh to his late experience, which gavcoccafion and matter of this Pfalmi he aSufed his profperity, not remembering that becaufe his {landing was by grace 'therefore he Ihould have flood in awe, and feared to forget him-felf,and therefore hewaschaftifed foriz.Whencclearn,i^Achi\dt of God, after long trouble may have a time of outward reft and £ ofperit-yi for example David, whefe troubles were many, doth' Q I gckrm*

acknowledge here that he was in profperity. 2. As men in trouble do tear they fhall never be rid of it,fo then,God granteth a change to the better.they think never to be fo troubled again > This tiefhly fecurity is a foul- Tickncife, attending profpcrity, and the moil holy men may cafily be overtaken with it, for David confeiieth, 1 [aid in my projpcrily,I (hall never be moved. 3. The consideration that our {landing in any good condition, is of Gods meer favour, and grace, fhould ktcp us in fear, and trembling to offend, and prevent our falling in carnal fecurity. This David acknowledged for aggravating of his fault, Lord, by thy favour thou haft made my mountain ftrovg, 4. The Lord will not fufter his own to lie ftill in carnal fecurity , but will withdraw the bolfter and pillow of thefe benefits whereon they clo fleepe, and together with that will withdraw alfo the fweet fenfe of reconciliation, and put his own in trouble to waken them : 'Davids experience tcacheth fo much , Thou diddeft hide thy face, and 1 rvat troubled. 5. Men underftand the folly of their finful way, and of their carelefle entertaining of Gods favour, not fo well in the time of profpe-rity, as after they have fmarted for their folly, and have found the fruit of their forgctfulneffe of God, and of their too much embracing and refting on proiperity to be nothing, fave fore and fad troubles, both bodily and fpiritual 5 for this is taught us by the reckoning that David now maketh, as a Pilot, difcovering a rock, to forewarn others to beware of fecurity, and this reckoning is all after his trouble, and after his victory alfo over it*

Verf. S.Icry<?dto thcep Lord, andunto the Lord I made fafplication.

9 What profit is there in my bloodivohen J go do^Cn to the pit?[hal the duft praife thee?fhal it declare thy truth?

1 o. Hear, 0 Lord> atdhaie mercy upon me: Lord, . he tboti mj helper.

In the fourth part ofthis Pfalmehe fheweth his recovery out of his trouble, and out of his finful fecurity which drew it on; he prayed, difputcd and dealt with God, till the Lord delivered him. JVbence learn, 1. As the fire and the hammer, and the files do ferve to put off the ruft offiron : fo doth afeclion to roufe a godly foul out of fecatity, and drive him to earned Pravcr, for after trouble is come, David cryed to the Lord. 2.AI-fceitamanhath mifcarriedj and proved ungrateful to God in

his

I his profperity, and unmindcful of hisrefolutionsandpromiies made to God in his low efhte, when he came to profperity, yet when troublecometh to waken him up, and call him to a reckoning, hemuftnot defpaire nor fit down in difcouragement, in the confcience of huge guiltineffe. But becaufe the Lord is angry, and no remedy but Gods grace, he muft layhimfelfat Gods feet a fupplicant: Unto the L$rd David made fupplieation. 3. Faith in God is very argumentative, and will diipute well for the mans life, having the Covenant of grace as a ground to go upon; It will takeareafon to ftrengthen it felf from Gods

I nature, who doth not delight in the death of a penitent (inner,

i and a reafon from no advantage unto jufticc, by the mans de-ftrudtion^ whenjuftice may have fatisfa&ion in the Redeemer, and the man may be faved alio ; What profit U there in my blood* when I go down into ths pit? and a reafon from the mans pur-pofe to glorifie God, to the edifying of others in his life , if he fhould be fpared : from which mercy if he fhould be cut oft',

I it would be more bitter to him then death; Shall the duftpraijc thee ? fhall it declare thy truth 1 4. When faith hath faid to God that it hath tp fay, it will wait for a good anfwer, will relie on

his mercie, and expect relief from the Lord.as here David doth, Hexr*0 Lord* have mercy on me* be thou my helper .

Verfe Ii # Thou haft turned for me my mounting into dancing : thou haft pat off my facecloth, and gird* ed me with gladnejfe :

13. To the end that my glory may Jing p^aife to thee^ and not b* ft lent : 0 Lord, my God, I Voiti give 1 thankg unto thee for ever.

In the laftpart of the Pialme he thankfully .praileth God, for granting unto him all he defired, and obligeth himfelf to a more careful carriage, and fetting forth of Gods g'ory. Whence learn* 1. It become.h the childe of God to weep when he is beaten, and to humble himfelf in the exercife of Prayer and Fading * for Davids mourning and fack-dotb * meweth hi? exerciie into his former trouble. 2. As fecurity turneth all our joy into trouble,fo fincere feeking of God in trouble, is the way to turn all our trouble into joy, Thou hafi turned for me all my mourning into dancingsc and great is that joy which a reconciled foul findethin Gjd, after renewed feeling of the interrupted fenfe ofmeixy. 3. A well ordered tongue, watch-

P $" ir >g

*o<? PSAL. XXXI.

ing all opportunities to glorifie God, and edifie others, is a main point of a mans excellency, not only above beaits, but aU fo above all men, who do not ufe their tongue for God, and tor good to others 5 Therefore David callcth his tongue \m glory. 4. The very intent of Gc ds fhewing mercy to men, is to oblige them to give praife and glory to himCelf before the wo; Id, 7 bou baft girded me with gUdncjfc, faith he, To the end. my glory may [ing praife to tkee, and not bcfilcnt. 5. The right pfe of our experiences of Gods mercy to us,, is firft to fallen our faith in God, and to ftand faft to the Lords Covenant, made with us in Chrift, next after acknov/ledging that this is cur 4uty, tobe thankful to God, to engage our. hearts to the discharge thereof conftantly : The firft of thefe the Prophet doth here, by calling God, The Lord my God > the next he doth in fhefe words, I will give thanks to thee for ever.

PSAL. XXXI.

To the chief Mufrcixn. A Tfalme of David.

Another exercife of David, wherein he being in great danger to be taken by his enemies, prayed! for delivery, ver % i\ 2,3,4, 5, 6. Secondly, heflrengtheneth his faith by>his by-gone experience, ver. 7,3. Thirdly, in Prayer he layeth out his lamentable condition before God, ver.y^ 10, 11 3 i2 y i3.Fourthly,he wraftleth on in Prayer for comfort and fafety to himfelf, and confufionto his enemies, ver. ?4,15,16, it, 18. Fifthly, being delivered and comforted by a new experience of Gods merciful prefervation of him,he maketh good ufe of it, by praifing God for it, and cx-horteth the godly to love God and relie on him, WM9, 20,21,22,23, 24*

Verfc

FSAL. XXXI. aoi ?

N thee.O Lori h io 1 put my trufi } lit me ne~ ver be afhamcd : deliver me in thy righ-

icoufneffe.

2. 'Bow down thine ear to me, deliver me fpeedily : be thou my firongroik^for an houfe of defence to fave me.

3. For thou art my roch^andmy fortrejfe : there* fore for thy Names fake lead me and guide m\

FRom his intercft in God by Covenant, he ftrengtl c is him-felf in Prayer for delivery. Whence learn, 1. Faith avowed and maintained, furnifheth prayer, and giveth hope to be heard, for Vivid haviug firft (aid, lntbee,0 Lord.do I fut my triift; he fubjoynerh, La me vcverbeajliimcd, for this much may a believer expect, that albeit he be put to hang down the head for a little, yet he mail not at laft be afhamed. 2. As the Lordfendeth inhiswifdom, trouble after trouble, uponabe-leever, io he fendeth in his juftice and faithfalnefie, promifed delivery after delivery from oppreflbis, Deliver me in thy rigb* teoufnefje. 3. Where the danger is prefling, and the aftbdion. is ardent, the Petition may be repeated without babling, and fpeedy help may be craved without limitation of God, and hearkening to a poor fupplicant, as it weL'e, with a bowed down eare, may be prayed for without abafing of Gods Majefty, as here, "Bow down thine care to mc> deliver me fpeedily; 4. Were there but a moment betwixt us and perifhing, and our enemies ftuonger then wc, were ready to lay hands on uss faith feeth that God can interpofe himfelf fpeedily, and lift us up above our enemies reach, Be thou my fir on g rock, for abovfe of defence to five me, 5.What the Lord is engaged to be unto us by Covenant, we may pray and expect to finde him in eftccl:, 2te thoumy ftrong Roc^faithhe, for thou in my 2fyc£. 6. When trouble and uncouth paflages'difcovcr our ignorance, our blindneflc and weakneffe unto us, we have God engaged for his glories caufe, to take care of us, and to bring us through, for the Prayer of the beleever is, For thy names fa\e lead me and guide me.

Verfe 4. Pull me out of the net that they have laid privity for me, for thou axtmyfirengtb*

5. Into thine bands I commend, my fprit: thoti haft re&emedme^O Lord Cod of truth.

6» I have hated them that regard lying vanities 1 but I trtift in the Lord.

He cometh more particularly to his danger 5 and prayeth for deli-very,and ftrengthening his faith by fundvy reafons^jHtfwe learn, 1. As the children of this world are more wife in their generation, then the children of the light: fo Jo they hunt and overtake the godly, by their crafty devices againft him., They laid their nets privily againfl David, and enfnarcd him. 2. Though the godly be both weak and fimple-witted, yet they hive a wife and ftrong God to call upon, who is able to break the fnare, and fet his own free, whofe help David imploreth here, Putt me out of the net for thou art my ftrength. $. The way to quiet our mindes, in the hazard of our mortal life, (which is loon and cafily taken away, and we cannot our felves preferve,) is to put our foul over on Gods care and cuftody. Into his hands committing ourjprits. 4. The Word of God,giving affurance to the believer of his Redemption, is a ground futficient 3 to make him confidently commit his foul to Gods keepings for he may fay with warrant, Thou h aft redeemed me^O God of truth* 5(« Worldly men that beleeve not in God, have fome other thing wherein they truft befide, as riches, friendfliip, their own wit, &c, which carnal confidences are but lying vanities, whereof the true believer muft be aware, and hate the way of fuch as follow them; for David hated them, that regarded lying vanities , becaufe he trufted in god.

Verf. 7* I Witt be glad andrejoyce in thy mercy 9 for thoti haft confidered my troub'e 1 thoti haftl\nown my foul in adverfities ;

8. And hafi not fiat me af into the hand*f the enemy\ then haft fet my feet in a large room.

In the next place he ftrengtheneth his faith by his former experience., andpromifeth himfelf after thisprefent forrow, joy and gladneffe, whereof he hath fome prefent fenfe, ftirred up by calling to memory his experience Whence leamc> 1. In the imidft of trouble faith will furnim matter of joy, and promife to it felf gladncfTe 3 especially from the memory of by-paft experiences of Gods mercy 5 as here, I will rcjoyceand be glad in thy mercy* a. When abdeever is in adverfity, the Lord will

rut

not misken him, he will make him know, that even then he hath an eye upon him, and friendly affections to him,. Thou haft knmnmyfoulin adverfity. 3. Adverfary power (hall not get their will of a fixed beleever, but he (hall have delivery from them, and victory over them, cither temporally or fpiritually, cr both waves; for here is the experience of it, Thou baft: not jhut me up in the band ofthz enemy, thou baftfet my feet in a large room. 4. The ground of our gladntfle, when we have found a proof of Gods kindnefletous, (hnuldnot be in the benefit fo much, as in the fountain of the benefit; for this givcth us hope to drink again of the like experience, from the fonntain which did fend forth that benefit. Therefore David fayes, I will be glad and rejoyce in thy mercy for ever.

Verf, 9. Have mercy upon me> O Lord; for 1 am in trouble : mine eye U confumed with grief, yea, mjfoul t and my belly.

10. For my life is [pent with griefs and my ye ares withfigbing ; my ftrength faileth, becaufe of mine hm qpnty^ andmy bones are confumed.

11. I re as a reproach among all mine enemies ', but efpecUllj among my neighbours , and a feare to my acquaintance : thy that did fee me without, fled fr$m me.

12./ am for gotten as a dead mnn out ofminde : I am ; like a broken vejfel.

13. For I have heard the flander of many, feare was cneery fide : while they took counfel together agaixft me they devifed to take away my life.

Inthethirdplacehelayethout his lamentable condition, in tegardof perplexity ofminde, and decay of natural ftrength, by grief and forrow of heart, and in regard -of the contempt of his adverfaries, and neglect of his friends, and hazard of his life joyned with the fenfeof Gods difpleafure for his finnes, wherein he is a type of Chrift fuffering for our finnes imputed to him, and an example of the hard exercife of the Saints. IVbcncc learn, 1. Great and of long continuance may the troubles of the godly be, great may their grief and heavineflfe of heart be, before ijiey get comfort, as the example of this meek man, fo holy in his

way,

way,fo fubdued in his aftec'Hons, doth mew by fundry expreflions*

2. Albeit the Lord needs no words to informe him of our condition, or to move his affection to his children in trouble, yet he hath appointed us for evidencing our faith in him, and depend-ance upon him for relief, to come and tell him what ailethus; and indeed it is an eaie to thcgodJy heart, to have the Lord to fpeakunto, and lay out their cafe before him, ?s here we fee.

3. The confeience of finne joyned with trouble, is a load above a burden, and able to break a mans ftrength more then any trouble; for here he faith, my ftrength failcth becaufe of mine iniquity, and.^ my bones are confumed. 4, When the godly have many and powerful enemies, then their acquaintance and neighbours, and the multitude of the people will readily believe that all mifreports of them are true, and this maketh the grief of the godly the greater,as here,! wo/sa reproach among all mine enemies,but fpccially among my neighbours. $. When the godly fall under persecution and trou -ble,their worldly friends for fear of danger,or burden by them wi'l turn their back on them, and forget acquaintance, yea and natural bands with them alfo, and then muft the godly leanc toGod,and expect comfort from him. This is holdcn forth in this type of Chrift, and example of beleevers under tryall, I am a fear to my acquaintance, &c. 6. Long lying in trouble will make a man to be forgotten of hjsfriends^asif he were dead^and make him to lofe all eftimation at their harids,as if there were no worth in him . at all. I am forgotten m a dead man out of mind, I am like a broken veflell. 7. It is Satans policy to draw great men and Councel-lorsof State in tops with the godly, becaufe commonly whar great men efteem ot the godly,that p lfleth for curratitj& it is Satans policy firft to laden the godly with (landers, and then to per-fecute them to death, I beard thejlanders ofmanyjhcy toofi conn-fell together to lx\e away my life, 8. In a (harp triall a foul may be aflaulted with terrible tentations on all handstand feel terror and fighting within and without, fear, faith he, row on every fide.

Verf. 14. But 1 trufiedin thee, 0 Lord^ Ifaid^thou art my God.

15. My times are in thy hand xdelivtr me from the hand of mine enemies > and from them that ferjtcme

16 Make thy face to fh'me upon thy fervant: faz? me for thj mnitsfakg* 17. Let

17. Let me not be afbamed, 0 Lord, for I have called 1 upon thee : let the wicked be ajhamed.and let them be (i-lent in the grave*

1 8. Let the lying lips be put to Jilence, which/pea^ grkvotu things proudly and contemptuously againft the right eon*.

In the fourth place he wreftles by faith for delivery, and comfort in the mean time till delivery come to himfelf, and difap-pointment to his enemies. Wence learn , 1. It is the nature of faith, and it is the believers duty, to oppofe help from God, unto all tentations, were they never fo many,as here 'David did, "But I truftedintbee^Lord. i. Except we hold faft the grip of our Covenant with God,and avow it before him truft will faile,and tentations readily prevail: much ufc.made David, of the Co-• venant in his ftrait,r faid^houart my QW. 3,Faith can make good chearofthe general grounds of Gods providence, by making application thereof to its prcfent ufe. The ditpenfations of all mens comforts and troubles, life and death are in G^ds hand, and not in mens power, tfzy times are in thy bandy faith David. 4. Be-caufe all power is in Gods hand, prayer to him will prevaile more for delivery from enemies,thenany means ^ ' zs^Veliver me from the hand of mine enemies^and them that per' ae me 4 5. When tire cloud of trouble hideth the Lords favour th knoweth h may fhinc again, and therefore praveththi^.^n the cloud for diflol-Ting of it, ma^c thy face to Jhrne upon me. 6\ As we muff #11* dy to approve our felves to be the Lords fcrvants, by ttudying o-bedience to him ; So muft we make-grace and nothing elfe, fa\ e grace, the ground of cur hope to be helped, comforted, or faved. Shine upon thy [ervant> faith he, fave me for thy mercies fa\e\ 7. As the humble prayer of the perfecuted godly, mail be granted and have efted; So the proud brags, coloured calumnies, and threatnings of flanderOus and cruel adverfaries, (hall be Shamefully refuted and difappointed s and if the enemies fh&ll no: ti-moufly ccafetopetfecute, they ihall be made to ceafe in their graves, Let me not be afhamed, for Ihave catted ontbcc$ tet the roic-k?d be afiamed, and madefilcnt in their graves}, let lying lips be -put to filencc. which fpcati grievous things proudly and contempt tuoujly againfl the righteous.

Veri. 19. O how great is thy goodnejfe^ which thoti haft laid up for them that fear thee ; which thoti haft

y*rou(rh$

wrought for them that truft in thee before the fonnesof men !

20, Thou /halt hide them in the fecret of thy prC-fence.from the pride of man : thottjhalt keep them fecret ly in a pavilion > from the Brife of tongues.

2f. Blefjedbt the Lord, for he hathJbeVeed me hii marvellom kindneffe, in aflrong City.

Comfort and deliverance being the anfwer of his prayer, he praifeth God, and ftirreth up the godly to fet their hearts on God, and truit in him at all times. VVbence learn, u The bounty of the Lord to his own people feen in the Word, obferved in the Lords ordinary difpenfation towards them, and felt in a mans own experience, is able to ravifh the heart with admiration of the blefledneffe of Gods people, as here, O ! bow great h thy goodnejfel z.Befide whatconfolation of fpint theLord gtveth to his own,theLord fometimes will manifefl h much refped in his providence to his fervants, that not only the godly,but alfothey who are but children of men will be forced to acknowledge the Lords lingular refpeel: to them,andbeude what theLovd belfoweth either inwardly or outwardly upon his own in this life; there is yet more laid up for afterward, forcomplcating of the bleffednefle in the life to come, How great u thy good?ie(fe, which thou haft laid up for them thxt far thec.whicb thou haft wrought for them tint truft in thee before ibefons of men I 34 How great peace of confeience before God, and comfort in the holy Ghoft,, the Lord can give a believer when he hath to do with proud open perfecuters, and privily whifperingftandererS; It is a fecret and hidmyfteryto the worldly man: This David defcribeth in a fimilitude taken from warfare, Thou fbdt hide them in the fecret of thy prefenec from the pride of man, thou fbalt ^ecp them fecret ly in a pavilion from tbeftrife of tongues. 4. As every beleever having gotten a> jiy experience of GodsgoodneiTe, fliould read it as a particular proof of fome general promifc made to the godly; fo fhould he fubferibethe truth of that promise, in favour of all beleevers, and blefle God for his own particular experience of it; for fo doth the Prophet here, faying,tfe hatbflxwed bu kindneffe to me, that is, how kinde a God he is to his own, asinaftrong Qity y that is, preferved me inche wildernefie, as if I had been in the beft fenced City in the world, furnifhed with men, viftual and ajnunition in abundance,

Verfe

Verf. 22. For I faidinmine hafle , / am cut of

from befere thine eyes : Neverthe lejfe thon bear deft the voice ofmyfupplications^^hen I criedunto thee.

Heconfeffeththegreatdiftrefshewas in, and how weak his faith was under the tentation 5 this he doth to his own fhame acknowledge alfo,that he may give the greater glory to God.Wbence learn, 1. The faith of the godly maybefhaken, and the ftrong-eft faith may fometime fhew its infirmity. I fiid intnyhajtejam cutoff from before thine eyes. z. Though faith be fhaken,yet it is fixed in the root,as a tree beaten by the winde,keeping ftrong grips of good ground ; Though faith feemeto yield, yet it fail-eth not, and even when it is at the wcakeft, it is uttering it fclf in fomc ad, as a wreftler; for here the expreffion o(Z)avids infirmity in faith is directed to God, and his carneft prayer joyned with it, I am cut off from before thine eyes, ytt thou bear deft the voice of my fufplications. $< Praying faith, how weak foever, mall not bemifregardedofGodjfor neverthelefs faith he, tbdu bcardeft the voice of my fuf plication + 4. There may be in a foul at one time both grief oppreffing, and hope upholding : both darknefs of trouble; and the light of faith, both defperately doubting r and ftrong griping of Gods truth and goodneis, both a fainting and a fighting > a fceming yeelding in the fight, and yet a ftri-ving of faith againft all oppofition; both a foolifhhafte, and a fettled ftayednefs of faith, as here, I [aid in my bafte, &?c.

Verf, 23.O love the Lord, all ye his Saints * for the Lord preferveth the faithful, and plentiful^ rewarded the proud doer.

24. Be of good courage , and he fhall ftrengthenyout \heart: all ye that hope in the Lord.

Now he maketh farther ufe of his experience, in exhorcing alt the godly to follow his example, encouraging them yet with hope of like fuccefs. Whence learn, 1. The gracious dealing of God with believers, mould glew their own hearts, and all ether Saints (heartsthat hear of it, unto God in faith and Jove. O love the Lord all ye bis Saints, Re \>uitcth\ove for faith, becaufe it is inseparable from faith, and iaithworketh by love, and loveproveth 1 the fincerity of faith, z The faithful man mall not want an upholder, albeit he had no friends: for the Lord prefervetb the faithful. 3. The proud man fhall not want a purfuer, and one to be avenged on him for hispride and oppreffion, though all the world

timti

fliould let him alone, for the Lord, doth plentifully reward the proud doer. 4. Albeit oppolition be made unto a believer, yet muft he refift every thing which might put him back from fruiting in God 5 for it becometh a believer to be flout. Be of good courage. ?. Who fo aimeth at courage in the Lord, fhall be fur-niflied with ftrength to double out his undertaking of faith, 2?e 0/ good courage , and be Jbatl Jireugtben your heart. 6. Hope grounded on the promife, muft be fixed, that our courage be fo founded, not our felves, but on the word of God, Be of good courage My e that hope in the Lord.

PSAL. XXXIL

Ttavid in this Pfalm defcribeth the blefTednefTe of the man juftified by faith by way of general Do<3rine,fet down,verf. 1, 2. Which he cleaN eth by his own experience, verf. 3,4,5. Then he fheweth the ufes both of the genera} do$rin,& of his own experience; Firft, for inducing the godly, to go to God by prayer in trouble^.6. Secondly, for confirming of his own faith, verf. 7. Thirdly, for teaching all men fubmiffion to God, and not to ftrive with him when he doth corred or exer-cifethem, verf. $.9. Fourthly, for believing in God in all conditions, verf. 10. And fifthly, for making the Lord the joy and delight of the juftified man.

MAfchil is put in the infeription of the Pfalm , fignifying inftru&ion, to teach us, That the Do&rine of juftification hy faith is a leflbn which all men had need to learn, and to learn more and more folidly 5 becaufe falvation and daily confoladon Jnall the exercifesof a mans foul dependeth on it.

Verf. 1. O Lefedis hevihok tranfgreffion U for-

O given , whofe fin U covered* % • Blefedls the mm unto Whom the Lord impttteth

not

ftdt iniquity : and in who ft fpirit there is no guile.

IN the Doctrine fe: down in the two venes; Leim, 1. That finne draweth on a debt which no rrian can fatisfie for : fuch ^ debt ,as a nian muft perim, if i: be rtot forgiven. 1. Sin is a fil-thinefk, which neither God can behcla, without abominating the (inner, nor the guilty confeience can look upon without horror, accept it be covered. $.Sinne draweth on a guiltineHe,which may draw men to damnation if it (hail be imputed. 4. There is no juftification of a (inner by his good works before God, but only by the fdrgiveneife of his evill works, as the Apoftle, Rom. 4. 6 } 7, 8. citing this place, proveth, Blcffedis he wb'ofe tranf-greffioii is forgiven. 5. Juftification by faith, or remiflion gf fins is accompanied with right urito falvatidn, becaufe it is written, Blejfed is the mm wbofe tranfgrejfibn is forgiven. 6. Juftifi* cation by faith, or abfolution from fin, is accompanied ilfp with the upright endeavour of fan&ification $ for of die jultified man " t is faidj Blejfed is the mm in wbofe fpi it there is kg guile* 7- Albeit nb man liveth and finneth not,yet God hath away to cleanfe the confeience of the upright man, who honeftly and without guile., endeavdureth to walk before God, by bringing him to give' account of his d^bt, and to acknowledge his filthinefte, and his guild nefie before Godj and then for Ghriils fake forgiving bim, and with Ch.ifo righteoufnefle covering him,m& for Chrifts me* diation, not imputing iniquity unto him.

yerfij}. When I kept fierce i my bones Waxed old\ through my rooting all the day long.

Verf. 4* For day and night thy hand Wat heavie up* tin nte : my moyfltire ti turned into the drought of Sum-rner. Selah*

He declareth this Doctrine by his own experience, how Gbd$ wrath never left perilling of him, till he came, to iriake ufe of this doc"fcrine,acknowledging his fin,& fleeing to the benefit of reaaif-fionof(in,for the blood of the MefTxah, the Lamb flain from the beginning of the World, in the fymbole of the expiatory facrifice then daily offered for (in. IPlience leirn, 1. That man is fitteft to fpeakof the Doftrine of mans (in and mifery, and of Gods free grace and mercy, who hath felt the bitte'-nefle of fin and wrath, andthefweetnefieof Gods grace by experience of Gods pardon, therefore is 'this Doftrine recommended tothe Kkk by 25*W X V

no PSAL. XXXII.

Who had felt both. 2. Ajuftified man who knoweth the Do* ftrine of Juftification by faith inChrift, poflibly, yea readily, may forget to make ufe of this precious truth, when he hath moft need of it, being under guiltinefTe, and the prenure alfq of Gocls fatherlywrath for it; for 'David for a while being in this condition, was Clients and came not effat firfl to feek relief, the right way : for he kept lilence. and did not come to the acknowledgement of his fin, but was taken up only with the fenfe of the Rod, 3. When the Lord is about to make his childe fenfible of his fins, and of the acceflity of a free remiffion of them, through the Me-diat.au*, he can awake the confeience of (in, by the fenfe ot fad affliction, and can encreafe the heat of the furnace, and make his childe roare for iorrow and paine, and thereby weaken his natural ftrength ; and wafte his fpirits and his flefh, and his bones, and 4ri ye him to deaths dorc,till he make ufe of the Doctrine of Juftification, or remiffion of fin by faith in God the Redeemer; This was Davids cafe, when he \cpt fiiencc, bis bones waxed obd^ Godf band w06 beavie upon him. night and day, and the fap of his body, wasdriedup as a piece of moift earth is dried in the drought of Summer.

Verf. 5. I acknowledged my finne unto thee: and mine iniqmtj have I not hid : lfaid^ I will confejfe my tranfgrejfions unto the Lord, and thouforgaveft the iniquity of my fin. Selah.

At laft the Lord led him to the right remedy,points out r thc way unto him of humiliation, and confeffion of fin, and feeking of mercy, as it is prefcribed in the Word, and fo he was relieved. Whence learn, 1. Before the Lord let his chiide go from under the Rod; after he hath given him an efiay of himfelf, and of his own way how unprofitable it is, he will brins; him about to the right way of relief, as here »ve fee. 2,. The onely way to quiet the conscience, to pacific wrath, and remove judgement, is ingenuously to confeUe fin, and to aggravate it fincerely (laying afide extenuations, excufes, and fubterfuges , for juiWying of Gods dealing with us, and for humiliation of our own felves before him,,) and to fiie to Gods mercy, laying out all before him, as before a gracious God, who doth purfue controverfies with his own, only to th'intetlt, that they may make peace with him in the; Med lap our, and fo be reconciled. So did David, b e acknowledged his fin, and that unto God, be. not hid bis iniquity. 3. Reconciliation with God, and renewing our peace is ready at hand*

when

Men We take the right way (asisfaico) to be delivered , for fd foone as David refolved upon this coune>and faid, be would cm-fcffe, it followeth, Thou jorgxvefl the iniquity ofmyfih.

Ycrf, 6. For tbisjhall everv one th.it m godly fr^ty untathee^ in a time when thou maicft b* found \ furely in the floods of great waters^ they Jhall not come nigbun-to htm,

The Gift ufe of this Doctrine and of Davids experience is to teach othc 1 s how to behave thcmfclvcs in their trouble. Whence team, i. The Doctrine of Juitirication by gracious forgiving iniquity, is the ground of all the goalies approaches to God, and right Worfhipping of him^ for to {hew the life of this Doctrine, thus tried by experience, he faith, Every goiy one ftall pray unto tike* z. There is a tims when God may be found, to wit, fd long as God is offering grace, and fparing extremky of wrathj which time men ought to lay hold on, not knowing how fhorn while it may laft. They mall pray in a time when thou maye/t be

I found. 3. It is poffible, that a godly man may be in the middeft of the waters of fore troubles, and yet theie troubles not come near Unto him, becaufe God can furnilh the man an Arke in Chriitj whereby he (hall fwim above the delug.e : and when God keep-

I cth off trouble, that it proveth not hurtful, (much more when he maketh trouble a means of fpi ritual good to a man, andgiveththe man true peace and contentment in himfelf) it is verified wh3t

( ispromifedherc, Surely in the floods of great waters they jhall

, Tioi come near him.

Verf* J. Thouatt my hiking pLtce, thou Jh.ilt preserve me frorh trouble : thou fhdt cotnpaffe Me about

1 with fongs ofddiverance* Selah.

From the fecond u'e wherein T>avid conflnr-eth his own faitti for time to come. Learn, i. Experience of Gods mercies by-gone fhoyld faftcn refolution,to make ufe of faith hereafter in all trou-

'ties, as here. 2, The godly after one trouble, mould prepare for another, after one delivery expect another, as here. 3. What God hath proved himfelf torbe to us before, we may promife, he fhall be the fame to us in effect hereafter,becaufe he is that by Ccv venant and promife to us, what in practice we have found him to

be; for D<ra"rf reafoneth thus, Thou art mine hiiing pla;c, thou

f;alt prefcrve me from trouble, that is, I fhall have no dammage

by trouble, as is {aid. 4 A juilinedfoul refolving to make ufe

P x of

Hi PSAL, XXXII.

of God in every'condition that can come unto him, accordi ng to the Covenant, may piomile to himfelf a comfcrtable out-gate of all his troubles, and matter of praife and joy from God on all hands, yea, he may confidently fay with Vavid, Tbou fait com-pajfe me about with joyful deliverance.

Verf. 8. Iwiilinjirtillthee^ a<d teach thee in the way which thou fh.ilt go \ I will gtiide thee with mint eye,

p. He ye not as the horfe > or as the mule which have nounderftaxd'wg: whofc month muft be be/din With bit and bridle^ left they come, neer unto thee.

From the third ufe of teaching others to be wife, by his exam-ficpLeaniy 1. The right me of experience is to edifie others as our calling requirethj when we are converted,we fhoula ftrength-cn our brethren, tor this Vavid doth, I will inflnitt thce,'tyc* 2. When we have he.ud how others have been afilicled,we fhould be wifer, and take infttudion by their example, that we ftrive not with God,but fubmit cur felves under his hand, acknowledge our fins, and feeiV mercy of him : Be not m the horfe or the mule, "^.Whofcever will not fubmit unto God, and feek unto his favour, fliall finde them felves fo much the more hardly dealt with, as horfe and mules are bound in with bit and bridle.

Verf. io» Many for rows (hall be to the Vvicked-.but he that truftethin the Lord , mercy Jhall compare him about\

¥rom the fourth ufe of maintaining a courfe of adhering to God in all conditions, becaufe it fhall be better with the believer, then with the wicked5 Lcarn y 1. There is no advantage to be had by repining againft God, only the multiplication of for-rows mall follow thereupon, (in upon lin,wrath upon w:ath,judg£-ment upon judgement; nr.d after temporal evils, everlafting mall follow, for miv.y [orrowsfall be to the wicked. 2. Not repining againft God, taking with our chafti fern ems, acknowledging of our fins in our affliction 5 feeking in to Gods mercy, and leaning unto him, putteth difference between the wicked and the godly; for here the believer is fct in oppofition to the wicked,and to the man that is like a horfe or mules for he is called the man that. truftetb in the Lord. $. Whatfoever temation, trouble, or oppofition, ftiall make affault againft the believer > mercy (hall make

the

the defence, and (hall give the deliverance on all hands.,/or mercy Ji?all compajfebim about.

Vcrfe II. Be glad in the Lord^ and rejojc y ye righteous : andftom for joy^all jt that are upright in heart.

From the lafi ufe of making God oik joy and delight; Learn %

j. Such as underihnd the way of J uftirkarion by grace, and

have fled to Goi tor pardon of tin, and fo are juftified, have

great matter of rejoycing, and fiiouM make crinfeience to ue-

1 Joyce in God: for to them it is h[d,Rcjoyce,yc righicom. 1. The

juftified. man is no counterfeit u\ :he marter cf Religion,

nor hypocrite .in the mat-cr of outward obedience to the

Lords Law, He is a righteous min, be is upright in heart'. $.The

matter of his joy and triumphing ii the Lo.d nitnfelf, his grace,

• his good-will^ his Covenant, hispromiie, and cor;A.1 at kindc-

,ncfle and mercy, for it is (aid to them, Be gtai in tbe'Lord.

PSAL. XXXtH.

■ This Pfalm in Gods Providence hath no Xnferipti* on, as alfo many others have none; that we may look upon holy Scriptures as altogether indirect ofGod, and not put price upon it, for the Writers thereof, whether their name be expreiled or not. In it there is firft an exhortation to praife God, ver. 1,2,3. for his powerful, wife, and righteous government of all things in general, 2w. 4,5. and more fpecially for his powerful guiding the works of Creation, ver. 6 9 7. Secondly, an exhortation, as to praife God, fo alfo tofearehim, for his Omnipotency, and hispow* frful over-ruling and difappointing all the devices of men againft his Kirk, and his powerful executing all his own will, ver. g, 9, 1 o, 11. Thirdly, a proclaiming the bleflednefle of the Lords Kirli and People, and of Gods praifes in reaching his Providence over all the wpcld, in favours of hi§ P 3 People,

people, vzr. 72,13, 14, 1-. InfpeciaLfordifap-pointing and evacuating a$l vainc confidences of men, great and fmall, who do not truft in him, ver. 16,17. and taking care of fucb as fear him, and truft inhim,to deliver them from all evil,wr. 18,19. Fourthly, the ufe is fet down which the godly do make of this do,ftrine, and fong of praife ? wr. 20, 21, 22.

Verfe I.T3 Bjoyceinthe Lord, 0 je righteous: for JLv praife is comely for the upright.

2. Praife the Lord tyith Harp : fing unto him with $he I[alleyy , and an inflrnment of ten firings*

3. Sing unto him anew Song, play skilfully with 4 loud noije.

FRom the exhortation made to the godly to praife God, Leirne^ 1 ♦ That to rejoyce in God is a point of praifing of him tor it is here expounded to be praife; 3{pjoyce in the Lord, faith he^ for praife h comely, 2. Albeit all be bound to praife God} yet none will do it chearfully and acceptably, fave only the godly; 7{cjoyce, ye righteous. 3. There is no excrcife more becoming the godly, thenprailing of God, whether we look to the object of the praife, which is Gad, or whether we look to their obligation above all People in the world; For praife is comely to the upright. 4. There is no excrcife whereunto we had more need to beftirrcdup, then to praife 5 fuch is our dul-neiTe, and fuch is the excellency and neceffity of the work, as the Ceremonial ufe of-mufical instruments in the paedagogie of Mofes,did fignifie and import, the religious ufe whereof albeit it be taken away, with the reft of the Ceremonial Law; (the natural or civil ufe thereof remaining ftill the fame, both before the Ceremonial Law and after it,) yet the thing figni6ed 3 which is the^bending all the powers of our foul and body to, praife God, is net taken away, and this neceffity of our up-ftir-ring is imported in a threefold exhortation. $ t The praifes of the Lord, being well confidered, will yield continually new, matter, and frcm delight in the work. Sing unto]rim> faith he, 4 new Song, - ( Verfe

PSAL. XXXIII. si*

Verfe 4. For the Wordof the Lord is right : and all hid works are done in truth.

5. He loieth righteoufnefe And judgement: the earth ts full of thegoodnejfe of the Lord.

From the arguments of praife taken from his good governing of all thinps in the general. Lcarnc, i«The powerful appointment of what is done in the world , and the execution thereof in effect, is moft holy, juft and equitable, that the creatures are fo ranked as they are, fome of them fuperiour, fome inferiour > fomeof them ruling, fome of them ferving S fome of them ftronger, fome weaker; fome of them agreeing to other, fome of them difagreeing one from another $ fome of them feeding upon, and others of them made food and prey toorhers; all making up a harmony of well ruled concords and iiifcords, all is done well and equitable; for, The IVord of the Lord is rights and all his worses are done in truth. ~2. The Lord cannot but do juftly, becaufe his nature is fuch, Helovtthrigh^ tcoufneffe a?idjudgement. $. ThcLeisnopartof thewprld we can fee our eyes upon, but it fpeaketh praife to God for lis bounty to his creatures, and fpecially to man. The earth is full o f the goodneffe of the Lord.

Verfe 6. By the word of the Lord were the heavens - made : and all the hofte of them, by the breath ofh* j mouth.

7. He gatherethtbe waters of the Sea together as I an heap, he layeth up the depth in fiore-honfes.

From the Works of Creation. Learn, i. The omni potency

and wifdomofQod in creating heaven and earth,and all things

of nothing -> as they do praife God, fo alfo do they prove the

power andrighteoufneiTe of his governing them. 'BythcJVorA

cf the Lord the heavens wcrcmidc. i. How eafie a thing it is

; to God, to govern and guide the World well., appeireth by his

making of all things at a word, He made all the bofle of them

\fy the breath of his mouth , and it can coil: him no more to up-

holdand rule them at hispleafure. $• He is able to ward off

whatfoever evil can befal us; lor he gathers the writers of the

ifcaatanhcapywhich naturally would over-flow the earth, 4 Hs

! hath more bands over cur heads to ke:p us in fear, and all b:forc

| him, and amongft the reft, He Liyctb up the deep in (icrc-houfct^

' to let them loofe, whbi and where* and how fane he pka-

I fetlu p 4 ycrU

m* PSAL. XXXIII.

Verfc 8. Let all the earth feare the Lord : let all the inhabitants of the world fland in afte of him.

p. For he fpake > and it Was done , he commanded^ and it ftoodfaft.

10. The Lord bringeth thecomfelofthe heathen to nought : he maketh the devices of the people of none tffett.

11. The coHnfeloftheLordflmdethfor ever, the thwghts of his heart to all generations*

In the fecond place, he exhorteth as to praife, fo alfo to fear him. Whence learn, i. The right ufe of the works of Creation is, to take up, how glorious and how dreadful the Creator of them is, and to bettj e to offend him, Let all the earth feare he-* fore the Lord. i. ^Jo man on earth is exempted trcmGods judgement, when he -a^fgrcifah Gods Law, albei'hebe without the Kirk: Let all the inhabitants of, the world ft and in arc e of him. j. His omnipotency manifefted in framing and feeling the frame otthe world at a wo;d: fhould move men to feare him i fojc it is given for a reafon to fcare him, Becaufc heffdhpy an <t it was done > he commanded? 'and it ftoo \ faft* 4. Such as feare not God, hive many devices of their owne, laowto make themfclves bletfed, and how to overturn his Kirk and People; but Goddifappointeth them of their defigne, both i n the one and in the other; He bringeth the counfel of the Hex -then to nought , and he maketh the devices of the people of none effect, and therefore all ihouid feare him. 5. The whole woik o£ the Lards Providence, from the beginning of the wovld to the end thereof, is all at once before his eyes, and all the Lords, work is deliberately fixed by him $ Tbccounfel.of the Lord (land-cth for ever. 6. T4ie Lord goeth on in executing of his determinate refolution, from nne generation to another, without being fruftrateof his<purpofeinany thing, kfle or more at a-? nytime: The counfelof the Lordftandctb forever, the thoughts, of his I. art to all. generations. 7. Such as follow Gods dire-, ttion, do obey his revealed Will* do take thecourfe let down by him in his Word, for their reconciliation with him, through the Tylcfliah Chrift, anddofet his Word before them, to be the rule of their faith and obedience, cannot be difappointel of what is promifed byGodin his revealed m\\,FortbccounfclofthQ, Lord, fiandcthfer ever, and the thoughts of his heart tQ allgeneri-thus. « -Verfi

Verfc 12. Bleffed is the Nation whofe Cod is the Zord : an&the Teop'e whom he hath chofen for his oVvn inheritance.

13 - The Lord looketh from Heaven: he beholdeth all the fonnes of men.

14. From the f lace of his habitation, he looketh up^ on all the inhabitants of the earth.

15. He fafhioneth their hearts alike ; he con ft-dereth aU their Works*

In the third place he fheweth the blefTednefle of Gods people 3 in order to his pnife who hath chofen them, and wno doth dif-pofcof all things tothei<: behoof. Whence learn, u Of all the people on the earth, the Lord hath only entered in Covenant with his Kirk, to be their God in a peculiar way j for here, There is a Ration whofc God is the Lord. 2. Such as dc lay hold on God as their God, are the only bierTed peopicin the wc rid; foritisfaid, Blejfed utbat Union, whofc God U the Lord, 3-Suchasinthefenfc of their own fin and mifery, and consideration of the vanity of all things befide God, have chofen Gad for their God, to live in Communion w th him, they have evidence of their Election, for they are here called*, The people whom he kith chofen* 4« Such People, as is faid, are that peculiar portion of the world, which God hath lee apart for himfelfto draw the rent of his glory in the woild by them, and from them in a fpecial way, and whom he will keep in his poffeflion for ever, and not fuffer him felt to be bereft of them; For they are the People whom he huh chofen for his inheritance^ $. Though the Kirk be the only inheritance cf God, yet the reft of the world is the object of his wife* holy and powerful providence, no lefie then the Kirk, The Lord loofah down from heaven), and beholds all the fonnes of men. 6. There cannot be a plot on earth againft G:ds Kirk, but God is privy to it, and knoweth it perfectly * for from the place of his habitation, be looketh on all the inhabitants of the earth 7. The L id cannot be ignorant of the moftlecret device ofmen, bene: or worfe, be-caufehe is the Miker of the hearts of all men, He fafiionetb their hearts alike, (trut is, the heart of one as well as of another) be govfidcreth all their wor^s, that he may make, of them what ne will, 8. Men had necJ tocoofider ^hereupon their heart is fetj, and what couife they are upon, and what work they are a-

bout,

bout, for he knoweth the heart, and confidemb every mans work*

Verfc 16. There u no King fayed by the multitude cj an hofie: a mighty man is not delivered by much ftrength.

17. Ankorfeisa v*ine thing for fafety ; neither , fh.tllhe deliver any by his great ftrength.

18. Behold the eye of the Lord is upon them that feare him : upon them that hope in hU mercy :

19. To deliver their foul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.

Here he fets at naught all the carnal confidence of men, that his People may neither feare their enemies, nor truftin then-own furniture, and preferreth milling in God, to all carnal confidence whatfoever. Whence learn, t. Trufting in meanes, (fuch as a mans ftrength, and the afliftance of other mentor 0-ther creatures,) is an errour fo natural, and fixed, as it had need to be refuted by God, who hath fair 1 , that they are a vaine confidence tolcane unto, which cannot deli ver a man. There U no Ki n g faed h the multitude of an hiflc, a mighty mm is not delivered, by much (ircngtb, and a horfe is a vaine thing for fafety : And the actual fruftrating of mens hopes, to be helped by authority, ftrength, or external helpes, mould teach men not toleaneto them, when they are making ufe of them. 2. The man that beleeveth in God, and fearethhim, is in a more fafe condition, then the wicked in all their power and riches: Be-boldy the eye of the Lord is upon them that feare bim, and hope in his mercy to deliver them* 3. The whole perfection of a Chri-ftian life is comprised in thefe two, trufting in Gods mercy, and fearing him : for this is the defcription here of the Elect, and blelfeaman. 4. The godly cannot fecure thcmfe}ves from being brought in ftraits and neceffities, but may be five that God mail have a care of them in their necefliues, and give them ableffed out-gare out of them all, For bis eye is on them 9 to deliver them from death ? and to b L eep them alive in famine.

Verf. 20. Our foul waiteth for the Lord 3 he is our help and curfhield.

21. For our heart fhall rejojee in him j becaufe we have ttufted in his holy Name.

22. Let

II. Let thy mercy {0 Lord) be upon us -.according as rre hope in thee.

In the laft place is fet down the ufeof this doctrine, which the godly fhould make of it. Whence learn, 1. All the points of the Lords piaifc, are props of the Saints faith, and grounds of their hope, as this Conclufion drawn from this long of

Eraife, doth mew : Our foul waitcth for the Lord , (pc. 2. Every elcever may rejoyce, and promife tohimfelfcaufe ofrejoycing through faith in his name. Our hearts ft all re)oyctin him, bc-caujc voe have trujled in him. 3. Faith alwayes diflferenceth it fe If from preemption, by praying for what is promifed, / et thy mercy be uponvA, fay the Believers. 4. Bccaufe the hope of the godly is grounded upon Gods promifes, therefore it (hall not be disappointed, But Gods mercy ft all be on them, according as they hope in him.

PSAL. XXXIV.

A V>*\me of 2)avid, when he changed his behaviour before A-bimclecb) and he drove Hmmay^andhc departed.

In this Pfalme David praifeth God, for his delivery from the King of gat h 9 and exhorteth others to praifeGod with him, for his experience of Gods mercy, ver. I, 2,3,4. 5,£. Then for making farther u(e of this mercy, he gives out general do&rines concerning Gods prote&ion and care of his children, with the ufes thereof, wr.7,8, 9,10. Thirdly, he givcth counfel how to lead ableffed life, wr. 1?, 12, 13, 14. Fourthly, he enforceth his counfel by promifes to the godly, who obey Gods counfel, andthreatnings to the wicked man,who obeyeth notyzw. 15,16,17, 18,19,20,21,22.

FRomthc-Infcription m learn, 1. That it is to *ood pur-pofe toobtevcfpccial mercies, in a ipecial manner, and to

note

mo PSAL. XXXIV.

note the circumftances thereof as here is done, 2. And that men in a prepofterous fear, flying from onhanger, may fall in another worfe, as David did, when he fled into an unhallowed place, amongft Gods enemies for fear of Saul, he fallcth in Abimckcb or Acbifh hinds. $. And that God pitieth the infirmity of his children and gives fucceile, whiles to weak and unthrifty-mitts, as hcYtwhenTlavid changed his behaviour y he efcaped. 4. That God can and doth difpoje of mens hearts, as he hath a mindeto work by them, for he dad move the heart of Acbijh not to take notice of David, otherwife then of a di-ftracted man.

Verfe I,T Will blejfe the Lord at all timet: his \praife{h&\\ continually be inmymwth. 2. jMj foul jbdl make her boajl in the Lord : the humble Jbdlheare thereof and be glad.

HEpromifeth here for his own part to praife God for the mercy received : Whence learn, 1. As no mercy mould be mifregarded, fo, notable mercies mould be fpecially remembered, and God blefled for the fame, 2. It is a point of thank-fulneflc, to take all occafions to fpeakof God toother, His praife Jhall be continually in my mouth. J. Whatfoever be our condition in our felves,matter of gloriation in God fliali never bt wanting to the believer, and this gloriation is a duty and a point of praifing G od, My foulejball maf^e bc^boafi in the Lord. 4.Only humble fouls fenfiblc of their own weaknefs are the people who doreap benefit by Gods mercies, beftowed on others and themfclvcs : The bumble Jhall beare and be glad.

Verfe 3 • O magnifie the Lord with me % and let us exalt his Name together.

4. 1 fought the Lord, and he heard me y and delivered me from allmjfeares.

He exhorteth others to praife God with hirn,magnifying him for hisgreatnefs, and exalting him for his highneffe. Whence Uarn 5 i.The Saints are obliged to help one another in praifesas well as in prayer: albeit it cometh to pafie that many do crave the aide of others prayers, who call not for their help to praife ; for here it is, Let m exalt bis name together. 2. B y Prayer the £ord is fought and found 5 and it is no fmall matter of comfort to

ttS

PSAL. XXXIV. m

as, and glory to God, that our prayer is regarded : I fought the Lord, faith he, and he beard me. 3. The fear of what is like to be, fliould not hinder prayer, for the fears of the godly, are not cer-taine prophecies : for God can deliver cut of them all, He delivered mean of all my fcarcs.

Verf. 5. They looked unto him and were lightened : and their faces were not ajhwud.

6. Thi4foor%an cried, and the Lord heard him, andfavedhimout of all his troubles.

He is glad and commendetb Gods goodneflc to him for the fruit of this mercy to other believers. Whence learn, r »One mans experience may be an encou' agemenc to many, to run to God for the like sinus. This David rbrefeeth mall be the fruit of Gods mercy to him, when men f.cing him delivercd,fhail look to God, and take comfort, and confidence by this m:ans. Tbcy loo\eio% t him, that is, on David, and fo may we on Chrift (reprefented by him) and at the fulnelTe of the Godhead dwelling in Chrift J So they were lighrened, and thus comforted in the middeft of the darknefTe o; their troubles: and their faces roere not ajlumed 5 be-caufe of confidence raifed by this experience, rhat they fhoukl finde die like mercy, when they ftcod in need. 2. The way to make belt ufe of the example of Gods mercy to anyperfonfet down in Scripture, or which fall forth in our time,, or are made certainly known to us any way, is to look upon them, not as they differ from us or cur condition,but as'they draw ncareft in fimili-tuctetous, and unto tbe mean condition we are into, for fo do the Saints look on David, laying, Not this ra< e Saint David or this great prophet David, or this holy man David, who was according to Gods heart; but this p;or man David cried, and the Lord heard bim,and faved him out of all bis troubles.

Verf, 7. ^heiAngel of the Lordencamfeth round About them th^tjfear htm, and delivereth them.

8. 0 tafle and fee that the Lord is good: bleffed is the man that trufieth in him.

In the next place are fet down general Doctrines concerning Gods care of believers, to £iote& and feed them; and tbeufcs thereof; To trull aad fear Cod. Whence learn, 1, A right fight of Gods dealing with a mans own feif, will give him great light about the Lord* manner of dealing whh others, his children-/

dren, as here. 2. Though the godly walk among foes, and be in a continual warfare, yet they are well looked to and guarded. The Angel of the Lord encampeth round about them. 3. The fenfe of Gods mercy and goodneile, is the fweeteft thing that ever was felt,and is able to feafonthc bittereft cup that ever a believer drank o(: Tafte and fee that the Lord is good, 4. By faith is the tafte of this fweetnefle gotten: for blcffed is the man that trilfts in him* 5. All that the believer can attain to in this life of (piritual consolation, whether by faith or experience fweetened with lively comforts of the holy Ghoft, is but a tafte in comparifon of what is to be had hereafter,and yet that tafte, O how fwecc a joy, unspeakable and full of glory is it ! . 0 tafte and jce that the Lord is good. 6. Affliction purgeth the tafte of the believer, and a foul driven from all worldly helps, is but fitted for exercifing(piritual fenfes, as here we fee, Ttavids tafte is purged well after trouble. 7. As God is very communicative of his goodneife, and offereth himfelf to men to be taken a proof of: fo alio gracious fouls do wifti and invite others to fhare with them in whatfoever grace the Lord doth bellow on them, as David doth here, faying to alii •C tafte and fee. 8. Albeit this Iweetnelfe be not found at the firft out-putting of faiths yet let faith reft on God, and it Shall feel in due time^ for bleffed is he that putteth his truft in God$ yea, faith it felf is a tafte of that grace that is in God,

Verf. c* O fear the Lord ^je his Saints -for there is no want to them that fedr him.

lo 4 The young lions do lack,, and f&jfer hunger i hut they that fee^ the Lord, Jha/l not want any good

thing.

Another Doctrine concerning Gods care to ked and provide for all neceffary furniture, unto the believer, with the itfe thereof, which is to fear God. Whence learn. 1. True believers in God muft ftudy holinefs, for evidencing of their faiths for therefore are they called Saints, and his Saints. 2. The fear of the Lord is the property of the Saints, whereby they are fet on work to do what the Lord commandeth, and to forbear what he forbiddeth; and no bonds of inclination, counfel, example, lawes, feare of fliame, or puniihment from men, are able to keep a man in order when he meeteth with a fit tentation to fin, but the fear of God reftraineth the man both outwardly and inwardly, in fecret, and oj>en ; alwaye > ajid every where j and whatfoever meafure of holy

ly fear the Saints have attained unto, yet may they be exhorted, and rauft hearken unto exhortation, to grow in this grace: O fear the'Lord\ye bit Saints. 3. Such as fear God, need not to want any neccffary furniture in Gods fervice, for there is ?io want to them that fear him. 4- Proud oppreflbrs, wealthy and potent Princes, that truft in their own power, fhall not be fo fure of their own Handing and furniture, as the meaneft of true believers are. The lien* do lack Md fujfer hunger, but they that feeli the Lori fiall not want. Though the godly may want many earthly things, yet fhall they have food and raiment, and fhall not want any good thing. 6, The right fort of fearing of God, and labouring for more and more near communion with him, are infeparable properties of the Saints, for they that are called Saints, are called here fearers of him, and feeders of him alio.

Vcrf. it. Qome^je children,hearken mto me J will teach j on the fear of the Lord.

12. what man u he that dejtreth life: and lovsth many dayes : that he may fee.good?

13. Keepthy tongue from evill, and thy lips from freaking guile.

14. Depart from evill, and do good: feek^feace y and fttrfue it.

In the third place, he giveth direction how a man mall live blefledly, by evidencing thefincerity of the fear of God inhim,, which is a grace infeparable from faith in God, manifeiling k feW in obedience to hiscommand§. whence learn, 1. There mould be fuch mutual love and refpect between .the teacher and the people taught, as is between parents and children $ yea, God in his fcrvants offereth himfel fas a father ready to ihftfuq his vifible Kirk,as histhild'venr Qome, ye children, faith he, and hearken y.ntome. 1. The true tear of God is the way to live blefledly in this life 5 where mifery moil aboundeth, and this mould be a motive to feek after this grace, for it is asked here, What man is he that defirctb life, &c? and then the way to attain to it, is Cqz down in fome paiticulars-of the fear of God, as the infeparable companions oi faith in God. 3. The true {tax of God muft-evidence it felt by the fruits thercof,fuch as are the ruling of mans tongue, and of the reft of the outward man;efchewing whatioever.theLord forbids, and endeavouring every good duty which God corn-nundeth ; and the keeping peace with all men (0 farre as in us li-

cth;

eth,for fo doth the Prophets words bear >verf. 13, 14. This is the evidence of the fear of God in effect, when fuch outward works proceed from inward principles of faviiig grace;

Verf. 15. The eyes of the Lord are upon the rights cm : and his ears are open unto their cry,

16 * The face of the Lord is agAinfi them that do cviU to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth*

Inthelaftplace heprefleththis Doctrine by (hewing the pr£^ viledges of the righteous, and the miferable ftate of the wicked* fetting the one againit the other, in oppofition thrice; In the fir-terrf. It is a good means to keep our hearts in the fear of G , to confider the gain of godlineffej and the dammage and danger of wickednes, as here they are fet in oppofition. i.Such as have their eye upon God and his word, for righteoufneffe and life^ may be fureof the watchful eye of God on them, for their direction in their way, their confolation in their grief, and deliverance out of trouble,* for, The ryes oft \ e Lo. d are upon the righteous, $. As the righteous lend their ea<estoGods word, to his promifes and precepts : (p the Lord lendeth his eare to their fupplications And defires, Bis earn art open to their cry. 4. On the other hand, as the wicked, who feare not God, fet their face to do e/il, and to tranfgrefle Gods commands fo God (hall fet his face againft them, to be avenged upon them, The face of thd Lord is again ft-them that do evil. $ , The only happinefle which the wicked man feeketh, istohaverihes, honour and pleafure in the earthy and -to have his own name in eilimation among men thereafter, and thefe things alfo, befide the loffe of heaven (hall be taken front him, and his temporal life withal; for the face of the Lord /> againfl them jto cut of 3 the remembrance ftom the earth*

Verie 17. The righteous cry, and the Lord bear-ith, and deliver eth them out of all their troubles.

■184 The Lord is nigh am 0 them that are of a broken heart : andfaveth fuchds be of a contrite fpirit*

19, CMariy are the afflictions of the righuotu : but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

20, He keepeth all hU bones ; not one of them is broken. ' "ft

21. Evil fbaU fay the wicked, and they that hate th# right eow {hall be defolate*

Another

PSAL. XXXIV. «*

Vcrfe 17. The righteous crie , and the LOBX> beareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.

15. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of d broken heart: and faveih [uch at be of a contrite fpirit.

19. Many are the afjlittions of the righteous % hut the Lord deliver eth him out of them all. . 20. He keepeth all his bones : not one of them is broken.

21. Evil [hallJlaj the wicked-, and they that hate the righteous, fldll be defolate.

Another oppofition , of the good appointed for the godly* and the evill appointed for the wicked. Wherein learn, i. The Lord putteth the godly to trouble > and by trouble putteh them tOthtVr prayers 3 and delayes anfwer till the need be great; and then they do cry to the Lord, and then he giveth evidence of his hearing 3 and iendeth deliverance; for, The righteous cry, and. the Lord bear eth y and deliver eth them out of aU their trouble?.

2. It is as true, as it may feem ftrange , that the Lord will prefs his owne fo long with trouble till he break their heart i and fcill their natural courage and confidence 5 fcr here are the godly defcribed to be men of a broken hearty and contrite [fir iu

3. Though the Lord fo break the naturall confidence of his own 3 and fo empty them (by trouble) of all conceit of their owne worth , wifdome or abilitie to deliver themfelves out of trouble, that they may relic on God only; yet will he not withdraw himfelf from them , nor faffer them to perim in difcou-ragement. The Lord is near to' them that are of a broken heart, and faveih juch as be of a contrite fvirit. 4. Though the righteous* be the onely men in the world whom God iov^th beft 5 yet will he not only not exempt them from trouble , but alio will exet> cife them with multitudes: and varieties' of troubles from his own hand immediately , from Satans temptations > from the malice of the wicked of the world, &c. Many are the troubles of the righteous ; for thus will the Lord conforme the redeemed to their head 3 try, and traine them up in faith, and patient fub-miffion to Gods will;. teach them to pray and wait on> and give proof ofthefincerity of the grace siven to ;hem. 5. The god-

%tS PSAL. XXXIV.

]y are as oft delivered, as they are troubled 5 either by removing of the trouble, or by giving ftrength and patience to bear it, or comfort under it t and certainc hope of outgate from it j or by ending all troubles to them at once. His troubles are many $ but the Lord ddiveretb bim out of them all. 6. The Lord moderated, weigheth, and meafureth all the troubles of his own, what they (hall fufter in their life and death , and ieavcth it not to the will of the inftruments cf their trouble. He feepetb all his bones; not one of'them is broken. This was true of Chrift our Lord, of whom many things were prefigured , and prophefied in the Pialmes; and in this amongft the reft, which meweth : That I in the Pfalmes as the matter will fufter; Chrift is much to be eyed, •and more then David y of whom at fir ft , the fame ieemeth to fpeak chiefly. 7. As to the oppofite ftate of the wicked 5 We lexrnCy That the wickedneffe of the wicked, is both the meritorious caufe, and the means alfo of the wicked mans deftru&ions For evil fliall flay the wicked, 8. It is the marke of a wicked man, to hate the righteous, for his righteeufneife; and fo is it kc down here. 9. He that hateth the righteous , or the image of God in his neighbour, fhall be guilty of all the confequences of the enmity, andbedeftitute of comfort when he hath moft need, He that hateth the righteous, Jhall be defolate.

Vcrfe 22. The Lord rtdeemeth the foul of hk

fervants; and none of them that trufi in him fbatl be de-folate.

The third opposition between the righteous and the wicked , is in relation to what is faid in the former verfc. Whence learn, x. The wicked fhall perifh in their finne, and for their finne; But the righteous fhall not perifh in their finnes, nor for them » for, Evil fkall flay the wicked 5 but the Lord fhall redeem the fouls oj bis jervants 3 to wit, out of finne and miferie. 2. As the wicked are fervants of fin, and ferve an ill Mafter , and get an ill reward; fo the godly are fervants of righteoufnefle , and have God for their Mafter , and fhall have delivery and falvation for their reward , as the comparison here fet down fheweth. g; As the wicked who are deftitute of faithin God, when they fall in trouble, wantconfolation : So all the righteous, who are no ether then fincere Beleevers in God 3 {hall have good company and confolation in all their trouble, and never be left alone : for, The haters ofthe righteous fhall be defolate } htt none of them that trufi in GodfhM be defglm* V S A U

PSAL. XXXV; 'fcf

PSAL. XXXv.

This Pfalme is a rcprefentation t)f Chrifts hotted concert with his adverfaries, wherein they are about to do their worft againft him, and his

\ Kingdome; and he denounceth the hotteft wratK of God againft thera , for their everlafting overthrow , fet forth under the fliadow of 'Davids conteft with hisirreconcileableenemies. Wherein he prayeth God to arifefor him, verf, i, 2, 3. and take order with his defpiteful enemies, vprfiq j 5, 6, 7, 8. which as it may comfort the fupplicant, folhallit ferve alfo for Gods glory, verf 9, o. And a maine reafon of which petkiori, is the unjuft and ingrate dealing of his enemies with him, verf. n, 12,15,14,15,16. Whereupon he

I reneweth his petition the fecond time , verf. 17, 18,1 9. Preffing his former reafan from the enemies unjuft and info lent difpofition , verf. 20,2 u and then reneweth his petition the third time for himfelf againft his enemies, verf 22^ 23,24, 25; 26. and for all the favours of his caufe, verf 27,28.

I Verf. i.T)!><fc/my caufe (OLORD) Vcitk them JL that fir he with the\ fight againftthem thai I fight againft me.

2. Take bold ofJbield and buckler , and ft and up for my help.

3. Dr4vp ctttatfo the fyear , and (lop the way againft them that perfecvte me ; fay vnto thy fotilj I am thy falvation,

Q-a Frora

J2&* PSAL. XXXV.

FRom his petition for himfebj Learne, i. Such as take part with God againft his enemies, the Lord will take part with them againft their enemies: If any plead againft the Beleever by verbail calumnies, and flanders, the Lord will be their party. If any will oppofe the godly with violence , the Lord will oppofe them : For this prayer of one of the godly , is as good as a pro-mife to all, Plead my caufc, 0 Lord., with them that ftrive with me: fight againft them , that fight againft me* 2. There is defence abundance to be found in God^ againft whatfoever the ene- . mie can do 5 a fliield and buckler in Gods hand, when he plea-feth to ftand up and help. 3. The Lord can terrific the enemy, ib that he dare not affault the man whom God pleafeth to defend, and hold him off with long weapons, giving the enemie fome 0-ther thing to do , then purfue his people : He can draw out the fpear , and flop the way againft them that perfecute the godly. 4. He can quiet the hearts of his own in the midftof perfecution, and make them fearleffe, inperfwading them of their falvatiort everlaftingatleaft, and this may fully fatisfie, if the Lord fay tint 0 their fou'.e , I am thy falvatiom

Verfe 4. Let them be confounded andput to fhame y that feek^ after my foul : let them be turned bacJ^' and brought to confu[ionjhat devife my hurt.

$♦ Let them be as chaffe beforetheveindex and let the tstngel of the L ord chafe them.

6* Let their Way be dark^andflipper) y and let the Angel of the Lord perfecute them.

7. For without caufe have they hid for me their net in a pit , -which without caufe they have digged for my foul.

8. Let deflruBion come upon him at unawares , and 11 hU net which he hath hid y catch himfelf: into that very defirutlion let him fall.

Vrom his petition againft his enemies; Learn, 1. Shameful! difappointment fhall they findeat length who intend todeftroy the godly 5 Let them he confounded and put to flame, that jeefc after my foul. 2. Though the enemies of Chrift 3nd the godly, advance in the profecution of their hurtfull dcyifes, yec fhall

they

they be forced to retire with flume. They fall be turned bxc\, and , brought to confufion^ho devije their hurt. $. As the enemy hath purfued, fo ftull Gods wrath puriue him 3 and chafe him , and drive him to perdition, T,.ey Jhj.ll he M the chafe before the windc. 4. Albeit there were no earthly man to purfue Chrifts enemies 5 yet avenging angels, or evil fpirits fhall be let forth upon them and their families, to trouble them, Let the Angel of the Lord chafe them. ?. The Lord fhall put them to fuch ftraits, as they fhall not know what hand to turne to, what way to take , and in the way which they take, they ftiall fall, Let their way be dar\ and Jlippery. 6 9 When they are fallen in a mifchief, the hand of the Lord fhall be ftretcbed out againft them ftill 5 Let the Angel of the Lord purfue them. 7. Though the godly by behaving themfelves innocently, cannot efchew theper-lecution of the wicked ; yet innocent behaviour is a greac eafe to the confeience of the godly, a matter of encouragement to them I in their addreffes to God , and a great aggredging of the ditty ' of the enemy, as here twice, he faith ;> Without caufe they hid their net. 8. Though the enemies of the godly do plot Tecret devices againft them, yet not lb fecret, but God can give warning of it, and make it an errand for the godly, to pray to him, to difappoint the plot as is here imported i They have hid for m$ their netinapiu 9. The wicked know not how to be lure of I their prey, when they hunt for the life of the godly, They pre-j pare the net , and jet it 5 they bide it , and they hide it in a. j pit. 10. When the enemies of Gods people do leaft exfpect harme, then fhall a mifchicf furprife them 5 TJeftruciion jhall come upon them unawares. 11. The very courfe which the enemy taketji againft Gods Kirk and people , fhall be the neareft courfe to deftroy themfelves: Let bis 7iet that he bath bid, catch himfelf; Into that very deftruflion let him fall.

Verfe 9. *And my foul fall be joyful in the LORT); it fall re Joyce in his falvation.

10. All my bones fall fay, LORT>^ who \sli\eunto thee y which deliverejl the poor from him that u too ftrongfor him jea , the poor and the needy from him that fpoitetb him ?

He bringsareafonoffcis prayer from-the comfort which he fliould have, and the glory which God fhould have, by the

Qj meane$.

*3o PSAL. XXXV.

meanes. Whence leirn^ i. It is a good reafon to ftrengthen our hope to be heard , when our comfort and Gods glory may both be promoted 5 by the granting ofourdefire, as here we finde JRi 2. The-deftructionofthe enemies of the Kirk , is not a. matter of rejoycing in mens deftru&ion; but ofrejoycinginthc Lord , and in his wife manner of delivering of his people : cSWy foul floaU be joyful in the Lord ^ it full rejoyceinbis fdvation* 3. In the eftimatton of the godly, the tongue is too little to mag«-njfie the Lord for his mercies ; for their defire is, that all the powers of the foul,and that all the parts of the body ,even the bones which are !eaft fenfible in their own kind, might praife him 5 All piy bones fball fay, &c. 4. The Lord hath wayes wonderful!, others and moe then ever man conceived, whereby he can deliver his own in their loweft condition from their oppreffors, when they are in the height of their power and pride. Lord who is lil\c unto thee? -which deliver eft the poor from him tb&t h too ftrongfor hiwy &c. 5. Though before deliverance come, Faith has caufe to fay all that fenfe can fay of Gods praiies, after deliverance is come $ yet when fenfible experience of a hoped delivery is come , there is a more hearty and a more cheaiful manner of cxprefling of the Lords praifes, then-can be before it come, as the promife of the Prophet, to fay, to and fo, as is in the Text, after the delivery is come, doth import 6 j It is 3 fort of (as it were) ingaging of God to deliver; when the heart of the Beleever ingagethit (elf to glorifie God after the deliverie , for here the Prophet make:h ufeofthis, promifing praife towards this end.

Verfc 11, Falfe witness did rife up : they UiA to tny charge things that I kneW not.

13. They rewarded me evil for good : to the {foiling of my foul.

13. 'But as for me 9 when they ^oere fick , my cU-thing was fackfloth» 1 humbled my foul Vrithfafl- , i n g y *#£ ^7 prayer returned into mine owne bo* fome.

14. I behaved my felf as though he had been my frknd. or brother ; 1boweddown heavily , as one that ^mrmhfoxhis mother.

15. Bat in mine adverfity they rejoyced, and gathered themfelves together ; yea, the abjetts gathered them [elves together againft me^ and I knew it not ; they did tear me, and ceafed not.

16. fVith hypocritical mockers in feafts: they gmfh-ed upon me with their teeth.

He amplifieth that reafon of his petition , taken from his enemies caMige, by laying before God their falfhood and in gtati-tucfo Whence learn, 1. The godly are fubjeft , not only to be backbitten , and traduced privily, andflandered more openly* but alfo to be charged unjuftly before Judges , and purfued criminally for their life without a caufe, and to have falie witneiTe laid againft them, that th.qy may be condemned under colour of Laws this was found inefteft by David, and Chriil rcpr.efented by him. Falfe witneffes did rife up > They Ixii to my charge things that l\ncw not. 2. No bonds of nature or humanity will binde up the wicked from perfecting the godly , even to death , how well foever the godly have deferved of them, they re-rewarded me evil for good , to the depriving me cf my life. 3. True love is beft known , as by rejoycing at anothers well-fare , fo by grieving for his grief, IVhcn they were fic\> my clothing was fadi-clorb. 4. Hearty prayer alio for any man, is a token of unfeigned love to a man, (penally when prayer and falling are joyned together for them, I hum -bled mj foul by faftin*. 5 When the expreffions of grief, by words or teaies in prayer for any, waken up the affection, yet more to pray ardently for them 5 It is yet a farther token of unfeigned love of them for whom we pray. My prayer (Taith he) returned into my hofome 1 which is as much as my expreffions in prayer, in fighes^ affectionate words and tpres, aftccled. my heart, Lament. 3.49* 51- with new motions of earned dealing forthem.^ 6. True Chriftians affe&ion to their enemies, is able to affect the foul, as much to the feeklng their welfare > and commiferating their mifcrie, as the naturall affection of anatu-rall man can affed him toward friends and kinsfolk, inneareil natural relations unto him ; for David faith , I behaved my felf as though he had been my friend or brother ; I bowed down heavily, 0f one that mourmtbfor bk mother.

<9U Verfis.

% $% PSAL. XXXV.

Vcrf. 15, "But in my adverjity they rejoyced^ and gathered themfelves together ; yea, the abjeBs g*r thered them/elves together againft mc^and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceafed not.

16. With hypocritical mockers in feafis •' they gnajh* fd upon me with their teeth.

From the evil meeting which he received of his enemiesjLftirtf, U Many of thofe that pretend great friendship to the godly intimeof pfofperity,may not only turn their ^ack upon them, intimeofadverfity, but alfo turn to be their open enemies, and re-joyce in their calamity; But in my adverfity, faith he, they re-joy ced. 2. The troubles of the godly do draw the wicked into a more neer union amongft themfelves, as it were congratulating one another in their (infill courfes^atid ftrengthening one another, They gather themfeIves together. 3. Bafe rafcals who have nothing to commend them, fave meerly their hatred of Gods people, and of their piety, will get refpeft amongft the enemies of Chrift, and of his people, for that very reafon, becaufe they hate the godly, and will be admitted in the fellowfriipof ring-leading enemies; leu the abjefts gathered themfelv.es together a* gainfl me. 4. In the meeting of the wicked among thcmfclves, Chrift and his followers have their name torne and rent in pieces continually, with calumnies and flanders, which poffibly come not to their ears," half of thcmiThey gathered together,and I \newit not : they did tear me in pieces , and ceafeinot. 5. Sad taunts and fcoftisof pretended holy men, jearing at true p'ety 3 is no lmal part bftheperficutionof Chrift, and of his followers; for here amongft the reft are hypocritical mockers. 6. When the wicked without fear do fill and ftufte their Ixlly in their feafting in the time of the Kirks trouble: Their fco&s and their jefts 3 yea and their bloody expreflions of cruelty againft the godly, are the moft relifiling fauce of their banquets": U^ith hypocritical moc\ers in theirfeaftsjhey nafl) upon me with their teeth.

Verf* 17. Lord, howlongVoilt thou looken? re/cue my foul from their deftrutiion* my dulling from the Lions.

1 tf. 7 will give thee thanks in the great Congregation} I W/l praije 1 bee among much people.

I pi Let not them that are mine enemies Wrongfully rejoyceover me: neither let them Wink ftiththeeye % that hate me without a caufc.

20. For they Jpeal^ not peace : hut they devifc deceitful matters againft thtm that are quiet in the land

21. Tea> thej opened their mouth wide agninft me % and fati, Aha y aha y our eje hathfeen it,

He repeateth his petition for delivery from his enemies the fe-» condtime, and preffeth the fame reafon taken from the infolent and cruel difpofition of the enemy. Whence texrn^ 1. The time of trouble and perfecution of the godly may continue much longer then the godly did expect, in which cafe as they mufl waite on patiently, till the Lord put to his hand to relieve his fcirk, and punifh their enemies; fo they may eafe their hear: 3 in laying their earneit longing to be delive>:ed,before the Lord,and fay, Lord,bow long wilt thou look on-? 2. As it is lawful to lament the Lords feeming long delay to help us, fo we muft not complain too foon; for before David uttcreth this, bow long, he is long in trouble, and in danger of his life, by unrcafomble ana beaitly w/d men, and is altogether deftitute of all means of reliefs hispraycr teftifieth, Hffcue my foul from their definitions-,* my darling from the Lions. 3. The godly by faith in the deepeft danger, may fee their delivery, in their iadeft and darkeft forrow, yea may behold the light of confolation coming 5 in their banim-mem, may behold their liberty," and fee their fellowship with the Saints > and in the midft of complaints, may promife to themfelvcs reafons of praife, and the payment of their vowes made to God, as here we fee in the midit of this fad conditio^ the Prophet faith, I will give thee things in the great congrcgzti* on: 1 will praife thee amo7tgmuch people. 4. It augmenteth the grief of the godly, to fee the wicked take advantage of their trouble, and mockers of Religion to re Joyce over their fufterings in a good caufejand they may heartily deprecate this evil, that it may not at leaft, laft long J Let not thofe tlut are my enemies rejoyce over me. %. The lefs caufe of provocation of pur enemies be given to them by us, thejgreater is the hope of delivery, and the readier (hall be our help from God, and the

lefs caufe (hall be to the enemy to wink with the eve^s witty well-

pleafcd

pleafcd feoSers do, when they get their will ; Ndtkct let them wink with the eye, faith htytbat hxtc me without a caufe. 6. Albeit godly mens quiet carriage in the land, where they live, will not five them from the hoftile fpceches, and rnaHcious plottings of their adverfaries againft them, yet mail their quiet behaviour fpeaktoGod for them, and againft their enemies, and make a fpeedy mifchief come upon them from the Lord ; for to this pur-pofe he faith, They [peaky not peace y but they devife deceitful matters againft them that are quiet in the land. 7. The enemies of the Kirk are a bale generation, taking pleafure and fport in the miferies of the godly, who do not injure them, yea are a vain and tflfolent generation, triumphing over the weaknefs of the innocent, when they arc in low condition, and in the cafe of fuffering, which common humanity, and ordinary generofity doth abhor, Tlrey opened their mouth wide againft me, andfaid, Aba, ah% our eyebitbfeeiiit.

Verf. 22. This thou hasifeen:(0 LORD) \eep notfilence: O Lord, be not far from me.

23* Stir up thy ft If and <m>ak$ t0 m Jjudgement, $ven unto my caufe % my God y and my Lord,

24. Judge me, 0 y LORD nty k God, according to thy righteoufneffe ,. and let them not rejoyce over ttoe.

2$, Let them not fay in their hearts, «•*£, fo Would We have it: let them not fay^ We have [wallowed him uf.

26. Let them be afhamedand brought to confujton together, t hat rtJoyce at my h'ttrt : let them be clothed with Jhame anddijhonour, that magnifU themfelvcs a~ gainft rne.

He reneweth his petition for himfelf and againft his enemies the third time. Whence learn, r. Such as feed their eyes upon the miferies of others, and fpecially on the miferies of the godly, the Lord mall not wink at their wickednefs, but make it appear, that he hath marked their cruelty, that he may punifti k exemplar^ for after the enemies crying out, our eyes have feen, the

Pro?

Prophet addeth, This thou bafi fccn,0 Lord, be notf!'cut. 2. The hardeft condition that can befall a believer, is a tolerable cafe and condition > if God draw neer to his foul though for all the remedy that 'David craveth, till the outgate come, is this, 0 Lord,be not far f, Cm me. 3. Though the Lord for a time fuflfcr his own to lie under foot oppreffed, yet for his juftice fake, and for his covenants fake, hewilljuftly determine the controverfie, and clear his own fervants, He will fiir up bimfelf to do judgement, and decide their caufe. 4. In the decifion of the controv eilie between the ?odly & their enemies,the caufe of the godly (hall get no wing 3 but be declared to be righteous,& the enemies mail have no matter to rejoyce in. HejhaU judge the godly according to their rigbteoufuefs, and {ball notfuffer the wicked to rejoyce over them, f .When the enemies of the Kirk have laid their laft reckoning of the iflue of their bloody courfe againft the godly, they mail fee the matter to go otherwayes then they would or exfpe&ed on both hands. They fhall not have caufe to fay,^ would we have it,ot wc h^-je [wallow-ed them up. They are too too pretious a moriel for them to devour. 6. Shame and confufion, di(honour and difgracc on all hands mail be upon one, and upon all ChriuVenemies, who feek the detriment of his caufe, and to have gain- tothemfelves, \>y oppofing of him, and his caufe in his peoples hand ; for this prayer againft them fhali. ftillfpeak effectually, Let them be ajha-med and brought to confufion together , and let them be cloathedwith JhAme and dijhouour, &c.

Vcrf. 27. Let them/bout for joy , and be glad that favour my righteous caufe ; yea, let them fay continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath plea* [tire in the profperity of his fervants.

28. And my tongue jhall [peak of thy righteoufnefs, and ofthypraife all the day long.

AsDavid pr3yeth for himfelf, fo he praycth for all the favourers of his righteous caufe, as the type ot Chrift, whofe fpirit fpakeby him,for the edification of the Kiik in all times coming. Whence learn, 1. It is one mark ofgoulinefs amongft many other, to befriend the caufe of Chrift, and to further it in.theperfon of his Saints fuffering for righteoulnefs, with their beft affections, for k here they are defcribed by being the favourers of the rightcov* caufe. 2. In the pcrfecution of the gndly for the caufe ot Gods truth and true Religion, all the godly aic concerned, and as they

p art ake

partake of the fufferings with others under Chrift the head, Co ihall they partake of the joy of the victory, and outgate which fhall be exceeding joyful at laft; Let them fhoutfor joy and be glad, (faith the type of Chrift ) that do favour my righteous caufe* 3. The troubles of the godly are not fo many, but room is left for fometimes profperity; for Cjod loveth the profperity of his fervants, to wit, as it may conduce to his purpofe, and their good« 4.When any of the godly are delivered from their perfecutors, all the reft of the godly arc bound as they underftand of it, to fet forth the power of God, and his love and bounty manifefted and forth coming to his people:Let them fay, Let the Lord be magnified, who bath pleajure in the profperity of his (ervint. ?. Whatfoever opposition the enemies of Chrift,and of the godly fhall make,Chrift fliall Weep up the open profeffion of true Doctrine, which mani-fefteththerighteoufnefsof God> leading men to eternal life, and bringing glory to God; for this is the undertaking of the type, and of Chrift reprefented by him,after the hotteft conteft between •him and the wicked-enemies, 9Ay tongue fhall \pea\ ofthy rights cufitefs, and of thy praife all the day long.

PSAL. XXXVI.

To the chief titufician. A Pfalme of David, thefervantqf the L 0 2J,P.

This Pfalme hath three parts. In the firft Vavidkts down the perverfnefs of the wicked in their finful courfe and devices againft the godly and himfelf, sw. 1,2,3,4. Int he fecond, he comforts himfelf, and doth fettle his faith on the praifes and properties of God, ver. $ ,6^ 7,8, 9. In the third he prayeth in the behalf of Gods children, and for himfelf, to be delivered ftom the wicked wr t io 9 11,12.

FRom the infeription , Learn, That to be a fervant of the Lord is an honour, and a priviledge above all earthly priviledges; and by giviug a Tweet teftimony to the confciencCj,

it doth feafon every condition of life, more then any earthly advantage can do.

Vcrfe I. HP He tranfgrejfion of the wicked faith X within mj heart ,that there is no fear of God before his eyes.

2. For he flattereth himfelf in his own eyes> until hii iniquity be found to be hateful.

3. The words ofhu mouth are iniquity and deceit 1 he hath left of to be Wife, and to do good.

4. He devifeth mifchief upon his bed, he fetteth himfelf in away that is not good : he abhorreth not evil.

FRom his obfervation of the carriage of th« wicked> Le&rn> 1. Albeit all the world cannot be difcerned to be gracelefs and unconverted, yet the lewd life of fome may fpeak their being in the ftate of corrupt nature unconverted, to the confeienceof a difcerningman, For the tranfgrejfion of the wicked faith in my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes. 2. It is not the imperfection or fhort coming in the fear of God, but the be -ing detiitute of it altogether, that proveth a wicked man,, There is no fear of God before his eyes. 3. A s a man that feareth God is watchful over his own wayes,and cenforicus of himfelf > fo the man that feareth not God is fecure and well pleafed with his own doings, He flattereth himfelf in his own eyes'. 4« As the man that feareth God laboureth to informe his conscience well, that he may not commit iniquity} To the man that feareth not God, doth gull and deceive his own confeience, till he have gotten the iniquity accomplished, and it be now made open in its own colours, He flattereth himfelf in his own eyes, till his iniquity worthy to be hated be found, or his iniquity be found te be hateful. 5. As the man that feareth God will difcern the fin in himfelf, whereot he is in danger, before any man perceive it > fo the man that feareth not God, will not fee his own fin; no not when any that looks upon his way may fee it. He flattereth him-felf in his own eyes, till bit iniquity be found to be hated. 6.h% the man that feareth God makes conscience of his fpeeches, and will be loath to coyer fin with Yain pretences and excuses,

but

t$8 PSAL. XXXVI.

but rather will confefs it. So the man that feareth not God , will notftand, what pretence he ufeth , for doing of iniquity, nor what excufe he maketh for the iniquity, when -it is done, for deceiving both others and himfelh The words of bis mouth are in* iqiiity and deceit, 7. * As the man that feareth God, by all means ftriveth that he may grow wifer and holier, fo the man that fears not God, will mifregard, ^and caft ofYthe means of wifdome and holinefs, He hath left off to he wife, and to do good £ whatfoever he teemed to have before, he goeth back even from that more and more. 8. As the man that feareth God, communeth with his •heart upon his bed, that he may not fin, no not in his heart: So the man that feareth not God, devifeth how he may plot and perform fin willingly, He devifeth mifchief on his bed. 9. As the man that feareth God doth abhor that which is evil, and la-boureth to be fure that the way he is upon is good : fo the man that feareth not God, taketh no farther notice of what he doth , then what is moil for his purpofe, and neither abhorreth what he would be at, becaufe it is evil, nor aftecteth it, becaufe it is goodi but having digefted his purpofe, by meditation and refolution, he goeth on obitinately, He fetteth bimfelf in a way that U not good 5 he abhorreth not evil, and fuch weve Davids enemies, and fuch will be the enemies of Chrift and his people.

Verf. J. Thy mercy (0 LO R <D) is in the Heavens , and thy faithfuluefj rcacheth unto the clouds.

6. Thy righteoufnefs is like the great mountaines i thy judgements are a great deep; O LORD, thou pre* fervefl man and beafl.

7. HoVp excellent is thy loving t^ndnefs H O God t therefore the children of men put their trufi under the fbadow of thy Wings.

8. They /hall be abundantly {at u fie d with ihefatnefs of thy houfe : and thou {halt make them drink of the river efthypleafures.

9. For with thee is the fountain of life : in thy light fhallwe feelight\

Tk fecond part of the Pfalm, wherein 7)m& comforteth him-

felf

Sell in God, and fetleth his frith en the praife^worthy properties of God. Whence learn, i. The turning of the believers eye of the wickedness of their adverfarics,and looking to Gods goodnefs, and wiledifpenfation, will comfort'his heart againft all that the enemy can do> and fet him on woi k toward godlinefs , fo much the more as he pcreeiveth atheifme in them j for when David had painted out his enemy, he falleth to the praifing of God, faying, Thy mercy,0 Lord js in the Heavens. l. Albeit the carriage ci the wicked toward God, and the godly,doth tend to obfeure Gods glory, in the point of juftice toward the one, and point of mercy toward the ether J yet the works of creation, and the conftant government thercofjfhall bear witnefs of the conftancy of Gods mercy and fait f'nine />, and rigbtcoufnefs , and judgement , as here is flicwen. 3. Though the effects of Gcds mercy mould not appear to the believer on earth yet flith will fee them in their fountain andcaufe, Thy mercy 0 Lord (faith the believer) is in heaven. 4. Let Gods works and his word be compared together,arui the truth of his promifes and threatnings, mail be fo traced, and feem to be true, as fhall facisfie us, and let us fee fo far till one eye can follow no farther, Thy faitlifulnefs rcacheth unto the clouds. 5. Whatfoever carnal reafon may judge of Gods difpenfations towards the godly, and the wicked :" yet his holinefi and juftice is firme and unchangeable, Thy rightcoujnefs is iil{e the great mountains. 6. Albeit we cannot fee thorow matters, nor reconcile crofs cogitations, fometimes offered from the grounds of faith on the one hand, and from the effects of providence offered by fenfe on the other hand, yet mull we remember that God is wilcrthenwe, and his deep draughts are part finding out by us, Thy judgements are a great deep. 7. This one confederation of Gods coiu'ic of kindnefs to his own creatures, making his Sun to % (hine, and his raineto (all on his enemies, as on his friends,may quiet our mind, concerning Gods (paring for a time the wicked, and liberal dealing wirh them, 0 L ord 3 tbou preferveft man and, baft* There is a courfe of commune prciervation, and kindnefs running toward all. 3 Over and above common kindnefs, there is a more i mi re, fpecial, and precious love and kindnefs toward believers in God, which is inexpreffible and wanteth compari-fon, How excellent or precious is thy loving hjndnefs^O God I (aich J)avid> fpeaking of this. 9. The belief of Gods readinefs to let forth this love, may.and fhould, and doth animate men todratf necr unto him, albeit they have as yet no experience of the fruitcs of it, Therefore the children of men that put trufl under the lh-

dew

dow of thy wings. 10. The Lord without exception of any,ti> whom he fendeth the Gofpel, and without exception of any^within the vifible Khk, doth offer to be reconciled through Chrift Jefus,to every man who (hall flie into the propitiatory and mercy-feat erected in Jefus Chrift, who is God incarnate according as he was holden forth in the figure of the golden Ark of the Covenant, and ftretched forth wings of the Cherubims, as is here faid_, Therefore the children of men put their trujl under the Jha-dow of thy wings. 11. Such as do not give the lie to God, whefi they find not at firft, what they hoped for, but do indeed believe in his word, and wait on till he make his word good to them $ fuch as do not tempt or take effay of God, as if they would fee what believing may do, and then do quit their gripes if their expectation be not anfwered, but do indeed truft God upon his word, and do refolve to die with the grip in their hand , of his freely offered Covenant of grace inChrift,&of his promifesmade to them that flie to him for refuge, fhall be lure to be in more re-fpe& with God, then common fubje&s, They fhall be Dome-flicks of his houfc, of the houfhold of faith, to whom God fhall keep a table furnifhed for fpiritual lift unto them, he fhall make them now and then, when it is meet time for the hungry to feed abundantly and to be latisfied, Tbcy that put their trufl undct tht jljadow of thy wings, fhall be abundantly (awfieUtwitb the fatnefs of thy houfc. 12. In the ufe of the means and hcly ordinances of God given to his Kirk, God fhall make the man, that indeed giveth him credite upon the word of his grace, fenfibiy feel the joy of the holy Spirit, to be unfpeakable and full of glory, and that there are greater contentments to be found for a mans foul, in God reconciled through Chrift, then the world can yeeld befide, *fer Thou Jhalt make them drinfi of the rivers of thy pleafures. 1$. Whatfocver can be found in the creature, even when God blcffeth the ufe thereof to h's own children, is but a drop from the Ocean , is but a little water out of the well, in compari loir of what a believer will fee and feel to be in God reconciled through Chrift, For with thee is the fountaine of life. 14. No light fave the light of Gods revealed word in holy Scriptures for the mirrour,no light but the light of GodsSpirit illuminating the foul looking upon the mirrour, can make a man underftandj or believe or fenfibiy difcern the wifdome, comfort, and felicity, which is held forth to his Kirk in his ordinances, and felt in. himfelf by experience, In thy light (faith he) fhall we fee light.

FcrfiiQ

PSAL. XXXVI. *4*

Vcrf. io. O continue thy loving kindnefs unto them that knoifr thee, and thy right eoufnefs to the upright in heart.

11. Let not the foot of pride come againfl rfie.anh let not the handofthe wickedremove me.

I 2. There are the wrktrs (tfirnqnitj fain : they are caji down^ andjhall not be able to rife.

Thelaft pari of the Kalme,wherein he prayeth for all believers himfelf being included,and then for himfelf in particular, Whence learn, j. The true mark of a godly man ftandeth in the conjunction of faith in God with finccre ftudy of obedience to him, for. He is the man that fyiowetb God D and is upright in heart. 2. Albeit what the believer hath found m God by experience, hs may exfped it fhallbe continued unto hirri. both for his entertainment by God, and defence and deliverance in hislwghteous caufc from his enemies; yet muft he follow his confidence with prayer,0 continue thy loving kjndnefs unto them that k]\orc tlge, and thyrigb-teoujvefs to the upright in heart. $. A; we have no right to any benefit,but in To far as we are of the number of up;i^ht hearted believers, fo fhould we feek every benefit we would have,as being of this number, and as feeking that others may 6e fharers with us, as tbavid doth here : It is the Lord only who can divert proud per-fecuters, that they hurt not his children , and it is the Lord onely who can keep h's children in the courfe of faith and obedience, when the wicked employ their power again them. The:efore doth 7)avid pray, Let not the foot of pride come againft vie, and let not the hand of there idled; remove me. 5. The mine ofthe enemies of the godly is as certain as if it were already paft, yea faith may'look upon it through the profpeft of the word of God, as if it were to be feenand pointed out toothers to behold with their eyes,T/;cre are the Workers of iniquity fain. 6.The fall of the wicked is not like the fall of the goldly, for though the godly fall fundry times, yet they recover their feet again, but a fall is prepared for the wicked, after which they (hail not recover themfelves, They are cdji down^ and (hall not be able to fife. 1

ft PSAL,

*4* PSAL. XXXVII.

PSAL. XXXVII.

This Pfalme tcndeth to guard the 'godly againft: the ordinary tenration unto envey, emulation, fret-ting^and difcouragement in the way of godlinefs, arifing from the temporal prosperity of the wicked, and that by eight directions or counfels from the Lord, each of them confirmed by rea-fons : mod: of which are comparifons of the blefled eftare of the godly at the worft , with the eftate of the wicked at their beft. The firft direction or counfel, ver. t, 2, thefecond, ver.%, the third, ver. 4, the fourth, ver. 5,6 > the fifth, ver.j y the fixtb, ver. 8, 9,10,1 2,12, to ver. 26. the feventh, ver. 27, to ver. 33. The eight direction, ^<?r. 34, to the end.

Verfe l.T^ Ret not thy [elf becmfe of evil doers^ nei-sT ther be ihon envivus againft the worker* of iniquity.

2. For they fhallfoon bee tit doVvn like thegrafs s and rehber as the green herb.

THe firft direction is to beware of fretting at, or envying of theprofperity of the wicked, becaufe their profperity is but temporal. Whence lexrn, j • Wicked men may be in a more prof-perenjs condition in the world, then the godly, and oftentimes, yea and for the moft part are; for this is prefuppofed here as an ordinary tentation in all ages and places. 2. Albeit carnal rea-fonand fuggeftions of Satan and corrupt nature, do from the profperity of the wicked, and the ordinary troubles of the godly, iurnifh tcntations unto the godly, to be male-contents with Gods difpenfation, yet mould the godly take heed that they be not o« vercome by> or yeild in any fort to this tentation, Fm not thy

PSAL. XXXVIt tyj

felfbecnife of evil doers. $. As tentation to male-comenrmeflC maketh aflaults on the one hand., to reader the godly Weary of welldoing, fo tentation to emulation of the wickeds ccurfe^and fo low* ing of their way, nffaulteth on the other hand, but fhould noway get place, Neither be thou envious againft the workers of iniquity. 4. If it were well confidered that alt the profperity of the wicked is but in things concerning the outward mrfns back and belly, and that this profperity is but temporal, and oft-times of fliorter con-tinaance then a mans own brittle life, there mould be no ground of envy found therein; for, Tbcjjhtlljbon be cut down W&grift><Lni wither life t he gucn herb*

Verf. 3. Trtift in the LORZ), and do good , fo ft>tit thoii dwell in the land^ and verily thoti fhMt fo fed.

Rom thefecond point of Gods counfel aricf direction; L-C4>», ft* Holding faft the Covenant of Grace made with God, through Ckrift, arid ftudying to bring out the fruits of faith, in obedience to Gods command, isafovercign remedy againft male-contentment with a mans own condition, and againft envying of the wicked, Trujl in the Lord, and do good. 2. Continuance in the fkith, and obedience of Go J, whatfoe/er tentation we meet with, is the fureil way to have Gods blefling in this lifc,and to have hea~ ven, (reprefented by Canaan) after this life; Trujl in thi Lord, and do goody fo foalt thou dwell in the lad, 3. The upright believer in God is the only man that ge:s the right ufeof the creature, and in whofe cap the true juice of Gods benefits being prefled out, is poured, whofe bread is dipped in oil, and id whom fpiritual life is constantly entertained, Verily thcu, that is> r fuch aman,]J^/f be fed.

Verf. 4. "Delight thy felf dlfoin the tORT), and toe [hall give thee the defirts of thine heart.

From the third direction to ward off the tentaticm 5 Ledrii, ri The.godly man hath warrant to make God the objed of his delight, who being reconciled to the believer through the media-* tour, is become the believers own in whom he may continually re-Joyces but the ob]c& of the ungodly pofpcrousofcan$d<ligkt/isbu» R i fob*

fomecreature or temporal trifle; for to the believer it is faid,Pr* light xhyfelfhtbe Lord. 2. Though the believer be rich in his rights, yet he is flaw to make alt thereof and hath need to be *ftr:red up to takepofleffion, Delight thyfclf. 5. if the believer (hall make ufe of his Covenant -ri?.hr, andinteieft in God , and fet his affe&iors upon him, he fhall rinde fivch folid contentment and fcris faction in God, as he fhall not envy the condition of the moft profperous wicked mm in the worl.:* for it is laid., Delight tbyfdfiutfoLcrd, and he wil give tbee the defire of thy heart. And certairdy the fo '.getting or not hearkening to this direction., isthe caufe of our being male-contented with our lot > and of eur envying of the wicked ,

Verf. 5. Commit thy VPay unto th LO R'D : trufi a/jo in him, and he fbz.it btvng i t / 0 pafs .

6. And hejhall brijig forth thy righteoufnefs as the tighiy and thy judgement as the noon-day.

F;om the fourth direftronjLeyr#,T.When we bear the burden of our own affairs our felves>& are chaft ifed with anxiety and want of f needs, and with envying the ungodly who profper better then we do, the beft remedy is tirft to do our duty* as we are inabled in the ufc of themcans 5 then enft the care ot the fuccefs over on God as the plow- man dcth when he hath harrowed his laftd, and let the barden of it reft on God, and let.us not take it oft him again,but fit our'mmd to reft, refolvedtotakc the hai'veft in good partj as lit lhall fend it; Commit thy way unto the Lord y trufi alfo.inhim. a, The man who followerh this direel:ion,(hall come to fpcei beft in his ai&iresj becaufe God lhall do that,wherewith the man fliall have reafon to be fatisficd* tor that which lie would have done, or what is better, fliall be efLcled, Commit thy c&uje unto the Lord.and befiullbringil to pals 3 It is poflible that the godly following tbiscounfei, may be mhtcportea of, ani both lole his labour and cftimatibn ?mong men 3 yet it fliall not be long Ig> for, Godjhll bnng forth thy rightcoufnefs as the light. 4. Albeit the gody and his caufe may be obfeured by a flioite: or longer winter-night of trouble 3 as fhall pleafc God to appoint, yet fliall he and his caufe and integrity be found abiolved by God indue time, L.efidU bring forth thy fu'gement or decree of abfolution as the nooi>day,

Verr,

Vcrf. 7. Reft in the LOR T>, ami wait paticnt'ty for him ; fret not thy fell becattfe of him who prcf~ ; peretb in his rray> because of the mm who bringet" wicked devices 10 pafs.

From the fifth dirc&ionj Lcirn, 1. The vi&ory over this ten-tation to envy the wicked, is not gotten at firft, nor by carnal reafon, bur by laith in God, and patient waiting on him, 3{c(i I 011 the Lord 3 ani waite patiently for him. i. As the tentition un:o fretting is very prcfling, when we fee the wicked get fo much or, their will, fo much of their purpole brought to pais : fo we have need to be preifed again an J again to refill this temationj Therefore is it faid again, Fret not thy fclf becaufc of him rvbo profpcrcib jn bis- voxy 3 or becauji of tlw-rzan thut briuzeth wicl^i devices t opaffe.

Vcrf. 8, Ceaftfrom anger, and for fake Wrath; fret not thy felf in any nife to do evi\

The fixth direction is to curb this testation, in cafe it hatha!** ready defiled and fired a mans fpirit, left it break cut, and make the believer put forth his hand to iniquity. Wh ncelexrn, t. The infolency of the Wicked is luch, and their provocation of the godly oft- tirntfs fo great,tlm their (pints are much itirrcd and kindled with indignation, and thoughts of private revenge, yet mull not this paiTion prevaile with the godly, but ihould be itriven againit; Cen[c from ingcr, and forfafa rprtitji vengeance is the Lords, he will repay. 2. The godly ihould efchew the motions of fretting, anger, envy againft the wicked^ and if anger enter, he muitceafe from it* if it urge it felf on him with pretences of reafon or violent impulfion, he muft for [die it, but by any means he muft keep this tentacion wichin doors, that it drive him noL to break forth to a compleated fin in aclion and doing of wrong, Fret nst iky fclf inaiiymfctodoevil, •

Vcrfe 9. For evil doers (hall be cut of: butthofe that wait upon the LORD s thej fJ;all inherit the earth.

The Prophet preffeth this cu*e<ftion by fundry reafons; and in

ft S i^cciaj

fpecial by fix comparifons of the Lords way and purpofe about the wicked and fhe godly, Jiow profperousfoever the wicked may J>e for a time, and howfoevcr the godly may be affiicled and exer-"cifed for a time. The firft comparjfon is in this vcrfe. Whence learn, i. If any who pretend to be godly, ihall by the foreiaid ten-tation fodake the way of godlinels, and follow the way of the wicked, they (halWiavc the reward of the wicked for the changing of their way, For evildoers fhall he cut off. 2. It is not the fcrefent condition whereinto men are j which is to be looked unto 5 tut what 0--all become of them at lengths for alt the prosperity of the wicked is Waited with this one lentehce of ihefupream Judge, 'Evildoers fall be cut off. $. Albeit the godly be kept in fome hardmipsforatime as young heirs in their minority; yet (hall their inheritance in heaven (1 eprefented by the land oi Canaan) be rcferved unto them; and in the meantime by their heirrtiip in Chrift , they have folid right to what portion in this world God cloth allow them,they have the ufe thereof with a good confeience, and remaine on the earth as long as God hath fervice for them, however the wicked vyould thru ft them out of the world as un-ivorthy of it,and if they be baniflied out of onecountrey,they know the earth is the Lords and the fninefs of it> and they live more contentedly in that condition, then the wicked do live in their neft j foi^ They that wait on the Lord fhall inherit the earth.

Yerf.ro. For yet a li'tle while,and the wicked/hall not be: yea than fbalt diligently confider his place, and it %hz\\npt be.

IT. But the meek fkall inherit the earth, andjkall delight themfclves in the abundance of peace.

From the fecond comparifon of the wicked and the godlyslaznj, I4 We mull not pafs fentence fuddently, to abfolve their way who are profpe/ous, or to condemne their way who are eroded* but we ihouldwait upon Gods word, till God from heaven manifeft hisjudgement about both,which (hall net hngbe delayed in regard of the wicked v ; for, let a little while>&nd the mc^cd fhall not %c y yea thou fait diligently confider his place, and it fall not be. ±\ Submiffion unto Gods difpenfation alayethall troubles, and enlargeth the good of every benefit; and a good conftrudion of Gods dealing with us, bringeth much peace and quictnefs of minde with it, and enricheth our portion, The meclifall inherit the Urtp 2 anifall delieht themfclves in the abundance of petce.

Vcrfe

Vcrfc 12. The \X>icked plot tetb again ft th ;«j?, and gnajbeth upon him with his teeth.

13. The Lord JhaR laugh at him; for he fietb that bis day is coming.

14. The Wicked have drdftn out the faord, and have bent their botyc y to caft downe the poor and needy ,and to flay fttch as be of upright converfation.

15. Their frvord/ha// enter into their oftnheart , and their bowes Jball be broken.

The third comparifon of the wicked and godly loofeth a doubt, when the godly cannot get liveiihod in their mean condition, ia prefence of the wicked,but their life is alio in peril by their plotting, for effectuating the deftru&ion of the godly. Whence learn, 1. The godly have to do, not only to wreftie agaiiift the thriving condition of the wicked, but a! fo with their deadly ha* tred: The wicked plot againft the righteous, anignjfietb upon him with bis teeth. 2. The godly muft make the Lord to be part* to the wicked, and muft oppofe his juftice , power and wifdometo the enmity of the wicked $ for albeit the godly be forced to mourneat their thrcatning , yet their plotting and pratling a* gainft the godly , as if they could do anything ofthemfelves, is ridiculous, The i ordjkill high at them. $. If the godly did confidertof the wicked, as the word of the Lord fpeaketh of them; they might look upon their bodts, as on theb;ags of a man upon the fctftbld; ready to be executed: For, Gfid fceth hU day is coming. 4. The godly muft relolve to bear the open violence ai fo cf the wicked . and to be made as butts for their arrowes, and flieathes for their iwords , which if more then their words: For, The wielded have drawn out their [word , and bent their bowo* ?. Before deliverance come unto the godly, they fhall rinre them-felvcs in a weak condition , for any thing they can do for them-fclves; for here they are poor and needy \ and the wicked thinks to cajt them down. 6 , Thofe are the truly godly, and the otve&s of the wickeds malice; who for their inward condition depend on God in the fenfe of their poverty and needineffe , and wrh 11 are oi an upright convcr{men ^ as they are here deferijxp f 9 7. When the wicked are moft neet to do a mifchief to the Lords people, then is a mifchief moft nca; unto them; Their fmri Jhali enter into their mn heart , and t/)eir bowe fhall b$ proven. R 4 y C rf. ($

?45 rZ>l\L,. AAAVU.

Vcrfc 1(5- A little that a righteous manhnth, is better then the riches of many tvkt^ed.

17. For thearmet of the wickgAfhall be broken : but the Lord upholdeth the righteoiu.

The fourth comparifonofthe godly and wicked, loofcth another doubt about the wealth and power of the wicked. Whence learn, 1. The oddes between mens livings and meanes of lively-hood ftands not in more or leTie abundance of worldly goods, but in Gods bleffing , which becaufc it accompanieth the provision of the godly 3 have they lelTe or have they more 5 therefore A 'little that one righteommm hath, is better then thericbes pfnuiny wicked. 2. The little fomething of thegodlies provifi-bn is made to fubfift for the poor mans ftanding , white the power and wealth of the wicked cometh to nothing; For the armes of the wicked JhaU be broken : but the Lord upboldetb the righteous*

Verfe 18, The LORD faorveth the dayes of the Upright; and their inheritance (hall be for ever.

19. 7 bey.fhall not be afh amed in the evill time ; and in the dayes of famine they Jhallbe fat is fed.

20. But the wickedJhall fer'tfh 3 avd the enemies of the £0*7} (hall be as the fat of Lambs : they fhall con~ fume intofmoake, the) fhall confum? away.

Prom the fifth comparifon of the godly and wicked; Lcmi> J. The godly have two advantages above the wicked, one in this life 3 another in the life to come. For the fir ft; all the viciffitudes of danges and daily neceffities of the godly are taken notice of in a fpeciall way by God, choofing and weyling to them cxtr-cifes for *\k\: condition, moderating thsm in their meafure and time, feafoning them with mixture of confolation, turning them to their Left 5 furnifhing all necefiaries to bear out then* excrcifes, and fencing pirticular deliverances one after another 1 'For the Lord lyiowes the dayes of the upright. As for the next life, he hath referved for them an inheritance of conftant bleflcdnefle. never to be taken from them; Their inheritance jhall be for ever. Albeit the Lord will not exempt the godly frorn-.(baring in

common

common calamities with the wicked, yet fhail they have the evidences of Gods favour to them in the time of trouble, and fhall notbediiappointedofthekindneflepromifed by God, and expected by them: They fall not be afamed in the evil time, 1. YVhatfoevcr fcant or inlack be of creature-comfort, the godly fliall be fupplied to their rcafonable (atisfa&ion : In the dayes 0) r famine they [hull be fat is fed. 4 V When the wicked aremoft liberally dealt with, it is but a feeding of them like beafts to the flaugfiter , all their glory fhall vaniih , and they themfelves (hall be deftroyed in Gods wrath: But the wicked fall perifo , the e-nemiesoftbeLord fall be is the fa ofLamis , they fall con fume intofmoake, they fall conjume amy.

Vcrfc 21. The wicked borrow*th , and pa)eth not again : but the righteous Jberveth wercy , and giveth*

%1 % Bftt fuck as be blejfed of him , Jhall in* her it the earthy and they that be cttrfedojhim , Jhall be cutoff,

From the fixth comparifon. Learn , i. In the mid eft of ths wicked mans wealth , he is oft times wanting, as if he were a poor man ; if he have much wealth, he hath much to do with it, and many times is unable to defray his charges without borrowing 5 and when he has borrowed, he is either unable or unwilling to pay again , and fo is but a mifcrable wretch with all he hath, or he is a profufe prodigall and deceiver of his creditors: The wicked torroweth , and payeth not again. 2. On the contrary, the righteous man by his godly behaviour, manageth the little which God giveth him fo well, as he needeth not to borrow 5 he wanteth not for any good work which God calleth him unto, and is able to fupplie others neceflities : The righteous jhervetb ncrcy, and giveth. 3. Thebleffingo" God on the godly, mr.keth the oddes betwixt them and the wicked 3 for it is to him ?sgood as the inheritance of the whole earth s but Gods cuue rooteth the wicked man out of the.earth ; for Such (faith he) a* be blejfed of him y fall inherit the earth) and they that be cur Jed, JIM he cut off.

Verfe 23. The fieps of a good wan are, ordered by

the

the Lord : and he delightcth in his Way.

24. Though befall, hejhall not be utterly caft down*, for the tORfD upholdeth him with his hand.

25. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not feen the righteous forfa^en^ nor hi* feed begging bread.

26. He id ever mercifully and lendeth ; and his feed id bletfed.

He clofcth the confirmation of thefixth direction with enumerating fundry priviledges of the godly, of fome whereof, he • made ebfervation in his own time. Whence learn, 1. The priviledges of the godly are fo gre.it , as mould content him, albeit his outward profperity and wealth be not fuch as he conceiveth the wicked to haves for God teacheththe godly how to behave him-ielf in his particular actions, prudently and holily : Tbefteps of a good man are ordered of the Lord , he approveth the courfe the godly man keepeth; He delights in bis way. Though the godly man through infirmity fall into a finne , or by his fin draw on a calamity on himfelfj yet the Lord recovereth him again J Though be fally be JhaU not be utterly caft down; and that he perifh not when he falleth , the Lord mall preferve him by holding a grip cfhim; The Lord upboldetb him with bis baud. 2. Albeit the Lord will not exempt the godly from poverty, nor yet their feedj albeit we prefuppofe the children be godly alio, if he think it good to exercifethem fo; yet the Lord hath made the examples of fuel) miferie fo rare, as a man of good yeares could obferve few or none of them beggers; fpecially in the Prophets time, when God by external benefits, was training his people to the hope of fpiri-tuall things, as P/rwrfhereteftificth. $. It is a gift of God to ufe whatfoever a man receiveth of God , fo as others be helped thereby; The godly is ever mecifull and lendeth. 4. The readir eft way to bring a bleflWto a mans houfeandpoftentig, 15 to be godly himfelfj for, The godly mans feed is blcfled.

Verfe 27. "Depart from eviU and do good% and dwelt for etermorc.

a8. For the Lordlovtth judgement and forfaketh

99f

pot his Saints , they are preferred for evsr : but the feed of the wicked Jhall be cm of.

29. The righteous Jhall inherit the land % and dwell therein forever.

From the feventh dire&ion, and the reafons thereof teaching how to guard againft fretting at, and envying of the profperity of the wickedj Learn, 1. To meet an injury with another injury, or to recompence evil for evil , or to forbear to do good where it is not deferved , is not the way to be blefled : h ut by the contrary the way of pofiefling fetled felicity, is to dvpxrt from evil, a d to do good , fo jhall amtn dwell fr ever, i. The love that the Lord beareth to righteoufhefie , is the caufe why it cannot but be well with the righteous: For, The Lord loveth judgement. 3. The Lord may well exercile his children with trouble, yet he will no&with-drawhimfeh from them in trouble, but will iiay with them , and beaie them company , and iavc them to the uttermoft ; Heforfzlietb %m his Saints , they arc prefer :cd for ever. 4. As wickedneiic is the ready way to root out a man and his family from ofTthe earth j fo isri^hteoufneffe the way to e-ftablifha mans family , and to bring himfelf to a foli.i habits tion with God for ever ; For, The feed of tbc wicked Jhall be cut of, The righteowfoa'l inherit the Lmdyand dwell therein for ever, that is,in Heaven fignified by that land.

Verf. 30. The mouth of the righteowfpeahjeth wif-dwe^ and his tongue talketh of judgement.

3 1. The La\V of his God i$ in his heart ; none of hU ftepsfia/IJlide.

Becaufe fo much is fpoken of the righteous man , he defcribeth him by three properties; one in his words , another in his affections, a third in his J.eliberare actions, and courfc of his waves and life. Whdice learn, 1. The righteous man ftudicth in his fpeeches to glorifie God, and edific thofe he fpeakcth to , and in allthingshe istruths friend ; The mouth of t'e righteous fp:aficth Wifdomc , and bis tongue tiHictb <.f judgement. 2. For his affections , he loveth that which is commanded of God > and hateth that which is forbidden of him , becaufc God hath taken him in Covenant with hirnfelf to be his man ; The Lxw of God U in hfs

tejrti

heart* i . For his courfe of life 9 what; ©ever tentation he doth meet with, to divert him from the faith and obedience of God , he will not choofe another way, then the Law of his God $ None of bkfieps flailflide.

Verfe 32, The wicked watcheth the righteous • and feeheth to flay him.

33. The LORD will not Is Ave him in his hand , nor condemne him when he ii judged*

For clearing ofthefeventh direction, he anfwereth an objection from the perfecution which the righteous are iubjeft unto from the wicked. Whence lcame> 1. Temporal! bleflings or benefits are not fo promifed to the godly , as that they (hall be free from troubles, croiles and perfecutions . .For the Lord for his .own glory, for education of his Kirk , and for convidion of his enemies, and for perfecting his children in holinefle , ufeth to iufter the wicked to hunt and perfecute them, even to death j The wic\ed w&tcbctb the righteous , and feeketb to flay him. 2. The wicked may apprehend the righteous mans perfon , lay falfeac-. cufations to his charge, and bring him before Judges , and not get his will of him, to drive him from a righteous caufe : For, The Lord will not leave biminhU hand. $. Albeit the righteous man by perfecutions may be judged, and condemned to death un-juftly, yet may "he be more then a conquerour through God that loveih him, and careth for him; For God will not condemne him when he is judged. And that may iuffice him againit whatioever flefli can do to him.

VerC 34. Wait on the LORD> and keep his Way>anJ he (ball exalt thee to inherit the land y when the Wicked are cm off, thou fbaltfee it.

35. I have fee'n the wicked in great power. and fpreading him felf like a green bay-tree.

36. Tet hepaffedaway 9 and lo^hewMnot ; yea, I fought him% but he could not be found,

The eighth direction , is to wait on God 3 and to keep his way 5. ferving with the former direction, to guard the gedly mans

heart

heart againft all tentations of fretting, envy, anger and emulation, becaufeof the wicked mans feemingmore proiperous condition in the world then his own , and this direction is confirmed with fivereafons. Whence learn, i. Hethatbelieveth on God muft: not make hafte, nor judge rafhly of matters as they feem for the prefent, but muft attend till God make his word good ; Wait on the Lord. z. True patient hope and waiting on God, muft be joyncd with the ftudie of obedience to Gods directions ; Wait on the Lord, and l{ccp bis way. 3. Though the godly be kept under for a while and humbled , yet God (hall lift them up to a fatisfa-ctory cft.ue: He full exalt thee to inherit the land. This promife is the fr. ft reafon to move us to wait on the Lord. 4. In evciy age fome of the wicked /hall be made fpectacles of Gods threatened judgement, before the eyes of the godly, to give aflu-rance of his judgement; that he fliall ovetthrow all the reft in due time, and avenge on them all the wrongs done by them unto the godly : iVbtn the wicked are cm off, thoU fbail fee it. And this is the fecond argument to confirme the exhortation, ?. How the wicked have feemed very glorious in the world for a while, and mortly both they and their glory did vani/h , every man in his own time mould make their owne remarkes and obfer-vations > as the Prophet fheweth here , that he had his obferva-tions in his time, vcrf. 35, 3 6. And this is the third reafon to confirme the direction taken from experience concerning the wicked.

Verfe 37. CMar\ the pcrfefi man, and heboid the upright ; for the end of 'that mm is peace.

3b. lint the tranfgreffours Jhxll he deflroyed together? the end of the wicked (hall be cut off.

The fourth reafon of the direction, is from the happy clofe of the courfe of the godly 3 and the certain perdition of the ^wicked. Whence learn, 1. The Lord gives to many remarkable inftances of the comfortable departure of the godly out of this life, as may giveaffurance of the dying of all the upright in Gods favour. Marble the upright man , for the end of that man is peace. 1. Whether men be witneifes or not of the departure of the wicked , one andallofthemdiein a defperate condition > they arc deprived of heaven and earth , and perifh foul and body at the expiring of their breath: Tranfgrc[fours frail be deftroyed together; thc%ni tf the wiclydftaU be cut off.

*54 i>SAL. XXXVIII.

Verf« 39. But the fahation of the righteous \t cf the LORD; he is their firength in the time of trouble.

40. And the LORD (hM help then*, and deliver them ; he {hull deliver them from the wicked , and fave them becaufe they trttfl in him.

The laft rcafon to move men to wait oil God, is from his care of the godlie. Wbtnu learn, ^ . How hard foever the conditio!* Of the godly be > the Lord hath wayesof his own to prcferve and fave them; yea the Lord is refolvcd, and hath paficd his word that he will fave them : The (dvition of the righteous > is of the Lord 4 2. So locrg as GoA is pleafed to let righteous mens trouble continue, he will now and then comfort them, and will enable them to bear their trouble, when comfort isfufpended: He is their firength in time of trouble. 3. When the godly in their trouble feel their own wants and weakneffe, he will furnifh what in them is lacking > till the delivery come ; The Lord Jball bclptbcm* and deliver them. 4. Albeit manv be the trouble* of the godly , especially from their wicked perfecutorsj yet by faith in God they/hall keep their confcience clean : Their caufe they maintaine whole, and (hall have their fouls fafe, do what their perfecutors can; He fall deliver themfromthe r*icfed> and five them becaufe they trufl in him.

PSAL. XXXVIII.

ATtfdmc of David, to bring in remembrance.

In this Pfalme David in trouble.-both of foul arid body, as an example- of the hardeft exercifes that Chrifts followers can fall intoj Firft, prayeth for the mitigation of his trouble, and femovall of wrath 5 verf. 1. And fecondly, fayeth out this fenfe of the trouble which he felt immediately from God , verf4 t, 3,4, 5, 6,

7,8, Thirdly, having put up his confufed de-fircs to God , for prayers in the fenfe of his inability to expreffe himfelf, verf. 9, io* He layes out his fenfe of the grief and troubles which he felt from men, and endured with great patience, <verf. if, 12,13,14. Fourthly, be fets down the wreftling he had in prayer to God , becaufe of his perfecution by nis adverfaries , vtrf. i<$, 16,17, 18,19, 20. And clofeth thePfalme, not having gotten comfort for the time, verf 21,22.

F Rom the Inscription i Learn, that excrcifes of confciencc, the more heavie they have been , the more fhould they be remembered , and the paffages thereof more carefully marked j when the fenfe thereof is moftfrefh , left they pafle without the fruic which may be had of them after deliverie : for thus much are we taught by the Inscription of this Pfalme , wherein it is intituled : a Pfalme o/David to bringto remembrance.

Vcrf. 1 ,f~\ LORD, rebuke me not in thy wrath: ne't-\Jt thcr c haft en me in thy hot di(p leaf fire.

FRom hispnvyer for mitigation Gf trouble and removall of wraths Learn, 1. It is confiftent with Gods Fatherly love, and our Sonfhip, to tafte of I^therly wrath a^ainft oar firtnes, as this place proveth. 2; Albeit it is not lawful! for us to follow our natural defires in prayer, or to fcek to be free of chiftiferEent > yec may we feek mitigation of trouble , and tempering of our cup. lb a-s we may digeft it, and we may pray for the removall of Father-lv wrath alfo^ ; Rebuke me not in thy wrafb, vor cbaftcn me in tbj hot dijpleafnrc.

Verf. 2. For thine arrows (tickj*aft in me; and thbx hand pre ffttb me fore.

3. There is no foundneffe in mypfh, becaufe of thine anger : neither is there any reft in mj bones % becaufe ofmyftn, 4, For

4. For mine iniquities are gone over mine head ; ai an heavie burden^ they are too heaviefor Me.

5. My wounds ft intend are corrupt , becaUfe of my foolifhneffe.

6. I am troubled^ 1 dm bowed down greatly: T go mourning all the day long.

7. Tor my loins are filled with a loathfome dijeafei and there is nofoundneffe in myfiefb.

8. I am feeble and jore brokenj I have roamed by teafon ofthedifquietneffe ofmj heart*

He giveth the reafon of his prayer from his pittiful cafe both in foul and body. Whence learn, 1. When it pleafeth the Lord to make his children fenfible t *of their finnes, and of his dreadfull juftice; he can make the tokens of his difpleafure againfl finne piercing fharp , and prcfling heavie ; Thy arrowes fticfi f ft in rne, and thy handprejfeth me fore. 2. Although the Lord mould fet usas a marke to ihoot at, and lay the heavieft load of judgements onus for our finnes > yet we muft not feek the cafe thereof, nor can we have eafe from them, fave by coming to God him-felf, to bemoan our miferie, as this example teacheth us. 3. As the fenfe of trouble on our body, or any way elfe will waken the conference of finne; fo the confeience )of finne , and feeling of wrath due for our fin, will make no fmall alteration on our very^ fcodiej: There u no foundncjfe in myflefh, becaufe ef thine anger, nor reft in my bones becaufe of my finne. 4. One finne will waken the metnorie of moe finnes, till theyprefent themfclvesas an innumerable armie; My iniquities are gone over my head. 5. How light foever finne may feem when it is committed, it will be found infupportably heavie, when God pur hies for it: -As an heavy bur* den , they are too heavie forme. 6. When the Lord doth finite the confeience for finne, the rod will not fail to make a wound, which fhall have need of the cure of the Phyfician, according to the bruife made by his hand, or deep piercing of his arrowes $ for after arrowes and prefling hand he mentions wounds more then one. 7. When a wounded fpirit is not timeoufly by a right cure bound up and healed 3 the wounds do grow the longer the worfe $ the longer the more guiltinefle, filthineflc and perplexity of fpirit doth grow: My wounds doftinfi and arc corrupt* 8. As skrough our iixonlideration of our dutie, and danger of finning

vvc

we fall actually in fu ne, and do draw upon our felvcs wrath: So by our inconfideration of the light lemedie, wc augment the meafure 01 both : My wounds ftin^ and are corrupt , becuujc of toy foolifineffc. 9. So long as the coi fcience or' finne and feme of wrath kept on thereby do laft, the mans wit ?nd his courage, and his countenance and his joy a re fmitten j bcth betore God and men ; I am troubled, I am bowed down greatly , J go mourning all the day lung. 10. To ad.de to the pace, and to make the fcnlc of finne more bitter: The Lord can lay his hand on the body, and make the loathfomnefle of the fickrieffe reiemble the loathfomnefle of the finne whichdrewiton , and to fpeak unto the conlcience in its'own language , the caufc why it is ferit unto bim ; For my loincs arc filed with a loathfome, difexfe 5 and there is no {ound.;cffe inmyflejh. 11. A wounded foirh will dam and beat down the ftcutcit heart it can meet with, J am feeble and fore broken, ifc. If the Lord purfqe a mans conference for finne,ar.d intimate his dilpleafureagainft him , and continue this cxercile for any time; it will pafie the mans power to hide or fmother his grief", or hold in the expreffions thereof; I have roared by reafon of the difquietneffe of my heart*

Vfrf. 9. Lord, all my define is before thee $ and my groaning :s not htdfrom thee.

10 My heart panteth, my ftrtngih faikth me ; M for the light* of mint eyes it alfo i* gone from , me.

In tc third place,that he may bring forth the trouble which he fuffercd irom men y and his patience towards them , he prefent-cth his heart to God , as it was full of confuted defires, inftead of explicite prayers, being now unable to cxprefie himfelfmore largely. JVbcnce learn, 1. As finne caufeth wrath, and wrath fore ftrokes and forrow; ib thefe evils looked upon , mould waken defires to have them removed , and fend us to feck the true reme-die thereof in God, as here doth the Pfalmift. 2. As defires ani groans, if they be prefented to God, have their owne fpeech, which we cannot cxpreue in time ofour confuffions s fo fhould we account of them,not as of vanifhing expreffions oi' nature, bvX as prayers itined up by God, and {landing before him till ttfey receive their anfwer $ Lord , all my defire is before tbzc $. 1 not wrcftling with trouble within ou; felves : n r venti grief as natural! men which cm give us cafe, but pc

,^ne heart before the Lord which muft doit: All my defire if hfore thee. 4. The ftrength of faith in the godly is not fo great, as to fwallow up all infirmities; but fo great as to wre file with them, and confefle them to God , who uleth to fupplie his own with his ftiength and wife directionywhen their own ftrength is evacuate, and the man is before God humbled: For here even Davids heart pantetb and his ftrength fxileth him y and the light of his eyes is gone from him 5 not fo much in regard of the bodies decay , as in his fpiritual condition , expreffed in bodily termes, and thus much lor the troubleSjwhich he felt immediately from Gods hand,

Verfe 11. My lovers andmy friends ft and aloofefrom my fore : and my Iqnfmen ft and afar off.

12. They alfo that feek after my life , lay fnares for me : and they that fcek^ my hurt , fteak mtfchievom things ? and imagine deceits all the day long.

13. *Bfit I, as a deaf man y heard not, ; and I was 04 adumbeman that openetk not his mouth.

14 Thus I was as a man that heareth not , and in yohofe mouth are noreproofes.

From the troubles which he felt from men 5 Learn, 1. A wounded fpirit is ad ifeafe which the naturall man hath no skill of, not will to meddle with 5 but flierh from it > as from a plague cr, pert; My lovers and my friends fiand aloof from my fore. 2.I11 time of fad affliction and narrow 'trial! of our faith , naturall bonds between lis and our kinsfolk , will {brink and faile us, fo as we iliall have little comfort in the earth > My bjnfmen ftani afar off. 3. In time offodexercifes and hard trials, as friends rrny faile : fo enemies may make head , and by craft and cruelty, by (landers and cunning poiicie, open enmity and fecretjplot-tin^ may confpire againft a mans fame,, goodcaufe and life, They «lfo ikatfr.e\ after my life, lay fnares for me y and they that fce\ my hurt , fpea\ mifchievom things , and imagine deceits all the day long. 4. The more emptied, afflicted, difconfolate,for-f ken of friends, purfued by foes a man be; if he go to God for reconciliation and relief, he hatL ground of hope to be helped, and to have God engaged to him fo much the more; for here David makcth this u(e of all his troubles, he layeth all out before God. 5. ItispoiTible, yeaand^ft-timCscomethtopaiTe/that:

the

the godly have fo many lies made of them, calumnies and flan*" ders devifed and vented againfl: them byfo many mou'thes, tha* they are not able to follow them , or to anfwer and refute them ; but are forced to misken them , and in patience hold themfelves quiet till Goi make matters clear for them; But I Of a deaf min beard, not , and as a ditmbe man opened not my mouth. 6.When the godly overloadcn with multitude ofcalumniesj and the multitude of enemies backing them, do fit down in patient filence, not feeing to what purpok they (peak: They are taken readily as guilty^or as fuch who cannot refute the thing which is alledged of them j or maintaine the truth which they profefle, and this is an addition unto all the reft of their trouble $ As David im«* porteth, faying: TbmwM I m a man that bear eih not 3 and in wbofe mouth are no reproofes.

Vcrfe I $. For in thee, 0 LORD, do I hope : thou Vtilt bear, 0 Lord my God.

16. Forlfaidy Hear me, left otherwlfe they fhould rejojeeovermei when my foot ftpfeth, they magnifie themfelves againfl me.

17. For I am ready to halt 9 and my farrow is conti* nnMy before me.

18. For 1 will declare mine iniquity^ I Vvillbeforry formjfin,

19. But mine enemies are lively , and they are flrong: and they that hate me Wrongfully 9 are multiplied.

20. They alfo that render evill for goody are mine adverfaries; becaufe I follow the thing thtit good i*>

In the fourth place he fetteth down his wreftling againfthi* perfecutors, feeking to deftroy both him and his righteous caufc* Hence learn, i. It isaforeand high degree ofthetriall of the godly, when at one time God purlueth for fin, and friends withdraw from them in the duties of humanicy, and psrfecutors are likely to deftroy their lives 5 and withal! do fupprefle Religionin their perfon by this means ; and yet this hath been the cafe of many of God? children, and may be alfo, as this example teach

us; yea, $lfo our Lord Jefus, his condition was like this* when he fuftered lor our finnes. 2.. Sore trialls cannot be borne without holding faft the gripe of the Covenant of Grace , for this fixeth faiths and ftrengthens hope , and furniiheth patience irf~grxateit troubles, $ for J)avid rendereth this reafon, for his bearing patiently his forefaid hard condition : In thee, 0 Lord, (io 1 hope 5 Thou wilt hear. 0 Lord my God. 3. If the Covenant be nolo en faft , whereby we may warrantably call God our God; >ve may be as it were , furety to our felf for a good anfwer from j3od$ Thou wilt hear me, 0 Lord my God. 4." When the enemies of the godly in their righteous c^ule , are ready to triumph over the godly and their caufe , and the godly are like to be dif-coura.ged , if the Lord help not; then the godly may be fure the Lord will hear and he'p: For !D*£ii giveth this for a reafon Qf his perfwa(ion,that God would hear him, verf. 1 5. becaufe the enemies orherwayes would triumph, and he be made to halt, and turne off the way, verf. 16,17. for in this the Lords glory is in-terefted. $. When she outward urofperous condition of the godly is changed 3 and their feet flip , and the hand of the Lord lieth on foi e without relaxation , even they of ftrong faith are readie to be difcouraged and faint j fo weak are we in faith when a hard triall cometh : For, IVitn the enemy magnified him-fclfdgainftDvndi Whenhu feet flipped, when hk forrow was continually before him ^ He confeifeth he was ready to halt; To >vak.:n the godly, tfyatthey might guard againft this tentation. 6. To keep our ielves from fretting under trouble , it is expedient t}iat we compare our {ins with Gods fatherly chaftifements of us j and that we take courfe rorrcmiflion of our (in 3 and turne the forrow railed by affliction into godly forrow for fin; for this J)avid refolved in his diftrefle, 1 will declare mine iniquitic , / will be jorrie for my fin. 7. The Lord fodifpofeth of the outward condition of t^e godly and the wicked in this life, that the godly oft-times have the mourning part, and the wicked the rejoycing part, and that fo much the more as they fee the head of the godly is borne done : I will be forry for my fin, but mine enemies are lively and firong. 8. As it is a matter of grief to fee the affliction of the godly growing , and the enemies growing in joy and ftrength and number; fo it is a matter of comfort, that the enemies of the godly ate enemies without a juft caufe given ' 1:0 them: They that hate me wrongfully) 4re multiplied. 9. We muft not leave ofTthe doing of what God requireth at our hands, albeit we fliquld have the hatred of the v\ r oild> fck Pavidfollewed

tbut

that which wm good, albeit his advcrfaries for that very caufe did render to him evil for pod.

Verf. 21. Forfakemenoty 0 Lord-, 0 my God, be not far from me*

22. Make hafle to help me , 0 Lordmj falvation 0

He clofeth the Pfalme with prayer, laying all his weight on the Covenant,not having gocten comfort for the time. VV)ience learn, i. We muft not limit the Lord td give us comfort and deliverance, when We think we have grcatcft need of it, but muft leave our prayer at his ieet, as the Prophet, doth. 2. The BeJcevec muft be fo w aric to lean unto fenfe , that he muft hold the grips of faith, not onely when he miileth fenfe of comfort, b:it alio when Gods dilpenfation toward him, and his fenfe thereof dotfi feem to fpeak moil contrary to faith * Forfafie me not, 6 Lord; be not far re from me: Mlakehaftc to help me , faith Davids faith, when his fenfe fpeaketh what his prayer here impOrteth, that is, p relent perdition. 3; The bond of the Covenant of Grace is able to bear the weight of the Beleeversmoft heavie burcien,anj by vertue of it, he may lay claim unto God, as his owne God,and lay claim alfo unto falvation in him; for notwithstanding of all the troubles and tentations laid forth in this PfaJme, the Be-leeverfuftaineth all on this ground; 0 myCfOd, 0 Lord my faU nation; And here is the vi&orie of Faith.

PSAL, XXXIXi

to the chief Mufician, even to Jeduthun. A Pfalm 0/David.

Another fuch like hard exercife as in the former Pfalme, wherein David acknowlegeth his infirmity in a paffionate exprefiion when he was in trouble, verf. 1,2,3,4. Secondly, he recovered and comforted himfelf, v*rf. 5^6,7. Thirdly, what was his prayer in this exercife, verf 8,^10,11,12, 13.

$3 Ver£

Vcrf. i.T Said> 1 Will tak* herd ton)] vrayes\ that I \ finne not with my tongue j I Will ke^p my mouth with a bridle 3 while the wicked is before me*

2. lwas dumbt^ith (ilence^ Iheld my peace , even from good^ anJt my forroW Vpm ftirred*

3. Mj heart was hot within me> ^hlle I was mufing^ the fire burned ; thenjj^* / With my tongue.

4. LOR'D, make me to knoto mine end^ and the mea(ure of m) dayes , what it is: that / may know hoVo frail I am,

THe Prophet for fear of impatient expreffion in his trouble* refolved to keep filence in the audience of the wicked 3 but was net able to keep in his paffionate wifhing for death. Whence learn, 1. As it is the Lords will that we fhould have the infirmities of the Saints regiftred unto us for our edification , as well as their vertures: So it is his will, that when the confeflion of our infirmity may profit others , we fhould not fpare to let it be known, as thispaffogetcachethus. 2. Conference of our weak-neffe, and of the unrulinefle of our tongues, ready to break forth Jnthetimcoftentation , fhould make us take better heed to our felves, and to watch over our fpeeches: J faid, 1 will tx\c heed to my wayes> that I finne not with my tongue. 3. Becaufe the wicked may take advantage ofthegodlies mifcarrying in time of their trouble, it is needfull to watch the more over our beha-* viour and words in their prefence ; I will keep my mouth with a bridle , while they are before me. 4* When we are sbout to keep in our corruptions, and amend our own faults by our own way of it, our wrfdome^our itrcngth, our refolutions, we do not efchew the evilwe would efchew 3 and we alfo fall in a fault we were not awar of $ as here inftead of praying to Gcd to dived one part of his fpeeety after another , that he might fptak prudently in the audience of the wicked , he did not fpesk a all, he did not fpeak that which he mi^ht- and fhould have !pcken : I wm dumbe with filence , I held my peace even from good. 5. When grief is not jightly vented buc fuppeiled. i, is no: 'hereby atfwaged but en-creafed rather i I veld my peace , and my forrcw wm ftirred. 6. The power of finftill nature, and imaged paffionsisfuch,

that

PSAL. XXXIX. -2.6$

that even when they are opppofed by reafon or ftrength of grace in us , they may eafily over-power us , except God put to his hand to help us in the conflict ; My hexrt wot hot within me: while I was mufing the fire burned : then [pafe I with my tongue. 7. It is a natural evil in man when he is overcome by trouble in this life to wi/h for death , looking to be in a better condition by the change; As the fick man looketh foreafeby ch mging of his ted, and here verf. 4. we have the example of it. 8 The fhortnefleofthis life is a mitigation of the troubles thereof unto the godly , and the fear that life mculd~coritinue longer then the fflicled man would , augmenteth the trouble; and this is the fountaine of thispaflionaue and curious wifh: Lord ma\e me to know mine end , and the mcafurc of my day es what it is : that I may \\ncw how frail I am.

Verfe <;. 'Behalf thou haft made my dayes as an hand-breadth j and mine age is as nothing before thee; verily everyman at his befl fiate is altogether vanity. Selah.

6. Surely every man Vvalktth in a vaine fhew\ fure-ly they are difejuieteh in vaine^ be heapeth up riches><W knoweth not whofhallgather them.

7. ts4nd noty, Lord , what -waiie lfor t my hope is in thee.

In the fecond place, not being anfwered in this curious question, but fecretly checked for his impatient wifh 3 he content^ fcimfelf with the known truth, That this prefent life is but {hort, how long foever it mail laft , and refolveth to wait on Gods time patiently. Whence learn, 1. For tempering our condition whatsoever it be , it fhould fuffice us to know , that whether we be in profperity or adverfitie, our time in this life is but fhort: Thou haft made my dayes at an hand-breadth^ and mine age U m nothing before thee. 2. Not in profperity, but in adverfitie, is the uncertainty, weaknefle, emptineffe, and vanity of profperity, and things temporall well fcen ; for in troubles fayes Vdvid^ Verily every man at his be ft ftate is altogether vanity* j. What-foever feemeth excellent in the eyes of naturall men in this world, is but the fliadow of what it feemeth j health, ftrdngth^profperity, riches, pleaXure ; honour, dominion, power, "authority are bat

S4 • *e

the fhadowes of things fo named r Every man walkctb in avaine fiew. 4. Too much care and anxiety about things of this life, is a fickneffe and folly, Surely they art difquictci in vain. 5. Experience puttethaceep flamp of the truth upon a mans minde 5 and caufes him to fet his fubfeription unto it without hefitation 3 Verily, funly, fur el) 3 is the feale of this truth here delivered after his experience. 6> The too much care which men take to gather richesj this toyling and travelling, this ip'cnding of bodie, of wit and time, this frowning on forne^ and fawning on others, this pleading and fighting with iome 3 and flattering of others, ■with the reft of other fhifts which men ufe to gather riches, ("which they muft leave behinde them ^ and do not know to whom,) is a point of great folly and vanity in men; He heaps up riches, and knoweth not whofhall gather them. 7. The rteht ufe of the perceived vanity of all things under the Sunne , is that V/e (hould be knt by that confederation unto G d to Veil on him ; Ani now, Lord, what wait rfor ? 8. That wjiich God hath pro-mifed in the life to come , is onely fatisfaclory and able to quies amansminde, and make him patiently wait on Gcd in all his trouble; What wait I for ? • my hope U in thee.

Verf. %.'Deliver me from all my tranfgrejfiow, make me not the reproach ofthefoolifh.

9. / Wat dumb e 1 I opened not my mouth; becaufe thou didfi it.

10. Remove thy firoke a^ay from me } I dm confuted by the blow of thine hand.

II. When thou wtth rebukes doefi correfi man for iniquity, thou make ft his beautie to confume aWay like a mothe : furely every man is vanity. Selah.

12. he are my prater , C> LORT) \ and give eare unto my cry : hold not thy peace at my tears: fori am** (IranaerXfitkthee , and a jojottmer y M All my fathers were.

13.O fpare merfhat 1 may recover Strength ; before J %o hence } and be no more.

In the third place, he prayeth to be freed from his finnes , and the fenfe of Gods wrath, uiing fundrie reafons to help jiis faith.

Whence

Whence learn> 1.Seeing fin doth plunge us in all perplexities, and bringeth trouble after trouble upon us; the belt cure of our trouble, is to feck pardon for our fins • 'Deliver me from all my tranjgrejfwns. z. The ungodly are focles, let them, feem to themtelves and ethers what they pleafe, for all their way and work ' is to make themfclves miferable; therefore doth the Scripture call them fookfh. 5. That the wicked get no advantage of us fo as by troubling of us to drive us from theprofeffionofrigh-teoufneffe , for which they do perfecute us, fliould be the maine care of every Beleever under perfecution : For this is Davids prayer, Make me not the reproach ofthe foolifi. 4. It isaifuall to us to fee our duty after we have finned,betterthen beforejfor^af-ter experience of his falling, he refolveth it is his duty not to fpeak an impatient word, but to be filent, and not open his mouth, to wit, impatiently. 5. The confederation of God for cur party, with whom we have to do in trouble, (hould humble us, and make us quiet; 7)avid faith , he fhould not have opened his mouth; "Bccaufe thou Lord did ft it. 6. Prayer for removing the tokens of Gods yifplecfurc , efpccially after prayer for remiflionoffins, is not contrary to patience and filent . fubmiflion under Gods hand $ for heprayeth alfc, %emove away thy ftroakfromme. 7. When we feci the Lords hand heavic upon us, we m?.y bemoane our feives to him with fubmiffion to his will, for he pitieth us> and will lay no more on us then we are able tobe.u-e , 1 am consumed by the blow of thy hand. 8. The ftcruteft and ftrongeft courage will foon be brought down by trouble of confeiehee , when Goi entereth in judgement with him, man falls down; When thou with rebukes do ft correct man for iniquitie , thou make ft his beauty to confume away like & mothez jurely every man is vanity. 9. When God feemeth to re-fufe to hear prayer, true faith will follow God with more fervent prayer, and crying, and teares, and not leave God without a good anfwer: Hear my prayer, 0 Lord 5 give car unt$ my cry, hold not thy peace at my teares. 10. The more our hearts be alienated from this world, andconveriant with God by faiths the more we mi fie cur countrey, our parents, our kinfmen on earth, and have our conveifation in hoven , the more we may be af-fured that God fliall avow himfelf to be our God : I am & ftrangcr and a fojoumcr with thee. 1 s. Entering our feives heirs unto the godly , who lived before us in their eftrangements from the world, and feeking after heaven , intitkth us unto their comforts alio J I am ajoioiwier as all my fathers. 12. It is an

ufuali

ufuall tentation unto the godly in their trouble , that they fliall never be relieved out of it in this life 3 Ofpare me before I go hence. 13. Thcgodly may pray for a little breathing before death with fabmiflion 3 that they may the moxe quietly render up their fpirits to God: Spare me> that I may recover fir ength before Igo hence and. be no more. 14. If the Lord do not hearken to us when we would, and as we would leave our petition befide him* till he anfwer it, as here the Prophet dotta

PSAL. XL,

to the chief iMufician, A ^ftlme of David.

'David as a type of CKrift in the whole Pfalme, and as an example of theexercifeof the godly, gtveth thanks for the experience of Gods delivering of him out of a notable trouble, verf. 1,2,5,4. In the fecond place, he is led on in his thankfgiving for the great work of Redemption by Chrift the Son of God coming into f he world , which is the fountaineof all other mercies to the Saints, verf. 5,6,7, 8. In the third place, "David in type, and Chrift in the accompliftiment, giving accompt of his propheticall office, intercedeth and prayeth for the evidence of Gods favour to himfelf personally and myfticayy considered, verf. 9, 10, 11 , 1 a, 13 4 and for difappointment of his enemies, verf. 14, 15. and for the comfort of all the godly beholding his exercife and his delivery, which he confidently doth cx-fpeft, verf. 16,17.

Yerf.

Vcrfe IT Waited patiently for the LORD, and he in-JL chnedunto me, andheardtny cry.

2. He brought me up alfo out of an horrible fit,out of the mtrj clay, and fct my feet upon a rock^ and eft a* blijbedmy goings.

3. ssind he hath put a neVv Song in my mouthy even fraife unto our God : many fhallfee it t andfear,and fhail truftintheLORD.

4. T/ejfed is the man that maketh the LORD his truft : andrefpefteth not the proud, nor fuch as turn a* fide to lies.

In his thankfgiving, Learn, 1 . As the Lord of let purpofc de-layeth to anfwer the prayer of his own, and fufpendeth to help them out of trouble for a time, that he may try and train their faith to a better meafure 5 fo the believer mull refolve to wait on patiently, 1 waited patiently for the Lord. 2. Albeit waiting for the time is joyned withlanguour and grief,yet the remembrance of it is fweet, and it wants not a blefling following it, I waited ^.ni be enclincd to me> and heard my cry. 5. The godly.may be brought in their trouble to as defperare like condition, as a man fain in a horrible deep and dark pit, finking in miry clay, out of which there is no appearance of relief, in which cafe as the great-nefsof the danger commendeth the faith of him that calleth upon God, and waitethfor him 5 So doth it commend Gods wif* dome, power, goodnefs, and faithfulnefs in delivering the patient waiter. To this end faith the Pfalmift, He brought me out of a horrible pit, and out of the miry day. 4. The man who de-

(>endeth on the Lord when he is delivered out of trouble, is net ef: to himfelf, but the Lords dfe attendcth him to guide him after his delivery; He brought me out of the miry clay, and fet n?y feet upon a rock, and cjlablijbcd my goings. 5. As it is a part of our duty to gloiifie God after every mercy, and in a fpecial manner when the mercy is very notable : So it is a new gift of God to enable a man to give thanks, and praife for the mercy received, therefore it is put for a point of thankfgiving, He hath put a new fong in my mouth. 6. As the experience of Gods mercy to ont: who is in Covenant with God, is the encouragement of all believer* : lb fliould it be the common matter of praife unto God from

them

them all, therefore doth he call the praifes which he did fing, the praifes of our God. 7* The right obfervation of Gods mercy, to his children, efpecially when he will mew him felt eminently, is able to ftrike a man with much awe and reverence of God who is fearful, even in his praifes; ZManyJhall hear and fern 8.' Then do we make right obfervation of Gods mercy to his children^ when thereby we encourage our felves to look for the like mercy, when we call for it in our need $ Many fb all bear and fear ■, and twft in the Lord. 9. As the precioufnefs of'faith is not feen in the time of trial ,fo well as after the victory; fo the fruit of it when it is feen is no lefs then true bleffednefs: Blejfed is the man who ma\eth the Lord bis tru\\.\ o. All true believers are humble towards God* and of a high fpirit againft whatfoever comech in competition with him, and will defpife every mans way who regardeth not him : So the mif believer is proud toward God and his truth, but a bafe fubjeft of his own fpirit, and to lying vanities; for the believer here is oppofed to the proud> and to fuch as turn afide to lies.

Verf. 5. CJWanyjO LORD my tioA, zxtthjv^on-tlerfultyorksiWhkh thou haft done, and thy thoughts^ which are to us-ward : they cannot be reckoned up in or-derunto thee: if/ would declare andfpeak^of themjhey are moe then can be numbred.

In the fecond place he is led up to the confideration of Gods wonderful care and providence about men, and in fpecial to the work of Redemption by Chrifts coming into the world. Whence learn, 1. One of the Lords wonderful works of providence well meditated upon, may and mould lead us jo the confideration of many other his works of that kind, Many, 0 Lord my Cjod, are thy wonderful workh™hicb thou haft donc.z.The works of Gods providence about us mould lead us up to the counfel of God, to behold his care of us, his minde and purpofe to us-ward, who are brought into Covenant with him, for confirming of our faith in him,Many, O Lord my God^are thy thoughts, which are to us-toard. % . Albeit the Lords deepthoughts and works of wonder about his own pec-pele , be unipcakable, unfearchable, and innumerable, yet muft we not ccafe to look upon them, and fpeak of them in heap, when we cannot attainc to them in tail, They cannot be'reckoned up in order to thec: If Ifbould declare and [peak of the mjbey are moe then can be numbred,

Verf.

Verf. 6. Sacrifice and offering thou didfi not dejtre, nine ears baft thou opened; burnt-offering and fin-offer-ng h/tfl thou not required.

7. Then faid \, Lq^ I come: in the volume of the hookjt\% written of me.

8. I delight to do thy will) 0 my God :jea, thy Law is within my heart.

He condefcends upon a particular which did overcome his declaration and fearching, to wit, the Qozenant of Redemption between the Father and the Son coming into the world, iome article^ whereof he toucheth 3 as they are re hear fed by the Son fpeaking here by his Spirit. Whcnee learn, 1 . The work of Redemption by Chrift, the Covenant betwixt the Father and the Son about our Redemption, the incarnation of the Son of God, andthecourfe of thefalvationof the redeemed, is one of the meft wonderful things that ever was heard tell of, when fo many wonderlul works pf God, fo many wonderful thoughts of God about us do concur, that they can neither be declared nor numbred, nor fet in order : for this work here touched is fet down for an inltancc, cf what was | faid in the former verfej now that this is fpoken by Chrift, the' iVpcftle 3 H^. 10. 5 3 6.&c. doth fhew unto us. 2. Albeit facri-. fices and oblations were appointed to be offered bercreChrift came, yet were they not acceptable in themfelves, but in refpeft of the Sacrifice of Chrift fignified by them$ not they, but Chiift figni-: fied by them could take away fin, Sacrifice and offerings thou dideji j not defire^burnt'Offerings and fin-offerings thou didejt not require, I to wit, for any worth in themfeives ; or by way o( real fat is fad ion 1 for fin. 3. The ceremonial law was not to remaine , but to be I taken away when Chrift came to offer himielf who was forefha-dowedby the facrifices and Levitical ordinances; for, Sscn: es and oblations thou didft not defirc y but mine ears thou kafto^. which prefuppofeth thou hafi formed a body unto me , asthe Apcn &\e 3 Heb. 10, £. doth fhew ; and fo the rejecting of the cere.iio-nies, is at the incarnation^ at the forming of the body of Chrift, and bringing the Son into the wotld. 4. The Son of God incarnate becomes voluntarily^ very capable,difcrcete, ready and obedient fcrvant to the Father for us: Mine ears haft thou opcned,to wit, for receiving of every command, cr mine cars haft thou boated, as the fervants ears were boared under the Law, when hechoofed to

ftay

ftayftill withhismafter in fervice, Exod. 2T. ?. $. By offering of burnt-offering God was not fatisiied for fln^but only by Chrifts coming and offering himfclfa facrifice once for all, Burnt offering and fin offering baft thou not required ; Then (rid I, Lo y I come 3 faith Chrift. 6. Both in the book of Gods eternal decrees, and in the book of holy Scripture, this way of taking away the fins of men was eftablifhed, as the only way to efted it; for that the feed of the woman by his fuffering fhould bruife the 'head of the Serpent was foretold by God, Gen. 5. 1?. and Chrift was the Lamb flain in the representative facrifices from the beginning of^ the world > In the volume of thy boo\ it is written of me. 7. Jefus Chrift God incarnate is in Covenant with God the Fatherthac believers maybe in Covenant withGod by this means alfo,therefore doth he call him, 0 my God : as our Lord,^a/;. 20.17. faith,I afcendto my Father and your Father,- to my God and your God. 8. All Chrifts fufferings and fervice done in our name for us, was moft willingly and heartily undertaken and difcharged by Chrift, I delist to do thy will) that is, as the Apoftle,He&. 10.10. doth expound it to perform whatfoever might fan&ifie us throughout for ever. 4, The way of our redemption by Chrifts doing and fuffering for us, is Gods own device, his very will and plea-Fure $ and the obedience of Chrift unto the very death of the crofs, done in our name unto the Father, hath pleafed the Father fully $ 1 delist to do thy wlU> 0 my God. 1 o. The Son of God incar-natewasperfedly holy, fo as he could aafwer to the law compleat* ly, and give accompt of it to the Father j yea, thy law is within my heart: That thefe words may be applied to David > and made ufe of by every believer in their own degree and meafure; there is no queftion but that they are principally and in the maine intention to be applied to Chrift fpeaking of himfelf, the matter it felf doth evidence s for who but he can afcribe to himfelf the accom-? jplifhinsofwhat the typical facrifices forc^fhadowed ? who but he could fatisfie for fin, which the facrifices could not ? Again,the ApoftlePdw/, Hcb* 10, $,6,&c. doth clea:* the matter fo, as no ground of doubting is lefc. In all the Pfalme, let Vavid be as the Shadow, but let Chriit be the fubftance.

Verfe 9. I have preached righteoufnefs hi the great Congregation : lo y l have not tefraimd my lips,0 LORD, thou knoweft.

JO. 1

10. 1 have not hid thy righteonfnefsmthin my heart, lhave declared thy faiihfulnefs and thy falvation : / have not concealed thy loving kindneft^ and thy truth from the great Congregation*

Inthe third place, as Chrift hath given an accompt of the exe* cution of his Preiftly Office, in expiating of fin \ fo here he giveth accompt of his Prophetical Office,to make way for his irtcrceffion. Whencelearn,i.Chriti. did not onlyundertake to fufter for expiation ' for our Gnsjbut alfo he undertook to apply to his people,by preach-ing,the fruits of his fufterings, for their righteoufns and falvation, for juftifyin? fan&irying,and faving the redeemed J have preacbel righteoufnefsin the great congregation.z.Thc way appointed for ap-I plication of the grace purchafed to the redeemed , is preaching I bwe preached righteoufnefs in the great Qongregation^m the vifible Kirk, and in all confluences of the redeemed where opportunity is oftcred. 3. As Chrift did not conceal what might lave fouls, but did communicate it carefully ; fo fhould they who are trufted by him to preach without fear fincerely,as they wil be able to anfwer God , proclaim it, J have not refrained my lips, 0 Lerijbon fi?ww-eft. 4. The true way of juftification of finners by faith, is a Jewel fo precious and neceffary for poor fculs, that it fhould not be concealed, I have not lid thy righteoufnefs -within my he.rt f. One Sermon on this fubjeft is not fufficient, it is Heceflr.ry to make this myftery plain, how by faith in Chrift the man thatfliethto I him is juftified from his fins, and faved according ^0 the Covenant paft between the fuffering Mediatour and God~the faith f ul pro-mifer tojuftiGe and favebythis his own way, I have declared thy faithfulncfs and thy falvation. 6. The way of righteoufnefs and falvation purchafed unto believers by 'efus Chrift, is ve/yfolid and compleat ; for fi ft tbis way of forgiving fins unto us, becaufc of the fatisfa&ion made by Chrift for us in his obedience unto the Father, even unto the death of the Crofs 3 is of Gods own deviling, and his free-gift > therefore as it is called, the righteoufnefs ofGod^om. $ 2i, iz. So here it is called Gods righteoufnels, O LordjI have nothid thy right eoufnefi and the falvation or eternal life annexed unto this imputed and gifted righteoufnefs beftowed upon the embracer of it, is alfo of Gods deviling, and his fiee-.'ift* therefore it rs alfo called bis falvation, I have declared thy falvati-on. Next the certainty and ground of the believers aflurance that this righteoufnefs and falvation is made faft unto him,isthe truth of God, and faithfulncfs of God, obliging himfelf to makaoo^p

this

this way of juftificarion and falvation by the Covenant . of redemption made between the Father and the Son our Media tour , as in the promt fes of the Covenant of grace is fet down in Scripture, which can no more difappoint the believer then the truth and faithfulnefs of God can fail, I have declared thy f&hbfulncj's and thy falvation. And laft of all, the fountain,fpring and rife and unchangeable ground of rtghteoufnefs and falvaticn purchafed by the redemption made by Jefus Chiift^and applied to us by faith in him, is the inhere good will and pleafure ot God, the free grace, the free love and bounty of God, without any deferving of the redeemed 5 I have not concealed thy loving fiindnefs, and'tby truth from the great Congregation-This indeed is a folid'ground. 7. The plain preaching, declaration, andmani-jfeftation of this Gofpel with the grounds thereof, is able by the bleffingof God to perfwade a uembling foul to lay it felf ever uponJefusChrift, and to reft upon the unchangeable truth and lindnefs of God offered to every poor humbled linner, without exception, for the preaching of thefe things, not refraining of the JipSj nothiding of this precious and laving truth. The declari* tion and not concealing of it, is given up here for the fufficiency of means, to apply the purchafed right eoufhefs and falvation by Chrift to the redeemed j and this execution of CiKifts Prophetical Office hath been faithful ly.performed by him, not onely in his perfonal preaching in the dayes of his flefh, bu: alfo in his Ministers both before his incarnation and fince, which alfo (lull be continued from generation to generation, to the end of tho^world, maugre all oppofitionj for Chrift fliall be able to makenolefs perfect account of his ether Offices then of his Kingly Office, when he fliall give up the Kingdome to his Father, 8. What may concern Vavii here as the type of Chrifl, or as one of the fervants ofChrift, we take it up in one word, which is this: The more faithful Preachers be to declare the Gofpel to the falvation of fouls 3 the more confidence and comfort fhaH the teftimony of their confeience afford to them in the day of their trouble; when they come before God, as the Prophet here b^ experience findeth.

Verfe I1 - V/ithhold not won thy tender mercies from me, O LORD'. Lt thy loving kindnefs , and thy truth* continually prefcrve me,

12. Fcr immmtrable evih have compafed me about*

mine imcjuites have taken hold upcn me^ fo that I am not able to look up: they are more then the hakes ojmine heat), therefore my heart fuleth me %

13. Bepleafed, O LORD, to deliver me : 0 LORD, make ha fie to help me.

Chrift having given accompt of his performances;, of what was undertaken, inrercedeth for thepromiied mercies to his Myfti calbody and to himfeIf, as.ftandin?; in the room oftheranfomed i wherein David as the type of Cbriit , and as a member of C hrifts myftical body, hath his own place. Whence learn, x. Becaufe the

[nice of Redemption is holden here as fully payed, and nothing is eft unpayed by Chrifl \ therefore the application of the purch riled \ mercy muft be granted for Chrift, here fpeaking, having declared j his performance of his part of the Covenant frcm vcrf. 6* 10 vcrf ,ii. dorh now require the performance of promifed kindnefsand mercy to him and his myftical body, faying, Withhold not thy , tender mercies from me, 0 Lord : let thy loving kindnefs, and thy 'truth continually preferve me-, and this is a {landing petition of the Mediatour, in favour of his afflicted myftical body in all generations. 2. The unchangeablcnefs of Gods loving kindnefs, j and truth of promifes made in his Covenant, is a fqlid ground of • aflurance that the Lord will not withheld his tender mercies from I the afflicted believer; for upon this ground, do the parts of his; 1 petition run$ Withhold not thy tender mercies from me,and let\{ind~ j nefs and truth continually preferve me. 3. Albeit the troubles which ! are inflicted, be drawn on by fin, and be the effects of juil wrath for fin, yet are they alfothe object of tender mercies, when the afflicted do prcfent both their troubles and their fins, which defer-ved them before Gods merciful eyc 5 for here a reaibn of hoping io\: tender mercy; is brought from both trouble and fin lying on 5 for innumerable evils have compiled me about, and my hi qui ties have i ta^eu bold on me. 4. L»y vcrtue ofthe interccfftoii of Chrift, every i believer rmy take up the lame ftrppiicarkn in C hriitsname, and 1 prefent it in his own behalf unco God, in the time of trouble and: neceflity; for as 'David might make this v.ie of ft, as one of the members of the myftical body : fo may all the reft of believers al-jfo; beemfe Chrift the Mediatour doth own all the fins of all his redeemed ones as his own, as made his by confen: to have them ( imputed unto him,and hath born the pmijfhment thereof fo much ' as rmy and dorh fatisfie juftice for them. Therefore Chiift in the

T be-

behalf of his redeemed ones, and every believer in Chrift for that refped may exped continual prefervation by the loving kindnefs and truth of God laid in pawn for it by the Covenant, when they have recourfe to God in the time when trouble and guiltinefs docKboth fet on at once, for the reafon of the p ayer; is fo conceived, ask may fit both the Mediator interceding for his myftical body, and every wearied foul alio who is fled to God through Chrift byfaith in him, that he may find hisoutgate and deliverance in, wirh, and for Chrift, Let t l y loving lyndnejs and truth cortinuaUy prejerve me; for innumerable evils bavz covpaffed me about 3 mine iniquities have u\en hold on me. 6. Nothing can fo empty a man.and lay him low, and fill him with confufion of face, as his fin purfuing him, Mine iniquities have ta^en hold upon me t fo that I am not able to lookup. 7, When all that is a mans own, as natural ftrength,wit,or courage doth fail, yet God doth not fail, and faith doth nor faiU For here when it u come to this, my heart fxileth me. Faith ftands up, and in prayer pleadeth for mercy and kindnefs upon this very reafon, becaufe the heart doth fail. 8. As-the ftrait is great,and the burden heavy, and the creature weak: fo is the delivery and help neer at hand, Bepleafed, 0 Lordjo deliver me: 0 Lordjna\c bafte to help me.

Vcrfe 14. Let them he afhamed and confounded together that (eek^ after my foul to deftroy it : let them be driven backward, and put to fhame that ^tfh me evil.

15. Let them be defolate for a regard of their fhame, that fay unto me> zAha. aha !

From that part of his prayer, which is againft his enemies $ Learn, 1. As :he Lord for the interceffion of Chrift will not fail to help his people in troubles fo will he not mifs to ciifap-poinr, And. bring mifchicf upon the enemies of "his people, how many and how ftrongtoever they be y Let them be confounded together and ajfomed that [cell my foul todejlroy it. 2. Not only the open perfecu'tors-of the goaly, but all their ill vvillers and unfriends, whocouldbecontcii.ro fee evil come upon Gods Kirk, ftiall be pur.ifhed with the open adverfaries 5 They j%U be driven backward and pin to Jhamt that wijh them evil. 3. The mocking of the godly and putting them toihame, is the (hame indeed of the mockers, and not of the godly upon whom in cheir fuflfer-in^s the Spirit of glory doth-reft, and therefore ftiall the wicked

feocner*

PSAL. XL. ±7$

fcorners bear their own lhame and their puntfhment 5 Let them b't defoki'e, for a rcw. rd of their flume, that fay unto me, Aba, aba !

Vcrfe 16. Let all thofe that feel^thee rejoyce and fo glad in thee: let fuch at love thy Jahation^faj continual* ly, The LO R D be magnified.

17. 'But 1 am poor and needy, yet the Lordthinketh upon me: thou art mj help and my deliverer,make no taf* ryingfimy God.

From this prayer that the reft of the godly may have comfort by

his delivery, which delivery he do:h confidently expect ; Learn,

t. As every mercy tc eve: y believer giveth' a proof of Gods readi-

nefs to mew the like mercy to all believers,when thcyftand in neec \

fo fhould every mercy fliwento any of the namber^befng known to

the reft, be made the matter and cccafion of magnifying the

Lord-, Lex all tbo]e that feelithee rejoyceandbe lad in tkee.i.The

godly .whofe property it is to be partakers of the affliction of

Chrift with ethers, and to feek God, and to wait for the Lords

way of delivery, and do love the fafety of his" people, fhall hav^

reafon to rejoyce and praife God continually for new cbedienceS

of his mercy to his own; Let all thofc that feefi thee rejoyce and be

glad in thee : let fuch us love thy falvation,fay continually, The Lord.

be magnified. 3. It is an ufual condition of the godiy, before

they be delivered out of any difficulties, to be made once fenlible

I of their own weaknefs,emptinefs, and neceflities 5 as here, lam

I foor and needy. 4. It is an ordinary exercife of the 3ffli&ed> to

be defpifed of the world, and contemned, and this alio is a tehta-

tion to move them to miftake their own condition before God; for

fo doth the Pfalmift propound the matter before God > But (faitfr

I he) lam poor and needy. 5. Whatfoever the world or lenfe and

j falie fuggeftions do fay of the afflicted, yet faith j^ives ground of

I afllirancc that our bale and mean condition h fo tar from making

[ us loathfome to G^d, that by the contrary the lower we arc

j b: ought the more we are in his heart and eftimatfonj let the

Lordthinfietb upon me; and Gods rcfpecHngof us, mayeafiiy

make up ourlofs of refpeft among men'. 6% When the believer

I hath faftened his faith, he may-expect fhortly his relief, Thou art

my help and my deliverer > f3tth,he, &d then.^e no tarrying,® m}

"t s FSAL,

■=»*——»—■»—>» - ' ■ ■ ■■■■ i" .■■■■I. i ———,

PSAL, XLI.

To the chief tiiuficun. A T!fdmc of David.

p4f/^ as a Type of Chrift, and one of his afflided followers, after prayer comforteth himfelf againft the uncharitable judgement, which the wicked badofhiminhisaffliftion, wr. 1,2,3,4. In the-fecond place, he complaineth of his enemies curfed difpofition againft him, and prayeth to be delivered out of his trouble, ver. 5,6,7, 8,9,10. In the third place, he rs anfwered comfortably, and praifeth God for it, ver. n, 12, 13.

Verfe l.TYteffed is he that conftdereth the poor : ID the LOBSD mil deliver him in time of trouble.

2. The LOKD mil preferve him>andtyep him alive f andhejhallbe bleffedupon the earth; and thou wilt not deliver him unto the mil of his enemies\

3. The LO RD will firengthen him upon the hed oflanguiflnng : thou wilt make all his bed in hisfick^ nefs. 1

4. Ifaid y LOTx'Djte merciful unto me : heal my fou /, for 1 have finned against thee.

THat he may comfort the godly in their afflictions, and correct the common judgement of the world concerning afflicted people , he giveth a realbn for which it is fafe to judge charitably of every man who humbleth himfelf before God in his affliction:' JVlicncc learn, 1. Albeit it be ufual for the world to jud^e all them that are afflicted, to be plagued of God in wrat"h,yet it is a blefled courfe to ftudy to frame our hearts to a wife and diftrcet judging of ether mens eftates, by looking to a mans be-

havi-

haviour in his trouble, and to judge charitably of the man wh° is contrite, and humbleth himfelf before God in his affliction> Blejfed is be that confideretb the poor , or giveth comfort and induction to the weak. 2. It is a blefled thing for a man afflicted and humbling himfelf before God, to judge charitably of his own condition, as well as of anothers condition in the like cafe 5 for, Bleffed is be that conjidcretb the povr> is fo fet down as it is applicable tc* the patient in affliction judging of himfelf, nolefs then to the beholder of another in affliction : and for confirmation of this, he giveth fix reafons of comforting the afflicted and humbled man, and confirming the charitable beholder and judger of him as a fellow-fufterer with him. 3. The afflicted and humble man mail be delivered out of his trouble, be what it maybe, The Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. This is the fir ft reafon of the comfort, and withall a reafon of confirmation and encouragement of him that doth judge wifely or the afflicted. 4. The Lord hath a way of delivery,not onely from trouble,thar a man fall net in it, and not only of delivering from trouble, by removing of the trouble, butalfo a way of delivery, when the trouble is yet remaining, to wit, by fuftaining the man,comfort~ ing of him, laving of him from any harme by the trouble, giving him good by the trouble, quieting his minde by patient fub-mimon unto God under the trouble,#V. The Lord will deliver him in time of trouble, and this is branched out in particulars in the verfes following, ?.s fo many reafons of comfort, and charitable judging of his own condition and others. 5. Albeit the godly be brought very low, yet mall he not perim, The Lord will prefcrvchim, and keep him alive > and this is the fecond reafon of comfort, albeit he faint, and have foul-fwarfes now and then, yet fhall fpiritual life be kept in him. 6. N^neofthe godly mans afflictions (hall hinder or take away his begun bleflednefs, even in this world; He fhall be blejfed on the earth, and this is the third reafon of comfort j if it may be for Gods glory and the mans good, this temporal life ihall be preferved, and evidences of Gods blefling (hall be feen upon him. 7. No perfecutor mall drive the godly man from his point, and make him forfake God or the wayofgodlinefs; if he flip in a ftep, God mall raifehim up again; Thou wilt not deliver him to the will of his cnmt^firA this is the fourth reafon of his comfott. 3. The^Cord'wiU ftrengthen the godly to bear whatsoever trouble he putteth on him 5 The Lord will jirengthen him on the bed of languijhing And thij is the fifth reafon of tys comfort. 9. The Lord fhall miti-

T * sate

gate and moderate all the afflictions of the godly, and e.afe him under his trouble, "as tenderly as when a tick perfons be«^ is made the beft way that can be for his cafe 3 Thou (liall ma\e all bis bed in bisfickjiefs, and this is the fixrh reafon of his comfort, i o/The man who may look for all thefe confolations, and may be judged of charitably, whether it be himfelf or another, is the man who in the fenfe of his fins humblcth himfelf before the Lord, efpeci-ally when he is afflicted, and Hieth to Gods mercy : fuft, to have fins pardoned; and next,to have his trouble removed, as God feeth It fit for his felvation. This is pointed out in Davids behaviour under his t ouble, of fet purpofe that he may give the character ofthe Lords poor man, to whom the forefaid comforts do belong, and of who fe eftate a good inftriiciion is to be made; IfaiA, Lord, be merciful tome, bed my foul, for I have finned a-gainft thee.

Verf 4 <>. Mine enemies Jpeak^ evil of me : when fhallhe die, and his name perifb ?

6. Jind if he come to fee me, he [peaketh vanity : his heart gather eth iniquity to it [elf, when he goeth abroad^ he tellethit.

7. All that hate me tyhifper together againft me : a-gainft me do they devife my hurt*

* 8, An evil dijeafe , fay they , cleaveth faU unto him : and now that he lieth , he pa all rife up no more,

£L Tea, mine own familiar friend in whom 1 truft-ed \ which did eat of my bread, hath lift up hi* heel a-gainji me,

10, Tint thou, 0LO.R&) be merciful unto me, and raife me up that I may requite them,

"From his complaint againft his enemies, let down in the fecond place; Learn, 1. Evil fpeeches againft the godly will be taken notice of by God, and made a part of the wickeds ditty., Mine enemies fteati evilcf me. 2. The malice of the enemies of god-linefs is fuch againft the godly, as nothing but their utter overthrow and rooting out from the earth of fuch a fort of people can iatisfie them, 'Wbenfhall be die and bis name per if) I fay they.

j« Ths

?. The godly have to do not only with open enemies, but with fecret falfedifTemblcrsalfo, who will confefs friendfliip with fair words, when they are following the way of malice, from whofe fal/hood there is no refuge more then from the force of the open enemy, favetoflieto God, the Judge of all opptefled people; If be come to fee me, be fpcaficth vanity* many fair words, but none ofthem true. 4. The tnA of the wicked mans pretended kindnefs to the godly, and cf his infmuating of himMf in their fellowship is, that he may make obfervation of fomething in their behaviour or condition or fpeeches, whereof he may make advantage againft them, Ifkecometbto fecme 3 b < heart gather-ctb iniquity to it [elf', when be goeth abroad bctelletbii. ?. Albeit the wicked can do no more againft the godly tten God will permit to be done for the godly mans excrcife and good,yet many are the ebnfultations which the wicked have, that they may hurt and deftroy the godly, All that hate me wbifper together again ft "me, Againft me do they ievifc my hurt. 6. When the godly fall 10 ftraits, the wicked judge that the godly fhall never get out of their trouble, and in this hope do refrefh themfelves, An cvildifeafc cieavethfaft unto him, and novo that he lictb, befall rife no more. 7- The lot appoinred to Chrift, and to all the true members of his myftical body as well as to Davidjs to find in the time of their trials a hard meeting in the world from the wicked, how many bonds foever of nature,frknJiliip,familiarity,or obligations of the wicked unto the godly intervene which orhcrwayes might require better offices ', fca'mincown familiar friend in whom I trufted, which did eat of my bread, hath lift up his heel againft me. 8. We muft not dwel upon our naileries in time o^ trouble, as if we had nothing to do fave to weep and mourn, but we fliould turn our klvesto God,and pray to him for mercy, and expedl a delivery, as the Pfalmift doeth here, But thou, q Lord,be merciful to the* and raifemeup. 9. Albeit it be not fit for every believer, to refolve requiting of their perfecutors and enemies, as it was fit zo David as a M\giftrate, and to Chrift who is King of Kin^s, here re-prefented by him 5 to refolve vengeance, and to execute the fame alio againft their enemies : yet every believer may be afl-redof this, that what injuies are done to Chrift in their perf:>n 3 Chrift fhall requite their perfecutors; for be In his myftical members fhall n ever be fo born down, but iKfiTull be raifed up again (as he was raifed upperfonilly after his pcffdnal LufferingO Ttyifc me ufo that Imjy reunite them.

t 4 y«fc

Verf. II. By this I know that thou favours ft me ~. becaufte mine enemie doth not triumph over me.

12. And asforme y thou uphold?ft me in mine integrity : andfetteft me before thy face for ever.

13. Bleffed be the LORD God of Ifraelfrom ever* fafting and to everlafting % Amen, and Amen.

In the laft part of the Pfalme is his thankfgiving, prefuppo-(ing that the Pfalme was drawn up after the delivery from the trouble, which is fet forth in the former part. Whence learn, j. Albeit external deliveries from enemies, and fuccefs external do not alwayes ferve for matkes of Gods favour (ft r one ill man in an ill caufe may have fuccefs for a time) yet when the man is reconciled to God, 3nd the caufe which the reconciled man de-fendeth againft his perfecutors, is the Lords caufe, in this cafe 3f God fhall give to his fervant either fpiritual vicTtory, ihatthe enemy do not fo prevaile over him, as to drive him from his righteous caule or external victory, and deliverance alfo from the power of the adverfary, together with the fpiritual victory $ in this caie (I hy) the word of God, and the work of God concurring, do give evidence nor only of Gods favouring the mans perfon,bnt aifo of his favouring the mans caufe and carriage in the caufe, fo as he may fay, By this I know tbxt tbou fxvourefi me y becaufe mine enemie doth not triumph over me. 1 , tlpiightnefs is a fpecial means to bring a man through difficulties, and whatfover infirmities the believer be fubjeel: unto, he mall not want comfort, if he keep the confeience of integrity, uprightnefs, and fincerity 5 for this is the Pfalmifts rejoycing, when he lcoksback upon his former exercife under trouble, As for me, thou upholdefl me in my integrity. 3. The wife wraftler with tentations , is made at length to fee and acknowledge by the experience he hath of him-felf and of Gods help in time of tentation, that all the glory of his ftanJing and bearing out in trouble for righteoufnefs 3 doth belong co the Lord, Thou upholdefime in mine integrity , 4. Experience of Gods gracious bearing out of a believer in time of triil, fcrveth for a good argument to make him confident of the continuance of Gods favour to him for ever 5 yea after experiences ani victorie God ufeth to give fome meafure of perfwa-fionof his everlafting love toward them that have overcomes as ficrej, Thou fettefl)ne before thy face for ever. 5. He that gets a

fight

light of Gods love to him, may knit Gods felt favour in effect wirh Gods evedafting love decreeing to (hew favour and his ever* lafting love communicating it felf to him, and performing the decrees of love touchiug him, and may behold the courfe of ever -laftirrgs bleflings running from eternity before the world, to ever-lafting alter the world, and the believer having feen it, fliould acknowledge this with praife and thankfgiving; as here, Bleffcd be the Lord God of Ifrael from cvcrlafting to cverlafli?ig, 6. He , that feeth the courfe of Gods love tohimfelf, fceth Gods love in conjunction with the reft of the Lords people alio, who are joyn-cd in the fame Covenant with him unto God in Chrift, BlejfcJ. be the Lord God of Ifncl, fayes the Pfalmift , now when he will blefs God for his own particular mercy. 7. Frefh experiences of Gods love in a particular trial,efpecially when the foul is lifted up : to the eternal orginal, and everlaitingendurance of it, will make a 1 fou! heartily with all his ftrength giveth cverlafting praife toGod, and feal it affectionatly again and again^B lejfed be the LordGod of J fuel from evcrlafting to evcrlafting vAmcYi , and Amen.

PSAL. XLII.

To the chief Mufician^Mafcbil, for thefoTiscffyrab*

In thisPfalme 7)avU{hzwcth what was his longing after the fellowfhip of the Saints in their publike worfhip and fervice of God, in the time of his banifhment, by the perfecution of Sau/ 3 ver. 1,2,9,4. and how he wraftled with difcourage-ments, by checking hitnfelfforit, and by praying to God, whereby he was erefted unto hope and confidence to be anfwered, ver. 5. 6 } 7, 8, ■ 9,10, 11.

Verf. 1. A S the Hart fanteth after the water-jf\ brooks: fo pmteth my foul after thee, O God.

2. My

%H PSAL. XLII.

2. My foul thirfleth for Cjod y for the living God: whenfbxll I come and appear before God?

3, Aiy tears have been my meat day and night: while they continually fay unto me , where is thy God?

4. When 1 remember thefe things , / pour out my foul in me 5 for 1 had gore with the multitude^ I 'Went with them to the houfe of God^ with the voyce of joy and fraife, With a multitude that kept holy day.

HE fetteth down his fad condition in his banifhmentj efpedf ally when he remernbred the folemn afl'embly of Gods peopl c at the Temple, and faw himfelf either in the wildernefs, or a-mong the heathen, deprived of the ufc of publicise ordinances. Whence learn, 1. It is not a bare formal ufe of the ordinances, but communion with God himfelf, which the lively believer dothfeek after in the ufeof the publike ordinances, Vdy foul m pantetb after thee, 0 Qod. 1. Spiritual affections when they are raifedj and by delay, or by outward reftraint are kept oft from fatisfa&ipn, are comparable inmeafure or in the point of fincerity to the kindly appetite of natural food,^ tbs heart pjmctb after the water-brook/ y fo panteth my foul after thccfi God. 4. Worfhip? pers of the true God do find, and more and more may finde lively refreshments to their fouls in him, the experience whereof doth kindle their dcfire of the renewing thereof by fuch means, as they have found refrefliments by before. My foul thirftcth for God, for the living God* ?• Jtecaufc the affemblies of the Kirk, for the exercife of Religion, are the tryfting places, where God ufeth to fliew himfelf to his people; therefore lovers of God are hearty lovers of the publike ordinances, and moft defirous to frequent ihernfor that caufej Worn JhaU I come and appeare before God* 0. It is not enough for theNvicked to fee the godly in affliction, except they impute rhz mifery of the godly unto their Religion and infult over them, cither as Atheifts,oras falfc worfhippers, or as hypocritical people'forfaken of God 5 They fay continually •unto me, Where is thy God I 7- To finde Satan and wicked,men, and Gods fad dilpenfations fceming tofpeaW rejection from God, aad to fee the glory of the trueReligionpnd a mans own intercft in

God

Qod called in qucftion, and .-lirufl: through with {lay darts of Jnfulting enemies, is a matter indeed of great grief, and able to render all the comforts of the earthly creatures taftlefs to aj*odly foul, ZMy tears have been my meat day and nighty while they fuy unto mc , Where is thy God? 8. As they who have had moil plenty of the means of grace, may have fcarcity of them ere all be done $ fo now will take the inlack of them more heavily, then they who have reaped moft fpiritual benefit by them) When I remember thefe things, J pour out my (out in mc. 9. The Saints mould be (6 far from feparation from the fellowfhip of the vifiblc Kirk in the pub!ike exerrife of holy ordinances, albeit they know certainly that all are not found profeffors who are to joyn with them, that it mould be their joy to have multitudes partaking in the ufe, at leaft of fome of the publike means, and fuch as were not publikcly fcandalous joyning in all the ordinances, whereby God might be openly honoured, and bis elect among them might in Gods own time be converted; for David. -went with the multitude, and that to the glory of Cjod, with il?c voyce of joy and praife, and with a multitude that \ept holy day. And this was at the time when King Saul and his Curtiers wertjoyned in the publike ordinanees with him and with^tftti-than and other fuch godly perfons : Now what the confliturion of the Kirk vifible was in Sauls dayes,in regard of the hypocriiie of profeffors known to David, fundry of Davids Pfalmes do make evident, and yet for all that he wilhcth to have the like occaticn ofworfhipping God again, and doth account highly of what he fometimes did enjoy.

Verf. 5. why art thou cafldttvn^O my foul, and why art thou difyuieted in.me ? hope thon in God y for I fha.ll jtt praife him for the help of l^ts countenance,

Inthefecond part of the Pfalme, he wreflleth with difcou-* ragements, and the conflicts are four. Inthefiril he labourcth to comfort hjmfelf three wayes ; firft.by checking himfclf for his dejection of fpirit, and for difquietnefs; next, by {liningup the grace of God in hirafelf, namely faith and hope \ thirdly, by application of the word of promife made unto him for ftrengthening of both 10 bear him out, till the Lord (hould manifeft bispro-mifed kindnefs. Whence learn, 1. When fore troubles inftcad of humbling a man, do prefs him down unto dejection, and dif~

courage-*

couragement of minde} it is a graciotismans part to check him-himfelf for this reafonlefs fit of unbeliet^and to put his confcience to anfwer for yielding fo far to the tentation 5 Why art thou caft down, 0 my foul* 1. Mil-belief in a child of God is followed withreftlefnelVof fpirit. as a chaftifement drawn on by that fin, for which difquieting himfelf the man may juftly be challenged alfo,and will not be able to give a reafon for it, Why art thou dif-quieted within me? J. The only means of remedying discouragements and unquietncfs of minde, is to fet faith on work to go to God, and take hold on him, and to caft anchor within the vail, hoping for and expecting belief from him, Hope thou in God. 4. The believer in the midft of trouble, may promife to himfelf new experience of Gods kindncfs and confolation by delivery out of it, and to God he may promife praifes; Ijhall yetpraife him for the help of his countenance.

Verfe 6. O my God 9 my foul U caft frown -within me : therefore -will I remember thee from the land cf Jordan^ And of the Hermonites , from the hill A/iJfar.

Inthefecondconflidhe turneth him to God, andlayeththe cafe of his difcouraged heart before him, labouring to make ufe of old experience. Whence learn, 1. Albeit a deje&ed and difcon-folatc foul may and fhould deal with it felf rationally, to recover it felf, yet can it not do it effeftually;but as a man fick and weak, and fain from his bed calleth for help : fo muft it call to God,and lay out its cafe before him, that he may recover it, 0 my God, ny fouliscaft down within me. 2. Albeit the power of making the means efjfe&ual, be not in us, but in the Lords hands, yet mufl: we not ceafe to ufe the meaus rationally foil, whereby the Xord ufeth to convey his efficacious power, and to call to minde experiences, as a good means for recovering of our felves > My foulis caft down,0 God, therefore will I remember thee from the Land of Jordan. That is, I will aime at comforting my felf], by remembring what I have found by experience in feverall places of $udea of thy goodnefs to me : and I will look to the holy land, and to the Temple, the place where thy gracious preience is offered, and where thy honour dwelleth.

Verf. 7. T)eep GnUtihmtodeep m the noife of thy

Water-

water-[pouts : all thy waves and thy biUovos are gone over we.

In the third conflict, wherein the very remembrance of by-eone experience , which even now was made ufe of tocomforc tirri, dothkinulc afrelhagaine his grief, Learn, 1. Though the ufing of the right and appointed means to comfort us, fhodld feem to us to have a contrary cffc<fr to what we intended, and to encreafe our grief by our ufing them, yet Ml mull we wraftle on>ufing ftill cue means after another, mixing prayer with all o-ther means,as David cloth here, laying, Deep calletb to deep at the wife of tky waterspouts. 2. As the noife of raine from the clouds raifeth a noiie of the infoiour waters and floods \ as the railing of brooks doth raife the rivers^ and all do fhut themfelves into a fea* and as the waves of the fea do call one upon another to 1 follow the former at the backrfo one grief doth waken anothc: 3 one tentation doth ftrengthen another, one affii&ion augmenteth another , till a fea of troubles raifed by a ilorm be like to overwhelm the man, eAll thy waves and tby billows are gone over me.

Verf 8. Yet the LOR*D mil command hit loving kindnefs in the day-time % and in the night hU fong lhall be with me y and my prayer unto the God of my life.

9. I mil fay unto Cjo^ My rock, Why haft thou forgotten me > why go 1 mourning, becaufe of the oppref-jion of the enemy f

To oppofe this new aflault/akh puts forth it felf the third time, promifing to the wraftler what God hath promifed to the believer, whereupon herefolveth to plead his canfe more hardly, and ply God yet again with prayer more earneftly, that he may prevaile. Wb.ncelearn, 1. Faith teeth in Gods Word and in by-gone evidence of his truth manifefted in his word as it. were written. Order and commiflion ready to be given forth in acls of providence foi fatisfying the believer with fo much frefti experience, as may-fill him day and night with fenfe of Gods love and fongs of p«aife, let the Lord will command bis loving liminefs in theday-%ime z audintbexigbtbis fong fhatt be with :me. 2. The care of our lifeiodiiy, fpirkualj and evcvlaftinglieth upon Go\ > by ver-

rue

tueofhisCovenantwithustokeepit, to feed it and renew It irk all the decayes thereof, till it be pofleffed of unchangeable blef-fednefs, the belief whereof is a ground of perfeverance in prayer, (My prayer [ball be unto the God of my life. $. Faith may improve its right before God, and plead that the believer be not rejected, and may regrate any appearance which is effered tofenfe: of rejection, I will fay unto God, Why baft thou forgotten me I 4» The believer in his complaints muft not weaken his own faith, but weaken his unbelief rather, and to this end mould faften his faith ere he complain, I mil [ay unto God My fOc\ , there faith is fattened, then followeth the complaint, rob) haft: thou fogottat me ? why go I mourning beeaufe of the opprejfwnof the enemy ?

Verfe 10. As with afword in my bones^ mine enemies reproach me : while they fay daily unto me^ Where is thy God?

11 Why aft thou ca(l down i 0my foul? and why art thou difqaieted within me ? hope thou in god; for I Jball yet praife him, who is the help of my countenance^ and my God.

In the fourth conflict which he hath chiefly with the mockers of his Religion, and of his eaufe, and of his traft in God$ Leant, I. The fharpeft part of a believers trial and affliction is, when in his perfon Religion and Gods glory is mocked , this cruel fort of perfecution pierceth deepeft in his heart, becaufe it tends to drive the man to defperation, and to make Religion and faith in God out of requcft, As with a [word in my bones, mine enemies reproach me. 2. Continuance of the reproach of godlinefs, and of theinfolency ot mockers fcorning Religion in the afflicted mans face,in the time when it feemeth that his affliction ipeaketh defperation of relief, doth greatly encreafe the power of the tenta-tion,and the L^odly mans giief: A (word in my b nes while tley fay daily unto mt 3 ,'twere is thy God ? As the battel againft difcouuagc-ments ana unL Ifef ufeth to be of r tner renewed even after the believer hath gotten the victory once and again, and as the wraftlers weaknefs ufeth oftener to !<e made evident: fo the fame means and weapons mull be qftener ufed. and we mull not be weary to fight on; for, IVby art thou aft dow'1,0 my foul, is now repeated as before s themif-beliefand Hifquietnefs drawn on by misbelief, muft be yet again rebuked., Why art thou difyuieted within me ?

Faith

Faith and hope rauft be fet a work againft all the difappearances of help, Hope thou in God > we rauft (as it were) be furety to our fclves for Gods promifes made to u$, that they (hail be performed, I Jhll yet praifcbim> 4. As when the Lord doth withdraw both the cutward tokens of his favour, and alfo his inward confolation for a time, the countenance of the godly cannot chufe but be heavy, call down, and look fad like a man that is fuk , fo when God returneth to comfort, and to own his own, either both inwardly and outwardly, or inwardly only 5 the mans face locketh chef rful, He is the health of my countenance. ?.AL though the Lord for a time (hall neither remove the outward affliction, nor yet inwardly give comfort, yet faith will fuftain it felf upon the Covenant, and lay its whole weight upon it, and may do it confidently 3 for it will not-fink under the man > nor under his burden, He is my god.

PSAL. XL III,

This Pfalme tendcth to the fame purpofe with the former; for 'David in exile complaineth of his perfecucors, and prayeth for delivery, and re-gratethhis fad condition, ver. 1,2. prayeth for reftitution unto the liberty of the publike ordinances , promfing to praife God at his returning cheerfully, ver. 3,4, andwraftleth with his difcouragements as he did irt the former Pfalme, ver. 5.

Verf. t.TVdge me, OSod, and plead my caufe a-J gainfi an ungodly nation : 0 deliver me from the deceitful and unjuft man.

2. For then art the God of my ftrengthjvby doefl thou caft me off? why go I monrning^becajife of the opprcfficn of the enemj ?

Froiut

FRom his complaint and prayer againft his enemies ; Learn j-jr. As the godly have ufually enemies powerful, many craf-tie and cruel opprefllng them for right eoufneffc y io want they not a Judge impartial, who is lufficient to take order with their adverfavies,to whom they may and mould addrefs themfelves in their affliction , as David doth here : Judge me, 0 Lord, and plead my caufe againft an ungodly Nation, i. The craftineffe,and Jalfhood, and fair pretences,whereby the enemies do palliate their cruel purpofes 3 are more dangerous then their profefled cruelties from which no wifdome, except divine direction^can fave a man> O deliver me from the deceitful and unjuft man. $. What the oppreffed Kirk , or particular Beleever wanteth,that God h3th, and is to be forth-coming for the Beleev^rs ufe and benefit, (as his need fhall be,) to uphold him by it, and comfort h.m,and deliver him, and bleffe him : For, Thou art tbcGod ofmyftrengtb. 4. Although the Lord be all in all to us by Covenant^ yet for our good and his own glory he may foexercile us, as we may want poffeffion for a time of what we have in promife $ yea, and feeme alfotobethruftoutofourright; in which cafe if we (hall once fixe our faith , we fhall have liberty to difpute our right againft all tentations, and to expreffe the fenfe of our condition unto God without being miftaken, as here 'David doth, faying ( not before, but aftet the fixing of his faith : ) Why doft tbou caft me off? Why go I Mourning for the opprejfwn of the enemie ?

Verft 3. 0 fend out thy light and thy truth ; let them leadme , let them bring me unto thy holy hill^ and to thy Tabernacles.

4* Then will I go unto the Altar of God^ unto God my exceeding joy : yea, upon the harp will I praifc thee 3 O God^ my God.

From his prayer and promife of thankfgiving ; team, I, No tcntation unto difcouragement, noi feeming defertion mould divert the Beleever from pur filing his delire of relief, but rather kindle his affeftionin prayer: 0 find out thy light. 2. Comfort deliverances from troubles, and performance of promifes when they moft difappcarj are kept to the fere to us, and faft locked up , to be let forth in due time unto us: 0 fend out thy light, and thy truth. 5. Direction how to carry our felves till we okayic our defires y and obfejjvation of the fteps of Gods pro-

videncej

Vidcnce, bringingusto the pofleffion cf prcmifcJ mercies 3 arc ncceflary preparations foi the mcrcie which we feck, and mould be prayed for as mercies in order preceding that particular which we would have : L t them lead mcy let them bringme unto thy holy bill. 4. Spiritual grief muft have fpiritual comfort; godly (orrow for di fiance from God and want of thef comfortable ufc of his ordinances, admitreih no comfort, favea comforc of that kinder for David longeth more to have the free ufe of the publick ordinances , then to have the Kingdome ; Therefore faith he 3 Let them i ring me to thy holy hill 3 and to thy Tabernacles. 5. The rirft thing a foul is to look unto in his addrefle to God, is the means of expiation of his fin 3 and that isChrift freprefented by the Altar/ ofteing himfdf a ranfome for the (inner j and fanftifyingtheperfon of the offerer 9 and the worship and fervice of the man that comes to God through him$ Then will I go to the tAltar of God. 6. This way of making addreffe to God by Chrift 3 giveth prefent zeectte. to God , and peace to the foul of him who draweth near this way : Thus I will go to.God t 7. God laid hold upon through Chrift , iurnifti-eth not only peace, but unfpeakable joy alio to the Beieevet ; jtzj God reconciled through Chrift, is the life of the Beleevers gladneflc , J will go to God , my exceeding joy. 8. As is the longing of the foul alter God , when it is at a diftance from him i io is the confolation and frtisfa&ion which it findeth after renewed accede; and as the fupplicant is earneft for renewed fenfe of fellowfhip : io doth he purpofe that the prailes of God mail be hearty at the receiving of that which he longed for, and alio that his faith /hall be ftronger by the fattening oi the bond of the Covenant between him and God more ftrongiy : I will prai e thee with the harpc , 0 my God.

Verfe. 5* PFhy art thou cat! down i O my foul? and why art thou difquieted within me ? hope m God j for IftaUyetpraifcbim, who is the health of my countenance'andmj God.

He ciofeth this Pfalme as the former, letting faith and hope on wotk to wraftle with.di'couragcmenr, Whence lcarn y 1. The ftrongeftBeleevermay be overtaken with fits of dejection ancf difcouragernent j for this Champion findeth Ins foul call down.' ?-, A prating foul believing in God through*Chrift, hatS ntf

ft reaforf

* e afon of Jcjcftion and ^ifcouragemenr.j whatfoevfcr reafon of kuniiliation he may have : Why art thou aft down , 0 my foul ? 3. Tc is a fanaitying rae.uis tor wraftling out of difcouragemenr, , r cdifputcmif bcliet to the door, ortodifpute our ielves'out of the dumps by region taken from the Lords word , and it is wit-dome to get .he cohfrieri'ce to be our irrend , when the minde and the heart ate in a wrong temper in thi* cafe 3 it is neceffary to fake Gods pan againft mifoclief, and unwarrantable unquiet-fiefie , and trr difpure both his caufcandour own ngainft tenta-fations: IVby anthoudifquictcd within m? 4. No reft to a troubled and unquiet fpir.it/jbui by calling anchor on theRock^and hrpinginGod $ Hope thou ir God. 5. Hope cannot raife it felt in trouble, hue by the gripe of a promife } Hope in God, for 1 (Butljctpraife him. 6.Though Faith be in davkneHe^yet will it lee afarre oft, to icon as ft puts the prefpeft of the Covenant of Gr?ceto its eye , it difcerneth the proper remedy of prefent evils to be in God 5 and the good it would bear ^ coming along unto it, ancfisasfurebfitj as if it were in pofliflion : He U the health of my coftntciwice y and my God %

V S A L. XLIV.

To the chief' Mufichn for the fons of Konh.

The Kirk under heavie perfecution: Firft, ftrengthe-ncth her faith in God before fhe enter upon her lamentation, verf 1,2,3 4j^ 6 ^79 8 - ^ the fecond place, (he layeth forth her fad fuf-ferings under the hand of the cruel! peirfecu-• tors, verf. 9,*o, 11, f2,13, M 3 15,16. In the third, fhe profeffeth her eonftant adherence unto God, and doth avow his truth for time by-paft, and her purpofe to continue for time to come, verf. ij t ig, 19, 20,21,22. In the laft place, they pray unto the Lord to arife, &n4 relieve them from their cruell perfceutors,

for

for the glory of both his juftice and mercy, verf. 23, 24,25.

FRontheInfc;iption 3 Learn* Seeing the Canon of the whol£ Hebrew Bible is commended to us by Chrift and his Apo-Hies , as the undoubted word of God , and the undoubted Scripts es given bv infpiiation of the Holy Spirit to the holy men of God, die writers thereof, askeptintire and not vitiate by the Jewess (whole honour for prciervihg faithfully &he Oracles of God committed unto them : . is unftained > Rom. 4. i.J We are not to trouble our felves about the name of the writer 3 or time of writing of any part thereof, efpecially becauie God of fet pur-pofe concealeth the name fundry times of the wiitcr 3 and the time when it wis written; That we might look in every bool^, more to the enditer of it, then to the writer of it • and that the life of any excrcife cfany of the Saints fet down therein^might be fo much the more large > as the confederation of particular cir-cumftances of time and perfons, (w hereunto it might feem only to be applied), were laid afule > For this Pfalme wanting the name of the writer, and time of the writing of it alio ^ is looked uponby the Apoftle, T[om.%. 36. not only as an experience of the Kirk before us, but alfo as a prcpheck of the martyrdome of Chriftians under the Gofpel, and as an encouragement to ftani conftant in the faith in hctteftpcrfccutionSo

Verf.i.VT/^ have heard with our ears , 0 Godi V V our fathers have told tu what wovkjhovi didtfl in their dajes, in the times of old.

2. How thou didfl drive out the heathen with thy hand, and planted/} them ; how thou didfl affltfi the people t and caft them out,

3. For they got not the land in poffe/JIon ly their own fword, neither d'd their own armefave them ; bat thy right hand<> and thine arm*, and the I ght of thy countenance , becaufcthou badfi a favour unto them.

FOr the confirmation of their faith y they lay forth three arguments. The firft is horn the Lords mighty work in driving ton the Canaaaites, and planting their fathers in Cunun , made

& 1 men-'

mention ofin holy Scripture. Whence learn, I. The informa-tions which the Scripturedoih give us of Gods working for his people, isasfure, and fliould be fo looked upon by usj as it the people of God who lived in thedoyes when chelc works were done, and who were eyc-witnefles thereof, fliould alfo rife up from the dead ; when the Scriptures are read , and teftifie unto us, faying: Of thefc things we wcrccyc-witncjfcs, and we tell them unto you for uncjueftionable truths, for thus much do thefe words import; Wc* have beard with our cures, 0 Cjod , our fathers have told us what thou didfi in their dayes* z. The Scripture doth keep the declarations of Gods work and will fo fi efh and clean and pure from the mixture and fuperfluitie and imperfection of humane tradition that God will own it as his own proper teffimonie, when we bring it before him: Our earcs have heard. 0 God, what thou didfi in the times of old. 3. Gods eld works have new ufe in all ages, fcr the furtherance of Be-lcevcvs faith and patience and comfort; We have heard what thou didfi in times of old , fay the Saints now in trouble , and Standing in need of experience of the like works of God for them. 4* Albeit comparison of by-gone better times with ours \ doth augment grief and tentation atfirft} yet when they are well looked upon in their end and u(e, they ferve to comfort us, and confirme our faith.as here the perfecuted Kiiks ufe-making of the like condition of the Lords people before them doth teach us, 5. Although Families and Nations were rooted in a Land , like old Oakc-trcc, and were very long profeflours of it; yet God can drive them out of it, by whatinftrumentsfoever he pleafeth to do it 5 The work of vanquishing Nations , and fubduing of them , and calling out of them, is the Lords work : Thou didfi drive out the heathen with thy hand. And fo is the planting of a people in a land , or continuing families in fucceilion : Thou pLintedfl our fathers , and cafiedfi out tbcp.oplc. 6. The Lords part in a woik.is befl feen, when mans part and all that he , as an inftrunacnt hath done, or could have done in it, isalldeclared null 5 being con(idered as feparate horn God, who moved the in-ttruments, and did work by them what he pleafed : They got not the land in pofjcffion by their ownfword, &c. 7- The fountaine of all good which is done to, or by the Kirk , is the only meere favour of God, and his good plcafurc y That they are an incorporation, a Kirk planted, foftered D defended fo long , watered, ipared fo long , all is free favour; Neither did their own arme fwctbcm> but thy right handle, becaufc thou badfi a favour

•wttotbcm. 8. When G^dfheweth the light of his countenance I to a people or pcTon, he will alio fliew his power for them ; Thy ame and tie light of thy countenance , gave them the land inpof-fcffion. Thcfe two go together.

Verll 4 Thou a*t my King^ 0 Qod; command deliverance for Jacob.

Thefecond argument for confirmation of the Kirk , is • fiom the relation between. God and her; Thou art my Kjng^ O God : £TV- Whence learn, f. Trouble doth iri3ke Faith thiiily 3 and teachcth the Beleever to make u'e of his right and intereft, and reflations berweenG )d & him ; which other wife poffibly mighjt have lien idle in his coffer 5 yea, and Faith by Trouble is made wife, to chufe out the relation which fcrveth moft for its prefentufe; Thou art my (f*£, 0 (fod. %. Rebtions between God and his people do Hand conliant inadveriity, as well as in profperity. The godly in perfecution have God tor a King to come unto 3 from whom they may expect all the benefits which Subjects can expccl: from a potent King;.as here the Kirk faith to God 3 however thou thinkeft it ht to put us under the feet of perfecutcrs; yet Thou an my JSjng, 0 God. 3 YVhatfoever be the particular condition of any meinber of the Kirkj their prayer mould be put foith tor the whole body; fpecially when the perfecution is of the whole , Qmmand deliverance for Jacob. 4. It will coft the Lord but a word to deliver his people : Le r him give out order, and it mall be effected > The Kirk craveth no more, but Qorc-, " (cliverasce.

Ver. i. Through thee will we pftfr down our enemies* through thy Name mil we tread them under that rife Up againfi pu.

6. For I will not trxft in my boxve , neither JhMl my Jvrerdfave me.

7. 'Bm thoy hafl faved *u from oHr enemies, and hajl put them tofhame that hated m.

8. In God Vee boafi all'the day long j and fraife thy Name for ever, SeUh*

h-i

The third argument to confirme their faith , is the conscience of their fincerepurpofe, to give God the glory of inabling them unto all duties > whereunto he hath promifed to inable them. jVhemc kirn, i. The Believer may promife tohimfelf, whatsoever G.od hath promifed unto him 5 hath God prcmiCcd to give his own people the victory over their enemies, then the Be-leever may promife to himfclfhefhall overcome his perfecutors, and through Gods ftrength be more then a conquerour over them; Through thec will we pujh down cur enemies. Ifth&enemiemakc . head againft them after a defeat, the Beleevermay fay > Through thy Hume will we tread them under that rife up againft ut. 1. The lefTe confidence we have in our felvcs- or in any thing befidc God, the more evidence have wc of the lincerity o? our faith in God : for ImUnottrujl in my bowe y neither pull my [word five me. 3. It is a proof ofiincerity of faith, to give God as much credit for time to come, as he hath gained to himfelf, bv the evidencing of his truth in time by-gone • My fw-rd full not fave me : 'But thou haft laved ut , and therefore through thee will wepujlf down cur enemies. 4. Whofoever doth hate the Lords people , fhall be forced to think fhame of their enmity one day; Thou haft put them tojhame, that hated m, $. The glory which we give to God in profperitie, we fhould give him the fame in our adverfityj change of times and difpenfations mould not chans^ his glorymor our confidence in him ; Though the Kirk be under foot of men, the Kirks God is above all : In God/we boaft'all the daylong andpraife thy Name for ever,

Verf. 9. Bkt thou haft caft off, and put m to flame; and go eft not forth With our armies.

IO. Ihoumakeft m to turne back^from the enemy | and they Vehich hate m , fpoile for themf"elves\

11. Thou haft given m like fheep appointed for meat ; end hafi fcattered m among the heathen.

12. Thou fe He(i thy people for nought^ and doft not in-creafe thy wealth by their price*.

13. Thou makeft *u a reproach unto our neighbours , a fcorne and derifon to them that are round about us.

14. Thou makeft w a by-word among the heathen;

* Peking

l a Jbakififr of the Ijcsl! among the people.

15. My confufion i$ continually icfore ins 5 and the fiame of mj face hath cover came.

16. Tor the voice of him that icproachetb and blafphemetl) ; by reafcn of the enernie ] $nd a-venger.

Having thus fattened a rcfohr.ion to believe confhntly in Go4j the Pialmiil Liycth forth the lairraitabl: condition of the Kirk before Gxt, with the tentation which did afiauk his people in their foflferings. Whencelc.irn> i.Iccan fljndw; ftanf

love of G )d to his people , to put them to io bard escrcifes by variety of troubles; as lie mw icem not on! v to b e:ik off hi s h courfe of kindnetfe towards thero , but al/o :o call them off, and rurne again!}thvtn^ b fore judgeoieutron -hem 3 which

ordinarily do Ipeak unto humane lYpfe wracb and utter -wrath : Thou b.ijl cafl ojfh yea, and they may feem cUfappQinted of their hoped (01 protection and afiifhncc from G >s Thou baft put us to flume % and may lofe he^irt and hanfjwhentbey go to battell againft their enemies in a good caufe : Thou gocjl not forth with our armies,yyr{. 9. and be put to flight in baitelU, and-be made a tpoile l u! enemies: Thou m.i!{c i us turn

bxdi fro)/: our enemies , and rhej tiw hate us. fyjile for them/elves^ v. 10. and being deftitutc of humane help for recc vc:ie.nuy feeni to be left in the ham! of the encmic, to difpofe of them ( may feem) to his pleasure} Thou h.ifl given us lil{c fheep for mat. And albeit all Lcleevcrs'cannot be cut eft, yet we may lofe the face of a Kirk or Congregation : Thou luji [cMtcred u$ pnpng the Heathen 3 verf 11. and may be made underlings and flaves to oppreliors with no apparent advantage to the Lords r.y, but foejpmg Ic-'ic rather 5 Thoufcllcjl t/.y people for nought 9 anddoflnot hicrexfe thy Tpe&lib with their price> verf. 11. And may be deprived , not only of the. common curies ot humanity , which may be exipe&ed of neighbours 3 but alio be dilviair.ed by them ^ mocked and reproach :d by them : Thou mJ^efi us a re-prOuC:') to our neighbours , a (come and der'Sion to tl (zboutuSj verf. 13. And in a word, may be the m< it ,.e pi.eii

!>ebple: under heaven j which ?slt is the juft puiiilhrncnt c 1 : the candalous carriage of thevifaVc Kirk, v Go s

name to be reprcache.l among Idol iters and ?s jtjhe/harpcittiiall and tentadon of hj truly gcdiVth

*96 PSAL. XLIV.

be ; Tbou ma\e\l m a by-word among the heathen, a faking of the he id amongxhe people, verf. 14. Ltarnaljo, 2. As Gods prefence manifefted among his people , and for them in the fight of the world , makes them the mod famous > wife., contagious, prorpe-rous and blcfied people in the world : So when God being provoked by the wicked behaviour of his profeflcd people, Icaveth them, with-draweth his protection from them, will (hew himfelf angry at them j they become fcolifh and feeble fheep, a defpi-cable and difdained people above all ethers s We turne back from, the enemy.Tbou baft given us to JI)cep appointed for meat, a reproach, a fcorncy a by-word. 3. Wh.nfoever calamity cometh upon us, howfoever, and for what foe ver caufe , we may fafely take God for the worker of all our woe; albeit the meritorious caufe be in our felf 3 the inflicting of the calamity is of the Lord > for there is no trouble in the City which theJLord will not avcwhimlelf. to be the inflicier of 5 for here the Prophet ^uts all upon God , Tbou haji dqne it , five or fix times. 4. When the vifiple Khk hath d awn on miftrie on herielf , and C od hath inflicted calamities juftly on her; it is fafer to go to God, and lay before him all his work of juftice , and the mifery which lieth on us , then to keep it within our breads, or tell it cf him to others; He that hath wounded us, is only able to heal us, fo do*h this example teach us to do. 5 When the vifible Kirk is vifited with lad calamities, the true members thereof are partakers of rhe trouble and for row and (name of that condition : My confufion is continually before mc 3 faith the Pfalmift. 6.It is not very loon that the Kirk is delivered out of her trouble,' when once (he falleth in it, there is a time wherein it is continued : xMy confufion is continually before me , and thefhame of my face bath covered me, vcri. 1 f. 7. When the encmie doth reproach Religion and righteoufneiTe, becaufe of the calamity of the godly; the more is fpeken or Gods refpeft to the godly, and their caufe , the more the enemie re-proacheth and putteth the godly to (hame > and fo ( while Gods difpenfation feemcth to fpeak the contrary ) it feemeth to be but their own confufion for the godly to fpeak of God , or godli-neflc and righteoufneffc of their caufe. This is a fad cafe , The fhame of my face bath covered me , for the voice of him that re-froaebctb, and blafpbemetb , by rcafon of the enemie and the avenger, verf 16 .

Verf. 17- All this is come upon us> yet have rve not forgotten thee : neither have ype dealt faljly in thy Covenant.

18. Our heart is not turned backj. neither have our ft eps declined from thy way.

19. Though thou haft fore broken us in the place of dragons j and covered m with the Jbadow of death.

20. If VY* have forgotten the Name of cur God, or ftretched out our hands to a ftrangc go&:

21. Shall not God fear ch this out? for he kyoweth the fecrets of the heart.

22. Yea> for thy fak* are Vce \(illtk all the day long : we art counted 06 fhecpfor the flaughter.

In the third place , the godly dolprofeffe for all that i* faid their fledfaitnilie in the profeffion of their faith for which they were persecuted. Whence learn, 1. It is the dutie of the Lords people 3 whatfoever trouble or perfecution they (hall fall into 3 to befledfaft in the profeflion of rhe true Religion , and in every point of comroveited truth : All this U come upon us,yet bavewenot forgotten thee. 2. As the maintaining of controverted truth muft flow from faith in Cod , and love to him, entertaining the affectionate remembrance of Gods kindneile, whatfoever change of difpenfation they mall feel: So the paf-fingfrom a point of truth in time of trouble , is a forgetting of God, who is but hiding himfelf for a while, till the trial be perfected 5 Therefore fay the faithful, All this is come upon us, yet have we not forgotten thee: $. As the Lord hath been plealed to enter into Covenant with his Kirk and to make the Covenant afanctifiedmeans for keeping his people more iled.aft in their dutie: So mould his people make confcier.ee of keeping Cove-r.surnvdc with God , and of remaining fh.dfaft in the maintenance ot every duty whereunto they it nd bound therein , that when they give accompt thereof ■, they may fay with comfort, JVc hr.e not dealt fdjly in thy Covenant. 4. Covenants which people do make for adhering to the true Religion , and to morall dueties commanded in Gods word , are not of the nature of humane

mane Covenants, wherein man and man arethepmies, and God only judge and witnefle; but are fuch Covenants as God is alfo a party therein 3 to whom a people is.fo much the more engaged, as they are tworn to keep his Law, and therefore fuch Covenants are called Gods Covenant : We have not dealt falJJy in thy Covenant. $. No excufe from hazard of trouble 3 or perr-fecution can guard the conference, toihiftor paife from the Covenant of God: Nothing can make us give a comfortable ac-compt of our carriage in relation to the Covenant 5 fave upright and ftreight dealing before God ; We have not fault faljly inthy Covenant, verf. 7. 6. The Lord can procure more honour to himfelf in the time of the perfecution of his fcattered people by theconftancy of his Martyrs , and fufYering Saints in their o-pen profeffion and maintenance or his truth before their perfe-cutors, then when the viiible Kirk lived in profperity 5 and fcand.alized their neighbours by their ill behiviour , as this experience of fcattered I/r<zd maketh evident. 7. A good confeience doth much fweeten affi i&icn in the time of trial, as here appeared. 8. It is neceffary for making a man conftant in the outward profeffion of truth in the time of perfecution, that his heart be cftablirtied by grace, that his heart be fixed/ milling in the Lords Thefe mall be borne through 5 who may fay , Our heart is not turned back. 9* Itisneceflary to'watch over our feveraltafti-ons y left by little and little in particular paflages we be drawn aflde from our walking with a ftreight foot toward the Gofpel; and left the heart beuollenaway by little and little from the truth 5 therefore thefe two muft be joyned together in our enclea- N vour : That neither our heart be turned back. •> neither our fteps decline from the Lords rvay 3 verf. 18. 10, Albeit the Lord for perfecting the full triall of the faith of his people mould put them in the power of molt cruel Tyrants, and in daily danger of lofina their life , yet mould they choofe to fufter all extremity of torments 5 and death it felf , rather then to depart from the truth; for fo did the Lords approved witnefks befoie us: Though God did break them fore in the place of Dragons, and cover them with the jhaiow of dcatb>v. 13. 11.In the time of uxlcortcerningReligion, two forts of (ins are to be efchewed. The one is the palling from any point of the truth of Dodrine or divine Ordinances; The other is the pra&ifing ofany point of falfe worfhip of another initituti-on^then what is the Lords; Whether under pretence of offering ic to the true God 3 or with profeffion unto another god for bjth thefe are to.be cfchew.cdjbecaufe the firjt fort pjffin is a iorgetting of the

name

\ name of God : The other is, a flretcbing out of cur hands to a ftrangegod. 12. The Lord who leave hull heart 3 will make fpeciall fearch fcr corrupters of Religion , and depravers of divine Doctrine, worfhip or ordinal* of idclat: y 3 whatfoever excufes or pretences be ufed for the louring or covering of the fame :' if'we hive forgotten the nams of our Cjoi , orftretcbed out our hauls to mother god > fhali Godfcurchthis out ? 20. z$. In time of perfecution tor Religion > nothing can counterbalance th„ terrours ana allurements of" the perfecutors , and make a man fteJfnlt in the caufe of God > fave the fear of God. and love to God fetled in the heart; For thereafon of the Saints ftcdfaitneUe in this Pfalmeii, hecauje God would h.uc (arched out their finnc, if they had done other-waves ; for he l^noweth the fecreis 0 the hearts , v. ir. 14.Such as refolve to beare out the profefllon of the truth , muft refolve to give their life for the maintenance of it: Wc are hjlled all the day long, 15. It is ordinary for the world to hue the fervants of God, and true Saints, more for their faithfulneffe to God , and uprightneffe in his fervice 3 then for any other came 5 For thy fafe are we filled. 16. It is mercy to uSj that when God might punifh us for our (innes 3 he doth make our correction honourable, and our troubles to be for a good caufe; For thy folic arc wc v kr 17. Although all the houres of the day the re fecutors were taking and killing iome of our Brethren y the Saints for

x their faith in God, and fidelity in his fervice; yet thai mult not divert the'reft from following of the truth . and profefling of true Religion 5 How long foevet the Lord continue the persecution and our trouble j for his caufe wc fhould refolve cenftantly to endure to the end; Tea, for thy caufe arc we hJUcd all the day long, wi. li.

Verfc 23. Atoake^yvhjfteepeft thou } 0 Lord? trifc c aft u$ not off for ever.

34. Wherefore hide ft thou ih-j face ? and for net teft our afflitlion, and our oppyejfton?

25. For our foul 14 bofted down to the dafi; out belly cleaveth unto the earth.

26. A rife for our help ', andredeem mfor tip) mtr-ciesfakf.

U

In the laft part of the Pfalme, the Pfalmift in behalf of the Kirk doth pray to be delivered from the cruelty of persecutors; and being in bitrernetle of fpirit for anguifh and grief! doth vent his prefent fenfe of Gods dilpenfat ion, yet corrected by faith. Whence icxm y I. Albeit the Lord who watcheth over IfraclbQ moft vigibnt for every one of his children, and never flumber-eth norfleepeth, but is ftill upon his work , his glorious work of preparing his jewels for eternal life > whenheputteth his people in the furnace of affliction by hotttft perfecution, for then in fpcciall he is about to glorifie himfelf and his Saints alio in the trLdl or their precious faith , and is bringing to the view of men and Angels, that he hath a people who do love him better then their own lives , and who will endure any mifcry rather then deny any point of his truth committed unto them; yet fuch is the ftrenetfi of natural fenfes and affections, fuch is the partiality of felt-love in carnal difputation about Gods providence , when he putteth his people to fo fad fufterings for no fault done to their perfecutors 5 and iuch is the power of Satans testations, helped on by humane infirmity, and perturbation of paflions, that God is looked on as if he rnifregarded the cafe of his own people, and took no more care of them then a deeping man doth ofhisbufi-neffe, and this is imported in thisexpreilion; Avox\e , rvby Jleepeft thou, O Lord ? 2. Faith doth not allow nor fubferibe unto carnali fenfe, but inprefenting the objections thereof unto God , dcth really refute them. Firft, in that by prayer it go-eth to God , who is the hearer of the moft fecret fighes offuppli-cants, at whatfoever time, night or day, or in whatfeever phce opened up unto him. Secondly, by intreating him to refute the {lander and calumnie which carnal fenfe, and fuggeited tentations did put upon him , Avox\e y arife ; that is, let it be feen by the manitfting of thy juftice and mercy , as thou ufeft to do by thy open working for us, that thou tgkeft no.ice of our fufrerings,and of our perfecutors violence. Thirdly, by avowing that fuch mifrcgarding of his own caufe and lervants , as fenfe and tentati-on did vent, is inconfiitent with his nature, Covenant, Promifes, and practices towards his people ; (nr 3 lVhy-Jlecpcftthou y isss much as it is not poflible that thou llccpeft > and why here is nota word of quarrelling , but a word of denying, that any rea-fon can te given for fuch a thought, as God Jleepetb. Fourthly., by avowing faith and hope of Gcdmanifefting himfelf indue time, for deciding of the controvcrlic between them and their pci -fecutcrsj for what he prayeth for, bebelievethtoobtaine. r4is

prayer

; prayer being according to the revealed will cfGod > and Awfe, \ whyflecpcftlhott, OLorl, is as much as Ibeleeve, Lord, that thou wilt indeed let us and the world fee that thou art not deeping in all this our hard fufterings for thy fake , and therefore I pray thee (hew thy felf early. $. As tcma^ion, if it cannot fallen upon us any thought of Gods careleflc mi Regarding of us in our fad (uffeings; yet will it fuggeit fufpicionsof Gods wrath, indignation, hatred, rejection, and reprobation of us 5 So faith will ftudy to difpcll this mill:, and quench this fiery dart by prayer alfo j Cuft v* not offor ever , giving affurance, that albeit there were wrath in their exerciie,yet it {hall be but for a {hort time, and fhallnotheperpetuail. 4. As tentntion , if it cannot fatten upon us fafpition cf Gods hatred of us, and of his purpcle to caft us off for ever ; yet it v\ill fug^eft that God is purfuing us for fome imne which we know not of, that he is wroth with us in fufterincr periecutors to prevails and to oppreflc us, (when in the meanc-time he is gloriiying himfelf, and his truth in us , edifying others by our conitancie in fuch a point of truth , and by our patience in bearing the croffe, to the ^advantage both of the pre-fent age andpofterity:) So faith muft ftudie to difpcl this mift alio, and to quench this fiery dart as well as the former by rejecting this to be the caufe 5 for it is no token of Godspurfuing (in in wroth , when God giveth us grace ; not only to believe in him> but alio to fuffer for his N imes fake, and the Goi'pels ; When hemakcth us to be his publick Martyrs and wirncfles-for his truth, feme in one degree ot Matyrdome , fome in another y When he maketh the fpirit of gloiy, and of God to reft upon us, and io-bleflfeth us, that when on rhe perfecutors part he is evil fpoken of, he is on our part glorified. This (I lay) is no token of wrath, no token of purfuing us for our finnes. Therefore aloeit fenfe call this a hiding of his face , yet faith will no: admit thefe caufes which might import wrath: For, Wherefore bidtfl thou thy face ? is in the teimes of faith , as much as albeit it be true that we have finned, and tboufeemeftto bide thy f ice', Yet I cannot admit this thought that this his dealing with us is in wrath}! fee no-rcafon whyl fliould expound thy difpenfation fo ; yea, the very queftion wherefor e,impovu:ih that the Pfalmift cannot con-defend upon any fuggefted reafon of this fort, to prove the hiding of Gods face, as fenfe would fay , and therefore that he expe&eth the Lord will fhew forth tokens of his love and good will to them in due time. 5. As when thefe tentations are refuted by faith, long-lafting trouble meeting witkintume flefli > doth hold up

the

the complaint:, poor fraile man , . not being able to endure trouble long, weak nature is ready to think that it is forgotten or laid afidc , and ilriketh ftill upon its own firing of lamentation, whatfoever faith doth fpeak to the contrary , whether it have region or not y So faith mull do its office, and that is when it cannot Hop complaining , it muft lay forth before God rn prayer the lamenter, and his lamentation to tinde piety; IVby forgettcft thou cur affliction, and our opp report? 6. All the reafcm that a poor perfecuted and afflicted perfon can bring from himfelf, to plead pitty wbenhelamentceh his cafe to the Lord , is his ownweak-neffc, emptineiie , low condition, near drawing to difcourage-ment, tainting and dying ; For, Our foul is bowed down to the duft. 7. The godly fouf under periecution, refolveth never to yield to the will of the perfecutors, ncr quit the Lords caufc , but to lie (upplicaat at Gods feet from day to day, and there to die > if it be his will to delay or deny outward relief. Thus much the geftureof t/iefupplicantfpeaks; Our belly clcavctb to the earth, 8, Though the B:leever do rinde no reafon in himfelt of his prayer for relief yet he findeth reafons fufficientto give him hope in God > Asfirft, The Lords Sovereigne power and place to help fuch weak creatures as come to him in their need > Arife for cur help, arife a help for us:. Secondly, the office of a Redeemer, wherewith he cloathed himfelt in the Meffiah Chrift Je-fus; in the paction of whoCe redemption, and payment of the price of it, and begun and perfected accomplishment of it, every B:leever hath undoubted intereft and right unto all particular deliveries out or all ftraits , as branches , and appendices of the great Redemption of their foules unto eternall life. And this is hinted at in thefe words; Arife for our help, and redeem us. Thirdly, the purchafed, promifed,arid conftantly running forth, and offered mercy of God to Beleevers , which lcofeth all objections and doubts ai ifing from our fins, unworthineile,and itl-de-ferving; For, (Redeem us for thy mercies f(ik&) impbrtethfo inuch.

PSAL,

P S AL. XLV.

To the chief ZMuficiun upon Shofhannim , for the fonnes of Korah 3 Maichil: a fong of loves*

Laying afide what ufeth to be fpoken here of Solomons marrying of Pharaohs daughter, and of fome typicall things therein, (tending to the extenuation of Solomons fault) as conje-ftural, and ferving nothing to the advantage of that marriage, prefuppofe the conjecture did hold, both concerning the occafion, and alfo what might feem typical in it, becaufe firni-litudes taken from, and types made of what thing foever God pleafeth, do ferve to make clear what the Spirit will have taken up about Chrifl, or about any fpirituall antitype; buc doth not ferve to make clear the thing re* fembled by the antitype, as by the type of Agar , and of the brazen Serpent, and of fonas his punifhrtient, and fundry other fimilitudes and parables fet down in Scripture doth apear: But we are fure this Pfalme is a fong, de-fcribingjthe myftical marriage of the MeffiahCfjrifi Jeftu our Lord, and his Kirk , wherein Chrifl the Bridegroome is. praifed , verf. 1,2,3,4, 5, 6; 7, 8, 9* And the Kirk his Spoufe is intruded in her duty to him, verf. 10, 11,12, 13,14,15. And the end of the fong declared to be the everlafting praife of CHRIST,

Con-

Concerning the Infcriprion, that this Pfalme is altogether fpiritualand holy appeareth > Firftbythis, That it is directed to the publick Minifter of Gods worfhip , to be ma,de publicklyufeof in Gods publick praifes. To the chief Muficun, for thefonncs 0/Korah. Secondly, it is intituled Mafchil> a Ion? togiveinftructiontothcKirkot God , concerning the Majefty and g^aceof-'theKingdome of Chrift, and the duty of the Kirk, and the fphitual bleiTings of the Belee vers. Thirdly, it is a part of divine Scripture , ranked among the holy Pfalmes, and acknowledged by the Kirk of the Old Teftamcnr for fuch.Fourthly, the teftimony of the Apoftle, applying it directly as the word and fpeech of the Father to the Sonne of God, (Thrift Jefus, licb. 1. 8 ; Fifthly, the matter and words of the Pfalme, which cannot be verified in any perfon fave in Jefus Chrift alone. Sixthly, the plurality of ioves here fpoken of to fhew unto the Reader the excellencie of the love of Chrift, or the love cfGocl to us in Chrift Jefus 3 wherein the perfection of all loves that ever was heard tell of, isfurpafledj It is afongoflovcs.

Verf. i.'K Ik Y.heart is enduing of a gooA matter ; JLVl / fpeak. of the things which I have made touching the King: my tongue is the peri of a readj Writer.

THis Verfe is a commendation given to this fong by the Spirit; of God, by Way of Preface* 1. It is a good matter. 2. Itisinfpired; The Spirit of the Lord making the heart filled with his preience, to be boiling in the enditingof it. 3. It is of Chrift the King. 4. It is the Poem of the infpired Prophet , made ready to expreffe what h furnifhed by the Spirit, for the edification of the Kirk in all ages. Whence learn, 1. The knowledge of the loveof Chrift to his Church, and of his e-fpoufing of her , is the fweeteft fubjeft 3 the matter of the mofi glad tydings that ever finners did hear of , and worthy indeed to be called a good matter. 2, The heart acquainted with this fweet and Caving knowledge , will be more reaiy to communicate what itknoweth, thenabletoexprefleit fclf;- for the heart will be as a fpring-well, or a boiling pot, according to the meafure of the Lords prefence in it. 3. The thcam of the praifes of the believing foul is Chriftsperfony cloathed with offices for thefalvatiori $f fouler. The mainefubjeft of this fong is touching the King*

jr. When

4. When the heart is full of gracious afteftion, the tongue will be loofed to praife Go.i, Co as others may be edific.l : out of the a-bundanceof the heart, Jthc mouth will fpeak heartily, ZM} tongue^ faith he, is the pen ofd ready mixer,

Vcrfe 2." Thou art fairer then the children of men : : grace U poured into thy lips i therefore God hdth blejfed thee for ever.

3. Gird thy ftoord upon thy thigh ^ O moft mighty t frith thy glory, and thy majefty.

4. And in thy majefly *ideprof per oufty , becaufeof truth, anbmeeknefs^ and right eoufnefs : and thy right hand {hall teach thee terrible things.

5. Thine arrows are Jharpe in the heart of the Kings enemies $ Whereby the people fall under thee.

6. Thy throne (0 God) is for ever and ever : the fcepter of thy kingdome i% a right fcepter.

J* Thou love ft righteoufnefs , and hate ft Vbickgdnefs : therefore God, thy (fod s hath anointed thee tyith tf:i oile ofgladnefs above thy fetlo^s.

8. Al' thy garments frtiell of 'myrrhe and aloes y arid cajfia : out of the ivotj palaces^ where b]/ the) have made thee gad.

p. Kings daughters were among thy honourable we* men : upon thy right hand did ft and the J^jet n in gold cfOphir.

In the defcriptiori of the excellency of Chrift, the very trae Son of God, there are fee down fundrv points of ^lc-ry. The firft is, no beauty amon? m?n comparableto the beauty of Chrift, who i$ not only the faireft of ten thoufand for wifdorae and hcli* nefs, and wh tfriever Vertuecrn bt named, as he is man i buc alfo as he is God, he is the refpUn encvof .hie Fathers glory, the holyOieot Ifaelj of Wbofe^Iory the <vhole earth 15 full, by whotc beautiful righteoufn-efs and power the deformity of fin an<t mifery of his own is taken away in part, and (hall be removed fally i therefore juitly is it faid of him, Tbou artftirer tjiei wi

children of men. i. Chnil by the dotfrinc which he delive*eth# is able not only to difcover fin and mifery, an4 the true way oi delivery from the fame by grace, and to dired a man in the way offaivation by grace, but alfo gracioufly and powerfully to per-fwade a man to embrace it, Grace is poured into thy lips. 3 .Chrift as man is furnimed abundantly and above meafure, for communicating of the bkfling unto his hearers invincibly and infallibly, and for making his Dodrine effectually powerful to falvation to whom foe vcr he will; for, Therefore (or to tbkpurpofe) God hath bleftcAhim for ever. 4. Chrift is furnimed to fubdue and conquer and bring in fo many as he pleafeth under fubjeftion unto his Kingdome; he hath his fword even the rod of his mouth, his ivord which is (harper then any two-edged fword which no man can withftand. 5. He goethnot abroad to conquer or fubdue without this his fword, which is his word; it is alwayes with him ready to be drawn forth , and to be thruft in the foul and conscience of the hearer, with whom he mindeth to deal, hU fword is girded upon his thigh. 6. Chrift is Almighty,and fo able to make good all that he fpeaketh, and to make his word of precept, pro-mife and threatning effe&ual unto the errand for which it is fent, Hcismofl mighty. 7. Where he is pleafed to open his word, and to difcover himfelf what he is, they that fat in darknefs dafee a great light of his own glory as God , a mining light, a glorious light, making open the deep counfelof God, and myftery of mens ialvation, Gird thy fword upon thy thigb>0 moft mighty,mtb thy glory. $. Where he pleafeth to (hew himlelf, there the ftate-linefs of a mighty Monarch is teen, the fovereignty of the ruler of heaven and earth is feen, able to ihake the heart with fear, and aw of his grearnefs, with his glory there is majefiy or (lately magnificence. 9. The wheels of Chrifts Chariot, whereupon he rideth when he goeth to conquer and fubdue new converts to his Kin^dome at euttajefty, truth, mecfyicfssigbteoufrcfs, manifeft* ed in the preaching oi his GotpeliMajcfty, when the (lately magnificence of hrspe^fon and offices is declarer 5 Truth > when th« certainty of all that he teacheth in Scripture is known* &feefacjs 9 wheahis grace and mercy is offered to rebels; and Rigbteoufhcfs, when juftificatfon by faith in his name, is clearly let forth. 10. Chrift goeth no voyage in vain, he cometh notfliort of hi» intent and purpofe, but doth the work for which he cometh, preiching the Gofpel, In his majefiy , truth, meefciefs, and rigbteoujnejs beridcthprofperoujly. 11. Chrift can do what he wjllj he can do terrible things to majke his enemies- tremble* and

Bit

: iis friends reverence him with holy feat, having ornnipotency in him to work by, as ready as a man hath his right hand to employ j let him but will to have any thing done, and it mall be done; be.harh not long toadvife what he is able todo,as men con-fult with their :bility, whether they be fo powerful as to effc& what they intend, or would have done, Thy right band fhM teach ibec terrible things. 12. Albeit he ncedcth no admonition to do what he is doing or will do^ yet loveth he to have his children furthering the advancement of his Kingdom,(hewing unto him what they would have done,& praying unto him that his Kingdom may inore & more corners this form of fpeech endited by the holySpi-rit doth import JGird thy fmrdjidc thou profperoujly ,&c.i$.Chrift in his conqueft is to meet with his enemies, of whom feme will o penlyoppole him, fome will feignedly profefs fubjection , but will not heartily fubmit themftlves unto him , bat ftand aloof and at a diftance, being fai from him in their hearts, when with their lips they draw ncer-hand unto him 3 both thefe are here called the lyings enemies. 14. Such as do not draw r.eer unto him in their heart, he can and will fend mcfTengcrs of wrath unto their heart, tbreatenings which (hall be executed, terrors which lhall be followed with judgements, and judgements which (halt end in their deftru&ion, iudden and unexpected; how many or how ftrong foever they feem to be, they (hall no: ftand before hirn> nor be able to hinder his con-quell, Thine arrows are fkarp in the j heart of the lyings enemies, whereby the people fall under thee. 1 5; ] Chiift Jcfu the promifedMeffiah was revealed to the Kirk of j Ifrael, to be the very true eternal God,that their faith and ours migb have fatisfac"tion, and a folid ground to reft upon, in the all-fufficieney and infinite worthinefs of the promifed Redeemer, as the Apcftle,Hc#. 1. 8. confiimeth unto us > citing to thi^ purpofe this very text, Thy throne , 0 God Js for ever and ever. 16. Chriftihall not want a Kirk from generation to generation^ let pe;fecutors do their waift, he (hall reign as King, and fit on his throne in his Kirk, giving forth his laws and executing them, oppofe him who will, Thy throne, OGod, is for ever and ever, 1? The Scepter of ChrifU Kingdom, which is the Goipel or thet word cf Ood in Scripture, whereby he gathereth hfc fubje&s and ruleth them, and the manner cf his governing his pecple by the rules of his Law ami difcipline,is moft juft-and equitable,a righteous fcepter, wheieby the Objects m-iy be inftiucted in all righ* teoufnefs,and may bejuftified and made righteous; The fcrftcr tftby Kingdoms is a right fcepter % 18, The holinefs and righ-X % teoufcefe

ccoufnefs of Jefus Chrift, both as he is God, and as he is God incarnate, is fo efiential to his perfon and employment , that his mle of. government and adminiftration of his aftaires in his kingdome cannot be but right, as for direction , foaho for re -wards to them who obey his direction and punifhments o. the difobedients , 1'bou lovefi rigbteonfnefs , and 'hatefl iniquity* 19. As Chrift is very Gou/o is he very man in Ml things (except fin) like unto uswhomhe calleth, Pp/. ii. 12. and Hcb 2,12. his bretbren^nd here his/Htox,iharemen and partakers of all that is given unto him,and joync-heirs with him, #001.8.17. and by reafon of making Covenant in our name with the Fatherland by affuming of our nature according to the tenor of the Covenant, Godbecometh his God and our God, and he in our name as man, receiveth the gifts of the holy Spirit without meafure, for fitting him as he is man to rmnage his Kingdom in righteoufnefs etk-ctuallyjfor it is faid,Therefore, or to that intent, Cjod> iby (jo£ bub anointed tbee -with the oil of gladnefs. 20. The gifts and graces of the holy Spirit fpoken of here in the terms of oil, (employed fcr figuring mens furniftiing unto their calling, and enabling of Kings and Priefts unto their offices,and employed alio in the entertainment of honourable guefts invited to a feaft) are lo beftovved on believers, jGym-heirs with Chrift, as Chrift is not degraded frorrftiis fovereignty by his partners exaltation, for of ; Chrift it is faid, Thy God bath anointed tbee with the oile of ghdnefs above thy fellows. 24. As the attendants of great persons are refreshed by the fmell of their ointments and perfumed garments : foarc Lhrifts attendants refreshed with the confola-tion of Chrifts Spirit perfuming all his outward ordinances, wherein as in his garments he doth mew forth himiclf to his Kirk more comfortably, then any perfume cr odo iferous fpice can fee forth , All t y. garments fmell of mytrhc and aloes and caffiab. Z2* Nor only the heavens where God flieweth forth his gloiy to fouls of juft men made perfect, but alio all the places where his honour dwelleth, all the meetings of his Church where he iheweihhimfelfin his ordinances to a Lpiriiual eye, are all ot them moft glorious and (lately palaces; for there is the Temple of the Holy Ghoft, and there is the beauty of holinefs, whence doth come forth the fmell of his graces in his ordinances, as out oflvo-ryp.ilaccs. 2$. It is favour y and well-pleating to Chrift, when his people find pleafure in him, and arc refrefhed by hisblefling. upon the publik ordinances 5 (oY,Thercby they hate made thccglad, iai.h the Pialmift :o Chrift. 24. Albeit the Catholick Kirk con-

lifting

(lftingof true converts or real Saints, be but one and the only true Spoule of Chrift, yet particular vitible Kirks confiding of Saints by calling, by obligation, and by profeffion, and common cftima -tion of r hcir own or others ; fome of them 6eing 'true Saints indeed in the Spirit- fome of them but counterfeits, and Saints in the letter only, are in number many,as they are difperfed for time and place, wherein they do live, and do mike up fundi y incorporations and Eccleuaftick confociaticn^ in Pari flies, Towns, Countries and Kingdomes, as the Lend giveth them occnfion, opportunity or poflibility to mske ufc oneo£ another for communion of Saints; in this refpeft(I fay ) they are many,and therefore the true Spoufe,the true Kiik confiding of true converts fwhofe praife is of God, to whom only they are certainly known, and not of men^ being but one is-compared to the Queen, but tlie particular Kirks, whofe collections and confociations is knewn to men, being many, are compared to Ladies of Honour which 'fcrve the Qjeen 5 of this fort it is here propheHed, that the moil renowned Cities, Countries, Provinces., and Kingdomes lhould be profefl'ed attendants of Chiift the bridegrooms honour, and. proftfled fervants of his Kirk, and promoters of the honour, eftate, and welfare o f his Spoufe j f&ngs daughters among thy honourable women. 1$. Albeit our Lord will allow a place of honour and room in his own court unto vilible Kirks in their fev.e^ ral confociations greater and fmaller, for that fervire which thty may do in order to the gathering in of theEleit into the inner court ofneereft fpirituaj communion with him, yet it is the uni -verfal invifible Kirk which he counted his Spoufej (lie is. the Queen who hath accefs unto him to be in higheft honoui befiue him, Upon thy right band did ft and the ^ueen. z6. As the whole foriety oftrue Saints rerently attend the will of the Lord, that every one of them in their place may honor the Lord.ho are they all highly honoured of the Lord, and adorned with whnfoever may m ke 'hem glorious; for the ornaments put en by Chiift, fuch as ae adoption, justification, fanftification/with all other relations 5 tending to their felicity,are here compared to the Eneft Gold; The t^ueen dotbftand at bit rilbfbaud in gold ofOpbir.

Verfe IO. Hearken (0 d.trtghttr) and confides, and encline thine ear ; forget alfo thine o^npeofL^ and thy father J hottje.

ii. So fall the King greatly deftre thy beamy, for he it thy Lord^ and voorfhtf thou him.

12. *And the daughter of lyre (hall be there yoith a gift , even the rich among the people {hall entreat thjfavovr.

13. The Kings daughter is all glorious mthin 5 her clothing is of wrought gold.

14. She fhsill be brought unto the King in raiment of ^etdk*vPor\ : the virgins her companions\that folloV) her 9 (hall be brought unto thee.

1 jjfj With gladnefs andrejojeing/hallthey be brought; theyffkall enter into the Kings palace.

This isthe other part, of the Pfalme wherein the Spirit of the Lord fpeaketh to the true Kirk militant, and direcleth her in her duty, and encourageth her by fundry inducements to follow the Lords direction. Whence learn, 1. As becaufe there is fpiri-tual love and refpeft' between God and his Kirk, therefore the Covenant and the spiritual communion between Chuift and hisJCirk is compared to a marriage : So becaufe the derivation of airfpiri-tual life, grace and motion which the Kirk hath,is from God, and dependeth on him; Therefore the Kirk is compared to a daughter, 'Hexrken 3 0 daughter, and ver. if, fhe is called the K^g* daughter. 2. The way and order of bringing the Kirk to her duty, is by hec hearing of his word,contidera:ion of what is taught, and fubjefti-on ofherfpirkto the obeaience of faith ; Hearken, 0 daughter, Kid confider^and cnciine thine ear. $. Becaufe even the true members of the Ki k, whoxpraifeis not of men but of God, are in this life intangled in affeftions to their old waves and corruption of manners; Therefore every one hath need to renounce and forget more and more their old lufts and enticements of the world* which is a very true fruit, and neceflary evidience of their hearing in faith, Forget alfo (faith he) thine own people, and thy fathers houfe. 4. The more we renounce and abandon our luft&and finful inclination in obedience to God, the more are we beautified with holinefs , and are acceptable to God in our endeavours, Forfa^e thy fathers houfe, {ojhallthcl^ing greatly defire thy beauty, ?• Chrift hath all right unto our fervice,and by creation, re-jdemption^ and covenant we are absolutely bound to ferve and

honour

•

fionowrhJm in all things: He is thy Lord, and worfoip thou him. 6. WhenthcKirk honoureth (Thrift he will honour her, and make the noble and potent in the.world fubmit themfelves to her, and feek communion with her, and toefteem the meaneft trnc member of the Kirk, more blefled then riches or honour can make any man: The daughter of Tyre fiall be there with a gift : The rich among the people foall entreat thy favour. 7. The glory of the true Kirk, and of every true member thereof is in things fpi-ritual, not difcernable by theuptaking of the natural man; for what is ©utwardly profetfed, is inwardly ftudied unto in (inceri-ty by thcra who worfhip God in fpirit and in truth; and the graces wherewith me is adorned, as knowledge, faith, love, hope, zeal, courage, fobriety, patience, are not the object of outward beholders, butmofl beautiful in the eyes of a fpiritual difcerner, and in the eyes-of him that fees in fecretrTta lyings daughter is all glorious within. 8. Whatfoever inherent graces the Saints have, and how beautiful foever they be, yet they have need of a garment "which may hide their imperfections, and beautifie them before God j to wit, the imputed righteoufnefs of Chrift, the Husband of the Kirk, who only hath this garment 10 fell, Rev. 5.18. and though it be bought without money and without price, yet it U very rich> for whatfoever ekher nature or art can furnifh to fet it forth, is but a fhadowing fimilitude of it, Her cloxthi?ig is of wrought gold. 9 . Though the marriage of Chiift and his Kiik be bound up , and the hand-faftning bepaft, and tokens of love be given to the Bride; yet the full folemnity of the compleat marriage is delayed till a fet time, that the particular members and the whole Kirk be perfected. The time of the brides being brought to a conftant habitation with Chrift, is at the Lords appointed time 5 to wit, at the death of every particular Saint, and of the whole Kirk together at the day of our Lords fecond coming; the day is coming, wherein foe foatl be brought unto the K? n g* 10. Albeit now there be many imperfections in the Saints,which Chrifts imputed righteouCnefs doth hide, yet in the day of the Kirks bein^ brought to the prefencc of God to be with him for ever ', flie (hall have no imperfection,lpot or wrinkle, or want of any thing which may perfect her glory in ail r^fpects^ (he (hail put on immortality and incorruption, and her very body of flefh (hall be made conformable to the glorious body of our Lord Jefus, She jhallbe brought unto the %ing in raiment of needle-work*: wl erein the height of artifice and ot natures materials are joyned as the fiucft iimilitude which can exprels this uriexpreflible glory.

X 4 ijfTta

|Z2 PSAL. XLV.

xi. The fame mall be<the glorious ftate of particular Saints, and particular Congregations, which {hall be of the whole Kirk uni-yerfal s whereof as every true Congregation and particular Saint therein is a part 3 and have contributed their fervice in their time to the good of the whole Kirk 3 as handmaids to the Mifiris: fp ihail they (hare in the glorious reward j The virgins 3 her companions fall be brought unto tbee, fo faith the Pftlmift unto Chrift. 12. Great (hall be the joy of men 3ind angels in the general meeting of the whole Kirk/ all being gathered together by the angels, who have liyed from the beginning of the world to the ending th rcof, and all received in the fellowftiip of God in blefledneis io endure for zsexjVhb gladnefs and re joy ring fid they be brought, tbey Jhatt enter into the Icings palace.

Vcrfc 16* In ftead of thy fathers fhall be thy children f whom thou may eft make princes in all the earth.

17. / will m*kf thy name to be remembred in all generations : therefore fhaH the people pr^ife thee for ever and ever.

The two laft verfes may be applied both to the Bride the pruc militant Kirk, and to the Bridcgroome Chrift Jefus, the King of Saints. As it is appliea to the Kirk* Learn, 1. The Saints have no ground of gloriation in their progenitors according to the*flcfh, of whom they draw nothing but what is polluted with fin 5 but all the glory of the Kirk is rather in her children which (he bringeth forth by the Oofpel unto God, Inftead of thy fathers [ball be thy children. 2. What any member 01* the Kirk feemeth to lofe in the world by for faking thereof and coming to Chrift, it is made up to them by Chrift in fpiritual refpefts, if hot alfoin temporal bleffings when God Teeth fit, In ftead of thy fathers Jhatt be thy children 3. The true children of the Kiik are indeed the ex% ellent ones of the earth, and princes indeed, where-ever they live, in cemparifon of all other men who are but the beaft'y ihves of Satan: thy children are princes in all the earth'. 4. The true Kirk fhall be honourable, arid honoured by her kindly children in all generations,becaufe of the cremation which God putieth uponherin hisholy Scripture: J will ma\e r thyname to be remembred in all generations: Therefore the people Jhall praifs the.

Thefe

PSAL. XLV. }ii

Thefe ve fes may alfo be applied mere pertinently to the bride* groonu Oh. ift Jefus,for whofe praife the whole Pfalme is compo-fed,i'er/. i. Of whom only the words can be verified fully, is o ey capable of what is ascribed dire&ly to the pet fonfpoken unto here, and cannet be well afcribedto Solomon and c Fbaraobt daughter in their ma.ri ge$ becanfc partly So'omons marriage with ou iandi/h women, is marked among his faults, and focan hardly b„ cfteemed tc be honoured with ti is iong delivered to the Kirk tor her perpetual inftru&ion; partly becaufe in the Inlcri-ption theif is not fo much as mention of Solomons name,ekher as type or refemblance of this marriage of Chrift and his Kirk; and partly alfo becaufe what is here fpoken, hath little typical verity anfwering to it in the Hiftoryof Scripture concerning Solomons marriage, or Children of Pharaohs daughter. And la illy, thi^ fong is let down not in a typical manner, but in a iicnple iiraili-. tude of the marriage of a King and Queen indefinitely,whofc marriage ufeth to be the moft glorious of ail earthly marriages, and fitteft to lead us up to that incomparably glorious fpiritual marriage of Chrift ~nd his Kirk. In \<hich confederation from thefe wordsj Learn, i. Chrift doth not draw glory from his,progenitors according to his fle(h,6ut giveth being and gracious being to fuch asheregeneratethby his word and Spirit to be his children, and fo it may be faid to Chrift, Inftead of thy'fathers Jfall be thy children, i The excellency of Chrifts children and their princely difpofition above the reft ;of mankind unregenerate, i$ of Chrifts making > he only it is, of whom properly it may be faid, Thoujhalt ikd{t thy children princes in all the earth \ for, He hath made us lyings and Triefts to God and his Father, g. By the Spirit th.it indired this Pfalme,and all other Scriptures Chrifts name (hall be holden forth and remembered from age to age,while the world lafteth, I will mah^e thy name (faith the Spirit') to be remembered to ail generations. 4. Ch.ifts cfpoufing un^o himfelf* Kirk, and gathering moe arid moe from age to age by his word and Spirit unto it, his converting fouls, and bringing them in tb the fellqwmip of his family , and giving unto them princely mindes and afreet ions whereever they live,' is a. large matter of growing and everlasting glory unto his majefty; for in regard ofthispoint, and whatis'fnid before in this Pfalme, headdeth ins the clofe of all, Therefore Jball the people praifs tbec.

PSAL,

| I I » M "l ' " ' " ■ I ■ " " I ■ ■ i . . . — . , »,

PSAL XL VI.

T* the thief Muficim for the fons efl&rab, * fw& upon Almotb.

After fome notable delivery of the Kirk from the enemies, the Lords people do confirme them* (elves in their refolution to truft in God, and not to be afraid of trouble, becaufe of his comfort* able prefence among them, which is like unto a river of continual refrefliment, as late experience did give evidence, ver. i, 2, 3, 4, <;, 6. and do exhort all men in the world toobferve this his late work, and make ufe of it for their humiliatU on, ver. 7$ 8,9,1 o. as the Kirk doth make ufe of it for confirmation, ver. u.

L Verf. i./^^OD is our refuge and firength : a very vJT prefent help in trouble.

2. Therefore tviQwe not fear , though the earth be removed: and though the mount aims be carried into the midfioftheSea.

3 # Though the waters thereof roar and be treacled : though the mountains Jhak* With the failing thereof Selah.

FRom bygone experience of Gods defending his Kirk, the Lords people do ftrengthen themfclves in the faith of Gods word, concerning the care of his people; and from this ground, do guard their heart againft the fear of all poffible trouble in time coming. Whence learn, 1. Faith in Gods word and the profefli-on of it 3 is made much more vigorous and lively after felt-experience of the verity thereof $ for the Kirk did believe this truth before this late delivery, but now after this frefh experience they are

animated

animated to fct to their feal to it more confidently, faying, (jod is currcfugc.i.PLlbch the Kirk were deftituteof all humane ftiength within her felf, and were forfakenj yea and purfued by all King* and Princes , yet hath (he God for a retiring place, and for fut-niftiing of what is fufficient for her fubfiftence; Godis outre-fuge dridjlrcngib. $ . Albeit the Lord will not exempt his people from trouble, yet he will be neer them in trouble* and when their weaknek is difcovcred to them, then he will help them, and will pot delay his help too long, but will give help in time of need effectually; for God is to his people,^ very prefent help in trouble* 4. Nothing can guard the heart of Gods people againft the terror of poffibie, or imminent troubles,fave faith in God; for here the Lords people haying fixed their faith, do make this inference* Therefore will not we fear. ? The terrour of apparent trouble, is the touchftone of confidence in God, and then is faith fixed, when it doth look upon the greateft dangers aud troubles that can J>e imagined, with refolution to adhere to God and to that truth that persecutors do oppofe, whatfoevcr may come, We will not fear ^though the earth be removed. 6. Albeit the whole frame of the world were changed, and the work of creation were either diflbl-ved or confounded^which fhall be in effeft at the laft day; yet faith findeth footing and ground to fiand upon in God himfclf, JPc will not fear, though the mountains be carried into the midft of the Sea, though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though : ibe mount-aines jhakcwith the fmUingthereof. Selah.

Verf. 4. There is a river, the slreams whereofJhatt, make glad the city of God : the Holy place of the Tabernacles of the lpoft High.

5. God is in the midfi of her : fbe Jhall not be moved : Gad fhall help her 3 and that right early.

The Kirk doth look upon the Lords word and ordinances joyn-ed with the blefling of his Spirit among them, as upon a fufficient confolation againft whatfoever trouble can be imagined. Whence learn, 1. Although there be many particular perfons in the Lords Kirk militant, and many particular Congregations, as there were many habitations in Jerusalem, and many tabernacles at the time of the folmne feaft, when all the Lords people were gathered together to the keeping thereof $ yet are they all one Kirk univerfal, one KingdomeofGod; one City compatt together in the union

of

of one fealed Covenant, one true faith and Spirit ; The plurality cf the Tabernacles of Goi doth ma\e but one City of god here. 2. Albeit trouble without comfort may fell on men who know not God ; yet to believers within the Kirk there can no trouble come, wherein the true Citizens may not finde confutation and joy to uphold them againft all caufes of for row s There it a river, theftreams whereof makeglad the City of God, 3. The confola-tions which God fornifheth to all who will make ufeof them within the Ki k, are no, like the confolations which the world can afford, whit h are in all refpefts inefficient to overcome trouble > but the confoUtions of God are abundant, conftantly running, ready at hand, and able to make a man a conquerour over trouble effectually, and to make him rejoyce in the Lord in the midft of trouble; fcr this is imported in the fimilitude of refrefhing water; There is a river the ftreams whereof Jhall make gUd the City of God. 4 God will never torfake his people who leek after him, but where they a. e following his ordinances in any meafure of (incerity, there will he be > God if in the midfi of her. ?. As the confolation of the Kirk, fo alfo the liability of the Kirk, and xontinuance of it from generation to generation, dependeth upon Gods fettled refidence therein ; God is in the midft of ber,Jhc Jhall not be moved. 6. Gods prcfence among his people will not exempt them from trouble,but from perdition in trouble : he will not exempt the bu(h from burning,but from being confumed, For ^od Jhall help her. 7. Albeit the Lord do not appear at the point of time when we would , yet fhall he come and help in time of need moil timeoufly,Cr0^/W help her,and that ri^bt early. Verfe 6. The heathen raged , the k^ngdomet were moved : he uttered his voice, the earth tnelted.

7. The LORT> ofhofis is with us ; the God of Jacob u our refuge. Se/ah.

He cleareth the doctrine delivered, by a late experience of Gods taking order with the enemies of the f£nk,at the time when they in great confluence and power made aflault againft her. JVhence learn, 1. Tt is no fmall indignation which the world doth bear againft the Lords Kingdome, his people, and work among them ; nor is it any mean power from which the Kirk is in danger to-fufferhardfhip, but fury in the height of it, and force in the fartheft extent of it,may me #%& to encounter v/iih;Tbc heathen ragedythc Kjngioms were moved 2.It is not the worldly power c?f tjhc Lords people which can fuftaine the affaulp 0..{their raging

ene*

enemies .butGod himielf muftprove party to her opprcflbrs;thcrc-fore here the Lord doth interpote himfelf for his people ; The to d uttered his voice. $. Itfhallnot coft the Lord any bufi-nefs to difpatchtbe enemies of his people 5 let him (hew himfeif a little, let him but fay the word and they are gone, as Snow before the Sun, or fat caft into the fire, io are they confumed ; He mured his voice 3 the earth melted. 4. Any one experience of the Lords working for his Kirk may fuffice toconfirme the faith of his people concerning his perpetual prefence in his Kirk, foraf-fiftanceof his people in their difficulties j for from this oneex-perience he di awcth the inference; The Lord of hofts U "with ust $. What the Lord is in wifdom,powerj and other attributes, that may the Kirk apply to her felr^ and be fure to have the fruit of it as her need requiteth j it hofts of heathen and huge great Armies of whole Kingdomes be againft his Kirk , it ftiil may be fure God the Lord of Armies will ftand up againft them, and for his Kirk, The Lord ofhofts is with us. 6. The Covenant ofGodnvde with the Kirk in former ages, is good enough fecurity to the Kirk in after-ages for obtaining whatsoever benefit his Covenant includeth; The God of Jacob is our refuge 5 yea the rights made to the incoiporation of the Kirk, is as goo., fecurity for the ufe of every particular believer, as if it were made personally to every member by name ; .and thereforeas wxfeCitixens do reckon whatsoever they can claim by theirTown-Charter, no lefs to belong to them then thei; own private poflef-(ions : fo whatfocvet the believer can claim by vertue of the great Charter made to the Kirk, he ihoujd reckon it as fure to be his* as if his proper name had been ipecified in the promifes; for, The Cod of Jacob is our refugees thus much, became God is undoubtedly the wod of Jacob, andibis childrens refuge, he muft undoubtedly be our God, who are members of that incorporation, and our refuge.

Verf. 8. Come, behold the Workj of the L 0R<D, I tyhat defoliations he hath made in the earth.

9. Hemaketh the wars toceafe unto the end of the J earth : he breadth the bov>e 7 and ctttteth the jpear in funder, he burneth the chartot in the fire.

I o. Befiill y and knoVe that 1 am God : I mil be ex-

altedamong the heathen: 1 will be exaltedin thee arth.

11. Tbi LORD of bofis is jfitb us: the God of Jacob

X%Qtirre]t4£C. Selab, ' In

PSAL. XLVII,

In the latter part of the Pfalme, he exhorts all men to make ufc of this deliverance given to the Kirk for their humiliation, confidence in God 7 and confolation. Whence learn, i. When God doth work works of wonder in favour of his Kirk, moll men maik not the Lords doings fuch is the dulnefs and ftupidity, ingratitude, misbelief and perverinefs of men> either thinking little of his work, or afcribing the praife to inftruments, or fome other thing befide God ; fo that there is need to call unto men,, and fee them to their duty} fame, and behold the worfa of the Lord. 2. Wonderful calamities doth God pour out upon the eneiwes of his people, when he entereth in judgement with themj for what they intended to do to his people, he doth unto them, Behold* what desolations he hath made in the earth- 3 .When it feemeth good to the Lord, he can give peace univerfally to his Kirk, and a whiles breathing from the trouble of outward enemies,He maf^eik wars to ceafc to the ends of the earth 4. Long preparations for war,armes and ammunition which have been made with great labour and expenccs againft his Kirk, the Lord can foon give a feortaccompt of them, and make them ufelefs when he pleifeth, fie breadth the bowe, and cutteth the fpcar in [under, he Burnett? the Chariot in the fire. 5. Becaufe men cannot underftand what they are doing, or what is their duty fo long as their paffi* ons are a loft, fo long as their mindes arc tumultuous bulled about many things, and diftrafted from what is moft ne-ceflary > it is good for people from time to time to gather in their ftraying thoughts, to filence their oaffions and perturbations, and humbly compofe themfelves for obflrvation of whatfoeverGodrequirethof them, Beftill,and \m>w that 1 am God. 6. It is better for men to bewite and acknowledge the Lord by the words of his inftruftion, 1 hen to leave their leffon tp be learned 6> dolef 1 experience and danger of deftruftion, Beflill,and J^iovp that I am God. 7. There is not fo ready a way for the Lords people to cjuiet their minde againft the fear of trouble and perfecution of men, as to fettle their faith about Gods taking care of his peopleandof his owncaufe and of hisminde declared againft his and their enemies J Beftill, and know that 1 am God. 8. The Lord will not be at a lois by the oppofition of his enemies, he will nor fail to enlarge his glory, the more that men go about to fupprefs it $ he will make an inrode upon his ad-verfai ies lands-, and make them know himfeff to be God, either to their converfion or confufion and deftrudtion J I will ( faith he,) be exited a^ongtke heathen, 9. How little notice foever

be

fce taken of the Majefty of God oft-times in the vifible Kirk,an4 alwayes without the Kirk he be mif-rcgardcd> yet will he fce to his own glory, notonty»in the Kirk, but alfo among the enemies of the Kirk, and not only among fuch as have a&ually invaded his people, but alio among them far and neer that have taken no notice either of him or of his people > J mil be exalted in the earth. 10. Whatfoever manifestation of Gods power be made in the world by his judgement againft his enemies wha know him not 1 yet he is ever doing for his Kirk, and not againft her 5 The Lord of boftsis mtbus. 11. The Kirk of God otf? believers need not care how many be againft them, feeing they have moe for them then can be againft them ; to wit, God and all the creatures at his command, The Lord of hojis is with us. 1 2. The ftrength of the Kirk ftands inhcr renouncing her own* and fleeing in to Gods ftrength, and not in oppofing their enemies by ihong hand, but by betaking otthemfelvcs to God i Tht Cod of Jacob is our refuge. 13. We have need to make God the ground of our confidence, and to make our communion with God the ground of our comfort; for God is fufficient for us a-gainft every evil, and God is fufficient unto us for furniftiing every eood,and we have need to fix and fettle our grounds, by oft-ner fubferipcion of this truth,and ofener avowing of it, The Lord of hojis is with us, the Cod of Jacob is our refuge, Is repeated*

PSAL XLVIL

To the chief Mufician* A Pfalme for the fons of Hyorafc

This Pfalme is a prophecie of the enlargement of Chrifts Kingdome, and of the conjunction of Jews and Gentiles in one body under Chrift their head and I ord. delivered by way of exhortation to Jews and Gentiles, joyfully to praife the God and Saviour of his people Jefus Chrift; on whom the Pfalmift lorkech as now afcended into heaven triumphantly after the full payment made of the price of Redemption, and as going about the gathering in of the redeemed Gentiles 9 till he

bring

bring in the fulnefs of them into one Kirk with the Jews j the exhortation is prefixed, ver. x. and repeated, ver. 6, 7. the reafons of the exhortation to a joyful praifing of him are feven. The firttyVtr. ?* The fccobd,*«r. 3. The third,z/*r. 4, The fourth^r. 5. The fifth ver. 7. Thefixth,w* 8. Thefeventh/z/^.p.

Verfe I. jT\ Clap your bands ( all ye people ) {bout Vy nntoGod with the voice 0 j triumph.

FRom tht exhortation to Jews and Gentiles, joyfully to praifc the Redeemer; Learn, i; Chrifts Kingdome and rhe benefits thereof do belong to moe nations then one, for in him the redeemed in all the nations of the earth are bkGkd,Clapyour binds} dlyeapeopk, or, alt ye Nations, faith the Lord. %. The King-dome of Chrift coming to a people^ or family, or perfon, is matter of chief joy to them, bccaufe thereby delivery cometh from fin, Satan, and mifery, and fure mercies of righteoufnefs, peace* and joy in the Holy Ghoft with eternal lift brought to them, arid therefore juft reafon to fay to therti to whom Chrift cometh, O dap your binds,<fi)0ut unto God with the voice of triumph. $.Our joy and our victory over all our enemies, which Chrift hath pur-chafed and bringeth to all believers in every Nation, is the matter of Chrifts praife, and doth declare that he is God, who having in bis manhood fuftered, wraftlecTagafnlt fin, Satan, death, hell, and the curfe of the law 3 did by the power of his Godhead pre-vaile before he brought joy to the Gentiles. Thqs much do the words of the exhortation imports for his triumph prciuppofeth iis viftory, and his victory prefappofeth his battel before he overcame, and the commanding of the Gentiles to clap tbeit bands and jhout, and to fhout with the voice of triumph, piefuppoleth their iotereft in the victory j and while they are bidden mout to, God, the triumpher, who in ail this Pfalm is the Redeemer Chrift (as ihalf appear hereafter;) it imports that the Redeemer is God, and Lowfoeverhe is God infeparably from rhe Father and the Holy Spirit, yet here he is diftinclly to be looked on in his perfon; and hewfocver he is infeparably to bepraifed with the Father and Holy Spirit, yet here diftindly to be praifed for this his Work of victorious Redemption of finners 5 therefore it is faid with di-ilintt relation to his perfon* Shout Unto God with tbe.vohe of triumph. Verfe 2*

Verfe 2. For the LORD mo(l high is terrible^ h* is a great King over all the earth.

From the firft reafon of rhe joyful praifing of Chrift, taken from his Sovercigne M 1 jefty over all the world j Learn , i. That the Redeemer the victorious triumphcr, is the Lord very God, ciTentially tfebovub, lb, Lord r, oft high, 2. Chrift is able both to keep his iubjects in fubjection by his rod and corrections, and to take brier with his enemies alio, how high focver they be, Tbt Lord moft high is terrible. $. Chrift hath right and juft title to erect a Kirk in what Countrey and Kingdom he pleafeth, without asking any mans licence, and to fet up among his fubjects the profeffion of his namc,and practice of all his Ordinances per-' taining totheexercile of Religion in doctrine, worfhip, and Eccleliaftick government of hisfubjtcts, He is agre.it Xjng over all the earth*

Vzifc 3 • He Jhall fab due the people under to, dnd the nations under our feet.

From the fecond reafon for joyful praifing of Chrift, taken from the encreafing of his own Kingdome, and the exalting of all his fubjects above the reft cf the world 5 Learn, 1. The true: Kirk of Chrift may from age to age promife to her felf addition of new fubjects, or bringing down of their enemies under their feetj for as the true Kirk in the Prophets time might fay, fo may alfo every true Kirk fay after them, Hejhall /ubdue the people under va> And the nations under our feet. 2. If it will not pleafe the Lord at fuch a time as men would wifli, to execute judgement on their enemies, nor yet to convert them, and make them additional fubjects to his Kingdome, yet lhafl he not fail to make his oWn people victorious over their oppofition, power, and persecution, and more then conquerors in this refpect. He jhallfub* due tin people under us, and the nations under our feet,

Vcrf. 4. He fhdl chufc opir inheritance for w, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.

Frem the third reafon of Chiifts praife, taken from the ca*e he hath for fuftentation and welfare of his fubjects $ Learn, 1. As God by allotting of earthly Qanaan for the inheritance oi his people, did teftihe his care to provide for them both earthly fufte-nance and an enduring fubftance for their fpiritual fubfiftence reprefented thereby; fo will he provide for the luftenance of all his lubje&s in all ages, both bodily and fpiritual, He JbM chufc

Y m

%tz PSAL. XLV1I.

rur inkeritxnee for m. z. As he is moft loving of us> and more wife to make choyceof what is good foe us , then we our feives are: fo,will he employ his wildome and love in carving out unto us our lot, meafure, portion, and inheritance J He jhdl cbufe our inherit Altec for m> and not leave it to our carving. 3 ♦ The main part of the inheritance of Chrifts fubjects is no earthly thing, but his verybeftblcfrihgjfuch.ashegavetojirofe above Ejaw, Their inherit wee Jhdll be the excellency of Jacob, 4. The fountaine of Chi ills care for all his fubje&s, is common to them and to Jdcob, / t nd that is his love. The excellency of Jacob whom hs kvcd^flixli be their inheritance. Sclab.

Verfe 5. Qod is gone up With a fhout^ the LOKT) With a found of a trumpet,

Prom the fourth reafon of Chrifts praife taken from his glorious triumphing over all his enemies and ours when he afcended to heaven; Lej.ru, \ . He that afcended, what is it but that he alfodefcended,firft into the lower parts of the earthy he thatjdef-cended is the fame alfo that afcended up farre above all heavens^ that he might fill all thjngs^Epfc/.^.That is, Chrift being very God, defcended in humbling himfelf to take on him the fhape of a fervant, and when he had perfected the work of redemption a-fcended in our nature, the fame very perfonftill very God, which defcended; for God is gone up with a ftmit. 2. As the Arke of the Covenant, the figure of Chrift, after victory gotten over the chief enemies of the Kirk, afcended up to Sion, and Gods pre-fence in it; So Chrift after victory obtained of his chief enemies on the Crolle 3 afcended triumphantly into heaven, CfoA is gone Mp with a Jlmt, Jehovah, rvitb the found of a trumpet*

Verf. 6. Sing praifes to God^ fingpraifes : fing praifes unto our King^ fing praifes.

Verfe 7. For God is the King of all the earth : Jtng ye praifes with under (landing.

The exhortation given to all people to praife Chrift for the woikof redemption^ repeated, and directed totheKirkof the Jewes more particularly with a fifth reafon of praife, taken from a neerer conjunction between Chrift and them , then between him and any other Nation, Whence le.ir 11 y 1. Albeit the Lord doth fhew his glory In the works of creation, and is Alining day-ly in the works of providence alfo > yet in the work of redemption, converfion and falvatioa of foul*, his glory is manifefted

farre

farrc more; for here, praife, praife, praife, and the fourth time praife is called for. 2. When beleevers in Jefus Chrift do con-liderhow heabafed himtelf to aflame our nature, how he payed the ranforflc for us as furety, how he did encounter and fight with all our enemics,and being victorious in our name,afc ended in our nature with the ihout of the victory, and found of the trumpet of the triumpher, they cannot chufe but fee reafons of praifing joy^ fully the glorious Godhead of Jefus Chrift,and of finging praifes to him as bod again and again. $. Of all Nations of the earth, the Jevves have the firft place, priviledge, and prerogative, manifeii bonds with, and intcrefts in Jefus Chriftj for he delivered them out of Egypt, fettled them in Canaan, held houfe among them in a Tabernacle, anfwered them by oracle out of the Arke of the Covenant, the type of his incarnation , took upon him to be I their King and fanctifier, the holy one,of Ifrael, their Redeemer, took of them his humane nature, and was born a Jew, therefore had the Prophet good reafon to fay to the Kirk of the Jewes,57'flg praifes to our KJ n &P l & ^aifes; and in this fong may all they joyn with the Jewes, who have embraced Jefus for their King. 4*Chrift is fo King over the Jews,as he alfo exrendeth his kingdom over all the earth,not only in regard of his power in a common maner,buc in regard of his fpecial grace gathering in fubjects out of all parts ; of the world,till he have the full number brought in and faved,he, he only ische trueCatholickKingJbrGfli U tbeJ^jng of all the earth. $. As none can praife <jod, orpraife Chrift fincerely > who do not underftand the reafons for which they ftiould praife 5 fo he that praifeth underftandingly, cannot chufe but praife affection* attly, therefore faith he, Singyepraifes with under/landing.

Verie. 8. God relgneth over the heathen I God fit-teth upon the throne of his holincffe.

From the (ixth reafon of Chrifts praife t:kcn from the keeping a Kirk among the Gentiles for gathering the redeemed out of all Tongues and Languages, and reigning among them as King of Saints, and another or holinefle} Learn, i„ To the end that Faith may finde footing and a Rock to reft upon, wc muft in all the promifes, works and praifes of Ch ift ftill remember that as he is now very man , fo is he alfo eternally God, and that no man reafonablv or with underftanding can praife him as the Redeemer and perfe&er of what isfpokenof him in Scripture, except he acknowledge him to be God; therefore is Chrift eight times in this Pfalm called God , befide the afcribing unto him work; proper to Gad only; and twice he ii called by the iricom-

Y % muni*

municable name of Jehovah the Lord; and in this verfe Godhead is twice acknowledged in him , as King of the Kirk among the Gentiles; God rcignetb over the beat! en, God fittetb upon the throve of his holinejfc. 2. Becauie the lumme of Chrifts Kingdome is holinciTe, and his work is to teach, prefcribeand command holinefle , to take away fin , and powerfully to apply and work in his own redeemed ones holinefle, and to continue in his actual governing of his Subjects , till he have made all and every one of the redeemed perfectly holy, therefore is his throne in a ipecial manner called the throne of bolinejfe j God fittetb upon the throne of bis holinejfe.

Ver* 9. The princes of the people are gathered toge* ther , even the people of the God of Abraham : for the fhieHs of the earth belong unto God : he is greatly exalted.

From the feventh reafon of Chrifts praife, taken from his converting of great men of the earth, (as Kings and Princes,) and banging them to the obed ence of the faith and union with the true Kirk} Learn, j. Albeit oft-times it is feen, that not many rich, noble, or potent are called 5 yet God for hi? own glory is from time to time bringing in fome of them , and when it may gloririe his name, ftiall Bring in , and per feci: what is promifed, and prophefied here 5 The t J rinces of the people are gathered together. 2. It is a point of Chrifts praife in the converfion of men, that his omnipotency m:keth men voluntary Subjects, arid to come in to him as by invincible power on his part 3 fo alio deliberately with a tree election, and heartie content of will on the convened mans part; The Princes of the people, and excellent ones in the earth, of whatsoever rank converted unto Chrift, arc voluntary people > for the original fuftereth alfo this reading , The voluntary of the people are gathered together. 3. The Kirk of the Jews is the mother-Krrk , whereof Abrahmzn& the godly Jews, yea and Chrift himfelf were Members; , The Kirk of the jewes is the Olive-tree, whereinto all the Converts of the Gentiles are ingrafted, gathered, and made one people with Abraham and *he faithtull among the Jewes; . The Trinces of the people are gathered together >"the people of the God of Abraham, 4. The unity of the Kirk ftandeth in the union of tne Spirit, under the iervice of the one only true God,and in conjuction with his people, for the union of Jew and Gentile , is the gathering together of the Princes of the people to the God of Abraham.

j, As

?. As there is a neceflltyofthc union of Jewes and Gentiles i p * one vifible Chriftian Khk 3 becaufe i: is proinifcd and p.ophe-fied that it fliall be fo 5. So there is rcafonto wifh for the more evident union of them, that they may be as eminently confociate as ever the Chriftian Khks were , (cither in the Apoftks time orintheChriftimEmpcrourstjrneJ in a general Aflemblyor oecumenical Councell $ foe that there is ar leaft a poilibility.of ancecurncnical Councel , or a general aflembly of Jewes and Gentiles in this world under Chrift their King This place makes itplaine, bccatUe after it is foretold that there mall be fuch a ' union of all the people of the God of Abraham , Jcwes and Gentiles , as their Princes JhM be gathered, together ; He takes away the chief ground of a great objection which may be made from the difcord and di ("agreement of the Princesof the world; fome of them being averfe altogether from the Chriftian Religion,, (ome of them from the true Religion of Chrift , and all of them al-moft diiienting one from another,, and warring one againft another; wherebyjuow for many yeares the gathering of an oecumeni-call Councel hath not been poflible. He meeteth this objection in the Textj faying^ For the jhields of the earth belong unto God> that isj the hearts and power of all the Kings 0: the earth are in the Lords hand , and he hath the difpoiing of fhields^ armies and ammunition ? with all their commanders and rulers in the world > and therefore can make them ierviceable for the nea: * eft conjunction and union of his viable Kirk 3 which can be for t his glory in this world 3 as lie fees fl: how and when he will. 6. When all is faid of Chiifts praife that man can expretTe of him, thereisnopoffibility toattaine to the full or fatisfaclory fetting forth of his glory as it deferveth; but men muft content themtelvesto fet faile, and to reft in the generall, that Chrift' is and (hall b: very highly glorifiedjfcr fo the Pfaimiftclofeth/aying after all >. He is great ly cxaked. *

PSAL. XLVIII.

A Song and Pfdmefor the fonnes of Korah-

In this Pfalme the Lord is magnified for all his

mercies bcflowed on his Kirk, (refembled by

ftrufa/em) %erf* \\ 2> 3. And in fpeciali for a

lace .mercie manifefted in a paffage of his

Y 3 <carg

care to preferve Jemfalem , a type of the Kirk univcrfall, againft the affault of mighty Kings, verf.4,%6. The ufes of which mercies are fee down in number feven; The firft, v. 7. Thefecond, v,8. Thefhird, <z/,9* The fourth, v. 10. The fifth, v.i 1. Thefixth,*/. 12,13. The feventh, v. 14.

Verf. l./^Kw* is the LORD, and greatly to be VJT prat fed in the city of cur God 9 in the ntountaine of his holimjfe.

2. Beaatifullfor fituation, the joy of the Whole earth is 10*00; iViflu : on the fides of the North, the city of the great King.

3. God ii known in her palaces for a refuge*

IN the firft place he dedareth his purpoie to give God the praife of whatfoever is commendable in Jernfalem, or done unto it> or wrought for it. Whence Learn, 1. As God fhewes his great* neffe and glory in all his works> and fpecially in hiscare?br 3 re-fpectunto, and operation in his Kirk; fo (hould he have glory and praife from his Kirk , for and from all his works, but fpe«* daily for his care of her; Grc.it is the Lord, and greatly to be prxifed in the city of our God. z. As it is the benefit of jferufa* km, and of his Kirk reprefented thereby, to be united and governed in a regular incorporation; fo it's a matter of Gods praife, that he maketh his viiible Kirk above nil other incorporations andfbeieties of men in the world to be hiscitie 3 with which he will be in Covenant 3 and wherein he will manifeft his holy Name; Therefore tfcrufalcm, and the Kirk reprefented by her is here called , the city of our God, aid the mountaine of his holi-veffe. $. Whatfoever could commend Jferufalem for fituation in the point of pleafantnefle^ commodities ftrength or ftatelinefle 5 all is but a fhadow of the glory of the Lords Kirk 3 and in particular , as the joy o( the whole land depended ontfenifalems v/ell-faire, and this City did adorne all tfudea, and the gfeac Kings palace adorned her 5 So the Kirk is the joy of the whole eai'h, by holding out to all the light of faving Doctrine > and" fliewing the authority, power, wifdome, and grace of Chrift$ who is her great King, and doth bcautifie his Kirk , for the illuminate

minationoftheblinde dark world; Beautifull for fituation , the joy of the whole earth is mount Sion t onthcJi.le< of the North, the fity ofthegrcdt Kjng. 4. As the walls 3 houfes, anA palaces of fern-falem were nor the itrength of the Citizens ; but God was her ftrength, *as they had /earned by experience : fo worldly ftrength is not the confidence of Gods Kirk, but God only, who defendeth her by his power ; God is k nown * n her peaces for a refuge.

Verf. 4. For l 0 , the Kings -were affcmbled : they faffed by together.

5 § They fawit, and fothey M4rveiled; they were Itonbled, and hafted Away.

6, Feartookheld upon them there ; and paine at ofa^Koman in travaile.

He confirmeth what he hath fpoken 3 by a late experience of deliverance from the invalion of mighty Kings , gathered to be-fiege anddeftroy Jferufrtem. Whence learn, iV The Lord by ex<-perience from time to time , maketh manifefl: his care to defend hi& Kirk againft moft mighty oppreffours ; who ufe to combine themfelves together, when theyminde to overthrew the Kirk : For to , the J^izgs were affcmbled. z. Many imaginations arc in the heads of adverfaries when they are plotting the ruine of Gads-Kirk, which, when they are abouc to execute, do vanifti and prove prefumptuous and vaine apprehenfions of their own ability, and of the Kirks weakneffe; When the Kings wcreaf-(iivbtcd) they pajfed.by together. They found thcmlelves unable to effect what they intended/ and hoped to bring topafle.' $• When the ftrait comcth, and the Kirk is ia danger, then the 'Lord doth fliew himfelf for her, and againit her enemies., and makes men fee his interefl in his Kirfc j now when the Kings were^flTembled , they perceived themfelves m^ft-iken wonderfully* They ftw it 3 fo they marveled. 4. Such as ccme to bring tronbie to Gods- Kirk, come to. Catch troubles to themfelves > When Kings aflembled to trouble Gods people, they few, and • veiled) and were troubled. 5, If the eiiemies,Qf the Kirk could fo eTcc their own foul retreat, they would not advance ob make affauic againfl; the Ki4 k j for now when they did fee matters, ?s they were indeed, they were troullcd, ajiA bajledawjy. 6. ih* fides the miichief which God bringeth upon the Kiks enemies 5 #ken fee begins to pleaf by wry of judgement againft th:m, he

Y 4 fendeth

fendeth terrour on them alio, a meflenger of il Wd jngs to fore -warnethem that worfe yec (hall befall them: Fear took hold upon them there. 7. Heart and hand, courage and ftrength, counfel and refolution doth faile a man y when he feeth God to behispartie, and to be prevailing againft him; Fear took hold, en them , and paint as a woman in travaile > Sudden, unexpected, fore and inevitable is their deftruction when it cometh.

Verf. 7. Thou brealgji the flips of Tarjhi/b with an Edft-r*inde.

The firil ufe they make of this experience is this, they are led up by it to fee and acknowledge Gods power in all the world , to take order with and deftroy whomfoever he will. JVhence learn y I. No power can ftand before God, and none can efcapehis bands go whither they will, he can aime fome of his creatures a-gainft them both by land and lea : Thou breakeft the fhips of Tarjhijh with an E-ift-wiude. z. One work of the Lords juftice or power againft his enemies, and one experience of his merciful defending of his Kirk> mould lead his people to acknowledge his Sovereigne power, and omnipotency over all, whereby he ('having all creatures at his difpofall) can fecure his people from all quarters, and deftroy all that fhall rife againft them J for this fpeech hy$th this in fubftance : Thou who fcattcredft the armies of J£ings who had invaded us , haft power in all the world by lea and land to overtake thy enemies, for Tboudidft break thejhips QfTarfhiJb with an Eaft-Tvinde.

Verfe 8. As we have heard > fo have roe feen in th* city of the LORDofhofls^ intbevityof ourGodi G(\d TVilleftablifhit for ever. SeUh.

The fecond ufe is this," by this experience we perceive that-the Lord will keep hispromife to his Kirk , and preferye herfpr eveis JVbencilcarn, 1. ^They that believe the'-word of God,-and dd markchis works foretold inchcword ^ fhall fee and findefcy ex u periencc the event thereof to an 1r wer:t6 the prediction \ and having their faith fo confirmed.they mould fay 5 As rot have faxrd> fohave vce feen in he city of the Lord.'' 2. The mercies-of the Lord beftowed on his Kirk for her-defence and continuariceV do flow from his Covenanting with his Kirk; for the reafon of the mercy now beftowed • is? becaufe the city of the Lord of boftf u the city of our God: 3. Albeit all Kingdomes and Commonwealths be fubje$ to deftruftion, and have their certain limits

and

and periods; yet the Kirk, the Kingdome of Chrift, the City of God (hall endure throughout all generations, and the gates of hell (hall not prevaile over it y GodjhM eftablifb it forever.

Verf. 9. We have thought of thy lovingkindnefa 0 Cod y in the midfl of thy Temple.

A third ufe is the acknowledgement of the fweet fruit of their former patient depending upon Gods kindnefle in the ufe of the publick ordinances, and nosv they perceive by this late experience it was notvaine. Whence learn, 1. They that believe Gods loving Kindnefle in the time when there are apparent fignes of his wrath , and patiently do depend on him in the ufe or holy ordinances 3 mail not be fruftrate of their exfpe&atioh > as here the Pfalmift doth here acknowledge. 2. As it is a good thing pati-ertly to wait on Gods loving kindnefle in the ufe of the means, when troubles and dangers do come 5 io it is a good thing for the godly after receiving the fruit of their faith, hope and patience, to obferve the grace gotten ofGod 5 which made them to meditate upon and ldj|k unto bis loving kindnefle : and fo- to ftrengthen themfelves in their refolutions, to follow this bleflfed courfe here* after , as the faithful do here-. We have thought of thy loving frjndncjfe, 0 Goi, in tbemidft cfthy Temple.

Verf* 10.. According to thy Name, O God, fo is thy frai/e unto the ends of the earth : thy right hand u fall ofrighteoufneffe.

A fourth ufe is their gladneflc , becaufe of the encreafe of Gods elory by this his late mercie towards them , wherever it {hould be mentioned. Whence learn, 1 .Whatsoever God giveth himfelf out for 3 that will he be found to be anfwerable unto in effect even. to all his holy and magnificent attributes: According to thy Name, 0 Cjod,foUthy praifc. 2. Themanifeftation of Gods Name by preaching ol his word cometh to many, who will not lubferibe all to be true that is faid of him ? But afterward when he maketh his word good to the comfort of his people, and overthrow of his enemies, men will be forced to fay of him^that he is as good as his word, and that his works do lcofe his word laid in pawn for performance of it 5 According to thy Name, 0 God % fo is thy fraifc unto the ends of the earth. $ . The Lords power is not idle, but conftamly working in equity and juftice for performance of promiies and threatenihgs, for defending his people,

an4

and puniminghis enemies* Thy right band is full ofrigbte* cufnejfe.

Verf. ii. Let mount Sionrejojce Jet the daughters

ofjudah be glad, becaufe of thy judgements.

A fourth ufe is to ftirre up all good people to rejoyce , becaufe God hath pleaded their caufe againft their enemies. Whence learn, i. Itbecom«thallmentobcgladtofeeGodglorifiehim-felf in deciding controverfies equitably; but moA oTall thepeo-pleofGod, who have the prelent benefit thereof, and in whofe favours controverfies between them and their enemies are decided $ Let mount Sion rejoyce, and the daughters ofjudah be glad. i. Albeit it be lawfull for Gods people to rejoyce when their enemies, srepunifhed $ yet had they need to take heed to their ipirit, that their joy be not flefhly, for fatisfa&ion gotten to their vindi&ive paffions; butfpiritual, for the declaration ofGodskindneffeto dispeople, and juft indignation at the wickedneffe of their malicious perfecutors: Let them be gladjecaufe of thy judgements.

Verf. I2» Walkabout Sion 9 and go rotyf} about her: tell the towers thereof

13. Marhje yeWellherbulwaikes- confderberfa* laces 9 thqtye may tell it to the generations following. \

The fixth ufe of this late experience of the Kirks delivery, is to obferve the impregnable defence of the Kirk , fhadowed forth by the walls o£Jeru[alem for the encouraging of Gods people in all ages , and advertifing of all rruen to beware to attempt to do ber wron* in time coming. Whence learn, 1. The Kirk of God is fo well guarded by Gods wifdome, power, goodwill and juftice, as with a wall of fire, that all the ftrength to be obferved in the walls and tower* of earthly JsrvfMm are but (hadowesj For, Walk, about Sim, and'go round about her, and tell the tomr* thereof is no other thing then look through the type, and consider Godsproteftionreprefentedthereby, z« When atypeis.to beftudied, dbfervation particularly may and ihould be made of whatfoever in it may lead us further in upon the right uptaking of the antitype refembled thereby, Walk abpuf, go round 4-\>out\ {Mark? ye well her bulwarks, confidcr her palaces ; for in God, or in Gods attributes fomething anfwcrable to all thefe will be found, j. What light the Lord furni/heth concerning Saimfeif and his Kirk which may glorifie God, and ferve the po-

fleriry

; fterity for their edification, fhcmld be tranfmitted unto them t Mtrfyy that ye may tell it to tbe generations following.

Verfc 14- For this God is out God for ever and ever: he will be our guide, even unto death.

The feventh and laft ufe of this experience of the Kirk* is con-folation in God to Gods people in ever) hard cafe, and encouragement to them againfi; all future feares, becaufe God is the fame constantly to his people in all ages as the late experience of the Kirk had given proof. Whence kxtn, 1. The great Maker of Heaven and Earth, and Redeemer of his people is one and the fame for ever/both in brmfelf and towards thofe that believe in him ; This God is our god. 1. God is ftili in Covenant with his Kirk, and with all the Members thereof, as well in one age as in another j Now, as of old j for This God # our God for ever and ever. $ . God will guide them whofe God he is a when they feek his counfel out of defire to follow it, and he will not lay down the conducting and governing of thofe who have committed themfelves unto him 5 but will guide them conftantly all the dayes of their life $ He will be our guide, even unto death.

PSAL. XL1X.

Tp the chief fflufician, A Tfdme for the fons cfKorah. This Pfalme fets forth the gloriation ofaBeleever in the grace of God, and in his bleffed condition, wherein he is lifted up above all the wealthy and honourable men in the world, who are not reconciled unto God : And this the Pfalmift delivereth out of his own feeling ^nd experience. And firfl, becaufe it is a main matter, and worthie of aU acceptation, hemaketh a Preface to his gloriation , vcrf. i 5 2, 3,4. Then heconieth out with it, majring his boaft JnGod 5 That by faith in God he was fo fecured againft finne and miferie, that they Ihould not be able to marr his happinefs, verf.5. Thirdly, he doth preferre his bleflednefe aboye whatfoever wealth or riches could yield

to

to a man, wr/i6,7,8,9, i.Cfc and above what-focverdominion overfairc lands, or honour a-mong men could yield to any man, either living or after his death, either tohimfelfor to any of his pofterity, verf. 11,12,13,14. Fourthly, he giveth reafon of his gloriation, becaufe being justified by faith, and at peace with God, he was fure of delivery from every evil, and to be received out of his grave into glory, and received into fellowfhip with God, verf. 15 • Fifthly, he guards every true Beleever againft every tentation which might difquiet him, when he faw himfelf and other godly perfons in outward trouble, and the wicked in profperity, verf. 16,17,18,19,20,

Verf, i.TJ Ear this>all ye people ^give eare y all ye in-JLA habitants of the world. 2* Both low and high, rich and poor together.

3. My month jhall fpeak ofWifdome : and the meditation of my heflrt jhall be ofunderftanding $

4. 1^illinc line mine eare to a parable: 1 ^>ill open **y dark^faying upon the harp.

TUc Preface callcth to the hearer for attention/aith and afte-ftion to this excellent myfterie which he is to deliver unto all men concerning the bleflednefle of the Beleever above all other men in the world. If hence learn, 1. A prepared and fantfified ear is neceffary for heavenly do£foine , and people had great need to be ftirred up to take knowledge of the excellency of it $ Hear this, alt ye people, give ear. 2. The doctrine of falvation, of faith, andofconfolation againft fin and miferie, concerneth all people in the world to k now , Give eat, ill ye inhabitants of the world, both high and low, rich and poor together. 3. That is true wif-domeand underftanding, which dot^h make men wife tofalvation, land which maketh them truly blefl'ed in this lifejand this wifdom is not the birth of mans biaine, but is revealed in rhe word of the Lord, delivered to his Kirk by the holy men of God in holy Scripture ;

| pture; &Ay mouth [mil fpcak ofrvifdome, and the meditation of my heart Jhall be ofUnder'jimdivg. 4. As it is neceflary for the Preachers encouragement to believe what he doth preach ; fo is it a great inducement to the people to hear Gods word from him who doth fpeak Gods word, becaufc he doth believe 3 and doth fubjecT'his fpirit to the Lords word, as the Prophet doth here $ I will incline my ears to a parable. 5. The do&rine of true blefied-nefie . and of the myfterie of mans ialvation manifcftidinthe Scripture, doth far tranfeend the carnall wifdome of the world> the excellency of the Gofpel unto the naturall man , is a parable and dark faying: Irvillopenmy dark tying on the barp. 6. How dark and difficult foever the myfturie of the Gofpeibe to the carnall world ; yet to the man of experience it is plain, fweet and comfortable; and a man of experience as he isbeftfeen in that matter, fo is he moft willing, heartily to communicate it to others j I rvill open ( faith hej my dark faying upon the harp: Intimating his delight in the doctrine.

Verf. <v wherefore fbould 1 feare in the dajes of evilly when the iniquity of mj heelesfhall compaffc me about I

After this Preface he uttereth his parable and dark faying, the fubftance whereof is this; I am fo perfwaded of the favour of God now reconciled to me by the blood of the Covenant 3 that neither do I need to fear by-pjft fins, nor any trouble which can •come on me hereafter 3 And this,I fay, toJet all men know that this bleifednefie maybe attained by every man,who (hall acknowledge his iinnes y and embrace the offers of grace made by God with his directions unto life, as I have done. Whence learn, 1. What God has fpoken in his word oftheblefledneffeof the man that is juftified by faith , every true Eeleever may finde 5 and may attoine to be fully affured of their perfeverance unto eter-Inali life 5 for here is a proof and example of it in the Pfaimifts

Krfon. *< This Dodrine oftheunfpeakablepca.ee of the Beaver reconciled to God chrough the blood of the Covenant, is la point of truth which the world is ignorant of, and hardly wilL jbelieve : No wonder therefore he did call it before, and here tuttereth it as 2 far able and dark, faying. 3* A Beleever after re-conciliation,muft neither exempt hitnleU horn danger of (inninj, nor from giving aaily accemptof hiscania^c unto ood^nor from .'challenges for fin ; nor from ordinary chalfiiements for fin, nor

trona

front heavie troubles and ill dayes which he may meet with 5 whether by Gods immediate hand for his correction , or by the perfecutors of godlineflfe for his further triall, exercife and training of faith ,* for here the Pfalmift prefuppofes that evil dayes will come : he prefuppofeth that every fin or iniquity of every adion and paflage of his life, fliall leavebehinde it animpreflion of guiltineffe to be taken notice of thereafter, like the print of a mans foot when he lifts his heele and walketh forward J he prefuppofeth after remiflion of fin, after the daily exercife of repent-ance,after frequent intimation made of remiflion of fin, and that oftner from day to day repeated, a man may be brought in the day v of trouble to a back-accompt for altogether, and old reckonings may be raked up again by the troubled confcience, and by the accufer of the Brethren, and that God will be ruling the bufinefs for the further glory of the riches of his grace, and'further good of his exercifedchilde* for here the Pfalmift forefeeth, and fpeaketh of his looking fovdayes of evil , and of the iniquity of bis beeles comparing him about , as what fhall or may befell him.'

4. Faith in the Median Jefus (Thrift, is able to make a man,not only at length to triumph over fin and miferie , over the curfe of the Law, and condemnation, or trouble andperfecution y but alfo before trouble come in humble and fol id confidence to bi feareleffe for what can come, and to look ail poflible evils out of countenance 5 Wherefore fnuld I fear in the dayes of evil, tyc+

5. Albeit it be poflible when it cometh to pufh of pike, and when the man is yoked in the conflict with troubles from without, and challenges for his finnes within , that the ftrongeft in faith may finde himfelf not a little afraid 5 yet when he confidcreth the ground laid down for fettling of his faith , to wit, the truth of the Covenant, themerkof the Mediatours facrifice, and the free-dome, riches and immutability of Gods love and grace, with the Pfalmift he may confidently profefie and acknowledge, that he hath no reafon to be feared for what Satan or the conicience may threaten him with 3 for this alfo is imported in wherefore ftiould I fear in the dayes of evil , when the iniquity of my heeles Jbatt com-faffe me about , which is as much as if he had laid, whatfoevei: may be my weakneffe , and exercife in trial > yet I know there is no juft reafon why I fhould fear condemnation, or to be debar* red from the poflefnon of full blefiednefle, by whatfoever pofli-bly can come unto me.

Verf, 6, They that trufi in their wealth y and boaft

them-

: themftlvis in the multitude of their riches.

7. None of them can by any me ones redeem his brother , nor give to God a ranfomefor him :

g. (For the redemption of their foul is precious , and it ccafcthfor ever.

9. That he Jhould live fitll for ever > and not fee corruption.

10. For he feeth that Vrife men die , likgwife the fool and the bruti(b perfon perifh, and leave their wealth to others.

In the third place, the Believer preferreth this his blefled condition to whatfoever either riches or honour or any earthlic thing can yield to any man. When> e learn, i.The bleffedneffe of the Believer, and the glory of faith is bell feen, when the vanity of all earthly happineffe and worldly gloriation in any thing be-fide God is ditcovered and compared with the condition of the Beleever; therefore are they that truft in their wealth , brought in companion with the Beleever iiere. 2. In whatfoever men do count their felicity to ftand , in that th,ey put their co nfidence, and do glory in it as here is prefv.ppofed: They that count riches their happineffe 5 they truft in their wealth, and boift tbemfclves in the multitude of their riches, g. The weaknefle of all worldly things to make a man blefled doth beft appear when death com-eth ; for when the time thereof is come 3 no rich man can help himfelf, nor yet joyning his riches with his brothers riches, can help his brother^ either by lengthening his life and fufpending death tempcrall > or by recovering him from death when he dieth* None can by any means redeem his brother. 4. Ail men are Gods prifoners of warre, his captives'^and liable by juftice to death temporal and eternalpnd there isno delivery from death,whether tem-1 poralIcretetnall 3 but bypayingarawfome unto God 3 which is I impoflible for a mcere man to pay; l 2^one can give to God a ran. ' fomefor bis brother. 5.We are not redeemed with iilver or gold, or any perifhing thing; our ranfome muft be of greater value then a meer man can pay for to one that is a man, and no more : The redemption of a mans foul it preciom^nd it ceafeth for ever. 6.Not fo much as this worldly life can be perpetuated , by whatfoever wealth or riches, or humane ability can do 5 far lcfle can the life of God, and that bleflednetfe i n hea vea be purchaied by any meerc

nam

man 5 None can redeem bis brother , that be Jhouli ftill live for ever 3 and not fee corruption.

Verfc 11. Their inward, thought is a that their houfes (h&\\ continue for ever , and their duelling places to all generations; t'ey call their lands after their own names*

I a. Neverthelejfe, man being in honour^ abideth not; he is like to the heafts that perifh.

13. This their way is their folly 5 jet their pofle* rity approve their fay ings. Selah.

14. Like-fheep they are laid in the grave , death fhallfeedon them ; and t he upright fhall have dominion ever them in the mornings andtheyr beauty fhallcon± fume in the grave from thetf dwelling.

He compareth the gloriation of the Believer with the condition ofthofe who aie not only rich 3 but alfo honourable^ and Lords of great rents 3 faire lands, houfes and heritages; and he doth pre-ferre the bleflednefie of the Beleever to their condition alfo. Whence learn, 1. Albeit experience doth teach that death is common to men of all rankes, wife and fcohfh, rich and poor, anJall; yet men are fo befotted, as when they fee this 3 they do not confider it, that they might riot place their happineiie in any thing, whereforetheymaybefeparated by death: The worldly manjeeth the wife man die, and alfo the foolijh. He fees alfo that many rich men do leave their goods vhey know not to whom % They leave their wealth toothers ; and yet for all this their feeing the mortality and the folly of mortall men dying before them> they that furvive a little do not 'draw, wi^dome from this obfer-vation, but dreame they fhall deceive death , and make them-felves fomeway eternall; they think to perpetuate their name in their pofterity by their heritages and the honours of their great families: Their inward thought is, that their houfes fiall con* ttnuefor ever , and their dwelling places to all generations. They call their lands after their own names. 2. The caufc of this folly is his deceived heart, and vain conceits and imaginations, which by death are blown away 5 Their inward thought it to eternise themfelves. Neverthelejfe, man being in honour y abideth not; oc doth not attain his fancied eternity. 3. The bleflednefle of the wealchy, potent and honourable man, as it is not permanent: v fo

PSAL. XLIX. hi

fo it leaves him in the dirt at length, and in no better cafe (if he have no faith or laving knowledge) tb.cn abeaft : Nevertbe-tcjfty man b ing in honour abiicth not, be is like tbc beafts that pc~ rijh. 4. Though the men who arc moft able to pur chafe lands y and to tranfmit them to their pofterity , are counted ordinarily the moft \vi e men) yet when men lpend their wit and care mainly about tii his p. cent earth, the Lord pronounce! h themtobefooles.* Thk their way i* their folly. 5. Though the cbfervationof the folly of predeceifouvs mould make the pofterity wifej yet few are found father-better, orfather-wifer* but foclcs follow iboles- in? a race -J and folly will not want a pa-trone, 'fo long as ferries ire to the fore: TMs their rvs.y is their felly , yet their pofterity approve their fayin^s. 6 A worldly mart not reconciled to God, dierh asafoolifli, (enfuall andfecuie bcaft as h<i lived ; Lif{ejhccp-they .. re laid in the grave , for they are deaths prey both foul" and body j Death pall feed vnthem'* 7- The righteous man juftificd by faith] and ftudying to live righreoufly , 3lbeityou lock on him in the worft sftace he can be in in the workdj under poverty and perfection 5 yet he is in better condition then the richeft and molV honourable ungodly man in all the earth j and. albeit this doth not appear in this dark world, to blinde men that have not the light of Gods word in them $ yet at the refurrection it fhall be fcen, that the poor and m:an juft man fhall be in a glorious condition ?bcve the worldling: The upright fhall have dominion over theminxhi morning 8. The whele glory of the worldly-minded man is ftldfrty confumed fo foon as he dieth 3 and then he changethhis lodging for the worfe, the beft dayes that ever he fhall iee are" gone:" Their beautyfhall conjume in their grave from their dwelling.

Yerfc 15 Hut Qod will redeem my foul from the power of the grave 5 forhefiall receive me. SeJah.

In the fourth pkceHl perfect? the companion, and gives £ teafonofh: 1, wli-.-reef we heard., verf. 5. The lumrne

whereof, is this, wealth and riches, nobility^ honour and dominion among mtn can follow an ungodly man no farther then the grave, rhere all well-fare c cc him .or evermore?'

but as for me who am i to God, juftificd 3 and in' forr»e

;meafure faniftific.i 3 thoi^.h I die, in my foul, be-

jingkeptby God till the i ■: demotion , and then

my foul being deprived only for a w! I oftiftbda/* fltall nave it

Z reftorcd*

rcftored again in the refunettion, and then foul and body Both (hail iully be redeemed and delivered from the power of the grave ; ter as God hath received me into favour in this life , and {hall receive my foul at death ; fo at the time of the delivering of my body from the grave > he mall receive me both foul and body into his fellowship , and therefore my condition is better, how many dayesofevii foeverlfliall fee in this life, then the condition ef any ungodly man in the world , how wealthy, how honourable and apparently happy focver he be in this world * yea, I may juftlv glory over all ungodly men , and fay yet again, wherefore /hould I fear in the dayes of evil, When the iniquhie ef my hedes fhail compaffe me about: For God will redeem my foul from the fiowcr ofthe grave. Whence learn, i. Albeit the godly may be iubjeft to mortality and outward miferyof chis mortall life, common to him and the ungodly; yet here is the difference 3 he is iure of a deliverance from" all mifeiy 5 t ButGodfhM redcemmy foul, faith he, which God will not do to the ungodly, a. Then hope of the refurre&ion is the godly mans chief confolation, and this was the hope of the Saints before Chrift came , afwell as fince : god fiatt redeem my foul from the power of the grave. 3. A Beleever hath good warrant to be perfwaded, not only of his reconciliation with God in this life , but alfo of the receiving of his foul after this life unto the fellowship of the glory of God, both in foul and body at the refurreefcion 5 God fhail redeem my foul from the power of the grave ; for he frail receive, me. Setiih

Verfe 16. Be not thou afraid when one ii made tkh y when the glory of his houfe uinereafed.

17. For when he dieth, he fhall carry nothing away : hid glory {ball not defcend after him.

i$. Though whiles he lived, he bleffed hit foul; and men will praife thee y when then doe [I well to thyfelf

19. Hejhallgo to the generation of hi* father*, they fball never fee tight.

20. CM an that is in honour , and underjlandeth not 9 n lihj the beajfs that perifh.

In the Iaft part by way of exhortation, to make ufe of this Dct*

j, he guardcth every Beleever againft every tentation which

may arHe from the profperky of the wicked, and hardfhip of the

godly in this life. Whence learn, 1. It is a tentatkm which

ftakcth

fliaketh the faith of the godly fometimes, when they fee the Hourifhing profp.rity of the wicked, and their 6wn daily affli&i-on i but this mould not move the godly , or make them iufpett themfelvesto be in awrongcouife., and the ungodly in a better way ; Se not thou afraid when one is made rich. i. The consideration of the fhortnefl'e both cf cur temporal calamity and o£ the ungodly mans profperky 5 both which ao end at death , if the Way to overcome the fbiefaid tentation ', For, When he dietb, fa JhoJt carry nothing awa) , hit glory frail wot defend after him. It is not fo wMi the godly, whote glory and happineffe meets him at death. J. A mans own felt-deceiving hearty meafiuing all hap" )»incfle by a mansprefent outward condition in the worlds and hearkening to the flatterie of fooles about him , who uie tocurric the favour of the wealthy , and love to have the like condition themfelves , is the caufe why the mifcrable man is kept flill in a golden dream, as if he were happie: Though while he lived , he lUflcd bit foul} and riten will praifc thee when thou doefi well to thy/elf; that is, when thou takeft a life of it while thou mayeft have it J yet he and they are altogether deceived. 4. The ungod~ ly at their death fhall go the rwy the ungodly went before them i to the place cf darkneffeand difconfolation 3 being repafate hoot God and his Sain s, and from all bletfednefle,and fhall never'have comfon in their mii'evablc eftate for eve** *, He fhall go to ihegeve-tation of bis fathers : And what fhall become of inch wretches ? Tbeyfoall never fee light ; that is, they fhall never fee the meaneft appearance or" any joy or comfort. 5. It is not honour/ but wane ohmderftanding, want of laving faith and wifdome, to'p+ovide for erernalllife, that puts man down from his excellency,-and 1 - de-barrcth him from bleffednefs *>Man that U in honour>and underfiani-ctb not j is the man here fet at nought, and declared to be Jarre fronruuebleffcdnefs. 6. Whatfoever naturall excellency be in man above the beafts ,♦ yet fin hath put him fo far down, thas except he get faVing knowledge of God , and be reconciled t6 him, he is in no better condition, at lead when he dieth 3 then a beaft 5 Man that is in honour, and uUie-tJianietb not , v life the bctfitbatperijhetb;

Z% PSAI,

PSAL L.

This pfalme is a citing of the vifiblc Kirk before God, the Judge of all the earth, (who at laft (hall jud^e all flefh in the day of judgement, and (hall take vengeance on the wicked,) to compears before the tribunal! of God; Now in time while niercy may be had , and now as then timeoufly to confider the Lords controverfie againft the fin-ners in his Kirk, that they may repent and be faved. And firft, the dreadfulnefle of the judgement fee down, verf.i.z^y Secondly, the citation of the parcie that is the vifiblc Kirk, with the witnefles, s>. 4, 5,6. Thirdly, there is a challenge of felf-work-juftitiaries, legalifts, and formal ceremonia-lirts, whodid reft upon outward good behaviour, and uponthe outwarddifcharge of theordinances $ as if the facrifices of the law or any performance of external duties had been fufficient to expiate fin, and juftifieaman, v. 7,8, 9,10,11,12,13* Fourthly, there is a direction unto them how to come off their legal! righteoufnefTe, and carnall wayofworfhip^ and to turne themfelves to the right way of worlhipping God in Spirit and truth, S/.14,1 . Fifthly, there is a challenge of thoTe who were groflely wicked, v. 16,17,18,19,20,21. And laftly, there is a direction alfo to them to repent , and to give God glory in time, with an encouragement to the upright Beleevers to go on their way, verf. 22, 23.

Vcr£ iv

Vcrfe KT" 1 H* mighty God^ even the LORD b«ti> |_ fyok*n ; and called the earth t from the rifing of the Sun y unto the going dorvn thereof.

3. G/it of Stony the perfection of beauty % God hath fhined>

3, Ot*r GodJhall come y and fhall not keep filence: a fire/ball devour before him^ anditjbaflbeverytempefta-eta round about him.

From the delcription of the terrour ofthe Loi\i osming to judge his vifible Kirk, for the flighting of the means of lalvati-on, and (oofenctfe of life and converfation$ Learn, 1. As the Lord is to judge the whole world one day, fo in a fpecial and moft exact manner will he judge thofe that draw neerto him in the pjrpr feflion of true Religion, as this whole.PlMme hollethioiih. 2. This ad vantage have they who live m c!- \,.IWe.Ki.k ,. they are warned of the judgement ere it come: ioi. as mny ether pin: s of Scripture 3 To this Pialme is:: rexprejfe warning piece to the Kirk to ore^e for judgement. 3. The te;rible procefle o. the day oi Gods fevere jirdgcn ent , beiag well meditated upori^ is a fpecial means to waken mens consciences to take courfe about their finnes in time, that they m iy be pardpnea, and their perfons reconciled . which isthefeope ovrhe whole doctrine delivered in this Pi l«nc. a. The myftery of the g rrible day of ge-

nerall judgetn nc is to be learned from rhe Scriptures , and ex* prefle predictions thereof in Cons word : The authorny,weight, (Cjrtainry and efficacy whereof ftowes from, and depends upon God almighty only ; The mighty God, even the Lord b xbfpofcn. f. God Almighty the Sovereigne j-dge o.fafl the ea th hath appointed, that all who ever took i ire , in whatfoever time or place they have lived in the world, (hall compete before his Majcfty in the appointed time 3 The Lord hath jpofien 5 a?id cal'ed the earth from the rifing of the Sun , unto the going down thereof. 6. The tn.e viable Kirk where-Gods ordinances are fet up , as he hath appointed, where his word is purely preached , is the moft beau-titull thing under heaven , and there is Gcdsgjoiy let forth, ami manifefted more clearly then in all the Lords handyworte betide in heaven or earth 5 Therefore is the .place of the Lords Temple here io highly commende i, ana Sion edited the perfection of beau* tjy becaufe oftjie glory of God fundry wayes revealed the;e^ Qui

pfsioi God hath Jbined, faith he, in regard of the clear manife? itation of his will, fpecjally in the matter now in hand about the clay of judgement. 7« Men will take no heed unto what the word ofthe Lord declared! 3 till the authority fupremacy, om-nipotency and juftice of God the Judge be apprehended by' them, and the great day of his terrible judgement be looked up®n as a thing which (hall moft certainly come to pafle at the time appointed ; Therefore is it fai& Qur God fall come and fall not licep fi* lence. 8. So many as are reconciled with God , and have clofed uprightly with him in the Covenant of Grace , may look upon the day of judgement without terrour or perplexity 5 yea, and with "comfort and confident hope to finde the Judge gracious to them according to the Tenour ofthe Covenant, even their God : Owe (jod, faith the Prophet, fall come. 9. Look how fearfujl and terrible trie Lord did (hew himfelf at the giving out of the Law, no leflc terrible (hall he be in the execution thereof, in the day of judging all thofe whofe. finnes (hall be found not pardoned before ; A fire fall devour before him , and it fall be very tempeftuout about him.

Verfe 4. He Jhall call to the heavens from above % Mel to the earthy that he majjqdge his people.

5. gather my Saints together unto me; thofe that have mads, a Covenant with me by [acrifce.

6. And the heavens fyall declare his rightfoufnejfe % Tor Godis judge him/elf. Selah,

In the fecond place, he fets down the citation, and fummoning Jn of officers, parties, and witnefles, to mike all ready for the judging of all the world , but in fpeciall of the people who have given up their name to God , and have made a Covenant with him, and profefled themfelves to be his peoples who (hall finde all of them at laft, that they have hadto do with a righteous Judge. Whence ktirn> 1. In the great day ofthe laft judgement Heaven and Earth, and all the Elements (hall be moved to render up all whom they have received in cuftody. unto that day; The Lord fall call to the Heavens from above, and to the Earth. 2. we need not to queftion hew all the dead mail be raifed, hovy fouls fhall be reunited to their bodies, how they (hall all be gathered together, and how fuch like great things (hall come to paflc, one word refolves all,- He Jhall ull to the Heavens , and to the ' : - ■ ■ ' " Earth*

Sard). For as at a word all were made : fo at a word , Co foon as he (hall call, and give out order for compearance, the dead ihall be raifed, and all mall compear,good Angels, and wicked fpirits, ail men, good and evil, young and old, e very reafonable and underftanding creature in Heaven and earth by his almighty power fliall be made quickly to prefcntthcmielves; He Jhall call, isfufficient to efFeft whatfoever he will. 3. Whan (hall be the courfe that the Judge (hall follow about thofe who have not heard of him, or who have heard of him, and lived without the Kirk, is not the main matter which the Lords people mould enquire for ; but this is their part to know,to wit>what,concernctii themfelves 5 therefore doth rhe Lord fay no more h£re but He jhdU call to the Helens and to the earth , that be may judge bU people. 4. All who are in Covenant with God , every Member of the vifible Kirk are Saints by calling; God alloweth this ftile upon them,becauie they are dedicated and confecrated to him, b^-caufethey are all by fpeciall vow obliged to be Saints j all make profeflion of their purpofe to be fuch \ alldocfteem of themfelves , and will have allowed unto them by others the efti-mation of Gods people, whatfoever be their delervingj therefore faith he, Gather my Saints tegether unto me. 4. At how great a diftance foever, whether of time or place, God$ people by orcfefiion have lived in this world , all of them fhall be affemblcd together at length to the judgement of that great day ; fome to the judgement of abfolution, fome to the judgement ot condemnation , good ani bad, all mall be gathered before the* Judge at once ; Gather my Saints together unto me. f. The Lord fhall not want Officers, Serjeants, and Servants fufficient for this work, he hath Angels innumerable who fhall efted what he giveth order unto them tor > Gatbor ye my faints tegether. 6. The extcrnall Covenant with God is the ground of the title and honour of Saint mip, and Kirk-Member-ftiip s whofoever are in vifible Covenant with God, are calle4 by his allowance; his Saints for fo here he doth expound whorti he callcth his Saints > even all rhofe who have made a Covenant witbbimbyfacrifice. 7. No Covenant canbemade with God without the inteipofing of, or profefled refped unto a facrifice, according as the Lord did teach his people in the type and fhadovv of the ceremonial facrififing 5 tor as God by appointing a facr>-fice to be oftered by his people would have every Covenanter to acknowledge and profefle that he was worthy to die for his (\ns^ £nd that it behoyed him to fiie to a furctie to Aj,c for him , (eyea

3* ia

to the promised Meffiah Jcfus Chrift, that Lamb of ©cd which was flaine from the beginning of the world , to take away the finnes of the worlds ) and to confecratc {limfelf wholly to Gods fervice 5" Co dcth the Lord require ftiil the lame things of every Covenanter, from every one of his people ; and whofoever doprofeffe their accepting ot the conditions of the Covenant , are called thofe that have made a Covenant yphb Cjoi by ficrijice. 8. In that generall judgement, the wife framing the world, the confiant courfe of governing of ir , the appointing of the feafons of Summer and Winter, Spring-time and Harveft , the ranking of the Sun to fhine, and the raine to tall upon all, and the fur ni filing of all with food and good things, (hall be witnefTcs for Go is part toward all men , and fo the bea-yens fball declare bit rigbtcoufveffe 9. No man (hall be injured ,.. nor fuffer wrongfully tha; day; yea, ait~men (kill have yvrongs done to them repiiredj all rewards (liall be given accord*-$ng as the word of the Lord hath faia : For Qod is Judge bimjelf. Sehk.

Verfe 7. Hear^ 0 my peopU ^ and Ivpilltteak^ (X Jfrael , and I Voill tefiifie againsl thee : / am God, even thy God,

Having now foretold his people, that there (hall be certainly a great day of judging of all rrien , and fpecially of his Covenanted people ; he entereth here in a friendly manner of controverfie with his/ifible Kirk or profefledpeople-3 that they might repent and finde mercy in time, before they were brought to the tribunal of fevcre jufticc : And firft he ufeth a preface directing his (pecch to iuch as were of a better outward behaviour ihen the worft , to wit, fuch as tcufted in their own works , and Ipecially in the externall-facrificesand ceremonies of the Law without looking to the end and intent thereof $ as if by thofe externall facritices their fins had been expiated, and God fully fatisried for them. Whence lam, 1. A people fettled upon the dregs of their carnal cuftomes, in fecurity and prefumption, cannot be moved to enter in consideration of then* waves, or in futpicion of their dangerous condition, except the Lord doth (hew himlelf to them, and rip up their confeience 5 therefore faith he to them, Hearj 0 my people, and I mil [pea /<.. 1. Albeit the Lord doth fufter fuch as arc without the Kirk , ftrangers to the Covenant iniCommon-wenhhpfJ^ci^.to lie, Hill in thek finnes* y&

i mil he debate hts quarrel againft his own people, which is no fmall mercy; 0 Tfracl I I will teftifie againft thee. $. The Covenant mad-: with God, joyned with his abfolute Sovereignty, do 17 double r>onds upon Gods people for the obedience of faith, 0 b|j ; not to feek falvatian otherwiyes then he doth

teach"? but toworihip and icrve him as he appointed!; tor, ' I am God, even tby God^ faith the Lord. 4. Whatfoever quarrel th>: Lord has againft his people for not keeping Covenant made with Mm , yet To Ions, as there is hope of repentance, he will not diffolve the Covenant, but will offer the benefit thereof unto them ; for when the Lord hath faid, I will teftifie againft thecjte. addcth, I am God, even thy Gfl^ver. 11.

Verf. 8. I will not reprove thee for thy facrifices, or thy burnt • offerings , to have been Continually before me.

9. / mil take no bullock out of thy houfe y nov he-goats put of thy folds*

jo. For every be aft of the Forreft is mine, and the cartel upon a thou fan a hills.

11.7 know all the fowls of the mountains 3 and the mlde beaft s of the field are mine.

12- if I were hungry, 1 would not tell thee ; for the tyorldu mine, andtheiulneff thereof.

13. Will Ieat the fic/b of bult^ or drink the blood of noats ?

After the preface, the Lord paffeth by the reproof for much neglect, even in the external performances of outward ordinances, and challengeth only their relying upon the outward work, and their putting a fort of merit upon their work, as if they minded to oblige God unto them by their outward performances. Whence learn, i. Albeit there be jufl: reafon to challenge men for coming fliort of their duty in the difcharge of outward ordinances y yet when that is not the maine fault, or when the mending of that fault will not fatisfie God, he will wave that challenge for theprefent, and fallen upon their chief fins> J will not reprove thee for thy facrifices, or thy burnt-offering which fiould have been continually before me. 2. As men arc ordinarily little fenfible of their omiflions of duties^ foarc ;hey ready to pveryalue their outward

ward performances, and to think that what they do In this kind rtiall be vtry acceptable to God, as the carnal Ifraelites here challenged, did conceive their bullocks and goats out of their boufes er folds ihouldhave been efteemeci by God of smu^h worth, as they who offered them did put upon thenu 3. That which is mofl: efteerned of by men, without allowance of God,is ibomination to God: fuch were the external facrifices of carnal Ifraelites, who refted upon the offering of external facviiices, without looknig to that only true facrihe of the Mediator represented thereby: I mil U\t no bullock out of thy i oufc, nor he-gout cut of thy fold. 4. It is a difeafe of foolimman, co think with himlelf that God is obliged to him when he orYereth unto God any part of his goods , when in the mean time a man hath nothing but what God hath given unto him, and which is The J^ords by primitive right; Every bcj.fi of the fone ft U mine, mi the uttel upon a tboufand bills. $. Albeit all men profefs that they acknowledge God to be owner of all the creatures,becaufe he hath made them allsyet their practice many ways doth bewray their heart-ignorance in this point,and that they have need to be taught this leflbn from God, / k.now all the fowU of the mountains, and thcmldbeaftsof the field are mine. 6. Unrenewed men cannot chufe but have grofs conceptions of God, and to think of him after their own fancie as the carnal Ifraelites conceived that a fat facrifice was as acceptable to God, as a fat dinner was to them-* felves; but God is not likeman,and Qandeth in no need of fupply from man or from any of the creatures; all of them have their being and dependance on God, to difpofeof them, and bellow them on whom he will at his pleafure, He is not hungry ; and put the cafe hehadamindetoferve himfelf of any of the creatures, yet he needs not employ man for that efteft; for,The earth isthe Lords and the fulnefs thereof* 7. The Lord difdaineth the fleftily conceits which men have to fatisfiehis jufticp for their fins by any thing that man can offer unto, him as imaginations unbefeemjng a reafonable man; JVM I eat the flcjh of bulls, or drinli th% blow of goats ?

Verf. 14. Offer unto God thm[giving y andfutjthj vows unto the mofl High.

15. And call upon we in the day of trouble, I mil de-liver thee^ and thou (halt glorifie me. In the third place^he exhorteth them tQ forftke this carnal way © f

feek-

i fccking faivation, and fctteth them upon the light courfe of true blcflednefs and fpiritual fcrvice. Whence learn, i. The way of falvation and of Gods worfhip is fpiritual,and maypoffibly be pjfembled and furthered by external bodily exercifes, but does not ftand on things external > and to/peak it more particularly, God will have the man whole perfon and fcrvice he will accept to be fenfible of his own want of every good thing, and inability to furnifh to himfelf any thing which he lacketh,and to acknowledge God only tobetheall-fufficientfountaine of grace and of every good donation, and to feek what he hath need of from God, and to depend upon his grace when he hath fought it, and to return the praife of Gods free and gracious gift unto him when he hath received itjfor all thi$ is prefuppofed and imported in this offering of thanks, Offer unto God tbankfgiving; to wit, foreverypoinc and paflage of his undeferved favour: and this he calleth for, be* caufe this offering of the facrifice of praife and thanks, was more acceptable to God then their Ceremonial facrifices of flain beads. %. Godwill have the man, whofe perfon and fervice he will ac-? cept, to make confeience 'of all his lawful vowes made unto God,infpecialof his Covenant-vow made forgiving God the obedience of faith all the dayes of his life, which vow true woi-fliippers ufe upon fundry occasions folemnly to renew : Offer unto God thanfifgivingy and pay thy vows unto the mo(l high Gcl m J, Were a man never fo faithful and upright in the Lords fervice f yet he is not exempted from trouble, for reafons concerning God? glory, good of the perfon troubled, and benefit of others; this the Lord holdeth forth in preparing their mindes, by making mention unto believers of a day of trouble. 4. Among other cnd$ of the Lords fending trouble, this is one, to make the believer in the fenfe of his need to make ufe of his Covenant with >God, and by faith to drawneer to him in prayer for help and relief iq due iim^Qallupon me in the day of thy trouble. %. The true believer and depender upon the fure and rich gracp of God, cannot poffibly fall in any trouble out of which he (hall not be delivered, but whatfoever evil come, he may be praying to God, yea he fhall be (felivered, Call upon me in the day of trouble , I will deliver thee. What more abfolute promife can be made to a believing fuppli-cant ? 6. A believing fupplicant (hall not only be gracioully answered to his petition, and fo have caufe of praifing God, but alfo fhall have grace in efteft to praife God, And thou flult glorife me,

Veif,

Verf. \6. But unto the wicked, God faith, what haft thon to do to declare my flames or that thou (hould-eft take my Covenant in thy mouth.

17. Seeing thou hate ft inftruttion, and cafteft my Words behhide thee.

18. When thou fawe ft a thief, then thou confent -edft with him, and haft been partaker with the adulterers.

19. Thougiveft thy mouth to evil % and thy town* frameth deceit.

20. Jhoufttteft and fpeakefl againft thy brother: thou ftandereft thine own mothers Jon.

21. Thefe things haft thou done, and I k*pt filence ; thou thoughteft that I was altogethe^fuch a one as thy

felf: but I will reprove thee, andfet them in order before thine eyes.

In the fiift place, the Lord pleadetji mercifully with the grof$ firmer and fcandulcus liver, for abufing thispiiviledgeof the Covenant by hi* lewd convention and fecure Atheifme \ that he being convinced of his (in., might repent, andefchew the wrarh which is to come. Whence learn, i- To fuch as profefs Re i-gion, and obferve the outward ordinances thereof, and do not live fcandaloufly; the Lord howioever he Jets them know he is not well pleafed with their way,yct he doth fpeak unto them more mildly, becaufe it is poflible fome beloved Lapdiceans, young and unskilful true converts may be guilty of no fmall mcafure of dead formality; buttofuchas live in grofs fcandalouslins, the Lord fpeaketh more roughly, calling them by the nnme'of wicked* But unto the wiifyed God faith.' 2. Such is the deceivcablenefs of fin, and the deceit of the heartland the power of Saran upon fecure fin ners, that they can without remorfe of confeience pre-fefs the true Religion.pretend to a Covenant with God, and yet live loofly as Pagans or Aihcijts : They tah^c Gods Covenant in their moutb f and mean time do hate inftruclioH, and caftGods ■fiords behind them. 3. Such as by their lewd converfation do give an open affront to their Religion, are fo deteftable to God, that he accomptcth them wicked haters of reformation, conrcmr §erspf Scripture, difgraccrs of their holy profeffion ; and fuchas

he

will cake no Religious fcrvicc of their hand , Uuto the wL^ed

fahb, wbaihajttbo to do to dec lure ray ftatutei, or that thou

' jhouUeji take my Covenant in thy outb> feeing thou hateft in-

; ion. and cafteft my wordy bchinde thee. 4. Albert men do

tnethe Covenant,and defer vc 10 be thruft out of it as unworthy to have the benefit or" it, or to be fuffered any more to pro-fefs it y ya Gad wiU not give up with them haftily, but will after a fiicndly manner declare to them their fin and mifdeferving, thtt tkeir conrcience maybe moved towards repentance 5 What hx\i tbou to do to tal^e my covenant in tby mouthy feeing thou hatefi

uttion. 5. The man that cafteth Gods word bchinde him> cannot chufc but fe.ve a woile mailer, and be made (lave to his lufts, and be led away to every fin, as tentation doth lead him, he will not Itand to be a greedy thief, and a filthy adulterer, \ver. 1S, and to Ioofe his tongue to all the evils whereunto the tongue can fcrve.ver. 19. yea and to become unnatural to thofe with whom he is bound in ncareft bonds of blood, ver. 20. 6. Such is the Lords patience, that he doth oft-times endure very long horrible provocations of thofe that are in outward Covenant with him, that by his lon?-iufferin.* he may lead them to repentance : Theft things thou didjUand I l{€ptfilence. 7. When men do not profit .by the means which mould lead them to repentance, they grow wone for the means, mo e feeure and hardened in their ill waves, and more godlefs in all eipe<fts: Tbou thought eft I was altogether fucb 1 one as tby felf. 8. "Such as live a loofe life with a profeffi-onot- Religion under the /hiring light of Gods word, do not keep tlfcir conferences cjuie^o.hervvayes then by transforming God into an idol afier tfjeir own fancy,ana by feigning him n be what heisnot, and not to be what he deckieih hirnidt to be ; Thou'. \thoughteft that I was altogether fmb a, one as thy felfi that is to (fay, No more difpleafcd with thy wayes then tbou thy jelf was. 9. Although the Loid keep filence for a time, yet he will at length 'let the {inner know by his word and rods, how difpleafed he is at \C\n:But I will reprove tbecyhih the Lord. 1 o.Sins forgotten call (behind backhand caft together in cenfufion by the fe:ure (Inner, ihallintheday or Gods :eda>ning be brought to remembrance with time, place, and'otiiei circuViftences, and fd p/efentedta ! the con'cicnce, as the finnerfhaH no: be able to lookr.afide horn his fearful accufation and ditty, I #ill fet them in order, before tbhie eyes.

Verf. 22. Now eonfider thi* 1 je that forget God.

left

left 1 tear you in pieces y and there be mne to Jei liver.

z$. TVhofoofferethpraife, glorifiethme : and to him that ordereth his conversion aright, mil 1 fberp the falvation of God*

In the laft place, the Lord being loath to diflblve the Covenant, or to deftroy thofe that are in the uifible Kirk- how wicked foever, exhorteth them to repentance while it is time,before he call them off utterly, and fo fheweththem the way of returning home to him, as he doth alfo encourage fuch as at e fincere. worfhippers of him to go on. Whence learn, i. The Lords controvercfis with his people,and threatning of wrath upon them,do carry much Iovre and mercy in their bofome 5 it is admirable that fuch offers cf grace and reconciliation are made by God after fo juft and fearful challenges., as here we read. 2. As the affe&ionate remembrance ofGcdis an aw-band to keep from fin, arid afpurto all duties; and as conlideration of Gods word is a means to waken the conscience, and affeft the heart with high and right thoughts of God ; fo the forgetting of God, and confideration of what is neceflfary, cafts a man open to all fin, and makes way for his de-Itruftionj Qonfidcr this, ye that forget God, left 1 tear you in fieces. 3 i If they who have gone far away from God ,do not hafte them home unto him, they are like to meet with judgement mer-cilefs, and to finde no opportunity or time granted as r hey could wifh to repent, Confider, left 1 tc&ryou in pieces, end there be none to d liver you. 4. To fet men on work to endeavour the honour of God by worfhipping him in Spirit, and to confer me their outward actions of the body to the rule of Gods word, is the fcope of all Gods pleading with his own people* for his controvcrfie is clo* fedwithadire&iontoali, toglorffc God, and to order their com* verfation aright, f. That man worfhippeth God in Spirit, who giveth him the praife of his jufticc, in acknowledging his 6n£ againft Gods law, and his ill defervings intbecourfe or daily renewed repentance, and who 'giveth unto God the praife of his* grace and mercy, in flying to the refuge fet before him in the Gofpel, in the courfe of daily renewed aftscf faithinChuil? and he who giveth God the praife of his bolinefs in ftudying daily to mortifie the luftsoftheflefh by his Spirit, and to be renewed in his minde and affeSions,- and in a word, he who in his tfltrtandaffiftionsftudkvh to give God the honour of alibis at- *

tribmis

PSAL. L. „ 351

I tributes y tides > or name, by whatfoever occadon manifefted to ' him : This is the woifhipper of God in Spirit and Truth 3 whom the Lord by all his dealing with his people is feeking to form and gain to himfelf, WbofoofferethpAifaglorifietb me. 6. Sincere \ endeavour to worfhip God in Spirit, is belt feen in a mans care to conforms his life and bodily actions to the rule of iiods word » for, with glorifying of God he joyneth here, ordering bis convert I fuion aright. 7. Wholbever (hall let himfelf to be Gods fervant , in Spirit and Truth, fliallfinde God to he his Saviour to theut-termoft, how godlefsfoever, how vile foever he hath been; If he j ihall prepare himfelf againft the dreadful day of Judgementjby receiving the offer of grace in Jefus Chrift, with all the fulne&of : the ftlvation of God in himj, and in Chrifts ftcength ihall ftudy to brinp forth the fruits of his faith in a blameleis convention* he fliallundoubtedly befaved : for God hath faid, JVbofo offeretk the facrifici of praife, glorifies me; and to bim vobo orderetb his conversion aright, will Ifhcw the privation of God. Amen, jiAmcn.

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