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TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE,

THE

EARLE

OF

Grace and Peace through Chrifl fefus*

Oij Right Ityble Lord,

^Neofthefpeciall motives of my refolution, to follow this work in parcells, was the apparent hazard, that ifin this time of trou. ble, and of my old age, I fhould have delayed to put forth fomc part of it, till all had been ready, the whole

A?

might

The Efiftle Dedicatory.

might have been mifcarried, or marred by fomepafTage of providence, which might have befallen me. But feeing it hath pleafed the Lord to fpare my life x and my health, and my liberty in his fervfce, afc tainted not the example of grave Authors befope me to ctivide the whole Book of the Pfalnrs into three 'fifties • and to dedicatettfdrj^part to feverall per-fohs: So Ljudgedi it good thrift to takeoccafion thereby, to teftifi£ my bound duty and iefpeft, to fo many of the Noble friends otltion^ as I could overtake,and th& : Mth a minde to honour all the reft^who have put their fhoulder to the work of fefclitig R.digi^ fc 4nd ttie King-dome of Chrift among us: tvhofe labours, albeit theylihould have no other fruit in out time, then the right ftateing of the gueflion between us and all adVerfaries df *he hkz do&tf nfej 3vor-ihip, and difciplineof Chrifig A6ufe 3 as it is fee down in the Confe/fcoboffaicli; in thedire&o-ry for publick wqrfhip, and in the Rules of Go* vernment of Chrifts Church, drawn ionh from Scripture warranty yet even that much is worth all the expenfe of vvhatfoevcr is bellowed, by any,or all the Lords worthies, upon Religion. And howfoever the Lord doth claimCjancl call for the whole glory of this work to himfelfe alone, by ftaining the pride jofthe glory of all inftruments whereof he hath

jriade

The EpifileDedicatory'.

made ufe about it (asnowappearethj left the gloryduetohimfelfein all and every one of thepaffages of promoting the fame fhould be ccehpfed, yet will he never utterly rejeft this fervice,nordifallow the upright endeavours of his fervants therein j but will in his own time, and way, both advance it, and bear witnelTe to his faithfull fervants in and about it a wherefoe-ver he hath a minde to keep houfe,or to Reigne as King in Sion. Yea, he will alfo make it known to the world, that as on the one hand, he will not want a vifible Kingdome in the world, (though not of this world ) fo on the other. hand,that his Kingdome mall be fo farre from hindring the civill Government of Magiftrates, where it hath place, that by thecontrary it mall be a chiefe prop, and pillar of every Kingdome, where it is received.

In this number of upright promoters of the Kingdome of Chrift, Yoar Lord-fliip hath been alwayes looked upon all the time of our late troubles, as one very eminent: andlfince my firfl: admiffion into your Lordfhips acquaintance, have obferved your conftant care and endeavour, as to know what was the right indifficile queftions, fo alfo to hold it faft according to your power, after you had difcovered ir. Which as it may be your Lordmips comfort, fo is it your commenda-

A 4 tion,

the Epiftle Dedicatory.

tion, and ail mens duty to do the like, efpeciaU ly in this dangerous rime, wherein finnes pra-difed, and not repented of, are fofeverely and juftly puniflied, by Gods giving over the impe. nitent to the open profefling and defending of their unrepented faults; for God injufticeand wifdom, has fufFered the hedges of his Vineyard to be broken down, and the holy difci-pline of his houfc to be fo fee at nought by all forts of perfqis, that every fpirit of errour, having open way to come in at the breach, he might thereby try andexercifeallhis people, who ftand in Covenant with him byProfcffion qnd reclaim or punifli fuch as live in errour: Andnowonperthathe fofhoulddo, for when there is fo little ufe made of the holy Ordinances of Religion, when the Scriptures are either not read, or not efteemed of, when the forme of godlinefle is feparated from upright endeavour to feel and fhew forth the life and power of it, when the grace of theGofpel is turned into wantonneffe, and men are become fo much the more bold to fin, as they do hearc much of the mercifulnefTe of God, when every divine pzwh is either not beleeved at all, or receive^ only with humane and temporary faith: whenChrift is looked upon by raauy pniy as a man, and not as God manifeftedin the flefh, not as the eternal Son of God, who

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The Epiftk. Dedicator).

from everlafting was with God, and was God, Co-worker in the Creation, with the Father and the Spirit, whenChrift is confeflcd to be Chrift, but not employed as Mediatour^ or fas if men had need of him) not made ufe of in his Offices 5 when many docafl: open their foules unto, and feek after another fpirit then the Spirit of truth, the Comforter, the Holy Ghoft, who according to the Scriptures, both wounds and heales the confeiences of belee-vers, and fanftifieth the heart and converfation of all them that come to God through Chrift. In this time (I fay ) when thefe and many o-ther ungodly practices of men, walking after the imagination of their own hearr, do fo a-bound} whar wonder ir it that the Lord hath let loofe fo many unclean fpirits, as no hiftory can (hew more in fo fliort a time in any age, or in any place of the world, by whofe ranging up and down among us, God is about to make manifeft the ftability and finceriry of the faith of them, who are approved, and to take trial of others, (in whom fuch damnable practices, as by the do&rine of devils,are now openly defended, will be found unrepented)whether after they (hall hear their ungodly pranks maintained and patmnized, by fotne Sed-mafter, HeretickorSchifmatick, they will abhor fuch abominable do&rine, and repent their owne

forme?

The Epifile Dedicatory.

former mif-deeds, which have fpoken the Ian -guage of fbme of thofe vile errours; Or whether they will juftifie their own faults,(according as thei r Sett-matters do teach them to do,) either by defpifing all the Ordinances, and lifting themfeives above the fame, or by reje&ing the com mands and cords of the moral Law, will Ioofe themfeives from the obedience thereof, as if-Chrift had freed the believer from the command and authority of the Law, no leffe then from the Covenant and curfe thereof 5 or by blafphcming the Scripture, will cry down the truth, and the ufe and power of it 5 or by calling every truth in qucfl ion, will exempt themfeives from the bonds of all Religion; or will walk after the imagination of their own heart, and make their own conceits their Oracle, their fmcic their faith, and their lufts their God; or will, by oppofing one or other of the Perfons of the Godhead, deny and feparate the indivi-fible Efface of one God in three Perfons} or by receiving the do&rine of fome of thofe many lefier antichrifts which are in the world, will incorporate themfeives in the great myfti-calbody of that one Antichrift, fpoken of in Scripture* or in a word, will by rcjc&ing the truth, and not receiving of it in love, when it is offered, bring in upon themfeives ftrong delu-fions, and give a powerful poff(lion of them*

(elves

felvtt to the devil j whereby he may fo rule in them, as to make them vent whatioevcr hell candevife, totfredifhoriour'of God and Christian Religion, that all fuch may be damttcd, as for their not receiving the truth in love, fo alfo for their takingpleafujre in unrightcoflfnefle, according as the Apoftfe did prophecie fiiould come to pa(fe,Vb Tkftt. i f,. i > •

In fuch a time therefore a$ this is, wherein the LdrtihrhfaiklUng^ who are of God, and who not, who do know God, and who not; who do follow the Spirit of truth, and who are led by thefpiritoferrour, and is deciphering them by this infallible mark which the Apoftkgivetb, I ]ohn\6. that the one giveth a beleeving and obediential eare to tfa Penmen of holy Scripture * the other doth not fo • what a mercie, yea, what an honour and happinefTe is it for the Lords children, to make fuch ufe of a felled Miniftry (which is the great gift of Chrjft beftowed upon his Church,) as not to be carried about with every winde of do&rine, Eph. 4. u, 12, 15, 14. not to be led away with the errour of the wicked, nor fall from their own fted-fiftncfle, but to'grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jefus Chrift, 2 Pet. 3. jj y 18, Which grace, and honour, and happinefTe, that it amy

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'the Epijtle Dedicatory.

hot only continue Iwith your Lord/hip, but alfo be granted to all thofe that love our Lord Jefus Chrift in Sincerity, is the prayerof

Tour Lordjhips ready Servant in the Cojpel,

David Dickson.

THE

T HE

EPISTLE

TO THE

Reader.

i/j

CHRISTIAN READER,

N the two former parts of this wer\> lhavefpohgnmy mindeto thee, in relation to this brief Explication of the Pfalmes i 1 will not here hgep thee up in the entry of this lafl part, nor fay any more untothee,fa<ve this, It is our bound duty, toblefshim that inhabit-eth thepraifesof Ifrael, who willhaveaU the Mourners in Sionto be comforted and who, ashe hath prepared in this mountain untoall people, Ik.25. 6. a feaft

To the Reader. of fat things, a feaft of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined, by be-flowing Chriji, and the unfearchable rich-es of his grace, upon every Penitent who fleeth to him for delivery from fin and' wrath ; fo hath he alfo prepared to every fitch font the excellent fongs ofSion, to encreafe theirfeflival gladnefs, and for e-videncing ofhtspurpofe to give unto them everlafiing joy, after this life is ended i bath put in their hands for their comfort in every condition, wherein they can be in this prefent life and valley of tears) this f&eetfmdltd bundle of Pfalmes; wherein he hath made his worlds of mercy and of judgement thepawnes of his promi-fis, for compleat happinefs unto them, and alfo of the utter overthrow and perdition of all their enemies, and hath appointed both mercy and judgement to be the matter, as of their joy, foofhisowne glory in the Church, to be lifted up as a fieri fee upon the Altar Chriji Jefus, by the

To the Reader.

voice ofhis people, fznging with grace to him, both alone and in company, and ma-Jung melody in their hearts: therefore as in the changes of our own particular private condition, we have liberty to choofe for our ufefuch parts of the Pfalmes, as dofpeakjnojl near to ourprefent cafe : So let hs be bound in public^ meetings of the Church, tojoyne with the Congregation in finging every truth uttered by Gods Spirit in the Pfalmes, as we are direSied by the Minifier and mouth of the meeting, for glorifying of him, who hath done, promifed, threaten ed,and taught, whatfoever is ther-in exprejjed', Kemembring that his Prai-fes are the pillars of our faith; and that his joy is ourflrength; and that thofe calves of our lips, are acceptable facrifces to God through Jefns Chriji, in and for whom

I am thy Servant in the Work of the Gofpel,

David' Dick son.

CO A Brief

EXPLICATION

Upon the laft Fifty

Pfalmes.

PSALM CI.

Avidy not being as yet entered in poffeffion of his Kingdome, doth by dire&ion of the holy Spirit, fall upon a confederation of the duties of a righteous Prince, which he fettethdown as a rule, to be followed by himfelf and all Magiftratcs, obliging himfelf, to endeavour to conforme his Government thereto: wherein he is but a type and fhadow of Chrift, in whom alone the perfect performance of the duties here promifed are to be found* The principal duties which David undertaketh to difcharge* maybe, for orders fake, reduced to the number of eight, according to the number of the verfes.

Ver. i. T Will fmg of merey and judgement, unto X thee, 0 LORD, mil I fmg.

The firft duty which he undertaketh, is, to delight himfelf in all royal venues, required ior the Government of good or bad fubjefts > p and to make thofe duties his Song; and to approve

t* himftJ

z PSALME CI.

himfelf to God for the fincerity of his intention in this undertaking. Whence learn, 1. All the duties of righteous Government may be comprehended under thefe two heads, mercy and judgement t for, mercy taketh in the care of the poor, needy, op-prelfed or injured; and judgement taketh in the care of equity, and righteous dealing among the fubje&s, with the rewarding of the good, and punifliing of evil doers : mercy provideth for all good things which the fubjeft needeth, and judgement provideth for their fecurity, and for removing whatfocver evill may trouble them 5 I mil fmg (faith he) of mercy and judgement. 2. Such as are defigned unto any calling, especially any publick charge, ihould prepare themfelves for it: partly, by laying before themfelves the duties belonging to the right difcharge of fuch a calling: and partly,by bending of their hearts, and laying engagements on their fpirits, for the faithful difcharge thereof* for fo much doth Davids example hereteach us. 3 .Duties of a mans calling, fhould both be ftudied unto, and discharged with fomecheavfulnefleandreadinefleofmindes for, IrviUfing of mercy and judgement, importeth fo much. 4. As it is expedient for the peoples bettet acceptance of a man to a publike charge,that his purpofe to difcharge his duty therein be publifhed; foalfo it is expedient for the mans ftirring up and fattening to Jiis duty, that he engage his heart unto God 5 for, fo doth Davids example teach us: Untotbce, OLORD* witllfing.

Ver.2. I will behave my felf Vvifely in a perfett voaj \ Owhen mlt thou come unto me f 1 mil walk Vvithin my hotife Veith a per(e61 heart.

The fecond duty which he undertaketh, when God ihallcoroe unto him to performe his promife, and put him in pofleflion of the Kingdome, is, that he will caft a copie to all the fubjefts, of godly and wife behaviour in his own perfon and family, according to the rule of Gods Word. Whence learn, i.Hc that pur-poieth to carry a publick charge well, mull difcharge the duty of a private man well in his own perfon, and make hisownper-fonal carriage exemplary to all who (hall hear of him : for fo doth *Davids undertaking here teach us. 2. It is neceflary for our per-lonal carriage, and convening with others, that we make the Lords commands our Rule; for that is a perfect way'; and that we ftudie ;o make application of general rules prudently, according

PSALME CI. J

ing tothecircumftancesoftime, place and pcrfon ; for, this i^ wifdome, as Davids example doth teach : / will behave my [elf wifely in aperfeft way. $. Such as belecve Gods pmmifes, do long to have the performance of them, as we fee in David, who had a promise of the Kingdome, and looked long for it: O when wilt tbdu come unto me ? 4 # In the performance of promises, the Lord maketh his approaches nearer and nearer unto «th£ beleever^and then (hall be the neareft communion,when God flial perform all that he hath promifed unto us : for David calleth the giving unto him the pofleflion of the promifed Kingdome, Go Js coming unto bim: 0 when wilt thou come unto me? (A mans holineile, righteoufnclfe and wifdome>is put to proof by his behaviour to his domefticks, with whom he doth moll frequently and imirely converfe : for herein doth David promife to give evidence of bis walking wifely ina perfedway : I will walfl within my houfe with a perfect heart. 6. To compfeat a mans (incerityjit is neceflary not only that he have a perfect way, and a prudent carriage in it, but alfothathc be upright in his hearr, intentions^ ends and motives 5 therefore David zidtih, I will walk with a per felt heart.

Ver, 3 1 Will fet no wicked thing before mine eyes: 1 hate the work^ of thtm that tnrn afide, it (ball not cleave to me.

The third duty undertaken i$,tbat he will be far from plotting of any wicked thing, and far from communion with any per -fonsin an evil eourfe* which is a proof of the uprightnefle of his heart, undertaken in the former verfes. Whence leart y i.A wicked dehgne is inconfiftent with uprightnefle of heart, which hath an aime at pleating of God, and ac nothing elle but what he will allow: I will fet no wicfad thing before mine eyes, z A man can hardly be free of an evil courier he flial be tempted unto it, except he hate and abhor fuchcourfes in other mens practices; forhewhoisrefolved to be upright, ihould fay truly,! bate the work of them that turn afidc. 5. Albeit an upright heart may be at unawares intanglcd in a (inful courfe > yet fo loon as he doth perceive ic to be fuch, he will quit its therefore after David Jiathfaid, He hateth the work of them that turn afde } hcaddeth, It (hall not cleave 1% mc*

B a Vtf.

Ver. 3. tsffroward heart fba/l depart from me, 1 Will not know* wicked per [on.

The fourth duty undertaken is, in relation to the Court and places of truft : he will not have in his company, nor will coun* tenance a pcrverfe or wicked yziion'jWbcnceJLcaMjX. Among the vices of the heart, frowardnefle, perverfeneffe and wickedneiTe, are moft of all to be efchewed and abhorred, becaufe thofe evils do harden the heart againft admonition, and do make rt incorrigible in an evil courfc,albeit a better courfe be ftiewen 5 there-tore Daiid denounceth war againft fuch a difpofition 5 A frow-ard bcmjb&ll depmfrommc. z. It is good for a King, and for his Court, and for his fubje&s,and for the ftanding of the King-dome, that wicked, perverfe, and impious men be out of credit in the Court, and not admitted to places or power of truft; for nothing can be more acceptable to God in the point of Government, nor more amiable to the fubjects then this ; for which caufe2>rj/ipromifethtothe fubjeds beforehand, 1 will not know awicficdperfon; much more will Chrift not know, but difclaira fuch a perlon,

Ver. 5. Who fo frivily Jlandereth hU neighbour, him Will lent off: him that hath an high look^ and * propd heart mlTiMt Ifuffcr*

The fifth duty undertaken, is the curbing of out-breaking wickednefle, efpecially of that which moft hindereth the peace and welfare of the fubje&s, fuch as is ; piivie (lander, and open infolencie. Whence leant, 1, There is no fort of perfonsmore pernicious to a King, or to his (ubje&s, then is a privie (tenderer, having credit in Court: for he is able to murther any fub-jeS, and ruine his State, by feciet and falfe reports of him, while the innocent is ignorant of it, andwanteth all place to defend himfelf; and therefore this evil is to be feverely punifhed by the Magistrate: Who fo privily Jlunderetb his neighbour, him will I cut off. z A Kingdom is not well ruled, except proud and infolent fpirits, whole behaviour fpeakerh prodigality, ftrife, emulation and oppreffion, be taken order witi and born down ;

Him tbxthttb a frigb /po£ and a proud bem^ will ml ^Jfer.

And

And tuch, if they efcapc mens judgements, will not be winked at by Chrift, in whom the truth of types is accom-plifhed •

Ver. 6. Mine eyes fhali be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell nith me: he that walk^ eth in a perfect way, hefhallferve me.

The fixth duty undertaken, is countenancing and encourav ging of the godly in the land. Whence learn y i.TheMagi-ftrate mould have a fpecial care to countenance upright men, and fuch as fear God: Mine cyetjhall be upon the faithful in the LnA. 2. It is good policy, for Kings to hive in their Court and Councel fuch as are faithful; Mine eyes jhall be upon the faithful of the land, thut they may dwell with me, ^ He is to be held in our eftimation for a faithful man, who walketh after the rnle of Gods Commandments ; for fuch, as he called faith-ful before, heexpoundeth here to be (\xch as walk in a perfect -way; whether his he^rt beuprighr or not, doth belong to God to judge. 4. As it h good policy in a State, to have about the King or fup.emc MagHiratef-uchasare Profeffors of true Religion, and of an honeft convention: fo it is good thrift and husbandrie, for every man to choofe fuch for their fervants in the family; He that walketh in a perfect way y he jhM ferve me.

Ver. 7. He that "toirketh deceit, fhall not dwell -within my honfe:he that telleth lies Jhall not tarry in my fight.

The feventh duty undertaken, is the purging out of difcovercd hypocrites, if they mall creep in into credit or truft. Whence learn, 1.. Deceitful and falfe men, and counterfeit hypocrites, may efcapemens observation, and creep into the feliowlhip o£ the godly, and climbe up to the Court, and get place in Kings houfesi for fo doth David prefuppofc here. 2.Whenmcnare •dilcoveredand found to be deceitful workers and liars, then fuch as hive power fhould purge them out; He that worfatb deceit , fhill not dwell within my houfe ', \k that telleth lics l foall not t my in my fight.

B j Ver

$ PSALME Ct

Ver. 8. 1 Will early deflroy all the wicked of the hnd % that I may cut off all Wicked doers from the Ci* tyof theLOR<D.

The eighth duty undertaken, is, to fuppreffeall ungodliueffe in the land, and that for the good of religion, and furtherance pfthe welfare of theChurch. Whence learn, i.The duty of Magiftrates is to fuppreffe all the wicked in their Kingdom, left by indulgence ftiewen to them, they do multiplie, and fo bear down the godly: J will deftroy all the wicked of the land, i. The fnore timoufly the Maeiftrate doth declare himfelf againft all wickednefle, the more doth he what belongeth to his duty : I will mly deftroy all the wic\ed ef the land. $. Albeit it be not pofiible for any Magiftrate, corporally to deftroy all the wicked in theland, partly, becaufe it is impoffible to finde out every one; and partly, becaufe the number of the righteous and found-hearted is few, and their power weak$ and partly, becaufe none can detetminewho they are in particular: yet a godly Magiftrate may civilly deftroy them all, by cau(ing to execute civil punifh-ments, and that EccleGaftick Difcipline be exercifed againft all them, who do not fubmit themfelves to Gods lawes, till all men yield outward obedience ; and unto this duty fhould every Magiftrate fet himfelf : I will early deftroy all the wicked in ibeland. 4.TheMagiftratesdut;yis,Dy his power and bypunifli-ment of evil doers, to endeavour the welfare of Gods Church Within his bounds, as theMinifter of God appointed for that end: for David faith, I will early deftroy all the wicked of the fand 3 that I may cut off all the wicked doers from the City of the L0R2). If the Mageftrate mail punifli open tranfgreffions, the Church will be in better cafe : This was Davids refolution as a type of Chrift, and howfoever in execution much was, wantingin the type, yet Chrift will performe all this exaclly in bis own appointed time, and in his own order, partly in this life, partly at mens death, and partly at the laft day*

PSALME CII.

PSALM. CII.

A prayer of the affliftcd when be is overwhelmed, and pouretb out bis complaint before the Lord.

THis Pfalme agreeth well with the time of the Babylonifh captivity of the Jcwes, about the end whereof, the feven-ty years being now nigh expired, the weight of the mifery of Gods people, and the mockerie of the heathen, and the peoples longing for delivery, did fo afflift the Prophet, that in com-paffion towards the Scattered Church, he poureth out this prayer, and communicateth it at the Lords direction, to all other feeling members of the body to be made ufe of, for the waking up of their affections, and ftrengthening of their hope of delivery. The parts of it are three; Inthcfirft, he craveth audience to his prayer becaufe of his fad condition,wherein he fympathizeth witn the Church in affliction, to ver. 12. In the fecond, he encour3geth himfelf in the hope of being heard in behalf of the Church^ to ver. 2 $. In the third, he layeth forth the occafion of all this grief, which was the fear he had of the cutting ofTof the Church of the Jewes, before the coming of the Melliah; and flievvethhow he ftrengthencd his faith in prayer againftthis temptation.

From the Infctiption, Lcam, 1. It is no ftrange thing for the dear children of God, to be under heavy affliction $ for, here it isprcfuppofed that they may be afflicted, yea, and overwhelmed. 2. The conlideration of the condition wherein the Church is, ferveth toaffwage and mitigate the private calamities of any particular ceifon at anytime: for this prayer giveth direction to the afflicted, whatfoever be his affliction, tolook upon the condition of the Church in the mean time, that it mayeafehfc private grief, if it be well with the Church > and again, that it may either eafe his private grief, or turn it to run in the right channel, if the Church be in a hard condition, as here it is held forth: for the mod kindly grief of a lively member of ;he Church, is that grief wherein he fympathifceth with the calamity of the body, and this wifdom is propounded in thisPfalm; and recommended to Gods people to be made ule of, 3. The affliction of the Saints before us, may andftiouldbe the matter B 4 oi

S PSALME CI I. -

©four comfort and fong to God, and hope o. r help to us in our prayers; for thjsdoth the Infcription and Pfalme teach us. 4, The way for a man afflided and overwhelmed, to have eafe, comfort and deliverance, is, to poure out bis foule before tbc tori 5 for lo much is here imported. 5. Albeit a perlon afflicted, cannot fill up the words of this Pfalme, in his own proper orefent reeling, yet may he make good ufe of this prayer, which teacheth him how towreftle for a'deiiveranec : for the general {hie prefixed to the pfalme teaehetft fo much,

Vcr. I. TJEtremy Prayer, 0 LORD, and let jLX my cry come unto thee.

2. Hide not thy face from me, in the day when / am In trouble, encline thine eare tint* me : in the day when J call, apfeermeffecdily.

In the firft part of the Pfalme, he prayeth for ready acceffe and auaience to his prayer, becaufe of his heavy afflidion, which is fet down more generally, iwv 1, 2. and more particularly branehed fbtth in the nine following verfes. Prom his petition for audience 5 Learn, j. A foul afftided, feeking relief and comfort in God, may both confidently pray for, and certainly exped audience and acceptance of its prayer'j Hear my prayer, O God, z. The earneft prayer of an humble Supplicant, cannot be kept out from God, by whatfoever objeded impediment; for. Let my cry come unto tbcc y is thus much : Let -nothing bold cut my prayer. 3. Albeit it is not any ftrange thing to fee a foul in trouble, and God to feem to be difpleafed with it alio, yet the want of Gods confolation, and fenfeof hisdifpleafure, is more heavy then the trouble, and is that which the godly canleaft endure : Hide not tby face from me, in the day when 1 am in trouble. 4. The Lord fuftereth his babling children to fpeak to him in their owne forme of fpeech, (albeit the termes which theyufe, be not fitted for his ipiritual, invifible, and incom-prehenfiblc Majefty) fuch as are, Hear me, hide not tby face, encline thine ear to me, and fuch like other fpeeches. 5. A foul perplexed and overwhelmed with trouble, cannot long endure the Lords withdrawing ofhisprefenccfrom it: In tbc day wbeQ I wU) wfacr me fpcedily,

u - M Ver,

Ver. 3. For my dayes are confumed like fmoke: anhmy bones are burnt as an hearth.

4, Myheart Ufmitten^and^itheredlikf graffe, fa that I forget to eat my bread.

5. By reafon of the voice of mj groaning : my bones cleave to my s\(m.

6.1 am like a Pelican of the ftildernejfe : 1 am like an Owle of the defer t.

7. 1 watch, and am as 4 Sparrow alone upontht houfe top.

He fetteth down his affliftion more particularly 5 Firft, in the effects andugriesofhjsforrowtobeleeninhiSDody,to?. 8. Then in he c .ules thereof,to v, 1 i.Thirdly,in the confluence and chief erTeft therof repeated,which is the apparent utter undoing of him,!;. 11. As for the firft,we may take the figns of forrow exprefled in a number of firniiitudes, to defcribc both the condition of the Prophets natural bodie, and alfothe condition of the body politick, of rhe tribe of Judab now in captivity Whence learn, 1. The Lords childen are fubje&to iuch lad conditions, as may bring their very natural body to a fort of decay, as thofe firniiitudes here ufed do exprefle. z. The condition of avifibleChutchj mayfeem, and reallybein its own kinde, in fuchaweak, forryand hckconditiou, as the companions here do hold rortht $. As fmoke is extracted by fire out of a moift body, and doth vanifh when it is evaporated:fo may the life and vigour of a Saints body be fpent, and confumed by trouble, and fenfc of Gods withdrawing, or of his wrath j My dayes arc confumed like fino^e. 4. As fire hcateth the hearth, and the hearth once hot with fire, is able to kindle and bum timber or coales, or any combuftible matter call on it; fo is the icnfe of Gods wrath in long lading trouble, able to fpend the ftrength of the ftrongeft man j My bones are burnt as ai hearth. 5 As graffe witherech when it is cut: fo is the courage of a man caft down, whenhefinde:h Gods anger, profiling his Church or himfelf; My heart is fmittcn, and withered as grafje. 6. When God is feen to be angry, the comforts of this life a: e uftelefle, and can yield no pleafure ; 1 forgot to cat my bread. 7. Heavie forrow can hardly be fupprtffed, lights tind gio?ns muft of

ncceflity

necefficy give fome vent unto it: tor, here is the voice of groan* ing. 8. The exercife of the fpirit of Gods deardt children may endure long, even till their flefh faile them: and their jean-uefle may be fuch as here is fpokenof j CMy bones cleave to my s\in. 9. As in fad troubles familiars ufe to draw back from, and leave a man alone; foalfo a fad foul loveth to be alone, rather then to be a fpeftaele of mifery to others: I am like a Pelican in the wildcrneftej am Ifye an Owle in the defert. 10.Trouble of minde is able to bereave a man of nights reft, and then his readieft eafe of minde, is to vent his grief to heavenward. I watch, and am as a Sparrow alone on the boufe top, chirping.

Ver* 8* Mine enemies reproach me all the day* and they that aremadagainfi me y are [worn againft me*

Thecaufesofhis grief are three; Firft, the reproach and dc-fperate cruelty of the enemy againft the Church, ver 8. Secondly, thefenfeof Gods anger appearing in his difpenfation, which drew him not only to frequent fafting and teares, butal-fo to an uncomfortable life. Thirdly, the coaipaiifon of times of the former profperity of the Church with the prefent adverfi-ty,ver. 9,10. Whence learn y i % The men of this world ufe to meet with pity in their calamity, but thi godly are fubjed to reproaches in their troubles, which mockerie and calamity doubleth their mifery; Mine enemies reproach me all the day.

2. The enemies of Gods people are reafonlefle and implacable in their indignation againft the godly : They are mad againft me.

3. Albeit the mifevies of Gods people may be fuch, as the wick* cdenemieof Religion, when he would curfe any perfon, ihall wifh no worfe to them, then to fay, Let him be like fuch a people, and fuch a godly perfon, yet will the wicked not be fa-tiated with this, except he bring more mifchief upon the godly; They that are mad againft me, do curfe by me, or are fworne a-gainft me.

Ver. 9. For 1 have eaten a/hes like bread} and wing!eel my drink with keeping.

10* Becaufe of thine indignation and ihy wrath*

for thou haft lifted me up, and caft me down.

Thefecondcaufeofhiserief, was the fignej of Gods indignation appearing in the Churches mifery, which "made him he defolate many times in the duft, weeping when he mould have taken iome refrefhment to his body. Whence learn, i,The condition of the godly fometime may make them miferable, not only in the eyes of the world, but alfo in their own eyes for a time: I have emit ajhes like bread, 1s?c. 2. Not only may the godly be driven to frequenr fafting and prayer, but alfo to have gray duitie bread for their ordinary diet, and that joyned with fuch grief, as they can take no food with comfort; I have eaten ajhes like bread, and mingled my drink, with weeping. g.Theftiarpeft ingredient in the trouble of the godly, is the fenfe of Gods indignation; I mingled my drink with weeping, becaufc of thy indignation, 4.The troubles which the Lord doth bring upon his own children, fhould lead them to the fenfe of their fin, and of Godsjuft difpleafure againft them for the fames I mingled my drink with weeping y beeaufe of thy indignation and wrath, f. As it is the Lord that maketh changes of condition, and giveth now profperity in his indulgence, and a-non adverfity for the abufe of profperity ; fo mould he be acknowledged in his bounty and juftice good and holy 5 For thou haft lifted me up, and cxfl me down% 6. Companion of paft profperity withprefentadverGtyj maketh the prefent afflicted condition the heavier, and Gods juft indignation the more evident: for thus doth the Pfalmift prove Gods wrath purfuing him and the Church; For thou haft lifted me up, and caft me^down.

Ver. 11. My dayes are Hip afhadow that declineth: and I am -withered like graffe.

Here he repcateth the apparent fad confequence and effect of Ins own and the Churches affliction; he and the Church of the Jewes now in captivity,, were like to be cut off without comfort or hope of deliverance. Wlicncc learn, 1. Not only the viable face of a Church, but alfo the fcattered parts thereof, maybe neartodifappearingj and to utter decaying under long continued trouble; My dayes arc like a Jladow that dcclhiah, and 1 am withered likeg^ffc. 2. The iniferies of the godly, and the extreme danger of the Church; being laid forth before Gd 3

are

are good arguments of hope that God (hall fliortly help J for therefore is it repeated, and laid down here for the laft part of pouring out his foul; My dayes are Ufa a fiadow that declinetb, and 1 am withered like graffc.

Ver. 12. "But thou, 0 LORD, Jhalt en fare for ever .• and thy remembrance unto aU genera* tions.

In the fecond part of the Pfalme he ftriveth to comfort him-felf in the hope of grace to be fhewn to the Church, by feven arguments. The firft is,becaufe God hath purpofed to perpetuate the memorial of himfelf unto all generations, and endureth for ever to fee it done, Whence learn, 1. There is ground of hope to believers, in the faddeft condition of the Church ; for albeit beleevcrs be mortal, yet God in whom their life is hid > is eternal 5 But thou, 0 LOT^V, Jhalt endure for ever. 2. Be-caufe God will have his Name known in all generations, and will have his Word and Ordinances of Religion made ufe ofa-mongmen, forprefervingthe memory of his attributes, works and will, therefore the Church muft continue from 3ge to age s Tbouflialt endure for ever, and thy remembrance unto all generations.

Ver. 13. Thou Jhak arife^ and have mercy upon Zton: for the time to favour her, yea, the fet time is come.

The fecond argnment of his hope, that God will Shortly hnve mercy on his Church is, becaufe the time of the feventy years fee for their captivity, was now almofl: expired. \V)nnce learn,1.It Is good reafoning from Gods unchangeablenefle, to conclude a change of the lad condition of the Church afflicted, from a worfe unto a better : Tbou Jljalt endure for ever, and therefore, thou jhalt arifc, and have mercy upon Sion. ?. As the Lord hath fet times for exercifing his people with affli&ion, fo alio fet times for comforting of them again, which time when it is come, God will have mercy on them whom he hath afflicted ; Thoujhdt arife and have mercy upon Sion 3 for the Jet time to fa* vox r her, fur the fet time is come* Ver.

Ver. 14. Tor thy fervants take f leaf me in her (lories : and favour the dnfi thereof.

The third argument is, becaufe the Lords people had a great aftc&ion to re-edifie the Temple, lying now ruined, IVhenez learn, 1. Ic is no new thing to fee the outward face of Religion, and holy Ordinances defaced 5 for the Temple of $erufalem, is here lying in the duft ofa ruinous heap. a.Thc Ordinances of Religion fhall not be utterly abolifhed, but fo much thereof ihall be prcferved, ;s may ferve for the furtherance of Reformation, and re-edification of his Church, in Gods appointed time; as here the Temple is ruined, but there are ft ones refer-ved for a new building. 3. When the ordinances of God are at theloweft, and moil deformed in the eyes of the world, they are and mould be mo ft lovely, and looked upon with moft efti-mation and affection of Gods people j Thy fervants ta\e pica-fur c inker (tones, and favour the duft thereof. 4» It is a good ground of hope that God will fhortjy repaire the mines of Re-ligion,when he provides builders, and doth put into their hearrs a love to let upon the work of reformation, as the Pialmift reafoning here doth teach us.

Ver. 15. S0 the Heathen fhall feare the Name of the LORD, and all the Kings of the earth thj glory.

The fourth argument of hope is, from the promifed Conver-fion of the Gentiles, to whom the true Religion was to be transmitted inGods own time 3 by the means of rcftoring ofthe Church of the Jewcs unto their wonted priviledge. Whence learn, i.The enlargement of the knowledge and fear of Gcd among them ihat know him not, (hould be the aime and encouragement of zealous Reformers, tout all means which may conduce for Reformation* for fo much we are taught in the Pfalmlfts example, defiring therettauration of the Church ofthe Jewes. tfw.t the Gentiles might be brought in 3 and by hope ofthe Converfion of the Gentiles, giving hope of rcftauratinn unto the fcattered Church of the Jewes; fot. So the Heathen foaUfcare thy t Xamc i is the reafoping of the Pialmift* 2. When the Lord is

pica c\j

pleafed to arife, forreftoiing of his affli&ed people unto comfort, and cf Religion unto its own beautie, he can work fo as Kings fhall feare and tremble, to fee Gods care of his own de-ipifed people; for fo faith he, The Heathen J]?all feare thy HjmejmA all the K™& s of the earth thy glory*

Vcr. id. When the LORDfhallbuildupZion^ht [hall appear in his glory.

The fifth argument of his hope is, from the glory which God fhould hive in reftoring of his Church. Whence learn, i .Whatsoever inftruments the Lord ufeth in the gathering of his Church, he will have himfeiffeen to be the builder thereof > for it is the Lord here , that JJjaU build up Sion. 2. As the glory of the Lord is obfeured when his Church is fcatteredjfo when he fets up his own ordinances again, his glory doth appear, yea,and that more then if his Church had not been fcattered 5 when the LordfiaUbuildupZion, hejhall appear in glory. $. The connexion of Gods glory with the falvationof his Church, is a comfortable ground of hope, that howioever the Church be de-molifhed, yet it fhall be reftored and repaired again: for, When the Lord fall build up Z ion } he pall appear in glory, importeth fo much.

Ver. 17. He Will regard the prayer of the deftitutt, and not defpifc their prayer.

The fixth argument of hope is, from the Lords refpeft to the prayers of his people Whence learn, i.The Lords people do reckon themfelves destitute and defolate, when they have not the face of a Church, and do want the publick Ordinances of Religion, which arc the tokens ,of the Lords prefenee among them : for efpecially in relation to their fcattering from tferu'a-lem and the Temple, doth the Pfalmift here call them deftitute or defolate. z.When the Lords people arc fcattered one from another, they can truft one another, and meet together at the throne of grace, by their prayer prefented before God, as here the faithful fcattered in captivity, do meet in a joynt Petition for the building up of Sion ; the deftitutc have their prayer put up in Gods hearing j He wiUregard the prayer of the.

deftitHte*

dcftitute. 3. Albeit the Lords people be defolate and deftitute of all earthly comfort and help, and be defpifed by the worlds yet their perfons and prayer are in eftimation with God 5 He will regard the prayer of the deftitute, and not dejfife their payer.

Ver. 18. Thujball be written for the generation to

come: and the people which ffjall be created^JbaU praife the LORD.

19. For he hath loohd down from the height of his SanBnarj \ from Heaven did the LORD behold the earth.

20. To he are the groaning of the Prifonersx to loofe thofe that are appointed to death.

21. To declare the Name of the LORD in Zion ; and his praife in Jcrufalem.

22. When the people are gathered together : and the Kingdoms toferve the LOR'D*

The feventh argument of hope to be heard is, from the aflii.-rance, thatastheir calamity was foretold in Scripture; fo their delivery promifed fhould be recorded in Scripture alio, to the praife of God, to the edification and confolation of the Church of God in their folcmn meet : ngs, in whatfoever Kingdoms they lived. Whence learn, 1. The more glory we forefee mall toaog to God by the granting of our prayers, the more confidence may we conceive to have our petition granted; as the Pfalmift s example doth teach us. 2. God rmhfo provided, that the ex-crcile ani experience of the Church in former times 5 fhould ferve to manifeft his glory, and edifie the pofte-rityin after-times j This Jball be written for the generation to come, $. The Lord hath determined by holy Scripture to propagate true Religion, whereby he may be glorified, and his Church edified, from generation to generation ; This Jhali bewriticn for the generation to come. 4. The gathering together again of a fcattered Church; the conveilion of more fin-ners • aid drawing them into the Chuichj and the perpetuation of the Church from 3ge to uge, is a Creation or work of the omnipotent Creator: The people wb'.cb Jball be created, Jball praife .the Lord* j. The Lord ftiould be praifed, as for all his wo. k

fo in fpecial for the delivery of his Church > and praifed not dn* ly by them who do Tec his prefent work, and are partakers in their own peifons of the gift, but alfo by all them that (hall hear of the delivery in after-times • The people which (hall be created^ fall praife the Lord. 6. The Lord doth fo make manifefthis particular and active providence about his people, as all ages fhall acknowledge his care for them; for the pofterity mall fay, He hath looked down from the height of his Sanftuary, (?c. 7. Howfo-ever the Lord fpeak of his dwelling in his Sanctuary, or in his Church here on earth, yetmuft we conceive no thoughts but heavenly of him> as prefent at once both in heaven and earth, to hear and fee the condition and carriage of every one; He looked down from the height of his Sanftuary, from heaven. did the Lord behold the earth >to bcar&c. 8. The Lords heaven* Jymajefty doth not hinder him to humble himfelf to behold even the moil contemptible things on the earth, but rather he will thus raife his praife among men: From heaven did the Lord behold the earth , to hearc the groaning oftheprifoner. 9. Albeit the Lords people may be prifoners, and put to fiience among men, yet their fighes and groanes have a loud fpeech in the eares of the Lord ; Hebeholdctb the earthy to heare ihegroanes of the prijoner. 10. Albeit the Lord fuffer his childien to be impri-foncd and condemned to die, yet he can interpofe himfelf (if he pieafe) for their delivery, before the purpofe of their enemies be executed; He beholdcth the earth, to loofe tbofe that are appointed to death. ii» The end, both of the fufferings and deliverances of the Saints, is the glorifying of God, and as their danger doth grow, fo doth the matter of Gods praife for doing for them grow , up alfo ,Fcr he beholds the earth , to hear thcfighes of theprifoner, and to loofe them that are appointed to death ; To declare the l Iiame of the Lord in $ion> and his praife in Jcrufalcm. 12. The time of glorifying God for his works done for the Church of the Jewes, is in a fpecial manner to be under the Gofpelj in the af-femblies of the Churches of the Gentiles; for, He loofed thofe that were appointed to death* to declare the Name of the Lord in Sion y when the people arc gathered together, andthel{tngdomcsto ferve the Lord: that is, in the time when Chrift mall make the Kingdomesof the earth fubjeft to him.

Vcr. 23. He weakened mj ftrength in the way : he Jhortencd my dajes.

The

The third part of the Pfolme, wherein the Prophet dedareth the cau r eof his forrow, v i$. and his wraftling agai-nft it, v. 24,if, 26, 27. and his vi&oiyovcr the rcntation, v. i% 4 As northern ft, hecompareth the cafe of the Chinch untohii own perfonal condition . Tor oshe in the flower of his age was like to die by reafon of grief for the Church, fo was the Church like to perifli in their captivity, and not to go on unto the hoped for coming of the Median , and calling in of the GentiLes, which was neccflary for the perpetuation of the Church unto the end of the world. Whence learn, i* Thee is fuch a {trait union between the Church of one age and anoher, that the whole Church isas one man $ the Church of thejewesis as one Ifr'ael: and there is fuch a union between the Church and every member thereof, that every member may and (hould taks and eftcem the condition of the Church, as his own perfonal condition, and may fpeakofitfo, eipecially if he be the mouth of the body, a Pnophet or Minifterof the Corporation of the Churchy for fomuch doihthe Prophet* example here teach us* 2. The Church of ifruel from Jbrah m forward, was like a man entered in his journey, and as it were by fo many fteps, from one generation to another, walking on to the coming and receiving of Jefus Chiitt the promifed Meffiahi, who was to come of them, as the forme of fpeech here, borrowed from a wayfaring man, givcth us to underftand. $. When the Lord did fcatter the ten tribes, and after that alfo did lead in captivity the other two unto Babylon : it feemed unto Jfracl a flopping ot them from going on their appointed journey, to rhe coming of Chrift, and a making the tribe of $ud.ibto weak, as there was no appearance of the polTibilit^y of their endurance, cr m king progreffe to their defued end : for fo much is imported in the words of the Prophec, taking on the perfon of Jfracl: He weaf( -eiicd my ftrengtb iuthsway. 4. Yea, there was tear of cutting offof that tribe, and of the 3bolifhing of Jfrael, u\d that the Mefliah coming of them (hould not appear ; and tntswal the ex-crcife of the Church (cartered in the Bibylonifh captivitie; and the fear, and the tcntation, wherewith the Chinch and the Prophet;. bout the end of the captivity, were wraftling, as is ex-prelTed in thefe words, He jhortenedmy dayes) that is, to my appearance (faith Jfrael by the Prophets mouth)) I was cut off from being as a Church or tribe, for any fuch ufe as I expected • 5. The defire after Chriil and communion with him, which the ChiUtfh and every believer hath, is like the longing C which

which amJh hath to be at his journeys end, and the impediments which feem to hinder their communion with him 3 are like the taking away of their life from them 3 He hath fbortenedmy dayes, fai.h Ifracl.

Ver. 24. Ifaid, 0 my God^ take me not away in the middeft of mj dayes : thy years are throughout all generations.

25. Of old haft thou laid the foundation of the earth : and the Heavens are the -works of thy hands.

26. They /hall periJh t but thou fhalt endure , je* t all of them Jha!l wax old Hf^e a garment : as a ve~ fture fhalt ttoa change them, and they Jhall bechan* gel

27. But thou art the fame } and thy yeares ftjatl have no end.

Againft this testation, the Church, orthe Prcphet in the Churches name, doth wraftle in prayer, and ftrengtheneth his faith by fundry arguments, taken from Gods^ to wit, Chrifts eternity, omnipotency, and immutability, Hcb. 1. n, 12. IVhevcc learn, 1. The Church and any member thereof, may poflibly fometime be put in fear of being cut off, before they can attain their defired end, as here, Take me not away in the mdfi of my dayes, dothfimport. 2. Faith doth take Gcd for the party to deal with, whatfoever ftrait it fhall be brought into 5 God is the doer of what is done, faith the beleever, andfohe dealeth with God by prayer for reliefs lfaid,0 Cjod,ta\emenot away. 3. Appearance of pa-ifhing mould not hinder us to pray, but (harpen us rather in our dutic,and when Gods promifesand his difpenfationdofeem to difagree, we may prefle the Covenant, andnotdifpIeafeGod by fo doing 3 Ifaid, O my God, tal^e mc not away, &c 4. The eternity of Chrift is the confo-lationof the believer in his mortality 5 and the eternity of Chrift as God ; is the pledge of his prefervation,and of the performance of Godsfromifes unto him ; Thy yeares are throughout aU generations. 5. The omnipotence of Gdd ; even Chrift,

which

which imy be Teen in the works of Creation, is a rock for the be • iKvcr, who is in Covenant with G;d to icft uponj for wha^ C3n he not do who hath made all things of nothing Of old haft thou lad the foundation of the earth, and the heavens arc the work of thy hand* 6 1 he immatabiliry of God is a notable comfort to his afflicted people, who becaufe he is not changed, therefore ftnll they not beconfumed $ Heaven and earth fhall fc-rijh, but tboujholt endure : (pc. hut thou art the (me. 7. As the heavens and the earth are (ubj.d to vanity for mans C3ufe, and fo in regard of this condition whereinthey are now, they fhall pcrilhr 10 alio they (hill not limply and altogetherperifh, bur be changed as a garment for mans ciufe Rom % 8 n . gt. /ill of them jhall 1 axe old as a garment, as a vefture fhalt thou change them t and tbeyfloall be changed hut thou art thefamc 3 and thyyearcs havi i/oi«i,Heb.i. ii, 12. meant of Chrift.

Ver. 28 The children of thj fervahts fhall continue: and their feed fb*U be eftabltfbed before thee.

Here is his victory over the tersation, and a foUJ afttiianccf of the perpetuity of the Church, from one generation t^another, grounded upon the aforeiaid attributesot Chrift. Whence leant) i. He that is forry for the affli&ion of the Church, fhall haveconiolationfrom God, and a gracious anlwer to his prayer, as the experience of the Prcphet here doth teach us.' 1 The perpetuity of the Church, and eftabHfhing of it may be fol idly concluded from the unchangeableneffe and eternity of God; for thnsGOth the Prophet reafon. 3. The Churco illul never be barren, but from age to age bring tonh children unto God * The cbi drcn of thy fervants Jhall continue>aui their feed. 4. The trueme^nbes of the Church, are not the children of theflefli finply,but the children of the fame faith and obcjicr.ee with the godly teachers and fcrvints of God 5 for foarc they wh > have the pramifes, here defc ibed j The chil Ircv of thy fervants jhall tontimie* 5. What foe vc: change may betel the vilibls Church before tl-e world, yet before God flie is fixed and ftible, as a houfe builded upon a rock , The j'ced of thj fttvants Jhall be ejlablified before thee.

C * PSALMS

ao PSALME C1II.

PSALM GUI.

THis is a Pfaime of praife and thankfgiving to God, for his grace to his people, wherein the believer ftirreth up himfelf, and by his-own example others alfo to praife God, v. i, i. And that tor fevenfceen reafons or arguments of praife * fomc of them taken from mercies (hewen to himfelf, fome from mercies to all believers, and lome taken from his fovereign dominion over all, unto v. 20. and in'the laft three verfes, there is an exhortation to all the creatures,, to joyne in Gods praifes with the Prophet.

Ver. I. TyLeffe the LORD, 0 my foule: and JOa/l that is within me, bleffc his holy Name. 2. Ble[fe the LORT) % 0 mjfoute^ andforget not all his benefits.

In the Pro/hets ftirring up of himfelf to praife God; Lexrn> I * The fenfe of G ods goodnefle to a believer is very bleffednefle * el 1 3 flowing from God the fountain and caufe of blefledneiTe : B!cJfctheL0R2},0 my foul. i-When a believer is fatisfied with Gods goodnefle,. he cannot fatisfie himfelf in the expreflion of his fenfe of it, or of his difcharge of thankfulnefTe for it, but ftirreth up his own dull fpirit to the work of praife: Bleffc the LORD, O my foul. j.Inpraifing God, fpecial care is to be had of che fincerity of our heart and affedions j All that is within me, bleffc bis holy Hume. 4. Whatfoever is faid of God, will be found really to be true of him, and the believer will fubferib* unto the unftaincd glory of his Name, and may fay, AH that is within mc> bleffe bis holy Name. ?. Albeit we do not obtain of our heart a T fii ft what we would ,yet muftweftill infift in the ftirring up of the grace of God in us,for any fervice we are about; c £lc[fc )heLORD, 0 my foul, faith be the fecond time. 6.God hath put fo many obligations upon every believer, as may fur-

nifti

nifli rcafonsof praife and thankfgivingjB/e'jJi the Lord abundant* ly and forget not bis benefits. 7 .As oblivion is always unthankful, fo the remembrance and calling to minde what the Lord hath beftowed upon us, wkh a dueeftimat.'on of the meancft benefit, is a point of upright thankfulndfe: Bleffe the LORD , 0 my foul, and forget not all his benefits, that is, forget not any of his benefits, as the forme of fpcechinthe Original doth import.

Vcrf. 3. who forgivetb all thine iniquities: who healeth all thy dtfeafes.

The firft reafon of thankfgiving is for remiffion of Annes: the fecond reaafon isfor healing fpecially of fpiritual maladies. JVbence learn 3 1. Saving grace beftowed upon us > fliould have the firft room in our thankfgiving unto God, becaufe it is the evidence of Gods fpecial love to us: for this doth the. order of the Prophets thankfgiving teach us.2.The moftiholy ofGods fervants are not juftified by their good works ; 6ut by gracious remifiion of their evil works : Bleffe the LORD >wbo forgivetb thy iniquities. $. The remiffion of lin is a perfect taking away of the guilti-nefle, not of fome only, but of all fins: Who forgivetb all thine iniquities* 4. After remiffion of fin, and juftification of our per-fons, there remaineth much inbred corruption , and many not ©nlybodilvj bar alfo and efpecially finful infirmities, difeafes and maladies of our foules, whereby we become unable to do the good which we would, or to efchew the evil which we would not do: and of thefe difeafes God becometh a Phyftcian to heale them all, by his Spirit of Sanctification beftowed upon all whom he juftificth j IVlio bealetb all thy dif-exfes.

* Verf 4. who re&temeth thy life from S.eflrnUi-on\ Mho crowneth thee With foving kindneffe^ and tender mercies.

The third reafon cf thankfgiving, is for delivering of him gracioufly, from perilling: and the fourth reafon is, for giving

C 3 unto

a* P SAL ME CIII*

tinto him mercifully many good things; 2ty dtftruflion here hemcaneth, not only the danger of being killed by his enemies* but alfo anA efpccially the ftitc of condemnation and pcrifhing in Gods wrath, from which, the man juftified is redeemed by the Mediator. Whence kirn, 1. The benefit of prefervation from eternal death, is given unto the man, to whom all iniquity is forgiven • for here thefe benefits arc joyned the one with ths other- x-The deliverances which are given to believers, as well bodily asfpiritual, temporal as well aseverlafting,do come to us in the way of Redemption, made by our kinde and faithful Kinfmanjefus Chvift > W\n redcemetb thy life from deflru-Uion, 3. A man muft be fenfible of the merit oF fin, and fee himfelf in the ftate of perdition for fin, before he can put a light eftimation upon his delivery, he muft count himfelf a loft man* till the LORDS Redeemer deliver him, as we may perceive in the Prophet, faying, Beb&th redeemed tby life fromdc* ftfuttion. 4. The favour which God beftoweth upon a believer, is not in giving un.ohim one or two. or fome few evidences of his love and mereic, but in a conftant comparing of him on every hand, in everything; fo that he (hall turn him about to what At be will, he is circled roun-i about with love' and mercy, fupplying wants, preventing, or mitigating and feafoning his troubles, reclaiming him from fin, and directing him in Gods way ; JVbocrowncth thee with laving fyndneffe and tender mcr-fics 4 5. The evidences of Gods kindnefle and mercieto a man, isnotonlyameanestoglorifie God, but alfo amcanes to put refpeel; and honour ; yea, and a crown of glory on the head of the believer, inthefighc of all who look upon him; therefore faith he, Who crowncth thee with loving bjzdnijjcandtcvdrr piercies.

Ver. f. Who fathfieth tby month Wub good % things : fo that thj youth is rentWed like ike A fiagles.

The fifth reafon of thankfgiving is, not onty for bleffing the ufeofthe creatures unto him, but alfo and efpccially for feeding him with fpirirual food, and giving comfortable refrefli-(ntntstohis Church, fct forth under the fimilitude of corporal Ceding upon dainties. The /ixth re:Jbn is for comforting his

jfpirit^

fjpirit, and reviving it in irs dead condition, as the Eagle is? revived and renewed after calling her bill. IVbence learn , i .The bleffing of God upon the believer, makeththeufe of Gods benefits, and his ordinary meales and morfels, favourie and fwcet, becaufe he hath all that is given to him,withGods allowance and good-will >' JVbo fatisfietb thy rrouth with good thing*. i.The Lord after fpiritual hunger and thirft, giveth fuch fatisfacTion to the foul of the believer, as banquet-cheat* and dainties do give to a hungry and rhiifty rnan, as the fimilitude here fhewcth ; Who fatisfietb thy mouth with good things. 3. As the E3g!e de-cayeth and growethlean, when her bill or beak growerh fo long and crooked as /he cannot eat for it, and when (he cafleth her bill, and her beak is now fitted better to take her food, then fh£ is revived and ftrengthened, and as it were groweth young a* gain: fo fare: hit with the foul of the believer, which fometimes is fo excrcifed and troubled, as it rcfufeth comfort, and licth in a dead condition $ but when the Lord reneweth theienfeof his love, it is a new life, and the inner man is revived again j Thy youth is renewed as the Eagle. 4. It is an act of thankfgiving unto God, to give account to our'felves, and to reckon over to our own foulcs, what the Lord hath beftowed on us, and done for us, as appearethin the Prophets practice here, fpeaking all this to his own foul, in reckoning over the benefits.

VcT. 6. The LORD executeth right eoufneffe and judgement for all that are opprejfed*

He goeth on in his thanksgiving, and afcendeth from the mercies fhewn to him felf, unto the praifing of Godsrightecufnefle and mercifulneffe toward all believers, as well as toward him-felf, according as every ones need doth require : and here is the feventh reafon of Godspraife, for maintaining the caufe of all his -rpprefTed people. Whence learn, 1. The fight of Gods goodnefle towards our felves, fhould lead us ro ihc(>b r crvct t\ et t^ods goodnefle to all hi* children in common, and unto his righteous, holy and gracious nature, as the example of the P A mift teicheth us. 2. As to be eppreff d was not T> vids ' ■ c a-lone, but is the common condition whe.eunto the godly :n alj ages a-e fun-eft: (0 to have God rhe defender andtfcavc ot thofie that oppreffe them, was no: thcpiivilcd^eo: Davidn-C 4

lone, but common to him and a : l Gods children; For the Lord fxccutetb rigbtcoujneffe and judgement for dl that < arc op* pcffcL

Vcr. 7. He wade known his wajei unto Mofts, his atts unto the children of IfraeL

The eighth rcafon of Gods praife, is,for his revealing of his vvill and works to his Prcphet M.fes, and to the people of Ifrael} Wbenec learn, I. The knowledge of Gods will, of his way of pealing with men, and of his works, are myfteries which men cannot undctftand, till the Lord reveal all to them > It is$e who ma\etb bis wayes \y\ovon. 2. As God hath the choolmg of people to whom, io alfo of the men by whom he will reveal him-I'eit and his wayes 5 He made %nown hk rcxyes unto Mofcs , bis 0 s to tbecbildren of IfraeL 3. As the revealing of Gods wav, whereinhe will walk with us, and of his way wherein he will have us to walk before him> is no fmall mercie to his CJiurch: (g is it no fmall obligation put upon \\\% people, and matter of praife and thanks unto God 5 for this is madejiere the matter of the Churches thanks, and of Gods praife, That be made hjiown h.s wayes to Mofes, and made I fir del to fe 4 e that he wrought as he had fpoken; He made \\novon his affs to"tbe chil-(Ireirof IfraeL

Ver. 8. The LORD is merciful and gractom : floW to anger 9 and plenteous in mercj ♦

The ninth reafon of Gods praife is, for his merciful an4 gracious nature exprcflTe^ in fimdry ritles. Whence le&rn,\ • I hz Lord is companionate toward us in our miferies, and ready tq pardon our fits; The Lord is merciful, z. The Lord is not hindered by our unworthinefle to do us good, when wt come unto him, but is ready to flicvv favour to iuch as acknowledge themfelvcs to be unworthy, and do feek nothing but of his free love j The Lord is gracious. 3. The Lord doth not eafity let forth the evidence of his anger, even when he is provoked ; He jsjlow to anger. 4. Even in wrath hcremembretb mercy > and

doth

dcth not let forth the efte&s ofhis wrath in full meafurc,buttem-percth his chaftifemenrs, foaswe may endure them, and. mix-eth mitigations in the moft bitter cups; He U plentcotct in mercy.

Vet. 9. He mil not altvayes chide : neither rcifc he i^eep his anger for ever.

The tenth reafon of praife is, for the fhort continuance of the effefts ofhis wrath. Whence learn, 1. Albeit the Lord be ready to live as a reconciled God and father with us his children, yet we are given to ftrifc, and do frequently offend and grieveliim, and give reafon to him to rebuke us, as his not chiding of us doth import. 2. When he hath debated his comroverfie by words, and by the rod, and hath made our confeience challenge and chide us, he doth not entertain the comroverfie long;We will not alwayes chide* $. Albeit the tokens of Gods anger endure longer then we would, yet ihall they be removed at length, he will not purfue his quarrel furrher :hen our real humiliation* WOther -will he keep his anger for war*

I

Verf. 10, He hath not dealt with as after our . finnesy nor rewarded us according to our imqtti* ties.

The eleventh reafon of Gods praife is, for the common experience which the Saints have had already of his mercy. Whence learn, 1 .What the Word faith of Gods grace, mercy, long-fur-fering, and other titlesof his goodnefle, the common experience of his children > yea, and of all the members of the vifible Church may bear witnefTe unto it: hehdtbnot dealt with us after our [nines. 2.The felt mercies of the Lord ftiould not extenuate our finnes, but rather make us aggravate our tauhs, and weigh our mifdefervings in the balance of the Sanctuary • for not by the weight of judgements,(which oft-times are laid afide, or are gently infli&ed) but by the Word muft we judge of our iniquities ; for he hath not rewarded u& according to oiir iniquities.

Ver,

Ver. II. For as the heaven is high above the earth: fo great is hu mercy toward them that fear e htm*

The twelfth reafon of Gods praife is, for the unmcafurablc*

nefle nf his mercy toward his fervants, compared to the unmea-

furable height of the heaven above the earth. Whence learn>

l.Ourminde cannot finde out a comparifon too large, forex-

prefling the iuperabundant mercy of the Lord toward his people.

For as the heaven is high Above the earthy fo great is his mercy to -

wtrdtbemtbatfearcbim. 2. Thofe are the children of God,

who howfoever they are not free of fin, yet they are careful to

pleafe God, and loath to offend him ; They are perfons that

fearebim. 3. The confolations of God, and thcrkh:s of his

mercy, are not appointed to fofter fin or fecarity in any man,

but to cherifh the hearts of thofe that ftandin awe to offerd

<Jod, and iludy to pleafe him: Great is bit mercy to them that

fearebim.

Ver, 12. As far as the eaft is from the weft : fo far hath he removed our tranfgrejftons from us.

The thirteenth reafon of Gods praife is, for compleat fu!-nefle of remiflion of fin unto the believer in him. Whence learn, I. Albeit fins hinder ouraccefie to God, yet they do not hinder Gods Approaching unto them, on whom he will have mercy-for fin is not removed, till Chrift come to the firmer, as here is imported. 2. Remiflion of fin is agift, full and complear, given by God unto every believer in Chrift, and the guiltinefle and debt of fin, is fo far and fo fully removed, that it can never bt imputed unto the believer, nor come near to hurt him 5 Jis fir &s the e.ifl is from the weft, fofxr hath he removed our tranfgrejfions from vs. Underftand this of the believer, who doth not turne > he grace of Cjo& into wantonnefle, but makcth nfe of grace, to ftrengthen him in his battel againft the body of fin in himfelf.

V*r.

Ver.i 3. Like M a father fitieth his chillren^ Co the LORD fitieth them that feare him.

The fourteenth reafon of Gods praife is, for his fatherly pity toward all his weak children, who would heartily ferve him better then they do« Whence learn, i.The courfe of renewed pardon of fin, and daily removing of fin from the penitent believer, doth flow from the Lords adopting of believers to be his children, as the fimilitudc taken from a father doth <hew unto us- 2. The love which nature teacheth a father to bearto-ward his obedient chUde, is but a ftiadow of the love of God to believers: Like as a father fitieth his children,fo the Lord fitieth them that fear him. 3. As none of the Lotds children want their own infirmities, fliort comings in duties, and fallings into tranfgrcllionsj fo all of them arelocked on by God, in as tender pity as ever father did fhew to children : Like as a father, fitieth his children , fo the Lord fitieth them th«t fcare him. Un-derftand this of fuch as do eftecm their finful inclination, theit great eft milery.

Ver. 14. For hekuoweth our frame; he remtm~ breth that yve are dufl.

The fifteenth reafon of Gods pi*3ife, is hisdlfcrct'on in moderating h s dealing with us, fo as our weaknefle mav beare; 3nd this reafon ferveth to clear and confirme the former. Whence learn, i. There is no moreftreng:h in man of himfeit, then there is in the master he was made of $ We are but duft. i.Thc Lord knoweth ou weaknefle perfectly, and what wc are able 10 £n lure : He knowctb our frame, y/hu Ruff: we are m dc of, and how fraile our natural conftituuon is. $. h is not for our wor% thineffe in us, that God J.calcth gently with us, but out of his own goodncfie, free-love and pity $ He fitieth them that fear him% for he knoweth onr frame.

Ver. 15. As for man, his dajes arc as graffe :

m

as a flower of the fieldy fo he flourifheth.

16, For the winde paffeth over it, and it is gone, and theplace thereof Jhtil know it no mote.

17. But the mercy of the LORD is from everlaft-ing to ever/afiing upon them that feare him: and ins righteoufneffe unto childrens children:

18. To fuch as keep his covenant , and to thofe that remember his eommandements to do them*

The fifteenth reafonof Godspraife is, for his everlafting mercic, and conftant fidelity in performing whatfoeverhc hath promifed to every (incere beleever. Wheuce learn, 1. AH the glory of man in his naturals, when he is adorned at the beft, with learning, wifdome, beauty, ftrength, riches, honour, and whatfoevcr other ornaments he can have, is but like the glory of graffe and flowers, which are very tender and fubjeft to m3ny hazards, and eafily broken down or blafleJ; and albeit no harme Should come to them from without, yet of themfelves they endure kit a very (hort feafon, and then do fade away: As for miYiy his dayes are as graffe, as a flower of tbe field fo be flourifh-etb, for the windc piffctb over it, and it is go?te, &c. 1. Humane infirmities and molality, ferve indeed to humble a man, but do not hinder the humbled man to come and receive of God compleat mercy, that is, pardon of finnes* fupply ofall wants, and lire e verlafting : Mam dayes are as the flower, tbe winde go . eth over it y and it is gone, and tbe place thereof flail \yiow it no more, but tbe mere ie of the Lord is from ever lifting to everlafting. j. The true believer andheire of the promifes, is he, who in his grcateft confidence in Gods everlafting mercie, doth ftand in awe to offend God > The mercy of the Lord is upon them that fcxrebim, 4. As me cieis decreed and prepared before the beginning of the world, (or the beleever who feareth Godj fo is it let forth in actual application unto him in this life, an d fore-vermore after this life is gone 5 The mercy of the Lord is from e-vcrlaftingto everlafting to them that feare him. ?. Such as out of love to God are loath to offend him; and out of faith in Gods mercy ftud\ to plcafe him, fhall have jufticc to be their friend, to themfelves and to their chi'dren who follow their fctffteps, from one generation to another, the Lords righteoui-

nefie

neflefliall be for them, and not againlt chem ; aJl that is promi-fed ro the SaintSjAiall b<. done t?o them, and for them: Hurigbte-eufjicjfe flail be unto bis children* children. 6. As God hath given the offer o* his grace by Covenant, for reconciliation of enemies ; fo hath he given his Law and Commandments for a rule, to lead the reconciled man unto falvatian, and he only is the heirc of the promife of everlafting mercy and lighteoufnefle ? who fiu-ciah to prove theflncerity of h s faith , by his endeavouring of obedience : For the promife here is made tofuch as keep his Covenant , knd to tkofc that remember bis commandments to <k them.

Vcr. 19. The LORD hath prepared bis throne in the heavens : and his Kirgdome ruleth over all.

The laft reafon of Cods praife, is his uni verfal dominion over all the creatures, whereby a ftrong obligation is put upon Angels andmentoglorifiehim. Wbencelearn, 1. What God doth give unto Believers, he is able to prcferve unto them \ what he pro-mifcth , he is able to performe unto them > whacfoever power in earth or in hellbeagaii ft them , he is able to defend his Church and every Member of it: The Lord hath prepared his throne in heaven, z. Whatfoever praife we owe to God for bcnefits,which we have received from him, ft wer or more, greater or lefler 5 wc muft remember to praife bim alio for his glorious and great Ma-' jefly , .md tranfeendem excellency over all the creatures: He i bath eftablijhed bis throne in heaven, and bis dominion is over all. 3. Whatsoever confufions do appear on earth; whatfoever revc-luti .i;sdof. Uin Church or State; whatfoever hardfhip Gods children do meet with, God guideth the whole bufinc{Ye very orderly and well, and performed! all his own good pleafure : Hk JSjngdome ruleth over M %

Ver. 20. Bleffe the LOR D.. ye his Angels that exceihn ftv^ngth^ that do hi* commandment s> hearken* ing unto the Voice ofh^ word.

21. Blejfe ye the LORD, all ye hu hojles : ye minifiers of I is that do his pleafure,

22, Blejfe the LORD, all his works in all places

jo PSALME CHI.

if his dominion: blejfethe LORD y Omjfcul.

Inthelaft three verles , heinviteth Angels and men and all creatures tojoynewich his foul in prai^ng God : True it is,th.u the Angels need not to be exhorted to bieffe God, and many of the Lords hoftes and wcrkesare not capable of our exhortation $ yet this forme of fpeech (ignincch, that all ofthem in their own kinde , and materially at leaft , do fhew forth the bleffedneffc of Cod j and that if they were all endued with rcafon, able and fit* ted formally, exprefly, and directly to glorifie God, they were all too few for the work, and could not either feverally, or joynt* ly glorifie the Lord, as his deferving is. Whence learnt, 1. The weightofthe offering of praile unto Gcd , is too heavyformen to lift > and as for Angels, it will take up all their ftrength, and their beft abilities to °o about it: Bieffe the Lord, ye bis Angels that cxcell in ftrength. z. It is the commendation of Angels, that they obey all Gods commands readily, and we fhould follow their example, and aime at their perfection in fcr vice , that the will of God may be done on Earth, as it is in Heaven : For they do bis Commandments, hearkening to the voice of his word- $. All the fevei al rankes of creatures, are fo many muttered hofts, ready to execute Gods judgements, as they are directed 5 and are al-wayes in their kinde fetting forth on all hands, the glory and goodnefieof God .• Bieffe the Lord, allyehishofts. 4, The family of Belecvers, the fervants of the Lord,who know his will j and ftudy to do it 5 and in fpecial], his Miniftersin the Churchy fervants in State, Paftors and Teachers of Gods people, have in a fpecial obligation lying on them to bieffe the Lord , who has inrrufted them in his fcrvice, and made them do his will: Blefft H?e Lord,yc Minifiers of his that do bispleafurc. 5. There is none of Gods works in any part of the world; nothing which his hands hath made, how bale and mean ibever it may teem 3 which dorlj not contribute matter unto the fong of Gods praife , and furniffr reafons to glorifie and bieffe the Maker: Ulcfie ye the Lord , all his works, in all places of bis dominion, 6". When the believer lookcth on all the creatures in their own kinde , as contribute^ unto the glorifying of God, he fliall findc his own particular obligation for fpecial mercies bellowed upon himfelf, calling for particular praife and thanks at his hands 5 as Druid doth here* who when he harh fet all the creatures on work to bieffe God,con* cludcih thus; Bieffe sbc Lord, 0 my lout,

PSALME

PSALME CIV.

AS in the former Pfalme , the Prophet ftirred up bimfelf, and all others to glorifie God , fpecially for the works of grace; fo here he ftirreth up himfclf, and others to glorifie God, fpecially for the works of creation, and providence: And in the firft place he fhewcth the fcope of all the Plalme, v. i. In the fecond place he bi ingeth arguments for preffing the duty of prai-fing God, from the firft dayes work of creation, to wit, the lights And from the fecond dayes woik in fpreading forth the Heavens, v. z, ^4. And from the 3d. days woik of bringing forth the Earth, the Sea, the Floods, and Plants, for the ufeofManand Beaft, which were the work of the Gxth day , v- J, 6 t 7, 8 3 o, \o, 1 i r 12, 1 $, 14,1 ? 5 16, 17, 18. And from the works of the fourth day , Sun and Moon, v. 19,2032X312,23,24. And from the works of the' fifth day , Hfhes, greater and fmaller, v. 25, 26 1 In ihe third place , he bringeth arguments of Godspraife, fnmtheprefervation, fpecially of living creatures, v. 17,18,29, Jo. In the fourth place is the conclufion of the Pfalme, with forae further reafons for praifing of GO D, v. 31,32, 33> 34, 35-

Vcr. i.Ty Leffe the LORD, 0 mj (ohI % O LORD D my (jod) thou art very great ; then art cloathed Vvith honour and majefty*

Here is the fcope of the whole Pfalme, wherein he ftirreth up his own fonl, and by his own example, all others that have ears to hear, to glorifie our God for his greatnelTe and Majefty, manifested in his works of Creation and Providence. Wlwicc learn, 1. The Lord is to be praifed by his children ; not only for his benefits beftowed upon them , but alfo for his own glorious Majefty and greatnelTe y not only is he to be praifed for the works of Redemption and G:a:e to his Eleft child:en , but alio for the works of Creation , and what he hath beftowed upon the creatures, as this P^lmc compared with the former doth teach us.

2. Becaufe men have oft-times the words of praife in their mouth, and do care little ro have their afte&ion fuitable to the work in their heart; therefore when we go about to praife God we fliould ftir up our fpirits unto a Religious difpofition, as David doth here,faying : Bleffe the Lord, O my foul. 3. When we go about the work of Gods praife, we mould confer his Majcfty, how great he is, and worthy to be praifed : OLO 7( Z>, thou art very great. 4. Thertis the heart beft fitted for Gods praifes, when the foul that is about the work ofpraife, doth apprehend irs tmercft in God, and looketh upon him as reconciled and in Covenant with it felf: 0 Lord my Go 4, thou art very great s.The praifes of God do not depend npon tbe man that praifcth him, but are fixed in God, and flow forth from him felf fo clearly , that none can be excufed of ingratitude, who do not acknowledge his glory : Thou art cloathed with honour and 3t*jefty. Albeit God be invifible, and unfea. enable > yet his honour an^ Majefty may befeen inhb works , which are as a garment, both to hide him in one refped , and hold him forth in another to be fecn; Thou art cloathed with honour and Majcfty.

VerC2. Who c over efl thy klfetoitb light* as with a garment : who firetchefl out the heavens Uke 4 curtaine.

3. Who lajeth the beames of his chambers in the wa-ters f who maketh the clouds his char et > who walleth Upon the wings of the winde.

4. Who maketh his Angels fpirits : his minifiers a flaming fire.

In the fecond place are fet down the Arguments for praifingof God , taken from the works o( creation > fuch as were wrought the firft and fecond day, whereof only fo much is fpoken, as may lead us unto what is faid more thereof, in the Hiftory written by CMofes. Whence lcarne y 1. The works of creation, befides their natural ufe , do ferve for fpi: itual ufes alfo > to wit, to furnifli unto us the knowledge of God , to edifie us in faith, and ftirre us up to glorifie the Maker, as here doth appear. *« Among ail the fenfible creatures of God , the creation of the light hath the firft place, for rnanifeftation of hiv glory > whether we look

unto

PSALMECV. $z

tinto tht brightnefle and admirable purity of it, which cannot be polluted by any filthineffe whereupon it fhincs , or the isfe k hath in operation upon, and fetting forth of the beauty of the reft o? the creatures , thctefore he beginneth at it here. 3. Our thoughts of God mould be higher , larger , more purified from bodily apprehenlions and all imperfections , then our thoughts of created light are, when we look upon the light illuminated all the world at once j For as the garment of a King (heweth his Majefty , and yet is no part ofhislubftanceoreflence , and irt its nature is much inferiour to his worth ; (o is the light nothing but Gods creature, ferving to fliewforrh his glory , and isinfi-nitly inferiour unto him : IVbo coveretb bimfclf with light, tt agirment. 4. As light filling the workl, is nothing but as the garment of the glorious Creator, manifefting himfelf wirhiri thecompaffeof the world to his creatures; fothc Heavens in their largeft circle, are but the Canopy caft about the feat of a King : for befiretchetb out the heavens lif^e a curtaine. 5. This world is like a ftately houfe, which is divided in upper or lowet roomes* byjoyfts, bcames and plankes, put between the lower roomes and the higher j and the firmament fuftaining the clouds, is the firft divifion r IVboUyttb the beames of his chambers in the waters : Or in the fecond region of the aire, where the waters in the clouds are gathered , and ftored up as it were in their di-ftinft chambers, for the—feverall ufet which God hath for them.

6. As the glory of Kings is to be feen when they go in Coaches 'and their tr3in is following them,or when they ride on horfe-bacfc

With their followers attending them j fo is the glory of the Lord feen, when he maketh the weighty clouds, having in them flouds of watetyo move from place to place, as chareti above our heads, and not fall down at once: He m:\etbebeclouds hischxriot.

7. The fwift and unperceivablc motion of the windes, bein^ railed by God, from all parts in all places of the world , doth ferve as a fhadow to point out the everywhere-p re fence of God j Who walfietb upon the wings oj the windc. 8. The Angels are the Lords creatures, and do ferve him at hispleafare, a; the Winds and flaming fire do , fwiftly going where hecommandeth them , and in the fervour of their love to him, difpatching every bufineffe committed to them : Who mx\exb bis lAngcls [pirns , and bis Mniftcrsafltmc of fire. 9. Qreat and glorious muft our Lordjefusbe, who is th-; Creator and Lord of Angels: And nuti&ih his Angels [pints.

• D Yen

Ver. 5. Who laid the foundations of\he earth that it fb oh Id not be removed for ever.

6. Thou covered/} it with the deep as with a gar* ment: the waters flood above the wountaines.

7 # At thy rebuke they fled : at the voice of thy thunder they haftedaway.

8. They go up by the mount aines : they go downe by the valleyes } unto the place which thou haft founded for them.

9. Thou hafj; fet a bound that they may not pajfe over : that they tutne not again to cover the earth.

From this to the 19th. vcr. he defcribeth the third dayes work of the Creation , prepared for the ufe of man and bead, which were the (ixth dayes work. The preparation of the dwelling houfe of man and beaft, and other living creatures above the earth , is fet down in thefe five Verfes* Whence learn, 1. The feeling of the earth in a like diftance on all hands from the circle of heaven, compafling it round about, and hanging of the enrthinthe midft oftheglobe, and fixing it by his iole command , where it* is now fixed , eeclareth the unfearchable power of God, and glory of his workmanfhip : He laid the foundations of the earth,that itfhould not be moved for ever. 2. The natural place of the Element of water , Is to be above all the earth on aft parts round a-bout: He cover etb the earth with the depth to a garment , and the waters flood above the mountaines. 3. That a dwellinghoafe might be 6:tcd and prepared for man not as yet created, the Lord by his powerful command , made the waters gooftYomuchofthe earth as might Urve for mans ufe > and ftraightway, as if the waters had been driven and chafed, they did run awayhaflily from oft the bounds allotted unto them, as it were terrified at the thundering, imperious and effectual command of God : At thy rehu{e the) fled; at the voice of thy thunder they baftcd away. 4 If a man h id been prefent when God commanded the Seas to retreat from the Earth, he might have feen both a terrible and a joyful fpedhclc of a wonderful haity chafe and flight of the waters running fiercely over the mountaines; and when no more mountains

tairtes were in their way > glyding down through the valleys intd the place wherein they are now ; Thy go up bs the mountainer, they go down by the valley?, unto the place which thou haft foundei for them* S- The waters of the Sea, albeit they tx higher then the Ea th^yet are they bounded in the place wherein they .re 3 that without command given to them from God they may not pafle over the bounds prcfciibed unto them > but do ftiy within the Sea-mark , and there lay down their proud boaftin^ waves : Thouh ft fct a bound thit they may not pajfe over , that they turnc not again to cover the earth : Which they would inbilibl v do by their own natural motion, if this miraculous {landing command were net conftantly in force > as was tobefeen in the flood of Noah, when the boundaries were loofe J for a year 3 till God did execute vengeance on the wicked world, and thereafter they were fent back never to come again for fuch an univeriai judgment.

Vcr, lo. He (endeth the jf rings into the valleys which run among the hills.

I r. 1hey give dr'wkjo every beaft of the field: the ajfes quench their thirft.

12 By them Jhctll the fifties of the heaven have their habitation, which jing among the branches.

13, He watereth the hills from his chambers : the earth is fat is fie d with the fruit of thy works.

14. tie caufeththe graffe to grove for the cattel , and , herbefor the fervice of man 5 that he may bring forth ( foodotttof the earth \

15. tsfndwine that maketh glad the heart ofman , I 4nd oile to mak* h\s face to Jhine, and bread whfch

flrengtheneth mans heart.

16. The trees of the LORD are full */fap •* the Cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted.

17. Where the birds make their nefis : as for the Storkf^ the Fir-trees are her houfe.

18. The high hills are a refuge for the vpildegoates^ and the rocket for the Conies.

D 2 Thus

Thus the ground of mans habitation is (wept 5 now here it 19 replenished, and furniflied with all ncceffaries ferving for mans ule, and to fowles and beafts for mans fake. Whence team, 1. Becaufe rhe ufe of frefh waters was ncceflary for man , and ncceflary it was that man fhoulAhave it nigh hand unto him 5 for the more commodious ufe, the Lord broke up wells of water in feveral places, and made brookes and waters^ and rivers and Hoods, like veines in a mans body, to carry from them water along to all habitable places of the earth , where God had appointed men to dwell: He [endeth the fprings into the valleys, which run among the hills. 2. Not only where men do dwell, but alfo where mens ordinary refort is not, the Lord hath let drinking veflels full of water, for the ufe cftravellingmenand other creatures, appointed to attend man, and fome way to ferve his ufe: He fendttb the [prings into the valleys, which ruune Amongtbe bills. 3. For thefurnifhing ofmanshoufe onearth, God hath pi uvided him with parks for beafts to feed in , and trees for fowles and birds to live in , and ponds for fifties, as we will hear afterwards and thefe beafts and fowles, andfingin* birds, have their drinking veflels fet for them •* They give drin^ to every bcaft of the field, the wilde affes quench their tbirft.4* The Lord hath adorned the habitation of man, withitrces growing be-fide the waterSinotpnly for his own proper ufe, but alfo for the ufe of fowles and finging birds:2ty themfball the fowles of heaven have their habitat on, whichfing amongtbe branches. 5. Where wells and rivers are not, as in hills and high places it isfeen for the moft part; there the Lord fuppiieth theinlack of waters, by rain from the clouds; He water eth the bills from his chambers , that is, from the clouds, wherein as in chambers he hath ftored up great waters. 6. The Lord doth not diflblve the clouds all at once, but by little and little makcth them diftill fmaller or great • er drops only: He watereth the hills from bis chamhers. 7.Therc is no part of the earth, whereupon God beftoweth not fo much ot the fruit of his operation , as may fill it full of his glory : The earth is fatisficd with the fruit of thy wor\s* 8. The grafle and herbs,and the divers forts of them, ferving for the ufe of beafts and men, are worthy of a room in our meditation of Gods provident care t ot man and beaft : He caufab the graffe to grow for the cat -tel, and herbs for the fcrvice ofman 3 that be may bring forth food cut of the cirtb. o. The Lords allowance, upon man is very large* not only for neceiTity,but alfo for delectation: For he h3th provided wine, and 9ih) md bread. 1©. The right ufe of Gods

*rea-

creatures is not to forfeit, and burie the memoiie of God and of theexccllencie of man above beads, in gluttony and drunkennefs* but to give him ftrength and gladnefle in fuch a meafure, as may encourage him cheerfully to Terve his Maker; Ani wine that md^eth glad the heart of man , and oile to ma\ehk face tofbine, and bread which ftrcngthcnctb mans heart. 11. God will have his excellency taken notice or in every thing, which is great, notable, excellent: upon which ground, great trees are called here, The trees of the Lord. i2. The Lord hath furnifhed trees, not only with fo much fap as might make them grow J but alfo with lo much fap, as might ferve man for meat and drink, and medicine, and other ufes: The trees of the Lord are, full of fap. i g. A-mong the trees the Lord will have us take notice of the Cedars, as of a fpeciall plan: of his husbandry on the earth , for their height and greatnette, and durableneffe of the timber , and namely of thofc of Lebanon, defigned for the ufe of his people; of which he faith , The Cedars of Lebanon which be bath planted. 14. It is worthy of our marking, that fot the nefts of birds , he hath provided high trees, where they might breed and lodge,and bring forth their young more fafely and fecurely; Where the birdsmafietbeirnefts: asfortbeStorke^ the Firre-trees are her houfe. if. It is worthy of our obfervation for glorifying of God , that God hath taught weak creatures, naturally to draw themfelves to ftrong defences ; and fundry forts of them, to have their fevcrall forts of refuge: The high hills are a refuge for the wildegoates 3 and the rody for the Conies.

Ver. ip. Me appointed the Mooneforfeafonsi the Sunne kpoVoeth his going doftne.

20. Thou make ft darkneffe and it is night*, wherein all the bcafts of the forreft do creep forth.

21. The youngljonsroare after their prey, and feek their meat from God.

22. The Sunne arifeth % they gather themfelves together : and lay them down in their dennes*

23. Afangoetb forth unto his work*, and to bis la-bour^ untillthe evening.

24. 0 LO RD, how manifold are thy work/ ! in

D 3 Wfz

PSALME CIV.

fyifdome haft thon made them all; the earth is full of thy riches*

Hei e he bringeth arguments of praife from the works of Creation on the fouith day, and fheweth the ufes thereof; JVlhitit learn, i. The mince of man is not able to overtake all Gods works at once> whether in their number or order, or properties, or ufes . as the Prophets pitching upon fomeof them only > doth teach us. 2. The making of two great lights^ the Sunne and the Moon 3 is worthy of our fpecial pbfervation ; for by them the glory o: the reft of the works, is much manifefted : He appointed. tbe Moon for jeafons, tyc. 3. The making of two lights to move about the earth, the one to fupply in a fort the others abfence, is a reafon of Gods praife; He made the Moon and tbe Sun. 4- The dividing of time into nights and dayes, and fundry feafons, that the continuance thereof might not be irkfomc unto man > but the more acceptable by their interchanges and vicifliudes, is a reafon for magnifying Gods wifdome and goodnefle to man : He appointed tbe Moan pr feafons , tbe Sun finorvetb bis going down. 5 % The Lord hath lo wife y mixed the motion of the Sun and Moon , that a fweecer temper is not imaginable: for if their motion had been the lame , and they did move near together , then theufe of the Moon had been the lelfe j if the Moon had been alwayes punctually cppofite to the Sun 3 then flic (houldhave been in a perpetual eciipfes if the courfe of the Sun had not been compieat once a year, and the courfe of the Moon once every monetb , the earth could not have had fo great fervice of both : But God bath appointed tbe CMoon for feafonsf dnd tbe Sun tyiovo* ctb bis going down ; each of t hem cxnclly keeping their courte as God hath ordained. 6. As Gods wifdome and goodneife is to be feen in the Light, fo'alfo in the vicifluude of Darknefle between day and day j For Darknefle intervening between d.iyes, rmketh Ligtr. every day a new gift 5 and Darknefle calleth man from his labour and travel unto reft , that he may be refreihed therewith, and with fleep: Tbou ma\eft dartyieftc 3 and it U night. 7 . It is a remarkable providence 3 that ravenous beafts, for the moft part arc kept in their dennes all day, and not let loofe for iceking their prey , till night, rvkerein all the beafts of the forreft crap forth. 8. None of the ravenous beafts finde their prey, till God bring it unto them : Tor tbe young Lions , for tiunger^ roarc after their prey. 9. The natural cries of the Ji-

ftreflecj

ftrefled creatures^ are in fubftance natures prayer toitsMiker

for relief and help : The young Lions by their rowing, feck, their

meM from God. 10, It is 3 matter of praife to God 3 that the

day-light is made a natural terrour to cruel bea»fts„ or that any

meafurc of being feared by man is left in them : The Sun arifeth,

theygather themjelvcs together, andlay them doronin their dennes.

n. It is the Lords praife that hegiveth daily new ufe of the

light of the Sun to man > that he may follow his work and bufi-

nefle the better till the evening , and fuffereth it to remaine only

fo long a time , as weak bodies may endure moderate travell .•

Man goeth forth to hU wor!(, and labour untiU the evening, i i.The

more men do meditate on Gods works > the more do they finde

a bottomleffe deep; and the number and variety of them , more

and more unfearchable: O Lord how manifold are thy wor^j!

l $. Thus much maybe learned of Gods works, that they are all

of them excellently well, and wifely wrought and ordered; and

that the riches of Gods bounty to man and co the creaturesyJoth

fill all the earth In wifdome baft thou made them all 3 the earth

isfull of'thy riches.

Ver. 25. SO is this great and wide Sea x wherein Are things creeping innumerable\b'oth [mall and great*

26. There go the Jhip si there is thai Leviatha^ whom thorn haft made to play therein.

He cometh now to the works of the fifth day, fpecially the furni filing of the Sea as a fifli-pond for mans ufe > and miking it portable tor (hips to faile in. Whence learn, 1. The ^gveatnefs and widenefieof the Sea > the ebbing and flowing thereof, the morion and faltnefle of it to keep it from rotting,do fpeak of the glory of God , no leife then the ornament and rich furniture of the earth doth. For, as the earth is full of riches, fo is tbis great and-wide Sea 2. The diversity and number of great and fmali fifties in the Sea, fpeak much of Godspower, wifdome a*ni bounty: wherein are things creeping innumerable , both fmall and great fifins. 3. Themaking of the Seas for the ufe of Navigation , chit men who car.not rlee nor twim, might the more commodioufly keep com me ce one with another in all parts of the world 3 is a point of Gods praife 5 There go thefhips 4 Albeit all and eveiy one of Gods works dofet forth Gods power >

D i ye*

yet fome of them do it more eminently then other Tome , for making men fee Gods glory the more in the reft, yea. and in the meaneit of his works; Such for example are the Elephant on jearch , and the Whale, and other huge great monfters in the Sea i That Leviathan whom thou haft nude to play therein.

Vet. 27. Ihefe wait all upon thee t that thoH mayefi give them their meat in due feajon.

28. That thou giveft them, they gather: thou open -eft thine hand: they are filled with good,

29. Thou hide (I thy face, they are troubled, thou ta-fefi any their breath y they die: and returne to their duff.

30. Thou fendeflforth thy fpirit } they are created: and fhoureneweft the face of the earth.

In the third place,he bringeth forth arguments of Godspraife, from the care the Lord hath oftheprefervationof his works , which moil: appeareth in the feeding of all living creatures, and propagation of the kinde ; for when for»c of the kinde are dying from time to time , others are quickened and pat in their room. JVhcnce learn, 1. There is a natural inftincl in all the living creatures in their want, to wait on Gods providence, which men may obferve in themj although the brute creatures know not this, and cannot reflect upon their own inclinations: For the Pfalm-ill fpeaking of all living creatures, no lefle then of the fifties, he faith 5 Thefe all wait on thee , that thou mayeft give them their yneat. z So long as God will have any creature to live, he pro-yidcth timoufly enough few: its food: They wait for thee, that thou mayeft give them their meat in due feafon. 3* Gods providence reacherh to the lead bit of food , which any living creature mceteth wi* h : That thou giveft them,1 hey gather. 4 The Lord is liberal in his difpenfation, and feede h all the creatures abundantly , fo 1 ng as he will have them to live : Thou opencft thy hand j they arc filled with good. 5. The Lord demorftraces himfclfto bethe fountain of life , and that the living creatures flohold thti lifwfhim, aswellby thefickeningand weakening $i the living creatures, as by the feeding and ftrengthening of

them:

them : For when God withdraweth in any meafure the wonted influence of his power from them , then theyfinde a change to the worfe : Tbou bideft thy face from them 3 they are troubled* 6. God hath no lefle fpeciai hand in temovinglife,thenin giving of it-' Tbou takefl awaytheir breath, they die, and return to their diift. 7. Albeit the Lord take away the life of all individual living creatures, yet he preferveth the fpecies and kind of every li-ling creature, by making new ones, and raifing them up in the roome of thofe that are taken away.- Tbou fendcfl forth thy Spirit , they are created. 8. The fame Spirit which created the world in the beginning , woi keth yet powerfully in forming new creatures continually ; Thou fendcfl out thy Sprit s they arc treated. 9. The Lord puts a new face as it were upon the earth, from time to time, partly by Spring-time and Summer every year; partly by young living creaturesj in their fevcral generations, one after another, and all thefe things do contribute to his renewed praife: Tbou reneweft the face of the earth-

Ver, 31. The glory of the LORD (hall endure fa ever: the LORDfballreioyce in hi* works.

32. He looktth on the earth , ank it trembleth : he UHchethihe hills 3 and they fmok* y

In the laft place is the conclusion wherein he addeth yet more reafons for praifing of God, and then maketh fundry ufes of the former Doctrine. He taketh up all that he would fay, in this 5 That God (hall have perpetual glory from the works of his good-nets and power. Whence learn, 1. The end of all the workman-(hip of God, is Gods glory, and he is worthy of glory for his work, and fhall not want his glery from his works for ever The glory of the LordfhaU endure for ever. 2. As the Lord faw all his work in the begiuning to be good 5 fo in the clofing thereof , he fhall fee 3II that he hath done, to be good > and nothing p-operly to be repented or., whatfoever he hath done: The Lord full rcjoyce inhU vcor\{s. 3. As the Lord is bountiful to his creatines: fo alfo is he terrible to the ftrongeft of them, that he may be feared, as well as loved and praifed : He loo^etb on the earthy and it trembleth i he touchcth the hills, and they (moak 4 The fignes of his terrible power which he hath actually manifeflcd , in fha-Icing of the earth, and kindling of the mountaines , do bearwit-r neilehow powerful and terrible the Lord is: He loolicth on the tmb) and it trembleth * he tombetb the bills, and they jmoali-

,Ver

Vcr. 33. 1 will Jing unto the LORD 04 long as 1 live:1 milfing fraife to mj God: While I have my being.

34. My meditation of him/ball be ftoeet: I mil be gU4$n the LORD:

3 j. Let thefihners be confumed out of the earthy and let the wicked be no more: bleffe thou the LORD,Otny foule : Praife ye the LORD.

Here he fettethdown the ufes of this Doctrine, which are five* teaching us fo many Do&rines : For the firft ufe 3 here he bind-cth upon himfelf an obligation, joyfully to praife God for ever, teaching us to do the fame, when we confider the Lords works/ I will fing unto the Lord fo long <w I live , I will fing praife to my Goi while I have any being, 2. For the fecond ufe of thisDo&rine, hepromifeth tohimfeifjoyandgladnefTe, in the difcharge of the work of Gods praife > which teacheth us how profitable it is to our felves to praife God : Nothing more fweet to a Believer., then to be about the glorifying of God , and beholding the matter of his praife, My meditation of bint Jball be fweet y lwiU be glad in the Lord. 3. For the third ufe, hede^ nounceth wrath and deftru&ion unto the contemners of God,who do not regard his glory, but do ftand out aj common enemies of God, and of all his workmanfliip; which teacheth us, that fuch as do not j ?yne with Gods children in glorifying of God , but go onintr.anfgreffingof his commands, and abufing of his creatures, fh:.l! be feparated from the fociety of Gods fervants; unto which judgement every Beleever muft fubferibe, as very righteous •• Lei the [inner s be confumed out of the earth , and let the wicked be nomore. 4. For the fourth ufe, he ftirrcth up himfelf to blcfle the Lord for his own particular, who had found favour to be no more of the numbe/ of Gods enemies, but among the Lords fervants, whereby he teacheth thofe whom God has called from the fhteof fin unto his holy fervice, toftir upthemfelvcstothankf-giving : Bleffe thou the Lord , 0 my foul. 5. For the fifth ufe, he calleth upon all other Bekevcrs , and exhorteth them to praife God, and teacheth us, that every one according to their place, ihould ftirre up another unto the honouring of uod; Praife ye the Lord,

PSALMS

PSALM CV.

THe firft part of this Pralme was fung at the carrying up of the Ark of God to the Cicy oiVavid, i Cbron. 16. 8. The whole containeth an exhortation to the Church of Ifracl , to praife God for his mercies fhewen towards them, with reafons ferving to prcffe the duty. The exhortation is fee down, ver. i, i, ^ 4, $, 6. The reafons are mere particularlyexprefled in the reft of the Pfalme : the firft rank whereof is taken from the Lords covenanting with Abraham^ Ifiac and Jacob, and the care which the Lord had of their perfons, i/er. 7,8^9, 10, 11,12, 13, 14, i$. The fecond rank is taken from the care the Lord had of their pofterity, when he fent them down to Egypt, and all the while theywevc there,wr. 17, 18, ig, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, Th third rank is taken from the manner of their delivery out ot Egypt, when they were oppreffed , and from the plaguing of the E^yp:ians for their fake, ver. 26, 27,18,1037. The fourth rank is taken from the Lords care in leading them through the wilder-neflc, from, ver. $7, to 4$. and the laft rank of reafons is taken from the Lords placing of them in Qinaxn, where they might ferve God according to his law, ver. 44, 45.

Ver. i f /"\ Give thank* unto the LORD, call up* K^Jon his Name : make tycrvn his deeds among the people.

ThePiophets exhortation unto thank ulnetTc, i; branched forth in ten particulars, whereof three are in rfli. vei fe r et dewn inordtr. Whence learn, 1. Asin the matter of glorifying of God, there are fcveral motives, (bihould there b* Teveal confederations of thefe motives, and ads of praifing the Lord con-forme thereto, axid nantely in relation to benefits received, the gifts fhould be acknowledged and confefied to lis praifc , O

give

give tban\s unto the Laid. 2. In relation to benefits to be received, or to evils to be removed, prayer to God is a part of praife :Qdl upon bit ls(ame. 3. It is a part of true thankf ulncfs unto God, to make the world know what God hath done to and for his Church j CMa^c hflwn bis deeds among the people.

Verf. 2. Sing unto him, fyng pftimes unto him : tatl^ ye of all his wondrous works.

The fourth, fifth and fixth branches of the exhottation unto thanksgiving, are fet down in this verfe: Wherein learn % 1. The Lordrequireth as a part of his praife, and of our thanfcfulnefle, that we rejoyce in him, and exprefle our jey by finging 5 Sing unto hint. 2. It is not fufficient to offer the empty veffelof our joy unto God, or our finging voice inmufi-cal tune only, but alfo it is required that we fill our joyful voice with holy matter and good purpofe, whereby God only maybe reafonably praifed : Sing Pfalmes unto hint: $. Albeit we have nothing to fpeak of Gods wonderful works , but what is known to any neighbour as well as to our felves, yet it is apart of Gods praife, and of our thank fulneflc to make his known works the matter of our talk and ordinary conference, as we get ccc|fion; Tal\ye of all bis wondrous wor\s.

Ver. 3. Glorj ye in his Name : let the heart of themrejojee thatfee^the LORD.

The feventh and eighth branch of the exhortation, is fet down inthisverfe. Wherein learn, 1. It is a part of Gods praife, and of ourthankfulneffe to him, to make our boaft of God, and rejoyce becaufe of our intereft in him; and to pro* claim our felves blefled, becauieof our communion with him ; Glory ye in his holy Hxmc. 2. Our gloriation in God mould be holy, joyned with a low eftimation of our felves, and with great reverence toward our mofl holy Gods Glory ye in bu holy Nami. 3. It is a part of Gods praife and of our th3nk-fulnefie, to profefle our need of God, and in the confeience of

our

our emptinefle, and his unfearchable riches, to feek our fupply in him 3 for here fhe feeking of God is recommended unto us* 4. As feeking communion wirh God is a marke of a childe of Ood, fo it is alio a reafon of gladnefs and joy, becaufe it both declares that we are of the number of Converts and true worshippers of God, and alfo that joy isreferved for us * Let the heart of them rcjoyce that foci tbee.

Ver. 4. Seek ye the LORD and his ftrength : [ee\ his face evermore.

The ninth branch of the exhortation is here fet down, directing the people where and how, and for what caufe to feck God, to wit, in his own Ordinances before the Arke, which wasthefigureofChriftto be incarnate, and is called here the Lords ftrengtb, becaufe it was a pledge of Gods powerful pre-fence with them, who come unto God through Chrift : as alfo it is called Gods face, becaufe God is reconciled and favourable to all that feck him in Chrift, who was fignified by the Arke and mercy-feat. Yfbcnee learn, 1. It is rounufual for the Scripture, to give the name of the thing fignified unto the figne appointed of God, to repi efent or fhadow it forth, becaufe of the judicial union of the figne and thing fignified and exhibited unto thebeliever, by the appointment and inftitut ion of God y the fupieme Judge and Law-giver : fo here the Ark of the Co-nanr is called the Lord,and the Lords ftrevgtb&nd the Lords face? becaufe the believer, feeking God according to his Ordinance, did meet by faith with the Lord, and hisft/ength, and face or good will engaged unto the true worshipper. 2. Whenfoevcr the belcever maketh ufe of holy fignes of Gods prcfence, it is not the figne, but God or Chrift fignified by the figne , which the believer doth fix his heart upon; as here, he that looked toward the Avk, which was the figne of God in Chrift, reconciling himfelf to the world, not imputing their trefpafles unto them, is commanded to leek the thing fignified : Scathe Lord, (ceil bis ftrength, \ec\bis fice 3. None do feek the Lord fo earneftly, but they have need of ftirring up to feek him more earneftly, neithe- have any attained to fuch a meafure of communion with God, but they have need to feek for a farther meafure : therefore is ic faid, Seel^ the lord, fcc\b%$ ftrev$xh> jctffc hi* f&e evermore.

Vet. <5. Remember his marvellous Veorks that he hath done : his wonders, and the \ubgements of his mouth.

6. Oye feed of Abraham his fervant^ je children of Jacob his chofen*

The tenth branch of the exhortation directed, together with all the former branches toward the feed of Abraham. Whence learn, 4. It is apart of Gods praifeand of our thankfulnefle, to entertaine the memory of the Lord , and of his works and Words > Remember his marvellous works which he hath done, z. The remembrance of the Lords wonderful works, and gracious words, istobejoyned with feeking of his face, as a fpecial helpofus unto this duty, as the conjunction of the parts of the exhortation do:h teach us. j.The words of God in holyScripture, whether Law or Gofpel, are to be looked upon as decrees, given forth by the great Judge of the world,wherupon certain execution is to follow according as it is foretold; Remember, (faith ht)the judgments ofbh mouth. 4«It is wifdom to joyn the remembrance of the Lords works and words, and to compare the one with the other,that we may the better conceiv of both ;& difcern boh the words anithewoks to be the Lords works and words: Remember, (faith he) his wonders, and the judgements of his mouth « 5. Becaufe we are dull in apprehending of Gods ordinary working , he workethfometimesmarveLsand wonders, that by them we may the better take up his power in his ordinary works * and therefore for this end, fo much the more mould the wonders beremembred; 7(emember his marvellous w^rbj which he hath done, and his wonders. 6. The praife of Cjfod which is called for at the Churches hind, is expected only of believers, the fpiri* tual children of Abraham? and Jacobs faith and obedience: O ye feed of Abraham his fervant, ye children of Jacob bis cboien. 7. As the condderation of Gods grace, beftowing fpiritual pri-viJedges on us, doth oblige us unto praifing and lerving God: fo alio it (ervcth to ftir us up to the duty , for therefore are the faithful called, The feed of Abraham his fervant > the children if Jacob bis chofen*

Vcr.

Verf. 7. He is the LORD our God: his judgements are in all the earth.

8. He hath remembred hit Covenant for ever : the word which he commanded to a thoufand gene rations.

9. which Covenant be made with Abraham^ and his Oath unto Ifaac:

10. And confirmed the fame unto Jacob for* lam and to Jfrael for an everUfiing Covenant.

11 • Saying , Vnto thee VpM J give the land ofCa* naan^ the lot of your inheritance.

In the firft rank of reafons taken from the Lords Covenant wich Abraham, Ifaac and Jacob, and from his care of their per-fonsj Learnt, 1. Our priviledge to be in Covenant with God, is a fpecial reafon of thanks jnd pvaife to him , He is the Lord our God. 2, The Lords fovereigruy without the Church, in all Nations of the world, and in his exerdfingof juftice a-mong all men , ns it is the Lords praife and the Churches profit: fo it is the Churches obligation unto the thankful acknowledging thereof; for the greatnefie of Gods dominion overall the earth, doth commend the fpeciality of his relpee"tto his Church ; His judgements are in nil the earth* 3. As the Covenant ofGod is not for a day,or for temporal favours only,but alfo and efpecially for fpiritual & everlafting mercies.*fo the Lord for-getteth neither leflc nor more of that which he hath promifed, but albeit longtime may intervene before the performance of his promile, yet neverthelefle he remembereth it (till, till it be fulfilled ; He hath remembered hU Covenant for ever. 4 The experience of every age and proof had of Gods faithfulnefs>(houU force men in every age, to bear witneflc unto the Lords ftedfaft-neffe in his Covenant 5 He hath remembred his Covenant for e* vcr, the word which be hath commanded to a thoufand generations* 5. The word which the Lord hath faid he will do, m fpecial his promifes (ball certainly take effect in due time, aod order given by Magiftrates for executing of their decrees, is butafradow of the effectual accomplifhment of Gods promifes, which are called here, Avoid which he commanded to a tboufand generations. 6. Gods Covenant nude with our fathers

thersinourname, is to be laid hold on by us their children, as the example of the Israelites here doth teach us. Which Covenant be mxde with Abraham. 7.For further engaging and confirming the children of Covenanters, there is need to repeat and apply the Covenant unto their children and pofterity $ For he gave his Oath unto Ifaac, and. confirmed, the fame unto $xcob. 8. The Covenant of grace is an evcrkfting Covenam with all who do embrace it;for, the Covenant made with Abraham wm an Ovtb unto ifaac. 4p.It is not free for the children of Covenanters, to embrace or reject as they pleafe, the Covenant of God made with their fathers, becaufe the Lord irnpofed the Covenant upon the pofterity, as a duty whereunto they were obliged from generation to generation ; For he confirmed the fame unto Jacob for a law, and to Ifraclfor an cverlafting Covenant. 10. The Cove -nant of grace made with Abraham, ifaac and Jacob, and with believers after them, did confift in promifes made by God, and embraced of them by faith, as here it is defcribed 3 for the ever-lafting Covenant is expounded to be the Lords, faying : Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan, the lot of thy inheritance^ which promiie being received by faith, became a Covenant with the believer. 1 j.The everlafting Covenant of grace,propound-ed in whatfoeverexpieffions, was one and the fame in fubftance unto the believers: for thefe promifes, to wit, {Intheefbatt alt the families of the earth be blcjfedy Gen. 12. 5. and again, Tell thefiarres, fojhall thy feed be, which promiie Abraham receiving, believed in the Lord, andhe counted it unto bimforrigb-teoufneffc,Gtn. i$.6.And Iwillbea God unto thee, andtotby feed after thee, Gen. 17 7. or, 1 will give unto thee, andtotby feed after thee, the land wherein thou art a firanger , all the land of Canaan, for anevcrlaftiiigpoffcjfwn, and I will be their God 3 Gen* 17. 8. whereunto this place doth relate ) are all taken up here in the free and gracious promife, of giving everlaftirg life to the believers, fhadowed forth in the typical termes of giving the Und of Canaan for the lot of their interitanec.

Vcr. 12. When they were but a few men innum* her : jea y very few y and ft rangers in it.

13. When they went from one Nation to another$ from one R'wgdome to another people,

* 14. He fufered no mm to do them mong •• yea, he reproved Kings for theirfahfs ; 1 j.

-

tj. Saying, Tducb not mine anoint ed^ and do m/ Prophets no h.trme

In the care which God haJof the perfonsof dbrabam, Ifaac and Jacob, who were in Covenant with him; Lcarne, i .They who are in Covenant with God, may be found at fornetimes but: a fmall number > They were but a few men in number t yea, very few a. They who are in Covenant with God for a promifed blefling, may be far from appearance of the poffible pofleflion of what ispromifed, asjfbrzham, Ifaacznd Jacob were a very j'erf m:n,and ftrangcrs in the land of promise. J. As the paucity, nieannefs, low condition, unworthinefleand weakneis of men, doth not hinder God to enter into Covenant with them.but rather by this meanes, he commendcth the freedane and riches of his grace unto them J fo is it requisite in tff^^/vho enter into Covenant with God, that they be ftripped bare of all conceit of both their own and their fathers wort hi nefife, and yec not be hindered thereby, from believing , embracing, and holding faft the Covenant for this did Abraham, Ifaac and Jacob, when thtywere very few, and grangers in the land promifed unto them. 4» They who hive thepromifes both of this life ahd the life to come, may be pilgrims and (bjourners without any dwelling place in the world; The Patriarchs went from one > x JSjtionto another, from one %iugdome to another people. 5.In whitfoever worldly condition believers are, and whatsoever they want in things earthly, yet they want not the love and good will of Cjod, they have alwayes the defence and protection of God , as his fe:erates; Hefufferednomintodotbemwrong. 6. No power or place how high foever, no worldly authority on earth, no law nor pi iviledge of any perfon or Kingdom, is a fuf-ficient plea for troubling Gods fervants, walking in his fer-* ▼ice y He reproved l^ingi for their fah v es. g. The perton of every believer walking in Gods way, is {acred, fanttificd, and fee apart for Gods peculiar; They arc the Lords anointed. 9.They who both by Covenant and f ecial calling to the holy Miniftery have charge to declare the Lo/ds will unto the world, a e own1 ed of God as his Prophets, and are fenced with a rtiid caveat given to all men by God , how great foever, that they harme them not; Touch not mine anointed, and do my Prophets no harme. And upon all thefe aforefaid conhicrations : God is to bs thmked and praifed by his people,

E Vef,

Verf. 1 6. Moreover, be called for a famine upon the land : be brake the whole fiafe of bread.

17. Hefenta man before them : even Jofephy who was fold for afervanu

18. Whofefeet they hurt with fetters: he was laii in iron.

1 p. Vmil the time that his Word came : the Word of the LORD tried him.

20. The King [em and looJed him > even the ruler of his people j and let him go free.

zi*He ma&him Lord of his houfe ; and ruler of all hid fubfiance:

22. To binde his Princes at hispleafure : and teach his Senatours Wifdome.

Inthefecond rank of reafonsof Godspraife, taken from the care the Lord had of the pofterity of Abraham, Ifaac and Jacob, ♦in bringing them into Egypt, and preferving of them there; Learn, j. Every plague, 3nd infpecial famine, isafervancof God j ready at a call to come forth, and execute his judgement: Moreover, he caUedfora famine on the land. 2. No food can be had, except God do furnifh it, and no food when it is given can feed, except God gi^e a powerful blefling with it 5 when that is removed bread feedeth not: He brake the whole ftaffe of bread. 3. The way of the Lords performing of his Covenant, is not fuch as c irnal reafon would preferibe, by giving probable meanes of bringing it to paffe, but the way he chufethis fuch as may tiy the faith of his children, to wit, byfecming todothe contrary \ As here the Patriarchs having the promifeof the land of Canaan, lhall not be fuftered to be fo much as Sojourners in it, tmt muft leave it, and go elfewhere 5 He called for a famine on that land: which might feem to make it in leffe requeft, and by the famine alfo did force them to go where rhey might findc bread. 4. Whenfoever the Lord doth bring his children into ilraits and difficulties, he maketh provifion for their fuftenance in their {traits, and deliverance from the fame. When the Lord

was

PSALME

was to bring his people into Egypt, he provided Co as they mould have a fri nd at Court before they came: Hcfcnta man before tbcm } evcn$ofepb. f. Whatlbever may be the intent of men or devils in troubling of Gods children, God hath a hand irt every thing which doth befal them, how accidentally fceveric may fcem tocome; rfofepbs coming down to Egypt, is called gods meflage ; He fint a man before them, even tfofeph. 6.That which men dw finfully, for Utisfictirn oft heir ownlufts, God doth holily and wifely for his own ends t by tfofcpbs brethren their felling of their brother, to be rid of him i God fendeth Jo-fepb into Egypt ^ to provide for their livelihood ; He [em a man before them, they [old bim for afervxnt. 7. It is not ft^ age to fee the man whom the Lord mindcth to exalt, moft hu nbled before he be exalted; and caft into prifon, before he be lifted up tolibeity, tfofcpb was fold for a fervant, whoj% feet they hurt with fetters, 8. When the Lords fa vtnis are entered in the trial of their faith, they may look to be foundly feavched, before they have ended their trials, and that by iharpafflidion, as 5^0-fepb was tried ; Whofe feet they hurt with fetters, he was laid in iron. 9* The afflictions and trials of Gods children, will no: end when they could wifti, but rhey have a fet meafure and time determined or God; He was hid in irons until the time came, (fc. 10. There is a fee ec word of Gods decree and providence, for ending of the affliction of Gods children, which God wrings eth forth to light in his own time, and until this come, his let-fonts muft lie in bonds, as fofepb lay in iron, till the time thai bit word came; that is, till God male his decree man if eft about the looting of him. 11, Before affli&ion fhall end, the manifested work of Gods providence in affli dim, muft put the afflicted to the trial of all that is in him, ana trial muft go bjford deliverance; Th* word of the Lord tried him. *r. The time appointed in Gods decree, to fend delivery to his afflict children, is made manifeft iu the effectual moving of inftrumenti and raeanes of delivery, and in this cafe if aeed be, K'up mall be fet on work for the delivery of the Lords children ; The J^ingfent and loo fed bim t $ .Such as arc bound ignominioufly for righto* oufneffe, (hall be one way or other loofed honourably \ The Ruler of the people let him go free. 14. When the Lords people are humbled fumciently, God doth raifethemup, and fometime even in a vifible manner before the world, as here fojcpb is by the King of Egypt made Lord ofbu boufe, and Ruler of all /;# fubfttnee. 1 $ . As Gods children arc «uUcd,tor the benefit of B l thofc

$z PSALME CV.

thofe over iyhom they are fet, fo mould they manage and 4 maintain their honour and power, by doing good to their in-feriours, zsjofepb did who was exalted -, To binde ^Pharaohs Frinccs at bis pleasure, and teach bis Senators wifdome.

Ver, 2 J. Ifrael alfo came into Egypt, and^acob fo-journedin the land of Ham.

24. And be increafed kU people greatlj> and made them fironger then their enemies.

25. He turned their heart\to hate his people: to deal ftihiUj with hisfervants.

After tfofepbf the reft of the family is brought down into E-*&ypt) who fojourned there, and were preferved till they grew a . ftrong people, and then began their affli dion as a preparation ^o their out-birnging. Whence lexrn> 1 .Albeit a man hath wrafi-cd with God in prayer^ and gotten his bleffmg, yet may he be ofled in the world by troubles J Jfrael aljo came into Egypt. iiTheheires of thepromife, and the Lords deareft childrerl may be made fojournei s among wicked people, even in their old age> when they need moft to be at refts Jacob fojourneA in the land of Cham. 3.As when the Lords people grow up unto any confiderable number among idolaters, it is no ftiange thing if they finde enmity: fo it is no ftrangc thing in Gods way, to make them grow the more in number and power, the more they be oppofed 5 yea, and to make them under oppreflion and periecution, to become mightier then their adverfaries ; He encreafed his people greatly, and made them fironger then their enemies. 4. The hearts of all men are in Cods hand, toturnc them whither he pleafeth to love or hate, as their afte&ions may fcrve beft his holy purpofes : He turned their heart to hate his people. 5. The trouble and exercife of Gods people, by whatfo-ever inftiuments it be moved, is of the Lord, and he will owne the evil of trouble, which is in the city or countrey whatfoever; He turned their bcart to bate bis people 6. In the moft finful affections, plots and actions of the wicked againft Gods people and fcrvants God hath a holy hand, and is not the caufe of their fin: for sdl the motions of the creatures,which live,and move, and have their being of God, are made ufe of by the Creator, as in-ft; uments, whereby he worketh his own juft and holy work for

his

his own ends * but when men are about that fame work for their finfulends, it becometh finful in them, what is holy in Gods part: as the crucifying of Chrift was moft holy on Gods part, and moftfinful on his enemies part; He turned their bexh to bite bis people: to deal fubtilly with his fervants.

Ver. 26. He fent Mofes hufervantt an&tsfaron whom he kadekofen,

27. TheyfheWed his fignes among them: and wonder sin the land of Ham.

In the third rank of reafons,taken from Gods delivering of his people out of Egypt, and plaguing of the Egyptians 5 Learn, 1. When by the malice of enemies Gods people arebroughtto greateft ftraits, then is deliverance near to be fent from God unto them j They dealt fubtilly mtb bis fervants, be fent Mofes bis fervanu 2. As it is the Lord who bringeth his own people into trouble and ftraits/o it is he who dclivcrnh them again,and provideth inftruments for the doing thereof j Hefent ZMofesbk fervant. 3 . Aswhofoever do ferve Gods Church to any good purpofe,doitnotofthemfelves, but byftirring up, orcommif-fion from God ; fo whofoever are about to do the Church good, mould do it of intention, as doing him fervice ; He fent Mofes bis fervant, and Aaron bis cbofen. 4. As to the end that God may have his own glory in every good work, his partis to be , diftinguifhed from his fervants part: fo when his fcrvants do thefervants duty faithfully, God will have them commended and approved for it among men 5 Mofes therefore is called Gods fervant, and Aaron bis cbofen. The fignes and wonders, are <alled the Lords fignes and wonders, and Mofes and Aarons fervice is called their mewing of his fignes 5 Tbcy fhewed bisfignct among them, and mnders^in tbe land of Ham*

Ver. 28. He fent da* kneffe^ and made it dark* *nd they rebelled not againfi his word.

29. He turned their Waters into blood: and flew their fifi.

E 3 $O.Ths

30. Tht land brought forth frogs in abundance: in the ihxmbers of their Kings.

ii . He fpak?) <™A then came divers forts of flies: and lice in alt tbeir coafts.

32. He gave them haile for raine : and flaming fire in their land.

3;. He [mote their vines alfo and their fig-trees : and brake the trees of their coafis.

34. Htfpak?, and the locufls came : and caterpillars, and that without number.

3 5. And did eat up all the herbs in their land : and devoured the fruit of their ground.

36* He [mote alfo all thefirfi-born in their land : the thief of all their Jlrevgth.

Hereckonethfundry plagues brought upon Egypt, which arc fufflcient for his purpofe, to bring the whole hiftory tominde. Iflience learn, 1 . The Sun cannot expel darknefle in the aire, but as God maketh way for it,for God can turn the day into palpable darknetfe when and where he pleafeth 5 He can make the Sun to (hine in one place, and take the comfortable ufe of it away in another place, as he thinks good 5 he can put his enemies under darknefle when his people have light; Hefent darkneffe, and trade it darfa z* It is a piece of glory unto God, when either his brute creatures, or his rational iervantsdo what he doth command s And they rebelled not againft bis Word. 3. God can make moft ufeful creatures tobecomc noifome; He turned their Waters into blood. 4. God can plague men in the matter of their meat, as well as in their drink, and when the Lord doth plague in the one, it is not ftrange if he ftiall plague in the o-theralfo; He turned their waters into blood, andflew their fifb. f.God can daunt the pride of theftouteft of his enemies, by his meaneil; creatures ; The land brought forth frogs in abun* dance-j pi the chambers of their flings. &• As the Lord fpeaketh, fo mail it be found in due time, he needcth not to make much ado in any bufinelTe, but fpeak the word, and it fhall be done ; 1 He fp&k € > and'there came divers forts of flics. 7. When the proud do ftrive againft God, they gaine nothing but more and

more

moreflumefulabafement; He brought Ike in all their coafts.

8. The clouds are at Gods command, to fent down foft raine, or hard and heavy haileftones $ He gave them hail for raine.

9. Although fire and halftones are moft contrary in their natures , yet they can agree well in the work of Gods fervice, when he employeth them; He gave them hrile far raine> and flaming fire in their land. 10. When lighter judgements do not move men, God will fend more heavy plagues, which {hall leave their impreffionbehinde them; He fmotc their vines alfo, and their fig-trees, and brake the trees of their coafo. 1 x. When Ciod fights againft a people, all the creatures are ready to fight againft them alfo, as they are called forth: He (pa\e, and tie locufis came, and Caterpillars y and that without number. 1 i.What* foever hath efcaped the dint of one plague, God can overtake Jc by another plague: They did eat up all the herbs in the Und, and devoured the fruit oftb: ir ground. 1 j.When God doth fmite the creatures which do fervc for mans ufej he (heweth his long-fuffering and patience towards man, and his loathneiTe tode-ftroy him, as we fee in the order of Gods proceeding with E-gypt. 14. When warning given unto man doth not move him :to repentance, then the Lord layeth his hand on that which is moft precious unto him ',Wc [mote alfo all the firft-borrie in th ir land. 1?. When the Lord pleafeth to put forth his hand, they that are naturally ftiongeft and moft lively, are no leffe near to death, then they who are naturally weaker : He fmote all the firft-bornc, the chief of all their ftrcngtb.

Vcn 37. He brought them forth alfo with flher and g>ld: and there was not one feeble perfon among their tribes,

38. Egypt was glad When they departed : for the feare of them fell upon them.

39. He fpreadacloudfor a covering, and fire to give light in the night.

40. The people asked, and he brought quailes : andfatisfied them with the bread of Heaven.

41. He opened the rocke , and the waters gufbtd out : they ranne in the dry places like a river.

B 4 4*

4*. For heremembredhis holy prcwifc, and A-

brahfiTQ httfervant*

.

In the J^ords bringing of his people out of Egypt, and through the wilderneile; Learn, 1. Albeit there may be many impediments of the delivery of Gods people out of their trouble, and from theirperfecutors, yet the work of delivery is perfected at length 3 for when.Go A had fmitten Egypt in favour of his own people 3 He brought his people forth, z. All riches that men hive are at Gods difpefing, to transfer the right and pofllflion thereof to whom he pleafeth , and the Lords fpeciai and exprcile warrant gave title to thelfraelites, to retain the Egyptians Dor-rowed jewels. He brought tkem forth alfo with filvcr and gold. 3, When,(/od grams a delivery, or any fort of benefit, it is a new gift to inableaman to make ufe of the offered delivery or bellowed benefit, fuch was the benefit beftowed on lfracl, when <grod brought his people out of Egypt, There vets not one feeble perfon among their tribes. 4. The Loud can make bloody perfe-cutors of his people .to ceafe from their perfecution, and to contribute to their delivery; and to be defirous to be rid of them : Egypt was glad when they departed. 5. God can make his persecuted people terrible to their perfecutors, which is noleffe a v/onder .tjien to make the wolfe tremble for feare of the hmbes : JZgypt Was gU4 when they departed, for the feare of them fell up-en them. 6.Except the Lord did take the guiding and protecting of his own people, they mould perim many wayes, after their delivery out of trouble. but whom he dclivereth he taketh a care pfthem, as he did of iffael, for whom he provided the pillar of cloud, to temper unto them the heat of the day : and the pillar of fire, to temper unco th:m the darknefle'and cold of the night, and made both of them to direel their journey : He fpradaclo-id for a cover ing y and fire to give light in the night, 7. Sometime the Lord will give unto his people at their earneit ciefire, that which is not good for them, that fo he may give unto them evidence of his readinefs, much more to give them what is good for them, when they earnejtly ask it; The people ash^ed, dnd he brought quxilcs. 8 .When ordinary meanes of the prefer-vation of Gods people do faile, God will provide for them won* cferfulfy, as he gave his people Manna in the wilderneffe; And fatisped them with the bread of heaven. 9. As the fountain Qf ;he feeding of Gods people, is not in the creatures: but in God

fo>

fofliouldtheey£of his people be carried above the cr eatures, unto heaven, {or prefervation of this life , as well temporal as ipiiitual: for this end it h faid , He faiisfed them with the bread ofheaven, io. God can bring confolatlon unexpected, and that by means moft unlikely to yield 4t ; He opened the rock* and the waters guffyed out. u. There is no fcarcity in God, of wjiat the Lords people doftandin need of, he both can and doth furnifhplenteoufly, and makes the opportunity of having theufcofhis pi ovifion follow his people whither fo-ever he Fcadeth them 5 The waters out of tbcrocliran in the dry places as a river. 12. What the Lord doth to his people, he doth it for his Covenants fake ; as here. He remmbred hh holypromife. 1$. How many yeares foever do intervene Gods promife making, and the performance, the Lord doth not forget his promife, as here we fce.afrer foure hundred and thirty years j He remernbnth his holy proilnifC) and Abraham his fct-vant.

Ver. 43. And he brought forth hu people mthjoj> ZX\c\hvs chofen Vvith gladneffe.

44. And gave them the lands of the heathen; and thej inherited the labour of the people.

45. That they might obferve his ftatntes^ and keep his Lcmes. Praije je the LORD,

Fiom the manner of the Lords bringing \\\s people out of Egypt, and planting them in Canaan', Learn, 1. Whatfoever bondage the Lords people do fall into, the Lord in due time will bring them cut of it, asb'clrongbt forth his people from the bondage of Egypt, z. How muchibever forrow his people may finde in the expectation of delivery, fomuch joy (hall they have in the performance of the Lords promife j He brought forth his people with joy, and bis cbofen with gUdvcffc. $ .The Lord doth not leave dispeople, till he put them to fometcft after their troubles, as he gave reft to his people Jjrael, whom when he carried them through the wilderneile, he gave tliem the poffeffion of Canaan 5 He%avc them the lands of the heathen. 4. ThcLord maketh no end of multiplying obligations on his people, he maintaincs them in their pofleflfron of what lie doth

€o PSALME CVI.

give them 5 they inherited the labour of the people. ?. The end of the Lords liberality, is to engage the hearts of his people more and more to the obedience of his Ordinances, as he did all this to Ifraely That they might obferve bis ftautes. tf.Therc is no rule for ferving of God acceptably, except his own commands j for Ifraels rule was, to obferve his fiatutcs, and\eep bis Ixwes. 7. The right ufe which we mould make of whatfo. ever good was done to the Lords people, is to glorifie God when we hear of it, or read of it, as here we are directed 5 Traife ye the Lord.

PSALME cvi.

THe fummeof thisPfajmeis to teach the godly in the time of calamity, lying upon the Church, or upon themfelves; Firft, to glorifie God by faith in him. Secondly, to reckon up for their encouragement, the frequent forgiveneffe of grievous fins to his people in former times. And thirdly, to pray for the like favour to themfelves i and in hppe to have their prayer granted, to give thanks to God. Tfiere are three parts of the Pfalme anfwerable thereumo: The firft part is the Prophets ftrengthening of his own faith, ver. 1. 2,3,4,?. The fecond part is the confeflion of our fins in general, v. 6. and in fpecial of eight or nine grofs provocations, which the Lord after correction did pardon, and gave comfort to his people, to v. 46. which are fo many arguments of hope, to finde the like mercy to the Church in this time. The firft fin with the forgivenefs of it, is fet down from v. 7, to v. 1$. The fecond fin, v. 1$. 14, if. The third fin, i>. 17, 18. The fourthfin, v. 19, 20, 21,22,23. Thefifthfin, v. 24,1?, 16, 27. Thefixth fin, v- 28, 29,30, 31. The feventh fin, pi$ ! >y« The eighth fin,from v. ^4, to v. 43. The ninth point of confeflion is of a general heap of fins, oft-times repeated, and all pardoned, with pity manifefted to Gods people, v, 43, 44, 4?, 46- The third part of the Pfalme, is a prayer for new experience of like mercy, and a dofe of the Pfalme Vvithpraife and thankfgiving,i/. 47,48.

Vcr.

Vcr. r. TT)Rai/e ye the LORV, O jive thanks JL unto the LORD, for he is good y for hts mercy «ndurcth/*r ever.

The Pfalmift ftirreth up himfelf and others fourevvayes to clorificGod underfad affli&ions, by believing onhim j Firfi, by exhorting all to praife and thank the Lord for his goodnefs-Whence Itarn, 1. The exercife of praifing and thanking th$ Lord, is very fit for a foul, lying under the fenfe of affliction and guiltincfs: for that whieh ferveth for the Lords praife, ferveth al -fofox the comfort and encouragement of humbled finners: therefore, faith he, Praife yc the LORD. i. The meditation of Cjodsgoodnefs*andreadinefs tocommunicate untomen of his bounty, is fit to furnirti matter of his praife, Ttraife ye the LORD for he is good. $. Albeit a man be confciencious of his much a-bufing of Godsgoodneflfe, and fo might finde this to be the matter of his griefs yet mercy anfwereth all objections, ever-lafting mercy lcofeth all doubts, and giveth frefh encouragement to the humbled (inner to draw near, and make yet again ufc of his goodnefle 5 for his mercy endurctbfor ever.

Vcr. 2. Who can utter the mighty a&s of the LORD ? who can /hew forth ad his praife ?

The next rre^nes which he ufeth, toftir up himfelfando-rhers to glorifie God in believing on him, is wondering at the Lords works, and innumerable caufes of praife. Whence learn, J.Itisa difpofitionfit for praifing of God, tobcfenfibleofour uiubility and unfitnefs, for fo great a wo:k, as the Prophet doth (hew in this example, faying. Who can utter tbc mighty acts of the Lord? 1. There is fuch an impreflion of Gods Omnipotcn-cy on all Gods works, and in fpecial on thofe works wherein he hath been pleafed moft clearly to manifeft his power, that no man can comprehend or exprefs it $ Who can utter the mighty aftsoftbclordi $. Albeit the prailesof the Lord furpafe all mens ability to declare them, yet neither muft the greatnefs ol the work, nor the weaknefs and unworthinefs cf theferv; f £od> hinder him to praife asheis able; for even tin. 1

of

ofpraifingof God, toconfeffeandfay, Who can Jhew forth ail thy praife ?

Ver. 3, Blejfed are they that keep judgement : and he that doth right eoufneffe At all times.

The third meanes whereby heftirreth up hirnfelf to glorifie God by believing in him, is a declaring how blefl'ed the belee-ver is. Wbencelearn, 1. The confideration of the bleffing of God upon every true believer, is a notable encouragement to put confidence in God; TMeffed are they that keep judgement, &c. 2. The evidence of a fincere believer, is not only to keep judgement, that is, to receive, refpeft and entertain the Word of God, as a decree wifely given forth by him, but alfo to ftudy to obey it inpradice conftantly upon all occafions: Blcjfd are they thxt \\eep judgement , and he thai dotb rigbteoufuefje at all times.

Ver. 4, Remember me y 0 LORD, with the favour that thou beared unto tUj people: O vifit me with thy [alvation*

5. That I may fee the good of thy chofen, that 1 may rejoyce in the gladnefs of thy Nation : that 1 may glory with thine inheritance.

The fourth meanes of flirring up hirnfelf and others to bc-leeve in God, efpccially in this time of the prefuppofed calamity of the Church, and of the Supplicant, is prayer to God for a new proof of the loving kindneffe, which God beareth to his people in all ages. Whence lexrn, 1. Whatfoever be the outward afflicted eftate of Gods people, yet they arc ftiil beloved, ftill in favour, even when tokens of anger by publick calami* tics are mmifefteda^ainft them: Remember me with the favour which thou bcarcfi unto thy people. 2. There needeth no more felicity unto any man, fave to be one of Gods people: it may content any man to have his lot with the children of God, in whatfoever condition they are put into; for the Pfalmift era* veth no more, but, Remember me, 0 LOTiP, with the favour which thou bearcfl unto thy people. $• Albeit ihe Lords people feem to be forgotten, yet the Lord will make evident that he doth not forget them, nor any one of them ; Remember me, O LORV) with the favour which thou bcareft unto thy people. s 4 Such

PSALMECVI. €i

4. Such as do (hare with Gods people in their grief, (hall be partakers alio of their confolation, deliverance and ialvation, which God hath wifely prepared for them > therefore prayeth the Pfalmift, 0 vifitrnc with thy falvxiion, (pc. ?. As there are times wherein Gud dedareth his difpleafure againft the fins of his people, fo there are times when he removeth the tokens of his diipleafure, and lettcth forth the evidence of his love and refped to thena, in doing them good, making them glad, and caufing them to glory in him , this is it which the Pfalmift look-eth after, Fifitmewitbthy falvation, that 1 may fee the good of thy chofen y that I mayrejoyceintheglacheffeofthyl^ationy that I may glory with thine inheritance. 6. The ncarintereft which God hath in his people, and which thty have in him, is a fo-lid ground of hope of good, and gladnefs, joy and gloriation re-fervedfor them j for they are Gods chofen y Gods TS^ion, appropriate unto him : and his inheritance , to remain in his pof-{ effion from generation to generation ; whereupon the Pfalmift doth affaire himfelfe and the Church of his hope of good, referved for the Church 5 That I may fee'the good of thy ebofen, f&Q.

Vcr. 6. We have finned with our fathers : we have committed iniquity^ We have done wickedly.

In the feconrl place is theconfeflion of fins, for which God juftly might afflict the Supplicants, but in his mercy could forgive them alfo, as he had done to his people in former generations. The force of hisreafoningisthis, many times thou didft (hew mercy to our fathers in their afflictions, notwithftanding their grievous provocations, therefore we muft intreat thec> yea, and hope alfo for thelike mercy in our time ; lV\:ence learn, 1 At is not for nought that the Lord bringeth calamity on his people, he is provoked fo to do by their grievous offences 3 kFe have finned. 2. As judgements are fen: ro convince of n'n, and to draw forth the acknowledgement thereof; fo there is no readier way to remove the fin and judgement alfo, then by confel-fion thereof. We have finned. 3. As God when he puniftieth his people, doth reckon with them, both for their own, and alfo for their fathers faults, whofc footftcps they have followed: fo mufhhc peniten*reckon with God for their own fault*, and

for their fathers fins whcretinto they have acceffion,- We have finned with our fathers , t&c. 4. Confeflion of fins muft not be flighted, but feriouily gone about, and aggravated duly 5 wc have finned, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly. 5. True penitents will neither excufe their fins by the example of their Fathers, nor juftifie themfelves, how holy foever they be, when God is pleading with his Church, but will joyne in confeflion with the multttude, as here the holy Prophet doth 5 Wchwc finned with our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly,

Ver. 7. Our fathers underfiood not thy wonders in Egjpt$ they remtmbred not the multitude of thy mercies*, but provokedhim *tthefea,wcn at thtred-fea.

The fir ft particular fin which he confeffeth is rebellion at the red-fea > Exod. 14. 10, n 3 11. which fin was fo much the greater, as the wonders done in Egypt for them were great and many. Whtnce learn, I. Albeit God manifeft himfelf in extraordinary working in the fight of misbelievers, yet will they remain blinde ignorants, and, brutifh beholders of his operations j Our fathers underfiood not thy wonders in Egypt. 1 . Albeit the Lord mould often convince a misbeliever, both of his juftice and mercy, yet the Lords works do take no lafting im-predion upon his minde; They remembrcd not thy mercies, 3. One/in is a degree to another morehainous, for notobferv* ing/is followed with not remembring, and forgetfulneffe of duty drawcthondi/ci&eiiazceand rebellion: Our fathers underfiood mt thy wonders in Egypt, they rcmembred not the multitude of thy mercies, but provoked him at the fea, even at tbered+fca.

Wet. 8* Nevertheleffe; he favei them for bis Names fake: that he might makfi his mighty power to be known.

9. He rebuked the reb-fe* alfo f and it Was dried $ip: fo he led them thorough the depths, as through the Widernejfe,

10.

10. And he favedthem from the hand of him that hated them : and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy, (

11. And the waters covered their enemies : there Vvas not one of them left.

12. Then beleeved they his words; they fang his praife.

Asheobferved their fin, fo he obferveth Gods mercy to his people; for notwithstanding their provocation, he brought them through the red-fe^, rand deftroyed their enemies* Whence learn, i. The evil deferving of Gods people, doth not alwayes interrupt the courfe of Gods goodnefle toward them; for, never-tbclcffe of theaforefaid peovocation, hepped them, z As the Lords goodnefle doth agggravate mens fins, fo mens fins do am-plifie Gods grace, and make his goodnefle to the unworthy to appear the more, Nevcrthelejfe be favedthem. 3.The Lord hath other things to look unto, when he hath to do with his people, then prefently to fall upon the puniftiing of their wicked-neffe and mifdefervings, even when they are found Delinquents: he ufeth to refpect the glory of his mercy toward his people, and the declaration of his power againft his enemies in favour of his people; Nevcrtbclefl'cbe favedthem for bis Names fake, thatbe might malic bis mighty power to be tyiown. 4 The manner and circumftanccs of CJods working, is as well to be conlidered as the matter, and how eafily he bringcth the greateft works to pa Me 5 He rebuked the rcd-fca alfo, and it roxs dried up. 5. The Lord can make a danger to tune into a delivery, and a peril wherein a man was like to perilh, to be a means of prefervation > So be led them through the depths^ and through the wildemeffe. 6.ln anyone mercy unrolded, we may take up more mercies then one, and each particular part of the mercy when it is difcovercd, will appear no lefle glorious, then the whole mercy looked upon confuiedlyand ingr fle, as here in the delivery at the red-fea, the delivery from Pharaoh, whi h is but a part of the work is pitched upon ; a nd he faved them from the band of him that bated them, and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy. 7. The comparing of Gods dealing with his own people, and with their enemies, amplifieth Gods goodnefs to his people, and their obligation wnco him 3 He redeemed them from the band of the f-

ncm)> :

Tiemy, and the Waters covered their enemies. 8. When the Louis time cometh to enter in judgement wiih the foes of his Church, he will not mifTe one whom he mindeth to overtake, as here, There was not cue of them left. o The Lord fometime worketh fo clearly, for convincing of the misbeliever, that the meft blinde and obftinare inhdel (hall be forced to acknowledge his works 5 When the waters covered their enemies, then believed they his words. 10. It fcrveth much for Gods glory, when he extorteth credit unto his words by wonderful works, but little to the*commendation or the believers,who give credit tn Gods Word upon that ground only > 35 here we fee, for not before, but then did they believe bis words, which importeth their preceding mil-belief, and that their duty was to believe his Word, whatsoever appearance might be to the contrary. 11. A temporary belief extorted by fome extraordinary work, may have joyned with it a temporary joy, and praifing of God for a time, without any root of faving grace in the heart: Then they believed bis words, tbey fang his praife*

Verf. 13. They Jo on for gat his Works : they wait, ed not for his cottnfelx

14. But Infted exceedingly in the Wilderneffe t and tempted God in the defert.

1 <}. And he gave them their requeft : butfent lean* nejfe into their jonl.

The fecond fin confefled here, is their murmuring for want, not of water,but of flefli, x Humb. 11. 4, 5, 6. which luft God did [atisne in his wrath to them. Whence learn, 1 . Temporary faith with the fruits thereof, lafte r h no longer then a new ten-tation doth aflault, and faith grounded not on the word or truth ofit,but only on Gods fenfible works,is ready to vanifh, when the work is a little paft and gone; They foonc forget his wor\s. %Xi Gods works be not remernbred wi;h eftimation of, and affection to God the worker, and with fome ufe making thereof in theo-bedience of faith , God doth efteem them to be forgotten; as here : for this caufe he faith , They foon forgat his wr/^.3.What the Lord doth withhold from his people, or doth unto them, he doth it for good puipoferelolvdly> to train his people untoo-

bediencej

bedienec, aaJtotry them whether they, will fo'Iow their own Will or his counfel as. hut is inlinuated. 4. Misbelievers take 'thcVuJingofthcmfelvcs into their own lund, ajid will not ft y upon Gods provilion for rhem, but muft needs prefe ibe what they love to havt ilor.e, and,do murmure if their carnal deli res be not fatisried i as here the bn marked in ;he Liaelius d«.ih ihew : They waited not [or bis counfel, but luftcd, 5. When men do hoc wijt on Gods direction 3 lulls become their leaders, and furious drivers of them as poo (lives to all unreasonable appetites | They lujlcA exceedingly. 6. When God by ckcumftanies o£ time and place doth c.dl tor moderation of carnal appetite, he. tranfgreffijn is the more hainous and offensive unto God > Thcj in fled ^xcccdi?i^ly in the witdcmejfe, where chey ihouldha»c contented themielv.es with any fort of provifion. 7. They that do not make ufc of* tne life and welfare , which God alloweth and provideth 3 but prelcribe unto God what they would h ve done to them, do tempt >odj They tempted Cjod in the Jejert* tf.Imp jrtunity aWexceffivearfecliontoany unne^eflarvw rid* ly thing, may draw out of Gods hand that which is goccf 5 They /-fled, ajnlGod gave them their requeft, to wit, rfejb in abundance 9.As hwful meanes are attended with Gods b'efling, f© unlawful meanes are followed with Gods curfej He ga-j$ them their requcfl but fent leannejfe into their foul.

Ver, 16. They envied Mofes alfo in theCampe t and Aaron the Saint of the LOR'D. -17. The earth opened, and fallowed ttf'Daiham and covered the company of Abiram.

18. And a fire Was kindled in th?ir company t the • \ flame burnt up the wick*d>

■

^f he third fiq fconfefled is fedkion which brake forth in K ™h* and his complies, 8c was fearfully punifhed, Xum \6. ij ixl'&i? Wbencelcarn> 1. The manner 'of the 1 Lords goveri people, how gentle foever i: be, is'riorw'ithlhndi menathing inlupriortabie, isdot

J during the Lords rricck governing of them by Mo(cs\nl^iro't}.

t.'Rebellion.igainft Godsmannci of it

ked againftGod; y£t prcrrndtth^b be only agunfln.cn.'

F Thej

They envied Mofes in the Camp. $. Milliliters are to be looked unto as men confecrated unto God, and injuries done to them are againft the Lord j The J envied Airon the Saint of the Lord. 4- Whatsoever open wicked courfeis fet on foot, by ring-leaders to any milchief, and is not difclaimed by the body of the people, may jufily be charged upon all, albeit not in the fame degree of guiltincflc, as here, ^orJ)-.nd his Complices fault is charged upon the people, They enviedVdofes in the Cxmfe. 5. Authors of iedition in the State, and cf Schifmein the Church, do highly provoke God to puniib them exemplarily, as appeareth here .* The eanh opened and fw Allowed T)aiban, ad covered the, company of Abiram 6 Such as will not be warned to efchewfin, by judgement poured forth upon others, do provoke God to make themfelves fpe&ades of wrath in the fight of others; A jire was kindled in their contpauy, tie fire burnt up the wic\td.

Ver. 19. They made a calje in Boreb : and nor* fblppe^the molten image.

30. Thus they changed their glorj into tkc Jlmili-tPideof anOxe that eateth grafs*

21. They forget Ood their Saviour : which had done gnat things in Fgjp.

22. Wonderom Vcoyks in the land of Ham : and te r-rible things bjthe red-fea+

25. Therefore he faid that he would deftroy them^ h$& not Mofes his chofen flood before him in the breach^ toturne away bis wrath y left he fhould deflrey them.

The fourth fin confeffed, is the idolatry of the golden calf, which fin is aggi avated,and the danger of their deflruftion for ir, (z\[[Mo r es interceded for them)is briefly fet down here,but mort largely exprefled,Exorf 3 i.and Deut. a. Whence learn , i.They that are ready to change the Government of the Church* which G d hath appointee!, will be ready alfo to change the wqi-fliipofOod, as experience in the Ifraelites doth teach, who are charged with the one fault, v. 16. and with the other here.; They made a Qtlfe in Horcb> and worfiipped the molten *-

mage.

mage, x. Idolaters are fo bewitched with the opinion of the* hwfulncflfeof idolatry, as they dire bothdevife and practife ic in Gods piefence. They made a Calfe in Mount Horcb 3 th* moun ainc whcu the Lord did flitw himftlf terrible. 3.Albeit image-making in the matter of Religion and image-worshipping be ^n old (in, yet this relative worfhip offered un o God before an image, is alwayes reje&ed of God as no worfhip done to him, but only to the imige: for God dorh not expound com* munication of worfhip to an image, or relative worfhip before an image according to the intention of the worfhipper, but according to the nature of the action, which is oifthargid inthe fecond command of the moral law : //r.«c7 in ended to offer the holy day to the Lord, and appointed the worfhip to.vaid the golden image for him, asthe hiftory fheweth Exod. $ 1. 4> ?» To morrow isafeaft of the Lord : yet here tt e Lords Spirit decla-reth thistobea woifhip. not of God, but of rhe image 3 Tbey worjhipped the molten image. 4. M iking of im -ges to reprcfenc God, or any of the prions of the holy Trinity, is but a vilifying of the glory 01 God, and giving it to the image q( a creature; yea, the making of an image torep e.enr ^od, is the changing of the glory of God into a vile image of fome bafe creature, and the placing of the one in the others ftead and room, for fo God judgeth, faying, Tim they changed tbeir glory into thefimilttudeof an Oxc tbateateth grafle, 5. To have God for our God, and to have him alone for our God, and the only objed of our worfhip, without any mixture of humane devices is our gloryj and to do otherwife is the fhame of the wovihipper: They changed their glory into the image of an Oxe. 6. To devife images or pictures to put us in minde of God, is a very forgetting both of Gods nature, and of his authority, dif-charging fuch dyvices, for fo doth the Lord expound it ', They forgot God their Saviour. 7, Whatsoever woks God hath wrought, for making people know him, are all forgotten as well as 5°d is forgotten, whensoever men may make devices of their own for memorials of God : They forgot Goi their Sdviour, which baddone great things in Egyyt> wondrous things in the ixni $f Ham, and terrible things by the red-fca* 8. Idolatry openly committed in aland, isacaufe fufficienttodeftroy the Nation which is guilty of that fin : for y Tbercfore the Lord faidhe would deftrvythem. 9. As they whofeae Go,, in a l>nd, fhould deprecate Gods wrath that it fall not on it, and ftioulj ftind in the £ap to divert the Lords wrath: fo is their imerceffion acceptable

F x igf

<S8 PSALM EC VI.

to God, and a hopeful means to divert wrath, as is to be feen in Mojes who flood up before bimtoturn away bis wrath Jefl be fljould deflroy them i o. When God is glorified in a peoples obedience him, he is a wall about them to fave them from harme$ but wh^n he is provoked by open idolatry or avowed fin,;hen is a gop m.'de in the wall of his protection, .that milchief may enter now in upon them at che. breach : He fail be would deftroy them, bad not CMofes bis ebojen flood before him in the breach.

24. Tea, they defpifed the pleafant land* they be-leeved not hU word:

25. But murmured in their tents :and hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD.

26 Therefore he liftedt*p his hand againft them , to overthrow them in the wilderneffe :

27. To overthrow their feed alfe among the Nations ^ and to fatter them in the lands.

The fifth fin confeffed, is the contempt of Cfods moft preei* cus promifes, figured out in the defpifing of thepromiie ofCd-?>^/uintothem, which as it did fiow from misbelief of Gods Word, foit brought forth murmuring againft his difpenfation, which/did put them in hazard ofdiffipation and deftru&ion> as is fet down more largely, Numb. 13. and 14. Whence team, 1. When the promikJ inheritance of heaven, fwhich was figured by the pleafant land ofpromife^is not counted worthy of all the paines ind difficulties, which can be fuft.iined and met with in the way of going toward it: the promised inheritance is but little efteemedof, asappeareth in the Israelites, who for love of eafe, and fear of the Canaanites were ready to turne back to Egypt; They defpijed thepleafant land. 2. Misbelieving of. Gods Word, isthecaufeof dilefteeming of his precious promifes, ashereisfhewen ; They believed not bis Word. $«Dif-eftimation of Gods precious promifes, maketh men to quarrel with Goas providence. when he is leading men to the poiieffion thereof: for this, mide the Ifraelites malecontent with all that Cjed had done unto ihemiTbcy murmured in their tents.4 When, Gods difpenfationdoth not pi eafe men, they will notiaileto takeacourfeof their own, and rciifregard vvhat^od commanded*

cth them: they murmured, in their tents , and hearkened not to the voice of the Lord. The fait hi die man is fccluded from heaven, and from Gods nil by an Oath 5 They hearkened not unto the voice of the Lord , therefore he lifted up hU hand again ft tbtfrlq that is, not only began to fmitc them 5 but alio as it is, Hcb. 4,3. He [wore they fiould not enter into hUrcft. 6. We ihoiiLi feac, left a promife being left us ofentering into his reft, any of us fliould feem to come lhort of it, Hcb. 4. 1. and we mould labour to enter into that reft , left any man fall after the fame example of unbelief, Hcb. 4. u. becaufc again ft unbelieving Ifraelites y God lifed up his hand to overthrow them in the rcildcrvcffe. 7.The Lords vengeance againft unbelicverSjand defpifers of the Gofpel, and of the precious promifes thereof, readily doth follow the po-fterity of unbelievers, as hce the vengeance reached. To overthrow their feci alfo among the nations, and to fcatter them in the lands. 8. As the Lords threatening do go forth forfure execution, fo they leave room to repentance and interceflion , and do n?3ke both the man that perifheth inexcnfablc , and the man that is (pared to know the wrath which he hath defetved ; For God lifted up his hand to deftroy the unbeliever in the wilderneflfe, before he did deftroy them ; and threatened the pofterity before the execution did come : For this thcApoftle, Heb 4. doth teach us, from the example of Gods dealing with the Ifraelites.

Ver. 28. They joyned tbemfelves alfounto BaaU Peor : and ate the facrificei of the dead.

29, Thus they provoked turn to anger Vfith their in-* mentions : and the plague brake in upon them*

;0. Then flood up Phinehas , and executed judgement : And fo the p ! ague Was flayed.

31. And that W04 counted unto him for righteouf* fjeffe : unto all generations for evermore*

The fixth fin confefled, is the mixing themfelves in fornication, bodily and fpirituall , in open Idolatry with the Moabires 3 -for which they were plagued, till Chinch as interceded fofc them, Nwnb.zf. Whence learn , 1. Unbelievers arc cafih 1 ■ o

change their Religion 3 and to mkede'c&io*. houvGou, as is

Fj r■'■

evident in the Ifraelites $ who by the lwft oi their flefti 3 mixed themfelves with the daughters of Moab; mi then jcyncd with them in their Idohtry : They joyned themfelves alfo to Bad-Vtor. 2. Idolairy is a breach or wed-lock wirh Go I, and an adulterous joyningdf a mans foul to an Idol; They joyne them-felvcs to Ttxal-Feor. $. Communion with Idolaters in worfhip, or in ceremonies and appendicles of Idolatrous worfhip , doth prove the Communicants to be guilty of Idolatry; they ate tb$ ficnfice of the dead. 4- Such as fail from t. ue Religion to Idolatry , do make .in ill bargain 5 they go from rhc living God to dead Idols , and deadly Idolatry ; They ate the ftcrifice of the dead, j. Mens devices in Religion) and Gods ace-ptabk Ordinances, do ftand in oppoiiti^n one to another: for :ens inventions cannot pleafe God > For tbm tbey provoked him with their inventions. 6. Nothing doth draw on more fuddain nd fore judgement , then change of he true wo (hip of God with mens inventions; Tbey provoked him to anger ^ with their inventions : and the plague brake in upon them 7- Such a* have warrant from Godtopunifliopen (\a , ftiould not del ay juftice, for thus much doth the extraordinary fcrvicc of Pbincbdf teach unt the ordinary Magiftrate , whobearerh the fword by office: Then flood rtpVbincM to exceute judgement. 8. As the ]Lord is loath to ftrike when he is provoked > lo he is ready to h ;ld his hand, and ceafe upon any covenicnt occafion: Phineba/s flood up to execute judge >ent, and fo the plague vow flayed 9. The rule and order which God hath appointed unto men to follow, doth not hinder Gad to give extraordinary commiflion to whom hepleafeth, for any extraordinary piece of fervice , as appeareth inthisitiftanceofTWwcfrtf*. 10. What God doth fct men 2 Work to do by inward and immediate infpiration^that he maketh manifeft to the Church by his revealed word of approbation , as the infpircd command given to Tfc/wc/?^, wasjuftified by Gods revealed will to the Church : I fay, by inspiration \ b< caufe im-predion* on mens fpirits, or inftigations unro that which the revealed will of God doth not allow J or fecret impulfes unto unlawful adions, is one thing, and infpiration of Gods extraordinary direction unto any fpecialwork, is another thing : for infpiration from god 3 was the way of fhunning Gods revealved will, which was to be communicated with the Church, by a moral way of command given to the Prophet 5 fuch as was that infpiration , whereby God ufed fometimes to reveal his will to the ChurJi, before the writing of the Scripture was fully dofed :

Thus God revealed his will exprcflely to Abrahm > concerning the offering of his fon Ifaic i Thus God gave order to Mvfcs tor the Ifraelices borrowing of the Jewels of the Egyptians, irpdn his own ri^ht and tide > which he hath unto all the c eatn e. a lif-

Kfe of them at his pleafure ; Thus the whole Scripture * 1 . not privare interpretation, but th^ holy men of God (pake 3$ they were infpired ana moved by the Holy Ghoft ; And thus was Pbi-ncbas inftructcd unto the particular fci vice: but iinprefTions 3 im-pullions, inftigations , which are nor acco; ding to the revealed rule of Gods Word, winch now is fully fet down in Scripture^ as they war.t Gods moral direction to teach th.m. fc alio they wane Gods moral approbation ; I fay, moral direction , bec^u'e providential leading of a man unto any action , is one thing 3 and moral direction is another thing. In the way bf providential leading, a man may be led in Gods jufticc by his bWri lufts, and Sa-tans impu'fe into tentatior; a^ainlt which evi! Chrift directcth us to pray , Lead us not into tempution, bit' 'clivcr iti from that evil, or the evil one. But where morall direction is, xkz man hath his manifefted commiflion ard knoweth formally ihe warrant of his action, and fo doth not (in therein; in piovidentrl leading, a man is oncly a brute inftrument, as the j4fl)/ians and Ncbushddve^ffr was, whom God made ufe of as of a 10a of his indignation, and he knew it not: but in mora! direction, the. man is a rational Urvant^as knowing wh rt he doth to be warrantable fervice ; and fo was -Mofcs in all the hotafe of God a faithful fervant, doing all as God commanded Mofcs ; and fo was Phi-ticbaf here Gois fervant, following rmoraily a clear divine infpi-ration, a clear command and direction, and therefore had he alfo Gods morall approbation: For it ivti counted, to him fir rightcouf'Mcffc. 11. As there is a juftitication of a mans perion, which is only by faith in Jtfus Chrift ; To there is a juitibcation ot a certain deed or action, when it is accepted by God for fervice*, and of this fort is the juftific.uioh of Pbinebw his zealous r ct: for this act was imputed unto him for rigbteoufn<ffe,Q£ for a righ-eous piece of fervice. 12. What God doth juitifwj whether it be a man, or a mans action, no man may condemre it, for it ftandeth abfolved, as in this may be fem ♦ It wat imputed unto him for right coufneffe , unto nil generations for act-mare.

F* Vcr.

Ver. 32, They angred him alfo at the waters of Jlrife: fo that it went ill with Mofes for their fakes :

3 3. Becaufe they provoked his fj>irit : fo that he fyake Hnadvifedl) with his lipr.

The feventh fin confeffed, is murmuring at Meribab for want of water ? whereby meek Mofes was drawen in the mare of a ta(h fpecch", and of a notable inconveniency > 2{umb. z<>. Wbentc larrty 1. 'Oft repeated fin obftinately perfifted in , cannot but provoke God to anger > for as before they had murmured, io alfo now murmuring again, They angered Go&ttthewiurs of jlrife. 2. When the Lords feivants in doing their calling are ftriven againft, there God is alfo fti iven againft; for this caufe the place where the people ftrove with Mofcs> is called the waters jofflrife: to wit, with God, becaufe they ft.rove with Mofes. ^.TheLords fervants are in danger to be drawen into fundry t citations and mares, bv the evil carriage of the people > over whom they hwecharge, nsby occafion of the peoples murmuring, It rcen' ill with Mofes for their fakes. 4. Albeit men are to be pitied who are provoked to fin , yet the provocat on excufeth not xfic [inner; but it aggravate: h the fin of the provoker j as he: c, It %>ent ill with Mofes yet for their f^esi JBecaufe they provoked his fpirit* %. Inrheholieit of men, there are reliques of fin unmor-titied, and fucf) weakneftY, as they may 1 easily iail into fin in an houreoftentaticn; For SMofcs fatty unadvifedly with his lips.

6. It is a dangerous ca.c to come "unto the Loi\ s holy fcrvice , with any palficn or carnal.perturbation, or to miagle Godspub-lick iervice with our pafllons, as in the cafe of Mofes doth appear.

7. The leading of an holy life in the former time of a ans life, cannot juftifie nor excufe an ill action thereafter > nor hinder Gxls wrath whe the mb eaketh torth, 3S is to be feenin SH'ofes cafe j with whom it went ill, lecaufe he fpt^e undvifedr

ly with his lips.

■ s

Vcr. 34« They did not deftroy the nations.conctrnwg Whom the LQ$ C D commanded them:

The

The eight fin, is their difobedience to Gods command after they were placed in the land of Canaan, which is fee down in fun-dey particulars. The firft is, their fparing of the Canaanitcs, whom God commanded them to deft :oy. Whence learn, i. Neglect: and omiflion of that which Gcd doth command to be done, doth bring men under guilrinefle and challenge and wrath , and proveth the fountain of more mifchief afterwards, then men arc a-ware of, as here appeareth ; They did not dcjlroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them- i . Men ftmuld not fpare the lives of thofe whom God commandeth todeftroy, left God mike a quarrel of it, as here he doth againft the Jfraclitcs.

Ver. 3". Titit weremingleh amougthe heatheri) and learned their works*

; 36. sAnd they ferved their idols: fthich were a fnare unto them.

Thefecond particular fo'lowing on the former fparing of the Qanaavits , is forbidden marriages wiih them ., and contagion of their ill manners. IVbcncclcarn, t Sinnes of omiflion, make way for, and draw on hns of commiflion, as here we fee. i.Un-eauall matching with open Idolaters , draweth on contagion of Idolatry j They were mingled with the heathen, and learned their • works* And they ferved their Idols : 3 . Making of images in the matter of Religion , is a work of the heathen $ for h it is here reckoned and called, their wcr^. 4. Image-worfhipping, and Idolatry, is a fin that iseafily learned , the contagion whereof doth Lpread quickly, For the Canaanites Idols were a fnare to the Ilraeiites. f.Servicero Images is condemned of God, as wor-fiip of Images is condemned: yea, God comp;chendeth under Jervice, all and whatfocver refpect done toInuj?cs,as an abominable and damnable fin; For they ferved their idols is he: e the challenge. 6. How plc^fant foe ver, and delectable, and profi able men do plead laiagcs to be; yet GoH efteeme'th lolc-

full inventions , which bring no profit to their fe -van's an i worshippers, fave dolour and grief; for fo much tfofh the word in the Original give us tbundcrftand. 7. Win e pre-

tences men do Fuffer thcmfelves to be led away with, unto the fellow/hip of Idolaters and feiviceol images I are nothing but deluding

ludingdeceits, which fhall bring on the contrary evils undoubtedly : They ftrvei their Idols which wen a fnare to tbm*

Ver. % j. Yea, they facrjficed their font and their daughters unto devils.

38« And fhedinnoceut bloody even the bloodoftheir fons and of their daughters i whom they facrtficedunto the idols of Canaan-, and the land was polluted with blood.

39. Thmvfere they defiled with their oftn works: And went a whoring with their own inventions.

A third particular of their difbbedience in Canaan, is their fa-criricing their children to Idols, whereby the land was fearfully polluted. IVhence leant, 1. When men depart from the rule of Gods Worfhip • thereisnoftiy nor {landing till they fall into the grotfeft Idolatry, whereunro they are temprcd : Tea, (faith lie) they jacrificed tbeir fonncs and daughters, 2. The rage of Idolatry is fuch , as ic will not fpare whatfoever is deareil, even the lives of children and friends to maintain it: They facrificci their fons and daughters. $, The fervice done to Idols, andl-mages of mans devifing, is not done to God 3 as men do pretend who worflitp them ; but to Devils, who are thedcvilVs.fuggeft-ers nnd enticers of men unto all fort of unlawful worfhip ; and who are ferved and obeyed in efFcel: by falfe Religion, Vcut. 32. I7« i-Cbron. l|*«5« \ Cor. 10.20. They facrificcd their fons mi daught. rs unto devils , whom they facrifced unto the Idols of Canaan. 4. Idolaters are blood-thirity > and do not ftand for the innocency of any party or perfon, by whofe blood -flied the Jdol may be honoured , and Satan may bs pleafcd who is a liar and murtherer from the beginning: They Jhcd i.nocent bloody even the blood of their fons and daughters , whom they facrtficed to the Idols of Canaan. 5. When innocent blood is fried, the land is polluted, whatfoever be the caufe which is pretended ; They fljed innocent blood, and the land was polluted with blooi. 6, The higheft point of holinelTe in a falfe Reiigion> is bu: filthineffe and pollutions ind no invention of man can make the followe s therof npre holy by observation thereof, bur doth pollute them ftill,thc

rooi'Q

more they follow them; \or thm w ere they defied with their own •worlds. 7* Following of men inventions in Religion , is Idolatry or fpirituall adultery , becaulc God is iorfaken iMofarrc, 3nd another go 1 and lord inReligion is received in Gods ftcad: for fo mnch laith the Text , They went a whoring with their awn inventions.

Ver. 40. Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindledagainfi hupeople: inlomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance.

41. And he gave them into the hand of the heathen: and they that hated them, ruled over them.

42. Their enemies alfo oppreffed them : and the J Were brought into [ubjeQion under thetr hand*

Here is (hewen what followed on their following of their own inventions, to wit, flavery and fubje&ion unto men> in (jods indignation. Wbenc%learn> \. When men do follow fin and their own waves, wrath followeth them: For therefore was the wrath of God fondled againfi bis own people. 2. When from the Word of the Lord men will not believe how odious fuperftition is to him , he will make them findc it by his plagues: For therefore wm the wrath of the Lord fondled. 3 . No priviledge can make men fo lovely before God, as the love of ; dols and Images in the matter of Religion doth make them to be loathed of him : His wrabww fondled, even againft his own people , injomucb that he abhorred his own inheritance. 4. When Gods people do follow the fuperftition of Idolaters, either by complying to gratifie them, or in way of pleafing themfelves ; it is juftice with Cjod to make Idolaters their rmftcrs , and to m ke his people lole the benefit hoped for by complyance : And he gave them into the hand of the heathen. f. It is righteoufneflc with Go I ro put bis people under the yoke of men that hate them, when they have call off the eafie yoke of God who loveth them : And when men follow w^yes which God nbhorreth , £od juftly doth make them fyflkr what they do moft abhorre; He gave tbim over into the hand of the heathen : And they that hated them, ruled over tbem. 6 The fins of Gods people do make open W3y for their enemies, and do put ftrength, courage,and vi&ory into their hands* and left the

Lord*

Lords people fliould not be moved by that change ofgovernment, he makes their burden under their enemies unfupportable: Their enemiesalfo oppreffed them. 7. When people will not humble themfelves in the way of repentance, it is righteoufnefle with God to bring them low by judgements, as here is feen: The Ifraelitesdo not repent of their (ins, And tbey were brought into fubjeclion under their enemies hand.

Ver. 43. Many times did he deliver them*, but they provoked him "frith their counfel y and were brought low for their iniquity,

44. Nevert heleffe> he regarded their ajflic~lwn y when he heard their cry.

45. AndheremembredforthemhU Covenant : and repented according to the multitude of his mercies.

46. He made them alfo to be pitied of all that tarried them captives*

The ninth and laft point of confeffion, is of a heap of manifold fins often repeated; notwithftanding which God did fhewpity to hispeople for his Covenants caufe. Whence learn, 1. The Lord leave r h no means uneflayed to gain hispeople, fometimes he puts rhem to fore trouble , fometimes he delivereth them, and exercifeth them with the viciflirude of calamiries.and deliveries, if by any means they may be faved .- Many times did be deliver them. z. Such is our wickednefie and -perverfe nature , that flill we give the Lord a bad meeting for his mercies ; and initead ofihankfulnefle, do provoke him by doing and following what we our felves think fitteft, as is to be feen in the I Israelites : Many timet did (jod deliver them , hut tbey provoked him -with their counfcl. $ . Men in the courfe of their fins , have high and felf-picafing conceits of themfelves, and no impeniten-cy is without pride j but by fad judgements God many times make h them lie low in affliction , who do not walk humbly in the way of obedience, as here we fee the Ifraelitcs provoked God by their couvfcl , that is, by their own devices, conceits ami inventions ; ito tbey were made low by their iniquities. 4. Albeit Gods people oft-times provoke him ; and in their profperity

do

do not regard God nor his commands; yet God regards them h, asbotha'ter a whiles profperity, to correct them i and after a whiles adverfity, to comfort them : Neveribelcjfe he regarded their affliction. 5;. God by heavy affliction moveth men to cry unto him , who other wife Would not have called upon him at all, as his dealing with p-oud provoking Ijrael here doth fhew , who in affliction are made to cry J *6. Albeit there be commonly great unfeundnefie in the cry oi- opprefled people 5 yet God will hear that cry and Kip them out of a temporal trouble, as here ; He rtgarded their affliction, when he heard their cry. 7. As when Gods people do abufe his grace .and do forget their Covenant, and are plagued for their fins \ the good of the Covenant 3 and confederacy with God is obfeured, buried, and as it were forgotten: So when the Lord doth change hisdifpenfation , the benefit and good of the C venant is brought to light again J for then God taketh occafionto (hew , that albeit his people do forget the Covenant, yet he forgers it not; For he remembered for them , or, for their behalfe, bu Covenant. 8. The unchangeableneile of Gods merciful nature and love to' hispecpl-e, maketh him change, the courfe of juftice into mercie, and no other change, excepc of thisdifpenfation is meant by ^ods repentance, when it is (aid , zAnd he repented according 10 the multitude ofbU mercies. o.The mercy of the Lord is fo large, as the multitude of'former fins, and abufed by-paft favours cannot hinder the finner once again to come unto the inexhauftible fountaine of grace, and cannot hinder God once more to (hew mercy to a finner J yea, albeic God hathentered in judgment with the finner, and hath begun to pome out delervcd wrath upon him 5 even jufUce thus begun to be executed, cannot hinder God to hold his hand, and (hew mercy once again to the finner: for here experience teacheth , that oft. times when he had entered in judgement with Ifrael, He )€-pentcd according to the multitude of his mercies. 10. (Jod hath the ruling of all mens affections, to make them turne as he pleach .* Cjod mixeth the moft bitter cup of judgement given to his people to drinkc, with the ingredient cfcompajfion ; and what pity his people do finde from any hand , it is the fruit, effect, and evidence of Gods pitie toward them,: He made ibm afe to be pitied ofalltbofe tbtt curried themcapt vcs.

Wn

Verf. 47. Save us f O LORD our God, and gather m from among the heathen , fo jj/w /W;^r «w*<? /£;? £0/7 Nanie ^ and fa triumph in thy fraife.

4^. £/*//*</ be f£* LORD god ef Ifraelfrom e-wr lofting to everlafting , and lee all the feople fay, *Amen % Praifeje the LORD.

The laft part of the Pfalm 3 wherein the Pfalmift draweth two conclufions from what he hath been fpeaking, and tcacheth the Chnrch to do the fame in their fad afflictions: The one is apraycr for the frefli experience of the like mercy unto the Church; and to every member thereof in their time, U47. The other is a praifing or Gad in aflurance of faith , that he would certainly do fo,-y. 45. Whence learn, 1. The right uie of the hiftory of Gods mercies to his Church, is to go to God in humility 3 aud to encourage our felves to feek and expect the like to our felves: Save us alfo, faith the Church here. 2.Seeing God in mewing mercy to his people 3 doth alwayes refpeft the Cove-nantj it is good for the (inner not to quit his intereft therein, but to claime new experience of mercy , according to the tcnour thereof / Tor this relpecl:, the Church praycth here 5 Save us, O LORD our God. 3. The vifible Church may be fo defaced for a dme, that howfoever the vifible members thereof can never ccafe to be but one generation (hall follow another s yet the outward ibcietie sand folemne affemblies of the Church, maybedif-folved and difappear by fcattering of them , as this part of their prayer , Gather us } doth import, 4. It is a heavic affliction /or the godly to Jive in the company of enemies: and of men of afalfe Religion: from this evil they deGre to be delivered, Gather us from among the heathen. 5. The face of a vifible Church , wherein we may have the communion of Saints, and occafions to dwell together with them, and enjoy with them the publick and free ufe of Religion J is a great mercy, and worthy that God (hould be intreared tor it: Gather us from a-tnong the heathen, to give thanks to th) holy Name. 6. The Lords people are allowed to glory in the LORD, and to boaft in his

praifc?

praife? and the end of their fecking the liberty of free affem-bling of themfelves together , lhould be, that they may declare the LORDS praife , and glory in him : G4-tber us to give tbvilis to thy holy Hme y aud to triumph in thy pmfc. 7. When we have prayed according to Gods will , we mould take our prayer for granted , and leave it lying at GODS feet, as the Church doth here. 8. Lee the L O R D do to his Covenanted people what he pleaf-eth, they (hall never want reafon to praife 5 thank and bleflfc him, for the clofing of this Pialme teacheth fo much : Blcjfed be the LORT> GOV of JfraeL 9. The LORD is the everliving Fountaine of fpirituall andever-lafting bleflings to his owne peoples and wharfoever become of temporal things 3 there is reafon of bleffing GOD for fpirituall and everlafting mercies; and to fay, Blcjfed be the LORD GOD of Ifracl, from everlafling to e-verlaftfag. 10. When the Spirit ot the LORD doth rarfe the Song of the praifes of G O D by his Prophets and Minifters; It is the Brides p3rt, and the put of every Member of the Churchy to joyncinthe thankl'giving, and fubferibe with acclamation unto the blefling of GOD : *An& IctM the petple fay> Amen. 11. When the Believer hath in his own perfon given thanks to God , he (hould fttrre up others, according as his ifation calleth him unto it, to praife the LORD alio, as here is done ; Prrifc ye the. LORD.

PSAL.

PSALME CVII.

THis is a Plalme of praife for Gods gracious and wife dirpcn-fations towards men. In the former part whereof, the Pfalmift reckonerh four exercises of Gods people, by Gods juftice bringing them to itraits, and by his mercy delivering them again; The firft exercife isbybanifhment , and by the Lords bringing them back from ic, w v. i o. The fecond is by captivity and imprifonment, and delivery out of it, to v. 17. The third is by bodily ficknefle, and recovery from it, to ver.z$. The fourth is by danger by Sea, and delivery out of it, to vet. jjj,

In the latter part ofthePfalme, he praifeth God for his wife dealing with people and Nations, in changes made among them, in their lands, perfons, goods and eftates, for the good of his.. own, and overthrow of the proud.One change is/of a fertile, into a barren wilder nefl'e, for the Inhabitants fins, y. £j> 34* Another change is of a barren iand into a fertile and plentiful foile, well peopled, to v. $9 A thirci change is , wafting and fpoyling of a well peopled and fertile Countrey, yi 39 A fourth change is, pulling down Princes, and Starefmen, and confounding of them, fo that they know not what to do, or whither to go, v. 4°# The fifth change is, the lifting up of the poor and defolate, and enlarging of them in all tefpe&s, v. 41. The beftwitnefles of which changes, are the godly and wife obfervers of Gods providence, who for a reward of their cbfervation fhall have comfortable ufc and benefit of all Gods difpenfations, v. 4*,4$«

Ver. I. f~\ Give thanks unto the LORD , for V^/ be is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

2. Let the redeemed of the LORD fay (o : whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy.

3. And gathered them out of the landsr, from the

Eaft,

PSAlME CVlf. St

£aft 9 and from the Weft : from the North ^ and from the South.

He exhorteth all to give thanks unto the Lord , and fpccially the Lords redeemed ones, brought back from exile out of all countreys where they wandered. Whence learti 3 i. Unto no duty are we more dull and untoward, then to the pralfe of God,and thankfgiving unto him $ neither is there any duty whereunto there is more need that we iliould be ilirred up , as this e^rneft exhortation doth import: 0 give t\nn\s unto the Lord. i. Whether men do acknowledge the grace and bounty of the Lord or not, he is worthy to be thanked and praifed \ partly, becaufe of his liberal and ready communicating his goodnes freely, not only to not deferving, butalfo to illdeferving perfons, and that"out of meer mercy s and partly, becaufe he followeth the man who hath found mercy, with mercy more and more ; and partly , becaufe he refufeth to no man met cy who fcekethit, or (hall feek it of him, at what time foever, tothe worlds end : For fo much faith thereafon of the exhortation , For beugoid^ for bis mercy enduretbfor ever. . $. Every man hath matter and leafon, and obligation lying on him, ropraifeGodj bu- fpecially fuch as have more pa.ticulai^ oitner and greatc experience of mercies then others have had.* Let the redeemed of the Lord {ay fo. 4, Redemption made by Chrift o\ his own Elect, is thefoun-taineof every particular benefit beftowed upon them: for the E-lccl: are called the reedeemed of the Lord here, before the particular delivery from baniftiment b Specified; and that delivery is called a redeeming of them, Whom he hath redeemed f'om the bxni of the enemic, as flowing from the great Redemption. 5 So oft as men have received deliverances, they owe unto God fo many lives, and God hath fo many titles of right unto them, as they have received prefervations: And thofe will the Lord have to be witnefles of his mercy before the reft of the world : Let the redeemed of the Lord fay fo y whom he hath redeemed from the baud cf'theenemic. 6. As the Lords children m3y be [Scattered in all the corners of the world , and excluded from the external communion of the Saints J lonone of them doreturne from exile, to joyne together in the ufe of Religion and holy Ordinances, except by Gods fpeciall hand gathering them : For he gathered them out oftb? lands, from the E aft and from the Weft , from the %onk&nd from the South*

G Ver.

S2 1' 3 A JL M £ l> V 11.

Verf. 4. They wandered in the wilderneffe y in afo-litary way : they found no city to dwell in.

5, Hungry and thirfty : their foul fainted in them.

Here is defcribed firft the diftrefle of the redeemed in their exile, v. 4, 5. Then their exercife in calling unto Cod. And thirdly, their bringing home, v. 6,7, Whence he inferreth the duty of thankfgiving, whereunto he had before exhorted, v. 8,9. Prom their diftrefle, Learn> 1. Such as the Lord hathapurpofe to draw into the fellowship of himfelf and of his Saints , are iiib-jecl: to wandering and exile, both bodily and fpiritual, as the ex-ercifc of exiled Jfraelites fheweth: They wandered in tbe wilder" nefje* z. The Lords exiled ones do finde no home, till they be brought to ^the fellowihip of the Saints j They wandered in the wildemeffe , in a folitary way : they found no city to dwell in. $. The Lords exiles may be in danger of famine, both bodily and^fpirituall, and like to faint for lack of food, bodily or fpiritual, or both forts , as the banifhed here 5 Were hungry and thirfty, and their foul faimed in them.

Ver. 6. Then they cryed unto the LORD in their trouble: and he delivered them out of their diftreffes.

7. And he led them forth by the right Way, that they might go to a city of habitation.

trom their exercife in their double diftrefle, of banifhmene 2nd famine, and fro r* their delivery* Learn, 1. Straits do put men to feek God in a ferious manner : Then they cryed unto the Lord in their trouble. 2.The earneft prayer of Gods difttetied children ;vanteth not a good anfwer ; And he delivered them out of their diftreffes. $. When the Lord will comfort a fupplicant, he will deliver him from fomanypnrtsofhis trouble, as may fervctd) lead him on hisjourneyj he will furnifh food, and direction, both whither to go, and by what way to go: And he led them by the right way, that they might goto, a city of habitation. 4. To be

di-

dire&ed of God what to do > whether it be in relation to matters temporal or fpiritual^s a fpecial benefit) and a faire fruit of j layer •• For he whom the Lord doth guide> mall walkfafely 3 and profper in his way : He led them by the right wayjbat they might go to a city of habitation.

Ver. 8. 0 that men wouldpraife the LORT) for his goodneffe : ana for his wonderful rrorkj to the children of men.

9, For he fatisfieth the longing foul : and fillsth the hungry foul With goodneffe.

From the duty required of the exile now returned homes Learn^ i .The mercies of theLord Ihewed to his own,do call for praifing of God by themfelves, and all beholders 5 they call for praife, both in fecret and in fociety $ 0 that men would praife the Lori for his goodneffe, 2. The Lords manner of delivering of his own out of their great troubles, whether bodily or fpiritual , hath ordinarily fome obfervable wonder in it: 0 that men would, peaife the Lord for his wonderfull works to the children of'men . J. The poor and needy fupplicanrs do live upon Gods furniture 3 he is a provider for ftich^and lettcth them want nothing , but fatisfieth them fufficiently : and this is no fmall comfort unto us and matter of prai le unto God ; For he fatisfieth the longing foul, and filleth the hungry foul with goodneffe.

Vert 10. Such as fit in darkneffe ; and in the (btdow of death: being bound in affliction ard iron.

11 ♦ Becaufe they rebelled again (I the words of God: and contemned the counfel of the mofi High.

12. Therefore he brought down thtir heart ivith labour 1 they fell down , and there was none to help.

1 3. Then they cryed unto the LORD in their trouble ; and he favedtkem out of their dijlreffes.

G 2 i<\>lfe

14. tie brought them out of darkyeffe and the fha-don> of death : And brake their bands in [under.

15. Oh that men would praife tht LORT) for hi* goodneffe : and for his Wonderful work* to the children of men.

16. For he hath broken the gates of braffe : and cut the bar res of iron in [under.

Here is fct down the fecond exerdfe of Gods people,to wit, by captivity and imprifonment brought upon them for their fins>and their delivery from it y upon their turning to God , with theufe thereof. Whence learn, 1. As liberty of ourperfons to go a-bcut our callings freely, is no frnall benefit; fo imprifonment is a fore affliction, even a fore of living death, and a fort of burial of the quick; For they fit in darfinejfe , and in tbejhadow of death. 1. Bonds and chaincs put upon the prifoner,do adde much weight unto the heavy condition of the imprifoned,'and yet the Lords people are fubjeft to both 1 for here is preftippofed , Thef may be bound in affliction andiron, in their prifon. }. Itisa-boveall the affliction of imprifonment and bonds, when the caufe of the imprifonment is not righteoufnefle, but, becaufe they have rebelled againft the word ofGod> and contemned the counfel of the tnoftHigjb. 4. The not bearing the eafie yoke of obedience ^may bring on the heavier yoke of Iron, bonds and in prilonment upon us, as here is exprefled. 5. Thegreatnefie oftheMajefty of God, aggravateth the fin of defpifing his Word > Tbcy contemned the coiinfcll of the moftHigb. 6. As the Word of the Lord is both deep counfel for wifdome,and alfo profitable advice for us; fo the contemning of it is fo much the greater finne> and draweth on the greater wrath: Tbcy were bound in affliction and iron, becaufe they rebelled againft the words of God, and contemned the counfel of the moft High* 7. The Lord bringeth men intofore diftrefies,to make them lenfible of their defpifing his authority ; and to break their natural pride, and ftoutneffe of heart againft him , and to (new them the vanity of all their former: flefhly confidence; Therefore he'brought down their heart with labour. 8. Affliction is then come to the height, anditscom-pleit mcafure, when the finner is made fenfible of his own weak-neflc,and doth fee that there is no help for him/ave in God alone?

Tbcji

P SAL ME CVII. S$

They fctl down, and there was none to help. 9. When all help and comfort under heaven doth faile, relief may be found in God for them that cry unto him for it: There tqq/s none to help, then they cryed to the Lord in their trouble* 1 o.The Lord will not only hear and help them who are unjuftly imprifoned, but thofc alfo who for their (ins are fo punifhed .- They cryed , and befa-vedtbtm out of their diftrejfes. 11. Itmatteis not how deep the danger be wherein a man is , when he turneth to God for relief; for fo great as his diftreflfe is , fo great (hall be his delivery ; He brought them out ofdarfinejfe and tbcjbadow of death>and brake their bonds infunder. 12. The end of the delivery of poor /inners, is, that they may glorifie the Lord, and may invite 0-thers to do the like : for this here is a part of the thankful mans duty , 0 that men would praife the Lord for his good?ieJfe,andfor bU wonderful wor^s to the children of men; 1 $. No power of man, no bonds 3 no eppofition which any creature is able to make, can hinder the delivery of the man whom God will own: He hath broken the gates ofbrajfc, and cut the banes of iron in [under.

Ver, if* FooUf, becaufe of'their tranfgrejfion: and becaufe of their iniquities are affliSed.

18. Their foulabhorreth all manner of meat : and ' they draw near unto the gates of death.

19. Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble X hefaveththem out of their diftreffes,

20♦ He fent hid word % and healed them: and delher -ed them from their deftruElions.'

2f. Oh that men Vcou/d praife the LORD for hU goodnejfe: and for his wonderful work* to the children of men,

22. And let them facrifce the facrifices of thankfgi* ving: and declare his workj Vvith reioycing.

The third cxercife of Gods people, isby fiknefle of body 5 the drawing on whereof he fheweth to be by fin, v. 17, 18. The means of delivery to be by prayer, v. 19. whereupon they a:e recovered as (iod givethorder 3 v. 20. and the ufe of this is fet down, v. 21,12. Whence learn, 1. As other troubles come

G j for

for finning againfl God, fo doth fickneffe come amongft the reft: Fooles becaufc of their tranfgreffion^ and bcciufe of their iniquities areafflifted. -. Sin doth blindefinners 3 and bereave them of the right ufe of their reafon; and makes them choofe trifles.with the lofle of what mould be moil precious: therefore they are juft • ly called fooles. $. Natural means of life and refrefhment , are unfavory and unable to refrefli, except God give the man ability to make ufe of them,and put his bleffing into them : Their foul abborrctb all manner of meat. 4. As in other troubles, fo in fick-nefle, men are net eafily. brought to the fenfe of their fin, till trouble be a: the height, and the man made low : Their foul abborrctb all nunncr of meat , and they draw near to the gates of death. 5. Great is the ftupidity of a fleeping conscience, which cannot be wakened up to feek Gok till extremity come : They draw near to the gate, of death, then they cry uivothe Lord in their trouble. 6. When men are brought unto the fenfe of their fins and mifdefervings > and of their danger, and of their own weak-nefle, and thereby made to feek unto the Lord 3 the mercy and relief is near at hand : Then they cried unto the Lor din their trouble 5 fo he \aved therr: out of their diftrejfes : And here is to be feen mercy and goodneiTe in God, tocaufe (ickneilesas his Serjeants' and MelTengers to lay hold on the fugitive (inner. 7. Neither fickneffe nor health do come or go 3 but God giveth order to them, as to his o \n fervants: He faith to fic\neffc, go from a man> and to hczljhjtiumz unto him : He fent his iVordj and healed them* B. When trouble doth (hew wrath, and tfrnt doth weaken the fenfe of fin , and fenfe of fin fends the man to feek mercy, then God will readily remove all his troubles together : Re fent his word and healed them, and delivered them from their defirufti ns. 9. As men have found mercies of God, fo'mould they ftudy to be thankful, and fpecially in fuch a way as may be moft profitable to others: 0 that men would pra fc the Lord for his gooineffe , and for his wonderful worlds to the children of men* 10, Mb rail and fpirituall fervice is more ac-ceptabletoGod then any ceremonial performance . the facrifice of thanks is move then th facrifice of an oxe ; Let them ficri-fice the facrifecsoftbanfeiving. n. The fpecial matter of joy 'in the receiving 1 fa benefit; is the manifeftation of Gods refpeel: to us, in his working for us; And let them declare hhwxrks with rejoycing*

Ver,

Ver. 23. They that go down to the Sea infhips , that do bufineffe in great waters :

24. 1'befe fee the works of the LORD : and his wonders in the deep.

2 4.. iV &* commandethy and raifeth the fiormy Voindez which Ufteth up the Vvaves thereof.

2 6. Thej mount up to the heaven: they go down <t m gain to the depths : their foul is melted becaufe of trouble.

27. Theyreeletoandfro, andftagger like adrunk^ en man : and are at their mis end*

The fourth exercife of Gods children, is by their danger in Sea, and their delivery from their danger. Whence learn, 1. The Art of Navigation and following of the Merchant-Trade by Sea, how dangerous foever it be ; yet is lawful, and allowed or God, for comparing of mens affaires, in commerce between Nation and Nation: for this is fet down here as the vocation and occupation of feme men, to wit, oftbofe that go down to the Sea in. jhifs , that do b;tfmeffes in great waters. 2.Some fort of perfons have more occatfon of obfervation, and experience of remarkable paffages 0/providence in preferving of mens lives, then others have, and thefe rcoft of all fhould bear witneffc of Gods work according to their experience $ Thefe fee the wor\s of the Lord, and his wonders intbe deep. 3. There hnoftormc or motion intheSea, orblowingof the winds out of any part, butasGod aduaily dorh raife them : For he commandcib , and raifeth the ftormywindti which Ufteth up the waters thereof. 4. When God will try a man by trouble, he will not leave him till he make him fenfiblc of his frailty, weakneffe , and unability toc» vercome dangers .• They mount up to the heaven , they go down again to the depths: their foul u melted bceaufe of trouble. The/ reel too and fro, and jtdgger life a drun{en mm, tyc.

G4 Ver.

A vJXAAuIYl. JU4 'W Y **♦

Ver. 28. Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble : and he bringeth them out of their diftreffes,

29 He maketh the ftcrme a caltne : [0 that the v$aves thereof are ft ill.

30. Then are they gladbeeaufethey be quiet: fo he bringeth them unto their de fired haven.

Iq their delivery from the ftormej Learn. 1. Albeit the LOR D doth deliver many from fhipwrack by Sea , yet he takes, none of them for witnefies of his mercy, but fuch as had recourse to him in their ftrait by prayer: Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble •> thole are the mem whom the Lord remarketh, 2. The fervent prayer of the Lords Redeemed, who at length at leaft make <7od their refuge in trouble, have deliverance tor the fruit following upon it; fbey ay, and he bringeth tbcm out of their diftrejfes, 3, As the railing of a ftorme is from the Lord, fo thequietingofit again is his work alfo; and both the one and the other work hath'the time and meafure of it iodifpofed of, as may beft feive to hispurpofe : HemJ^th the ftorme a crime; fo that the -waters thereof arcftill. 4- According as is mens griefin trouble 3 fo is orfhould be the greatneffe of their joy in their delivery .* Then are they glad, because they be quiet,

5. So many Sea-voyages, are fo many evidences of Gods fo oft conducting and convoying of Sea-men to and fro: So he bringeth them to their defired haven*

Ver. 3T. Oh that men wouldpraife the LORD for hit goodnefs: and for his Wonderful-&or\i to the children cf men.

32. Let them ex alt him alfo in the Congregation of the peop'e: and praife him in the ajfembly of the Elders.

From the u!e of this exercife here required 5 Learn, 1* That it is the part of every man > whocometo the knowledge of any

expc-

PSALMb CJVI1. *9

experience or new proof of Gods mercy , in fpccial to any of his people, not only to acknowledge Gods goodnefle by themfelvesa but alfo to wifti that the reafon of his praifes were known to all men, and that all men might praife God ajfoforit: O that; men would praife the Lord for his goodncffe, 2. It is the duty of a thankful man, not only to praife God for the experience he hath had of Gods goodnefle in his own perfon 5 but alfo to praife God upon that occafion , for any other the wonderful works which the Lord worketh daily for the children of men ; 0 that men would praife the Lord for his wonderful worlds to the children of men. $. Sea-men after their returning home., mould carefully obferve the meetings of the Church, as for other tea* Tons ; fo becaufe they have been wichdrawen fo long from thofe aflemblies, while their voyage did laft : Andlet themexalthim alfo intbe Congregation ofthepeople. 4# Befide the aflembly of the whole Congregation , the Scripture maketh mention of the Church or Congregation, or aflembly of the Elders, who had theoverfight and governing of the particular Synagogues and Churches of the people : For here and elfewhere , befide the Congregation of the people, there is mention made of the aflembly of the Elders, as diftinguifhed from the aflembly of the people : And let them praife him in the affembly of the Elders. 5. As prayers are, and mould be made in the Congregation for fuch of the flock as are in any fpecial danger of their lives j fo duty recjuireth that praifes (hould be offered fof their remarkable deliveries , or recoveries out of thofe dangers: for of fuch as are delivered from ihipwrack, it is faid , Let them exalt him alfo in the Congregation of the people. 6. As it is a part of the peoples duty, to acquaint the Elders of the Congregation with fuch pat fagesofC/odsmoftremarkable providence about them, as may bembft for glorifying of God, and for the peoples edifying ; fa it is a part of the work of the Elderfhip to take notice of, and make the beft ufe in their prudence of what falleth out among their flocks, whereby all may be edified : For as the right /udge-ing of Gods works of providence requireth prudence and wif-domjfothey who are fet over the Congregation, asmofl: ■eminent-therein for their wifdomeand prudence, fhould go about this part of their charge among other duties; For it is faid 3 And y let thempraife him in the affembly of the Elders %

Ver,

Ver. 3 3. fife turneth rivers into a mlierneffs : and tbeVvater-fprings into dry ground :

34. A fruitful land into barrenneffe^ for the wick? tdneffe of them that Atoe11 therein.

In the latter part of the Pfalme, the Lord is praifedfbr his wifdome, in making changes upon Countreys and Nations, mens perfons and eftates, fome in jufticc, fome in mercy, as he feeth fit: of which changes he reckoneth up five. The firfl; whereof is, the turning of a fertile land into barrennefie for therinhabitants fins* Whence learn, 1. When fertile land be-cometh barren, and men are cut fhort of their commodities by fea or land, by the creatures not yielding fervice, as they were wont to do, men mould lift their eyes above all fecond caufes, and fix them on God, who what way he thinketh beftbringeth the change: He tutnetb rivers into 1 wilderinffe, and the water-fprings into dry ground; that is to hy^a fruitful land into barren* nefs.i.Thc proper meritorious caufe of Gods curfing of a fertile land, is the fins of the inhabitants, whom God will have fo an-fwcred in their labours on the ground, as they anfwer the Lord in his husbandry and paines taken upon them, and whom God will chaftife for their fin, and fo move them to repent: He turneth a fruitful land into barrennefie, for the wickedneffe of them that dwell therein.

Ver* 3 ?♦ He turneth the wildernefs into a jtanding water: and dry ground into Water springs >

36. And there he maketh the hnngry to dftell; that they may prepare a city for habitation.

37. And (owe the fields> andplant vineyards , -which may yield fruits of intreafe.

38. He bleffed them *lfo 9 fo that they are multiplied greatly : and fuffereth not their cattel to de* creafe.

The fecond change mentioned, is of a barren land into fertility. Whence learn, i. The fertility • of land is not to be attributed to mens induftry, but unto Gad: He turn-

e*fr the wildernejjc into a {landing water, and. dry ground into vox-ter-fprings. 2. If God afflict, his jufticefindcth the caufe of it in man ; but if he do gooc to any man, it is of his own good pleafure, without any caufe in man: therefore no reafon is given here of this change, as was of the former, but (imply , He turn-ctb dry ground into water fprings. 3 The Lord taketh pleasure to provide for the needy, and they /hall be forced to acknowledge hisgoodnefle inhis provifionfor them ; And there he makctb the hungry to dwell, that they may prepare a city for habitation 4. When God openeth 3 door of blefling men, he will have it improved, and ordinary meanes diligently ufed, as here, He will have them [owe the fields, and plant vineyards? which may yield fruits of her cafe. 5. When the Lord is pleafed ro bieffe men, he will blefle. them largely in the growth of their familiesand fub* fiance, and will extend hiscare even to their beafts ; he blef-(ctb them alfo, fo as they are multiplied greatly, andjuffereth not their cattelto decreafc.

Ver. 39* Again, they are minified and brought low, through opprejfion, affiiHion andforrow.

The third change is, by fpoiling a populous and well-planted countrey. Whence learn, 1. Such as have been raifed from a I01V condition, can hardly bear prolperity, but are readily purled up with it 3 as this change prefuppofeth. 2. God can bring down fuch as doabufeprofperity, and make them as bale as ever they were y A gain,they are minified and brought low. 3. The Lord hath more waycs then one tofpoilea fertile countreyj for albeit he do make it continue fertile, yet he can bring the fword of the cnemic on it: They are brongbt low > through opprcjjion, afflict ion andforrow,

Ver. 40, He Votireth contempt upon Princes : and caufeeh them to wander in the wildernefs, where there is no way.

A fourth change is, in the pulling down Princcs,and putting Statefmen to perplexity. Whence learn, \. As Kings and Rulers do not keep then place^ and power, and eftimaticn among

men,

men, but by Gods invefting them with dignity, fo when they lofe their dignity and aredefpifed, they mult look to God as the doer, and fearch the quarrel: for God will honour them that honour him, and they who defpife him (hall be lightly e-ftecmed : He poureth contempt upon Princes, z. It is God who givethwifdom and prudence unto men, for ruling of States; and when their wit is employed for their own earthly intereft, he can take their wifdome from them, and give them a cup of giddie wine, and put them in fuch perplexity, as they know not what to do ; he can banifh them out of their countrey, and fend them as vagabonds through the earth; Hecaufeth them t$ wander in the wildernejfe, where there is no way.

Ver, 41. Tet fetteth he thepoore on high from ajflitfyon : and maketb him families like afiocl^

The fifth change is, in comforting the affli&ed, andraifing them out of the duft into a better condition, after they are humbled in the fenfe of their own poverty. Whence learn y i.Al* beit the Lord cafteth down the mighty, and putteth tne wife to perplexity, yet he will purfue them no further then unto humiliation, if fo be they take with their fins, and feek reconcile 3tion with God, as his Word prefcribeth,and depend upon God as* needy poor foules, he will lift them up again $ let he fetteth ibepoore on high from affliftion* 2. As pride and felf-eftimati-on, becaufe of riches, or power, or wifdom, or any other fcarthly reafon, goeth before mine; fo lowlinefle of minde, humiliation in the' fenleof fin and of unworthinefle,and of weak-neffe and witlefnefle, driving a man to depend on God, as a begger doth for almes, goeth before exaltation; He fetteth the poorc on high from affliction, and mafieth him families life a floch v

Ver.42. The righteous/hall fee it y and fejojee; and all iniquity jhall flop her mouth .

43. TVho fo is W//*, and will obftrve thofe things : even they jhtll Understand the loving k'tndnefs if the LORD.

He

1

Heclofcththe Pfolme with tvvopromifes, one of performing what is herefaid, to the comfort of the righteous, and flrame of the misbelieving proud /inner: The other is of manifefting his loving kindneife to fuchas do obferve and make ufc of Gods providence. Whence learn, 1. Such as being juftified by faith, do endeavour to order their converfaticn righteoufly, fhail be witneffes of the Lords performing of his Word : Tberigh-teom Jhall fee it. 2. As there is joy in believing of the Lords Word, fo there is yet more joy in beholding the performance of his Word $ The tightens jhall fee it and re Joyce. $. Among other mercies bellowed upon the righteous man, this is one, that the Lord putteth him upon the counfel of his working, doth expound his providence unto him by his Word , teacheth him to compare Gods Word and his Works, and maketh him wit-nefle that God is as good as his Word ; The righteous Jhall fee it and rejoyce* 4« The wicked fhall be difappointed of his expectation, in regard of the good which he hoped to himfelf, and {hall finde himfelf miftaken about the godly, whole wayes he counted to be folly: The righteous fhall re}oyce> and all iniquity fhall flop her mouth. 5. As the works of the Lords good-neffe, jufticeand mercy are wrought in the light of men, that they may obferve his way, and keep the oblervarion thereof in memory: fo are they the wifeft Tort of men,who do obferve Gods providence beft, and do compare it with the Lords Word, that they may underftand it rightly ; Who jo is wife, and will obferve the fe things. The wife man, and the obferverof Gcrfs wayes toward the children of men, here is one, 6.Albeit there be very few wifeobferveisof Gods proceeding with men in jufticecr mercy,yet fo many as are his difcipks,Scudcnts of his Word, and do walk anfwerably thereunto, fhall never want matter of observation of Gods Wndnefl'e toward tbemfelves- For rcho fo is wife, even they Jhall obferve the loving iindnejfe of the Lord.

PSALM

P4 PSALME CVIII.

PSALM CVIII.

THis Pfalme is compofed of a pare of the fifty feventh Pfaltii* from v. 7 to the end, and of a part of the fixty Pfalme, from v. $. to the end, but in a diverfe notion 5 for in the fifty feven and fixty Pfalmes, 'David is praying tor experience of the truth of the promife made to him, concerning the Kingdome oflfracl* and viftory over his enemies on all fides, being now in hazard by them, but here he is making ufeof the experience received, and of vi<ftorie obtained over enemies within and without the Kingdome oflfracl, for the encouragement of the Church militant to the ens of the world, againft inteftine and forreign enemies whatfoever. Again, in thefe two former Pfalmes, whence he doth repeat the words of this Pfalme > he had his own intereft to plead, beficie what was typical in hisexercife : Here, his own intereft being fetlc-d, and the promife made to himfelf performed; he recommendeth this experience of his in a more abftraft notion from his own particular, and in a more typical way of a pledge of the victory of the true Church militanr, under her Head and Lord, over all her both inteftine enemies and for-reign, without the verge of the vifible Proteflion, that in the faith of Chrift 5 and hope of his prevailing in the work of enlarging and reforming of the vilible Catholick Church, and overthrowing of the open enemies of Chrifts Kingdome, typified under the exercife of David, thetruefubjedsof Chrift might go on in their warfare with the greater confidence.

This Pfalme hath two parts: In the former is the thankfgiving of faith, and promife of praife, in hope of obtaining all, which the Church is here to pray for, ver. i 3 2, 3, 4, $< In the latter part is the prayer for prefervation of the Church, vcr»6. with confidence to be heard and helped, whatfoever impediment appear, againft all who ftand out againft Chrifts Kingdome, whe:her within the vifible Church, v* 7, 8. or whether without, fuch as are profeffed enemies unto it, v. 9, io, 11. which prayer is followed forth, 1/.12. and comfortably clofed with affuranee of the Churches vi&oty by the affiftance of £od; v. J J« .

Ver,

PSALMh CJVill. px

Ver. i. f\ god % my heart it'fixed: 1 wis K^/fing and give praife even with mj glory. 2. A\X>*kc Pfottery avdHtrpe: I my felf mil a-rvake early.

Inthethankfgivingoffaith, and promife of praife, he com-pofeth himfelf inthebeft frame of fpirit unto the work, and fictceh himfelf by all meanes unto it. Whence learn , i .It is our duty, efpecially when we are about any piece of immeJiatc fpi-ritual worftiip, to take heed what we are doing, what the work is about which we are going, who the Lord is with whom we have to do, and how our heart is difpofed, that fo we may approve our felves to God with the more comfort: for this doth the Pfalmifts example teach us ; O God, my heart is fix* ed 3 1 milling, 2. In Gods worfhip it is very needful we fhould have our mindes prefent without diverfion* and our affections compofed, and let rightly toward the Lord, and the work in hand, as here, CMy heart is fixed. 3. As a man firft tuneth his inftrument, andthenplayethonit: fofliouldthe holy fervanc ot God firft labour to bring his fpirit, heart and affection* into a foiid and fetled frame for worfhip^and then go to workjAfy heart is fixed: or prepared firmely, I will fing and give praife. 4. As thegloy of man above the brute creatures, is, that from a rea-fonable mindc he can expretfe what is his will by his tongue: fo the glory of the Saints above other men, is to have a tongue directed by the heart, for exprefling of Gods praife: I will fing and givepraife, even with my glory. ?. That only is our glory, wherein and whereby we do moft glorifie God: for this caufe the tongue directed by a holy heart, is here called Davids glory f I will fing and give praife, even with my glory. 6.Under typical termes we are taught to make ufe of alh fanctified meanes for ftirring.of us up unto Gods fervice ; for this the Pfalmiftintendeth, when he faith $ tAwil^e Pfaltery and Harp. 7« We our felves mult firft be ftirred up to make right u.'e of the meanes. before themeanes can be Sua ftix us up: therefore/aith he ; I my felf will amie earlj,

Ver. 3. I up ill praife thee, 0 LORD\ among the f*dple % and I willing praife unto thee among the Nations.

4. forth} mercy \$ great above the Heavens: and thy truth reacheth unto the clouds:

5. Be thou exaltcd> 0 GOD, above the Heavens; and thy glory above all the earth.

Here is the praife of Go J, and the rcafbns thereof; Whence learn j 1. It is no fmall help unto the difcharge of a duty, to engage the heart unto God for the doing of it, for in efted that is the mofl: we can attain unto in this life,but in the next life we fhall have full vent for our will to praife God, and fhall follow our purpofe with perpetual perfevcrance: I will fraife thee 3 .0 Lord, among the people. 2. Sincerity hath confidence to profeffe its purpofe before the Lord : I will praife tbce3 0 Lord* J. As it is the duty anddefire alfo of a true worfhipper, that ail the world fhould beftirredup to praife the Lord: fo ic was the comfort of the Church of thejewes, toforefee the joyningof the Gentiles in the fong, and to fee the Gentiles ftirred up by thefongsof the Jewifh Church $ I will praife tbee, 0 Lord, a~ jnong the people, and will ftng praifes unto thee among the Nations. 4. The matter and reafons of Gods praife, are higher then the woi fliipper can reach, and larger then he can fathom, and in fpecial the mercy of the Lord toward his people, is larger then the wide circle of Heaven: Thy mercy is great above the Heavens. $. There is more ftuffe 3nd fubitance of good in the Lords promifes, then the ftiarpeft-fighted Saint ever did or can perceive 5 tor when we have followed the promife, to finde out all the truth which is in ir, we meet with a cloud of unfcai enable riches, and are forced to leave i: there $ for fo much is included in this, Thy truth reacheth unto the clouds. 6. The height of ourpraifingof God 3 is to put the work ofpraifing God uponhimfelfand to point him out unto others , as going about the magnifying of his own Name,and to be gbd for it, as here j Be thou exulted^ 0 God, above the Heavens, and thy glory above M tbeemk.

Ver,

Ver. 6. Thai thy beloved way be delivered: fave With thy right hand, and Attjwer me.

Af:ertheprai(cofGod from Faith , follewerh the prayer of faith. fVhtrein learn, i. The ( hurch is the Lords beloved, or the incorporation more loved then any thing elfe in the world, therefore here called, Thy beloved, z, Becaufethe Church is Gods beloved the care of it mould be moft in our minde, and the love of the p efervation of it, fhould d. avv forth our prayer moil in favour of it; That thy beloved may be delivered, fave. 3: Whcfoever is entrufted with any publick charge, CivH or Ecclefiaftickin a fpeciai manner, fhould make the piefervntion and welfare of Gods people, their chief aime, and the chief matter of their prayer, and the greateft fatis faction of their defires, as here is done; That thy beloved may be delivered, fave, and an[wcr me. 4 As it is prefuppofed that the Church mall be frequently in danger, fo it is certain that her delivey and prefervation mud be brought about by God id his way, and by his power, and God muft be truilei with this woik; therefore laith he ilbattby beloved may be delivercd, favewitb thy right h&nd.

Ver. Gael hath fpokenin his holineffe, 1 will re Joyce* I rviB divide Shechem : and mete out the vallej of Sue* cotk.

8 : Gilead is mine i Manaffeh \imine % Epht.iim alfo is the ftrength of mine head'. Jndah is my Lawgiver,

Here the Pfalmift looketh unto the word of promife for his ark fwer. Whence learn, 1. Supplicants muft take the anfwer of their prayers from the Word of promife, for he who findetfi his warrant to pray, hath his anfwer belbe he. begin to pray, for he prayeth according tothe Will of god, 'and fo he hatH hi* petition; fodoth David teach r God balh ffo^en in hh holi-tiejfe. 2. Faiihclofin^ wi:li a promife will furniflt joy ;o the H ielicvcri

p8 PSALME CVIII.

beleever* before he enjoy the performance or it: God bath fpo\cn t faith he, I will re\oycc % 3. The believer of a general promife, may branch out the particulars in it* which are not performed no lefle clearly* then if they had been particularly expreffed : for fo doth the Pfalmift teach* faying, I will divide Sccbem } and mete out the valley of Succotb, which thing c : me to pafie as he believed* and the whole Kingdome unde< him was now fetled for his particular intereft * when this Pialm was com-pofed : but as it typified the reducing or ihe diftrafted parts of Chiifts Kingdom into the unity of Reformation* and joync fubjeciion to his Government* it was to be performed noleffe certainly then the diftracted parts of the typical Kingdome of Ifrael was to be joyned in uniforme fubjc&ion under David, who here faith ; Gilead is mine , Manaffeb is mine, Ephraimal-(0 is the ftrengtb of my beady $udab is my Lawgiver.

Ver. 9. Moab is my wafi-pot, over Edom Veill 1 caft opt my Jhoe t over tbiliftia mil I triumph*

After compofing of the tribes of Ifrael) reprefentine the vifiblc Churchy he turner h him to the forreign enemies of the King-dome* and afliireth the Church of victory over them alfo. Whence learn, 1. As in the typical victories of David, fo in the Conqueft which Chrift maketh, fome are more fincereand cordial fubje&s* fome do feigne fubje&ion out of conftraintor carnal motives* and as in Davids, fo in Chrifts victories* fome are vefllls of honour; all ferving for the vtfe of the great houfe : Moab is my waJh-pot y over Edom will 1 caft out my Jhoe , over Fbiliftia will 1 triumph. 2. When faith doth look through the profped of Gods Word and Promifes, it will difcover afarre oft*many advantages, as here we fee.

Ver. 10. who will bring me into the firong fity ? who will lead me into Edom f

II. Wilt not thou , OGod y Who baft caft m of? and tyilt not thou, 0 (jod, go forth rritb enr hoftts ?

tn the war again ft Edom, the difficulties arc reprefentcdy frhich the Chureh militant mall meet with in her battels a-gainftopen enemies, which diifi. ulties are here ovcrcum e by faith, encouraging her againft all impediments. Whencelearn, U The Church of believers may fin.x, and fhall fin^e in lome paflages of their rxeiciie, fom mainc difficulties meeting them in their progrelfe, arid fomc enemies harder to overcome then others j fome devils mn.t (Wong in their pofteiTion then others, reprefented here by the fir ngeft City of Edom j Who will bring me into thejtreng City ? z. When we meet with any difficulty greater then any former hath been, faith mult give more employment unco God, and put in to him tor more aififtance and ft r en Jth: Who mil lea I me into Edom'.roih not thou,6 God ? 3. Faith muft net be difcouraged in her warfare, from any tokens of Gods difplcature, formerly le: forth ag inft his people, but rather muft draw encouragement from thence, taking all the executions of thrcatniugs for fo many pawnes and pledges of the performing of promifes, as the Pfalmift doth here : Wilt not tbouwjjoh^ijicaflusoff} and wilt not thou gofortb with our bo fits ?

Vcr. 12. give m helpfrcm trouble : for zake i$ the hch of man.

He repeateih his prayer, and infifteth upon his requeft Whence learn, i. When the believer findeth his faith weakefty he muft make ufe of prayer, as the infirme man doth cf a ftaffe in his walking; Give us help from trouble. 2. He who would have Gods help in any bufineffe© muft quit confidence in mans help* and the feeing or the vanity of mans help, muft make the believer to truft the more unto, and expeft the more confidently Godshelp> as here is done; Give us help from trouble, for vain is the help ef man.

Verf. 13. Through God wc'*jhall do valiantly ; for he it is that jk*U trejddown mr encrfiies*

He ciofeth the P.alme ccmfotta8l$ in ajlurancc of the H 2 Churches

Churches vi&ory. Whence learn, i. Whatsoever may be the varietie of the exercifes of faith, victory and triumph (hall clotethewar, and crown the wraftler ; Tbrou b Goi we Jhall do valiantly, z Albeit the meanes be nothing but vanity without God, yet they muft be ufed, for they are fomething when they are ufed by us, and put in Gods hand : for, Through God we fall do vdiantly. 5. What the Lord doth by the be-iiever as his fervant, or by any other inft.ument, God mull have the glory of ir$ Through God f faith he) wejhall do valiantly. 4. The faith of the Churches victory over her enemies, is grounded upon Gods engaging in the war, for the Church, and againft our enemies; Forheitis that JJull tread down all our enemies .

PSALM CIX.

To the chief Mufician. A Tfalme of David.

DAvid 3 as a type of Chrift, h^th here to do with his and the Lords defperate- enemies. The Pfaime hath three parts. In the fir it part, he complaineth againft them unto God, v. 1 j 13 ?> 4^' In the iecond, hepronounceth the fearful vengeance of God againft them, by way of imprecation in the Spirit ofprophecie, untoi/. * 1. In the third part, heputtethup a prayer to God for himfclf, and is comforted. In all which he is a type of Chrift, and hath an eye unto Chrifts Kingdome, and to the cefperate enemies thereof, as the Apoftle Peter doth teach us in his application oi what is here fpoken, as a Pro-phecie to be in part compltared intfudas, Atts 1. 20. And fo David here, is not fatisfying his own private revenge againft AcbitopbeL or any other tuch like traitor, but as a Prophet foretelling what judgement was to fall on the defperate enemies of God, and as a bunt fubferibingto Gods righteous judgements, for theurtourof all oppoiers of Chrifts Kingdom,

Veifl. rjOW not thj feue % O God of 07

s.Foa

2. For the month of the wicked, and the mouth of the deceitful are opened again ft me ; they have fpoken a» gainji me With a lying tongue.

3. They compared me about alfo with Veords of hatred : and fon/Jot againfl meVeithout acatife.

4. For my l»ve they are mine adver/aries : but I give my felf unto prayer.

*. And they have rewarded me evil for good: and hatred for my love.

In his complaint, he praycth the Lord to (hew him felf in ju» ftice agiinft his defperate enemies, and chargeth them for aife and malicious calumnies, and wicked ingratitude again ft him. Whencelearn, i.As the moft innocent and holy fervants of God arefubjeel to heavy iianders, and falfe calumnies r^ifed a-gainft them, lb the beft remedy and relief in this cafe, is to go to God with the matter, as here the Pfalmifl: dorh. 2. The Lord will bear witnefle in due time unto the innocency of his. oppreffed andunjuftly defamed fervants, as here the prophet prayeth for in his prayer, and doth expect it: Hold not thy puce, 0 God. 3. A good confeience may be fure to be cleared from falfe imputations, and mould comfort it felf with Gods approbation in the meane time, becaufe whatfoever infamiethe believer dorh lie under i the Lord will bring forth his innocency and commendation : for this reafon among others, the Pro* phetdoth call the Lord , 0 god of my praife. 4. Impudent back-biters will put fuch a face upon the moit wicked calumny and (lander of an innocent fervant of God. and will avow it o-penly in his face, as if it were of truth, ashere we fee / For the mouth of the wicked, and the mouth of the deceitful are opened agiinjl me, they have fpofan againji me with a lying tongue. 5 A:« innocent man maybe fo circumvented with calumnies and lies forged of him > as he (hall be unable to findeout any way to clear himfelf, as here we fee 5 They compiftci me about alfo with words of hatred* 6 Albeit, when an innocent man hath to do with a wicked and impudent flanderer, he may be put to no iefle ha d cxerci(e,rhen if he were yoked in a combat to fight for his life,yet it is comfort when God and his own confeience know that he fuffereth unjuftly : They fought againft me without a aufe. 7-In^ nocency, kindneffe and good deeds, done by the godly, unto the

wicked inftruments of Snan, will not exempt them from their malicious calumniating of them, yea, no man is more fubje&to this requital then they who do. defervebeft of the wicked world, even Chrift and his lervnts are of all men moft traduced : For my love they arc my adverfiries, faith the type ofCh: ill, and Chrift in him. 8. Ir is not the way to overcome the calumnies of the wicked, to render reviling for reviling, or to loofe the tongue unto evil words; b'>tthe only way to eve come all, is to go to God as Supplicants, asherethe Pfalmift did ; But Tgave Tiny felf to prayer. 9. When m.iicious lips agrdnft a man arc joynei with the ingratitude oi the Calumniator, it makrh up a fearful ditty againft the flander£r$as hci:c D And they hive rewarded me evil for gooLmi hatred for my love.

Ver. 6. Set thotiarricked man over him: and let Satan (land at his right hand :

7. When he Jha/l be judged, let him be condemned : and let his prayer become fin.

8. Let his dayesbefew: and let another takehU office :

9. Let his children be fatherlcffe y and his wife a widow.

10. Let his children be continually vagabonds,and beg: let themfeek their bread at:? out of their defo? late places.

11. Let the extortioner catch all that he hath: and let the H* anger fpoile his labour.

12. Let there be none to extend mercy unto him: neither let there be any to favour his father leffe children.

13. Let hit pofierity be cut off' and in the generation following let their name be blotted out.

14. Let the iniquity of his fathers be remembred

With the LORD) and let not the fin of his mother be

blotted out.

15. Let them be before the LOR*D continually;

thai

-

that he may cut off the memory of them from thi earth.

16. Hecaufe that he remembred not to (hew mircj , but perfecuted the poore and needy man 1 that he might even flay the broken in heart.

17. As he loved cuffing, fo let it come unt9 him: as he delightednot in bleffwg^ fo let it be farre from him.

18. *s4s he clothed himfelf with curfing, like as vcith his garment: fo let it come into his bowels like water , andlifa oile into his bones.

19. Let it be unto him as the garment which covered him, and for a girdle wherewith he u girded continually.

20 # Let this be the reward of mine advetfanes from the LORD: and of them thatffeak evil againfi my foul.

In this fecond part of the Pfalme, he pronounccch the moft fearful vengeance of God upon malicious calumniators, and that as a Prophet and the Meffenger of God,to (hew the wrath of God againft fuch wicked perfons in general, and efpccially a» gainft the enemies of the Gofpei $ for he fpeaketh here as the type cf Chrift, as Peter fheweth, applying this prophecie to Judatby name, Acts 1. 20. Wheuelwn^ 1. Albeit it he not lawful for any man to ufe fuch imprecations, out of private revenge, or againft any man in particular, as Vwii doth, who was led as a Prophet by the Spirit of God. yet this doth (hew unio us, that fearful and heavie are thofe judgements which attend ingrateful calumniators of honeft men, andinfpecial all fuch as are enemies to Chrift and to his Gofpel, and ta his faithful Miniftcrs, or to thofe in whom the work of Gods. grace doth appear, and that in fpecial for their deviftng and foftering lies and (landers of them that profefle Gods truth, of purpofeto make them, and the truth which they rnaintaine, and all of their kindc, to be the more hated and defpifed a** mongmen: for this which is written here, rtiallbs their judgment., according as they draw deeper in this fort of tranfgrcfli—

H+ em

cm, and do approach to fudas his treacherie. 2. Morcfpecial-

ly, thele a v e the wages and reward ot the defpera e enemies of

Chrift, and theGofpel, and Chrifts fervants; Firft, all fore

of mifchicf mall come upon fuch a mans ownperfon from men,

and from devils, and from Judicatories, and from Heaven,

YVrath fhall be on him, in relation to his liberty, to his enter-

prife$,tonis .uitsofUw, and his exercife of Religion, till he be

cutoff from the world, and rooted from his place, v. 6, 7, 8.

Secondly, mifchiefftrllbeon his family, wife and children,

goods and eftate, whereof his children fhall have no benefit,

but be expofed to all mifery without pity, v. 9, to, n, 12.

Thirdly, mifchicf (hall be upon his posterity till they be rooted

out, whhinfamie to him of whom they came, being purfued

in wrath to the third and fourth generation, as the children ofc

him that hated God, till his fame and memory perifli, v. 13,

14,1?. and that fori his mercikfie perfectiting of the Lords

poor children, v. 16. Fourthly, the curfe of God, without hope

ofQods blefling, (hall purfue his gracelefie and curfeddifpoli-

tion ; to the vexation of his foul and body* and it (hall be fnft

ened on him op ill hands perpetually, v> 1 7> »• ?, 1 9* as the juft

reward of the deadly enemies of the Lord, and of the falvation

of his people, i>. 20, And this is letdown as a part ofaPfalme

of 7)Avid y to be fung unto Gods praife, and allowed and (aid

Amen unto, by all the people of God^ againftthe defperate and

unveccncileable enemies of Chrift, and of his true fervants,

whereby the Church of God may be edified and kept fall in

the faith and piofeffion of Chrift, and free from perfection of

bis faithful fervants,

Ver 21. But cb thou for mefi GODjhe Lord for thy Names fa^e \ beeaufe thy merej is good: deliver thou

22. For I am poore and need] : and my heart if wounded within me.

21. 1 am gone like the fiadow when it declineth: 1 am toffedup and down as the locujl.

24. My \nees are weak through fa fling : and my pfhf'ailetb of fatnejfe.

25. I became alfo a reproach unto tlpem ;

when they looted upon mz x thej /baked their

heads. i

The third part of the Pfalme, wherein the perfecured Saint

!>utteth up prayer unto Go4 for comfort to himfcif, and for de-ivory, ufing Gindry reafons for ftrengthening of his faith^ to v. 26. where he repe teth his prayer, with other rea r ons to in-foceit. to v. 9. and saving tound comfort and victory, he clofeththe Pfalme with thankigiving, v. $0,31.

From his fi. ft prayer, and the reafon thereof 5 £ Mr h ; i .Whatsoever mifchief be appointed for the enemies of God, and of his Son Jefus < .h ift, it (hall not prejudice the godly peifecuted, nor hinder rhet accefle unto God, or o<s befriending of them, for fo teacheth the Pfalmift ; But do tbou for me, 0 God, the Lord 2. It concerneth God in his glo y, as to punifn his foes, fo to defend his friends and children: "Do tbou for me for thy Names fake, g. The plea of the believer is not his own good-* nefs, but the re,<dincfs of Gods mercy unto Supplicants, Becaufe thymercj U good, deliver tbou me 4. Becaufe God is good and merciful, therefore he will not fufte his own to pe-rifh in their rffliction; Becaufe thy mercy is good, deliver tbou me. 5. Before the Lord do comfort his children in their affliction, he hringeth them to the fenfe oi their own inefficiency, and of their need of his help, and when this poverty of fpirit is given, it is a fore runner of delivery; Deliver tbou me* fori am poor and needy. 6. As the Lord by affliction doih waken the fenfe of fin, 3nd wound the mans fpirit, fo is he a ready Phy-fician to the contrite ; Deliver tboumc y for my heart is woundel within me. 7. This mortal life is like a fhadow, and when affliction is fuperadded to mortality, mans life is like the fhadow of the evening,which is fpeedily ftretched forth til it vanifhjand when a Saint is in this condition, he may e*pc& the fruit of Gods compaffion,as here, Deliver mejor I am gone Ufa a fhaiow wbcvitdcclinetb. 8. The children of God muft not look for any certain dwelling place, but to be driven to and fro by persecution, as thewindemaketh thelocuil to leap from place t» place j I amtoffed up and down as the locuft. 9. The grief of the godly under perfecution may overcome the natural comfort of meat and drink, and bring their body to willing leanneffe; My knees are wca\ through fajtingi and my ficjh failctl? of fat-

neffe

neffe. 10. As it is ufual for the wicked to mock the godly, being brought low by perfecution: fo there is no parr of the croffc more heavie to the godly then derifion ; 1 becamealfoareproacb unto them when they looked upon m$. 11. That which jod doth threaten for a curfe on the wicked, may for the point of outward calamity fall upon the dearcft children of j>od> as what is threatened, Deut. 28, infundry things, is here found on the perfecuted childe of Godj I became a reproach unto tbem> the) jha\ed their beads.

Verf. 26. Help me, 0 LORD my God 1 O fave me according to thy mercy.

27. That they may knoxt that this is thy band : that thou, LOKD y haft done it,

28. Let them curfe\ but bleffe thou : Vvhen they mfe % let them be ajhamed^ but let thy fervant re-Joyce,

29. Let mine adverfaries be clothed with frame : and let them cover themfelves with their own confufton as with a mantle.

He prayeth again for help, and addeth more reafons, cfpecially thisreaibn, that fo the difference of Gods dealing with his fer-vants, and with his foes may the better appear $ Whence learn y 1. As trouble is lengthened and lyeth on, io mufl prayer be repeated and in^fted upon, nshe^e: Help me, O Lord my God, and fxve me According to thy mercy, 2. When the Lords children do perceive tint Gods honour is oblcured by their fuflering, they become no leife defirous to have God reftored to his ho-nouivhen ro hive themfelves delivered from trouble; Save me y that they may Iyiow that tbii is thy bind, th.it thon>LordJ)aft done it. $. Albeit the Lord be the infti&erof the troubles of the godly for their trial, and for manifeftation of his truth toward them, and grace in them, yet the world cannot perceive this, till God lift up the hand of his own out of trouble; Save mcjbat they may know that this U thy band^ and thax thou, Lord, baft dene it, 4. When God fheweth himfelf reconciled to a foul, light a-rifeth in trouble, to let item fee both their own relief, a,nd the

over-

overthrow of their advemries, as here is fliewen in the propo-(ition of the condition of the godly and their enemies. 5. Ic matters not what the enemie fpeak againft the godly, (o long as God approved them: yea, the more the enemie be defpiteful, tht more will the Lord be kinde to his fervants : Let them eurfe, but blcffc thou. 6.Whenthe contoverfie between the godly, and their perfecutorscoracth before the Lord to be judged, mame fhall cover the face of the perfecutor, and Gods childe fhall re-joyce; When they arifc> (to wit (or pleading of their caufe) let them be ajhamed, but let thy ft rvant re\oyce. 7.The pretences whereby the wicked deceive their own ccn'ciencesin perfecu-tingthc Saints, fliall be their fin, and theii fhame and condition; Let mine adverfaries be cloatbedwitbjbame, and let them jcovct tbcmfclvcs -with their own covfufion^ as with a mantle*

Ver. 30. / mil greatly praift the LOBfD with my mouth; yea, 1 mil praife him among the multitude,

31. For he Jball (land at the right hand of the poore: to fave him from thofe that coudtmne his foule.

Heclofethhis prayer and the Pfalme comfortably. Whence learn, 1. Albeit the pcrfecutcd children of God be put to mourning and prayer for a time, yet the ifl'ue of their exercife jftttH be joy and praife •> For I mil greatly praife , faith the Supplicant here. 1 . It is not unufual to God to make the delivery of his children manifeft before the people, who were witnefles of their hard ufage by the wicked, and to make his fervants tp proclaim his praife with their own mouth 5 I vill grcjtly ruife the 1 ord with my mouth, yea, I will praife him among the multitude* 3.AsSatan/L/.6.flialftand at the right hand of thePerfccutn t ,both to drive him on to perdition in his fin, and then to accufe him & tormen- him for it, fo (hill the Lord fiand ac the right hand of his perfecuted fervants in their low. k ft condition^ to itrengthen them under their trouble, and to deliver them our of it; For he Jhall fiand at the right hand of the poor, to fave him from them „ that condemn bk foul. 4. Albeit the experience of the promifei delivery be not yctconre, yctthcforefightofitby faith in Cods.

Word,

Word, and gracious nature, is fufficient caufeof joy to the perfected Saint, and matter of praife unto God $ I will greatly praife the Lord with my mouth } for bejhi'/jtand at the right band *f tbepoor to favc kim*

PSALME CX.

THisPialmecontaineth the doArine of Chrift s Goi and man in one perfon,concerning his eveilafting Kingdom and Priefthood , whofe Kingdom albeit begun to be manifefted a-mong the Jcwes, yetwas tobeextendeduntothe Gentiles with great fuccefs,v. 1,1,3 As for his Priefthood,he is fetledtherinfor ever by an Oath, v.4.and that with the overthrow of his enemies, how great or many foever, v. 5>6. yet not without Chrifts luf* fcrings, by which he was firft to be humbled, and then to be exalted, v. 7.

Ver. 1. ^ He LORD fuidnntomj Lord, Sit X tbottat my right hand: until I Mike thine enemies thjfootfiooL

In the fivft place, the Prophet being taught of God, defcribes the Perfonof Chrift, in both his Nature?, and in his Kingly office, which he exercifeth in heaven from the beginning of the world to the end thereof, until all his enemies (hall be de-ilroyed. Wbmt learn, 1. Albeit the understanding of Chrifts perfon and offices be neceffory unto the Church, yet none know the Son lave the Father, and they to whom he will reveal him; for David knew Chrift only by the Fathers teaching ; The Lord faidy faith he. 1. Chrift is Davids Son, and "Davids Lord alio: Davids Son, in regard Chrift affumed his humane nature of Davids feed , and Davids Lord, becaufe he is God, very God and very man in one perfon 5 The Lord [aid to my Lord> that is, Go'\ the Father revealed to me concerning God the Son, my Lord 3nd Redeemer. 3. Chrift iu his Kingly office is exalted to

the

PSALMECX. 109

the fellowship of glory and power with the Father, authorized by him in his Kingdome, and eftablifhed therein by divine decree: The Lord (aid to my Lord. 4. Chrift fince the beginning cf the world hath had, and to the end of the world (hall have enemies to his Kingdome, who (hall fight againft him, but he fhall prevaile over them compleatly and glorioufly, to their {name and confufion : Sit thou at my right band, until Intake thine enemies thy footjiooL ?. No lefle then divine power is able tofubduejhe enemies of Chrifts Kingdomej for devils and wicked men, fin, death and hell are oppofite to his throne; Sit there until I mx\e thine enemies thy feotftooL 6. Albeit this victory is not fully obtained, till the end of the world, becaufc oftherenewingof the battel by new instruments, from generation to generation, yet till then and for ever Chrift the King enjoyeth his glory in heaven, and firteth judging and ruling powerfully nil things for the good of his \ Church 3 Sit thou at my right band, until J make thine enemies thy foot ft. ol.

. Ver. 2. 7be LORD fhallfend the rod'of thy jlrength out of Zion ; rule thon in the midjl of thine enemas.

In the fecond plac: he fheweththe meanes and manner of his Ccnqueft and governing.to wit, by the preaching the Gofpel. Whence learu, 1« Chri ft wantcth not a rod and fcepter whereby' to goyern^bur he h.nh the Word of God preached for the Enfigiv of his Princely power and preheminencie 3 which is the arme and power of God unto lalvation to every c ne that believed '. and which is able to throw down every ftrong hold exaltedagainft the knowledge of himi This is therod of thy Jlrength. 2 .Chrift was King in his Church, and was in exercife of his office before his Incarnation, and that by his Word preached, which is the rod of his mouth, J fa. 11.4 For he fhall fend the rod of thy ftrength out of Zion, prefuppofeih the rod of his ftrength in Sion. 3 Jt, was decreed, rhat Chrifts Kingdome, hevrfoever firft and meft clearly manifefted among the Jcwes, yet ihould not be limited within Judca, but ihould go forth unto the Genti es for fubdu-ing them* The Lord fhall fend the rod of thy ftrength out 0/ Zion. 4. How many enemies foever (hili oppofc the Ktngdomeof Chrift, and hew powerful lecyer they ihall be, ye: Chrift fhall

fc*ar

no PSALME CX.

bear rule, enjoy his Kingdcme, maintainehis fubje&s, and go-\ his Conqucfts * Rule thou in the mid ft of thm'enemies.

on in

Vci;. 3* Thy people ftxzWbt willing in the iky of thy porter , in the beauties ofho/inejfe from the wombe of the mowing : thou hafi the dew of 'thyyouth.

In the third place he flieweth what fucceffe Chi ift fhall have} for he fhall have abundance of Converts, who fhall come to his Church offering themlelves, as the free-will-offerings were brought to the beaUtlml holy Temple^ and that in fuch mulci -tudes and Continence, as his young Converts fhall be innumerable, like the dew upon the grafle, which dewiffueth out as it were from the ^mornings wombe as its daily birth. Whence learn > i. Whatfoever courfe our Lord mail take, for inviting and compelling guefts to come to his feaft, and to the fociety of his vilible Church, yet only his Elect, his redeemed ones, all of them are made moft willing Converts by his Omnipotent power, effectually inclining their hearts, and making then* willing 3 Thy peop:e fiall be willing in the day of thy power* 2. Chrifts Church by the-adminiftration of holy Ordinances, by the letting forth of the Lords holinefle, by her teaching and perfwading effectually unto the duties of holinefle, is exceeding beautiful in the eyes of God, and of fpiricual beholders 5 Thy people flmll be willing in the beauty of bolineJfe.^.Txut.^ Converts by the power oi theGofpel are Chrifts children and'" off-fpring, who mall grow up before him in (implicity and -harmlefneffe, as the youth in each generation do grow, and fhall be for multitude as the ftarres of Heaven, as thefandon the fea-fhore: or as the morning dew defcending from the Heaven: From the wombe of the mwving, thou bxft the dew of tbyyouth.

V€M* The LORD hath f&orne, and will not res fent^ thou art aPrieft for ever, after the order of Mel-chizedecb.

In the fourth place; h his Priefthood fetled, fPbcnce fettofc

X.Ghri£ „

I, Chrift as he is King of his Church, foheis Pdeftalfo, for tfte teajj^jteg of Gods will to his fubje&s, for reconciling them ro God by his propitiatory facrifice, for fanctifying them, for making their fervices acceptable, for bearing the iniquity oi: iheir holy things, for interceding alwayes for them, and bleffing them effectually in the N ;me of the Lord : Thou art a Ttrieft > faith the Lord unto our Lord. 2.Chrift is an everlafting Prieft, who liveth for ever to make interceffion for us, and neither need-eth nor can admit any fucceflor, or fuffragan to himfelf in his office; Thou an a Prieft for ever. $. Chrift in his office is no Ufurper, for he is called to it, his Priefthood is unchangeable, confirmed by an Oath, having the glory of Gci laid in pawne for its {"lability and continuation without change: The Lord bathf orn>and will not repent) thou art a Frieflfor cver.$.Airou$ order was net confirmed by an oath, but was an imperfect type: of Chrifts Priefthood ,to endure only till the Lord came,till the time of Reformation came,and was to be changed at Chrifts coming; for feeing a change behoved to be made o^'the Priefthood a change behoved alfo to be made of the Levitical law ; Tlmi art a Tricjlfor ever, (not after the order oitAaron^ but) after ike trier of '&&ckhi\edecb. 5. Mekhi\cdechs order, was not the pntterne, but a type and fhadowing rcfemblance of Cbiifts Priefthhood : for as Melchi\edech in his Scriprural being is mentioned and brought in, withouc (hewing who was his fathei or mother, and had both the offices of King and Prieft joyned in his perfon, and was firft King of righteoufneffe, and then King of peace 5 as is more largely defcribed by the Apnftle in his E-piftle to theHcbrcrvcs: fo is Chrift really without beginning and ending, both King and Prieft, who bringethpeifed righ-teoufnefle and peace to his fubjects $ Thou art a Trieftfor ever, aftc r the order of. Mekbi\edeeh.

Ver. $.Tbc Lord at thy right hand fh*& ftribfi through Kings in the day of his wrath.

6. He Jhall judge among the heathen, he Jhall Jilt the places mthtlie dead bodies: be Jhall wound the heads over many auntrejs,

In the fifth place is fct down the vifioiy cf Chrift o*ef

his

. ii2 PSALME CX.

his enemie. Whence learn, i. Chrift the Media-tour, ami King of hrs Church, and every believer in him, Jiave Gad ready at hand in all that they have to do ; for as Chrift is at the right hand of the Father for glory, fo the Father is at Chrifts right hand for cccpe«ation and afliftance : The Lord at thy right hand, faith he. 2. As the Kings <md Rulers of the earth are u-fually great enemies to Chrifts Kingdoms fo he is the hardeft party that ever they (hail meet with : The Lord at thy right bund fliallftrike through Things. $ 'The Lord hath a time of patience wherein he beareth with his enemies, and a day of wrath when he will break forth againft his adverfaries: He flail ftrike through fyugs in the day of bi* -wrath. 4. Chrifts Government is wile and juft, convincing fome of (in, and pordoning the penitent; convincing others of fin, and fcalingthcm up to condemnation, calling down the proud, and comforting the caft down, and doing all things for the good of the fubjecls meft dif-creetly 5 He flail judge among the heathen. 5. Wee there never fo many enemies to Chrift , they are all dend men before him, whom he wiii kill, and will caft their carcafes in the ditches of their own campes $ He pall fill the places with dead bodies. 6. As he will punifh the multitudes of people, who under wicked Commanders do oppofe his Kin^dome: fo will he in fpecial fuinifti wicked Rulers, that lead on their people againft him, how many foeverthey be who are joyned in confpiracy$ He Jhall wound the heads over many countrcys.

Ver. 7. Befall drinl^of the broot^ in the Wajf 2 therefore Jhull he lift up the head.

In the laft place is fet down the manner of Chrifts carrying rii his Kingdome and Priefthood in his Church, to wit, by fuftering and enderlng hardfhip, as a good fouldier purfuing the victory: for which his humiliation it is promifed he fhall be exalted. Whence learn, 1, It behoved Chrift firft to fiifter, and then enter into glory ; He flail drink of tk brook in the way ; or, he mail partake of the waters of affliction. 1. Whatfoever a good■ fouldier doth, or fuffereth in his warfare againft, and in purfuit of his enemies, Chrift did and fuffered in purfuing his enemies in his own perfon, and ttiall do and fuft'er in his myfti-calbodys He Ml drink of the brook, that is, content himfclf

With

PSALMECxr. n*

with my obvious entertainment, which hemeetethwith intht chafe of his enemies! and not be retarded with my care of beu tcr fare, then what may further hit (uvpoie. 3* As Chriftg perfonal fu#ering£ were not to endure any longer then the time he was on his way to hi* glory, (b neither arc the fufferings of his fouiciiei's or his Church militant, his myftical body, to endure any longer then they art in their way to the triumph, ifcu is, during thisfliort life; He Jhatt drink of the broo^in the *ay. 4. As C hiift in his perfon was exalted after his fuffcr-ing? asVi&or, and did enter into his glory: fo 'hall he exalt ct try member of his my ft ical bo't y after their (ufiering, and ii ft •p their head: fa. it is appointed even for them, through ma* ny jffttftions to enter into glory * Then fore fatl be lift up

PSALME CXI.

THc fcopeof this Pfalme is to flirty* alt topiaifcGod* and that for fo many reafons as there are verfes in the Pfalme. The exhortation is in the fiift words: Prrife yt the L$rd. The reafons follow in order. The Pfalme iscompofed fo after the order of the Hebrew Alphabet, as every fen tence or iulf verfe beginnerb with a fevera! letter of the AB Q in order, and all the Pfalme is of praife only* Whence we learn in general, 1.Sometime it is expedient to let all other things apart* and employ our fclves expreflfcly to proclaim thepraifcsot the Lord only-, for fois done in this Pfalme. x. The praifesof the Lord arc able to fill all the letters, and words compofed of letters, in all their poflible junctures or compofition* for fo much doth the going through all the letters of the ABC point out »nto us. he is A If hi and Omgi % and all the middle letters of the A B £ of praife. $. The praifes of the Lord are worthy tob« kept in memory: for that this Pfalme may bethebctterrem^m-bred, it is compofed after the order •( the A B C, and fo it in* finuatcth thus much to us.

V*,

*

Ver I. T^Raife ye the LORT> : 7 mil praife JL the LORD with toy vokole heart in the tsfffemblj of the Uf right ^ and in the CongregAtion*

H« fettcih dowfnhefcopc of the Pfalme ina word of exhortation to paifethcLovd, and then annexeth ten rea.ons and motives thereunto. The firft motive is from his own examples lyljevcclarn, i.When we are about any part of divine worlhip. it (hall be to good purpofe to let our eye mainly upon thfeicope which we propound to our felves therein: for to with lefle wavering of thoughts, and more fixed pretence of minde, we fhail follow our purpofe;' Thus much doth the Pfalmifts example here teach us, fetting dov;naU he putppfcthto aime at in this word , Praife ye the LorM. z\ The tailor of ? the Congregation, being about to ftir up others to this, or any other fpiritual duty,(hould go before them in his own example, andftir up him-felf*for that fame end: for fo teachcth the Pfalmift, faying, J trillfraifc tbcLotd. 3. As the Lord is worthy of hearty prju-fts}lo mould we with o*ur-heart take up the Sdng^and bear out the wcifcjr w t U praife the Lord with my whole heart, 4.Sclemn meet* Ings of Gods children for Gods publick worfhip, and furthering one another therein, is an Ordinance ofGod appointed for that end: Iwittfraife inthe Afi'emvly^nkintbe QongngArim^.hlbtit the true members of the Church invifible, be only they who are juftified, and who are regenerate, and who are Students of f^ncTity and right^oufneffe 5 and albeit fuch only are fttteft hearers, ^lifcerners^nd joyners in the Lords worihip» yet muft the whole Congregation, or vifible members of the Church,what-focver they be before God, be admitted to the feliowlhip of hearing Godpr a: fed 5 for thereby the ele<2: unconverted may be regenerate,- for when the Pfalmift hath faid, I will praife the Lcri in theAjfembly of the upright, he fubjoyneth alio, and in the Qongngaiwu'■

Ver. 2. The works of the LORD are great, fought tiki of all them that have Pteafure therein*

The

the greatnefs and excellency of Gods works. Wbcnee learn, . i. We need nor to far to feek matter for prilling theTicrd/ his works are at our hand ro turnifh mattei \ and albeit the Lords w%rks in. cornparifon. one with another, be Icrhe of *hern greater, fome of them k Her, yet all aiiidsvery cnejol them being lookedaiponTeverstfy^re greats Ti?$. pwh of the.-Lord are great- i.Whatfttfver glory doth appear gtf v. oris wmkisvhere ismore-hki. trcaCueaiid excellency therein cpbe : fought out, aiuhif.taercrdonot (ktmu.h in Gods, works p lz B bec#u(> jthiy doiabt feek chem om ; The worlds of tbs \Lori. Arc great.ipouzfo out of jail them, &c. ^.Itisamaik.oY a wi-.e chiLic.o-Gjito take pleasure in Gods work, and totake.pleafuie to fearch and fee GouspraiLetherfiin, :nd chefeoaiyfreta reap ttjcrighi^tfeand bbriefit.thereof :j iTl&;&t \fought <Mt;df>aU(tterathat \kx&\flM~ (wc therein. 'oV.- ,

Ver.3. HU work is honourable and gloriom : and hii

xW\ third renfon orpraiTe, is the glory andnorfour'of Cod to be feen in his works. Whence lean, . Tht ^lory of'Go'ds wifdome, power, juftice or mercy, or feme of his attributes, is ^^-upgnjJ^vK^ks of < .Tea-Jutland P^vLic,g$ akd>hcy hav^, an dper.-eye to look u

^upoarherpiightlyj £n:vv

r . His Tp,or\is -bQUcurzulc .md glorious. ... \%h.. ija-yes of God^i^m, ..pov'vvr> goodrtflft* .01a,, Pl8^iv*d in his-wVi-k, they car;, God, and,of his work 3K0 ; and ^pigb$ eili;; cannot be attained; till his glpi y bc'feeij hi it 3 ty

Gods children alto, do often mifcoflftrue che ^ 2 d

dealing with themfelvcs and with others>yet there is

therein, there was never any wrong, nor ever fhali there be i"

SWte l v# ?mti iraiiilkeiiV^d^liBgi Ru r&btsflfpefft cniar.etb for ever? ** v ,

mil *:$% fwtt %4 U

11J -Ver. 4* He hath mad? his wonderfat works to he

frmtmbrU'* th$ LORD iogradorn, mmJ f*i!gf $$m

pa/pom

The fourth motive copnifeGod, iathecourfe hetaketh to make his works to be remcmbred, mixing mercy and companion in all his providence cowards men, andfpeeially has own people* Whence turn, i. What the Lord bath done for his Church, ht hath ordained that it (hould beremembred ; and this he pro-cur cth, partly by priming upon his works the large impreflion of his power and goodntflej partly by doing the like works when the Church ftandeth in need thereof * and partly by his Ordinances, commanding them to beremembred § He bitb mdebb wonderful works to be remmbreL a. As the grace and lovinc pity of God towards his Church, is theciuieof the wonderful working of God for his Church: fo are they ftrong motives to caufc his works to be remembrcd unto his praife $ for tbc Lord igriciom ini full of iomfAffUn % doth bere infer fo much.

Vcr. 5, H$ hsth given w*a% »nt$ tbem ihdi

fear* him, hi will iVit hi mniful $f bit Cow*

The fifth motirt to praife God,is,beeaufe God according 19 his Covenant provideth for the necefiities of his people* Whence learn t 1. The Lord in all aees h3tb carefully furniihed maintenance for the life, both bodily and fpiritual of his own people 5 He bitb given meat to tbem thit fegre bim. a. As what good the Lord doth unto his people, is becaufe of his Covenant with them, fo what is to be don- for them, he will do for his Covenants fake alfo without being wearied; He wil ever be mini* fulofbis Coven&u

Ver. 6. Ht hath Jb**ti hk people thi powsr of hti Vrorkj: tbdt hi may govt them the hirittgt

of the heathen.

The (ixrh motirt to Cods pwfi i*>the proof which be gave of

bit

his power for, and good-will Co this people, ia bringing them out of Egypt and onto C**&xnWb€n$e Utrn> i .The Lords woi k-Ing wonderfully ?iid extraordinarily for his people, were it hue once and at one time, as It is a fufficient reafon of praifing hina ordinarily at all times thereafter, lb it is a fufficicnt prop to the frith of his people at ail times ; for this ufe arc we taught to make of the Lords wot king for his people, in giving tbtm tbebetiuge $f tbe hejtben. u As the Lords working for his people at one time, giveth evidence of what he can do for them at any time. fo will he have his own people in fpecial fpcSarors, obfervers and wltnefles of his working at any time, that they may make ufe thereof at all times; Hehitb jbrwedbis pcoptc tbe power of bk »"('» tbit btmqgh*tbemtbebcriugeofihthwb*t»

Vcr. 7. Tin m$rh if ki$ minis ire verity 4mA j*Jg*mHut : sit hit C*mm*nim*nt$ an fur*.

£ Tkf}fts*ilf*fcf*r*9frs*4**tr: tod srt i**f in truth snkmprigktntjfi.

/ Thefcremh and eighth motives to Gddspraife, is thefuit-aMenefs of his Work unto his Word, and the ftkoility of his Word and Works in truth and uprightnefs. Whence Uir*> i. The works of the Lord done for his Church , and in his Church to his people for their corre&ionor comfort, and a-gainft their enemies for their overthrow, do prove the Lord to fie true and faithful in his proxnifes and threatening*: The wor(* *f the Lord ire verity and judgement* ** As the Words and working of the Lord agree together, fo ftiould they be efteemed of, acknowledged and commended by us: Tbe worlds of tb* Lord are verity and judgement. 3. The whole Word of God, all which he hath commanded us toobferve and make ufe of, is worthy of all commendation and of perpetual ufe; for all the

Carts of it do agree one with another, fuitablc to the condition of is people in all ages, good and profitable to them: it is dear an4 plain, and not ambiguous, when it is rightly considered and compared with it fclf.- for even the ceremonial law, albeit abolished, for the outward obfervation of the carnal cei emonie, which figured forth Chrift to come, yetendureth forever in the real Significationotfubftancej benefirsand duties thereby fiudowed I $ forth?

fortli: arid thetaVcfraUaw ,• howio^eh itferveth to condentnfc, men for their fins; yet it is alfo a pedagogic to draw and* drrrv^ c<jridemired« men tofcek'i : ;h r eoufnefleand life in Cnrift, avA w\fr&&i& believer along i his hahdftorheaven ; Ml hhCam* mandmntsarefure, thejtj&tiidfaft for cvti and ever, m&toeMno in truthanduprigbiMJfe. -

■ I

Vei\ p. He-fint redemption unto his people : he hath tmmnufcd his GWinwitfor ever*, holy ttnd rekieffnjl u httName.

*. ?

The ninth motive to Cjodspraiie, is the courle which he "hath taken for mans falvnion, and for his divine honour. Whence learn, i. The Lord hath made redemption ready for men, and fefch giveh*foM*a e&fti^ffrdn for tiMArrg offer of ft, ami"for applying it jx>:t-he benefit of.:tbeMiweO fit few rahmfmn to kkjgople. 2. Whoibever do receive rbe-rneffage o\' Redemption fent unto them, Gocl is entered with them in an eveilafting and unchangeable Covenant, for gfacW and ialvaridn unto them: he hath commanded his Covenant for ever. 3. Wherein foever God hathengage<khQ}tel[ by Covenant, we muft not* (j^fftft him .to be ot{ia^ayo$ minded .then he hath fpeken , but muft in far handt^ai:• fubicribc to his declaration', left we (tfoifeisfc Name im vain: For holy J and nvewd # kit Name-

Ver. 1.0. The feare of the LORD is the begin* rang ofwifdomez a good -tmderftanding have all they that do f\k Commandments, htspraijetndnretb forever.

The tenth motive to praife God is, from the fruit of believing fcnd obeying him«| \Nhence learn. . l. As it i^ true wiidorne to inpw the Lo.xls will, and to obferve it: fo then do : mea be* .gin to give pi oof of wifdom in them, when they begjn : tojmake confeience o> the obedience of faith, and to ftand in awe to mif-believe Gods Word, or dilbbey his commands; Far, thefeare of the Lord is the beginning of wifdom. 1. Howfoever the wicked

who

who follow their own cotinfel, may feem wife to world* lings, and the Lords children to be fimple and witlefTe, yet in dffcct, themanthat ftudieth conftantly unto the obedience of faith,is the only wife man; eAgood under ft anding have alltbcy that do his Commandments, j. Albeit many do neglect to praife God, yet he fhall not want praife : for the matter of his praife fhall endure, and he (hall provide fuch as mail praife him, from generation to generation^ and for evermore 5 His praife en* dureth for ever-

PSALM CXII.

Vcr. I. T)R*fe V the L0RCD , *BltJfed is JL the man that feareth the LO R D: that delighteth greatly in bis Command' tnents.

"THis Pfalme is apraifingof God for bleffing of thebdeevers, and the whole Pfalme doth prove that the beleever is bleffed., which Propo/ition is fet down, v* 1. and confirmed with fo many reafons as there are veries following. Whence learn, 1. Albeit infingingof fome certain Pfalm or part thereof, there be nothing directly fpoken of the Lord, or to the Lord, yet he is prai-fed when his truth is our fong, or when his works and doctrine is our fong, as here it is md}Praife ye the Lord. And thereafter the blefledneis of the believer taketh up all the Pialme. 2. It is the Lords praife, that his fervants are the only blcfled people in the world; 'Praijcyc the Lord: why? becaufe, Blejfedis the man tint feareth the Lord. 3. He is not the bleffed man fwho is moit ob'ervant to catch all opportunities to have pleafure, profit and worldly preferment, and careth not how he cometh by.them; but be is the bleiTei man, who iv mr ft obfervant of Gods will, and careful to follow it * Bleffed is the man that feareth the Lord. 4. As there is matter of great ueii^ht and contentment in .Gods Word, unto all them whofeare God; fo the true mark of afouiid believer and fearer of God, is delighting to know, beleeve and

no PSALME CXII,

obey Gods Word, for fo he defcribeth the man thit fcarcth Goi: Hr dcligbtttb greatly in bit Commandments.

Ver. 2. HufeedfhxR be mighty upon earth: the mineratton of the upright [hall be blef[ed s

The firft proof of the believers blcflcdnefle, isthebleffingof his children* (if God (hall fee it good to give him ions and daughters of his body ,) or .he blefline of thofe that do by his teaching and example follow the footfteps of his faith and obedience. iVbetitc learn, \ Albeit we are bound toferveGod* whether he give unto us benefits or not; albeit our fervice at the beft be but a very weak endeavour, and many wayes tainted: and albeit we be unprofitable fervants, prefuppofing we could ioferve, as we ihould give perfect obedience, and do all that is commanded; yet it pleafeth God to allure us unto his fervice, by propounding rewards and encouragements unto us, as in this PtV me we fee. 2.Thebeft way to bring a blefiing on our children and poftcrity, is to feareGod, by our inftru&i* on and example to teach them to follow us in the Lords fear $ for their feed fhal be mizbty upon earth , even Kings and Pr iefts unto God, whatsoever mall be their worldly portion, j. Albeit few do believe, yet i$ it true, that upright dealing hath better fruits then wittie projecting and cunning catching: The generation of the upright Jhall be bleffed.

Ver. 3 Wealth and rich J (hall be i» bit houjt: and his rightcwfncffe endureth for ever.

The fecond proof of the believers felicity, is the blefling of him in his outward eftate. Whence learn y i. Whether God fhali give more or lefletothe upright man, one way or other it (hall be more ufeful to him then all the wealth of the wicked can be to themilVealth and richesfhal bein his houfe 2.Be ides the temporal commodiry and fruits in this*life of the believers righteous carriage gracious rewards are laid up for him in another life for ever; His rigbteoufneffe endurcth for ever,

Vcr.

Vet. 4. Vnto the upright then arifttb lighi hm tliidarkntffi : be is gratia* and full $fc*mpaj[ic* % and righteous.

The third proof of the believers blcffedneflc, is comfort in all troubles, ind a deliverance out of all difficulties, as the fruit o£ Gods grace enduring in him* iVbencc torn, 1. Albeit the Lord will not exempt the believer fromdukpaflagesof his pro-ridence, or from amiAion and perplexity, yet he will make hint fure of comfort, direction, and a good event % Unto the upright there irifetb light in iar^ntffc. x.The light and comfort which isbeftowed upon the upright, is the fruit of Gods erace towari him, and of the junfturc of laving graces in him : for the ward* may be extended both to God, and to the believer by Gods do* nation; Heugracjou and full of compifjiov, and right com; which is true of the believer in fome degree, and of God it is true,abfolutcly and infinitely*

Vcr. 5. A ge$d man fbe^eth favour and lendethi he mil guide his affaires with difcretiou,

A fourth proof of the believers blefTedneffe is, from his proper-tics or fruitfulnefs of his faith, in the works of juftice and mercy, difpenfed with difcrction. Whence lexrn, 1. The believer to whom God hath extended favour and kindnefs, will be good to them among whom he livcth, and by the fruits of equity, love, kindneffe and mercy, will give evidence of Gods grace dwelling in him : for here the believer is called, 4 good mtttjKhs Jbereethmcrejf 9 anllendeth. z. $race and godlinefie, found and fruitful faith, do not make men to become fooles without di ."action, but do confift well with prudence and discretion, in or-dering their aftiires wifely, and doteachthem to give, when, what, and to whom they iftould give, as the circumihnces ot time, and place, and'perfon, need of the par tie, and their own ability do require; He will gride bis tffuires with Hi

ere ion*

Ver. <?♦ Surely he /bill not be moved for e* ver : the righteous /hall be in everlafiing remembrance*

A fifth proof of thebeleevers bleflednefle, is the promifeof his liability in grace, and eftimation with God for ever. Whence learn, i.No man fhall ferve God for noughtjthe grace befto-ved upon him making him to abound in well-doing fhall be followed with more grace, rewarding and crowning grace in him, andinfpedalhemallbefetled intheftate of grace, what-foever temporal changes of inward or outward condition he may fuffer; Surety he Jhall not be moved for ever. 2. Albeit the world may mifregard the believer, and traduce him while he li-veth, and calumniate him when he is dead, yet his memory mail remain frefh and fragrant before God, Angels and good men who know him: The righteous Jhall be in ever la/ting remembrance.

Ver. 7. He [hall not be afraid of evil ty din gs\ hid heart u fixed, trufiing in the LOK'I).

Afixthproofof the beleevers bleflednefle, is from the peace of -God guarding his heart againft the fear of evil. Whence learn, 1 Albeit the believer wanteth not his own infirmities and fcares, yet he is not overcome of fear, as the wicked or incredulous are 5' He /hall not be afraid of evil ty dings. 2. The guard of the godly mans heart, is not confidence in his owne wifdom or ftrength 3 natural courage or any earthly thing, but that which fedeth him is faith in God: His heart isfxcd i truji-iugin the Lord.

Ver. 8, HU heart is eflablifbed, he fhall not be a-fraid, until he fee his defire upon his enemies.

The feven'h proof of the believers bleffednefs, is his fecuriry from his enemies. Whence lcarn> 1. Albeit the bcleever be not exempted from having enemies j yea, and thofc mighty and

terrible*

tfc*riblft*;andfocbaswill beiftudyjng a mifchief igainft him> at*l breathing, out terrour^ yet .tarJiiraCrod wiU^gua ti ^freart fo 3 thwbefhailiioHjbemovedfrofir the courfc of Go.s obedience foralf tHautheencmy candtf.$ Bis heart is efLabli( 1 :cd 1 .ba jbalfaw be afrtid. i. The light of Gc*ss Worddoth(hewunt<> the believer both his own delivery, and the ovcrtJuowot h*s enemies, which it he do not fee in full tffe& in his own time, yet he (hall forefee it in the predictions of Gods Word: H€ jhatt not beajrdiX>until bc[ce his defire upon bis enemies.

riiy I

Ver. 9, Fie hath cii(perfed, he hath given to the poor: his rightsoufpeffeendureth for ever : hi) home fball

his right$oufxe$e endureth for be exalted x*iih honour.

The eighth, proof of the believers blefiedn^ is from his conftant courfe in fruitful reft q£ faiih, and from the fruits thereof. Whe-mt Item, i. The wotks of roercie to the diftrcfled,ar« a fpecial fruit and commendation of thefaitho the beleever: He hath difperfed, be hath given to the poorc. 2. The beleever io giveth as he may be (till ab f e to give to manyjHe bath difperfed. 3. As the.beleevers-righ-.tei/ufne sbyjuftification, fo his endeavour tobe righteous in .the effect of fancTintatlonV is not by fits, but confHnt and permanent; Hit rigbtctujnejfe endurcth forever. 4.Albeit the righieous-may have theirreputation blaft-cd among men, yet God in due time (hall make tiem honourable : His borne fbatl be exalted with honour..

Ver* 10. The wicked /hallfee it, and be grieved* he /hall gnaJhWtthhis teeth x andmelt arvaj : the dejire

of the nicked jhall perifh*

1

. Thelaft proof of the Me fled nefs of the beleever is, that his cne-roies (hall envie his happinefie, when they (ha.ll'fee the godly in gor-dcafcj andthemfelves miferable, Wlcn<;elenm^ f.ScnVe* time, errii in this life the Lord io exahe?h the beleever, as his enemies are made witneflcs thereof to their griet; md however, yet at length at the great day they (hall fee the believers joy dearly, to theincreafe of their own forrcw 1 The wnlicd Pra!■' fee />, md be grieved. t % Themore-the wicked do tnvie che'gocv- o! rhe

godly.

jodly, the axttt miferable doth he make himfelf .• Me jkitl fujb with^istutb «i mltewy. i . As the fceming good which cot wicked doth, ftiall be confamed and vanirtij fo the good which he hoped and defired to have, (hall never come to be enjoyed by him, but (ball vanifli: H< Jkitl mlt an?, tbtdtfnofmwiekr tijhiUptriJb.

PSALME CXilf.

*|*Hi$ alfo la a Pfalme of praife, wherein firft, the Fropofitioa, that God is to be praifed by all 3 is fct down, V.i, a,}. lit the next place are the reafons taken from his incomparable ma* jelly, v.43f« In the third place, arc the reafons of his praife taken from his bountie towards men* in railing the afflicted unto an honourable condttionj 9,6, 7, f. and enlarging of defo« late families, v. 9,

Ver. t. T)Raifeje the LORD, Prtife, Ojefor-i vants of the LORD : Praife the Name of the LORD.

2. Bleffed be the Name of the 10 RD,from thu time forth, and for evermore.

3. From the rifing of the Snnne $ ttnte the goimg ifhn of the fame ; the LO RDS Nam is to & prai fed.

From theexbortatlon to praife God, ttA declaration of h*s deferring to be praifed; Lame, t. As it is all mens duty to prai fit, the Lord, lb in fpecial it is the duty of his Minifters, and Officers of his houfes Firft, becaufe their office doth call for the difcharge of it publickly.Next,becaufe as they rtiould be the beft efteemersofthe reafons of his praifc,fo alfo ihould thev be the fitted inftruments to declare it. And laftly, becaufe the ungodly are deaf unto the exhortation, and dumb in the obedience of it % therefore when be hath faid > Praife je the Lord, he fub;oyneth t

ftfif*> O yt fervants of the Lord. 1. As the Lord w HI not U known, but as be declarcth himfeif in bis Word, fo he will not be praifed, five as he hath declared himfelf j I roifo tbe 7{mc of the Lord, j. The time ofthcexcrciJc^ofGodspratfc, and continuation of this fervke hath no terme fit unto it, but is co endure all our life, and for ever after * Bleffed be tbe Nttm cftH lord frm this time fifth and for evermore. 4. The praifc of the Lord is not robe confined unto any place, people or nation, but courfe Should be taken that u may be extended from one end of heaven to the other, from eaft to weft, on both hands, fouth tnd north; from the fifing of tbe Snnne unto tbe going down of ibefem, the Lords Hjmc is tobeprsifedi for every where there |s matter for it.

Ver.4- Tbe LORDiihighabeweaJl Nations: and bis glory shove tbe Hefvtus.

<> «Who\%UVt unto the LORD our Godf vke dwet-if lb on high.

In the reafont taken from tbe Lords Majefty; Lesr 9, 1, Gcd

muft be exalted above whatfoever excellency is to be fe ne ia Kings and Peopk in all the earth; for tboLord is high above ail Nations. a.Gcxl muft be exalted above whatfoever glory is to bcfccninthc Fabrick of Heaven, and more glory muft be gives to him then what all tbe creatures can cxprefle: for heaven and earth 3 and all things which he hath made, are but the eftcd of fome few words of the Lord 1 Hi glory is ibovt the Heavens. ) Of any, or of all things which we fee or hear of ,or can irot-

r there is no companion to be made with God, who hath fee throne above all the creatures; If bo is W& unto tbe Lord 9ir£ci, wbo dwollnb on bigb 1

Ver.6. Who hnmbloth himfelf to Mold the thing! thtt are in heaven t and in tbe earth.

7. He raifeth mp tbe peer em ef tbe daft : and liftetb tbo needy cm of tbe dmnghil.

8. That he may fet him with Princes: even with the Primes ef bis people*

9.Hemakotb tbe barren rroman to hfefhou{e\t*be njeyful mother ef children: Praifejetbe LORD.

I*

ft* RSiALMEKIXJIIv

In; the ttftfbnfc liked from khe jLordsgracioasfroviden^J/i the!revdatfaAo>fK-ingdaDicsanciiarnilies; Lcartie, i. As the; ckcclkrcy^ni'Majeity bSfioH is fc great, that in regard of hk own al-mffrckncy he might juftly delpilc thje excellency of Angels andimefl/ whereof he ftanoeeh fcft no need: fo the Lords ta-Bug any noticeof men orAngels, is apoi.t of humbling of faiimeliyit isapoint of love to irhe creature, making him ftoop fa low :as -toiladk toward them % For be, bimbleib him(df to behold the thingxMhatarexnfamcn, and in the emb. z. As the Lord; deciarett*him(df wonderiitUtt clae works .or" .-Great ion* fo alio in, thewo-'ks -of \Pirondenccy \*n xtianging the publj^k-afraires of Kin^domes, ftove and ttopusfyi© all .probability, .land expectation of men; He raifetb up the poor o a of the dujl 9 and : lifietb the needy out of ike &mi$il x <. Jfteferment unto high places Cometh nert?i?r from the c^frf^ft^ftom the weft;-but as Gdd oait-ethdown fome, io he raifeih other fome ,- thxpbem^fet'tbwi,

^ k Mrifa 'tto^^ fitful fif 9°^

way manifefted in Scripture, isicontrary to the couple of levelling., for he will have fome to be in a mean place, ahd-Tohie to*be-Prirfec^e^among his own PecplcjM :his*text ? flfeweth. J*How-foevei* the^brd benole^V'(!onfpicuous in hh throwing riewm of the mighty-, thenin iHWItifirfg of the poore" :-yet will he rather take'hispraife here from'his liTtirvg-up of tlie riefedy-and *poor*> A'enfrprryVheciftingdownofthe-mig'hty, that fo be may give corner 'arid hope to tfl^dtfjecled tha, depend upon fcim rHe lifmb'tbcneedy siittfKfedliv^riijbdbemxj fciibem with Pri** tes 6 ; .it "ie.no fimlL'benefit, ^ea 3 nt is-Aie greateft dignity in the v/nrld; to be advanced not in wrath, but in mercy, to tul* oj ver the Lord's people: for to 8bm God here c mnroend his bounty to the needy; Thalbe-maliesibem fit mtb'tb'e ! rinccs ofbM People. 7. All changes in mens fii milieu are -of £?od, nolefle *h«a the changes of St ue; He ma\tib tbc barre- woman to \cepe boufeC ^ it is tiie Special, V^fling of afajjiiide to incteajjfc in number: forthe Lords "poking the .barren faeare a number .of children, is here, made \he example ot ihemoft comfortable change of a'diflreffed \\on\i:'l^e.maketb thcbzrrcn tobe ajoyfol mother of children* ^.The very hearing 'what comfortableclfeh^ gesthe Lord<an make, and doth make theatfli&cd tofinde,3Ts a matter of refreshment to all, and of pi;aife to; Gcdfrom * Vraifej/ejIreJLord.

PSALME, CXIV.

THis PfalmisapraifingofGod, for the gracious and glorious? worke of delivering of his people out of Egypt , and bringing them into Canaan, and that for fix reafons. The firft whereof is, V: i. The next, v. 2. The third, v. 3 The fourth, v. 4, The fifth with the fpecial ufe thereof, v.?, 6,7. The fixth, v. 8,

Verf, 1. TX7 Uen IfraelVeentout of Egypt ^ and V V the.houfe of Jacob from a people of firangelanguage.

From the matter of praife here fpedfied; Lwrw, 1. The Lords moft glorious work done for his people, in fpecial the worjt of redemption, mould be ofreneft remembred,as.the mention-:na r king here and elfewheie of the time when Ifrael came out o/Egypt, flieweth. 2. Redemption is then beft efteemed of, when the miserable condition wherein we were, is called to mlnde, as here jfracls "Redemption is com'mended from the ftate they were in* in Egypt/ The boufe of Jacob went from a people of a ftrange IfflguigC' And this is the firft reafon of commending this work of God.

Verf. 2. JftJabwashu fantlnarj : and Ifrael hU dominion.

The next reafon oF commending this glorious work, is the joyning of delivered I frail in a near fellowfhip with/Crod, Whence karn, u People redeemed by God , are no more their own,, but are the Lords purchafc, redeemed for his iiervice: tfudab was bis fanHiiary > and. Ifrael was bis"'dominion. 1. The title and intercft which God juftly doth claime in his people, isthat they may be confecrated unto him in holineffe, and'fub-jed themfelves as his loyal Subjects to his Government : jp#-dab vcas his fanftunry, and Ifrael was bis dominion. 5. All the confecration and fan&ification of Ifrael, is comprehended in

and

•ndflowethfrotnwhn was to be found in rhc tribe of fudsb, •nd that is in Chrift Jefus the hWer o( his tribe: All Ijrael *k bit dominion, but Judah is bit fan ft vary.

Verf. 3. The Sea fare if, ani fled: Jeriam »* driven bactr^

The third rcafon of Godspraife for this work, is from the drying of the red^fca, and of Jordan, that his people might paflc ©ut of Egjfty and into Canaan. Wbenee learn, 1. Godt dealing for his people whom he hath ranfomed, doth prove his wonderfull power for them, and love towards them, as the two miracles of the drying of the fca, and of Jordan do commend the redemption of ijrael. a. When God will deliver'his people, no oppofition can hinder, and when he will pofiefie them in what he promifed, no impediment can withftand him: The Sea fiw it, and fled i And Jordan was driven bac^.

Vert 4« The mountaines skipped Ul^e ramt % ao4 the little hills lilej lambs.

The fourth reafon of Gods praifc, is the caufuig mount Hartb *nd other hills ( in their way to Canaan) to tremble and quake, when he put foith his power on them in the fight of his people. Whence learn, 1. There is no power in the earth which God cannot overtop when he pleaicth, though they were like the ftrongeft mountaines: for as he can make the earth, fo can he move and remove any power on earth, at he gave evidence when he made the mountaines by earth-quake 10 $lejp Ufa rtns % and the Unit bills Ufa lambs*

Vcrf. 5. What ailed ihee > O thou fea float tbeuflei* deft ? thou Jordan that ikon waft driven back, ? , 6> Te mountaines that je slipped lilte rams: and je little hills like lambs}

7. Tremble thou earth at the frefence of th* LORD; at the frefence ofshe Qeiof'font:

Tke

The fifth reafon of Gods praife, is the evidencing of his po-\fkv, put forth before his people^ in fo wondeifuli and miraculous a nianner, as no caufe can be given of the works wrought for his people in rheir coming out from Egypt, their entry into Ctnaan, and in the wilde;nefle 3 except only Gods extraordinary manifeftarion of his prefence amongft his people, and for them : which thePfalmift bringeth forth,by asking the caufe of thefe mi-• rades, & anfwering the qui ft ion by the terrible prefene'e of God. Whence learn, i.Thc Lord can work fo clearly for hispeopk,that the mod ftupid and brute fouls flial be convinced of his refpefl: to his childrenj as-this experience doth (hew. 1. If Atheifme, and unbeliefc in m*n could finde 3ny natural reafon, or any pretence of reafon, whereby they might obfeure the glory of Gods doing for his people, they would not faile to do it, as this interrogation teacheth; W\m ailed thee, 0 thou Sea> &d 3. The more narrowly the works of the Lord are locked unto, the mere evidently doth his power and prefencc appeare in working them, a* theanfwer unto the quefticn, and holding forth the Lords pie-fence twice for the caufe of fuch changes on the creatures do {hew. 4. The end and life of Gods power fhanifefted in favour of his people, is fir ft, that all flefh fhould fear God, and ftand in awe of him* and next, that his covenanted people lhould look upon his terrour, as their bulwarks: Tremble thou earth at the prefence of the Lord, at the prefencc of the Gad of

Verf. 8. Which turned the roc\ into 4 jiandiftg #4-teri the flint into a fountain of waters.

The fixth reafon of Gods praife, in the woik of delivery of his people out of Egypt, is his wonderfull provifion for thei* drinkinthedry wilderneffe, by diflclvingthe flinty reck into. ! water; Whence learn, 1. Whomfoeverthc Lord doth redeem, and let upon their way to heaven, he will provide for wharfoever isneceflary for their fuftcntation and comfort in their journey, ashis providing ot drink for the camp of Ifrael giverh proof. l. We beins called of God to follow our Redeemer, till we, bz putinpoflcitionofpromiijes,muft not ftand<for any difficulty, or dha^earance of meanes for our fuftentation and comfort, for God can work his puipofeby contiary-like meanes: He turned the ro\ nit? a (landing -water . the flint into a f'ouhtaine of waters. & PSA&Mfi

i

130 PSALME CXV.

PSALM CXV.

THe Church of Ifrael being under the power of the heathen, and unable to help themfelves, do flee to God for relief; and in the former part of the Pfalm, they pray for delivery, ftrength-ening their hope td be heard, by fourc arguments* untoi/. $. Inthebtier part, the Church is encouraged to truft in God, and to expert deliverance in due time by feveral reafons, all ferving to confirme their faith, unto the end of the Pfalme.

Verf. i. Vfft M^ ^ O LORD, not unto us^ jS\ but unto thy Name give glory : for thy mercy ^ and/<?r thy truths fake*

In praying for relief from the bondage of idolaters, they rejeel all confidence in thcmfelves, and bring arguments of their hope to be helped from other grounds, mxnee learn, 1. It is no ftrange thing to fee Gods people for their chaftifement, or trial, put under the power of idolaters, as this experience of Ifrael doth ihew. 2. When we feek any thing from God, we ought to acknowledge our own unworthineflc and ill deferving, and to renounce -A\ confidence in our felves: Hot unto m give the glory, faith the Church here. j. Albeit the Lords afflicted people may want all ground of hope from their own behaviour, yet grounds of hope can never be wanting, when they look to Gods mercy and truth, and the glory of his grace in helping of them ? !]\0* unto wi y 0 LOR'D, not unto us, b>X untotby Namegivcglo-ty : for thy mercy ^ and for thy truths faty. '

VerC 2. Wherefore fhouU the heathen fay : where is now their God?

Thefecond'rcafondfhopeto have tfeeir petition granted, i*

becaufc*

Ijecaufe ifthe Lord do not deliver them, idotaters, under wbqfe power they do lie, will continue to Mafpheme the true Religion, and the true God, whom the true Church doth worfhip. Wbencj lam. 1. The enemies of the Church are ready to blafyheme the true Religion, when the Lords people arc brought in ftraits. and under their pnver, as hcr^TkeheAtbehfiy, Where is how their God.) When we have brought our felvesinmifery, and our Religion in danger of dii^race, weough: to be more ctrefiill to have the Loi d reftored to his honour $ mdtrue Religion reftcned unto its own beauty, then to be freed from mifei y$ for the Church herf cannot endure the cimonou** of God 111 their affliction: Wherefore jbould the heathen fay , Whcrekmrt their god ?

Vcrf, 3. Sat our god is in the heavens j he hath done whatfoever he pie a fed.

The third reason of hope to be heard, is, becaufe God is omnipotent , and fupreme Governouv of all things, and his authority is as his power, abfoliitc, to do what he pleafeth : and this tea-fonftrengthensalfo the former leaforf. Whence leam. 1. The more the wicked do oppofe God and the true Religion^ the more fhould his fervants aflert his glory, and truth: as the Church doth here, faying, Tut our god is in heaven. 2. The confide-ration of Gods abfol ute power, and authority exalteth God a-bove all idols, ftoppeth all murmuration againft his ditpenfati-on toward his people,and their enemies,- ctofeth all difpiitati on againft his revealed will, and looicth all objections, ariGng from' difficulties, arid impediments, which mi^ht hinder hope to be i helped out of mi fery, as here wc fee, Qur God is in heaven, be doth whatfoever bcpleafctb,

Verf. 4, Their idols are (liver and gold i the ^ort^ of mens hands.

5. They haVe months,hut thej (peakenot: ejtshwt they, bat they fee not.

6. They have eares t but they hear not: nofes have ihey^m they fnitll not.

K i 7. Thej

7. They \\Mt hands % but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither j}ea^thej through their throat.

A fourth reafon of hcpeahat theChurch fhall be delivered from the pewer of idolaters, is^becaufe there is no other God to deliver them, fave the Lord : Idols can neither help their Worshippers, ncr hurt Gods people who defpife them, and therefore his people will hope in their own true God, and defpife idolaters and their idcls both. Wbcvcc learn. 1. Imnges in the matter of Religion whatfoevcr they fcem to be, or reprefent, are but idols S for fo are they called here 1. Images in Religion prone nothing, but bring trouble to men, as their name in the original importeth. 3. Albeit idolaters do beftow largely upon their Idols; and put upon them artificially fome iliape, to reprcfenc fome perfections by them , yet the riches of the matter can give them no excellency : They are but filver or gold at the bell, their forgers and authours are but men; for it is fufficient to difgrace any point of Religion i-r it be of mans devifing : They are the vporl^of mens bunds. 4 So many members as the 1-mages have : ferving to rcprefent fome perfections by, them , are fomany lies: for they havemoutbes, b"t fpeafi not > eyes have they, but tbey fee not; Tlxybuve tares , but they beare nor, 710fes have they, but they (melt not 5 they have , bunds but they bundle not; feet have the?, but they mli not, neither ffcal{ they through their throat.

Verf. 8. They that mak* them y are like unto then) : fo is every one that trttfteth in them.

forclo/ing this reafon,he tumeth the reproach, which idolaters did caft upon the true f God and his worfhip, oyer upon thtmfclves. Whence learn, 1. Albeit the Lord be angry at his own people, yet mull: th>y not forfakehim, and go after idols' to be helped by them; for fo doth the Church here teach us, a. The confederation of the folly of falfe Religion, fliouM make us cleave the clofer to the true Religion, and to abhorre the errors of humane deviling; for foarewe taught by this zx-amplc. 3. As it is an honour to be of the true Religion ; fo S

h

isthegrcatcfldifgrace a man can Lave, to be an idolater: for jhedilgrace of the idol falieth upon the wor/hipper thereof, as here we fee. 4. All idolaters a;cbrutifh, the makers of idols, authorizes of them, worfhippers and fervers of thern, are all like realonleffe, and fer.fkfie blocks, in this matter, like the idols which they make: They that make them, are like unto thorn* that is, They have eyes, and fee not, &c, $ Whofoever do expect any good, by making or worshipping of images, they joyne inward worfhipping of them, with the outward : and in their expecting any good by that means, they prove thsmielves like reafonlefle blocks, as void of true wifdome in this point, as ima, gesareof fenfe and motion: So is every one that trufteth in than.

Verf. 9. 0 Ifrael trnft thou in the LORD, he U theif help , and their foetid*

I a O houfe of Aaron % trtift in the LORD: hi is their help, and their foetid.

I r. Te that fear the LORD, trftft in the LORD ; he is their help, and their {hield.

In the latter part of the Pfalme, the Church is encouraged to trull in the Lord, and fo to expect deliverance according to- the petition fetdown s v. 1. And tfntby feven rcafons. The exhortation to truft in God is threefold, one directed to Ifrael, v- 9- Another cothe Prkfls, and Levits, v. 10. The third to all that fear God, v. n. Unto which exhorcation, the firft rcafon of encouragement is added and repeated again and again. Whence learn, 1. No tentation ot affliction fhcmld drive us from expe-cting relief in trouble, and trufting in God for it: for notwithftanding the Church here is under the fcet of the heathen, yet 2II are exhorted to trrft in God: 0 Ijratl, truft thou in the Lord. 2. Whofoever in their trouble do tfuft in God, may be a flu red tp be delivered, and guarded againft all evils which may marre their bleffedneffe: Truft in the Lord for be U their help>and their foicld. $. Th: Minifters of Gods houfe mould go before the Lords people in trufting in God, and adhering to him, fpecially in time of trouble > 0 houfe of /Aaron, truft id the Lard, . 4- Such promifes as are made m K 3 com-

t*t PSALME CXV,

common to the houfe of lfrM t are diffident to fupport the faith ofpublick Minifters of the Lords houfe, as here we fee: He ii their belp,an1jhicld t 5. As every one thtt feareth God, is of tire number of tru. Ifra::lites: fo trufting in the Lord, he may be no le$e confident of the confoUtion, and protection of God, then the ^ublkkMi-niftersofthe Lords houfe: Te that far the Lord, trufl in tbeLori be is their help, andthcir Jhicld. And :his is the foil reafon of encouragement to truft in God.

Ver. t2. Jht LQ R D hath been windfall of w 9 he willihffem, he ^illb'ejje the hotife of Jfrael: he TfVtllhlejfe the hotife fif Aaron .

13. H* v>i& bl jfe them that fear the LORD ; both fmaS anigreat.

Thefecond-reafon of encouragement is taken from forme* experience of Gjds refpe&s unto his people that few him and the third is taken from tne prOmife of bl: .fling them, in time to come Wbecc learn, «. Albeit me Lord ufeth to zffil& his people* yet he do^-h "not forget them, or lay atide aSec'trori to them : The Lord bath bce\ mindful of va. *. The right ufeof by* paftexpeienceofGodscareofus in affliction and trials* is to puttruftin God in after-times of new trial and aflli&ion, as herfe) TbeLordbxtbbeekfaindfMofut, is made ufe of to this end. I As the duty intruding in the Lord, is common to all forts of pe-fons, fo the W.efling of faith is common, and dorfibelong to all forts of beleever 0 * great .nd fmall: He will b'ef]e #5, 'be will bkffethehoufe of Adr<m^be will blcffe tbtm that fur Lord, both gnu xndjrnM.

Verf. 14. The LORD fliM endeafejou more and piore ; jou am your children.

The fourth resfon of encouragement to tVuftin the Lord* fi£ becaufe the number of beleevers Yhall be multiplied. Whtncb leArn> Albeit the Church be driven to deep affli&iony and diftrefle, yet the number of the believers in God (hall ihcreafe* and the meafure of Gods graces in his people (hall be augmented* and no age even unto the laft (hall want a pofterity 'of -belie-" yers, and God will make no end of blclfine them, whkfr ; fsm"b

finall

fmall encouragement unto believers .• Tlx Lord fall encrcafc you fkore and moft 3 you and your children.

Verf. 15, Tou are bleffeA of the LORD, which made heaven and earth*

■ The fifth reafon of encouragement is, becaufe G >d omnipotent hath pronounced believe s to be blciied, how miferablc .o-ever they nuy fecm to themfelves, and to others. V^lhcnie learn y i. Whatlcevcr diftreffe b.lievers may fall into, yet can they never be riccurfed nor deprived of the bleffinj of ri-zbteoufnefie, and eternal life: for it is faid to them all, Jou dre blcffed of the Lord, who calieth things that are not, and maketh them :o be. i. The fight of the Lords work in making heaven and' earth of nothing, fhould flrcngthen us to appiehend how richly the Lord can and will perfect wha: he faith of bleffing his people : Ton are bleffcd of the Lord, who made the beiven mi the eartl^

V^rf. t 6. The heaven, even the heavens art the ZO RD S \bm the earth hath he giveu to the chiU dren of men.

Thefixth reafen of encouragement to truft in God is that albeit the Lord be abundantly iatisfied in himfei r e, and netd-eth nothing from the world, yet men have need to depend upon his goodneiTc, and truft in him, who ba;h given unto them the ufe of his creatures on the earth. Wb.ne learn 3 i % As it is no need of any creature which hath moved God to make a world, but rather his fupcrabundant felf-funiciency hath made the heavens & the earth, to thh end/hat therein he may let forth hisalfufficjency to the creatures: fo is it no need of mans fer-vice, which made him m ke a people and crave fc vice of them : for he could be fcrved with what he hath in Heaven j The b'ejL-vcn> even the berjens are the Lords, z. Albeit God huh no need of men, and can live without dependence on man, yet man cannot live without dependence on God, and uie of his creatines in the world • Tbeberoci is the Lords, but the earth hath be liven to the children of men, wherein they may dwell, and bcltiftaincd by what he beftoweth on them there. J. As the plenty of riches of the earth is a pawnc of the Lords readinefle

K 4 to

t;> give better things unto man: fo it is an evidence of mans fo* verty,and needlof the fervice of fo many of Gods creatures, and cf hisobligatro.'UO truft in God and depend upon him : The her'en is the Lords* but the earth batb be given to the children of mm.

Verf. xy. The dead praife not the LO RD: neither , any that go do^ n into pence.

18. Em We mil blefic the LOR D, from thi* ilrpe forth and for evermore. Praife the LO K D %

The feventh reafon of encouragement to truft in God>is,becaufe tlie Church of believers mall be continued from generation to generation, and mail never want reafon to p aiie and blefle God, from this time forth and for cvei'i Therefore in confidence of this mercy, let them truft in him, and praife him : this reafon he maketh clear thus; TJie dead fpirjtualjy cannot prai/e the Lord, and if the (ue-cefiion of the Church of believers fhoiud h£ now cut off with this afflicted generation, neither could we who live, praife God in the earth longer then we live on it, nor mould there be any Church after us to difchai-^e this duty among the children of men: but this is impoffibie, Tor God fhali not wane a generation of living believers to praife and bicilc him for his goodneffe to the worlds end ; Therefore we mall live and come forth of this prefent affliction, and ere we die, another genera* tionofbclieveri mall take this work off our hand, and fo (hall we that are the Church ofvjod, blcjfc him from this time forth dnd for evermore: Wncreupon Le exhoi teth all men in this confidence to praife the Lord, and clot.th the Palme. Whence* lam, is If there were not a Church of believers, God mould want his praife on the earth ! for the de;d, to wit fpirituajly, dq not praife the Lord. z. And if in anv time of affliction, wjiile the world fhndeth, there were not a deliverance unto the Church, fo that one generation of believers might not foltow another, then mould Gods praife among the children of men beabolifhedoutofthc world; for as the dead fpiritually cannot praife the Lord, (o neither can the dead bodily praife him among Them that know him not; that is, on the earth, where Gods praifeis:obe taught unto men: For the dead praife not the

tord t

Lord, fo neither any xhxtgo dvm into filencc. j. BecaufeG°<l (hall never w ajt living nun on earth to praife him, and blefle him for his goodneffe, therefore the Church of believers (hill be continued from one generation to another* that they mayblefle andpraife the Lord in every age, as here is faid, But we fiall praife the Lord- from this time forth ini for evermore 4. Th$ Churches affliction cannot be fo heavy, but they (frail have came to blefle the Lord for his goodneffe, andtoftirre up others to praife God with them : for the Prophet clofeth the Pfalmc made in deep affliction of the Church with, Praife the Loral

PSALME CXVI.

•"pHis Pfalme is a threefold engagement of the Pfelmift unto thankfgiving unto God for his mercy unto him, and in particular for ibme notable delivery of him from death, both bodily and fpirituall: The fir ft engagement is, that he (ball out of love have his recourfe unto God alwayes by prayer, v. 1,1. The reafom and motives whereof are fet down, becaufe of his delivery out of a great ftrait, v. } , 4, ?, 6,7, 8, The fecond engagement is to a holy converfation, v* 9. The motives and reafens whereof are fet down, v. 10,11, 12. Thethird engagement is, unto promifed praifes, or paying of praifes and vowes before the Church, with the rcafons thereof, v. 13, 14, *5> 16, I7j 18, 19.

Verf.

I * T Love the LORD: becaufe he hath bewA X tny voyce, and my /applications. 2. TSecaufe he hath eric lined kU tart unto mei therefore will I call upon bim^aj long as / Jj Vfm

In Ms firft engagement unto a conftant dependance upon God, and calling on him by prayers Learn. 1. A. it is anion* the wifcpurpolcsofGcdto put his childten to ftraites, that they mny call on him, and he by g:anting their petition may give them antwproofofhi$lcvetcthem,and ibilirre up their love

to him: to is it the duty of his children, to ftirre up their love to God, upon every frefh experience of his reipeel: to them : for this doth the example of the Prophet teach us, / love the Lor J, b euu fc he h Atb bur d my grayer. 2. Not Gods benefits, but God himfelfe is the fatisfa&ory object of our complacency, and love wherein we may acquiefce: / love the Lord, faith the Prophet, after he had perceived the benefit. J. To love God for himielf, •and to love him for his favour, and benefits beftcwed upon us, do confift Well together : for the loving of him for his favour beftcwed on us, doth lead us to love him for himfelfe ; / love the Lord; bccaufebcbeardmyvoycc, and my [uppli cat ions. 4. The root of.tfcankfgiving is love to God, therefore love is profefled, before thankfgiving be prorniied m > I love the Lord, is hi ft let down, and then a promife to call upon him in all ftraits thereafter. 5* Ic is no {mall comfort and obligation put upon a man, to have experience of Gods regarding of his prayer, and g- anting of his recjueft, as the Pialmifts twice mentioning of it lhevv-cth,once. v. 1, arid hereagain,- becanfe he Imk enclificd hU eart wnome. 6. One proof of Gods hearing cf our prayer, may and /hould ftirre us up to believe in hi«i, worihiphim 3 and have our yecourfc by prayer uhto him all the reft of our life: Bccauje be hathenclinedbis care to me; therefore will 1 call upon him y as iMgMllivc.

, Ver£ 3. The for rows of* deathI'compaffed me ', and deprives rf hell gat hold upon me: i found trouble Andfof row.

The fumme of the reafons of this engagement, is fet down in his late experience, containing his deep trouble, v. 3. His calling to God for relief, v. 4 And Gods grace and mercy ufually extended unto poor {applicants, which helped him out of his low condition, 1/. 5,6 The ufc whereof, namely to reft on God who had delivered him, is \nv. 7. 8.

From his trouble and danger wherein he was ; Learn, r. It is no Grange thing to fee a godly perfon to be in fear of death, bo-.'ily and fpiriturdl, temporal and everlafting, at one time: The ferroxvs of death compiled me, and the paines of helf got hold upon me. z % The trouble of mindc and conscience alio, whereunro Gods children arc fubjeft, as :hey are feu d in their feveral degrees.

grees,cannot cafily be expreffed, therefore here arc diver, words ufciySorroxvcs ofdeath, paines of bell) trouble and felt for row. $. The greatneffe of the trouble, cTapger, mifery ana itiaits, whe eintothe Lorddorh caft his cwn,dothlay a greater obligation on ihem who are delivered from thofe evils, and makcth Gods glorv to be the more manifefted in their bringing out of them, as thefcopc oi the Pfalmifts laying forth of l>is troubles here doth teach us.

Verf. 4. Then called I upon the Name of the LORD: 0 LO ii<Z), / be fetch thee deliver my foul.

From his courfe taken to have relief by calling on God; Learn* I. Theonly true remedy of a grieved foul, is God being called upon by prayers for he is a itrong refuge whercunto the humble foul may flee, and be exalted : 1 called upon the Name of the Lord. z. There is place and time for prayer, even when the danger ieemethgreateft- and the condition of the party fuppii-cant appearcth defperatc, as here we fee, When the paines of hell caught hold upon me, then called Ion the Name of the Lord. $. Whether cur defires be laid open before God in many words, or few, it is not material before God : fisch a hearty fpeech as this will parte before God for prayer, 0 Lord, I bcfcccb tbcc 3 Zdivfr my foul.

Verf. 5. GraciousU the ZORD 9 and righteous : jea, our God is merciful.

6. The LORD preferveth thefimple: 1 was brought low, andhe helpedme :

From the fountainc of grace and mercy, whence he was helped* Learn. 1. Gods gracious and merciful alliens do give evidence T)fhis gracious nature,an dreadinefletofliew favour to all men, ■ who according to the tenor of the Covenant of grace do call on him, as he:q the P.ulmifl: to iliew the came of his receiving "adtualiyagobd-anfyvc!-, faith, Gracious is the Lord, and rightc-~ous,yca 3 oitrGodis mcrcifulL i. There is nothing wanting in Gods attributes, whuh may give afiuiancc to the believing (applicant,

plicanr, to have his requeft granted : he is gracious, and ftandeth not for the pcrfons unworthineflc i he is juft and righteous, and will not faile to keep Covenant, and per forme all promises 5 he is mercifully and doth not fhnd to pardon f nne, iniquity and tranfgreffions: Gracious k the l ord, and. righteous,yea, our god w merciful. $. The Lords children commonly are not the worldly-wiftft people, but for the meft part arc of mean Worldly witj and whofoever of them hath any meafure of prudence, they arc for the courfe which they keep in trials and troubles, accounted fooliih, yea, and in their own eftinution they are very witleffe, and dare not leant to their own under-ftanding, but do feck to bedire&cd of God; therefore they are here and el few he re called fimplc. 4. Sudi as are emptied of conceit of their own wifdome, and fcek their direction, protc&i-©n, and prcfervation from Go^> do lie ncarcft unto the fountain of Gods mercy and help in every difficulty: For the Lord freferveth the fimple. f. Any one example of Gods grace and •mercy to any believer, is fufficienr to prove Gods nature, inclination, readinefle, and good will to every believer that calieth ©nhimjforcafeneth the Pfalmift ; I wot brought lon*> and he helped me.

Verf. 7. Retume unto thy reft , 0 my foul: for the LOR D hath dealt bountifully With thee.

8. For thon h*fl delivered my foul from death , mine eyes from leans , and my feet from falling*

Here is a twofold ufeofthis experience, one t© fettle his confidence on God, another to praife God fcr the experience of lb great a delivery. Whence learn, 1. The general ufe of all the experiences of Gods favour which we finde, is the ftrengthenirig of our faith in God, as here we are taught. 2. .Aibei: trouble and tentaiions do not overcome our faith, yet they may and ufu-ally do perturbe 5 ifnot the peace o r our conscience, yet at leal) the peace cfourminde,andfemctimes the peace of both: for, O my foul, retume to thy reft, imports a difquieting of him from his reft. 3. As wefhould ftudynot only to lay hold on God by faith, bur alfo to reft and acquiefce in his love and truth cor.-pdemly: fo fhould we take advantage cf every frefli experience

of

of Gods favour, whereby we encourage our felve* to rcfie upon <2ods grace and mercy, as here the Pfaimiftdoth : Tieturnc unto thy rcjt, Omyfoi.li for the Lord hxtb dealt bountifully with thee, 4. Mediation of Godsgoodncfle to us, and ipeaking of i: In the third perfon, is a ready way to bring us unto nearer ac-cefle unto God,and to fpeah unto his Majcfty in the fecond perfon, as here we tec ; For thou haft delivered my font from death , iaith he, directing his fpeech to Goa. 5. When outward trouble and inward tcntations dofct upon a foul at one time, wheel men do (hewtheir wrath., and God hideth his face, it is a fad condition,able to draw teares from the ftouuft heart, and to put him in hazard of finning, and in peril to perifli: Thou haft delivered my foul from death, mine eyes from teares , and my feet from falling. 6. As an humble and fenfible foul will pact up many troubles joy nrd together in one, fo a thank mil foul will branch one merey out in fundry particular branches, as here the PfalraUHiftinguiihcth, the delivery of hi* foul from dcatft, of his eyes from teares, and of his feel from falling.

Vc rf. 9. 1 will Tvtlk before theLO R *D, in the land of the living.

The fecond engagement by way of thankfulnetfe, is ont© a more holy way ot walking with God, whercunto as his taith made him confideir, that he-fhould attain, v. 10. fo his recovery from defperation made him a debtor to purfue the c'uty, v. it. and a debtor ia. fohigh ameafure, as he knew not hotf to be :har,kfu'tl,i;. 1 i.

F om his hopefull engagement to a holy carriage before God' and his Church* Learn y 1. It is a goodufe of experiences of Gods eoodnefle unto us, to engage and oblige our felves to a mere Lure and holy ordering of cur wayes, as the Pfalmift did: J will walfi before the Lord. 2, As the time of our life is the proper opportunity ot fhewing our tharktulnefle to God: fo the viiible Church is the fitteft fociety we can live in, for cxprefllng our thankfulnefie : for while we are living, and living among the godly ( be fide whole fociety theielV of the world j$ asi company of dead copies) we have time and place of manifeftin* cur obedience unto God : J will walk bejerc the Lord in the land of the living. 3. As a Gnce:econ\Ci:;ui;m hath God and picnio.he wkntifes unto it, io fliould the uyrijjht fcivaru *f

* F ' GcJ

God ftudy to approve himfelfe to both, as the Pfaltnift doth i 1 will walk before the Lord; in the land of the living.

Verf. 10. 7 be\eeved % therefore have 1 Jpofynx / ttw greatly afflitled.

11, / (aid in my hafte: ^411 men are Itars.

12. Whatjhd I render unto the LORD for at hid benefits towards me?

He adddh motives unto this his confident and hopeful! engagement. W'bcncc learn^ i ♦ Faith giveth boldnefle to pro-mile to our felvcs, and of our felves, what the Lords Word doth give warrant for: J believed, therefore have I fpolicfo i. Faith isourfureft holding of Gods bieflings, more fare then prefent fenfe, or experience paft, or begun pofieffion, for all thofe may be interrupted, and overclouded, but faith laying hold on Gods Wordjholdsfaftjwhen all things elfedofaiL I believed ,thcrforc I have fpel^eju $. Oar comfort, confidence, and quietneffe, and delivery are fo much the fwceter, as heavy troubles and tentati* ons have gone before them, as lire the engagement is more chearful, and confidence more precious, Tlecaufe ( faith he ) I tvm greatly afflicted, and more fpecially, I faidin my hafte : tAlt men arc liars, which if we take it of Vavid, doth fhew that he doubted of the performance of the promife of the Kingdome, made, in Gods Name to him by Samuel, and therefore was fo much the more comforted, when he faw the truth of it appear again. 4» ThefervantsofGod do not flick to confefle their faults and infirmities unto their own fliame, when thereby God may be glorified $ as here the Pfalmift faith, I [aid in my haftc, &c. 5. Mif-beliefe may fometimes fo farre prevaile, as it may feem to reigne, and as a Jadge to (it down, and give out decrees: lfaidinmy baftc, that is,"l gave it forth as a condufion or decree., 6. As haftineffe is the proper companion of mif-be-lief, fo it cannot endure lon^ in a believer, but onely during the time of an inconfiderate paffion, and fit of tentation: jf faid in ray bafte* 7. When mif-belief dares not directly vent it felfc againit God, or Gods expreffe Word, it falls to quarrel with the meffenger, and his fidelity in his commiffion j I [aid in my hafte* 4U men m liars* 8. He that feetfe Gods benefits rightly, fliall

fee

fee himfelf unable to give thanks as bee mes him, and fliall be forced tp fay, IVbxtlhd I render mto the Lord ? Yea, one benefit well confnlcrcd, fliall call to minde many by-paft, and present with it, many other prefent mercies, as this one delivery makeththe Pfahnift fay, Wbtt fljatl 1 render to the Lord for alibis benefits towardsme ? 9. Thefecn impoflibility to render cu: thanks, and praife to God for his mercies to us* ihould no* hinder us, but rather ftirre us up to aime at the duty, as we ate enabled, as here it doth the Piahirift.

Verf, 13. / Will take the cup of falvation: and call upon the Name of the LO R^D.

14. I^illpajmy voices unto the LORD, now in theprefence of all his people.

The third engagement is unto expreffe praifmg of God, be* fere the Congregation, as he had vowed, v. 1 3, 14. the reafon whereof is given, v. 15, 16. and the engagement repeated, v 17 1 5, 10.

In his promifmg to pay his vows, and to give thanks publickly, he alluded ro the forme of the Lcvhical cercmony,ufcd in drink-offerings, as 1 £or. 10. 16. Whence lam, 1. All that we can do when God hath beftowed upon us all that can be defiied, is to* acknowledge the goodncfe of God, and to thank him for it, and this alio muft be prefentedunto God by our High Pricft Jefus-Chrift, and fo it is accepted : I will til{c the cup of falv&tion : oi\ I will take the cup of"bleiTin^, and tn:nikfgiving for falvation granted to me for the true iacririccs fake. 2. It is reckoned by God as a point of thankfulnefle for benefits already received, to come to God, and feek yet more benefits of him, as our need requireth.as here we fee : I militate the cup of [dvztion y r;i call upon the %xme of the Lord. 5. In time of ftraitsit is law-full for ftrengthening of our faith,anc] ro tic us the more firmly tg give thanks unto ^od, to make a vow to God that we will praic him, provided we vow nothing but what God doth allow, ancf provided wc do not intend to put an obiigement upon Gml to help tuby that mcanes,ns here, i" will fay .my vowes wtU} the

Lord, vjiv in preface c full bis people 4. When alawfull vow

JsmaJc., wc fliouM he mindful! :o perfume U truly, as th*

Pfaimifts example h* e seachgebus.

Verf. if.

Verf. 15. Preciotu in the fight of the LORT) ,h the death of bis Saints.

16. 0 LORD, truly I am thy fervant, I am thy fervant, and the fonne of thy handmaid: than baft loofed my bonds.

The motives of this engagement arc .* firft, becaufe God tfteemeth much of the blood of his fervantSjV. 1 $. Nexr, becaufe (rod had ufed him as own of his own family, and made him as a free-born childe, to be fct at liberty from the bondage he was in, v. \6> Whence learn^ 1. ^ods children are, and ihould ftudy to be more and more good, mercifull, and meek ; for thus much doth rhe word Saints in the Original fig-nifie. i Albeit the Lords children are very precious in his eyes, yet will he put them to fufterings and hazard of life, but lets them not be killed, except he lee it for his own honour, and theirs alio S3nd in that cafe, howibever the world (hall cfteena of their death, yet fhallitbedeare and precious in Cjods eyes : Precious in the eyes of the Lerd^ ishbc death ofhk [aims. $. What eftimation God manifefteth himfelfe to have of any of his Saints 3 he hath the fame eftimation of all ; and what proof he giveth of his eftimation of them, in the pi cfervation of any one ofthent in time of their danger and fuffering, it may ferve to clear his care of all; for the Pfalmift intending to praiie Cfod for the care he had of him, draweth up the praife with retpeft to all the S3in:s; precious in the fight of the Lord, is the death of bis Saiflts, without exception. 4. What privileges we do believe to belong to Gods children, we may and fhcuTd apply them to our felves, as the Plalmift doth here s after the general doctrine of^ods eftimation of his Saints, he fubjoyneth and aflumeth to himfelfe in particular,faying, 0 lord, truly I am thy fervant. 5. He who feareth, or doubtcth to apply the privileges of Gods children to himfelfe under fome higher title, may and rtiould apply it to himfelfe under fome other tide more fuitable to his condition and meafure: as here, albeir the Pfalmift doth not fay, 0 Lord, lama Saint, yet he faith it in fubftance, in a more humble-like title, 0 Lord, I am tly fervant > and the fonne of thine handmaid^ that is, a born fervant within the houfe, as the childc $f the bend-maid under the law, was born a bend-fervant

X9

to the Matter of the family. 6. How unworthy fdcver we finds c»ur felvesofthemeaneft ftiles of the Lords children, yet muft we joyne our fetves to that number under fome tide, and not fufTer our felves to be put out of that fociety, as here the Pfalrn-ift, albeit confeious to his own unworthinefs and infirmity in fervice, yet being confeious alfo to an honeft purpole> and endeavour to lirve God, doth averre and affert his intereftin God asafcrvant, anddoubleth and trebleth the afleveration : Truly 1 amtby I'ervtnty 3nd again, J" am thy fervant, and the third time, The fonne of tbitie handmaid \ becaufe borne within the vifibleChurch,achildeof the Covenant, claiming right unto Gods family by it. 7 Albeit we can f ijeak little of our doing fer-vice unto God, yet if we cm fpeak of Gods doing to us and forusj as for his own children, delivering us from thzbonds of fin, Satan* hell, and hellifh torments of conscience, we (hall prove the point of our intereft in God, as here the Pialmiffy lor proof that his death was precious in Gods eyes and that hs was cared for as a childe of the family, faith j Thou haft loofei toy bonds, and fohe preveth his point.

Vcrf. 17. I mil offer to thee the facrifice ofthanks* giving, and Willcallupon tbt Name of the LORD.

18. I trill pay mj vorves unto the LORT)^ novo in tki f refence vfaft his people :

J 9. In the courts of the LORDS houfe : in tk toiddes efthee^ Oferufalcm: Praifeje the LORD.

He repeateth the 1 * third engagement unto folcmn praifing of God, and with this alio, the fail engagement unto dependence on God* byworfhippingandinvocatingof his Name, whence learn, 1. Believers in the Church of ifuel before Chi ill, did not reft upon the exrerrtil ceremonies, but did look through them to the fpirirual intent and fignifi&tioh of the ce-emotes . fc for moral and fpiritual fervice is here promifed by the Plalmift; I will offer to thec the ftcrifee of thanksgiving, aid will cal upon the Name of the Lord. ~. Believers in the Church tofljracl knew that even no moral fervice, nor fpiritual fervice was acceptable to God, except through the lnte'Ctffion, fufter* ingi and oblation of Chtitt, figniflfed ty the faerificesj for k there-

therefore doth he call his praitfng of God* facrifice } 1 will effer unto thee the acrifct of tbauly'giving, 3. Thepromifes and vowesofthc fincere fcivantof God, fhonldnotbe fleetin^ motions, and laflicxpreffions, but refolute and fixedpurpofes of the heart, which a man needs not repent or alter > as the repeating of the former engagement here doth teach us; 1 will pay my vorves, (?c. is repeated in the fame words. 4. Publike aflembliesof Gods people and places to meet in are needful, that by this meanes God maybe more folemnly glorified, and his people edified and (lengthened in the fervice of God, and profeffion of his truth ; 1 will pay my vowes in the courts of the Lords houfe, in the midft oftbee, 0 fcrufalcm. 5. When a man hath Did ail he can for Gods p L aHe, he muft acknowledge that Gods praife is a work which requireth more hands then his own, to lift at fuch a weighty facrifice; for this doth the Prophets example teach us, clofagthe Pfalme with Praife yc the Lord.

PSALM CXVIL

Ver. 1. /""X Praife the LORD ad ye Nation ? K*S praife him all je people*

2, For hij mercifurkindnefs is great towards tax and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praife je the LORD.

TKis Pfalme is an exhortation to the Gentiles to praife God> v. 1. for his mercy and truth toward his people, v. 2. Whence learn , 1. In Gods worfhip it is not alwayes neceflary to be long ' y few words fometime fay what is fufficient,as this fhort Pfalme giveth us to underftand. 2* The Converfion of the Gentiles was forefcen and foretold long beforethe Jewes were rejected, as this exhortation directed unto them,and prophefy-ing of their praifing God doth give evidence. 3. Invitation o( any to the fellowship of Gods worship,and in fpecial unto praife arid thaakfdvina, is an invitation of them to renounce their

finful

PSALME CXVII. *47

fmful couife, and to fubjcd themfelves unto God in Chrifts » and to embrace the offer of his grace, that fo they may joyue-with

the Church in the fong of p.aifes: for all the Nations are invited to come unto the fociety of the Church in thefe words ', O praife the Lord, allye Nations. 4. Yea, this invitation of all the Nations to praife God, fctdownin Scripture, is a prophecy which was to take effect in all theeled Gentiles in all Nations, for foreafoneth the Apoftle, Rem* 15. 11, from this place, Vraije hint allye people, 5. Albeit t here" be matter of praife unto God in himfelf, though we mould not be partakers of any benefit from him, yet the Lord doth give his people caufetc* praife him for favours to therri in their own particular: Forbk mercifid\ind ejje is great towards itil 6. There is no leffe reafpii to praife God for what he hath promited, then for what he hath given already > For the truth of the Lord endmeth forever, is made a reafon of his praife. 7. As Gods kindnefle and truth are the pillars of our falvation, fo alfo are they the matter of our praife, which alwayes go together, and run in the fame channel toward the fame perfons, and do run abundantly and for ever together 5 His fyndnejfc is great towards tis, and the ,truth of the Lord endured? fr ever.. .8. All they who hear of God,are bound to praife G^d ; Vraifeye the Lord.

PSALME CXVIIL

'TPHeKalmiftinthis thankfgiving for bringing him fow.on-derfully to the Kingdome, prophefieth in this Pfalme of Chrifts troubles by his enemies, and of his victories over them, both in his own perfon, and in his myftical body. This Pfalrrt hath fuch.an eye and refpeft unto Chrift and his Church, that wbatfoever fliadow of thefe things may be found in David, the main fubftance and accomplifhment of all things herein con* tained, gec to be found moft clearly and fully in Chrifts wraft-ling with his enemies, and his triumphing over them for the comfort of the Church, and glory of the Facher: and this the Church- of Ifrael did perceive and acknowledge, as appearetfaf by their acclamation taken out of this PHme, and made to, Chrift at his coming irao ^erufatcm as King riding, and by h £ Ghrifts

Chriftsinte rpretaticn, and appropriating of it unto himfelf* A/^r. 11.9, 15,42. Forthiscaufe alfo the Pfalmift doth not prcfixe his name unto this Pfalme, whatsoever might be fit for his particular experience in it, but leavcth it to run the more clearly and directly toward the Medial),, or Chrift, who is here mainly intended.

ThePt3lmmay be divided into three parts. In the fiVft, the P»almift> and C hrjft reprefented by him, exhorteth the Church to praile ood, and £iveth fundry reafons for it, unto v. 14. In the fecond, he reneweth the fong of Gods praife, and giveih new reafons for the lame, to v. 19. In the third, Chrifts triumph is fct down 9 wherein he gceth into the Temple and fo-lemn Aflembl y of the Church, and here Chrift by his rejoycing ilirre.th up the Church to rcjoyce, and the Church giveth acclamation to him astheir Lord and King, and all the company do rejoyce together, and Pricfts and people ftir up one anorher to praife the Lord, unto the end of the Pfalme.

Ver. I. /~\ give thank* unto the LORD^ for

KJhe is good: becattfe his mercy endureth for ever. 2. Let Ifrael now fay: that his mercy endureth for ever.

5, Let the houfe of Aaron now fay : that his mercy endureth forever.

4. Let them noVo that fear e the LORD } fay : that hit mercy endureth for ever.

The exhortation is unto the vifible Church in. general, to thank God for his evcrlafting mercy, and to the houfe of At-ron, and to thofe that fear God more fpecialiy, to praife him for that fame caufe. Wbacc learn, 1. Upon all occafions we ought to glorifie God, and ftir up others to do fo, efpecially when wc coniidcr what God doth for the Kingdom of Chrift, and here kt us fay : O give things nnto the Lord. . 2.Albeit the wifdorri, power and jufticc of God, be glorious matter of praifing of him, y«£ none can heartily glorifie him for thefe reafons, till they firft

fcavc

have experience of the fweetncffe of his goodncfs and mercie; * Give thanks* for be is zood, for bis mercy enduretb for ever. 3. Such as are partakers olthc goodnefs which is purchafed by Chrift, may lay hold on everlafting mercies, and give thanks forthefei 3ecaufe his mercy enduretb for ever, 4 Albeit all theeled haveintereft inGodspraife, for mercies purchafed by Chrift unto them, yet the eleS of Tfrad have the nrft mom in the fong: for Chrift is firft promifed to them, and cmic of them according to the flefh, and will be moft marvellous about them: Let Jfracl now fey y that bis mercy enduretb for ever. 5. Men who have more gifts, higher place, and in fpecial ihey who are Miniftcrsof Gods houfe, fhould go before others in gloiifying Gods mercy manifeftei in Chrift : Let the boufc of Aaron now fay , that his mercy enduretb for ever. 6. Whatfoever othe s do, fuch as worfhip God in their fpitits (inceiely 5 m uld let forth their th.inkfulneffe for Gods grace manifefted to v zm through Chrift j Let them now that fcare the Lord fiy> thathk mercy enduretb for ever. 7. As the falvation of the tied is one, and the love of God to them one: foihould their fong be one; as here fou-.-c federal times it is fa id; His mercy enduretb for ever. 8. Chrift being cpme at length into the world, in the fulnells of time, and having ended his fuflferings, and entered into his Kingdome, notwithstanding all the provocations of men to move God tocutfhort this mercy, hath given proof once for all of his everlafting goodncfle and mercy: therefore is it laid, Let ifrae! noWi Ln tAaron now ; Let tbcm that fare god now, fay, tb.it his mercy enduretb for ever. And this is one rc.ifou of his praifes

Ver. <{. / called upon the LORD in diflreffe : the LORD anfwered me % and fee me in a large place.

Another reafon of this thinkfgiving is, the P.almifts experience, reprefcnringChiifts fuftering and vi&ory, he called to God and was delivered. Whence learn , 1. As the deliverance which David had out of his troubles, wasareafonof joy to all the Kingdom of Jfracl, becaufe of thebenefi;? which they enjoyed under his Government: fo the deliverance which Chrift tad out of his fuflferings, is a reafon of joy, thankfgiving, and

L J glo-

glorifying God to all his fubjecb; I called upon the Lord in If* jlreffc? bcinfveeredme. ani jet me in a targe place, i. Albeit the JLord do bring his children into ftraits, ye: he will not le ave them in dift.-eflc, but will bring them forth into a large place, as this experience of the Pfalmift, and of Chnft ou- Head, both diftrefled and delivered for our fake , doth give affitfatrite. J. The diftrefle of the Lords children is not (6 bltttt Sts the delivery and enlargement out of it is fweet > For be an\wertd me, andfetme in a large dice, is here the matter of victorious joy, and of Gods highpraifes. 4. Delivery out of any great danger, is a matter of glorifying God, efpecially when it is the returne of prayer, a$ here, I called on the Lord, and be anjwcrcd

Verf. <5. The LORD is on mjftde t I fti// not feare ; tyhat can man do Unto me}

-j. The LORT> taketh my part with them that help me: therefore Jball 1 fee mydefire 0/w* them that bate me*

A third reafon of praife is, becaufe the Pfalmift hath by this experience received fuch confirmation of Gods refpect to him, as made him fearlefle for time to come, and afluved of the overthrow of his enemies. Whence learn, 1. Experience of hearing our prayer mould confirme us about Gods friendship: as here from his late experience hedrawech this Conclufion > The Lord U on my fide. i. Gods favour and friendship believed ihculdfreeus from thefeare of men; TheLordU on my fide, 1 mil not feare % 3. Albeit the power of man be an ordinary tentation to divert the godly from their duty, yet when Gods favour anJ difpleafure are well weighed, and compared with mans hatred and favour , ir (hall be found to be but little which mans either terrour or allurement can do, asrhisinterr rogation fpealceth* What can man do unto me? 4. Faith ob-taineth more good by deliveries, then it findeth hurt by affaults, and thenistruV faich viclorious, when Gods friend lb ip is op -oofed to whatfoeVe - the wrath of the creature can do, as here is teen, 5.Albeit we have gotten fome notable victories againft our enemies, yet we mull know our warfare is not ended : for

fo much doth the Pfalmift in(inuate,when he goeth to make parry a^ainft hiscnemies; The Lordisonmyfide y the \,ord ta^etbmy pxrt. 6. Albeit the Lords people do not defpife meanes and helpers, yet they rely not on them, but on Gods help, who can bleffc the meanes: The Lord td^etb my pxrt with them tbit help mc. 7. Faith in its own victory by Godsafliftance, feethalfo the 0-verthrow of the adverfaries j Tbehordu^tb my part, therefore I Pull fee my defire on tbem that bite me. 8. Many goodufes may a believer make of one benefit, one viftory, one experience, as here the Pfafmift doth, he confirmethhimfelf in his reconciliation and friendship with God, he encourageth him-felfagainft dangers to come, he exalteth God, and putteth down to nought the hatred and favour of man, he refolveth to ufe meanes, and to expect thebleriing from God, witho-therfundrygood ufes which follow hereafter.

Ver. 8. h is better to truji in the LORD, then to put confidence in man.

9. It is better to trufl in the LORD, then to put confidence in Princes.

A fourth reafon of praife and thanks unto God, is for blefli.ig th: courfe of faith, and making it better then the courfe cf policy or carnal reafo*^; Whence Icwn, i.As faith garhereth ftrength, when it feeth what blefling doth follow on beleeving, fo God gectcth praife by blefling the obedience of faith; It U better to trufl in the Lord, then to put confidence in men. z.Suchasbeleeve in God, in whatfoever mean condition they miy be in, are in better cae then the minions of Kings, who lean only to mens favour, and time will prove this to be true; Tha' it U better to trufl in the Lord, then to put confidence in Prince j.

Verf. 10. All Nations compared me about: hut in the Name of the LORD will 1 defiroy them.

11. The) compared mi about, jea,th?y compared me abottt : but in the Name of the LORD I Vei/l deftroj tbem* L 4 12.7 hey

12. They compared me about like bees, they are quenched as the fire of thornes : for in the Name of the LORD Imtt deftroy them.

A fifth reafon of thanks unto God ; is Davids vi&ory in the type, and Chrifts vi&ory (ignified, begun and made Cure to be perfected over a world of adveifaries. Whence learn, l.Manyadver-faries hadP'iv/i, but Chrift hath more; for all the world arc deadly adverfaries to him, All Rations compiled me about.

2. The-Church and Kingdom of Chrift hith neither power to defend it felt, nor way in this world to efcape from hs enemies; A\L Nations compared me about, is thrice exprefled.

3. Chrifts enemies are fodepiteful, that in fighting againft his Kingdome, they regard not what becomes of themfelvcs, fo be they may hurt his people; but as the B^e undoeth her felf in flinging, and loieth her life or her power with her fting, fo do they j T< ey cojmpaftedmeabo.t like bees- 4 All that the e» ncmies of Chifts Church can do againft his people, isbuttq {rouble h^ externally their wounds are like the fting of a Bee, that is unto paine and fwelling, and a ftiort trouble only, but are not deadly . They compared me about life bees. 5 .The pow -er whereby vi&o v y is obtained over the enemies of Chrift and bis people, is me6ly divine, even the Omnipotcncy of the Godhead of our Lord, who fighteth all his own battels and ours: In the Name of the LordwiUl deftroy tbem, thrice expreflcd, 6. Particular victories now and then, do give ground of hope of compleat victory over all enemies j for Chrift hath undertaken here to deftroy them all; In the Name of the Lord I •pill dcjlroy tbem. 7- The rcjoycing of the enemies, and the puttin a fo^h of their malice againft the Church, is but for a fhort mne,and all to deftroy themfclyes 5 They art quenched as the fire of thornes.

Ver. 1 3- Thou haft thrufl fore at me that 1 might fall: but the LQBSD helped me.

A fixthreafon of thanks, is, for delivery to Chrift myftical, fon the chief ruler of the ad vcrfe powers, that is, from Sata.ru IVhenccllearn, 1 «Whofoever be the inftruments of perfecution

of Chrift in hismembers, Satan is the prime Agent, the Captain of thefe curled fouldiers: for toward him mainly is this fpeecb directed ; Thou baft tbruft fore at me . z. The aime of Satan in his oppofition unto the Church, is to drive them from their ftarion which they have by faith in God, that they may defpaire and fin; Thou haft tbruft jore at *k that 1 might fall. 7,. H w weakibever the Lords perfecutcd children are, when Satan raifeth p: rfecution againft them, and river h his darts at them, yet doth he not prcvaile, becaufe God affifteth them » But tb^ Lord helped me. 4. The Lords (ervants being af-fifted in their rials, fhall have fuch deliverances, as mail givethem reafomo infult, time outofminde, over Satan.and all their enemies, as here the Pfalmift, as a type and fouldicr of Chrift, and Chrift our Chieitain doth.

Ver. 14. The LORD is my ftrength and Song : and is become mj falvation.

This we make the fecond p3rt of the Pfalme, wherein titf fong of praife and thankfgiving is renewed, and foure new rca-fons are added 1 And firft, he giveth all the glory of his victory unto God his ftrength and falvation. Whence learn, i. As humane ftrength is not fufficientto overcome Satan, fo mull the wiaftler be emptied of the conceit of his own abilities, and betake himfelf unto God, as the compleat furnifher of him, as this example doth teach us. 2. He that hath renounced confidence in created ftrength, and hath betaken himfelf unto Gods furniture promifed in his Word, fhall have caufcto fing, The Lord is my ftrength and fong, $. Experimental prooi of the truth of Gods promifes, is a new impreflion of believed truth, and a new taking up of it, which maketh a man fay, I perceive ' of a truth that God is fuch as he calleth himfelf; He U become my falvation,doih import fo much : and this is the firft reafon of his renewed fong«

Ver. 15. The voice of rejeycing, and falvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the LORD doth valiantly

16. 1he right band af the LORD is exalted: the t&bt handoftbe LORD doeth valiantly.

The fecond rcafon is from the joy which cometh totheju-ftified through faith in Chrift, for the certainty of their falvation purchafed by his fufterings and battels. Whence lexrn, x. Such as believe in Chrift, and do endeavour new obedience, a$ they arc the pet-fons to whom C'irift hath purchafed falvation, fo (hall theyfinde the joy of the pu-chafe, and acknowledge it to Gods glory: The voice of re\oyeingji>id[alux!ionisintbe ubernxcles of the righteous, z. A':beit the righteoas be pilgrims and have no fetled dwelling place, yet is their pilgrirmge and private tabernacles made refrefhful to them by the joy of their falvation; The voice of re joy ring anifxlvxthnis in the ixber-ntcles of the righteous. ;. The matter of the joy of the righteous, is the fight of Gods power employed for their fifety, and vi&oriotifly working out their falvation anl his own glory j The right hxni of the Lord doth viiixntly ; The right hxni of the Lord h exxlted; Tb: right hxni of the Lord doth v.di-antly.

Ver, 17. / (hxtnotdle % bat live : anddecUre the works °\ *be LORD.

The third reafon of thankfgiving, is aiTurance of complcat victory, and employment of all gifts given to him in Gads fer-vice. Wbeit:e lexrn, 1. The believer may be affured, that death fliill not prevent him, till he have ended his appointed feri vice.' and that as death had not dominion over Chrift, fofhall it not have laiting dominion over him; / fhxll not die, bit live: xnddec'xrethewo^ of the Lord. z. To hmour and praifeGod in this life, llnall be life to the beleever, and dearer to him then his life, in regard he loveth this life, and the nex; alfo, mainly b:caufe he (hill therein praife God : Ijhxllnot iiejxnt live, xni dcclxre the works of the Lord.

Ver. iS. The LORD hath chaftened me fore: but > he hath not given me over unta death.

The

PSALME CXVIII. 154

The fourth reafon of thankfeivine is, the Lords moderating aU ctaftifementsfo, as the Pfalmift is not deftroyed by them. Whence kirn, *.As Chnft our Head was chaftifed for our andtafted of death, but was not given over unto it: Co hisfervan's, albeit not exempted from chaftifements, yet they (hall not be deftroyed by them 5 The I erd hxth cbxjtened me fore, yet he hath not givervmc over to death, faith the type of Chrift, fpeakinghiftory of himfelf, andprophecie of Chrift. i* The moderation of chaftifements and (alvation wrought by them* ihouldfwallow up the grief of them, and make them the matter of our Song, as here we are taught; The t ord hxth chxftenti mc [ore,yet he hxth not given meover unto dextb. J. It is wi(-dom to obferve the moderation of chaftifements, as well as their fharpneffe and weight, -and to remember that when adverfaries do trouble us, and would deftroy us, God is about only to correct us, and do us good : as here is observed.

Ver. 19. Open to me the gates ofrighteoufnefte 11 willg$ iuto tbem> and will praife the LORD.

20. This U the gate of the LORD, into Vvhich the righteous fkall enter.

The third part of the Pfalme, wherein is fet down the royal triumph of the Pfalmift, as the type of Chrift ; Fiift, his marching up to the Sanctuary, v. 19,20. Then,his beginning theSongof praife, and exhorting all the Church to re. Joyce with him,1;. * 1,22, 2$, 24, Thirdly, the Churches acclamation to her triumphing King, v. 25, 6, 27. Fourthly, the Pfalmift as a type of Chrift, glorineth God reconciled by Covenant to the Church, andpromifcth to praife him ftill, and clofeth the Pfalm with an exhortation to thankfgiving,as he began/v. 28, 19

As forthefirft, the Pfalmift as the type of Chrift, commands to mr.ke way for his entering into the Lords Temple, and aflembly of the Saints where he may praife the Lord. f IVlxncc letrn, 1. The place of Chriftsand the believers triumphing on the earth, is the Aflembly of the Church, and they who are touched with the feeling of Gods grace and falvation, have and mould have a great defiie to have God glorified in the .holy ^fiemblies: Open to me the gxus of rigbtco"fneJfe. 2. As

the

the mneriil Temple of $erufalan was: fo every viable Af-fcmbly of the Saints, is the place where the righteoufnefle of faith and obedience is to be preached, where the Saints are to be edified in thecourfe of righceoufnefTe, and toward which the truly righteous have andfhouid hive great affection and de-fire to frequent and honour thefc meetings: Opento me the gates *f rigbtcoufncjfe y in which the righteous en;er: I will go into them. $. The exercile of the Church met together, is mainly to a proclaim the Lords praife: I will go into tbcm, and prlife the Lord. 4» The Church-alfembly i$ the convenient place,where the Lord and the righteous do meet; TbU is the gate of the Lord, into which tbe~rigbtcouijhall enter. Aid this is the firft 'part of the defcription of the triumph. /

Ver. 21. 1 Miff praife thee, for thou hajflteard me : and art become my fafoation.

22. The ftone which the builders refttjed, is become the head-Hone of the corner.

2J. This is the LORDS doing : it ii marvellous in cur eyes,

24. This is the day which the LORD hath made' we mil re Joyce and be glad in it.

The fecond part of the defcriprion of the triumph, hath the fang of the Pfalmift^as the typcof Chrifts fong of praife ,wheriti he in his own mme and in the name of ail believers praifeth God for hearing of the interceflion made for the Church, and for granting falvarion to them. IVbcnce learn, 1. The interceffion of Chrift, and the prayers alio of the Saints put up in his Name, are all granted, and thereby God is greatly glorified: 1 will praife thee, for thou baft beard me. z- The fcveral victories of Chrift, and of his militant members, are the fruits of Chrifts interccfli >n, and evidence of falvation to his myfticai members ', Tbouhafl beard me, and art become my falvation. j. As 'David the type, fo Chrift rep-efenred by him, was (v.-ft defpifedand fetat nought by the chief Rulers, before he was exalted; for he was indeed that precioas ftonefet at nought by men; The ftone which the builders refu fed. 4. Men imy have Jjijh place in the vHible Church, who cannot take up Chrift

when

when he (heweth bimfclf, who have little skill to embrace Chrift, and apply him to themfclvcs or others, as the builders of the Church, IMefts, Scribes and Pharifecs refufed to acknowledge Chrift fo much as for a true member of the Church j Heistb.it ftone which tb e builder srefufid. 5. Albeic men do milrcgard Chrift offering himfelf in his do&rine and ordinances, yet he is the rock whei eon the Church is builded, the foundation whereupon to fettle it, the corner-ftone to hold the building compact together, and the hcad-ftone of the corner for adorning and perre&ing the building gloriously, Mattb. %U 9,1 5, 42. ..• He U become the head-ftone of the corner. 6. In nothing more doth the wifdome, grace and power of God appear, then in the magnifying of Jefus Chrift, and building of his Church ; This is the wor\ of the Ltd, 7. When the weaknefe of the Church in her felt, and the power of her manifold enemies j and the impediments of this work are looked upon, k is a wonder of wonders to fee the going on of (j'ods work in it: This is the work of the Lord, and his marvellous in our eyes* 3. Albeit there be no day which God hath not made, yet in the day of the.manifdlation of righteoufnelTe, and life immortal through Chrift, the time of the Gofpei, and moftfpecially the c^ayofthcrefurre&icn of Chrift from the dead, wherein Chrift was declared vi&orioufly the only begotten Son of God, is made a day of light and gladnefle to poor felf-condemncd fin-ners: This U the day which the Lord hxtb mide. 9. Chi ift allow-ethjoy and gladnefle to eveiy beleever, and true member of his Churchy and willeth them to glorifie God in this holy juy, wherein he will joyne with them; Wewill rcjoyce and be gUi in it.

Ver. 25. Save now, Ibefeech thee, 0 LORD : 0 LORD) 1 befeech theeJendnowprofpcrUj.

26. BUffed be he that cometh in the Name of the LORD : ypt have bUJfed joti out of the houfe of

the lord.

27. God is the LORD which hath Jberved us light, bind the facrifce With cords, even unto the hornet of the Altar.

This

This is the third part of the triumph, wherein the Church makes her Lord welcome, and congratulateth his victory, prayeth for a bleffing uprn his Kingdome, prophefieth of the blcflings, and lets ha- felt to offer the iacrincts of praife arid thankfgiving to Gcd for it. Whence learn, i. As it is the duty, fo is it the hearty defire of every believer to welcome Chrift ottering • himfelf as our victorious Mediatour and King: for he is worthy, to whom hofanna (asit is written, Mattb. l\») fliould be lung. 2. Where Chrift cometh, falvation alfo and fpiritual prolperity Cometh, which was promifed before, and iha-dowed forth in types: for, Save now, 1 bcfccch tbee } fend not* projperity, isa promifing prayer. 3. Albeit Chrift hath no need of our prayers, for advancing of his own Kingdome, yet will he have us to pray for his peoples fake, that his Kingdome may come, and will have all believers in teflirr cny of their love to his honour, to draw the chariot of his triumph, that it may ride jprofperbufly, faying, Sdveiww, I befeecb thee, 0 Lord, fend •now prosperity. 4. Chrift is not come unfcnt into the world, but With commiffion to fave his people from their fins 5 He comcth in the*NjmcofibeLor&. 5. Together with Chrift all bleflings do come, which every believer mould heanily acknowledge and proclaim; Btiffcd be be that emctb intbc Name of the Lords 6. The Pricfls and Minifters of the Lord have warrant from the Lord to bleflfe all them that bleffe Jems Chrift 5 for after the acclamation which the people give to Chrift, the Minifters of the Lord pronounce the people, fo many as do heartily receive him as their King, to be blefled: We have bleffed you , (fay they to the people) out of tbeboufeof the Lord. 7.Comfort againft 3II fin and mifery, is brought unto the Church by Chrift, and they who fate in daiknefle, in him have feen a great light, which fliould be acknowledged, as here, CjodUthc Lord voho bathfiemn unto us light. $ As the Minifters of the Lord do preach that believers in Chrift are blefled, fo fliould they fet them all on work, and themfelves alfo with them , to cx-prefle by all means their thankfulnefie to God for the great grace fent by him 1 Bindc the facrifite with eords, even unto tbt homes of the Altar*

Ver. 28. TkoHtftmyGod, and 1 will praife thee * thou art mj Go^ I will exalt thee.

*9-

ig. 0 give thanks tinto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy cndureth for ever.

In the laft place, the Pfalmift, asatypeof Chrift, proclaim-cth the Covenant- between tbt Father and Chrift, and between God and himfelf in Chrift, as a fetled and ratified bargain, and cxhorteth the Church to thankfgiving, as he began: as wc tike this for the fpeech of Chrift triumphing in his Church j Wc learn, i. The Father and Chrift, bcth before he was Incarnate and after, do ftand agreed in the Covenant of Redemption: for Chrift faith here to the Father, Thou art thy God. 2.By vertue of the Covenant cf Redemption between God and and< Chrift the Mediator, all fuffcrings and battels for thee-lecl: are undertaken , and fuch deliverance given from all troubles, and victory'over all enemies is obtained, as the Me-diatour isfatrsficd about it, aiidpraifcth God : Tbcu art my Go.iy and I mttpraifetbets and over again, Tbpuartmy Qod § and I will ex.ilt ibec. 3. By vertue of the Covenant of Redemption G oa\ is the believers God alio, and ought to be piaifed, and more and n ore exalted In our hearts, and outwardly by us p for as Ch.lift callcth God his Father, and olir Father, his God and our God, fo eve"ry one who do believe in him, may 'fay to God," thou art my God , dvd Itfillpraift tbte: tbou art my God, I rtilUxrftthce. 4. The goodncfle of the Lord, in fending Chrift'a Saviour unto us, and the conftancy of his mecy to us b 'him calleth for eVci tailing praife and thanks unto God from us ; 0 givfthan^s Unto the Lord, for t>c is good, for bfc mercy endurttbfor e^cr.

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PSALME

PSALME CXIX.

WE read of no man, who had more troubles and excrcifes of confeience, or greater viciffitude of changes outward and inward, or mere frequent experiences of his owns weakneffe, witlefneffeandfinfulnefle, or of Gods merciful dire-fiion, conlblation and deliverance, then VxviL This man did the Lord fit., by the immediateinrpiration of the Holy ghoft, for the edification of tjie Church, to exprefTe his exercifes, and good deliverances froth them all : and in this Pfalme as in a bundle, he hath collected the fumme of his holy meditations, and of the profitable ufes which he made of the revealed Will of god in Scripture, in all the conditions wherein he was, to teach all the faithful after him, to have the Word of God in fpeciai regard, and to have refpeft unto itj as the only rule whereby they might finde direction, confolation and falvation, however matters went. To this end , for memories fake, he hath filled the Hebrew Alphabet, with twenty two meditations, every one of them beginning with a feveral letter of the Alphabet, and every feftion having eight vcries, beginning with the fame letter, and every verfe almoft of every feftion, under fome cxpreffion, making mention of the Scripture,

The words wherein the Scripture, or revealed Will of £od in Scripture, here is exprefled, is one of thefe ten. i. The UtP or Aoftrine, which fignifieth the Lords Will to be taught of £od, that all men ihould learn it. 2. Statutes which fignifieth, that this revealed Will of God containeth the duties which Cj°d hath appointed and prefcribed for our rule. 3. Treccpts, which fignifieth that this Will of God is impoied by the authority of our fovereign Law-giver The fourth is commands, which fignifieth th at this revealed Will is committed unto our truft to be kept. The fifth, tcftimonies, which fignifieth that this revealed Will of God doth teftifie of our dutie and our doings, whether conformeor not to the Rule, and teftifieth alio what event may be expected by our beleeving or misbelieving, by our obedience or difobedience thereof. 6. $udgmms which fignifieth the

Scripture

Scripture to be Gods judicial decree, ordaining howourword** (Seeds and thoughts fhould be ordered, what (ball be the exeeu-tionof his will anfwerable thereto. 7. 0rule or fpeech, be* caufe the Scripture proccedeth, as it were, from the mouth of God. 8. The Wor&> which (ignifieth Gods expounding his rr.inde to us, as if he were fpeakingunto us. o.The my ofCjod, which fignificth the Lords giving direction for our feveral a&i* ons how we fhould walk, as by lb m^nyfteps unto the King-dome of Heaven. 10. 7$jgkteoufncj[e, which fignineth that the Word of God hath in it, the way how a man (hall be jufti-ficd, to wit, by faith, and how a juftified man fhould approve himfelf to God and man, as juftihed by faith, and that every fonneof wifdom, muft and will juftifie this Word of God> a$ the perfect Rule of righteoufoeffe.

ALEPB.

Inthefiiftfe&ion> hedefcribeth the bleffed men ro be only they who walk in the obedience of faith, as Gods Word pre* fcribeth, vet. l» 2, J. and then he raaketh application of this doftrinc to himfelf, v. 4, $> 6, 7, 8.

Ver.i. TyLeffed are themdefiled in the Veaji Dwho walk i* *hc larv of the LORD.

2. Bleffed arc thej that keep his teftimonies . and that (cekjoitn with the whole he Art.

3> They alfo do no imqmtjz they walk* in hit nayes.

In the defcription of the truly bleffed man; Learn, t . Thit is thefirft leffon for direction of a mans life, to know wherein true bleffedneffe doth ftand, andwhoisthcbleffei nun $ for the beginning of this P/alme with this doctrine Infinuatcth fo much. 2, Albeit every nmn confufedly defireth happinefle,vetk is the propertieof the children of God, effe&ualiy and in ear-fleft to feekrrue happineffe I as the defcription of the bleffed man

M doth

dothftiew. 3. As the Word of God only doth reveal trot hap* pineffc, and the way to it: fo only they are blefled, whochoofe theclearwayof Gods Word, to dired them to bleflednefle, and domakeconfciencefmcerely to pat thisdedrine in pradice: Tttcffcd are the undcfiled in the my, that w4lk in the law of the Lord. 4. God hath teftiried in his Word, how a man (hall be pardoned of bis fins, reconciled to God, and have right unto eternal life, to wit, by faith in the MefiJah Jefus Chrift, and blefled is the man who doth hold this Way fa ft : Blejfcd are they who keep his teftimonies. 5. The true believer of Gods tefti-monies, about the way of true bleffednefs, doth ftudie to have communion with God, and to grow in the fellowfhip ot his

trace finccrely; They feck the Lord with their whole heart. . As the blefled man holds faft the Lords tcftimonies for reconciliation 2nd communion with God, fo he ordereth his convention in the way which God in his Word hath prescribed, efchewing fin, and ftudying to pleafe Gods They alfo do no iniquitie, that is, they are not workers of iniquity, They walk in his wiy, that is, they aime and endeavour to follow the courfe which God doth prefciibe. 7. Albeit there be no man who finnethnot, yet fuch as do flee to Gods grace offered in Chrift for daily pardon, anddofct themfelves to obey Gods diredi-or.5 fet down in his Word, are eftecmed to be no workers of iniquity, but men going homeward to God, howloevcr clogged with infirmities 5 They alfo do m iniquity : How fo ) They walk in bis xcxyes.

Ver, 4, Thou haft commanded®* to k*ep thy Pre*

cepts diligent Ij.

Thisdodrine the PfalmiftappUethtohimfelf, and firft ac-Inowledgeth his obligation totollbwthe diredion of the Lord in the obedience of faith, v. 4- and then he wifheth to have grace to obey, v. 5, 6, 7- And thirdly, cngageth himfelf to follow this courfe by proTnife and prayer, vi 8, from the acknowledgement of his obtigation to obey Gods Word; Lan/ t .1. The doftrinc of faith and obedience fet down in Scripture, is not left to our nrbitrement, but is enjeyned unto us by divine authority; there » a command given forth unto ro to believe inthe&on-of God, and a command cofollow chedwies ef lov-

It

to God and man : Tboubaft commanded m to keep thy Precepts. \. Albeit the obedience or Gods Word had no promileof reward, and albeit felicity were net prrpofed unto us, as the gracious reward of the cbedience of taith, yu the very command it iclf, and the authority of God, fhould be a futtieient motive unco ic: which obligation as we fhould acknowledge, lb ftoulJ we iubjcS our felvcsunto it, and fay, Thou buft command' idut to keep thy Precepts. 3. Howfoever there be great weak-ncfle, even in reconciled foules,and albeit there be lome ftrong reiiques of corrupt narure in them , hindering them ro do as they Would, yet God will have them aiming to keep br Precepts, diligent y making conference of all duties 10 CJod and man, otthe fmaller durus as well as of the greater, ?nd thar on :dl occalions^ in all times, places an: companies , with their beft affe&ion and ftrength; Thou baft commanded m to k cc f tty Precepts dili~ gently.

Ver. 5. 0 that my rxayes were dire tied to keep thj fititutes.

6. Tbtnjhxlllmt be afhamed; when 1 have re~ fpeS unto all thy Commandments

j. 1 will praife thee with uprightnefte of heart : tehen I Jbtll have learned thj righteotu judge : ments,

ThePfalmift wimcth to have price to obey; U Becaufe Co he fhould not he afliamed nor di[appointed of his hepe, v. f* andaUoj fo he fhould be enabled to glorifie and praife God, in ore perfectly, v. 7. Whence tern, "i.The Commandment of Gcdare not grievous to the honeit heirt; for albeit he be unable to do what he fhould, yet it is the defueof his heart to do what is commanded: 0 that my rpixes were dirctftd to Iffcf tbyftatiltes, is his hearty wifn. 2. When we have received the! general direction of Go.is Word, we have need of .the cflLclu-al ducftionofC;ods Spiiit, to apply the Word rightly to oar pavticula-actions : 0 tbut my tvyts were dircttcd y faith he 3. The holieft man is m'oft fcnfible of his coming ffcan in un-derftandmg, 3nd of his weakneft'e to keep Gods commands, and haoft de<Trou> of Gods help, ds this example teacheth vs. 4.N r 3 man fhall ever have eaufe to repent ol afinare e ..ucjvou r c

M 1 Otizj

1^4 PSALME CXIX.

obey Gods revealed will: for howfoever he may fuflfer hard things from men, and be mocked for his (incerity, yet mall he not be di(appointed of his hopes, nor be confounded before C[od: Then fiall I not be ajlwned when 1 have refpeel to all tby Commands ?. Sincerity muft aims at univenal obedience: for to pretend to keep one command, and to be found a mifregarder of other commands,is a matter of fhame,and a ma-.k of unfound-nek: For then frail I not be afhamed, when I hive refpeel to all tby command*. 6. As Gods Word and Commands are all righteous decrees in themfelvcs, and unalterable by men; fo arc they feen to be fuch by thofe who know them beft: Even Gods righteous judgements. 7. Men do praife God uprightly* only in thatmcafure, that they are careful to frame their life to Gods Will : for honour given to God with the mouth, agreeth not with diihonoardone to him in deeds, in a mans life and conver-fation.* / wlUpraife thee with uprigbtneffe of hearty when I have learned tby righteous judgements* 8. Sound praifes of g'od are the fruit of foundnefs in piety and righteoufnefs > and the holieft of Gods fervants are but Scholars and Students in the knowledge and obedience of both: T will praife /bee with nprigbtiijfc of heart> when Ijball have learned thy righteous judgements.

Ver. 8, ImU^eepthjftatmes: 0 for fake me r.ot utterly.

From his engagement to obferve this courfe;Lejr?/ 3 i t Albeit our tefolurionsandpurpofeshavenoftrengthofthemfelves, yet God f equircth of us that we mould with full pu; pofe of heart cleave unto his fervice, and this ccurfe he will blefle, for fodoth this practice teach tis j I will\eep tby (iatutcs$ thai is, I refolve to aime at upright obedience of thy Wo: d: for this is keeping of Gods iiatut.s, to endeavour to cbeytrum. 1. As he who is mott upright in his refolution, is moft diffident of his owne ftren^th to perfonne his refolution: foishc alfo moft earneft with Goa in prayer, to enable him to do as herefolveth, as tliis example dotlneach us j I will keep tby fiatutcs, O for fake me not. 3. Albeit no man can be exempted from temporal deft [tons, whereby his Chiifiian graces may be trkd, and his corruptions mortified , yet ;he belcever may both pray and ex-

ft&y that he fliall not be defected 5 fo as his faith mould bile, # ami hit coiufc of obedience mould be cut off: for fo much doth this prayer promife ; 0 forfa{c me not utterly.

BETH.

In this fcftion, firft he propounds this doctrine ; the Word of God is the only rule;, and eftlctual inftrumentof renewing and fan&ifying of an unrenewed man: and the oniy way r o findethe effic;cyoftheWord, is to ftudie toconrorme a mans minde^ will and actions thereunto, «. i« And then in the next place. to the end he may teach men to make ufeof rhis doctrine by his example 3 he fheweth the fmcerity of his owne endeavour^ by feven evidences in the feven following verfes.

Ver 9. Wherewithal Jhall a jormg man cleanfe his way} bj taking beed thereto aciording to thy Word.

Tn the doctrine about the meanes of regeneration and reformation of lite. Learn, 1. As all men are from the birth polluted with fin, fo mould they early and timoufly be ienfiblc of this evil, and feck for the remedy of the running iil'jes of fin: for he»e it is prefuppofeJj That apung mm Jlmtld clcanfe hit way. 1. Seeing death is uncertain, and fin groweth ftrongcr through cuitome i feeing jufticc i3 :he more provoked, the longer men mall continue in hn> feeing no age is fitter to ferve Si-tan then youth, being enclined to :akeliberty to beheadil ong, felf-willed,and given to defpife grave admonition^and no age luuh more excules to continue in fin ;o its own perdition,thereto e ro age hath more need of remedy from God then youth hath,and this is imported in the queition; If'herewith Jhall a young map. cleanfe bis way? $. Seeing youth is locfe, inconfideracc and unattentivcj feeing the way ot obedience is flippcry, and many by-paths are offered to the wayfaring man \ feeing danger of pe~ riming is greats and many are the enemies of mans lalvation, M i who

who are alwayes Peking whom they may devoure, an<J feeing no reconcilia ion can be made with God, nn rorgive'ncfs of fin can be obtained, no fo'lid lancVification nor ialvation can be had, except the Word or" God be held for the only rule of direction of tai: h and corwerfation: therefore no meatus can be, Toclcinfe thcyoangmans rvjy y but by taking heed thereto, according to thy Word.

Verf. 10. With mj -whole heart have I fought thee : 0 let me not wander from thy Command menti %

After he hith ec down the rule of a young mans Converfion and convention, he offererh himfclf as an example to follow' this rule, and here are the fii ft md fecond evidences or-his fin-cedty in aiming n this way; The hrft'isjthc confeience of his up-ight ieeking of God : and the fecond evidence is his prayer, to be preferved from wandering from the way of Gods obedience. Whence learn , i. The fiaht of what ethers have attained untoj is a great encouragement 'O young Srholars in GoJs ichoole ; for to encourage the young man, the Pfalmift fhew-eth here his own profiting in his ftudy z. Senfiblentfle of a mans own imperfections, fins and dangers, and f< eking in unto God all-fufficient, for relief of fin and mifery, and for a daily more and morenear communion with God > is a mark of finccri-ty in Religion 5 With my whole heart have I fought thee $ The mo'e experience a man hath in the wayes dJFGod* the mere fen-fibie is he of his,own readinefsto wander infenfiblv, by ignorance and unadvertance from the wayes or*God3 but the young ioulditr dare run hazards* ride into his adverfaries camp, and talk with tentarions, being confident he cannot cafily go wong, he is not fo feared, as David here, crying, 0 let me vol wander. 4. To be diffident of our rwnwi: and ftren^th, and to depend upon God, inftantly praying to be kept in, ani recalled from wandrin£, proverh the fincerity of the pur-pofe of holinefle : 0 let mc iwt wavier'from thy Commandments. <. Thegoin^on ofthe bcleever in the courfeof obedience, and his living the lifeof God> is not from what he hath received before, but muft flow from pre lent influence of grace, fufbining what was given before^ and from grace JurnifiVmg frefli fupply

drawn

PSALMECXlX. \67

drawn forth by prayer j as this prayer, 0 la me not wander, doth teftifie.

Vcr. 11. Thy Vbord haze I hid in mine heart •' that J might not Jin againft thee.

The third evidence of his fincere endeavour to cleanfe hisway, by taking heed thereto according to his Word, is, the laying up of the Word by faith in his heart 5 Whence learn, I. It is n )t fafficient to have the Word of God in brain-kncwledge,and con> mon memory, for not wit and memory, bin the heart is the cheft to keep it in : I hid thy Word in my hurt, z Seeing it is irrw poffible to keep fin out of the heart, void of the Word of God, it is neceflary for the fervant of God, to lay up t he Lords Word in his heart by faith and hontft affedion to it: Thy Word baud I bid in my heart, that I Jhould ?wt fin agtinjlibcc $. It is a proofof our fine ere endeavour to profit by t ; e Word of God in thecourfeof lan&ification, to be careful that we let not the Word of God flidefrom us, that we be not poiled of it by feare of men, or force of tentatjon: that we be not deceived by Sa* tans wiles, that we fufrer it not to go by our negligence and forgctfulnefs of it, and that we be careful to approve cur Selves to God, in our love ro the Lords Word, and cftimation of- it, as of a mod precious Jewel, as here we fee* Thy VVo)d have I bid in my heart, that 1 Jhould not fin ugainjl thee.

Vcr. 12. Bleffed art t iW, OLORD: teach me thy fiatutej.

A fourth evidence of hisfinceriry, rnmafcingufe of the Wo vC * of'God, is his blefling^od for ttre knowledge he hath received of it, joyned with prayer for encrcafing the meafure thereof. Whc rtcclearn, 1. It is a mark of fincetiry of cbciience, to be thankful for what meafure we have received, and to be feckrng toencreafe, ^s young birds receive their food and cry for more; Bltffcdart thou, 0 Lord, teach me thy jlatutcr. i. Befide all external teaching, we h.wcneed of inward and effectual teaching from £/od, t0 ma ke knowledge lively and fruitful $ Tea r ,h mc,

M 4 tbj/

thy fiatutes. $.The goodnefsof God, and his readinefs to bleffe more and more, is a ground of encouragement to feek a greater meafuw of his bleffwg j Blejfcd art thou, 0 Lord, teach me thy jlatutes.

Verfc »;. with my lips have I declared *tt the judgements of thy mouth.

A fifth evidence of his fincere endeavour to make ufe of Gods Word, is his care to edifie ethers, and glorihe God, by the knowledge and experience which he had of it. Whence learn* i* The revealed will of God in Scripture fhouldberhe matter of our fpeech and conference with ethers; With my lips have I declared all the judgements of thy mouth. i.TheWord of God in Scripture fhouln be looked upon ns the fentence of the fu-preme Judge, uncontrollable and unalterable by any creature, and whereby men muft judge of all truths and look to be judged by it: for therefore ic is called , The judgement of his mouth. .-$. As the conference or communicating of our knowledge, and our (piritual gifts, is a means of encouragement to feek a greater meaiare: io it is an evidence of the fincerityand fruitfilnefs of what knowledge we have 5 Teach me thyftatutes 3 with my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth.

Ver\ 14. I have rejoyced in the way of thy tefti-monies : as puch as in all riches.

The fixth evidence of his fincere endeavour to con forme his way to Gods Word, is his joy in Gods fcrvice. Whence learn x 1«Delight in Gods fervke and worfhip, is a mark of fincere o-bediencc p c his Word : I have rejoyced in the way of thy ie-ftitno7iies. 2. Spiritual joy in fpiricual ob?efts farre exceedeth anyjoyinwQildlypofl'vffions; j have rejoyced in the way of thy testimonies, more then in all riches. $. It is a mod lure joy, which arifeth from the confeience of practical obedience, and not from contemplation only } lhtvcrijoyced in the way of thy tfftimoni es

Vcr,

Vet 15. I Will meditate in thy Precepts: and have rejpefl unto thy Wayes.

16. Iwill delight my felf in thy ftatutes: 1 mil not forget thy word.

The feventh evidence of his fincefe endeavour to conforme his way unto Gods Wad, is his engagement to fet his heart to-wa* d C ods Word in time to come, and net to reft upon any thing alnady p ' ft ind done. Whence learn, 1 Sincerity of our obedience prefent and paft, is proved bed, by joyning of our hearty resolution and purpofc to go on for time to come: I have rejoyced, I will meditate, 1 will delight in thy ftatutes. 2. It is a profitable meanes to grow in grace, to meditate oa Gods Word 5 I will meditate on thy Precepts. $, Meditation is then fruitful, when in our conversation we have refpefitothc waves of God fet down in his Word, whereupon we h?ve meditated ; / will have refpeft unto thy wayes. 4-In meditation on the Word, and endeavour to make ufe cf it in our life, wcwill eafily wax weary, except we make this courfe our delight 5 J will delight my (elfin thy ftatutes. 5. Meditation will iaile and delectation will wax cold, except the Wo d be treaiured up in a fanftifitd memory: 1 will not forget thy Word. Thus a copy is caft for a young man to cleame his way, and to make his life comfortable*

GIMEL.

In this fe&ion he praycththe Lord for continuance of hi* life, that he may have occafion of further ferv ice, which hedefi-reth may be done by him, and for this end alfo he prayeih, that he may have a deeper infight in the myftetics of Gods Word, V' *7•> 18, And thefetwo petitions he prcfleth by three rea-fons, v. 19, 20,2:. HeprayethaKo for clearing of hi* inno-c.ency,and for removing reproach from him, for other three rea^ fons,v. ih * h l 4-

Vcr*

Ver. 17. *Deal bountifully with thy fervant % that I may live , and keep thy word.

18, Open thou mine eyes, that 1 may behold ponderous things out of thy law.

TFrom the firft two petitions; Learn, 1. As lengthening of life is the good gift of God in it [elf, and no fmall benefit to tbeman who purpofeth to employ it well: fo life may be lawfully prayed for: Veal bountifully with thy fervant, that I may live. 2. As the end of our life mould be, that God may be fer-vedt folifertiouldnotbedefired nor loved, except for that end, fcut willingly laid down, rather then we ihould for fake his command : Deal bountifully with thy fervant , that 1 may live *nd keep *hy Word. $. A faithful fervant ihould count his by-paft fervicerichly rewarded by being employed yermorcin further fervice, as this prayer teacheth : *Deal bountifully with thy fervm, that I my live and fcep tby Word. 4. The whole Word of God is a law,a Canon or rule,whereby wc ihould fcjuare our faith and converfation, for it is here called alfo. Thy law. 5. We by nature are blindc, and cannot fee the light which doth fliine in the Word of God, till he open our eyes to behold it, therefore prayeth he, Open thou mint eyes. 6* xhe Word of God h full of wonders) high and heavenly myfteries, and he who feeth them beft,doth wonder moft: Open ibou mine eyes 3 that 1 may behold xoondrom things out of thy Uw*

Verf. 19. I am a firanger in the earth: hide not thy Commandments from me,

20. My foul break* th for the longing that it hath unto thy judgements at all times.

2r # Thou hafi rebuked the proud that are c fir Jed: which do erre from thjCommandments*

Of the three reafonsof his petition: one is, becauft he is but a

granger here, except for fervice : another is, becaufe he longeth

much to know more of Cods Word.The third is^becaufe he feeth

©ods vengeance following them who ftudie not to ferve God.

0 Whence

PSALME CXIX. 171

Wh ncelearn y i. Albeit the believer live on the earth, yet he ft not at home, fo long as he is on the earth j I am aftrAnger in tbcearth 2. Whatfoever pofllflion a godly man hath in the earth, were it a Kiogdomc, he (hould be a ft; anger for the matter of eft imation o\ or affe ftioti td any thing on earth; / am a •ringer in the eirtb. 5. Acquaintance with the Word of Cod, Ts able to make up all the lofles of the pilgrim, and to lea-fon all his griefs, it is able to fpply the room or* friends and counsellors, to furniih light, joy, ftteng;h, food, armour and •defence, and whatsoever elfe the pilgrim needeth: for the Lords Word (hall either bring all thee pood things to the pilgrim* or lead him to Nod. where he (hall finde them all j lamaftran-gcr in the earth, hide not thy Commandments from me. 4.There is a hiding of the Word of God. when meanes to hear it explained by Preachers, are wanting : and there is a hiding of the comfortable and lively light ot the Spirit, who muft quicken the Word unto us, and from bcth thofe evils may we, and fhould we p~ay to be laved ; Hide not thy Commandments from me. 5. Albeit the godly be the deareft fouls unto God of all men in the world, yet will he exe;cifethem with heart-breaking* efp-cially for fpiritual caufes, that fo he may raife in them an e-ftimationofhisownprefep.ee, and furnifh work in the mean time to their faith; ZMy bean breakctb for the longing which it bath unto thy judgements, 6. It is not every faint and cold wi(h, which maketh a beicever profit in Gods fchool, there muft <be fome heat and earncftnefs in holydcfi: es: and this affetticn, as it may not be cctd, io neither muft it be fleeting, but conftanti My hexrt breadth for tb. longig which it hub at all timeu 7. Thefe are proud men before Godi who are not penitent for their fin, and arc not tub jetted to his obedience; for fo arc .hey heiecalled. 8. The Word of God condemneth the proud, and pronounceth a cu< fc upon them, fo long as they continue p>oud and impenitent ; Thou baft rebuild the proud that arc curfed* 9. To dare to wan der after a maris own will, and go away from the direttio-which God giveih us, is pice indeed, and a bold hazarding where Gcd commandeth to fear: The proud arc from thy Commandments.

* Verf. 22 Remove from mt reproach and contempt : for I have fcpt thy tcftimonies.

23. Trine**alfodtifit and [peak agvrft mt\ but thy fervant did medilau in t hy ft aunts. 24,

24. Thy teftwomcs alfo are my delight : and my councilors.

He prayetbalfo to be cleared in his innocency, and that his reproach may be removed, and giveth three reafons thereof. One is, becaufe indeed he was innocent in the point wherein he was challenged by his enemies > Another, becaufe he had fuftained the wrath of Princes, for his obedience to God : And the third, becaufe he had chofen Gods Word for counsellors and comforters. Whence learn, I. As it is no ftrange exercife for the godly, to be traduced, calumniated and reproached, fo it is no light burden to bear it, but fuch as the godly have caufe to fcek the removal of it 5 Remove from me reproach and c ntempt. 1. A good confeience is a ground of comfort, in the cafe of being reproached, and a ground of confidence 5 to feek of God reliefe from it: Remove contempt, for I bxve kept thy leftimonics. 3. It is not ftrange to fee, not only the rafcal multitude, but alfo Judges and Rulers who mould defend the godly, to be their enemies 5 Princes alfo dUfit, andfpcali againft me. 4. Troubles will try men whether theydofeareGodor men moll, and except the godly take heed to Gods Word, they cannot ftand under the tentations wherewith they may meet; iri?icesdidfpeafi againft me, but thy fervantdid meditate in thy (iatutes. 5.The Word of God is able, not only to uphold a man in his trouble, but alfo to make him rejoyce in his trouble.' Thy teftimonicsare my delight. 6. A King with his cabinet-councel, mall not be fo well furniflied to persecute the innocent, as the godiy Patient {hall be advifed by the Word of God, how to anfwer and cany himfelf in his trouble 5 Thy tejlimonies are my delight anX my eounfeUors.

DAlETH.

Verf. 25. Afy fouiecleaveth unto the daft: quick? en tboH me according to thy word*

In

In this faction, there arc fix petitions with their feveral reafons rmnexed unto thcnvfome of them fee down before* fome of them (ct down after the pecition. The firft petition is for comforr,be-caufc of his heivy condition. Whenee learn, i .Befide the outward trouble from men which the godly oft-times do feci, it pleafeth God to exercife them alfo fomtimes with trouble of mind,imme-diately from his own handjMy foul cleavethunto the ;/«/?. 2. Albeic the Lord fuffer his owne to lie fo long low in their heavy condition of fpirit, as they may feem dead, yet by faith in his Word he kecpeth info much life, as doth furnifh unto thern prayer to God for comfort $ ^uicl^en thou me according to tky Word.

Ver. 26. 1 have declared mj rrajes : and thon heardeft me ; teach me thy flatutes.

Another petition is for direction and power to obey Godf Word becaufe he had laid open before God all his own court, and confeiTed what he knew of his own way. Whence learn 9 1. When we are deferred in the point of confohtion, it is wif-dom to fearch our way, if any thing in it poflibly hath grieved Gods Spirit, and what we finde light, or wrong, or doubtful, ic is ourwifdometo lay it oat before the Lord in fincerity as here, / hive declared my wayes. 1. As we have found audience and comfort after confeflionin former limes, fomay we expect to finde the like again : / have declare I my waves, and thou heardeft mc. 5. The end of our exercife is to make us ftudy to walk with God more holily,( and to feel his direction and guiding bio. e effectually : Teach mc thy ftatutcs.

Verf. 27. Make me to understand the way of thy Precepts: fo Jba/l 1 tali^ of thy rvcnderoiu rvorh^s.

A third petition is, for encreafe of understanding of the my-ftcrics of Gsds Word, that thereby he might cdifie o.hers. Whence learn, 1. Great is our natural blirJixflein Gods matters, and the dfafe is obit-inatf, and therefore the petition for

i; S ht

light is fo much the more to be inGfted in ; Stoake me to *m-derftznd. 2. It is not fufficient to know the meaning of tht~ VVordj except we know alfo the way of prad^Cn^ii prudently ; Make mc to underftand theway of thy Precepts* 3. Defire of knowledge mould not be for fatisfying of curiofity, or for oftentation, or for worldly gaine, but to cdifie our felves and others in wifdome : Sojhall I td\[e of thy mrfe. 4«It is gocd firftto underftand, and then to talk of, and to exprefl'e truth formerly meditated and digefted, as the order of thefc two doth. teach us. 5. The works of Creation, Redemption and Providence, either fet down in Scripture, or obferved in our own experience, do tranfeend our capacity, and cannot but draw admiration from them that lee them well $ Ijball talfe of thy wondrous wr^s.

Ver. 28. My foul meltethfor heavlnefs: flrengtfe en thou me according mto thy Word*

* A fourth petition is for ftrength and confolation, in his felt fainting. Whencelearn* t.The Lordschildren do finde fu~ pel-natural both joyes and forrowes, which the natural man who Wamcth experience of fpiritua! exercife, doth not underftand, as this expreflion fheweth: Vdy foul meltetb forbeavinefs. 2. No natural meanes can be a remedy to afpiritual difeafe, but the Word of God only, being cjuickned by himfelf is the proper cure* Strengthen tboumc, accordingto thy Word. 3. Spiritual execcife doth give unto the Saints the cleared difcerning of their own weakneffe, and need of fupport from C^od ; &ly heart meltetb, ftrength en thou me. 4. VVhatfoever the believer needethj God doth by the Word fupply unto him/as light, that he may not wander:7//e,that he die not: comfort, that he faint not: and ftrengtb> that he fail not: Strengthen me according to thy Word.

Ver. 2p. Remove from me the itaj of lying : and grant me thy law gracioujly.

A fifth petition is^ to be freed from the courfe of finning in general;,

neral, and from the court of lying in particular, that fo he might neither deceive others, nor be deceived himfelf, but directed by Gcds law, which can deceive no man. Whence leArt, 1. All fmful courfes in life or religion, arc all ways of lying, becauie they cannot but deceive a man, wbatfocver pre-tences they carry * Remove from metbe my of lying. 2. As lying in fp-cial, and all finful courts arc liable ,to our nature, and do lie clofe unto us:fo fhouid we pray the more againft them unto God, who only can remove them ; Remove from me the nay of IfiH* 1' Nothing can decipher unto us a lying W3y, nop guard us from it, but Gods law which is the only true way: therefore, faith he, Cjram me thy law. 4« Not only are we encli-ned naturally to lying, but alio we have (0 foully defiled our (elves with the lying way of finning, that it is fo much the more grace to finde any deliverance from it; Grant me thy tawgn* cioufly*

Ver, 30. / have chofen the Kay of truth: tlj judgements have 1 laid before ItlC.

31. / hxvc fluck.HWthj tcftimonies: OLORD f put me not to frame.

32. / will run the way of thy Commandment $ : when thonjbalt enlarge my heart.

A (ix:h petition, is to be Cived from ftame, and comforted', with the reafon thereof: becaufehe bad adhered to the obedience of the Word, and hoped to go on cheai fully in the obedience thereof, if God fhouid be pleafed, by the removal of his feared reproach,to comfort andcnlarge his heart. Whence learn, 1. When a man is about to relolve upon the way of his carriage, in general or particular, many rules and counfels will be fuggcfiS ed and offered unto him, each of them having a pretence of Lome good, fo as a man had need to be well advifed whatcourfe he choofethi and then only doth a man refolve rightly when he choofeththe way of obedience of Gods Word, which cannot deceive him 1 1 b-ive cbofen the my of thy truth. 2. He that would have fpecial direction in any particular trial, muft be a man rcfolved to follow the Rule of Gods Word, in all his wayes in general, for otherwise he may be left without direction*

redion when he hath moft need, except he may fay for the whole courfe of his life, J have cbofert the way of truth * 3. The folid consideration, that Cjo&s Word is Gods decree* may guard a believer againft mens tcrrours and allurements, and fix him in his right choice, as here; Thy judgements 1 have laid before me. 4. As he who hath been moft ftedfaft in trialls, in not pall danger of being driven from Cjfods Word : fo of all men it is greateft fhame for fuch a man in mails to quit his hold; I haveftuck to thy tcftmonies : O Lord, put me not to fhame. 5. In the trial! of our ftedfaft obedience unto God, there is no way to perfevere, except in the fenfe of our weakneffe, and faith of Gods goodneffe, we (hall call on God to fave us, who will not fufftr us to be confounded: O Lord y put me not to fhame. 6. The child of God is fubjed to bondage of fpirit, c-ven after regeneration, in fundry cafes, efpeeally when god bringeth troubles upon him J hideth his comfort from him; and letteth forth appearance of wrath upon him: as the ftraitening of Davids heart here doth import, 7. As when a mans fpirit is in bonds, hardly can he walk in Gods fervice chearfully, fo when God fheweth his countenance and comforteth a man, then all Gods fervice is eafie: I will runne the my of thy commandments , when thou baft enlarged my heart. 8. When the Lord giveth large comfort, and loofeth a mans affedion from the fpiric ©fWidage, he ufeth to give alfo large meafure of ftrength and adivity in his fervice, albeit not fo large as the mans affedion is : I will runne the way of thy commandments, when thou haft enlarged my heart.

HE

HE

Verf. 3 3. Teach me % 0 LORD , the way of thy

flatutes : and I Jhall keep it unto the end,

In this feftioxj there are eight petitions, according to the number of the verfes. "From the fiiitj Learn, 1. The narrow way of Gods obedience is hard to be found, hardly kept, ' and eaiilymiftakcn, except God do teach us daily by his Spirit, what he doth at anytime teach us by his Wcrd, snd therefore we have need again and again to pray> Teach me, 0 Lord, the way of thy flatutes. i.As the Lord recjuiveth our perfeverance in his lei vice , fo our perfeverance dependeth on his continued diredion and afliftneej which :he believer and daily fuppiicant tor grace may pvomife to himklft in Gods Name.* Teach me, 0 Lord) the my of thy ftatutcs, and I Jhall fefy it ** the end.

Verf» 3 4. Give me underfianding , and 1 Jhall keep thy law : yea } 1 /hall obferve it With my Whole heart.

From the fecond petition; Lcar/r 9 1. There is no true wif* dome, except by the knowledge of Gods will revealed in Scripture, andrapplied by him> and this we fhould alwayes pray for i Give me understanding. 2. Where God becometh teacher the difcipiemay promiic obedience; Give me under'{landing, and 1 r Jhall keep thy law. $. As no fervice pleafeth Ged, bur that whichamandefireth, at leaft to do heartily: fo he that purpo feth toperfevere, muft purpofc a Up to ferveGod affectionately i Tea, I Jhall objerve it with my wboiebcart.

Verf. 35. CMake me to go in the path of thy com* wandments: for therein do / delight.

N from

J 78

PS A L ME CXIX.

From the third petition. Learn, 1, Becaufe there are innumerable by-paths from terrors and allurements without, to make us decline from the obedience of God, and we of our ' felvesare both weak and fubject to errors within us, therefore mould we be the more inftant inpiayer, Miafe me to go in the pith of thy commindemcnts. 2. As it is a fairc grace of God to have plcafure and delectation in Go^s fervice, fo he who ti3th gotten of God this grace, may expect alfo direction and ftrength, to go on in the path of Gods obedience ; for therein do I delight, is given as a reafon of his praying Ma^e me to go in the pAth of thy commznimcuts^

Verf. 36. he line my heart unto thy tejlimoniesi and not to covetotifnejfe.

From the fourth petition; Learn, 1. As the moft holy of Gods fervants have in rhem the remainder of their natural itif-nefle and averfneffe from the obedience of Gods Word, Co are they ofall men molt ienlibleof this (lckneffe, and moft inftmc with God, the only Phyfician to heal it: Incline my heart unto thy teftimonies- i. The heart cannot want fome object where-untoitmuft cleave, a man muft love fomcthing: and if the heart be not fct on things fpiritual and heavenly, it will not faile to pitch upon things bafe, and earthly, as here is infinuatcd by oppofition of covctoufneffe to Gods teftimonies* 3. The love of Gods teftimonies, or of obedience to Gods Word, and the love ofbafe objects, astheluft of the eye, the luft of the flefli and the pride of life,are inconfiftent ;for the one is contrary to the other, as here is (hewn : Incline mine heart unto thy teftimmies, and not unto wvctoufneffe.

Verf. 37. Tume away mine eyes from beholding vanity: and quicken thon me in thy way.

From the fifth petition; Leavn> I. Thefinful concupifcence of the heart hath defiled the externa llfenfes, and made them fervants unto it fclfe, except God do heal both the heart and the fenfes, as the petition, Tune woxy mine eyes, doth import. 2. Albeit the corruption of the heart be deadly wounded, yet it jmy loon recover life and ftrength by the external objects 6f

the

the (enfes, if watching over the external man be neglected, asj turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity, doth import- *. * Whatibevcr doth draw away the heart from G ds be ience, is but deceit and folly, wh i foever it may fee n to the beh lder: Turn away mine eyes frombcbolJingvanity. 4. Albeic we know that the outward rlkiremcnts or tinne be nothing but vanity, yet we cannot beware of them, ..01 renounce hem,except the Lord help us, when the bake is offered therefore is it needfull to pray, Turn away mite eye from beholding vanity, f. As God iett'eth a watch over tr.c fences and keepctb he Covenant between the renewed heart, and the eyes ,and doth renew the vigour of the life of gra e> foisthe toward corruption uporefled. and mortified: for the dying of finne, is by the quicken ng of -gracioushabrsin the heart, unto attuall exercife 3 as quicken tbou me in thy Mty y doth import.

Verf. 38* Stablijh thy word unto thy fewant: who is devouted to thy fear.

Inthefixthpetitionj he prayeth for the fruit of Gods pro-mifes, for circumcifing his heart, and purifying of k, nnd that by experience he may be fettled in the fa"ith of the promileSi Whence learn. 1. "Faith purifieth the heart by laying hold ori thepromifesof fan&ification, and urging of God by prayer to the performance of them: Stablijhthy Word urto thy fervant, 2. Albeit the promife be fure in it felfe,and furcunto faith al-fo, yet when experimental performance cometh, the truth of it is much more confirmed to us: Stablifl) thy word unto the fervant. J. Then do we believe the promiies, wjien we take them as made not onely to others, but alfo as made to our felves by name, as this prayer fheweth, StablijI) thy word to me thy fervant, (to wit, the promife of iancti fixation made to believers) and fo t4 me thy fcrvant 4. He who prayeth for the performance of promiies, fhould refolvc to be a fervant, and care full to ob(erve precepts: Stablijh tby word to thy fervant. 3. That man indeed is Gods fervant, how weak foevcr he be in Pra&icffj who is devoted unto Gods fear; for he proveth himfelfc to be a fa-vant by this, 'Bccaufc I am demoted to thy fear.

Verf. 39. Tnm afray my reproach Which I fear : for thj judgements are good

>4 1 Prom

Prom the feventh petition; Learn, i. Asthe godly are fub-je& to finful out-breakings, which may bring reproach on them 3 and on their profelTion: io are they alio jealous of themfdves, as unable to keep themfelves, except Gcd prevent them from giving icandal Turn away my reproach which I fear. z. The way to be kept blameleife, is to feare to oftend , and to pray unto God for prefervation, and to watch over our hearts, as we are taught here. Turn away my reproach which I fear. 3. As the fear of difhonouiingot our profeflion by finne, is a guard on the one hind: foeftimation and love of piefcribed holine{Te 3 as cf a gopi and profitable thing, is a guard agaioft finne on the other hind j Turn away my reproach which I fear, for thy judge* meats arc good.

4c. Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in th) righteoufeffe*

From the eighth petition; Learn, 1. Sincerity loveth to come to the light, and oflevethit felfe to be approved to God; Be-holdylSavc longed after thy precepts. 2. To love and long for fan&ified fubjeclion unto Gals Word, is a proof of (incerityi I have longed after tl^prccepts. 3.A Saint may have a great defire to believe, and obey Gods Word, and yet in his own fenfe feel much deadneffc in his affic&ionsfor a time-J have longed, quicfic?i me. 4. They who bewaile their own deadnefife unto God, mail finde according to his ughteous promifes, life ipirituall recovered and <]ukkzticd: j^i-Jicnmc according to thy rightcoufnefje.

FAU

Verf. 4it Let thy merciescome alfo unto me ,0 LORD : even thy falvation according to thy Word.

42. So [hall I have Wherewith to anfwer him that reproacheth me ; for J truft in thy word.

In this fectioo, he praycth ; firft^ for deliverance out of his

bard

# shard condition , and givcthrcafons for ftrengthening his hope in this prayer, v 4 ',42, and next,he praycth for grace to con-felfe Gods truth openly, till the deliverance come and lie ftremgthens his hope by fix or feven reafbnSj in the reft of the feftion.

From his firft petition, and the reafons of it; Learn* 1. The believer muft lay hold on mercies not feen, and mud not reft till he diuw them forth by prayer; Let thy mercies come alfo unto me, 0 Lord. z. Wfntfoever may remove our (innes, and evill merits, and make way for performance of promifesds mercy in effec"t, and muft be fought no lefie then inward quickning and confolation: Let thy mercies come at fo unto me, $. As perils and hazards of life muft be refolved upon by Gods ferva/it, fo deliverances one after another, and falvation may be funly expected : Let thy merc.es come unto me> even thy falvation* 4.^ It is not any fort of delivery by any meanes, which the fer-vantof God being in ftraitscoth call for, or defire, but fuch a deliverance as God will allow, and be pleafed to give in a holy way.- let thy falvation come. 5. As the Word ofpromifeis the rule of our petition, foisit a pawn of the thing promifcd» and muft be held fafttill the performance come* Let thy falvation come, according to thy word : and this is one reafen or :he petition. 6. As the Lords delivering of his children from the hand of periecutors, doth flop the mouthes of their enemies, who fay of them, that iruy are in a wrong coarfe, and that God is not their friend: fo the believer defireth the Lord to appeare for him, to this very end, that the mouth of the enemy may be flopped: So foall 1 have wherewith to an freer him that reproach-? ctbmc: and this is another realpn of his petition. 7. What-ioevcr be, ou- encouragements in our lufterings, the Word of God received by fai:h-'muft be the ground of our comfort and confidence, or elfe the work will not be found 5 for Itrufl in thy JVord, is the ground oiVavids comfort.

Verf. 43. ssfnd ttke pot the Word of truth utterly out of my month, for ;/ have hoped in thy )tidgeme&ts*,

%4^r So(hAtl"l*keep thy law continually : for ever and e-QtJ. <

*i 3 .;

\%i PSALME CXIX*

45. And I will walks at liberty : for I feel^ thy precepts.

46. / will fpeake °f thy teftimories alfo before Kinase and will not be afhamed.

47. &4nd I will delight my felfe in thy command-fnents which I have lovfd.

48. Mj hands alfo Will I Hfr up unto thy commandments which I have loved: and I will meditate in thy fiatmes.

From the ne*t petition, and the feven reafcns added thereunto; Learn. 1. Iris not firfficient for Cods glory, that we believe the W d of God in our \tt irt, but we muft alio confefle it With our mou hint fie time of fial ; Ta\{C not thy Word out of my mouth. 1. &s G >d mav juftly for our linnes deiea us in the time of trial, when his glory and our duty caileth for -i teftimony; fo we muft in the fent~e of cur ill defcrving, ftec to Gogs grace by prayer, and fay with confidence, Ta\e not thy Word out of Plymouth. 3. If it mall plcafe God, for humbling of us, to dc-fert us in fomepaflage of our trial, yer le us believe in him, and deal wich him not to for ake us altogether in our trial: T?\c not the IVord of tr ah utterly out of my mouth- 4. Where the be-Hefe of Gods executing of his Word of threatening and pemife hath place with Gods children, there is hope that neither mens terror nor allurement fh ill overcome them in their trials; for I have hoped in thy judgement /, isfet down here for the fir it rca-fon of his hope to obtaine his petition. 5. The Lords keeping our heart in faith, and our mouth and outward man in the courfeof confeffion and obedience, is the caufeof our perieve-ranc*; So full I k'-ep thy law continually, for ever and ever : and this is the fecond reason of his petition. 6. As he who departs from confefling of Gods truth, doth caft himfelfein ftraits, in dangers, and bonds: lo he that beareth out the confeffion of the truth, doth walk ns a free-man, the truth doth fet him free > And \ will \vqU;c at liberty • which is the third reafon of his petition* 7. Even the confeienceof honeft endeavour to obey the Word, hath the promife of not being utterly deferced in the day of trial: for I have fought thy precept?, is the fourth reafon pj the petition. 8. The terror of Kings, and of men in power,

is an ordinary hindrance of free confeflion of Cods truth in time of perfecution ; but faith in the truth fuftained in the heart by God, is able to bring forth a confeflion upon all hazards: J will [petti *fthy teftimonicsbejbtctsjngs. 9. He that is refolved to confefle the queftioned truth of ood, whofoevcr do mock at it, fhall not be aihamed of his confeflion, but nuh.r (hall have credit by it: I mil [peak of rl?y teftimonics alfo before Kin s and will not be afbamed : and this is the fifth veaion of the petition. 10. The more men do know the excellency or Gods truth; and do feel the power of Gods hand, lufhining them in die faith and confeflion of b, the more will they love, delight and take plea-furein the Word of the Lord : I will delight my felfe in thy commandments, which I have loved: which is the fixch reafon of his petition. 1 i*He that findeth himfelf bom out in the confeflion of the truth in time of triall. mould in all time after fo much the more as his experience is greater embrace heacily the LorSs^emman ds, as precious gifts, and mould give up him-felfe abfolutely tol>e-governed thereby ; for the lifting up of bk bands to the Lords comyjfaiments , doih import fo much 12. HewhooutoflovetoGodscouimands, hath endured trial by trouble, and hatli overcome tentarions, may comfortably approve him&tf in his forrr^Poving of the Lords commands, and thereby renew, and increafe his love to the obedience of them : fcr after he hath faid, I will lift up my bands to tby commandments, he fheweth that he will do fo, with a ratification, and approbation of his love to them, by adding, tby commandments which I have loved. 15. The experience of the worth of divine truth, which is able to bear out it felfe, and the man alfo who doth confefle it,(hou!d fet a believer on a more and more earned ftudy,to know the minde of God reveiled therein, as the Prophet refolveth to do, And I will meditate hi thy fiatutcs : and this engagement is the Laft reafon of the petition.

ZAIN.

Verf. 9. Remember the Word auto thy Jervant , Upon which thon baft can fed me to hope.

N 4 In

Inthisfe&ion, he prayeth for the performance of the pro-mi c, which he hath believed, and whereof he hath found the fruits already in a good mealure. Whence learn, i. Thepromifes of 'he Gofpel and grace of God, give liberty and confidence to thebelievei to draw neer to God, 'o feek the full perform-ancethereof, as here, T^memher the Word wherein thou haft czu-fedmetobope. i. The genetal offer of the Gofpel, and the pro-miles mnie to the believer, do make promifes to be every believers propriety _. no leiTe then if his n me we e infertcd in the pro-mile, or written in the ible; Remember the Word (pob^eu unto, thy fervant, or promifed to mt. $. God that maketh the offer of the Wo d, is li • who alfo worketh faiih in the believe., and moveth him to apply it and truit in irj the acknowledging whereof as it is Gods glory, fo is it the believers profit: 3(p-member the Word upon vphch thou haft caufed me to hope : for faith and hope is not of our felves, it is the gift of God.

Ver. «}o. This is my comfort in my affliflion : for thy Word hath quickened me m

51. 7he proud have had me greatly in derifion, yet have I not declined from thy LaW.

52./ remembred thy judgements ofold % 0 LO RDi (ind have comforted my felfe*

5 3. Horror hath taken hold upon me, becaufe of the wicked that for fake thy Law.

54, Thy (latutes have been my fengs, in the hcufe of my pilgrimage.

55.. J have remembred thy Name, 0 LO R1) } in the night: and have kept thy Law.

5 6. ThU I had, becattfe 1 kept thy precepts.

The fruits which he hath found already by his faith in the . Word, are feven, all in order fet down in thereltof the verfes of this (eelion. Whence Learn, 1. Faith and hope ifr God do *\or exempt Goes children from troubles,but do comfort them in their trouble, fo as all other confoLtions ire naught in companion > This it my ccvfoUtion in my -affliftiw. 2. When the

believer

believer is damped with trouble, and fometime 3$ it were dead in regard of fpidtuai operations, motions and affections* faith draweth life againe out of the Word of promife ; for tby Word bath quickened me: and this is the firft fruit of faith in Gods Word. 3. Albeit impenitent, graceleffe men do mock grace, do mock faith ana obedience in the godly.; and ( in Satans drift and theirs ) to the intent they may make the godly forfakc Gods law, yet faith in the Word isable to beat thebclieverup againft deribon.as experience fheweth : The proud have had me greatly in dcrifion, yet have I not declined from tby Law: and this isthe iecond felt fruit of his faith* 4. It is good to have a number of examples of Gods dealing with his fervants, and with his ad-verfaiics,laid upintheftorehoufe of .a fructified memory, that th reby faith may be il/engihened in the d-y of affliction : for fo are wc here taught, I rcmembred tby j dgements of old , O Lord. 5. Fa kh doth d* aw comfort out of the execution of Gods Word of promiie, and of threatening 3lfo, in former times -1 rcmembred tby judgements of old, 0 Lord, and wm comforted*, and thisisthethiid (tit fruit of his faith. 6. It is an evidence: effinceruy m Gods fervice, to fee wrath and judgement in the face of finne, and to be diverted fom v finning by the fight of Goiis judgement threatened and executed upnn the wick.d; borrow batb xi\{?.n bold upon me, becaufe of the wicked that for* fake tby lave : and this is the fourth tit fruit of his faith, 7. A s £>ods children are in this wc l;i Grangers and pilgrims in affection, and dealt with as (bangers) whee they live, fo alfo are they oft-times banifhed from their native Countrey: Tby fta-tutes have been my fong in the houfe of my pilgrimage. 8. Wheresoever the Ixlkver is, and whatsoever bz his outward conditi-on,the Word of God receive . by fai:h, (hall bear him company, and furnifh him with marc of comfort and rejoycing: Tby ftatntes have been my fong in tbc hou e of my pilgrimage: and this is the fifth felt fruit of his faith. 9. The knowledge and deepimprcffionortheMajeftyof God, as he reveale hhimfelfe in hiswoiks, and Wcrd, is apowerfull meanes to ftrengrhen us in the obedience or faith; I have remmbredthy Name. 0 Lord y and have kept tby Law : and this is the fixth felt fruit of his faith 10. Well fpent time in fecret when wcare folitaryj (hall be rewarded openly by a good carriage in fociety and company: 1 rcmembred tby Name inthe night, 1 have kept tby law. 11. Ic is no final! benefit to fee and cbierve what good we have had by our obedience to QoJ, and how ^race hath been rewarded by

grace;

grace in our pcrfons: This I hud ( to wit,allthc former fruits,,) bccaufc 1 kept thy precepts: and this is the feventn felt fruit of faith, that a man may enjoy the approbation and comfort of the fruits of faith. i>. Thofeare reckoned keepers of Gods precepts, not who have no finne in them, but who ftudy to be free of linne, and to do Gods will: This I hii y becaufe I ^ept thy pre <-etpts. 13. It is wiidome to reckon what good we have by faith an God, and to endeavour to plea(e him, rather then to reckon our temporary and light afflidrons in our feivice, as here wc are taught.

CHETH.

Verf. 57. Thou art my portion > 0 LORD, lhaie faid, that I would keep thy Words.

58. 1 intreatedthy favour with my whole he Art, be mercifull unto me according to thy Word.

59. / thought on my wajes: and turned my feet unto thy tefiimonies.

do. 1 made hafle, and delayednot to keep thy Com-mandments.

61. The bands of the wicked have robbed me I but J have not forgotten thy LaVv.

6l. At midnight I Will rife to$tve thanks unto thee, kecaufe of thy righteous judgements.

63* 1 am a companion of all them that fear thee; and of them that keep thy precepts.

64. The earth, 0 LORD,is full of thy mercy ; teach me thy ftatutes*

In this feftion he laboureth to confirme his fairh, and to comfort himfclfe in the certainty of his regeneration, by eight properties of a found believer, or eight marks of a new creature. The fit ft whereof is ; bis choofingof God for his portion.

Whence

Whence kirn, 1* Such as God hath chofen and effectually cal-cy ,et gi ace to make God their choice* their delight, md portion: and fuch as hare chofen • cd for their portion, hive n vidence of their regeneration and ele&ion alitor here IDavia fnakctfa this a mark of his regeneration : Thou art my portion. 0 Lord. 1. It is another mark of regeneration, after D*lievirig in God,and choofing of him for our portion, to re-folve 10 brin^ out the fruirs of faith in new obedience, as David did , I hxve [aid that I will k ec P % words. $. As it is ufaall for Go s children, now and then becaufe of finne falling out, to be exe- eifed with the fen e of Gods difpleafurc: fo it is a mark of a new creature, not ro lie ftupid and fenilefle under this ex-ercife. bu to deal with God earneftly, for reftoring thefenfeof reconciliation^ ?nd giving new experience of his mercy, as the Pialiniftdid ; I intreatedtby favour with my whole heart: and this is the thrd evidence of a new oeaturc. 4. The penitent believe; hath the Word of grace, and Covenant of God, for his affurance wj be heard when he feeketh mercy: Be mercifutt to me according to thy Word. 5. The fearching in what condition we are in arid examination of our wayes according to the Word* and renewing ofrepencancewhh an endeavour of amendment, is a fourth mark of a new creature: I thought on my wayes, and turned my feet unto thy tcftimo?iics. 6. When we do fee our fin, wt arc naturally flow to amend our doings, but the fooner we turne us to the way of Gods obedience, we fpeed the better, and the more fpeedy the reforming of our life be* the more found mark is it of a* ew creature: I made bafte, and delayed not to keep thy commandments. 7. Enduring of perfection, and fpoil-ingof our goods, for adhering to Gods Word, without forfaking of our caufe, is a fifth mark of a new creature : The bands of the wkkcdh<xverobbedmc>but I have not forgotten thy law. 8 As it is the lor of Gods children who refolve to be godly to fufter perfecution, and to be forced either to lofe their temporal goods, orelfe to lote agoodcaufe,and a good confcicnce: io it is the wifdeme of the godly, to remember what the Lords Word re-cjuireth of us, and fpeaketh unto us, and this frail comfort our confcicnce more, then the lone of things temporal can trouble ourmindes: The bands of the wicked robbed me> but 1 have not forgotten thy Law 9. A (ixth mark of a new creature, is to be fofarre from f etting under hard exercife, as to thank God in fecret chearfuliy for his gracious Word, and for all the paflagea of his providence^ where none feeth us> and where there is no

hazard

hazard of oftenration : tAt midnight I will rife to give thanks I unto tbee } becaufe cf thy righteous judgement?, jo. A feventh I mark of a renewed creature , is , to aifociate our felves, and keep I communion with fuch as are truly gracious, and do fear God I indeed, as wc are able to difcerne them : I am a compinion of all tbcm that fear tbce. it. The fear of God is evidenced by believing and obeying the doctrine and direction of the Scripture, and no other waves: Jam a companion of all them that fear theCy and of them tbat keep thy precepts, n, The eighth mark of a new creature, is not to reft in any meafure of renovation, but earneftly to deal with God tor the encveafe of faving knowledge, and fruit full obedience of it: tor. Teach me thy fta-tutes, is the prayer of the man of God, in whom all the former marks are found. 13. As the whole creatures are witnefles of Gods bounty to man, and partakers of that bounty themfelves: fo are they pawnes of Gods pleafure to beftow upon his fervants greater gifts.then theie, even the encre3'fe of fanctification, in further illumination of minde and reformation of life: for this the Pfalmift ufeth for an argument, to be more and more fancti-fied y Tbi whole earth U full of thy bounty , 0 Lordy teach me thy flaiuPes.

TETH.

Ver. 65. "Thou haft dealt wll ulth thy fervant* 0 LORD, according unto thy vcord.

Tn this fecit ion, he gives eight marks of a thankful 1 foal delivered from heavy trouble for a time. The fir ft mark is his hearty acknowledgement of Gods goodnefie toward him elf. Whence leamy 1. There is a time to acknowledge mercies received, as well as to pray for good things not as yet received: and as it is tfiedutyofa believer to pray in his need, fo it is the duty of the thankfull man toconfeffe what he hath received for fupplying of his neei : Thou haft dealt well with thy fcrvant 1. The Lord will fo performs his promiic, as he (hall make the beli eVing fupplicant witnefie of his fidelity : Thou baft dealt well with thy favm;accQrdinztQtbymrL 3. As gifts prayed for, fo aljo

gift*

gifts received ou^ht <obe examined, whether they be given ro us, as to (irvants of God, and according to the promites made to'hisfcrvants in the Word, or not: otherwife a man can neither make right ufc of them, nor be thankfull for them, as the Pfalmift doth here, who faith; Thou baft dealt well with thj [er-vant according to thy word.

Verf. 66. Teach me good judgement and knowledge : for I have believed thy Command* ments .

Another work of his thankfulneffe, is his fceking the increafe of wifdomc and difaction , for enabling of him unto better fer-vice of God in time to come. Whence learn, i. Befide the knowledge of the general rule of Gods will, it is neceflary to have the gift ofdifcretion, to know our duty, when particulars cloathed with circumftances, come to be tried by the rule: and this the thankfull man mould .pray for; Teach me good judgc-man arid knowledge, z. He that would be directed in the faith and obedience of Gods Word in particular , ought to be deare in general of his eftimation and belief of all Gods Word in Scripture. Teach me good judgment) ( faith he J for I have be" licved thy commandments.

Ver. 61. Tiefare 1 was tjflitled,! went a firay : but now have 1 kept thy word.

The third mark of Uis thaskfulnefle is, his acknowledgement of the wifdome and goodnefle of God, manifefted in, and wrought by afflicling of him. Whence learn 3 1. So perverfe are we by nature,as we are the wcrfe oft-times by proiperity : Be* fore I wot afflificd I went aftray. 1. When profperity is abu-fed, it is Gods mercy to us to vifo us with the rod of affliction , and by it to drive us to make better ufe of his Word s But now have I kept thy word. 3. When affliction is fan&ified and found in the fruits thereof, it is no leife fweec when it is pail, then it was bitter when it was prefent^as the companion of times lice cloth ihew.

Verf. 68.

Ver # 68, Thou art good, avd doefl good ; teach methjftatxtcs.

The fourth mark of his thankfulnefs, now being comforted ^fter trouble is, his acknowledgement of the goodneik of •. ods nature and working, and his drawing from this fountain more fandification. Ifbcncelearn, i. As goodntffeis Gods nature^ and good is his woik: io it is the thankful mans part to ob-ferve it, acknowledge it,and heartily to praife him for it,e'pedal-ly when he Is called unto this by late favours, as the Ptalmift doth here: Thou art good, and doe ft good. z. When the good-nefs of God is folidly apprehended, k furnifheth ground of great confidence to leek further fruits thereof towards us.- as here the Pialmiftdoth. $. Or all the fruits of Gods goodnefs, which a thank tul man can crave to himfelf, none is fitter to be fought, then the growth of the grace of ian&ification : as here, Tcacbmcthyftauacs.

Verf. 69. The proud have forged a lie againfi me : but / mil f^eep thy Precepts With mj whoh heart.

A fifth mark of a thankful man comforted, is his renewed pur-pole not to fin, for fear of the malice or craft of any persecutors. Whence learn ^ 1. Befide violence and crueltie we (hall finde lies and falfe calumnies to be the weapons of the wicked againft the godly 5 The proud have forged a lit: againft me. 2.The {landers and calumnies of the wicked againit the godly, arefo trimmed and dreiTed up with much artifice, as if they werecaft in a moulds Theproudbave forged a lie againft me. 3. The only way of refitting and overcoming this tcntation, is by the fin-cere adhering to God in the faith and obedience of his Word J But I will keep thy Treccpts with my whole heart.

Ver. 70. Their bean tiatfet as greafe: but lde* light in thy law.

The

Thefxth mark of athai.kful man comforted after affliction *nd perfection, i< hisdtfpifing the profperity of the wicked, in comparifon of the benefit of a gocd conscience, and joy in (jod* Whence leant, \ .It is the profperity of the proud, which encou-rageththem to pcrfecutc the godly, yea, their profperity fo bc-nummeth their confcicnccs, that they may not fear to pei fecute: Their heart is tofatM grct/c 2. As a benummed and feared con-fcience is a fin annexed to the fin of perfecution, fo is it nlfothc plague of God upon them ordinarily,that they Should not repent. Their heart is o/s fat as grcafe. $. The comfort of a good con-fcience>and the comfort of delighting in the obedience of faith, is a greater welfare to the godly then profperity, how great foever it can be unto the wicked, and fo the godly need not envie the proud and p. ofperous man.- Their heart U fat at greafe, but I de* light in thy law.

Ver, 7 r. It is good for me that 1 have been fifflift* ed, that J might learn thy ftattttes.

The feventh mark of a thankful minde comforted after affliction, is his eftimation that holinefs wrought by affliction bringethmcre plcafure and gain, then affliction did bring with it lofteorpain* Whence learn, 1. The godly have as evil natures as the wicked have, which cannot be fubducd and beaten down, except by affliction, as 3ppeareth by this experience of the Pfalmift. 2. Albeit no affliction for the prefent be pleafantj-vet aftcvward it provcrh medicine to the godly, whole wifdom \t is to obierve all the advantages which come thereby, as the PfaU mi ft doth here : It is good for me that I was afflicted. 3. Profiting in fanctitication, is more then may recompense allthetrou^ ble which we are put unto in learning of it .• It is goad for tiK that I have been afflicted, that 1 wight learn thy [iatutes.

■Ver. 72. The Latv of thy mouthis better unto me?

then thoujands of gold andjifoer.

The eighth mark of his thankful minde comforted after affliction, is his preferring the advantage of the written Word of

God

God to all riches. IVbcnce turn, i. No affection to the Word of God can be in a man, till it be efteemed by him, as it is in? deed, the Word of Gods mouth, as it were breathed our by himfelf fpeaking it: for it is called here, The law of thy mouth, to direct Mii in'orcc our obedience. 2. The fpiiicual advantage which a holy man doth make of Gots Word, is more worth then all earthly riches: Tbclzrv of thy mouth is better Mir to me then thou funds of gold andfdver.

?OD.

Ver. 73, Thy hands have made me and fafbioned me : give me understanding that I may learn thy Cem-mandments.

74. They thatfeare thee will be glad when they fee me : becauje I have hoped in thy word.

In this fection is fet down the example of the right carriage of a believer 3 brought out of one calamity, and caft intoano-the:*: his good behaviour conilfteth in thefe fix duties. The firfth. to guiui well agaxnft fin,, by feeking wifdome {rom God to bear well thetentacion of new trouble. Whence learn, *. Albeit nothingcan fatisfie misbelief, yet true faith will make life of rhemoft common benefit of Creation to ftrengthen it lelf 5 Thine hands have made me an:, fafiinned me. z.It is a good way of reafoning with God, to ask another gift, becaufewe have received one : and becaufe he hath given common benefits, to ask thu he would give us alio laving graces : Thy hands have made me and fafhioned me. give me underftanding that I may learn thy Commandments. 3. Seeing God is our Creator and the end of our Creation is toferve God, we may confidently aske whatfoever grace may enable us to ferve him, as the Pfalmifts eximpledoth teach lis. 4. As the afflicted Petitioner for grace -toobey Gods Commandments, is ftrengthened in his faith, by the hope of the glory which may come unto God by his holy

bcha-

.

behaviour* fo alfo is he ftrengthened in his prayer, by the hope •of the edification, which others the Lords children may have by beholding his carriage;!^ that fearc thee, will be glad when they fee me. ?. It mould be the joy of all believers, to fee one of their number fuftained, and borne out in their fuffe<ing$; for in the proof and example of one fufferer, a p.iwne 15 given to all the reft, that God will help them in the like cafe: They that fare thte will begad when they fee me. 6.The Lord fhall fowoikfor the man that hopes in his Word that both he and others fhall have caufe to be glad, for the grace of faith and hope beftowed on him ; They full be glad when they fee me, becaufc J hoped in thy word.

Ver. 75. / fyow, 0 ^ORD, that thy judgements arc right t and thac thou in faithfulnefs haft ajjlifted mi*

The fecond duty of the fufrering belecver, is to juftifie God in afflicting of him. whence learn, 1. Albeit we fee not the particular reafons of Godsdifpenfation, yet the belief of the Lords righteoufneffe and wifdome fliould quiet our mindes from all murmuring and difpurtion, and fufpicion about the Lords doing, as here is done yIk no7V > 0 Lord, that thy judgements are right. 2.tt is not fufficie>\t that we juftifie God, and forbear to murmure againft Gods afflicting of ttij but we mult believe that God out of love dothifflict us, by way of performing of his Covenant unto us J J know that thou jn thy faith-fulnefs ba't afflifted me.

Ver. 75. L?t % I pray thee, thy merciful hindnefs befoYMjcomforttMccydingto thy fVord unto thy Jtr-vant.

77i Let thy tender mercies come nnto me^ that 1 mvy live : for thy lotto is my delight.

■ The third duty of the afflifted fervant of God, is to feek comfort from God, according to his promife. Whence learn, j. Albeit we know that our fins haw drawn on out affliction, yet thar

Q mx$t

muft not hinder us to (cek comfort from God in that affliction; and nothing can comfort the afflicted, except the fenfeof Gods kindnelfe and mercy to him : La, I pray tbee, thy merciful fondue fje be for my comfort. 2. Albeit full remedy be promifed in the Word, and albeit falve for every fere be treafurcd up there, yet the Tweet effed 0/ thefe promileswe cannot have, without dealing wi;hGod by prayer, to apply in particular, what faith in the Word beV:eveth in general: Lei thy merciful liindnefj'e be for my comfort according to thy Word. g. To the end we may have the benefit of the promife, it is wifdome to thruft in our felves among thofe to whom the promifeis made, under one title or other as we can,and to put our name in Gods Writ :Let comfort come into me, according to thy Word to thy fervant: that is 5 the Word of Promife which is made to fervants, and fo to me, and fo let it come to me. 4. The fenfe of Gods tender mercy to the beleever, is the very life of the belecver, it is death to him to want it: Let thy tender mercies come mto me y that I may live. ?. As we love the fenfe of Gods mercy, fo muft we love C/ods Word, and ftudie the obedience of faith, and .he who hath the one, may pray and hope for the other 5 Let thy tender mercies come unto me, for thy law is my delight.

Yet.jS-Letthe profit be afbamed, for they dealt fewer fly with me without a caufe: but I will meditate in thj Precepts.

The fourth duty of the afflicted fervant of C/od, efpccially by p:rf:cution,is to pray againft his cnemies,and then to go on in his way of ferving God; VVhencelearn , 1, Proud, gracelefle, impenitent men, will not prove friends to the godly, but unreafon* ab*e perfecutors of them, as they findeoccafian : The proud have dealt pcrverfly n ith me without a caufe* 2. When the proud and wicked in the world are our party, God will be a friend to us who do feek for relief from him,and will difappoint them of their plots againft us: Let the proud be afhamed, for they dealtpervcrfly with me without a caufe. ^.Perfecution by the wicked maketh andfhould make the godly ftudie to underfhnd the Word of God more clearly and fully then before: Let the proud be afaa-med, but I will meditate in thy Precepts. 4. The beft defence againft perfeciuionj is to ftand faft in a good uufe^and ftudie o-

bedience

bedience to £/ods Wordj for hy this meanes the afflicted dd remain Gods feivants,and the Lord is engaged to do foe them as his fervants 3 for this is the couife the Pia:mift taketh.

Ver. 79. Letthofe that feare thee turnennts mt\ andthofe that have knorcn thy te(H?nonies.

The fifth duty of the afflicted and ptrfecured is, to-labour to know friendship and fellowfliip with others who aregodIy 3 which may both (lengthen themfelves and others. Whence lurn y l.Asic (hould not feem ftrange unto us if he godly foriakc our fellow (hip when wearepcrfecuted, feeing God doth fuffer this for the humbling, and trying, and turning us to believe in God alone; fo it is our duty to recover them who have delected us, and to draw them in unto us again, and to pray to God to further us: Let thofe thAt fenrethee"turvc unto rrie y doth teach all this. 1. As Cjod when he pleafeth, diverts the comfort of the fellowfhip of godly friends, fohecan bring thembackag^n to us, as the prayer doth import. $. Only they' who with fenre to offend God, have the found knowledge of C^ods Word, are fie comforters and ftrengtheners of the godly under perfecution 5 Let thofe xhitjure tbec, tune unto me,and thofetbat keef thy tefti-monies.

Vcr. 80. Let my heart be found in thy fiatutes i that 1 be not afbamed.

The fixth duty of the afflicted, is to ltudie above all things, to be fii cere in his carriage, and in his defence ol a good v Uprightly aiming to do what is right rightly, and for the right ends. Whence learn- 1. Mi nde and heart inthebeft men, are fo perverted by natural corruption, (which h not fully abolished in any) that not mans tree will, but Gods free grace rnuft help this evil : lor this prayer, Let my hexrt be found in thy fixtutes* doth import fo much. 1 . S >un.: knowledge of the ftaiUtes, and found affection toward the figures, and a found fmr'pofe in the following of rheftatutes. mufi be joyncd together in the Lords Martyrs; Let my kcxrt be found in thy Jfotutcs. 5. As the un-found hea r will not bear out the good caufe, nor keep up with the godly in their gocd way, but will fall off to his own (name: fo the upright man fleeing unto God in the fe^r of hisowne weaknetfe, and fufpicion of the deceit of his own heart, '(hall be pre ferved from fhame, as this prayer importeth: Let my hurt be [on Jin tbyfttweS) tb*t Ibenot afhxmtd.

CAPH.

Inthisfedionismewenhowdecp the perfected fervant of God may! draw in his afflidion before God give him comforr, in the firft foure verfes thereof/and how he fhould behave him-ielf in that fad condition, in the laft foure.

Verf. 8r. My foufe faintetb for ttyfafaation: but I hope in thy word-

82. Mine eyes faile for thy word: faying, When wilt thou comfort me ?

83. For lam become like a bottle in the fmoakji yet do I not forget thy ftattttes.

84. liotv many are the dayes of thy fervant ? when wilt thon execute judgement on them that per* fecute me ?

As for the firft, there are foure degrees of his deepneflein di-ftreffe, to wit, fainting of faith, alrncft failing; of hope, failing of the body, and longing for death; Whence learn, 1. It is not ft range to fee God breaking the heart of his own childe with afflidion, even when he is fuftering perfection, that fo his faith may-be tried and trained unto more ftrength / My foule faintetb. z* Abeleever in God, how afflicted foever he be, Ateketh not to be delivered, but in a way allowed of God $ My foul faintetb for tby falvation: or, till thou deliver me in thy good way. 3. The ftrength of the faith of the ftrongeft of Gods Servants will prove but (mall, when afflidion is great, and Gods help is delayed : My foule faintetb for thy falvatun. 4. Albeit the faith of the Lords children feem to faint, yet it cannot die, it cannot faile altogether: for it looketh to the Word, and thereby gathereth ftrength and hope $ My foule faintetb, but I hope in'tby Word* 5. Albeit hope keepeth the eye of the minde fo fixed upon thepromife, as it is ever looking for deliverance, yet

long

long delay of help makth hope weak, and ready to faint 5 Mine • eyes fdie for thy word. 6. Hope , and patience, and complaining unto God may ftand altogether, but they mull never be fevered from prayer; Mine cycsfoilc for thy wordy faying, When wilt thou comfort met 7. Longer cxcrcifc by trouble may affect the bodie of Gods deareft children, foas wafting leannefs may befeen on it: I am become as a s^in-bottle dried in the fmoak. 8.Notrouble mould drive us tofin, but we fliould choofe rather to pine away in affliction, then to be freed from it with fin; lam become Itfce a bottle in thef/mfc: yet 1 do not forget thy ftatntcs. 9. It is good in time of perfection or affliction whatfoevcr, to have an eye both on the Promifes, and on the Precepts; for the looking to the Promife doth encourage to hope, and the eyeing of the Precepts doth prove the hope to be found: ThePfalmift hoped inthe word, v. 8r. and v. 8$. He forgatc not the ftatutes* 10. Albeit long affliction be able to make the believer weary of life, and to defire to die, yec muft he yield unto God, to live fo long as hepleafeth; How many arethedayesofthyfervant? n. The delivery of the perfected is ordinarily pyned with the puniiliment of the perfecutors, and the afflicted muft wait till their cup be full j When wilt thou execute judgement on them thxt per feme me ?

Vef( 85. 7 he proud have digged fits for me: which arc not after thy la$v.

86. t/111 thy Commandments are faithful: they perfecute me wrongfully • help thou me.

87. They had almoft confumed me upon earth: but lforfooknotthy Precepts.

8S. jQu'icken me after thy loving kmdnefte : fo [ball 1 keep the teftimonfofthy mouth.

He fhewcth yet further how he carried himfclf in this condition : he layeth out his enemies carriage before God, v. 8y, 86. and his owneftedfaftneffe in extream danger, v. 87. and prayeth for comfort, that he may in his trial beareout, v. 88. Whence learn, 1. The coude of perfecutors, is full of traps and fnares, whereby they ftudie to overtake the godly, without fear of (inning in fo doing; The proud have digged pits for me } whick O 3 arsr

r<>S PSALME CX!X;

m not after thy im. z. As the common quarrel of the wicked againft the godly, is for keeping of Gods commands: fothe/ common comfort of the-godly is, that they have a good caufe to defend; All thy Qomriwidments arc'-faithful, they per-> jecu f e me wrongfully. $. The worfe the caufe 3nd courfe i >, which our adverfaries do follow j the - more hopeful may we be to oe aelped of God : They perfecute me wrongfully> help thou, mc* 4-'It is a good meanes of courage, and comfort, and ftrerigth in persecution, to lay the carriage, and caufe of us, and of our advertaries before owr eyes, and compare them together by the Word; and then lay them forth before 1 God, as the Pfrtmift dot' here. { Albeit the godly : may run the Imard of l.cfins* all things they have intfieearth, yetthat'is. the height of their hazard in defence oFGods truth, for what they have in Heaven rannot be taken from them / They-baidmoft'confumelmc upon cm th. 6. No fmard of what foe ver we-have in the world, lite, lands, goods, friend vriberty, or what el fc, can warrant a man to depart from the obedience of Gods command, controverted between the perftcirtor and him V^J 1 W -dlmpft confilmed me upon emh, Buflforfoofi net thy V*,'CQCps* 7. Through theinfirmity of theflcfh, the feeling of the comforts of Religion, and the freedomedf following Gods fetvice chcarfully, may be interrupted, as quicken me, here doth import. 8. What-foevef meafureoi'lpirituallife, {Length or,comfort can be abated and diminiflled by afflicli n, the,renewed fenfeof Gpds love and friendship to us, (which we (houtevfeek after always,) caneality reftorcand recompenfe it; Quicken me after thy loving fiind?iefs } foJhallIk^p the teftimo?ues of thy mouth*

LAMED.

In this fection, heihewetb, Gift, how he was comforted under perfecution« by faith in Gods Word ; and to this end he coi: mends the worth of the Word of God y or of the Scripture, for fourereafons : Thcfirft is, becaufe of the ftability of it in heaven,zf. 89, The next, for the durable ufefulnefs of it ine-yery age of the Church, v. 90. The third is, becaufe by Gods VVord the earth is eftabUihedj 1^90,91, The fourth is, he-

caufe

caufeof his own experience of comfort and flrength by it in ■his affliction, v. 92. < And in the next part, he expreffrth his thankfulneffe in the reft of the verfes of this fectton.

Ver, 89. For ever>0 LORD, thy Cordisfetledin heaven.

90. Thyfaithfulneffeis unto all generations: thou haft eftablifhed the earth,and it abideth.

91. They continue this d*y according to thine ordi -nances : for all are thy fervants.

02. Vnleffe thy law b ad been my delight t IJhould then haveperifhedin mine ajfltttion.

In his fetcing down his comfort, which he had by faith in the Word, and whateftimatio'n he had of the Scripture j Let us learn, .I.God hath given unrous his Word to bear up our faiths in every hardeft conditioned it is a fure rock which wil not fail m, whatfoever appear, or howfoever we do faile or faint: For e-ver^OLord) thy wordueftablijhed. 2. Albeit, the effect of Gods Word doth not appear fomerime, but is over-clouded with trouble and tentations^yet it is-fare and fixed.byGods decree unalterable in heaven, and cannot want the effect in due time; For ever, O Lordjby word is fetledin heaven. $ ,The {lability of the Lords Word depends upon the ftabiJity of Gods truth and faithful'nefs, which becaufeht is abfolutely unchangable,huWord is To alfo; Thyfaithfulnefs U unto all generations .4.Thz mith of God is not alwayes hid up in heaven, but in all generations the truth cf the Word, and the foithfulrrefs of God who hathfpoken it, is from . age to age made manifeft among men; Thy faith fulnefs is unto aU generations. ?. The ft.ibility of the earth is nothing but the effect of Gods Word, and the liability of the earth, and frame of the world, is a pa/vneof the liability of Gods Word; Thou baft eftablijheitbc earth, and it abideibi 6, As heaven and earth do continue in their motion and flation, and do ferye God as his Word hath ordained , fo fhould we do : They continue this day according to thy Ordinances, for all arc thy fervants.7 . Affliction draweth forth the worth of C/ods Word, which other-wife couid not be known, and lets it be feen, that the Word of God is 3ble to fave a finking man in tribulation; Unleffe thy law fadbeen my delight, I fhould then have perijhed in rry affliction,

O 4 8.The

8. The Word of God, being received by faith, is able not only to fave the believer f.om delperation in trouble, but alio to m?ke i him rejoice, as he who is feeding on delicates, as experience hath proved ; linlcffe thy law bad been my delijn, IJhouldbxve pcrijb** cd in mine zfjiiclion.

Ver. 93. / mil never forget thy Precepts : for mth them thou haft qmck*ned me.

94, 1 am thine y fave me : for 1 have fought thy Precepts.

95. The vpicfyh have waited for me to dejlroy me : but I mil confder thy teflimonies*

9*. 1 have feenan end of all perfeQion: but thy Commandment is exceeding broad*

In the latter part of this fe&ion, he fheweth his thankfulnefs : gift, by engaging his heart to the faith and obedience of the Word, ^,93. Then, by dedication of himfelf unto God, as nisfervant, to be faved by him, v. 94. Thirdly, by engagement of his heart to continue againft ail perfection in the obedience of the Word, v 9 f And fourthly,, by commendation c\ the Word above all things in the world, v.$** Whence learn, I. The worth, of the Word of God is Found fo excellent in the experience of the believers, that their experience doth fixe and fettle their cftimat'ion of it, their love to ir, and their purpofeto make nfeof it alwayes ; I will never forget thy Precepts, for with tbcm thou baft quickened, me. i. The believer is the Lords peculiar fervanr, bound to him by the bonds of Creation, Redemption and Covenant; and it is his duty thankfully to reckon his intereft and right in God, and Gods intereft in him, for his own encouragement and for Gods praife > / am thine, g.When a mans faith isftrengthened about his own intereft in God,then may he be confident to pray to God, and to exped for falvation. temporal and eternal from him; I am thine, five me* 4. Honeft endeavour to obey Gods commands, how weak foever, doth prove thebelievers inrerelt in God, andconfirmerh his hope to be faved by him j lam thine, fave me, for I have fought thy Precepts,

5. Perfecutprs of Godsfervants for obedience to Gods Word, r .°, ineftc&murtherers both of foul and body, in driving them

to

to forfake Gods commands: The wicked bAve mited forme to \ieJlroy me. 6. The trouble which the godly fuftain by perfecu-tors, fhould drive them to fearch more deeply into the Word of God, and to harden themfelves againft all that the pcrfecutors can do: and every comfort given to them from the Word, fliould do the fame ; But I will confider thy tefii monies, 7. The ufe of all things vtfible is temporal, but the ufe and benefit of the Scripture is everlafting: all things viable have their own perfections in their own kinde, and do extend fome of them to one temporal ufe, others of them to another ufe, but the Word of God extended in its kinde to all ufes, which may bring blefTednefs in this life, and in the world to come j A man may fatisfie him-felf in the contemplation of the worth and vertue of any thing, which is vifible in the world, but the riches of the Word of God is unfearchable, the deep wifdome of God in the Scriptures is unfcarchable, and the perfection of the Scripture is above all companion; Ibavefeen, (faith he) an end of all perfection, but thy Commandment is exceeding bro/d.

__ r r

MEM.

Ver, 97. 0 how love I thy law I it u my meditation all the day.

Hegoeth on in this feftion >to commend the Word of God, andtofhewhiseftimationof it for eight rcafons. Theftrftis, becaufe it hath gained the affedion of his heart unto it, fo as he cannot but continually dwell upon the meditation of it/ Whence learn, 1. As the Scripture in it felf is moft lovely for the Author, matter and ufe thereof: fo is it moft affeaionatcly loved by the beleever, and none can either exprefle or judge, how great is his afFe&ion to ir^except God only ,0 hew love I thy Uw\ z. True love to the Scripture maketh good memory of it, and frequent meditation of it alio 5 It is my meditation all the Jay.

/Vet

Ver. 98, Thou through thy Commandments haft mtde me wifer then mine enemies : for the}' are ever With me.

The fecondrcafon of commending the Scripture, is the wifdom which it tcacheth againft enemies. Whence learn, 1. Ho-linefs is great wifdome: for albeit Iearning,and malice, and long experience may teach perfecutors much, yet wifdom from the Word of God doth teach the perfecuted believer far more: Through thy Commandments thou baft made me wifer then mine e-nemies. 2. Such as derive their wifdom not from the Word of God, butfromthecounfelof flefh and blood, within or without themfelves, cannot have their eounfellors alwayes with them to confute with, but he that feeketh his wifdom from God and his Word, hath his counfel alwayes, prefent with him, to bring to his remembrance what he hath learned, and to teach him to make ufe of it; For thy Commandments are ever with wc.^.What-foever ufe or benefit we make by the Word of God, all the glory thereof belongeth to the Lord- For thou through thy Commandments baft made me wifer then mini'Jnemiss.

Verf. 99. I have more under ft ending then all my teachers-, for thy Teftimonies are my meditation.

The third reafonof commending the Scripture is, beciufethc beleever thereby is made move wife then his teachers. Whence learn, 1. Wifdome is not fo tied to teachers, but God is free to give as much and more to thofe that are taught .* I have more under ft andingtben-my teachers. 2. Though the teacher give forth the general doctrine of faith and manners, yet there is a more particular application of the Word to the hearers,which onlyGod furnifhethnnto the beleever by the Word:and in this refpecT: the believer may fay , I have more under (landing then all my teachers. 3.The fpecial application of the Word to our feveral ncceffities, cometh by joyning private means with the publick, fuchasare reading, praying and meditation; For thy teftimoniesaremy meditation.

Ver.

Ver. loo# 1underfland more then the ancients: be* caufe I \e*y thy Trecept s .

Thefounji reafon of the commending of the Word, is, because it is able to make a man more wife then old agfj and lung experience of the affairesof men in the world can do. Whence Jearn, 1. Old age and experience in common affaires, is not effectual to dircd men in the courfc of Gods obedicace, especially when they haveto do with perfecutors, but Godsfpecial wifdom by the Word muft come in here and teach : 1 undcrftand more then theancievts. 2. To keep clofe to direction of Gods Word is more fafc then to follow the minde of antiquity departing from the VVoYd, or the authority of men > I hroc m re under-Jhndingthcnthe undents ;, becvijc I keep thy Precepts.

Ver. rot. I have refrained my feet frqm every e-vilway : that I may keep thy Ward,

The fifth teafpn of the commendation of the Scri ptur-e^which isalfo an evidence of his refped unto it is, becaufe for the lore ofthe underftandingofit, andkecping of it, he had ; ba'ndoned every finful courfe,, how .pleafant and hew prcfuahle.foever, it teemed to be-. Whence learn. He that would'be a wifedif-ciple of 1 Gods Word , muft beware to follow finful coiir Pes- for fo he fhall grieve Gods Spirit, who muft make the Word clear unto him ; neither is it fufficicnt to abftain from notorious fins only, but alfo from every evil way for the fame reafon; I have reftrtinci my feet from every cvilmy, that I may keep thy Word.

Ver. 102. I have not depirttd from thf judge* merits " for then haft taught me.

The flxth reafon of his commending the Word is> becaufe he was enabled by it to overcoiuc all tentations which tended to divert him from obedience thereof, Whence leum, 1 . As there

are

are nor wanting tentations on all hands, to divert men from o-bedienceof the Word, fpecially in time of perfecution : fa there is great need of adhering unto it al waves, and fpecially in time of trouble, as the Pfalmift did I have not departed from thy Commandment, i. He who.hath flood faftinhis obedience in the day of trouble, may lawfully take comfort in it afterward, but muftgive the glory thereof unto God, as here : I have not departed from thy judgements > for thou baft taught me.

Ver. io?. How fweet are thy words unto my tafie \ yea, fweeter then honey to my mouth.

Thefeventh rcafonof his commending the Scripture is, be-caufe of felt fweetnefle in it. VVbence learn, «. There is plea-fure and delight to be found in hearing, reading, fpeaking and meditating on Gods V Vord, yet only the believer is he who can difcern it; How fweet are thy words to my tafte I i. Spiritual pleafure doth far furmount earthly and carnal plcafurej Thy words are fwceter then honey to my mouth.

Ver. 104. Through thy Precepts I get understand" ingi therefore Ihate every falfe way.

The eighth reafon of his commending the Word is, because he is made wife to fan&ification by it, and made to hate all fin for it. Whence learn, 1. As men are involved in erroi 1 , becaufe they underftand not the Scriptures: fo by the knowledge of it they are delivered from errour, and made wife again it fe-ducers: Through tby Precef is 1 get under ft &niing. 2. He thac rightly underftandeth the Scripture, as he cannot choofe but love and commend ir, fo he cannot choofe but hate every courfe contrary to it: Therefore I bate every fat few ay. $* Becaufe every finful way is a falfe way, and cannot but deceive the man that walketh therein, therefore we muft hare every finful way, and that from the fountain of love to the Word of God ; Through thy Precepts I get underftanding> therefore I bate every falfc

NUM

■ \

PSALME CXIX. 205

NUN.'

Ver. 105. ThyWord is a lamp unto mj feet: and a light nnto my path.

As in the former fection he gave evidences of his love & refpeft to the Word of God, loin this feet ion he giveth eight evidences of his fincere purpofe to make ufe of it in his practice for time to come. The firft is, his refolution to make it his light to direct him in all his actions. Whence learn, 1. A mans wayes are all in darknefle, except in fo far as he followeth 'the direction of Scripture; but he that followeth the rule of the Word, know-eth whither he goeth, and what he doth; Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet* 2. The light of Scripture is not only able ro give a man general rules for ordering his life, but alfo to direct every particular action. Thy Word is a light unxo my path.■$.Lowe to the \vord,& eftimation of itf which is the duty fet forth in the former fection) is beft evidenced by making practical ufe of it in a m^ns conversion, which is the duty fet down in this fection : and wbofoever loveth it, and loveth it fo as to obey it, fhall finde a fweet 3 lively and comfortable light in it, tc carry him through all the dark pafiages of this mifcrable and (inful life, that he fhall have caufe to fay, Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet,

ere

Ver. 106. I have fvforn. and /ft ill perform it 1 that Ifyilltfeepthj righteous judgements.

The fecond evidence of his purpofe, to conforme his life to the rule of the Word, is the tying of himfelf byanoathto endeavour to keep it. Whence learn, 1. The upright man is willing to be beund to the obedience of Go is Word, not only with

the

the rieceflary bond of Gods Command, and of his natural duty to his Sovereign , but alfo by the ftrakeft voluntary bonds he^ can, and will not repent his resolution for ever r / have fwerne and will perform it, that I will i^cep thy righteous judgements. 2. Vowes, Covenants and Oathes, to tie us unto the faith, pro-feflion and obedience ofthetfue Religion fet down in Scripture, are lawful ami fan&ified meanesto help us to be conftant , I have vowed and will perform it, Hut I will keep thy righteous fudge* menu. $; The equity of all the Commands of God mould be a great motive to inften us unto the obedience thereofs I will \$ep thy righteous judgement s %

Verf. 107. I amajflifiedvery much: quickenmt^ O LORD , according to thy Word.

A third evidence ofhispurpofe to make ufe of Gods Word is, his feeking nothing for his comfort and encouragement in his greateft affliSion, except the quickening of fpiritual life in himfelf by the Word. Wlience learn, 1. It is no ft range thing for the molt holy men to be acquainted with the laddeft fort of affliction, bodily and fpiritual: I am afflicted very much. 2. From whence foever affliction doth come, faith goeth to God only for comfort, as here, Quicken me y 0 Lord 3 .When God is pleafed to make the Word of Promife lively, or to pertorme what the promife alloweth us to expect, fuch a confolation is a fufficien: antidote to the heavieft affliction; ^uickjen me^ O "Lordj according to thy Word.

Ver. 108. Accept, 1 befeech thee, the free*wiff-offerings of my mouthy 0 LOR'D, and teach me thy judgements.

A fourth evidence of his purpofe to make ufc of Gods Word, is his prefem practicing of it, in offering fpiritifcl Sacrifices of confeition, praifcarul prayer, that his fervice may be acceptable, . and that he may be taught yet more in the obedience of the Word. Whence learn, 1. It was fpiritual, moral fervice, which the Lord by the Ceremonial Law did teach his people <*f old to offer unto him through Chrift, and the godly in the

Jewifli

Jcwim Church were not ignorant of this ; for here the Pfalmiii % piayeth ; Accept, I hefeech thee , the free-veill-offsrings of my mouth. 2. Albeit our belt fervice be unworthy of it felf to be pre-fentedtoGod, but muft have weight by Gods gracious acceptation, yet muft we offer it, and have hope through Chrifts facrifice that it mail be accepted : Accept, 1 be\eccb thee, the f,ce-wiU-offerivgs ofmymoutb. $. Together with the crYerof our prefent ftrvice, it is good to joyne the purpofe of growing in obedience and prayer for grace fo to do ftill; tAcccpt the freewill-offerings of my mouth* and tejch me thy judgements.

Ver. 10 9. Mjfculc is continually in my band: jet do I not forget thy law.

The fifth evidence of his purpofe to praclife C/ods Word, is his tefclution on all hazards, even of his life, to keep affectionate memory, and actual refpect unto Gods revealed will. IVhenct tearn 3 VVhofoever will live godly, mnft refolve to run hazard of life daily in the time of perfecution,and he who layeth his reckoning fo : hath evidence in himfelf of his upright purpofe > to follow Gods V VovdiMyfoul, or my life is continually in my hand, as ready tobe hid down for maintaining of righteoufnefs: Jet do I not forget thy Iaw.

Ver. no. The mcked have laid afnare for vte iyet I erred not from thy Precepts.

' The fixth evidence of his purpofe of conftancy in Gods fervice, is his approving of his former carriage, in his by-paft trial, which fheweth he is refolved fo to do alfo for time to come. Whence learn , i.It is ufual with perfecutors to make acts and ftatutes, or to broach fome danger one or other, which fhall either force the godly to go ofFthe tight way of obedience to Cj ods Word, or to fall in the fnare 5 The rvic\ed hrjc hid afnare for me. 2. The godly muft hold on the royal way of Gods commands, whether he fall in the fcare of worldly inconvenience or not, as the Piaimiftdid ; Jet I erred not from thy Precepts* $. He who haihkcpt the high-way, and hath eroded upon fnares, andrepcnte;h not his courie, ^iveth evidence of his fincerc purpofe

pofe to follow the Lord thereafter alfo, through all clangers, as this example teaehech us.

Verf, in* Thy teftimonies have 1 taken as an her it age for ever: for they are the rejtycing of mj heart*

ATeventh evidence of his purpofe to adhere to Gods Word, is, his placing of his riches and pleafure in his adhering unto it. Whence learn, i. The Word of God beleeved, is the fureft riches of the Saints, which when all things faile, doth main-taine and hold up their right unto God and eternal life and fo fhouldit be looked upon by .thcbeleever; Thy teliimonies have J ta^en as my heritage for ever. i. The felt benefit of the Word of God, furnifliing (pkitiial light, comfort, peace, ltrength> meat, drink, clothing, and whatfoever commodities an inheritance can yield, is and fhould be the joy of the believer, and a tie upon his heart to make him flick clofe unto it; Thy teftimo* iiies have I ta\en as my heritage for ever, for they are the rejoycing of my heart.

Vet\ 112. / have inclined mine heart to perform thy fiatutes alwaji even unto the end.

The dghth evidence of his purpofe to pra&ife the Word of God,is the bent of his heart, carryinghim on to performe what* foever God doth command all thedayes of hislKe. Whence learn, J. Albeit it be Gods work only to incline the heart unto Gods teftimonies, as we fee, v. 16. yet when God hath made the change, andhischilde is content to follow the direction of Gods Word, this inclination of the heart is counted alfo the mans own work, as here, I have enclincd my hearty 2. As only hearty fer-vice pleafeth the Lord, fo that only is fincereand conftant, which proceeds from the heart; and he who findeth this inclination, hath inhimfelf the witnefle of his fincericy y I have enclincd my heart to perform thy ftatutcs almyes even to the end±

SAtilECHi

PSALMfc CXIX. aop

j SAMECH.

Verft tt$. 1 h*tevz\vit thoughts: but thy Ldtod* I love.

114. Thou 4rt my hiding place, wdmyfiield; I hope in thy Word.

Ashe gayefcefore evidences o( his affection to the Scripture* andofhispurpofeto obey it in his practice: foin this legion he giveih fix evidences of his hatred of the evil, which is contrary to the good, which is promifed and commanded in the Scripture. The firft evidence, is his hatred of the moft fecret and meaneft degrees ofa&ual breaches of the Lords law: and for this proteftation he giveth three reafons. Whence learn, ». With earneft lore to good 3 hatred of evil neccfi'arily muft be joyned > as the connexion of thefe duties in feveral fections doth teach. 2.Everydi(likeof evil is not fufficient 3 but perfect hatred is required of us againft all forts and degrees otfin: J bate vain thoughts, j». All finful courfes in Religion or con-verfation, (fuch as are all thofe that are not warrantable by Gods Word,) are unprofitable, and (hall difappoint all thofe who d6 follow them t I bate vaine thoughts. 4. Hatred of fin is then acceptable to God, when it floweth from the love of (3od$ Word fet down in S cripture: But thy law do I love. And this is the fit ft reafon of his proteftation. ?. The prote&ion and defence which is to be found in God againft the evil of trouble ; mould ftrengthen the believer in the hatred of the evil of fin, as here i* doth: Thou art my hiding pla.e and myflricld : and this is the fe-cond reafon of his proteftation. 6. Faith in Gods Word is the fountainofthe hating of fin, and confiding in God ; I hopt in thy Word : and this is the third reafon of his proteftation.

Ver. 115. depart from toe ye evil doers { for t will kfep the (^ommmlmems of my Cod.

l> A

A fecond evidence of his hatred of fin, ishisreaouncing all ] fellowfhip^ in finning with whatfoever^perfon or perfons; lee them leek Aflbciates where they fiffi, he would have no fellow-ftiip with them in the unfruitful works of daikneffe« Whence lmn> I He that woul4\fchew fin, muft beware to comply with wicked men in their wicked courfes, and in this reipeft muft feparatefrom them, not altogether from converfing with them, for then a man tnuft go out of the world, bu from fel-lowlhip with them in evil doing: for in this refpeft is it that fae faith* > 'Depart fromme ye evil doers, z r Nothing can fave a man from complying with finners, but {ulcere refolution to keep Covenant and Communion with God , and not to difpleafe him j For I will keepe the Commandments of my God.

Verf. 116. Vfhold me according unto thy Word y

that I may live: and let me not be, afiamed of my

hope* I

The third evidence of his hatred of fin, is partly his eftimati-onof it asa fhameful thing, and partly his prayer to be pre-ferved from the ihame which fin doth draw after it. Whence lexrn^ i. The believer doth not lean to his own ftrength, or holy purpofe, but isfenfiblethat he fhalteafily fall into fin, except God preferve fpiritual life in him: and therefore he praycth: Utbold me that 1 my live ■ 2. Albeit3beleever be not able in hjrajelf to perfevere, yet becaufc of Gods promife to hold up. the weak who lean unto him, he may be confident to itand, UpVold r me^according to thy Wordy thxt I mxy live, j.Sin fhould therefore be hateful, becaufe it bringeth ihame to the finner of it felf, and ihameful difappointment of his hoped* for felicity 5 Uphold me, mi let me net he difappointed of my hopes.

Ver.11.7. Hold tbw.meup, an^ljhall be fafei and I Will have refpetl wto thy ftatutes continually.

-The fourth evidence of r his hatred of fin, is his fear of mifchief imd peiifhiflg, whkh he cannot efchew, except by Gods preserving

ferving of him in the courfe of his obedience. Whence learn» j, The ftrongeft believer is molt fenfible of his own wesjeneffe* and mo ft afraid to fin, and moft apprehenfive of the evil of finning , and of the good of perfevcring in the obedience of God: therefore again he piayech, Hold then me up> and I Jbalt lefafe. 2. Gods preferving a man from finful courfes, giveth great encouragement to him to perfeverefiriceiely in the obedience of all g'ods commands; Hold thou rncup, dndlwillbaic refpeH unto thy ftatutes continually. 3 .The believer may undertake any duty, provided he take God for the fuietyof bis performance, who if he be fought unto by prayer, and relied upori in the ufe of the meanes, will not refufe toinable us toper-forme whatfoever duty we fhall undertake; Hold thmmi/up' 9 and 1 mil have refped unto thy ftatutes continually.

Verf. 118. Thou haft troden down all them that trrefrom thy ftatutes : forth]deceit xsfaljhcod*

119. Thou pHtteB away all the wicked of the tarib like draffs ; therefore I bye thy tefti-tnonies.

The fifth evidence of his hatred of fin, is his obfervationof the mifchief decreed and begun to be executed againft evil doers. Whence learn, r. It is a fpeciai mcanes to preierve us from fin-ful courfes, to obferve the mifchief which foiloweth thereupon: Thou haft troden down them that erre from thy flames. 2. Only they who fear to fin, do fee the evil of other folks finning, and only they can make good ufe of Gods judgement on others, who are fenfible of the merit of fin,if they mould fal intoit themfelves: For this istheobfervaticn of a believer. $. Albei: the wicked hold their head high, and life up themfelvcs in their finful courfes againft God, yet he hath already t»od down many fuch per-fons, and hath decreed to tread down all of that fort : ThCu haft trcden down all them, &c, 4. Not only'fuch .as- •openly,-jand groflclyare wicked and propharie, but alfo all che-y who pleaie themfelves in the by-pathes of tneir own wintering, and do not care for pleafing of God, fhall perim : Thouhal troden down all thcmihaterrefromtby ftatutes., 5-Whatfoever bethelmrs of please, profited preferment wJiich di>wmen fctin th^ obedience of God, and whatfoever be the eicuLcs, pretences.an^i confidences which do iecuie the impenitent finners confd-J} 1 ences

ara PSALME CXIX.

ences, all will be found tobefelfe^deceit, lies and vanity : For their deceit U falsehood. 6. The godly and wicked live together in the vifible Church, as drofle and good mettal, but God who is the purser of his Church, will not fail by diverfity of trials, and judgements to put difference between them, and ac laft will make a perfect reparation of them, and c ^ft away the wicked as refute : Thou pmttft away all the wicked of the earth M drojfe. 7, The defVutfion of evill doersj as it fhould make us hate finne, fo fhould it move us to love the courfe of bolineifc; Thou put it ft the niched away, therefore Hove thy tcftimonies.

Verf. 120. My fiefb trembleth for fear ofthee : and I am afraid of thy judgement.

The fixch evidence of his hatred of finne, is the fear he had of Gods threatening, and wrath, and judgements. Whence learn, i« A tender heart is eafily affected, as with Gods mercies, fo alfo with Gods judgements: Myficfl) trembleth. 2. The godly becaufeof the remainder of finne in them, and their natu r al frailty, are not exempted from the fenfe of the terror of God, yea, it isneedfull they be now and then exercifed therewith, that lb they may be kept in awe, and their joy may be tempered with fear and trembling, and their prayer may t be fharpened, and tfy y may be kept watchfull, and fo their obedience may be furthered : ZMyfiefh tremblcth for fear of thee, mid I am afraid of thy judge* meats.

JIN.

Ver. 121. J have done judgement anjt jftfiice: leave me not to mine oppreffort*

In this feftion he prayeth to be directed > comforted and

helped aejainft his oppreffors, for fix reafons. The firft wj} cre "

of; is becaufe his carriage and caufe was vighteousi fVhenct

b ~ learn,

learn* 1. It is no ftrange thing to fee godly innocent men troubled, perfecuted and opprefled: for here is one oppreflcd, who faith truly, I have done judgement andjuftice. 2. A Believer put in the power of oppreffois for a good caufe, may call, for, and look for Gods afliftance,and prefence, and not to be given over to the will of the peiiecutois; Leave me not to mine op-prejfors.

Verf. 122. TZefurety for thy ftrvant for good, let not the proud oppreffe me*

Another reafonofhis petition, is becaufe he hath ground by the Covenant of grace, to requeftCrod to engage for him. that he (hall not be oppreflfed utterly. Whence learn. 1. Seeing the Lord is obliged to his people by Covenant, to defend his fcr-vantsagain{f their enemies, and that all things (hall turn to their good, the believer harh warrant to imploy God in his need, to interpofe himfelfc for the relief of his fervant, that he be not diftreffed : Be fnrety for thy frvant for good, and let not the proud oppreffe m.\ 2. Before men do turne perfecutors of the godly, they forget both God and their own condition, and be-come proud : Let not the proud oppreffe me.

Verf. 123. Mine eyesfaile for thy fa faction: And for the word of thy righteoufnejfe.

A third reafon, becaufe he is like to faint, and to lok hope by the Lords long delaying of delivery. Whence learn, 1. As men have received a greater meafure of faith, fo ufe they to get a greater meafure of trial, as here thisChampion isfuffcrcd to lie in trouble till he be like to (ink in it: Mine eyes fdie for thy falvation. 2. Albeit the words of promile be neither performed, porliketobe performed, yet faith mould juttifie the promife, for true and faithfull: Mine eyes faile for the word of thy righteoufnefle.

Vcrf. 124. Deal with thy fervant according unto P 3 thy

(

«4 PSALME CXIX,

'fhf mercy : a*d teach me thy flattttes

I2 C # I am f&/ fcrvant, give me ander/tan that J may fyow thy tefiimonks.

The fourth reafon of his petition for delivery and help, and for direction how to carry hinifelfe in trouble, in the mean time till delivery come, isbecaufe the Lord ufeth to deal with his fer-vants, not in juftice, but in mercy. Whence leam>'i. The coarfc of Gods dealing with his children, is not the rule of ftrid juftice, oi 4 the Covenant of works, but the way of mercy : Veal mtb.tby fervMt according to thy mercy, a. It mould fatisfie the I'tojueft of the child of God under perfecution, if God (hall direct: hito to walk holily and righteoufly. till the delivery come, and to profit in fanctijkation: "Deal with thy fervant according tor by mercy. andjeach me tby flatutes. 3. When tentatiort unto af-beliefe dorh oppofe our petition,.or the reafon* thereof* it is wikldmc to refiftit>;aad to affert our intereft in the promifc, whatipeverl^ Qppofedi and topurfue our petition : 1 amtbyfer-* vdnty givt rat undtr{landings that I mxy kriow thy testimonies ♦

Verf. 12& It \$ time for thee, LO RD, to workj for they have made voih thy Law.

The-fifth reafon of his petition, is becaufe the perfecutors were come to the height offinne> and did ftand in no awe of God, or his Word, but rejected it as a thing of nought. Whence lear'ity 1 ; As ftntiers grow in finne ti 11 they trample Gods law under their feet, fo according as they grow in their finne> the. time of Gods manifefting his juftice draweth near 5 It is time fo*tbee s Lord, to work..' 1, What perfecutors do intend, yea, and what their work of perfection driveth at, and intendeth, is put upon the persecutors fco;*c; for they have made void thy Law, is charged upon them for their contravening of it fo groily, as if they had intended^ aholifh it.

Verf. .127. Therefore I love thy Commandments a-hove gold, yea; above fine gold.

PSALMECXIX. «5

128. Therefor* I efit em all t hy precepts concern* . in£*a things to be right : and / hate ever) falfe way.

The fixth reafon of his petition, is bccaufethe more the ^er-fecutors do go about to make Gods law. void, the Pfalniift was the wore zealoos for it, loved it, efiecmedof it, juftified it, and hated whatfoever was contrary to it fo much ihcmoiedl'whence lexrn r The hatred* of holineffe and of Gods truth, perceived intheperfecutors,fliouldftirreupthe love of the godly to the truth fo much the more, Therefore I love %]iy commxniments. The more that the wicked deipLe Gods Word, we fhould efteem the more of it; I love thy ({ommxnis above gold, yex^pbpvc fine gold. The more tfuy wrangle^, and wreft it in any point, the more fhoulvl we defend and juftifie it in every point > Therefore I efteem thy precepts concerning alt thing; to be right. And the more-the wicked love wickedneffe, we fhould the more hate it, andTaU the branches of it s I hate every falfe way.

■ ■ .■■•"' ■ " Jxjj

TE.

Intfusfectionhe pro-fefjeth, his high eftimation of,andaffe-ftionto the Word of-God, v. 119,1301, iji. and prayeth for the benefits which are offered; and may. be had in it ; in the reft

of.thQ.leclion..

Verf. 129. Thy teflimonies Are wnderfnll: therefore doth my foul heep them.

130. The entrance of thy words glveth light: it giveth under flan ding unto thejtmple.

13 r. 1 opened my mouth, and panted : for 1 longed for thy commandnitnis.

He fallethhereina new admiration of the excellency of the V 4 • Word

Word of" God, and in a vehement paflion oflove toward it. Wbtnctkarn^ i. As the Word of God in Scripture is wonder-full in it lelfe, and wonderfull in the operations thereof fo when it is bed feen, it is moft admired, and every new looking upon it, raifeth new admiration of it: Thy tefiimonies are wonder full* j 2. The more the Word is admired, the more is it loved and iub-mitted unto, and more carneft defues are kindled to makeufe thereof in practice: Therefore doth my foul keep them. 5. The innermoft cabinet of a mans foul, is the proper cafe wherein to keep the knowledge of faith? love, and purpofe of obedience of God$ teftimonies: £My foul doth \eep them 4, Albeit the Word of God in Scripture be full of high myfteries, ytt ( which is indeed won4erfull ) it may be read with profit by fimple people^ any who defire knowledge; and it is fo plaine to every one who will be Gods difcrple, as it giveth light and direction prefently to the reader, in the m3ine points of falvatioh, and com: kianded duties: The entrance of thy word giveth light. $. An humble foul loving to be inftrufted, albeit weak in 'natural judgement, (hall be made wiie to falvation by it: It giveth> nn-.< derftandingto the fimple. 6. The more a man know the won-derfwll excellency, ufc, and benefit of the Scripture, the more will he love it, and long to underftand more of it, as here the Pfalm-ifts experience teacheih ; J opened my mouth, I punted, for 1 long* edfor thy commandments. 7. Common and ordinaryaffection, or defirc atter 'he faving knowledge of the Scripture, is not fuffi-cknt, but affection earnestly bended, is recefiary according as the excellency of the wildome in it doth require: I opened my mouthyandpanted* S- The Word ofQodis nolefle neceffary, arid comfortable to a mans foul, then meat is to the hungry, drink to the thirfty, or coole aire to the weary : I opened my mouth and. panted. 9 When a mans affection and love to Religion is kindled ,he hath great need to ftudy hard,to have found knowledg and underflandingoftheSrripture,lefthis Zealand affection mi r «. carry: 1 longed for thy commandments.

Verf. j 3 2. Laokjkov ufon me s and be merclfull wto me \ as tboHufeft to do unto-tbofe that Uv.e thy Name.

Unto thisprofeffion of hiseftimation andWeftion unto the

Scripture,

■

P SAL ME CXIX. 217

Scripture, he fubjoyncth four petitions for the right tifeand benefit thereof. The fiift s the lenfe bf that mercy which ispro-a naifed and ufually beftowed upon fuch as love the L^rd. tVbeuce 1 learn 3 1. The Lord beftowethbur fliort glimptc of his favour and reconciliation on his fervants, that they rr.ay finde their need to have thn fenfe often renewed unto them : Look thou upon me, and be mercifu "■ unto me. 2. As it is a mark of Gods child to finde in hioiitKe love of Gods Name, Go it is a mark put up-on him, to be vifited by God with gliinpfc of kindneffe, and mercy to him : Loo!<uponmc and be mercifullunto me, as tbou tifeftto dototbemthat lovetby Name- 3. Asit isgoodto mark Gods ufual dealing with his own children, lb it is good to ftudy conformity with Gods children in our afYe&ion to God, that we may finde conformity with them in confolation, for fo doth the Pfalmift here. 4. It is wifdome for us not to affect fingu-

Strity of divine difpenfations toward us, but to be content tobe ealtwith as others of Gods children before us have been dealt with: Be mcrcifuU to me, as thou ufeft to do unto tbofc that love thy Name.

Verf. 133. Order mj ftepts in thy word, and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

The fecond petition is for fanftification of his actions, and for mortification of finne. IVbercelexrn, 1, Albeit we have the Word of God for our perfect rule, yet we have need that God fhould fit m, and ftrengthen us te the obedience of it.: Order my ftepuintby word Albeit by nature we are ignorant and er-l roneous, unccrtaine and unliable in the way of Gods obedi-I ence, yet in the fenfe of our finne and weaknefle, we may pray I to God with confidence to be heard J Direct, order 5 and cftablifo my fteps in iby word : for fo much the Word in the Original doth import. 3. Albeit by nature we are flaves to finne, an4 ' I any finne may bring us in fubjection, yet when in the fenfe of' our weaknefle ; we have recourfeto (Jod to be helped, we may pray with hope to be heard :Let not any iniquity bane dominion over me*

.

Ver. 134. DelivcrtncfrwthtPpprcJpon of man : fo Will 1 k*tp thy frccefts.

The

The third petition is for delivery from the ooprefllon of per* fecutors, thatthey be not able to drive us from the belief and o T bedienefcofi Gods Word. Whence learn, 1. Betide the body of finne and inward tentations, the godly have the? perfection of the wicked without to drive them from Gods Yeryke, as this-prayer doth import. X. Whentfc, Lords fervants in the fenie oftheirweakneffe,dofeekhelpapinft perfecutevs, he both can and will deliver them either by breaking the yoke of the oppref-for,or by giving ftrength to them tob:ar out in holy obedience, of Gods Word, under the burthen : 'Deliver me from theoppref* fion of mm* $. The end of our feeking to be free,, from bodily bondage and trouble from men mould be, that we may fcrve God the more chearfully; Deliver me 3 [0 mil I fyep thy ftatutes.

Ver. 13 f . Make thy fdee tofbine upon thy fervant, and teach me thy flatutcs.

The fourth petition is for fpiritual confoUtion,and increafe offandification*. iVhence learn . J.- Albeit the fenje of Gods favour to us may be withdrawn for a time, yet the right which we have to God reconciled to ustoChrift, may bear us out in the hope of having it renewed unto us in his fervice : Ma\c thy fdee tofhineuponthyjervani. 2. Bccaufe the Lord ufeth, with the light of confolation, to give alfo the light of direction in duties we mould feek both, and wait for both from the Lord: tMika thy face to Jhinc,and teach me thy ftMutes. 3. As there are degrees of (jods manifefting of his favour, and degrees of profiting in the obedience of Gods Word: fo (houId we feck the increafe df both, and no meafure received mould binder the feeking of a greater meafure, as the often repeating of the fame petitions in effect doth mew:, ?Mx\e thy face to Jhine upon thy fcrvant, and teach me thy ftatutes,

Ver, 136. Rivers of Waters runne down mine

eyes : (?ecau[e they keep not thy LaW*

. He addeth a reafon to this laft petition, becaufe k grieved him much to fee God difhonoured by them among whom he lived, and to fee them 3 by net obeying Gcds ftatutes, draw upon

on themfdves Gods wrath. Whence learn, 1. He who is for-powfull for diplcafureand difhonour done to God, may look to be comforted by God, as the connexion of this reafon with the former petition doth teach, z. Truefcealisfo farre from private revenge of perfonal injuries received by perfecutors, as it canpittytheirmiferablecafe, and mourn for them: 7{ivcrsof waters tunnt down mine eyes, becaufe they keep not thy Law, $. (Godly affe&ions are larger then bodily expreffions can fet forth and that which bodily expreffions do fet forth, fonifieih a will to vent much more then the body could furniftu Rivers of waters runne down mine eyes, becaufe they keep not thy Law.

\ _ —• — '• —-■— - — *

TSADDL

Ver. 137. Righteous art thou, 0 LO R7) ) and upright are thy judgements.

InthelaftverfeofthisfecYion,he prayeth for a greater mea-fure of the faving knowledge of the Scripture, moft ardently, and premifeth eight reafons before the prayer, from which he doth inferre his petition as a conclulion : The fiift reafon of this petition's from the righteoufnefle of God, which appeareth irt the Scripture* and in the execution of Gods Word, Whence learn, I. The way fet down in Scripture for juftifying of men, and the way fet down for fan&ifying of men, and for the Giving of fuch as follow the way prefcribed of God for falvation, and thepunifhingoffuchas defpife the way of life prefcribed, are very righteous, when they are well confidered : Upright are thy judgements. 2. The way of righteoufnefle fet down, in Scripture, 3nd of execution made according to it, may be demonstrated by the eflential righteoufnefle of Gjds nature, becaufe as he is righteous, fomuft his Word and working conforme thereto be righteous alfo: Hjgbtcous art thou, 0 Lord, and upright are, thy judgements.

Verf. 138. Thy tejiimonies that thou hafi com-winded) arc righteous: and very faithful/.

The

The fecond reafon of the petition is, becaufe the teftimonics of Scripture which God hath commanded us to believe and obey, are not only righteous but alfo very fait hfull> which can never faile a man that believeth and obeyeth them t Whence learn, i. To the end that our faith and obedience may be folidly ground-ed 3 we muft hold for a foundation, that the Scriptures are righteous and true, and that every truth revealed therein, doth include a command to believe it > and every duty of men declared therein, includeth a command to obey it: Thy tcjiimonies which •thou baft commanded , are righteous , and very faithfull. z. It is needfull for a believer to labour to have the impreffion of the truth, and righteoufnefle of the Word of God in Scripture (lamped on his own heart by freequent meditation, and acknowledgement thereof, as the Pfalmifts example here doth teach us.

Ver. 139. Mf zeal hath confumed me\ becaufe mine enemies have forgotten thy Words.

The third reafon of the petition is, becaufe his zeal co thd commands of God was fo great, as the opposition which his enemies made unto them, did torment him, and fuch zeal required growing knowledge. tVhence learn, 1. Zeal had great need of found knowledge, that it mifecary not, and he that find-cth zeal kindled in his breaft, mould labour to informe him-felfe well, as the Pfalmift doth, v. 144. and here: My \eal hub confumed me : becmfcmine enemies have forgotten thy word.i.Holy aftedions are able to work upon the body, no letfe then common and natural affections: My \exl hath confumed me* 3. The Contempt and mifregard of the Word of God, perceived in any, efoecially in profeflbrs within the vifible Church, is a juft reafon of zeal,ajuftcaufeof grief and anger againft fuch workers of, iniquity : My \eal hath confuted me^ becaufe mine enemies have forgotten thy word.

•Ver. 140. Thy word is very pare : therefore thy fervant loveth it.

The fourth reafon ofhis petition, is becaufe he feeth fuch ho-linefle and unrnixed truth in <?odsWordj as he cannot choofc

but

but love it, and therefore muft pray tint he may know more of if. Whence learn, i.The Word of God is a Word clean from all mixture of flattery or falfehood, tried to be true in the experience of all ages; Thy word is very pure. 2. New contemplation? of the excellency of the Word of the Lord, draweth forth new commendations of it, and raifeth frefh affection of love to it: Thy word is very purt> therefore tbyfervant lovetb it.

Ver. 141. /am fmaU gnd defpifed: yet dol not forget thy frccefts.

The fifth reafon of his petition is, becaufe the Word of God held up his heart, and comforted him againft ail the contempt of men. Whence learn, 1. The godly may readily lofe reputation at wicked mens hands, when they will not comply with their wickedneffc: I am [mall and defpifed. 2. Albeit we do lofe efti-mation for adhering to the Word of God, yet the Word fhould not lofe eftimation for that wkh us; I am defpifed,yet do I not forget tby precepts.

Verf. 142. Thy right etufneffe is an everlaftivg righteoufnejfe : and thy Law is the truth.

The fixth reafon of his petition, is becaufe everlafiing righte? oufneiie, and everlaiting truth is in Gods Word, and may be found in experience by it. Whence learn, 1. This is the excellency ofthc Law of God above all the lawes of men, that not only it is righteous at the firft giving out, bu: alfo righteous in all ages and times; Thy rightcoufnefle is an everlafiing rigbte-cufneffe: and thy law is truth. 1. The rightcoufnefle which God hath devifed and fet down in his Word to juftifie finfull men, is an cverlafting rightcoufnefle, even the righteoufnefle by faithinJcfusChrift, borne witneffe unto by the Law and the Prophets: Thy righteoufnejfe is an everlafiing righteoufnejfe, and thy Law is truth. 3. Ic is good for the feeling and Itiengch ning of the holds of our faith, to confidcr again and again, what excellent profi: may be had by it : and how true it is, as here the PUjmift doth.

Verf. 134.

m 222 PSALME CXIX.

Ver, 143. Trouble and anguijhhavc taken hold ion me : yet thy Commandments are mj delight.

The feventh reafon of his petition, 12 becaufe the Word of God hath been his delight, when trouble and vexation hath befallen him for obedience of it. Whence learn, u The believer is not exempted from outward trouble for righteoufnefle, nor from the vexation and inward anguifh of fpirit which may follow It: Trouble and anguifh have ta\en bold, on me. 2. After thac the believer hath felt his own weaknefle, and the force of trouble, he may expect victory .over trouble, and to be rid from the vexation of it, and brought even to rejoycing in tribulation.-jet thy Commandments Are my delight.

Vcrf. . 144. The righteoufnejfe of thy teflimo^ tiies is everlafting: give me underfianding % and 1 Jhalt live.

The cfehch reafon of his petition, is becaufe life everlafting is to be had by the everlafting righteoufnefle fet down in Gods Word, therefore he prayeth to have more ur.derftanding thereof, that is, to have more clear knowledge and more ftrong faith inGodsteftimonies. Whence learn, 1. This is the main Do-ftrine in all the Word of God, to teach men concerning cverlafiing righteoufnefle, or how a man is juftiried before God, therefore is this again repeated. Thy rigbtccujneffc, or, the righteoufnefle of thy teftimonies is everlafting. 2. The belief or (aving underftandingofthis Doctrine brfngeth eternal life .co the believer .- and for this end being jo.yned as the laft rcafon with the former feven reafons, it fliould nuke a man leek to grow in the faith, or in the faving knowledge of the teftimonies of God fet down in his Word : (jive me underft&niing, and J {ball

COPH*

"

PSALMECXIX. m

COPH.

Vcrf. 145. / cried With my Whole bedrt : hear* me, OLORD, 1 will keep thj flames.

In this fiction he fallcthon another maine petition untoGod, foe reftoring unto him, and encreafing in {him the vigour of fpi-rituallife by his Word,v. '49- and to prefle this petition he u-feth foure arguments, iome going before, fome following aftec it. Thefirft argumem harh foufe branches 5 the firft is^ be-caufe he had prayed earneftly before for quickening of him, that fo he might be enabled to ferve God. Whence learn, 1. When the world is crying, Who will mew us any good thing ? this matt wUbing for pteafurc, and that man for riches, and he for honour, and he for preferment, the Lords children mould be feek-ing grace to ferve God, as the Pfalmift did : I cried with my whole heart, bear m* 0 Lord,and I mil keep tbfftatutcs. 2.When the conscience can bear witneffe of hearty feeking of °race to ferve God, the Supplicant may confidently call for, ana expe<5t comfortable quickening of his fplrlc unto Gods fervice, as the comparifonofthisverfe with the 149. verfe doth fhew. 3«What-foever fpiritual grace we ieek of God, we mould feek it earneftly: for if we feek it 3 fo as if we did not regard whether we obtained our requeft or not, fuch feeking mould undervalue the grace which we feek j I cried with mj whole heart.

Verf. 146. I cried unto thee, fave me : andljhali keep thy teftimonies.

Another branch.of the argument is, becaufc hedidnotpray .-for delivery out of bis trouble, for fatisfa&ion of his natural de-£ie, but that he might give further proof of hispurpofe to obey

Gods

Gods Word Whencce learn y Thc conference of a fincere purpofe tofeekuod, may encourage us to leek both confolation, and lively a alky toferve him j I cried unto thee, fave me, and I Jb.Ul keep thy tcflimonics.

Verf. 147. I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried 11 hoped in thy Word.

A third branch of the argument is, becaufe out of hope to finde the fruit of Gods promifes, he had been early about the duty of prayer. Whevcc learn, 1. Prayer rtiould be earneftly followed and with no fmall diligence in ufing of the meanes, fpecially of prayer, fo the Lords children come by their holy defires, as here we fee 5 I prevented the dawning of the mornings and cried. 2. Looking unto the Word, doth furnifli faith and hope, and faith and hope do furnifli prayer, or elfe the Supplicant might foon faint: 1 cried, I hoped in thy Word.

Vcr. 148. i^fine eyes prevent the night-watches : that 1 might meditate in thy word,

A fourth branch of the argument is, becaufe when his nights reft was broken by troubles, he did meditate on Gods Wordrwhen his perfecutors were fecurely fleeping. Whence learn, x. The difficultie wherein the Lords children arecaft mspy times, doth bereave them of their nights reft; Mine eyes prevent the night-watches, i. The time which folicitude doth take from our flcep, is to be fpent upon prayer and meditation of Gods Word, and not upon perplexing thoughts: {Mine eyes prevent the night* watches, that I might meditate U thy Word.

Verf. 149, Heare my voice according unto thy /*-vingktndnefte : 0 LQKD y quicken me according to thy judgement*

This is the main petition in this fecT;ion,put up for renewing and encreafing in him the vigour of fpkitual life by faith in the

Word,

Word, wherein he giveth a feccnd reafon of this his prayeri taken from Gods kindnefle exprefied in his promifes. Whence kirne, u Albeit a man had no fpccial promife of help in a particular excrcife of trouble, yet the confederation of Gods mercy and loving kindnefie, manifefted in general in his Word, is a fufficient ground to ftrengthen Vis hepe to be helped : Hear my vokc : according to thy loving \indneffe j 0 qiiic^. u me accordingto thy judgements, a.As the fueling or ipiritual dead* nefle doth argue lite and fenfe in Gods children, fo doth it fit a iman for renewed influence, and feme of fpuituallife: OLord, qulcfienme according to thy tcftimonies.

Verf. 150. The j draw nigh that follow after mi /-chief: they are farfrom thy law.

151. fbouatt near % and all thy Commandments are truth.

The third reafon of his petition is,becaufe his enemies were ready todohima mi/chief, and were far from regarding Gods law, but he believed God was the more near <o deliver him, and that his Word was true, and therefore he dcfireth renewed vigour of ipiritual life. Whence learn, 1. The more near that danger is, the more ground of confidence have Gods children in their danger, to call and hope for the influence of his Spirit 2 They draw near that follow after mifchief a. The further the enemies of thegodly are from Godslaw j and the nearer they arc to do a mifchicf, the nearer are Gods children tofindethe communion of the life of god j They draw near that follow after mif-chief, they arc far from thy law. 3, For the confolation of a fuf-fererforrighteoufnelTe, it is neceffary to believe Gods readinefs to deliver him, and to believe the truth of Gods Word, whereby his caufe is juflified $ for the following of Gods command, #is a pledge of Gods aflifting of him, and delivery alfo, no leffe then a promife; Thou art near > and all thy Commandments are

Verf. 12. Concerning thy Teftimonies, 1 have kpotvn of old, that thou bufi founded them for ever*

CL A

az6 PS A L ME CXIX.

A fouvth reafon of the petition is becaufe he had long finccexperience of the everlafting liability of Gods teftimonies,and thcrfore cravethto be quickned according to them. \V hence learn^ i.The faith of the {lability & unchangablenesof Gods Word in general, is a good mcanes of applying and making ufe of the paffages thereof in particular; Conccrningtby teftimonies, I fyiow tbxt tbon baft founded them \or ever. z. By-paft experience of the truth of Gods Word, is an encouragement to hope for help inlike trials afterward; Concerning thy teftimonies, I ^norvof old 3 that tbou baft founded tbem for ever.

RESH.

Vcrf. i J 3. Confider mine ajfliftion^ud deliver me: for I do not forget thy Urv.

In this fcftion he prayeth for delivery out of his affliction, and for qaickening of him, by confolation and fpiritual ability, to ferve God till the delivery came; and to ftrengthen himfelf in the hope of obtaining this, he bringeth forth eight reafons of his petition. The firft is, the confeience of his adherence un* to, and endeavour to obey the Lords Word. Whence learn, 1. Albeit the Lord cannot but fee and confider our trouble, yet we can hardly reil fatisSed, till he by real effect make it evident that he pitkth us in our affliction, and delivereth us out of it: Confider mine affliclion, and deliver me. z. As no trouble or tentation fhould drive us from the obedience of Gads Word, fo the more clofely we adhere to the Word in the obedience of faith, the more may we be allured to be delivered; Deliver me, for 1 do nut forget thy law.

Ver. 154, Plead my caufe^ and deliver me: quick: en me according to thy fVord,

He urgeth the fame petition, and infinuateth a fecond reafon

for

.for it, From the Lords engagement by his Word, to be Advocate for him,to deliver him, aid to quicken him, Whence lexrnc±

1. Albeit the godly under perfection have a good caufc, y< r rhcy cannot plead~it,exceptGod thei: Redeemer fhewhimfeff as Advocate for them ' therefore prayeth the Pfalmift, Plead mycaufe.

2, When God the Redeemer plcadeth amansc^ufe, hedothk to purpofe really and efre&ually : Plead my cm fc^nd deliver me. 5. Except the Lords Clients (hall finde new influence from God from time to time in their troubles, they are bat as dead men in their exercife : tor,«^*V^w mc,importeth this v.Till we find lively encouragement given to us in creuble,wc muft adhere to the Word of promifc;^/*;/^/ me according to thy Word* 5. What the believer hath need of, that God hath not only a will to fupply, but alfoan office t0 3ttend it* and power to effe ctuateit, as here he hath the office of an Advocate, and of & powerful T^tdecmer dfo, wherein the believer may confidently give him daily employment, asheneedeths i lead my caufej ani deliver me> quicken me according to thy Word.

Ver. ijj. Salvation is far from the tvicfad: for theyfee\ not thy fiatntes.

Athird reafon of his petition of delivery is, becaufe the wicked who mifregardGods commands when they fal into trouble,are far from delivery. Whence learn, 1. The wicked have neirhec ■ rght to falvation, nor to temporal delivery from trouble when , they fall into it i Salvation is for from the r^kkpd. 2. It is ths I mark of a wicked perfon to mifiegard, or not to care to know j and obey Gods Word ; Silvxtion is fir from the tficked, fit ! tbcy/celi not thy ft Mutes. 5. Salvation is near to thole that make ! conscience to obey Gods Word, how ftrait foever their condition (hall feem, for fo much doth the force of this reafon im* t pore.

Ver. I5& Great arc thy tender mercies, 0 L O R1) f quick<n nte according to thj jtidge* mcntSh

A fourth reafon of his petition is, becaufc Gods tender mercies are <? reat,and therefore the Pi'alnaift may expect the influence of ' life till he be delivered. Whence learn , i. When the godly do thinkoi- fpeakof thedamnable condition of the wicked, they fliouldnotbefenfelcik of their own defetving, nor of Gods grace, which hath made the difference between the wicked and thems Great arctby tender mercies, 0 Lo*d. z. As the mercies of the Lord, which are the fountain of all the benefits which the believer doth ask, arc very excellent in themfelves: fo are they in the eftimation of the believer, when he look-eth upon them: they are many and mother-like, tender and great* Great are thy tender mercies>0 Lord. 3. Spiritual life is fubjed to often fainting, and hath need frequently to be fup-ported and reftored by the believers looking on thepromile, and prefentingof his cafe unto God on the one hand, and by Gods granting of the petition on the other hand : Quicken mi wording to tby judgements.

Vcrf. 157- Many arc my ferfecutors , and mine enemies*, yet do I not decline from thy teftimo* nies.

Afifthreafon of his petition is, becaufe he had manyperfe-cutois, and yet did adhere to Gods Word, Whcncelcarn, i.As it is no ftrange thing to fee the godlieft men expofed moft to perfection s^fo it is nofmall meafureof grace which God be-jloweth on them, to bear out the truth againft all oppefition; Many are my perfecutors and mine enemies, yet do I not decline fromtkyteftimmics. 2. He whocontinuethinthe faith and 0-bedience of the Word againft perfecution, may exped fuftenancc and confolation in his trouble* and delivery out of it; for this is the force of the reafoa.

Vcrf. 158. I Meld the tranfgrejfours, and "icxi grieved ; btcauft they kept not thy Word.

Afixth reafoncf his petition is, becaufe he was forrovvful ta

fee

fee his enemies provoke God by their tranfgre (lions. Whence

learn, i. Anger, grief, indignation and loathing (which the

•word in the original doth bear) are lawful in Gods quarrel a-

fainft finj/ beheld the tranfgYcftors.and was grieved, beuufc they jpt not thy word. 2. He who is anv&ed with grief, anger and vexation for Godscaufe, when he feeth God provoked by tranf-grefibrs, may expect confolation and ftrength to himfelf in the defence of </ods caufc a as the force of the reafon doth import.

Ver. 159. Consider how 1 love thy Precepts: quicken me, O LORD, according to thy loving kind* nejfe.

A feventh reafon of his petition is, becaufe he did fincerely love the Lords Word 3 and [therefore expected to be quickened in the fenfe of Gods kindnefle. Whence learn, 1, It is a mark of true zeal for God, which floweth from love of the Lords Word, and he who findeih this mark in himfelf, may offer it to God for a proof of his fincerity; CoJifidcr bow I love thy Precepts* 2. He who can approve his love toGoJsWord, and his zeal for God to be Gncere, may expect confolation and ftrength from God in his need, as the reafon doth prove, j. So oft as we finde deadneffe in our fpirits, fooft fhould we run to Gods kindneiTe, the fountain of life to repaircic : ^uicfien tnc, Q Lord, according to thy loving fyndneffe.

Vcrf. i£o. Thy Wofd\% true from the beginning: and every one of thj righteous judgements endurctfr for ever.

The eighth reafon cf his petition is, beciufe the Word of God, ana every part of it, according whereunro he craved c m-fort and delivery out of his trouble, was true and unchangeable for ever. Vj/hcnce learn, 1. Such is the excellency cf the Word of God, as neither it can be Efficiently commended, nor the believer fatishe himfelf in commmendation thereof, as this Among many commendations doth tcfline. i. Truths and

Q. i &

all truth is the fhoit famine of the whole Scripture, from rho beginning to the ending of itnorhing but truth; nothing al-, lowed in it but righreoufncne : Thy Wor l is true ft om tlx begin* ping, andcvery one of thy righteous judgements endure for ever. 3« He who foundeth his prayer to comfort and delivety on the rock o> Go is fiithful and righteous Word, may be fare to obtain his requeft: as the force of this; reafon doth evidence.

SHIN

Verf. 161. Princes have perfecuted n>e without a canfe j but mj he Art fiandeth in atyt of thj

Word.

In this feftion, he taketh comfort by fix approved evidences of faving grace felt in himfelf, which he prelenteth unto CJod to be fealed by him. The ft/ft evidence is his adherence to the obedience of faith, notwithstanding of his being perfecuted by Princes. Whence learn 3 i. It is a fore tentation when the goU ly are perfecuted for righteouineite by their Govetnours, by whom they mould be encouraged and defended, and yet this ex-£rcife of the godly is no ftran^e matter: Princes have perfecutei me without a caufc . i. As it is an eafe, and a piece of comiort to the godly, that they have not deferved perfecution: fo their in-nocency is an aggravation of the fin of the perfecutor, as here; They have perfecuted me without a cwfe* $• There is no means to favcus from (inning for fear of men, butthefear of thetu-preme power of the Almighty > *Biu my heart ftandeth in awe of thy wordy which is all one as to ftand in awe of God. 4-To bear out perfecution of Princes, out of refped to the obedience of Gods Word, and fear to offend G od, is a mark of faving grace, as here it is brought forth.

Verf. 162. 1 rejojee at thy Word*, as one that findeth great fyoilc^

The

The feeond evidence of faving grace in him, is a greater joy felt in Gods Word, then in any thing in the world, yea, fuch a joy, as the greatcft joy of worldly men, is but a fhadowing fi-militude ef it. Whence learn, 1. He that feareth to offend God more then he feareth to fall into any worldly inconvenience, may rejoyce in the obedience of faith more then in any worldly advantage, as the experience of the Pfalmift doth teach, who faith; My bean flood in awe of thy Word, when Frinces did perfecuteme, and fubjoyneth, I rejoyce in thy Word, as one that findetb great fpoile. i. The joy of a believer, which he fmdeth in the obedience of faith, is To great, as the joy which a Vi&oj: in battel doth finde in the fpoile of his defeated enemies, which is butaihadowofit, albeit the joy of delivery from death, the joy of vi&ory 3 the joy of riches, honour and peace, and eafe arejoyned in the Victors breaft altogether onafudden: I re-joyeedatthy JVord, as one that findetb great fpoile. 3. The juncture of fear to offend God, and joy in obedience of him, is a mark of a gracious fpirit, as the Pfalmifts producing of it as a mark of grace in him m aketh evident.

Verf. 163. / hateand abhor lyeing J but thy Law elo I love.

The third evidence of faving grace in the Pialmift, is his joynt hating and abhorring of all fin, and loving of the obedience of Gods Word. Whence learn, 1. As the [peaking of untruth, or concealing of truth which mould be confefled, is a lying \ fo every contravening of profefled obedience unto Gods Word, is a work of lying and felt-deceiving, which a beleevcr fliould hate and etc hew: I hate and abhor lying, z. Slight hatred of aliriful courfe, is nor fufficient to guard a mariagainft it: for where the enmity is not great, the mars agreement with fin may foon be made, but fuch abhorring and deadly hatred of fin is required, as cannot admit reconciliation : / bate and abhor lying. 3. Hating and abhorring of all fin arifing from, and joyned with the love of Gods Word, isafolid mark of faving grace : for abhorring of feme fin, and of all/in, for temporary reafons, may prove unlonnd; but this isfinccrity, when a man can fay, I hate and abhor lying, but thy Law do I love.

Q.4 Vcr.

Ver. 164, Seven time* a day do 1 fraife thee: be*

tAHJe of thy righteous judgements.

The fourth evidence of faving grace in the Pfalmift> is the frequent admiration of thegoodneffc of God to man, fet forth in Gods Word, with hearryprailing of God for it- Whence kMr^ 1. As the ftudying of the Word of God bringeth the believer to fee his own blefledneiTe revealed in it; fo it bringeth him alfoto admire and praife God for that and for all his righteoufnefle declared in it: Seven times a day do I pYdife tbee 3 becaufe of thy rigbtcow judgements. 2. The more a man difcover Gods glory in the Woad, and be taken with the love of God, and admiration of God for what he fceth , and doth make life of Gods Word unto Gods praife, the more clear evidence hath he of the work of Living grace in himfelf, as here the fcfalmift maketh ufe of the mark; Seven times a day do I praife ibee, becaufcoftby righteous judgements.

Verf* 165. Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing fia/l offend them.

Tor confirmation of the former marks of faving grace, he commendeth the love of Gods Word, by two notable effects } One is, that it bringeth a glorious peace with it: Another is, that it maketh a man hold on the way of Gods obedicncc,what? foever impediments or ftumbling blocks (hail be call: in his way. VVbevce kxtniy j. The receiving of the truth of God in love, givethgreat peace, peacepaflfingunderstanding: for the law of works doth fhew a mans debt and danger, and the beleever fub-fcribeth lovingly to the juftice thereof: and the law of faving faith fhewethremiflion of fin, righteoufnefle and eternal life through the Meffiah Jcfus Chrift, and the beleever embraceth the offer heartily: and the law of new obedience diredcth the ju? flified m3n how to go on to the full poffelTion of blefledneite,ancL the believer doth heartily take on this holy yoke upon him, and fohcwalketh as a man reconciled with God, and at peace with him: Grexi-[ejeebave tbey ycho love thy lm>. 2. Albeit there

be

be many ftumbling blocks and impediments to divert the belee* ' cr, from the obedience of Gods Word, arifing from theterrour and allurements of the world, from the troubles and exercifes of the godly, from the fcandals given by Profeflbrs, and fuchlike* yet the love of Gods Word is able to carry a man ftraiton his way to heaven without ftumbling or turning afide to the one hand or the other: Great peace have they who love thy Urv } and »$-thing fhall offend them.

Verf. ^66. LORD, 1 have hoped for thy fahati^ en: and done thy Commandments.

The fifth evidence of faving grace in the Pialmift is, the confeiencepf his found faith and obedience. Whence learn, 1. Sound hope of falvation is joyned with the care of keeping ;he Commandments; for he who hath this hope purifieth him-ielf, that he may be holy: Lord, I have hoped for thy falvation, and done thy Commandments. 2. As none can have heart or hand to keep Gods commands except he have hope to be helped out of every trouble wherinto he may fall, and to 6e fully faved at laft ; fo he who hath the hope of falvation, hath great encouragement unto obedience, and where the conjunction of thefe two are found, the man hath evidence of faving grace, and boldnefs to 20 to God in this confidence* as the Pfalmift dcth> Lord, I have hoped for thy falvation , and done thy Command* nients.

Ver. 167. My foule hath kept thy Teflimomes: and I love them exceedingly.

1 68, 1 have kjept thy Precepts and thy Tiftimonies: for all rnj wajes are before thee.

Theftxth evidence of faving grace is, the approved teftimo-nyof his conscience concerning thcfincerity of his heart* and that after a new examination of the foundnefie of former marks, which here a: clocked upon over again , and prefented to God With other three marks of finccrky, towit, ipivitualnefs in o-bedience, exceeding love to the VVord* and daily waiting as in

the

*24 PSALME CXIX.

the fight of Goy\. Whence learn, i. After a believer hath found marks offaving grace in himfelf, it is wifdome for him to examine thefe marks over again, whether they be to him indeed and in truth or not: for if they be indeed in him, how weak foever they be* and albeit joyned with imperfections, if compared with the perfect ion of the moral law, yet will theybeare weight in the balance of the Cjofpel, ('where any meafure of up-rightneffe pafleth for perfection, J as here the example of the Pfalmift doth teach, i. Where the foul, or the renewed part of the man is for the obedience of faith, there is a fincere keeping of the commands: My foule bath kept thy tcftimonies. 3. Where the love roC/ods Word, and the obedience thereof exceedeth the mans love to any thing which might divert him, there is afincerity in keeping of the V Vord; I love thy tejlimo-Tiies exceedingly. 4, As the looking alwaves unto Gods all-feeing eye, is a fpecial meanes to make a man keep his commands: fo theconfeience of his endeavour fo to do, teftifieth finccrity; I have kept thy Precepts and thy Teftimonies: for all my myes are before thee.

TAU>

Vcrf. T49. Let my cry come near before thee, 0 LORD: give me under {landing according to thy Word.

In this laft fection, he clofeth ali the former fweet meditations, and comfortable expr.effions concerning his faith and love, and the fruits thereof, with five petitions. Thefirftis, for the cn-creafe of faving knowledge of the Scriptures. Whence lam, 1. Nothing is foneceffary to be fought of God as practical knowledge, whereby a man may know how to behave himfelf toward God and man in every eftate, according to the rule of Scripture ; Give me under{landing according to thy word. 2. Tf God delay to anfwer us in this petition or any other, or feem to , hide himfelf from us let us follow hard after him with earneft Application , as the Pfalmift teachethus; Let my cry com near

before

Uforetbce>OLord, $.Thepromifes of Gods iWord are fuf* ficient to give us breath in crying, and hope to have a good an* 1 fwcr, ano patience till it come: Give me understanding according to thy Word.

Ver, 170* Let my fupplications come before thai de ! iver me according to thy Word.

The next petition is, for deliverance out of his trouble* JPhence learn* r. Albeit the believer is not exempted from trouble, but rather engaged to bear thecrofle, till he come to the crown 3 yet is lie priviledged to have accefle to God in pray* er for comfort, ftrength and deliverance from it s Let my (up • plication come before thee r deliver me according to thy Word. 2. T he believer craveth nothing but what is promhed 5 andas that may 3 fo it doth fatisfie him": Deliver rrx &. cor ding to thy Word.

Vetf 171. My lips JbalI utter praife : when thou haft taught me thy ftdtutes,

172. My tongue $ til rpeak^ of thy Word: f*r all thy Commandments aiengbtecUjnefs.

He ftrengthens his hope in thefe two prayers, by a promife of thankfulnefs for any meafuie of a gracious anfwer. Whence learv m 1. Astheend of our petitions fhould be that we may be enabled to praife God really, 10 theufeof granting of our petitions fhould be rhanks and praife; My lips Jhatt utter thy praife, when thou haft taught me tby fiatutes. 1. Tbankfgiving in words doth beft beseem the man, who indeed is obedient in his lite unto God : and as no man can ooey God in his deeds, but he that istaughr of God, fohe thar is taught of God to o-bey in deeds, may well promife upon that condition, to praife God in words al for My lips (halt utter praife, when thou haft tanght me thy iatutes. $. To teach others the waves of God, requireth ~hat we our {elves be taught of God; 'When thou iaft taught me thy flmtcs> my tongue flail (pcah K of thy Word. 4. There is no ground of edifying our fclvesand others, and of

glori-

glorifying of God, but from the Word of the Lord ; My tongue Jhallfpeak of thy Word. ?. True righteoufnefs is to be found only in the Word of Gods and nothing is approved in it, nor^ recommended to us by it, fave righreoufneiYe only, which fliould move us thy more to ftudy it our felves, and then to communicate it to others; For all thy Commandments are rigbtcoufe nejfe.

Ver. 173, Let thine hand he'p me: for I have ckofen thy Trecepts.

174, 1 have longed for thy falvation y 0 LORD : and thy Law U my delight.

A third petition is for affifiance in trouble, till God fliould fend full delivery to him, whereof three rea tons arc fubjoyned : One, from his making choice of the Word above all earthly things: Another, from his longing and expecting of deliverance according to it: And the third, is from his delight in the Word. Whence learn, i.As they who are refolved to ierve God maybefureofoppofnion, and of adverfarics, and of trouble from them : fo may they be perfwaded to finde Gods help in all their troubles againfl: adverfaries, for this much is imported in thofe words, Let thy band help me. 2. A : beit allurements to divert the believer from Gods obedience, be offered unto him, yet muft he reject them , and deliberately prefer Gods obedience to them all : for thus much is imported in the Pfalmifts practice: For 1 have cbof n thy? rccepts. $. He who hath preferred obedience to the baits of fin, and tnth refolved rather to fuffer then to fin, may look for Gods affiftance to fuftain him in his trouble, that he (hall never have caule to repent him of his choice: Help me, for I have chofenthy Precepts. 4. Albeit it be natural to feek deliverance out of trouble, yet it is proper to the godly to love no deliverance but fuchasGbd fendethbyhis cwnemcancsin his own time, and in this minde to wait for this fort of deliverance in the way of Gods obedience; For I have longed for thy falvation, O Lo*d, was the Pfalmifts way to be delivered. 5. The beleever is not comfortlcfle in his trouble, he hath hisownfpiritual comfort, pleafure and delight in Gods truth or in God manifeftcd therein i Thy Law U my delight, faith the P/almift in trouble.

Ver.

PSALME CXIX. *tf

1 Ver. 175, Let mj [oule live, and it /hall praife thee: and let thj judgements help me.

A fourth petition is^for continuation of his life for honouring of God. Jfkwce learttyi. As the s;odly have no will to fall into th# hands of men, or to lofe their life by murtherers: fo do they not love life, but for further glorifying of God: Let my foule live><md it [lull praife tbce. i.Whofoever have a defign to honour God in their life, which defign they have not as yet attained,may lawfully pray for prolonging their life a while J Let my foule live, and it fall fulfe tbcc. $. As the Word of God hathpro-nourced fencence already for the fuftaining of his fuffcrinj fervants, and for taking order with their perfecutors: fo accordingly may the godly pray and exped to be helped; Let thy judgements kip me.

Ver. 1 j6. I have gone affray like aloft (heep^fee^ thy fervant : for I do not forget thj Commandments.

The fifth and Iaft petition is, that the Lord would recal the Pfalmift, now being a banilhed exile, and bring him home to the communion of his people., as a wandring fheep is brought home to the flock by a kindly fliephcrd. Whence lexrn^ 1. As the beleever is alwayes a pilgrim in his affection toward this eaith:Lo alfo he may be corporally banifhed from his native coun-trey, and thruft ouc f om the fcllowfhip of the Church, as th* experience of the Pfalmiit teachcth, who doth lament his cafe, faying, lb Ave gone aftray Ufa a liftfoeep , driven out by ftorme or dark day 5 or by the hunting of the dogs, 'chafed out from the reft of the flock. 2. Albeit the banifhed bdeeverbe fepa-rated from the fellowftiip of the Church, and from his friends y yet not from communion with God the good fhepherd, who hcareth the bleating of the poor wandering fheep whereever it be, . and will rake care oi' it, and feek it out.' Seek tby fervent, faith the exile Pialmiil unto the Lord. $. The way for the beleever to keep communion with God in his trouble of banifhment or whatsoever other trouble, is to remember the direction of God \ in his Word, for going on in the way of faith and obedience, and be may affure hiwfell that the good fliepherd (ball not forget

him;

him: Seek, thjf [ervant, for I do not forget thy Comnm&+ merits*

PSALME CXX.

THe fcope of this Pfalme is, by the experience of the Pfalmift, to teach and comfort fuch as (hall be traduced, andfalfcly flandered. His exercife and deliverance isfetdown fummarily, v» i. And his prayer in his diftreffe, more largely in the reft of the Pfalme*

Ver. I. TN my diftreffe I cried unto the JLLORD j and he heard we.

From his exercife in general, and deliverance ; Lan, i.Thc godly oft-times are put to ftraits and perplexities, tha: they know not what to do till they go to God by prayer: lu my diftrejfe I called unto the Lord. 2. Diftreffe is a means to make prayer fervent, and fervent prayer wanteth not a good anfwer : I cried unto the Lord , And be beard tne.

Ver 2. Deliver my foule^ 0 LORD, from lying lips : and from a deceitful tongue.

In the reft of* the Pfalm he firft puts up his petition to be favecf from rhe bloody tongue of the calumniator, v. 2, and thendenounceth Gods judgement againft him, v. 3*4. and dofeth with a lamentation,v. 5,6, 7.

From his particular petition; Le<irn> itHow innocently fa* ever the godly (hall behave themfelves, yet are they fubjeftto the bitter back-biting of bloody calumniators, traducing them, and forging lies againft them, to make their Governours, and

Judge*

PSALMECXX. Z39

Tu<5*es fall upon them, as the Pfalmifts experience (heweth : Wetivcrmyfoulc, or my life, 0 Lord, from lying lips, and from 4 deceitful tongue, i. Albeit the innocent beleever can findc nomeanesto refute the calumnie, nor be able to efchew the danger wherein to he is caft thereby, yet God can finde a way for clearing of his name, and faving hisperfon, as the prayer teacheth: Deliver my foulc, O LOKD, from lying lipt.

Vcr» 3. what fhall be given unto thee? or what fhall be done unto theejhou faife tongue?

4. Slurp arrows of the mighty ? With codes of funiper,

He denounceth Gods judgement ag3inft the calumniator,how~ ever the matrer (hall go. Whence learn, 1. The calumniator hath as little advantage by his fin, as any fort of (inner, but for the judgement of God he is fure of it: For what fhall be given unto tbcetthou falfe tongue ? 1 . The traducer of the godly hath exquifite vengeance waiting for him,which he never dreamed of 3 and which no tongue can fufficiently expretfe ; What fhall be I done unto thee, thou falfe tovgne ? 3. As calumnies do hurt I the name of the godly fuddenly, before he can be aware, and the wound rcmawieth long, a sari owes (hot againft them; and as the coales of Juniper have the greateft heat, and burne long ere they be quenched: fo (hall the judgement of the calumniator be : Sbxrp arrowes of the mighty, or (hot by a ilrong man, and i odes of jumper*

Ver. 5. Wo Urne^ that 1 fojourne in Mefechy that Td^eU in the tents of Kedar.

6. My fqule hath long dwelt with him that bar teth peace.

7. I&mfotpeace, but when 1 fpeak % they are for Vvarrc.

In his lamentation i Learn } l< Falfe brethren counterfeit

Pro-

profeflbrs of Religion, rotten members of the vifible Church

arc no better neighbours then favage and wilde Barbarian?

robbers>Mufcovites,and Arabians, Men ofdfaf&byand ^edar

without the veree of the vifible Church; 2. It is a woful]

condition to dwell among the wicked, and yet the godly cannot

cfchew it, they may well lament it: Wo is me that I fojourne in

Mefecb, that I dwell in the tents of tfydar. 3. So long as the

godly live among wicked calumniators , they reckon them-

lelves 1 as baniftied men living in a forrcigne Countrcy ,

and are made oft-times to lament their condition: Wo U

me that I fojourn in Mefcb, and dwell in the tents oft&dar. 4. A

man mould have a great caufe of lamenting before he give vent

10 his wo : his patience mould do its part for afufficient long

time, in hope to nave the evil remedied: for the Pialmift doth

not break forth at firft, but faith, &4y foul bath long dwelt with

bim that batetb peace. ?. It is not fufficientto live innocently

with the wicked, but duty requireth that we mould labour to

mitigate thefuryofadverfaries,as the Pfalmitt did: I am for

peace* 6. Ifpeacebeftudied with thofe among whom we do

live, and we obtain it nor, yet fhall the ditty 0? the wicked be

fo much the more augmented thereby; When Ifpeake^tbe^ art

for warre*

PSALME CXXI.

A Song of degress.

The fcope of this Pfalme is to /hew, that howfoever we ard ready to feek help any where elfe, rather then in God, yet no help is to be had, except frorh God : perfeft help, and full delivery is to be had in him undoubtedly, as the Pfalmifts experience and example of faith do teach : wherein the Pfalmift leaving all other confidences be fide God, betakethhim to God Almighty only, v. 1. z. And from his own experience, giveth encouragement to all Gods people to place their confidence in God alone, by fix promifes, in the fix verfes following* to the end of the Plalmc.

Vcrf r

I

1*SALME CXXL 241

Verf. 1. T fyiS lift ttp mine ejes unto the hills X from whence cometh mj help. 2> Mj help cometh from the LO RT>^ which

made heaven and earth.

f rem the Pfalmifts example and cxercife ; Learn, i. The Lord ufeth to bring fuch double upon his own children, as mall make them fenfible of their own weakneflc, and of their need of help 5 For otherwayes we are ready to encouuter with imaller troubles, in our own ftrength : I will lift up mine eyes to the bills\ from whence cometh my help. z. Some one earthly power or other, is the 6r ft refuge which naturally wedolok unto, to fee what help may be found there : which our natural inclination thePfalmift tateth indirectly in the name of lifting the eyes to the billsyio wit, to the powers ofthe world, rather thsn to thehea-venly hills of Gods omnipotency •> llift upmineeyes unto the hills) not thefe earthly ones) will he fay, which I fee cannot heip me, but to hills higher then the higheii earthly help, as after* wardhemaketh clear. $. Nothing can fatishe faith, except the allufficiency of God, who made heaven and earth of nothing* and can give help where there is no appearance or reliet: 3\if help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.

Verf. 5. He rriSnot(uffer thy foot to be moved* he that \eepeth thee mil toot JlfHtofor*

For the confirmation of his own faith, and the faith of others* that they may reft on God* and depend upon him only Fqr re« liefein their ftraits, whether they have means of delivery, or not* he bringeth forth fix pronlifes of God unto the fyelic ver i for t>ur faith being weak hath need to have the promifes of God branched Into fmall parts, and multiplied in particulars, that fo they may be the more eafiTy applied. The firft promife is in this verfei Whence learn, i. Albeit the believer be oMiimfelfe weak and ready to fall, yet the Lord will fare him from ruinc, and keep him faft in the defence ofthe truth for which hcis put in ftraits * Hewitt not [uffer thy foot to he moved. 2. The providence of God is fo vigilant for thefafety of the beleevcr, as the believer

K acedcth

necdethnot to fear, left he futier any inconveniency by God* oversight 5 for, He thatficcpetb thee mil not/umber.

Ver, 4. BehcU.he that keepeth lfrAel, firil mi* ther{lumber norflfep*

A fecond promife made to all Gods peopkj which al r o con-firmeth the former promifc. Whence learn, 1. The Lord is keeper and watchman over his Church, and every member thereof, and this is his Stile and memorial in all ages: Beiiold, he that facpetb Ifrael, fiall neither (lumber nor Jlccp. z. The right which p articular believers have unto promifes, doth belong unto them, becaufc they are made to the Church, over which the Lord taketh fuchca»e,as he never in no moment of time faileth in his attending the Church, and every particular member thereof: He thxt ^cepetb Jfrael, Jhatt neither flumber ner Jleep.

Ver. 5. The L 0 R D\s thykeeper : the LORD 15 thy Jhade upon thy right hand..

The third promife particularly directed to the believer, including the Pfalmift himielfe. Whence learn, 1.. Albeit the believer hah net a promife,to be free from trouble and perfecu-tion, yet he liath a promifc of confolation in it, and of defence from the hurt of it: The Lord is thy peeper, the Lord. U tby fhadc* 2. When trouble comeih the Lord is not fane to feck, but is ready to be found, for protection and confolation; The lord U tby fade Kpon thy right hand.

Verf. 6. The Sttnne flail not fmite thee by day : nor the Moon by night.

The fourth promife made with allufionunto, and* application cf that cave which God had over his people, when he brought themoutofEg/pr through thewildernefs,whom he guarded them from the heat of the Sunne, by a cloud by dayj and from the cold and rnoiftnefis of the night and Moon, by a pillar of fir

PSALME CXX1. tft

by night. Whence learn, i. Albeit the believer be fubjeft td fundi y perils from adverfity, and profperity, from one adverfary power at one time, and from another adverfary power at another time; yet the Lord fo careth for him, and l'o terhperateth, and moderate* his cxercifes, that he (hall be fure not to be harmed, in order and relation to the carrying on of his felicity: The Sunnc fall not [mite thee by day, nor the Mom by mgpU *; What care the Lord had over his people in the wildernefle, the fame hath he ftill over every believer, as the application ofr the like mercy doth rtiew : The Sunnc fall not fnutt thee 93 ddy : &c.

Ver. 7. The LoRDfhatlprefcrve thee from aft tvil % he JbaRpreferve thy fouL

From the fifth promife; Learn, ii Whatibever trouble fliall befall the believer, he fliali be freed from the evil of it, becaufe God (hall make all troubles work together for his good : Tbi Lord Jhatl pre[crve thee from ail evil. i. If the believer lofe any thing by trouble, he mill not lofe what is moft precious; the Lord mall fave his foul, and (Co long as it is expedient) hig bodily life alio ; He fall preferve thy [out.

Ver. S. The LORt) (hall preferve thy going tut^ and thy coming in : from this time forth % and iw for evermore^

Prom the fixth promife • Learn, \. Albeit all men have need to have their carriage in all their affaires, directed of God, yet none hath the promife of direction and fucceflc, five the believer only, to whom it is faid here; the Lord Jhiil prefefoi thy goingout and thy coming in. 2. The Lord fo taketh his own by the hand to care for them, as he doth not leave them nor forfake them afterward 3, but gocth along with therri for ever: The Lord fall preferve thy going out, and thy coming in: frdm ifjii time forth f and even for evermore.

R * PSALMB

244 P SAL ME CXXII.

* 1 xi— 1 i -——

■

PSALME CXXII.

THe Arke of God had for a long time moved from place* to place,at length the Lord revealeth untoDdz/zrf the place wher-ofMofes had fpoken, to be Sion where the Arkefnould reft, and there David fet up the Ai ke, having revealed unto the people the Oracle; whereupon the people did heartily embrace the will of God, and came'to that place appointed for publick worship, and did invite one another to go up to worfhip In this Pfalme, we have firft Davids joy for the peoples willingneffe to aflemble unto the Lords houfe, v»i,t. In the next place, he praifes tfcritfalcm, v. $.,4,?. In the third place, he exhorteth al! to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, rcprefenting the univerfal Church, and ufeth .fome reafons to fet them forward on the duty, v. 6,7,8 ; 9.

Ver. 1. T Wa§ glad when they [aid unto me: Let m

go into the houje of the LO R D. 2. Oht feet Jhallfiand within thj gates, 0 Jeru-

fahm

From the joy which David had in the peoples willingneflei' to joynetogether in the publick worfhip of the Lord; Learn, 1. Sometime the meffage of the Lords feryants is well taken at their hand, and the fruit of their labour is returned upon them, to their no fmall joy., as here David profeffeth in his experience: J was glad, when they (aid unto mc 3 Let us go. 2. As people lawfully may, yea, and ftiouid not only ftirre up one another, by their example and mutual private exhortation, unto the fervice of God, but alfo ftirre up their teachers, and Rulers : fo teachers and Rulers fhouid think it no incroachment upon their office, nor difparagement to their pcrfon or gifts ; or ^lace, co be ftirred

PSALME CXXir. a43T

up to their duties by the people, but rather fliould cherifh and fofter the peoples holy zeal, as here we are taught by Davids praftice: Irv&gl&dwbcntbey faid untcme,.Letusgo into the boufeoftbeLord. 3. As it is no iuiall benefit to have a titled place for publick Affemblies unto Gods worfhip, to mould it be thankfully acknowledged when it isbeftowed and refolutely made ufe of, as here we fee the people did : Our feet (ball ftani mtbin tbygatcs 7 0 Jerufalem.

Ver. 3. Jerufalem is budded as a city, that is compatt together.

4. Whither the tribes go up , the tribes of the LORT), unto the tefiimony of j/rael, to give thanks Unto the Name of the LORD.

5. For there arefet the thrones of judgement the thrones of the bonfe of David.

He commendcrh tferufalem, the figure of the Church of God and of the corporation of his people. Fiift, as a City for a community. Secondly, as the place of Gods publick Affemblies for religious worfhip. Thirdly, nstheplace of publick judicatories- for governing the Lords people under David, the type of Chrift. IVbcvcelejrn, 1, The Church of God is not without cauie compared to a City, and efpecially-to frrufilem, becaufe of the union, concord, community of lawes> mutual commodities, and conjunction of ftrength, which ihbuld be among Gods people: zferufalcm U buildcd w a city that is compact together. z. That which commendeth a place moft of anv thing, is the erecting ofthe Lords banner of love in ic, and making it a place for his people,to meet together for his worfhip; ferufalem Is a city rvbither the tribes go up. 3. Whatfoever civil diftinction Gods children have among themfelves, and howfoever they dwell Mattered in feveral places of the e-rth, yet as they arethe Lords people, they (hould entertain a communion and conjunction among themfelves as members ot one univerfal Church, as the figniii-cation of the peoples meeting thrice in the year at ^crafa* tow, did teach: Whither the tribes did go up, the tribes of the hord > 4. As the tribes, foal! particular Churches, how farre R j focver

foever fcattered, have one Lord, qrje Covenant, one Law and Scripture, fignified by the tribes going up to the tefiimony of Jfrael, or to the Ark of the Covenant or teftimony, where the * whole ordinances of God were to be exerciied 5. The end of « the ordinances of God, of holy covenanting and communion, andjoyning in publick worfhip, is to acknowledge the grace and goodneffe of God, and to glorifie him : for the tribes did go up to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord. 6. The Church of God wanteth not the one Government and Governours, Courtsand Judicatories, belonging to Chrift and his Church, as the erecting of Ecclefiaftick Judicatories in tfcrufalem did fignifieand teach : for there are fel thrones of judgement. 7. The civil Governours in their civil power, fhould contribute what their power can,to the furtherance of the Church-Governr ment, and the Courts thereof: as the thrones of the houfc of David,) joyningtheir afliftancein -fcrufatem unto the Ecclefiaftick Courts, did fignifieand teach: There are (ct the thrones pf the beufe of David.

Verf. 6. Pray for the peace of ^erufalem : thej Jbal'Ipro/per that love thee •

7. Peace be whhin thy walls : and profyerity within thy palaces.

8. For my brethren and companions fake , 1 ^illuorst faj % Peace be within thee.

9. Becaufe of the hoafc of the LOK^D our Cftd, / willfee^thy good.

In the iaft plncc he exborteth all to pray for the peace of $cru-falem y or of the Church fignified by it, and joyneth four motives, untoit. Qne becaufe as it was a proof of love to the Church, fo it had a promifeof afblefling, v. 6. Another motive is, from his own example, praying for it. v. 7. A third, becaufe fo did love to the brethren require, v. 8. A fourth motive, becaufe fo did refpeft and love to the Church or houfe of God require, v. 9. H'hencc learn, 1. The Univerfal Church frtilitant, fhould be dear to every member thereof, and prayed for j that it rnay profper: Fray for the peace of $eruf4.m.* z * As

none

none can pray for the welfare of the Church heartily, except they love her: fo none {[iM love her and feck her welfare, bin fhall fare the better for it; for it is promiled here, They [ball proffer that love thee, 3. The Church is a warrc-town, and a walled town which is fituated among enemies,and may not trull them who are without, but m»ft be upon its keeping, as the typt thexot ytfcrualcrrt, with her walls and towers did fhadow forth: Vcaccbeveiikiutby watts. 4. Pe.icc within the Church is no lefle needfull, then piofpericy within it -, and if peace bs within the Church, it matters the lefle what enemies (he have without: T?etic be within thy mils* and frefperity -withinthy pahecs, doth import or infipuate fo much. 5. All the members of the Church militant, fnould be aftcfted one to another, as brethren, as fellow-partners in lofle and gaine 5 for the relation which they have to one Father the Lord, and one Mother the Univerfal Church ! For ray brethren, and companions fake, I will now fiy, Peace be within thee* 6. Seeing the Church is the Lords dwelling houfe in this world, whofoever loveth the Lord muft not oncly inwardly affect, but alio cfTe&ually by all means endeavour to romotc the good of the Church, that is to fay, every true oiem->er of the Church mull do what in him lieth, and as his. calling will fuiTer, to have Religion cfbblifhcd, Gods ordinances obeyed, publick worfhip ereftcd, the Word truly p reached 3 Sacraments rightly adminift.ed, and Church-Government according to the Word of God cxercifed ; for fo teacheth this examples Be* exufc oftht houfe of the Lord my God> I will fcc\± thy good*

P SAL ME. CXXlir.

THe fcope of this Pfalm is to teach the Lords people, how to carry themfclvs when they areopprcfled by the tyranny of their proud advcrfaries,aiyi are deftkurcof all help under heavn, wherein the Pfalmiit maketh his addrefie to God, in patience, humility, and hope, v. 1,2,. And prayeth for comfort under, and relief from, the contempt of the proud aavciia i.$ v. f y 4.

Ver. 1, FT Nto thee lift 1 up wine eyes : 0 thou Vi that dwelt*ft in the heaver:.

R 4 Behold^

E

PSALME CXXIII.

2. Behold, as the eyes of feyvants look &nto th e hand of their mafters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her Miftreffe: fo our eyes VJdAtwpon the LORT) our God, nutil that he hath mercy on ui.

From the Pfalmiftsaddrefle unto God, by this fliort prayer, under the oppreflion of the Church; Learn, 1. The force of prayer doth not confift in multitude of words, but in faith, an4 fervent laying forth of defires before the Lord, as here we fee. %. It is not ftrange tafee Gods children opprefied, and defpifed, and deftitute of all relief, except of whnt may be expected from heaven, as this cafe here fet down iheweth. 3« Albeit the Lord feem to hide himfeife from all manifeftation of his kinde re-fpe<5ts unto his people on earth, yet he will be found in he-wen, and there muft we betake our felves in hardeft ftraites ? Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, 0 thou that dwUeft ip the bexv ens. 4. The very lifting up of the bodily eye of the believer towards Godinhis trouble, hath its own ufc and force with God. Unto ibee lift I up mine eyes. 5. As fervants of old were in their condition flaves,deprived of the common co-fort of liberty, might wear no weapons, were expofed to all injuries, and had no help or comfort, except the favour of their Mafter or Miftrefle ; fo fares it oft-times with the believer for his outward condition, as thefimilitudc and pre r ent cafe of the Church here teacheth : Bcholdy Qfi the eyes of fey v ants look unto the band of tkeir Mafiers. 0. It is fitting that the pcrfecuted believer have a low eftimation ofhimfelf before God, be patient under his hand, fubmiffive to his difpenfation, and hopefull of help in his addrefie unto pod : for fo much the fimilirude from lervants behaviour toward their mafter and miftreffe doth teach: As the eyes of a maiden unto the bind of her raiflreffe> fo our eyes nait upon the Lord. 7. The intereft which the believer hath in God under any relation, hath comfort fufficicnrincluded in ir, as here the Xords being Maflcr, is fufficient to fweeten bondage of fervant, and bmi/riaii> but Covenam-intereft fweeteneth it much more: Our eyes are upon the Lord our Cjod. 8. As makers and mi-Jt-reflTcs are taught to (hew pitty, mercy,, bounty, and proteSioa Unto their fervants, on the one hand, and fervants are here taught, • pi} tfye other hand; by their good behaviour, not to marre their

' favour^

P SAL ME CXXIII. 249

favour: fo ti-.e believer is taught to behave himfelfe before G;H, as a fervant inA^d, by endeavouring indeed to obev God. 9 The cermeofthc Saints patience and waiting, is tjll God ftew mercy ; Behold, as the eyes oftbefcrvants, &c. fo our eyes mil on the Lord out God y until that be have mercy-on us.

Vcrf. 3. Have mercy upon us, 0 LO R*D 9 have mercy upon us: for "toe are exceedingly filled With contempt.

4. Ottr foul is exceedingly filled with the [corning oftkofe that are at eafe, and Vpith the contempt of the proud.

From his prayer for comfort and relief; Learn, 1. Whatfo-everaileththe Church,the Lords mercy is the remedy; Have mercy. 2. Each member of the Church mould be fenfible of the trouble ofihe whole body, and deal for it as for himfelf.-Have mercy upon jt5,0 Lord. $. Asmiferyis more preffing, fo fhould petitions be doubled, and poured forth in the Lords bo-fome: Have mercy, have merey upon us. 4. Contempt, difdain andderifionofGodsfwffeiing fcrvants, is the heavieft and mod grievous part of their afflidion ', Have mercy upon us > for wc ate exceedingly filed with contempt. 5. They that profpef in wickedneife, are ready inftrumems to afflict the godly, and to perfecute them for righteoufneile, and to meek the godly in their mifery, when they have wrongfully troubled them: Our foul is exceedingly filled with the [corning of them that arc at eafe. 6. So long as perfecutors and oppreflbrs of Gcds Church do profper, and findc fuccefle in their wayes, they will not ceafe to pleafe themfelves in their wicked courfe, and deipife both the perfons and the caufe of Gods people, whatfoever be faid againft {hem: Our foul is filed with the contempt of the proud. ' .

PSALME

z$o PSALMECXXIV.

PSALME. CXXIV.

nrHefcopeofthlsPfalme is, firft, to acknowledge the delivery of the Church, to be evidently the Lords own work,thc danger being fo great out of which they were lately delivered, v 4 f, %> 1> 4> v and next, to blefle the Lord for their prefervation

Vcrf. i. TF it had not been the LORD who A was on our fide : no^to may lfrael fay.

5. If it had not been the LORD who was on our fide, when men rofe up agaw/i w.

3 Then they had [walloped m Up quicl^i when their Wrath root kjndledagainfl us.

4, Then the waters had overwhelmed us, the fire am had gone over our foul.

5«; Then the proud rvattri had gone over our foul.

In the acknowledgment of their wonderful delivery,the P.'alm* ift dothihew that their adyerfaries on the one hind, were fo ftrong,fo many,ib craftyjfo cruel & maliciouSjand the Lords peo pie on the o:her hand were fo \ye,ak,and fo deftitute or all counfell and help, that their deliverance could be 3fcribed to no caufe,fave to G3dsftrongpower affifting his own. Whence lewh i.Al» beit the Lord do lufter his Church fundry times to be brought near to defti'uction, yet alwayes doth he prove himfelfc the Churches friend and helper, againft their enemies 5 If it hxi not been the Lord who was on our JLle. z. The Lord fo doth help his people, as he draweth forth the acknowledgement of their weaknelfe to help thcmfelves, and of utter impoflibility to be fafe without his afliftanee ; If the Lord hxi not been on our fide, my Ifuel now fij. j. Ate we are delivered out of a

danger,

Janger,wefhouldftudy to apprehend it no Icfle livclily, then when we are in the danger, and that fo much the more as we arp naturally difpofed to the contrary , as the repeating and new re-prefenting of the danger they were in doth import and teach. 4. Men in the ftatc ofnapurc are ready to be party adveifaries unto the Church : If the lo^dbadnot been on our fide, when mcnrofeupagjtinft m. 5. The wicked have an appetite after the blood of Gods people, as wilde beaits have after their prey : Then they hud fwaUowed us up quick* 6. If God mould not bridle the fury of the wicked againft his people, the worldly ftrengthof the godly to defend themfelvcs, is nothing; Then they bad [wallowed m up quick* when their wrath reas kindlci againft us. 7. If the wickedneffe of the world were let loofc a-giinft Gods people, it fhould runne as violently againft the Church, as floods of water againft thofc th:c arc within the channel!: Then the waters had overwhelmed us, the ftrcam had gone over our foul. 8. The more the matter of the Churches delivery is looked upon, the danger is the better fecn, and the greatneffe of their delivery alfo, as the infifting in the fimilitucie doth teach: Then the proud waters had gone over our foul.

Verf. 6. Bleffed be the LORD^tobo hath not given ns&sa prey to their teeth.

7# Our foul Uefcaped as a bird out of the fnare of the fowlers : the fnare w broken, and we are efcaped.

8. Our help is in the Name of the LORDi Vrha made heaven and earth.

In the Churches thankfgiving for their delivery, they make a threefold ufc of their experience. Fiift, they praife and bleilc Godsgoodnetfc.-y. 6. Secondly, they make much of the benefit and rejoyce therein, v. 7. And thirdly, they ftrengthen their faith in God for time to come, v. 8. Whence learn, i.lt 15 our duty after delivery from dangers, to acknowledge not only Gods power for us, but his goodncfle alio toward us, and to acknowledge him the fountaine of all bleiTednefie upon that occa-iion; Bkjfcd be the Lord who hath not given utM a pry to their

tcctb.

teeth, i. As the Churches enemies are fuperiour to her in worldly ftrength, foalfo in policy, craftinefle, and wordly wit, as the fowler is craftier then the bird J Our foul U efcaped m a birdout of the fnare of the fowlers. 3. According as the danger isfearful,fo is the delivery fweet and joyful: Tbefnarcis broken, and we are efcaped. 4. It h as eafic for God to deliver his people out of their enemies hands, even when they have the godly in their power, as to break a net made of threed or yarn, wherewith birds are taken .• 'Blejj'ed be the Lord, tbefnare u broken y and we are efcaped. ?. The iaireft fruits of our by paft experience is to glorifie God by confidence in him for time to come, as here, Our help is in the !>{ame of the Lord* 6, Then is our confidence in God to be delivered from evil well bottomed, when we conGder the Lords Omnipotency manifefted in the creation of the world, and held out by his Word unto us: for fo much doth the Pfalmift teach, when he maketh mention ofthe Name of the Lord, and the work of the Lord, in profef-fing of his confidence: Our help is in the Name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

PSALME CXXV.

^He

lefcope ofthisPfalmeistoconfirme the faith of the believer, perfecuted and oppreffed by the wicked, that he may hold out walking in the ftraight way of Gods obedience: and to this end, the Pfalmift ufeth four arguments. The fiift is from the inability ofthe believers felicity, v. 1, u The fecond, is freni the fhoit time of his trouble, which he (hall fufter by per fee u tort, v. 3. The third, is from the goodneile which God will manifeil toward him, fet down in the Pfalmifts prayer, p M 4. The fourth, is from the Lords judgement upon backfiiciing hypocrites, who make lhift for thcmiclves to be freed from trouble by unlawful! meancs,^. $,

Verf. I. ~TTHey that trufl in the LORD JL (hall be as mount Sion, which cannot be removed: but aHdethfor ever. 2. esfs the moHntames are rouneL about Jernjalem^

Jo the LORD is round about hi* feopU: from henceforth even for ever.

From the firft encouragement to truft in God in the time of trial; Luniy i. There i.s no fervice more acceptable to Godj or more profitable to us, then glorifying of God by faith in him, whententationsdoaflaultus,astheprofefling of the duty, and motives which are ufed here do teach us. i. Seeing the hap-pincfle of the believer is lb eftablilhed that he cannot miffc of it, be may the more chearuilly hazard in God fervice all things temporal and moveable, trufting in the Lord: They tbattruflin the Lord,flull he as mount Sion y which cannot be removed, but abidab for ever. $, The prefervation of the believer, and the liability of his bleffednefle, floweth not from any ftrength in himlelfe, but from the Lords guarding of him : As the mountains arc round about Jerufdlem, jo the Lord is round about hh people*

Ver. 3. For the rod of the wickedJha/l not reft upon t he lot of the righteous, left the righteous put forth t heir hands unto iniquity\

From the fecood encouragement of the beleever to truft in God in the time of trial J Learn, 1, No promile made to the believer, muitfecure him from being exercifed with trouble, but rather afufl fore-warne him of, and fore-arme him againft trouble : forhereitisprefuppofed he may be burdened by the rol of the wicked. 2. It is a fore trial for the godly, to have theic Rulers their perfecutors for li^hteaufneflej but this exercife fhali not laft lon° : For the rod ( which is the figne of power ) oft be wi^ed, fiall not reft on the lot of tbc righteous. $. Becaule there is hazard left the believer (hould fain: in trouble, therefore the Lord will not trie his own who believe in him above theic ftrength, but will give them a deliverance that they may efcape : The rod of the wicked (ball not reft ontbc lot of the righteous 3 left the rigbteota put forth their hands unto iniquity.

Ver, 4. Vogood, O LO RD^unto thofe that h good: and to them that are upright in their hearts..

From the third motive to believe in God in time of trial efpe-

dally $

cUUy; Lexrtty i.The true believer is a good man,harmlefs,boun* < tifull, delighting to do good to all men* and to do Wrong to no man, for here he is fo called : T>o good, 0 Lord, to tbofe that be good. 2. Albeit the believer Teem to be hardly handled by afflictions, yet (hall it afterward appear that God hath thereby been Working for his welfare; for the prayer of the Pfalmift indited by God, doth promiie fo much $ 7)o good,0 Lord>unto tbofe tbatbegood* 3. As a man that truflsin God is honeft in his heart, how weak foever, in doing the good he Would, and he take th care not only to cleanfe his lifcj> but alfo to purifie his heart: folhall he be dealt with by God as a good man, whatfoever be hisowneftimationofhimielfe : 7)q good to tbofe that arc good* diidwitjtbcmtbata eupright in their heart.

Ver 4 5» As for fttch as turn ajidt unto their crooked wajes, the LORD flail lead them forth Veith the workers of iniquity : but peace (hall be upon IfraeL

Prom the fourth motive to believe in God for bearing out iii trial; Learn, i» In the time of trial, there will fundry be found hypo'crites>counterfeit dealers, misbelievers* who will fhifc for themfelves, and turn afide from the obedience of faith, by their own crooked courfes, as here is infinuatcd I Asforfutb that turne afide unto their crooked wayes. i. God will decipher hypocrites, who do not ti-uft God, or do not adhere to the obedience of faith in time of trouble and triall, 2nd will put them as complyers with the wicked,in the fame reckoning with his open enemies: The Lord will lead them forth with the workers of t)ii* quity. 3. To look upon the judgements of God, purfuing backfliding mif-believers in time of perfecution, ftiould be a ftrong motive, to make profeflbrs conflant in the obedience of faith, on all hoards in time of trial * for the punifhment of" the Wyliemif-believer is fet down here, to teach men to be honeft and ftout in the faith and obedience of God $ For fitch as turn afide unto their crooked wayes, the Lord fiall lead them forth with the workers of in'-quity. 4. Whatfoever trouble the Lords people rtiall be put unto in the time of trial, they tfnll ftill re-maincinGods favour aud grace j and when the Lord hath purged his Church in fome meafitre,by winnowing corrupt hypocrites out from among his people, the Church (hall be refiored

to her peace $ But peace Ml be upon Ifrael*

fSALME

PSALME CXXVI

npHis is the Churches long of thankfgiving for her delivery from the captivity of 'Bibylon % wherein fijft the greatnefs of the mercy is fet down, v. 1,1, $. then a Prayer to God for enlarging of thebencfitj by making many to embrace the ofrer of delivery, v. 4. and thirdly, an encouraging confoladon to iuch as had returned or fliould returne from Babylon to their <Jwn larid^ v, ? , 6.

Ver. 1. WJH** the LORD turned again the V V captivity of Zion : we were like them that dream.

2. Th*n wto our mouth fitted with laughter, and our ton'gne with jigging : then faid they among the heathen: The LORD hath done great things for them.

3. The LORD hath done great things for m, whereof rverre glad*

In the thankfgiving the mercy is magnified} Firft, becauftf . it was above all their exptctation, v* U Secondly, becaufe it not only rejoyced Gods people, but alfo convinced the heathen of Godspower for, and goodneflc toward his people^ v,i. Thirdly, becaufe it was in it felt a mercy worthy to be praiied and rejoyced for, v. 3.- Jfhwcclorn, 1. As the Lore, fometime gi-veth evidence of his juftice in afflicting his Church/ foal fa fometime he giveth evidence cf his mercy to his people, by delivering of them, reftorihg and comforting them : as this Pfalm holdcth forth, 2. VVhofcever be the inftruments of the delivery and confolation of the Church, the Lord will fo order matter* as he (hall bfe fecrffo be the worker of the work himfelf -, therefore

is it faid here ; When the Lord turnedagain the captivity of 2u en. 3. The performance of Gods prqmifesis more glorious* then the belcevercan perceive or apprehend before he ice it; When the Lord turned again the captivity of 2 ion, we were li\t them that dream. 4- The delivery and consolation of Gods Church is no leflfc matter bf joyi andgladnefle, and praiilng of God, then their affliction is of forrow ; Then was our mouth fitted with laughter, and our tongue with finging. $. Jn the delivery of the Church theLodufeth to work fo evidently for'his people, as their advcrfaiies arc forced to acknowledge it; Then faidtbey among the heathen, The Lord hatb done great things for them. 6. Inward joy in God, and outward acknowledgement of Gods working for his people, is the duty of every true member of the Church , and is all which can be dorie at the firft receipt of the mercy by way of thankfulnefle 5 The Lord hath done great things for tcs-. 7. There is a fpeciat cminencieof the Lords working for his people, above what he worketh for the reft of the world in governing of them : The Lord hatb done great things, fay both the heathen and the Church. 8. There is this great difference between the / praife which the heathen are forced to give to God, and that which the Lords people heartily offer unto him: the one doth fpeak as having no intereft nor (hare in the mercy ; the other do fpeakas they to whom the mercy is intended, and whereinthey have their portion with others; He hath done great things for them, fay the heathen : but, he hath done great things for M, fay the Lords people.

Ver. 4. Turne again our captivity, 0 LOKD r at the (Ir earns in the South.

Prom the prayer; Learn, 1 . The offer and opportunity given of a mercy, is one benefit *• and the embracing of the offer> and taking the opportunity to mike ufe of it, is another benefit t many have the one who receive not the other, as many had the liberty of returning from the captivity of "Babylon, who made no ufe thereof, but did prefer the eafe and pleafures of Babylon, unto the prerogatives oiZion, as this prayer importcth. z. It is Xio lefle mercy to give people a heart to embrace and make aft of piTercd mercy, then it is topurcjufe the meancs, and proclaim

th?

the ofFerof it in their audience: as this prayer doth import." 3. Such as have found grace to embrace the offer of Gads mercy, ftiouldphy and pray for others, that they may finde the like mercy alfo ; Turn Jgiin our ciptiviiy,0 lord. 4-As the reftau-ration of the Chutch is no lefie comfortable, then is the making of a river run in a dry land: fo is the one no lefle poflible to God then the other j Turne again our uptivity]' as the rivers of the

South, or droughtie lands,

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Ver. ^ Thtj that forte in tears : [hall reap in joy,

6* He that goeth forth andweepeth, tearing preci* ens feed) fhall doubtle[[e come again with rejoycing^ bringing his [heaves with him.

From the encouraging Confolation of all the Lords afflicted people; Learn, 1. As the Lord hath appointed harveft to follow the feed-time. To hath he appointed the confolation of his own Church tcfollow after their afflictions/ this doth the (i-militude import.- i. As the husbandman hath fiift tcyling, labour and great expenees, and a time to endure in patience, till he finde the fruit of his labours : fo tareth it with God's children, they may be in grief for a time, before they finde the good of Religion : this alfo doth the fimilitude hold forth. 3. There is a difference between the husbandman and the Lords afflicted childe j the husbandman may have an ill harveft, but the childe of tiod afflicted, and ufirigthe m'eanCs, fhall never have an ill harveft , his labour fhall not be in vaine in the Lord : his forrow /hall be turned into joy, and his fruic fhall be multiplied unto him abundantly 5 For they xbxt (owe in tears, fiall reap in joy. He thai goeth forth, attdweepeth, bearing precious feed, fall undoubtedly come again with njoychig, bringing bis [heaves with him: His confolation fhall be fweeter, then his affliction was bitter,

PSALME

i , ■ ■ — 1 — 9U j

PSALME CXXVIL

A Sorig of degrees for Solomon*

THc fcope of the Pfalme is to fhew firft, that the defence of our pa-Cons, and fuccefle in our affaires, do depend upon Gods blcfEng uporKhe meanes ufed,i>. i> 2,. Next, to (hew that multitude ot children is GoJsblefling fclfo, v. 3$ 4,5:, The Pfalm is intituled tor Solomon, who was to build the houfe of God* and to enlarge the Kingdom of ifracL Whftide ktfn, 1. All truth of Godmuftbeftudied, but fpecially that part whereof ivearetohave fpecial ufe in our life, andexercife ot our calling, as this doctrine Irene commended to Solomon doth teach, a. Neither Solomon, nor the vyifeft and moft active among men, jnuftafcribemore to thtmftlves in comparing their affair^, then other men may do: for this doctrine is taught unto So'o-mon. $.Whatfoever wehavs, or we do, or we purchafe, or can atchievfcby wtiatfoever lawful meanes, God' m-uft be acknowledged asthe giver, doer and blefler of usthereinf for the fcope of this Pfalme/ is to teach this Ieflbn unto Salomon, and to the whole Church.

Ver. I. T^Xcept the LORDiMdthe hottfe, they 1l dabour in vaine that build it; except the LORD keep the City % the Watchman ypaketh but in vaine.

2, It is vaine for you to rife up early f to fit up hte^ to eat the bread of forrotves : for fo he giveth his be-loved fleep.

Prom the firft Joftrinc, (hewing that the defence of our per-fons 3 and fuccefle in our affaires do depend on Godsbleffing y Lwn, * .We are fubject to a twofold practical cri'our.- One is, we ordinavilylook firft to means,or to our own ftrength,or to appearances of accomplishing our defignes, and in the confidence of thofewe follow our buhneffc. Another is> when any fuccefle is

founds

founds we arc ready to facrifice to our own nets, and to inter* ' ceptthe praife due to God as this doctrine doth prcfuppofc. * To corred our natural errour,ic is wil'dom to confide:, that many men have had plenty of meanes, and have managed th^m skilfully and painfully, and yet without fuccefle : For except the Lord build the houfe, they labour in vaine that build it. 3 As it is a duty lor men to provide for their own commodious living j and their families well-being by allowed meanes, anc in their incorporations to provide for Magiftrates, Rulers, and other ciufigi needful for the defence and welfare of the incorporation and not to neglcft the meanes: fo mull God be looked untc, believed in, and depended upon, becaufe he only can give the Wet fing, he can work without meai es, but the meanes can tL feet nothing without him 5 Except the Lord keep the City ^ tbt watchman doth watcb but in vain. 4 The Lord juflly -ioth plague the painfulneffe of fome, who toile like Snails in the ufe of the meanes , whereby the truth of the doctrine doth appear ; It is v.iin for you to rife up early, to fit up late, and to cat the bread of forrorves^ that is, iparingly to teed upon courfe mcrfels, toefchew txpences. 5. It is the only way for having a quiet minde, and good fuccefle t to ufe the meanes without anxiety and to commit the fuccefle unto God : an 1 this wifdom is the proper gift of Gods chofen children: For fo b$ -give'tb bis beloved Jleep.

Ver. 3. Zo 7 children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the voombc is his r#» Yeard.

4, *sfs arrows-are in the bapdof a mighty tnxn $ fo are children of the youth.

5. Hap yh the man that hath his quiver full of them, they fball not be ajbamed: but thej JhaU fpeal^ With the enemies in the aate.

From the feconddocliine.; Learn, I. The Lord will be fecri

inafpecial marmot in the withholding oc giving chilJren to

married perlons, and will have cUe benefit acknowledged when

He doth bellow it : Lo, children arc an heritage of the Lord, and

Xbe fruit of the mmbc is bis reward. 1. When God glveth ciil-

S l drca

260 PSALM E CXXVIII.

drenfor ableffing, he giveth grace, as to the Parents to brinj them well up, To to the children to be comfortable to their Parents, and to go about their Parents bufinefle, fo readily as ar-rowes out of thebowe. As arr owes are in the band of a mighty man, fo are children of tbcyotitb. $. In peace and war, dutifu children will do for their Parents, and for their Paftofs, Ma-giftrates, Rulers, as their fathers and mothers: for the Parent? who havcluch children, fb& 7 not be ajhmcd, but Jhallfperil mtl the enemies inibegxte. 4. Temporal benefits are then evidences of happineife, when the man is a believer in God, and a de-pender upon him, and is bleifed fpiruually by God : for of fuel only doth the Pfalmift fay, Happy is the man that bath bis quivc\ full of fi.cb arrowct) as gracious children, or gracious fubject: are.

PSALME CXXVIII.

'He fcope of this Pfalme is to (hew the bleflednefs of the mai _ that fearech God, which doth appeare : Firft, in the tern poral bleffing of him in his calling, v. 1, 2,. Secondly , in hi iamilie, v. 3,4. Thirdly, in pouring fpiritual bleffings upoi him, i/. 5,6.

T

Ver. I. Yy'Lejfed is every one that feareth tk LJL 0 RT> : that rvalkcth in hk wayes* 1. For thou fhalt eat the labour of thine hands happy (halt thou be, and it ftiall be Well ypitl thee. v

Prom the doctrine of the bleflednefs of the man that fcarctl God; Learn^ 1. That the fure evidence of a found believer and truly bleffed man, is the true fear of God, keeping himinth awe and reverent obedience of God : Blefjcd is every one tbx feareth the Lord, z, He is not the man that i earcth G od, who(

PSALME CXXVIII. 261

fc3r is taught by the Precepts of men, or who devifeth to hi™-• felfwayes of Gods fer vice, and bijidech fuperilitious bonds upon hii own confeience, buthe that walketh in the prefcribed paths of the obedience of Gods commands : only he fcarcth God, tbatmlkab inhisxoayes. }, The fear of God doth not confift with an idle life, bin requireth that a man according to his abilities mould be employed in fome lawful exercife, pro-fitable for the life of the incorporation where he liveth : for here the labour of his hands is prcfuppolcd 3 whereby Gods blcffing of him may be derived unto him ; Thou Jhalt cat the 'labour of tbinc bands. 4. It is no fmall favour from God; to have the right and com Portable ufe cf Gods benefits given unto us, and only the godly man who is painful in his calling, hath the pre-mile of this j Happy fialt thou be, and it frail be well rvitb tb c.

Ver. 3. Thy ftife (ha 11 be as a fruitful vine by the fides of thine houfejhy children like Olive-plants\round about thy table.

4. Behold, that thus fhall the man be blejfed, that feareth the LORD

From the fecond evidence, which isGodsbleffing of his fa-| milie 5 Learn, 1. Marriage is a ftite of life well befeeming the godly man, and it neither hindereth the fear of C/od, nor the mans felicity , but confifteth well therewith : Thy wifcJiM be as a fruitful vine. 2. Godlinefle is great gain, it hath the prc-mile of this life, (fo far as is good for us J and of the life to come: wife and children, and a table with maintenance competent for the fuftenance of the family, are branches of blefiid-nelTe,when beftowed upon a godly man, and fhould be fo b'.ked upon ; Tby wifejhaUbc as a fruitful vine by the fides of thy boufc : thy children li\\e Olive-plants round about thy Tabte-i* There is a reward tor the righteous, even in this life, and albeit it be not alwayes difcerned, yet he who ftulL behold and confuier Cjods providence about the godly man, ihall fee this temporal favour, or the equivalent granted unto him; therefore is it faid, £e-bold,tbui fch.u is, in this or the equivalent benefit,) JhalLtbt wan be blcfkdibat fcarcth the Lord.

S3 VerU

%(>% PSALME CXXIX,

t

Ver. 5. ThelORDfhaUbUffe thee out of Ziom And thou Jhalt fee the good of ferufalem^a/l the days of thy itfe

6. Tea, thou fbalt fee thy children* children : and peace upon lfraeL

From the third evidence of Gods bleffing of the true believer pnd fearer of his Name, by giving him things fpiritual > Learn, 1 1 What meafure foever of things tempoval the Lord fhall give to the man that feareth him, he referveth unto him nil the pro-mifes of righreoufneffe and life, which the Lords Word holdeth fijrthtb the Church , and ofthofehe fhall be lures The Lord Jhall bleffe thee out of Zion. 2. The godly man (hall not want iueceflion,if God fee it good for him or if not children of his bo* body, yet followers of his faith and footfteps in Piety 3 whom he hath oeea inftrumental to convert: Thoufialt fee thy cbildrcns cbi dren 3. What foever eftate the Church of God be in, during the godly mans life time, he fhall behold in the mirrout of the LoHs Word, and in the fenfible feeling of his own experience, he mail perceiyeand take up the bleffed condition of the triK Church of God, and rejoyce therein all his dayes ; Tbon Jhalt fee the go d of ferufzlm all the day^s ef thy life, thou foal fee peace upon IjtaeL

PSALME exxix.

nrHefcope of this Pfalmeis, to confirme the faith of God people agairift perfection. Thepans thereof are two: Th forma is, 'praiic to God for delivering many times his Churcl from the oppreffion of perfecutors, v. i, 2, 3,4. The otbe h3th a prophetical curfe againft the enemies of the Church

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P SAL ME CXXIX. 263

Vcrf. I. \/f^y a t'&t have thy tfflitted iSfxmz from myyouth , may Jfrael

now fay. 2. Many a time have they totted me from my youth : yet they have not -prevailedagainft me.

InpraifingGod for the Churches delivery lately granted ro her, hecalleth to minde many by pa ft perfecutions, wherein the Lord had preferved his Church frcm overthrew. Whence learn, I. The vifible Church from the beginning of tbe world is one body, and as it were one man, growing up from infancie to riper age: for 10 fpeaketh the Church here 5 &Liny a time fcave they afflicted me from my youth. 3. The wicked enemies of the Church, they alfo are one body, one adverfe armie, from the beginning of the world continuing war againft the Church: Many a time have they affliftei me from my youth. 3. As the former injuries done to the Church, are owned by the Church in after-ages, as done againft the fame body, fo alfo the perfection .of former enemies is imputed and put upon the fcove of prefent pcrfecutorsj Many a time have they afflifted me from my youth, may Jfrael now fay. 4. New experiences of persecution, when they call to minde the exercifes of the Church in former ages, ierve much for encouragement and confoJation in troubles: Many a time have they affliftei me, may Ifract novo fay. 5. Albeit this hath been the endeavour of the wicked in all ages to deftroy the Church, yet God hath ftill preferved her from age to age; let they have not ptcvailed.

Vcrf. 3, The P lowers flowed upon my back^x they made long their fnrrovces.

4. The LORD is righteotu: he hath cm afunder the cords of ike wickfd.

He repeateth the fame praife of God in delivering his Church S 4 from

from oppreffion oftheenemie, undei the fimilitude of cutting the cords of the plough, which tilleth up another mans field. Iflwice learn, i. The enemies oft he Church do no more regard lie:, then they do the earth under their feet, and do feck to make" their own advantage of her, asufurpers uleto'doin pofleffing and labouring of another mans field > The J?lower* plowed i:pon my back* **• The Lord ufeth to fufTer his enemies to break up the fallow ground of his peoples proud and ftifTe hearts with the plough ofperfecution.andto draw deep and longiurrows on them > They made long their furrowes. j. What the enemies do againftthe Church, the Lord maketh ufeofit, for manuring the Chuch, whit h is his field, albeit they intend no good to Gods Church, yet they fervein Cjods wifdom to prepare the Lords people for receiving the feed of Gods Word 5 for, the fi-milituaefpcaketh of their tilling of the Church, but nothing of their fowing, tor that is referved for the Lord himfelf, who is Owner of the field. 4. When the wicked have plowed fo much of (J 0 ^ s husbandry, as he thinketh good to fuffcr them, then he ftoppech their defigne, and loofeth their plough? He hath cut a-funder the 'cords of the wicked. 5. In aU the exercifeof the Church, and in all Gods patience towards the perfecutorsthereof, and in his delivering of the Church, and punifhing of the wickedj the Lord is upon a laudable work of chaftifing, humbling, trying and training his people to better fer vice, and (hewing of his mercy on his people, when they are humbled, and of his jufticc agiinft the wicked ; The Lord U rigbteoui, he hath cut \c> (under the cords of%hereu\ed.

Verf. 5. Let them all he confounded and turned Lackjhat hate Zion.

6.Let them be as the graffe upon the boufetops y Vthich mthereth afore it growth np.

7. ivhermth the mower fi/Uthno.t hti havi'.nor he that bindeth Jheaves y hij kofeme.

8, Neither do they Vvhich go by fay, The blejfing of the LORD be upon j oh : tee blejfe 7 oh in the Name

oftfolQRV.

1

Inthelatterpartcf the P'falmehc prayeth againft all the enemies

tnics of the Church, andciufah tticm. Whence learn, j.AIl thole are the enemies of ihe Church, who love her not, who leek not her welfare, who are glad when it goeth ill with her,and doenvieherprofpeiity i Tbcy bate Zion, i. Confufionof face and deftruction mall b$ their portiqn,. wqq are enemies to Gods people, and the Church may lawfully piay for it in the geneial: let them M be confounded^ and turned back, who hMe 2ion. '3. Albeit the trouble of the Church, vvhich me iuftaineth by perfecution, feem long, yet the time of the perfecutors is but "ihbrt, like the time of grajfe ontbeboufe top, which wither eth ere [it grow up 1 their glory isbut a vain fh^vv, like the gre&ineffe of grajfe on the houfe topi their high place is their ruin^as the houfc top expofeth the grajfe on it, to the greater heat ofthe Sun ; theirs 'ftrength wanteth roct, Ufa the grajfe on tbe houfe top, which wither etb before it grow up 3 wherewith the mower filleth not bis hand, nor he that bindeth fheaves, hisbofome. 4, To falute the reapers of the fields or any within .the vifible Church, whom we finde about their lawful labour or employment, and to pray God to fpeed them and blefle them is not unlawful, nor a taking of Gods Name in vain, (when done honeftly j for in the PCalm-ifts dayes, it W3S the laudable cuftome of Gods people, as they went by the reapers of the field, to fay, The bleffing ofthe Lord be uponyou, we bleffeyou in the Name of the Lord 5. It Is no fmall lofle, which the wicked perfecutors of the Church fuftainc by this, that their work is not bleffed untothem of theLord^and thai they fhall want the benefit of the prayers ofthe Church; for they [hall be as the grajfe t which cometh to no ripenefs nor good fruit, whereupon any man can crave a bleffing from God unto them.: they who go by them at thia their work, (hall net lay* TheMeJfingof the lord be upon you j webleffe you in the Narncof the Lord.

PSALME

t66 PSALMECXXX.

PSALME CXXX.

THisPfalme containeth theexercife of the Pfalmifr 3 wraft-ling under the fenfe of fin with fearful tentations, which were Hke to overcome him, wherein he prayeth for relief, i>. *, 2. op-pofeth Gods mercy to his juftice y v. 3 , 4. and waiteth for comfort, v. % % 6. then he bringeth forth the ufe which he makethof the relief and comfort which God gave unto him, by encouraging the Church to truft in Gods metcy, becaufe he will deliver hi* people from all trouble and fin, v. 7,8.

Vcr. r. 4~\Vt of the depths b*vt I cried unto \JWe0 LORD.

2> Lord, heare my voice, let thine tares be attentive to the voice ofmyfupplications.

Inthefirfttwoverfeswe have his diftrcflc, and prayer for relief in general termes. Whence lexrn, 1. The deareft Saints of God have been hardly exerciied by trouble in their fpirits > and brought into danger of defperation fometime, while they Teemed to themfelves to be in a loft condition, like a man ready to drown in deep waters: Out of the depths did I cry unto thee, O tord. %. How defperate foever our condition, or C3feofouc foul feem unto us to be* yet fliould we not ceafe from prayer unto God: Out of the depths hive I cried vnto thee, 0 Lord, $ Albeit our prayers feem to us fometime to be mifregarded of God, and negleded , yet fliould we not give way to fuch thoughts as thofe, but (hould double our petitions fo much the more, as ten-tationsdodiflwadeustopray, as the Pfalmift did: lord, bear my voice,, let thine ems he attentive to the voice of mj fuppli-citions*

Vcr. 3. lfthouXOKD^fbouldefl markiniquities: Q LORD, whofiattftdant 4. "Bat

4. But there itforgiveneffe with thee : that tho# majeftbefeared

Inthefetwo vcifcs, we have the objection made agalnft his prayer, from the confeience of his fins, according to the lawand his anfwer unto the objection from the mercy of God, according to the grounds of theGofptli Whence learn, 1. Sinfurniih-eth ground to all our vexations, and tentations, and objection* madeagainft our prayers 3 our comfort and our faith: as the experience of the Pfalmift doth teach usj againft whom his Iniquities here flood up, to hinder his anfwer from God. 2 Jn the cafe of confeience wherein fin is juftly charged upon us, there is no ihift for us todenyorexcufefin: it muft beconfefledand iaid open before God, as the Pfalmift doth here. $. If the Lord ftiould. deal with Supplicants in the way of ftri& juftice, according to the tenour of the Law or Covenant of works,' no man could efcape condemnation and the curie $ If thou, Lord y Jhouldeft mark iniquities, 0 Lord, who fhallftavJ} that is, no rnanfhouldftand. 4- He who is fled for refuge unto Gods mercy, according to the Covenant of grace in Chrift Jefus, may decline judgement according to the Covenant of works, and betake him unto the way of Juflification by faith, according to the Covenant of grace, whereby remiflion of finis promt fed to the beleever ; If thou, Lord, Jhouldeft mar^ iniquities, O Lord* who fall (land } but there is forgivenefs with thce.$.Jht belief of Gods mercifulnefle doth open our mouth in prayer, and encou-' rageth us unto the hearty worfhip, fervice and obedience of God, whereunto otherwife \ye could never have heart nor hand: But forgivencjfe is with thee, that thon mayeft be feared, 6. Then is ^race and mercy in God rightly made ufe of, when we feareto offend God, To much the more as we believe him to be gracious, to forgive the penitent Supplicant; Forgivcncjfe is with thee, that tboumayeji be feared.

V cr. 5. 1 a*Ait for the LORD, my foul both wait: and in his WordAo I hope*

6. UMffoule waiteth/or the LOKD,more then they that Vcttcb for the morning*. I fay, more then they that watch for the morning.

Having

Hiving prayed and ffrafiled by faith againft theterronrof Gods juftice, he waiteth for a goodanfwer, and for confoiati-on. Whence learn , i. Albeit the Lord doth not at firft heal the conscience of fin, and thefmartofit, yet the believ.er may furely exped comfort from him : I wait for the Lord. i.Th<:n doth faith its own part, when it framcth the heart to patient waiting on God, and hope in him; My [oule doth writ. 3. He that waiteth for a good anfwer from the Lord, muft have the WordofPromife, made in the Gofpel to fuchas feek mercy from Cjrod, for the warrant of his hope; My foul doth writ, and in his Word do I hope. 4. He that waiteth on God for comfort, fhould perfwadehimfelf of his fpeeding, and muft noc flack his hope for a delay, but grow in defire after the Lord, more then the Watchman waiteth for the morning; My fade waiteth for the Lord more then they that watch for the morning, J fay 9 more then they that watch for the morning,

Vcr. 7. Let Ifratl hope in the LORD, for -with the LORD there is mercy : and With him is plenteous redemption.

8. And he '{hall redeem Ifrgel from all his iniquities.

In the latter part of the Pfalme, it is prefuppofed he hath go-ten comfort, and here he exhorteth all the Lords people to follow his example, in the day of their outward trouble and perplexity ofconfeience, affurin^them of grace to be found in God to their full fatis fact ion. Whence learn, 1. When Cjol hath delivered us out of {traits, it is our duty to extend thetruitof that mercy as far as we may, and to exhort others according to our place,-to follow the way of faith in God 5 Lctlfrael hope in the Lord. 1. Mercy according to the Covenant of grace, gi vet h the fame ground of hope unto every one within the Church, which it giveth to the Pfalmift, or to a Writer of the Scripture; Lctlfrael hope in te Lord, for with the Lord there is mercy 3 faith the Pfalmift from his own experience. 5 . So many ftraits as the Lords people can fall into, Jo many cfcapes and deliveries hath the Lord in ft ore for them: With him is plentczm^ Redemption. 4. As fin is the root of all trouble, and the chief evil of Gods people : fo the remilRqh of fin is the chief cure of all their

trouble,

tioub'c, and this the believer may be furc of; He fiallrcdcem /(-net from iniquities, 5. When the Lord forgiveth im to his own, he forgiveth all fm leflc and more, whereof his believing childe is guilty; He flail redeem IfracL from all his iniquities. 6. The delivery of Gods people from fin and trouble, fioweah all from the Covenant olRedemption,and every delivery of them isa part of the execution of that Covenant: lVitbhim is plenteous Redemption, and befall redeem Ifrael from all bis iwi-quitics.

PSALME CXXXI.

Ver.

I. T -ORD, 07 heart is not haitghtifi nor jL^mirte e,es loftie : neither do 1 txer-cifemj [elf in great matters y or in things too high for me.

2, Surely I have behaved my felfe , as a childe that is weaned of his mother : my foule is even as a

we avred childe.

3. Let Ifraelhofe in the LORD, from henceforth arJfor ever.

"frN this Pfalme, the Prophet minding to'teachthe godly to be Xhumble before God,.however matters go with them, do:h pro* pound his own example, v. i, 1. that fo the* believer may per* fevcre in hope, v. 3. He proveth his humility by the lowlincfle of his heart, fob; iety of carriage ,and keeping himfeif within his vocation, v. i. and by the fubmifTionof his will unto Gods .difpenfation, v.z. the ufeand profit whereof, as he had found in Ihs own experience, 10 he recommendcth the following of his ex* ample unto all ^ods people,as the way to be conibnt in their hope, v. $. IVhev.cc learn, 1. Albeit pride be a rife vice, which utreiukth vaine man in cycry degree of excellency, and fuppofed worth in him, yet the grace of God is Mq to keep humble a wi.f , rich and potent man, yea to keep humble a King and Co.icjuerour: fori- is Pr.viwho iVufc here; LorJ, my kart is

not bwbtie. t. He who will approve himfeltin his humility unto God, muft purge his heart as the fountain from pride, and ' his eyes and outward carriage alfo, that they be not the fignes and tokens of pride, and watch over his actions, that they go not without the bounds of his calling, and commifllon given to fiim in Gods Word : Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor trine eyes lofty , neither do 1 exercife my (elfin great matters, or in things too 1>igb for me $ Albeit the moil excellent of men are but witlefs, weak and unclean things, comparable to young children lately weaned from the breaits, yet it is the property of the godly to know this, and acknowledge himfelt to be as achildethat n weaned of hit mother. 4. The Lord is as a mother, wife and tender toward his children, dealing with them as their age, weak* neiTe, witlefnefle, and other neceflities do require; for fo much doth the fimilitude lead us unto. 5 • The godly muft not look to befatisfied in their chtldi.fti will and appetite, but muft re-foive to be deprived of their carnal comforts, which naturally they rnoft anecx, as a childe weaned is put from the breaft to a more hard diet, this doth the compaiifon import. 6. The humble man muft be content to be handled and dealt with as the Lovd pleafeth, and to fubmit himfelf abfolutely unto Gods difpenfation, muft depend upon his care and favour, and wait for the manifefting of it, when and how it ihall pleafe God to difpofe, and this rnoft of all doth prove humility; CMy j ule is even as a weaned c\Ah % 7. The peace and cjuiet comfort of humility is fuch, as the humble man from his own experience may encourage every man to follow that way, with confidence to finde the benefit of it:for, Let Ifracl hope in the Lord, faith the Ffalmifthere from his own experience. 8. The fervant of God who defireth to perfevcre to the end, muft wait on God in the way of humility, and hope in him unto the end : Let Ifrad hope in the Lord, from heme forth and for ever*

From this doctrine we may have the defcription, both of a proud man,and of an humble. He is a proud man, who being ignorant or infcnfible of his finfulneiTe and infirmities, doth lift up himfelf in feme vaine confidence, to fellow fome unwar-l-antable ccurfe, for farisfying his own tninde, and will net fub -n?it himfelf unto Gods diipenfation. Again, he is an humble man, who inthefenfeof his fins and infirmities ftanduh in awe of Gods keepe:h himfelf within the bounds of his calling and cemmiffion, renounceth all confidence in his own wit,

and

and fubmitteth unto Gods dealing, in hope to be helped by God ,4n all things, as he ftandeth in need.

PSALME cxxxii.

IN this Pfalme the Churches taught to pray, according to the Covenant made with David, reprelenting Chrift: Firft, for the maintenance of true Religion, to v. 10. Next, for the continuing cf the Kingdom in his race, and prefervation of the Church of Ifracl, and fo of the Kingdom and Church of Chrift figured by it:In the firft petition, he prayeth for the Lords affe-&iotfttc and effectual remembrance of David, and of thefufrer-ings undergone by David, for maintaining his .Covenant with God, v. 1 .And then, calleth to minde the care which David had in fetling of the place of Gods worihip, *>.*> fjjfe f t Thirdly* he fheweth,how after She Lords departing from Sbihb,his Arte was round in f^iriatb-jearim, and thence brought up to the City effDkvid; v. 6. Fourthly, the Church profeflech her willingnefs and purprie to wormip the Lord, now afcinded unro Mount Sion, v. 7, 8. Andfiithly, he prayeth for holine-fie of doctrine !n the Lords Mmiiters , and joy to-the godly in obeying them, x>. 9. In the-next petition, firft, the Church prayeth {orthe Covenant fake made with David, that the Lord would not v/ithdraw his countenance-from hisoff-fpnn*, v.iq. Then> roftreng'hen their faith in the petition, they repeat the Covenant 0/ God made with David, as We have ic, Pfal, 89 concerning his off- ipring, and mainly concerning Chrift, v. it, 12. Thcn,they pray concerning the Temple and City oijeru'ahm, reprefentingthe univevfat Church, 1;. 1 j, 14. and concerning his Miniftery,i/. 15,16. and concerning the increafe of Chrifts Kingdome, and for confufion of his enemies, v. 17, 18. for lvemuft not conceive this prayer delivered to the Church for *he ufe of all ages, to have the full accompJimment, except Chrift and his Church and Kingdome be mainly comprehended and aimed at in if.

From the whole Pfalme in general; Learn, 1. There is a pet^etual Kingdom and Prieithood, appointed to be efhbliftud

among

among the people of God in his Church, as the prayer given to the Church, to be applied and made ufe ot in all ages, doth 2 us to underftand, and this is the Kingdom and Priefthood of Chrift, 2. As the evident appearing of this Kingdome and Priefthood of Chrift, mould bedear to the hearts of all Gods children, fo mould amplication daily be made to God, that this his Kingdome may come, with its own bleiling following upon i:, as the Church is taught I

Vcr.i. T ORD, remember VavU^ and aU hk

Y^ajflittiQns+

Inthefirftpctidon 3 Leirn, 1. Seeing the Covenant taads with Puvii, dpeciatiy concerning fure rnercics, was known mainly to belong to Chrift, and to concern the Church and e-very member thereof ; ic is witoom for the Church in all ages zo Jook to their inte;eft in this Covenant, and to hold up k God the memory and ufe thereof, as here the Church is taughe to do : Lord remember Vivid , that is, remember the Cove made with Vrcid in type, and with Chrift represented by him* 2. Albeit the Lord can properly forge: nothin $, ye: he is fnd to lemembcr, when he by effectual working teftineth his no: i ng > this is the remembrance which the Siints do here pray ; Lord, remember Ttjvjd. $. The Covenant made with Da* vid and with Chrift, conlithth well with afSidions probatory on I>Jxtii part, and expiatory on Chrifts part, and neither the one ftrt nor the other wanted their own refpects with God, but Chvifts afflictions being redemptory and meritorious, sremoft to be heeded by the Church; Remember *D>iz id, and all bis njfliftions. 4. Whatfoever care the godly h.we to p*o-mote Gods honour, whatfoever grief and iorrow they bear when they rlnde oppofition, or wan: fucceftein this their endeavour, whatfoever.trouble and perfecution they fuller in the maintain* in* or promoting of Gods cauCe, all is reckoned up unto them as parts of fet vice, which God will not forger to follow with mercy to them, and to theirs after them > Lord, remember Da Jd y jrd dll kkiflUftions*

Vc-

Ver. 2. 'Hoft be f79ate unto the LORT), and vowednnto the might) God f Jacob.

3. Surely I-will not ccme into the Tabernacle of my houfe : nor go up into my bed.

4. / rvM not give Jleep to mine ey es .• or (lumber to mine eye-lids.

5. Vntil I finde oat a place far the LORD xan habitation for the mighty God of Jacob*

In the fccond place is fee down the care which TZavid had to fettle the worftiip of God in the land $ what time this Vow and Oaih was made by Druid, it is not fpecified in any other place of Scriprure, neither is it needful for us to be curious about the time or torme of words; for the meaning is not, as if David on a certain day, being ignorant of the place of fetling of Gods Ark and building the 1 emple> did limit Goi to reveal it unto him ete night came ; but the meaning is, that David fworc to * have a care of the ietli ng oi Gods A: k before he tetlen his own houic, and that he would no<-enjoy the commodities which his royal Palace (not isyetbuilded) might yield unto him, before he law the \ ik fetled in the place where the Tt mple ihouli be built. Whence learn, \. Ins lawful \o tie oar (elves by an Oa:h unto that duty, whereunto we were abfoluteiy tied by law beicre : yea, and it may fometiims be expedient ro tie our felves umoadutyb fweaiing, for evidencing our hearty purpofe to follow that duty cheerfully^ and for itir ring up of ou" felyesfo much the more to follow it, as we a econlciousof ou. flacknefle u toil, or retblenefle to refft temptations; for here Dazii faareunto the Lord, that he would difdmge fuch a duty. 1 A lawful Vow is a part of divine worfliip,duc to be msrfe to Gc: a-lonc ; ror David offered this eligions worftiip to God only: He vtoM/1 unto the mighty god of Jacob. *. The O nnipoten-cy ot God is the treafure of the Churches ftren^th, whe ein every believer hath an intercft; Fc is lb it mighty one of zfaeob, A. The cave of Gods pubbek worfhip, and eft blifhing of Religion, where we have place and power, ihould be maieearneft and greater in every true fubjec* of Qrdds Kingdom, then the caie of his own p. ivatc affaires, and in the c.Ue of competition at\\ T eo.

comparifon,thefetlingofGpds worfhip ftiould be preferred before out* fcriing in any worldly commodity ; as the example of Puv/^htfedoth teach us.

Verf, 6» £0, wt heard of it at Ephrata : vte found it in the fields of the wood.

In the third place, the Church [peakech and compareththe fetled condition of the Ark now with the fleeted condition wherein it was before, for it was fomctime in Sbilob, in the tribe of Epbraim, and now fay they; Lo, we beard of it at Epbrata : arid when it was in a manner loft, being taken by the Phili-ftines, they fay, they found as a thing once loft, the Ark in ^Jri-atb-jemnt, or City of the woods; We found it in the fields of the wood, and now it is fetled will they fay, we know where to finde it eftablifhed : for this to be the Churches meaning is given us to underftand in the next verfe, wherein they fay : We will go up into his tabernacles. Whence learn, i, The prefence of the Lord in his Ordinances, was never fo fixed in any place but that mercy may be turned into a ftory of, It was or hath been : if itbeabufed, as what the Lord did to his houfe in Sbilob, was a hiftory in the dayes of the Kings, Lo 3 we have heard of it: {'that is, of the Ark of the Covenant) at Epbrata. z. When once ifne Lord hath fleeted the tokens of his pretence far out of a land, ir is tfrare mercy and unexpected, and no leffe then is the findi;-. ig oi a treafu/e, or of a loft jewel, to fee the reftoi ing of his O d r. m.cs again, as was to be f^n when God broughr back tfte A-k f om thePhdiftinesto JSjrixtb-jcirimi which mercy the Church he-.*e acknowledged > We found it in the fields of the wood. 3.v The way of God, about the mewing of his prcfencc in his holy Ordinances in any place, is not as men may expect, but as God feethgood todnpoie,, as the Churches fpeech gi-veth us to underftand ; We found the Ark. *» the fields of the

Ver, 7, Wt will go into hUTabcrntfles; W* mil vtorjhip at hhfootftooli

8. Arife^ 0 LORD into thy refi % thon and the Ar\ oftbyftrength.

In the fourth place, the Church ftirrcth up her felt to wor-fbip God in 5 ion , where the Ark, ren* cfenting Chnlt, was placed, praying now for the benefit of Godsprefence, as Mofes prayed at the marching and fctling of the Aik. Whence letrn* I. When God hath revealed his will in any point of Religion, we fliculd without delay or difpute go follow his direction, as the Church doth here, when the Ark is fetitc in 6 ion ; Wt wilt-go into bis Tabernacles. 2. Where the Lord hltfa promiiedto be found, there muftwe come and keep cruft with him, and worftiip him : Wc will go intohistabernnl s, we mtt/mrfbi^ at his foot [tool. 3. The trneworfliippe inuft lift his lninde a-I bove every external and viiible Ordinance of God, and feek him in heaven where his glory fhineth molt, counting all things on the earth no more but as his footftool: for fo was the Church of ol-d directed to do, when they had the Lord moft fenfj.blymanifefting;himfejf inlus Tabernacleand Tempie: Wc will worjhip at his footftool. 4. The Church in altcr-ages may call for, and expect the like benefit of Gods prefence with his Ordinances, which his Church in former ages hath found* • as the prayer of the Church here, being one with the payer of . the Church in the wilderneife, doth teach us: Arife, 0 Lord, as A/ofex faid, when the Aik did remove. $. The Ark of the Covenant was the figure of God incarnate, the type of Chrift in whom the fulnefle of the Godhead dwelleth bodily, and therefore, after the manner of Sacraments, the figne receiveth tht name of the thing fignified j tArife, 0 Lord> thou andthitArft 'cfihy ftrcngth.

Vcrf. 9. Let thy Priefts be clothed with righteouf-ntffe : and let thy Saints /bout for jcy.

Now he dofeththe firft petition with a prayer for GadiMef-fin^of hisMinilte s.ip.d of their Minifteiy amengthe people; Wkncelcxrn, 1. Where the Lord is received,'he mull havei Minifte.s, men fct apart for his publick wor/hip and fervice, ?s the Prayer for the Prieftsdoth prcfuppofe. 2: The chief badge T 2,

276 PSALM E CXXXII.

and cognisance of the Lords Minifter, is the true dodrine of juftifuation and obedience of faith in a holy convention; Let 4 thy Priejis be clothed with rightcoufneffc. 3. People have rea-ion to rejoyre, who have the benerir of luch approved Minifters; and whomever do really embrace the true doctrine ot juftib*cation by gaace,wheieby men j.ftified by faith, become the fcr-vantsof rightcoufnefs inrheir life, are indeed Saints, and are called to rejoyce > Let thy ricfti be cloatbed with righteonf?icffe> and let thy Saints Jhout for joy. 4. It is 'he duty of the whole Church to pray for fut h a Mini itery,and for fuch effv&ual blcf-img following on it, as may make finners 6ecome Saints^ and fad fouls to fing for joy, as here is prayed for.

Verf. 10. For thy fervant Davids fakei turnenot away the face of thine anointed*

The fecond maine petition is, for the manifeftation of Gods refpeft nmoDavids off-fpring, wherein under the figure of • a-vids fucceffors in the Kingdom, he prayeth for the Kingdome of C briftj as before he prayed for his Prieflhood. Whence learn, 1. Every faithful a ember of the Church fhould pray, as for the Churches welfare, fo alio for the welfare of the fupreme Magi-itrate, and of the Civil State whereof they are members: for fo runneth the prayer here in the figure : Tunic not away the face of thine anointed % to wit 5 the King of iff id, for whom they pray, that he benot put to fhame by difappointment of hishopes.2.The Lords anointed, or the fupreme Ruler of the Lords people y fbould be a daily Supplicant unto God, and a depender upon him : for the petition doth prefuppofe, that his face was toward the Lord, praying to him and waiting for good from him: Turnenot aw xy the face of thine anointed 3. The Lords Covenant is of great refpccTt with God, and mould benv.de much uk of by us, as here we are taught j For thy fervavt Davids [afc, tume not away the face of thine anointed, that is, for the Covenants fake made with 'David in the uype, and with Chiift represented by him, refute not Ms lawful petitions. 4. The truth intended in the type, teacheth us that the interceffion of Chrift for his fubjecrs,{ha!l never mifcarey, nor (hall thrift be refund in wiathe willeth tobedone to or for his fubjects: for in hi n the prayer is lurely heard: Chrift that anointed

PSALME CXXXII. 277

One cannot be refufed, nor any who truly do pray in his * Name,

Verf. ii. The LORD hath ftoomem truth unto David, he will not turne from it : Of the fruit of thy body will I fet upon thy throne.

12. If thy children Willl^ep my Covenant and my Teftimony, that 1 Jhall teach them, their children alfo /hallJit upon thy throne for evermore.

For ftrengthening of faith in thispetition, he calleth to minJe more particularly the Covenant of God with David Whence lcarn> 1. Every Word and circumftance of Gods promife, is worifty to be looked upon, and well con^dered, as this example teach-eth us. 2.VVhofoever do feck a bencfit,according to Gods Word , ought firmly to believe the promife of it, and to reft upon the liability of the prom ife, as here we finde the example! the Lord hath (mrne, be mil not turne from it. g. Albeit the promife, that Chrift Ihould come of David be ibfolute, and feiled with an Oath, yet the promifes of temporal things nude to 7)avid, are conditional, as God mould fee fit to give them, and as his children should carry themlelves in Gods obedience, lb Ihould they have temporal benefits, and fucceed him in the tempo al throne: If tby children will keep my Covenant and my tcftimonics, thy children alfo jhallfit upon thy throne for evermore,

Ver. 13. For the LORD hath]chofen lion: be hath dejired it for his habitation,

14. This is my reft for ever: here will 1 d^tlU for I have dcfired it >

Hcgiveth a reafon for theabfolute promife of Chrift s coming to rule the fpiritual Kingdom of Ifrael, or the Church, becaufe the Lord had chofen Zion in the type, and the univerfal Church under the figure, to be his chofen Temple an J lubiution,whe;e-in he delighted. Whence learn, 1. Where God will fettle his Sanduary, there he will fettle his Kingdome alfo: Sion mail not want a Kingi for the reafon here, why the Lord will with T $ an

278 PSALME CXXXII.

an oath fet up one who (hall be the frui: of Davids body upon the throne, is, Eccaufe be bath cbofen Sion. 2. The Lords J pitching upon any place to dwell in, o: per Ions to dwell among, cometh note Fch worthineffe of the place, or perfons, but from Gods good plealure alone. For the Lord batb cbofen Sion, be hath dtfired it for bis habitation. 3. The Lord refteth in his love towa . \ his Church , accepting the perfons, prayers, ani fervice o his chofen people: he fmelleth a fweet fivour in Chrift here, and his love roaketh his feat among his people ftcd-faft : This is my rcjl y I have defired it 4 What is promifed under typical figures, is really everlafting, not in regard of the figure, but in regard of the (ignification : For tbk h my reft for everts true only in refpecVof the Church, repvefeir.ed by Sion, 5. Noreafonis to be craved for Gods everlafting good will to any perfon or incorporation; his pleafure may fuffice foracaufe: This is my reft for ever,here mill 1 dwell, for lb Ave defircd it, or have pleafure hit.

Verf. 15. 1 Will abundant lj bleacher prrvifon: I mil fatitfie her poor with bread.

16. 1 willalfocloathher Priefls^Qitb(alvation\ and her Saints (hall Jbottt aloptd for joy.

The reft of thearticles of the Lords Covenant with David, are io many promifes which the Lord doth make concerning the blefling of the Minifters of Chrift,unto the Churches good, and theencreafeof Chrifts Kingdomc, in defpite of his enemies, inthelaftverfes.

From the promife made concerning the»blefTing of the Mini* ftery for the peoples goods Leapt, 1. The true fubjects of Chrift, .ihall not want the meanes of fpiritual life,fpiritual meat, drink, cloathing, and whatfoever is ncceflary for their falvation ; I will abundantly bleffeher provifion. 2. The difpenfation of good things unto Gods children, is fuch as (hall make them lcnfible of their own infufficiency ', they are not exempted from feeling their wants, and being in ftraks, but as they feel their need, fo fhall they be provided for : every evil which they feel, fhall have a perfect remedy in Chrift ,and in his Word, which fhall fatis-fie the needy foul: I mil fatUfie her poor with brczd 3. Chrifts " y ■ J * Church

Church (hall neither want Minifters, nor (hall his fern Minifters want commi(fion for teaching of faving truth, but ftiall be cloathed with authority to preach and toproclaime fa 1 vat ion to the believers: I will alfo cloaib her Pricfts with falv&tion. 4. The Minifters of righteoufnefs teaching the true way of junification, and obedience off aith, are alfo the Minifters of ialvation : for the cloathing of the T>rlefts with rigbteoufnejfc, v. 9. is here, the cloathing of them with falvation. $. Comfort and joy fhall the Lords people have, who do imbrace aMiniftery cloathed with commi(lion to hold forth righteoufnefle and falvation in Chrift unto them : Her faints fbaUJhout aloud for joy.

r - ^ * T ft

Vcrf. 17. There^ill I make the home ofT>avid to bud) I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed.

18. Hid enemies Vvill 1 cloath with fhame: but u\>on himfclfe fiaHhii crouton fionriflu

Prom the promifes made in favour of Chrifts Kingdcmej Learn y 1. As£/<minthe type was the place where Chiift ma-nifefted himfelfe King oflfrael, fo alfo the Church mainly fig-nified by it, is the place and incorporation, wherein CHrift is to be feen manifeftly to be King : There wilt 1 make the home of David to bud. 1. The glory.of typical! Da-vids Kingdome, was revived in Chrift the true David ; the budding of Chrifts Kingdome in Jerufalem, was tie budding of Dtfi/iijKingdome in a more glorious way then ever his temporal Kingdome flourifhed: There will I mah^c the home of *Da-vidtobud. 3. This is the Crown and accomplishment of the Churches felicity, that ihe hath Chrift for her King: There wilt J mafe the borne of David to bud. 4. How low focver Chrifts Kingdome can be brought in the world, yet it is fixed as 3 well rooted tree, it is rooted as the home of an Unicorne; although it may feem gone, or fo weak as it cannot fubfift, yet it (hall bird and grow in defpite of all oppofition: There will I ma^c Ok borne of David to bud. 5. It is no wonder'to fee adverfaries oppofing Chrifts Kingdome, for it is here foretold and prefup-poled: His enemies will I c loath with flume. 6. Albeit the enemies of Chrift do promife tothemfelves advantage, by their opposition made unto Chrift, and hope to oycrturnc his Kinj-

T 4 domes

a8o P SAL ME CXXXIII.

dome, yet have they all been, and (hall beafliamed for ever of their expectation, whofoever do hate his Kingdome.- His enemies will I cimb tvitb fame, which they (hall not be able to hide, but mud put on and walk therein, as a man doth in his garments. 7. Ttie mote Chrjft is oppofed, the mo-e ihall his fplendor,ani glory grow in the world: But upon bimfelfe jhatl bis crown flourijlu v

PSALME CXXXIII.

J. how good, and how pit

for brethren to dfte/l together

Ver. 1. Ty£k*lA. ko»good, and homo pleafant it

tn unity.

2 % It is like the preciom ointment upon the K Joetd* that ranne down upon the beard, even Aarons beard: and went down to the skirts of his garments.

3. As the dew of Her won: and as the dew that defcended upon the mountaines of Sion ^ for there the Lord commanded the bleffing ; even life for evermore*

This Pfalme doth fit the condition of Gods people, inZU-vids time,when after iheir civil wanes they were brought to an happy unity in Religion, and civil Government. This fart of concord and communion of Saints is hce commended to the phurch as both pleafant and profitable. The goodneffe of it is fpokeno^v. I. The pleafontneffeof it, v. 2. The profitable-neffeofit, y. $,. Whence l&ivn, 1. Thofe are moil fit to put £ price, and right tftimarion upon peace and concord, who have

feen a- d felt the evil of difcord and contention's T>avids experience proveth 5 for this is a Pfalme of David, who had proofe -

both o( warre and peace, i 9 The fruits of peace in the reformation,

tion of Religion, and of civil Judicatories, dofo redound unto the comfort of all families and private perfons, as the good of concord maybedemonftrated ienfibly : Behold, how good it til $. Such a concord is true concord;, and worthy of tic Mame* which doth unite the members of the vifiblc Chut^h,as brethren, or children of one Father, in the true Religion 3 for the mutual difcharge of all the duties of love: How g ed is it for brethren to dwell together inunity\ 4. Seme things are pleafant and not prontable,and fome things are profitable and not pleafant, but the concord of Gods people, or holy peace within the vifible Church in any place, is both pleaiant and profitable : Behold, how good a >d pleafant it is, for brethren t» d>> U together in unity. 5. This bleffing is not to be expected by any, but through Chrift, on whom the oile of gladntfie, and all the graces of the Spirit are firft poured out, and then from him are carried to the meaneft member of his body : a<? Adrons head being anointed with oile, the benefit of it extended it felf to the utter-moft borders of his garments* forthe iimilitude borrowed from Aarons anointing, as the type of Chrifl, doth teach us fo much: It is Ufa the precious ointment, (^c. .And this fimiii.ude repre-fenteththe pleaf.ntnetfe of concord, the fweet fmell whereof refreflicth all that have any fpiritual fenfe. 6. As dew maketh the herbs and trees to flourifh. for the utility of man: fo is concord profit ible to the Church and State * As the dew of Hermon, cr dew }bit defended upon the mountaincs of Sion. 7. Where holy concord maketh its refidence among brethren dwelling together in unity, there the bleffing of the God of peace in this life, and for the life to come; makes its refidence alfo: there the Lord commanded the bleffing, even life for evermore* 8. This bleffing oi brethren living in the unity of the Ipirit and bond of peace,isnot promifed only,but alfo 'here is an eveilafting order given forth from the Supream Ruler of all things, for the forthwith applying of the bleffing efte&ually to thole tha-r thus live together: there the Lord commanded the bleffing, even lift for evermore.

PSALME

aSz PSALME CXXXIV.

PSALME CXXXIV.

In thisfhortPfalme,the Spirit of the Lord, by the mouth of the Pfalmift, exhorteth the Lords Miniftcrs to go about the ex-erciTe of their publick Miniftery, in praying, preaching and praifing Goa> v* i, *♦ and blefling thecongregation met together, v. $ i

Vcrf. I. YyEhold,hieffeyethe LO R D: all ye

Xj fervants of the LORD: which

by night fiand in the hottfe of the

LO R T) .

2. Lift up your hearts in the Sunttuary : and

tlejfe the LORD.

From the exhortation to the Lords Minifters; Letrn, L The publick worfliip of God is to be carefully looked unto : and ailmeh>butefpeciallyMinifters 3 had need to be ftirred up to take heedtothemfelves 3 andto the work of Gods publick worfliip when they go about it; for fo much cfoth bcholdy in this place import. 2. The fcope and fpecial end of publick worfliip is to fet forth the blefiednefle of God in himfelfe, and in his operation for, and toward his Church : for all the parts of publick worfliip and fervice, in prayer, reading of Scripture, preaching, praifing,andth?.nk(^ivin2^ri?\gingpf ; Pfalmes., and blefling of the people,do aimeat this ' 'Behold) blefleyc the Lord. 3. The difcharging of'hepablick worfhipof God,requircth that there be publick Mipiftcrs appointed by God, and feparate A unto this holy function; Blcffeyctbc Lord, n 1 ! ve frrv.tnts of the Lords 4. Itwascomrti' uied in the La/;, Ex^> 17> *o> *<• that fo foon as day-light began toj fall at even, lamps fhould belight-ed 3 and fhine all night in ihe Tabernacle, till »■ he morning, and that the Priefts and Levis fhould by courfe waite upon his fervice, that there fliould not be datknefle in the Lord houfe,

bu:

bat light alwayes night and day : whereby was fignified, that howfoevcr the world lieth in the darknefle of ignorance, offinnc and mifery, yet in the Lords Church remedy againft all thofc evils and relief from them is to be had; and that God hath ordained Minifters, and' publick Officers, to cntenainc and held forth the fliiningof the light unto the Church; and to this end not to Hand to break their nights reft, when the fervicedoth call for it: Blcjfe the Lord, all ye fervants of the Lord, -which by night Jlavd in the boufe of the Lord. 5. Prayer to God, as the mouth ofthe people, is a part of the office of the Lords Miniftcrs: for io much is imported by pointing at the ccftureofthe fupplicant: Li ft up your bands in the Sanctuary, that is, in the place where the people aflemble. f. To praife the Lord, and to teach the people what the Lord is, what bieffed-nefle is to be found in him, and how they ffiould acknowledge this, and make ufe of it, is another part of the Minifiers officer Lift up yonr hands in the Sanftuary, and blcjfe the Lord.

Ver. 3. The Lord that wade heaven and earth: tfeffe thee out of Sion.

Inthisverfcthe Lords Mtnifters as they are directed, fo they go about to bleffe the people out of Sion, in the Name of the Lord: OutofSion,beaLuk there was the Arke of the Covenant, the figure of Chrift, God incarnate, through whom alone the Lords bleffing is derived unto his Church. lV)nncQ learn, 1. All men lie under the curfe,till God bring them into the fellowship of his Church, and pronounce them blefled by his Word, as, ThcLo*d blcjfe thee^ doth import, z. It is apart ofthe office of the Lords Minifters, to pronounce with authority Gods bleffing upon his people, which is no more then a wifh or prayer for them ; for rhey are lent of God with com-miffiontofay, The Lord blcjfe tbee, $. No bleffing is to be expe&ed but from Chrift, reprcfented by the Arke ofthe Covenant, which was in Sion : The Lord blcjfe thee out of Sion. 4. The confidence of the believer to obtain whatfoever is promised in the Lores Word, is builded upon the Covenant of God, andtheomnipotcncyof'Godrand what can afoul ftand in need of, which this fountains cannot yield ? The Lord tbit made heaven and earth, blcjfe tbec out of sion.

PSALME

2$4 P SAL ME CXXXV.

PSALME. CXXXV.

THefcopeofthis Pfalme, is to fct forth the praifes of the Lord : wherein there is an earneft exhortation of all the Church, and of all the Lords Minifters to praife God, v t i,i, $. wheieuntoare added feven motives or reafons 3 from v. $, to v 12. In the next place, the Pfalmift turneth his fpeech towards the Lordj and praifcth him $ and giveth two reafons more for the praifing of God, v. 13,14,1?, 16, 17, 18. In the third pi ice, more ipecially he cxhorteth the Minifters, and every particular member of the Church to praife God, and fo dofeth with bleffins; of him.

Vcr. I. TyRaifei/e the LO RD y praife ye the I Name of the LOKT) : praife him, O jefervants of the LO RD. 3. Ye that fi and in the Houfe of the LORD, in the courts of the Houfe of our Got).

In the exhortation dire&ed to the wholeChurch, and to the Miniftersj Lexrn> 1. The work of praifing God, fliould be gone about aftedionatelyi and unto it fhould weftirreup our felveSj and oth*.' s with all our might: as this manifold exhortation to praife the Lord, and fingpraife> doth teach us. 2. That which is fpoken or manifeftcd of God, muft be carefully taken notice of, that he may be praifed out oi knowledge: for he will not have praifes, but as his Word doth direct. for this doth, praife the Home of the Lord y import. $. The publick Minifters of Gods Houfe, who >ne fet apart for teaching and leading $f the people in his fervice, by reafon of thei,r Office and imploy-mentjmuftftirreup themfelves unto this wo'/k of praifing God, (ivhatfoever may be their own private condition, fad or joy r ull: for their obligation fo to do is greateft, Pnife bim y 0 ye Saints of tbcLordiOyefcrvws of the Lord. 4. As our priviledgcs

a>* e

PSALME GXXXV. 28j

are more then the reft of the world, by being in Covenant with God and admitted to have room, in the holy affemblicsof his peoplej fofhould our care to praifc Go i be the greater 5 It that ftand in the boufe of the Lord, in the Courts of tie boufe of our God.

Vcrf. 3. Praife the LORD, fir the LORD is good : (ing praifes unto his Name,for it ispleafant.

# He infifteth in the exhortation, and beginneth to give reafons to move us to praife God. Whence team, 1. The Lord is worthy to be praiied, not only for his effential goodnefle , but alio for the letting forth thereof on rhe creatures, and towards his people moft of all ; Praife the Lord, for the Lord is good: ami 'this is the firft reafen or motive to praife. 2. Singing of the Lords pi ai fes is a pa* t of the moral wcrlbip of God, and fliould be done with chee* fulncfle of heart, as a work wherein we re-joyce to be employed ; Sing praifes unto his Name. 3. The woik of praifing God, ha: h a fort of reward joyned with it: when we praifc God meft, we get moft benefit by fo doing : it is fo comely in it felf, fo pleafant unto God, and profitable to the per-fon that oftereth praifes, fo fit to chear up his fpirit, and ftrength-en his r aith in God, who fe praifes are the pillars of the believers confidence and comfort, that a man fhould be allured thereunto: Sing praifes unto his Name, for it is plcafunt; and this- is the fecond motive or reafon to praife God*

Vcrf. 4. For the LORD hathchofen Jacob unto hlmfelfe . anb lfrael for hu peculiar treafure.

The third reafon of praifing God is, becaufe he hath by electing 2/rtfe/, put a great refpect and price upon his people. Whence learn, i.TheJewes havearefpeft of honour put upon them, (how unworthy foever they hive proved themfclves of it many times,,/ aboveall the Nations of the world, in that God hath cho*en them 10 b^ his people, among whom he will alwaycs haveachofen number, which of no other Nation can be faid : For the L ord batbebojen ficob unt$ bimfetf. i.The Lords Covenanted

186 PSALME CXXXV.

Venanted people are no lefle precious in his eyes, then a peculiar treafure is in a mans eyes 5 tie barb ebofen 1 fad for bis peculiar treafure.

Ver. 5, For I know that the L ORD is great : and that our LORD is above all gods.

The fourth reafon ofGods praife is, becaufe the Lord is greater then all earthly,yea,then all imaginable excellencies in ihe world, as theChurch doth both believe and know by experience. whence learn, 1. The largenefle of Gods dominion over all Nations, and over all imagined excellency of the idols of the Gentiles, doth commend the mercy of God to that Nation, which he doth prefer unto the reft, by taking them in Covenant with himfelf; The Lord is great, and our Lord is above all gods, % As the Lord doth by his extraordinary working for his people make manifeft his glorious and great majeitie to them, b fliould they fo much the more for their experience praife him before all the world : For I know tbat tbe Lord is gmt, and cur Lord is above allgods,doth import not only the Pfalmifts belief of the point, and experience of the truth thereof, but.alicj hispradiceoftheduty.

Ver. 6. whatfoever the LORD pleafed y thu did he in heave n^and in earth: in the feas, and all decpe places.

The fifth reafon of Gods praife, ferving alfoto confirm the former reafon isj becaufe God is the Omnipotent Creator, and abfolute Governour of all things^ difponng of them as he pleafeth* Whence learn, 1. The gre^t woiks of Creadon, Su-llentation, and governing all things, dolhcvv the Lords great-neffe, and do furnilh matter of his praife: iVbatfocvcr tbe Lord pleafed, that did be in heaven and in eanb, in tbe fea and dll dccpflaces. 2. The Lords will and pleafurc is the meafure of the extending of his Omnipotcncy, and no further muft we extend his power unto action, then his revealed will giveth warrant 5 IVbatfoever the Lord pleafed : that did be. 3 - The Lords

will

Willis thefovercignandabfolutecaufe of all his working, and that whereon all mens faith and reafon rauft reft 5 Wbatfocvcr bcplcafed 3 bedid.

Ver 4 j. He caufeththe vapours to afcend from the ends of the earth* he maketh lightening* for the raine , he bringeth the V&inde out of his tre*-fhriti*

The (Txth reafon of Gods praife is, becaufe there is no motion in the clouds or in he aire, but that which he maketh. Whence learn, There is none of the motions of the creatures fo light or variable, which are not wrought by God, and wherein his providence doth not actually put forth it felf in vapours, clouds^rain, lightnings, windesand all: Hecaufetb the vapours to afcetid from the ends of the earth, be maketh lightnvigsi for the raine, be bringeth the veinde out of bis treajuries^

Ver. 8. who [mote the fir [I-borne of Egypt ; both ef man and be a ft.

9. Who fent tokens and wonders into the midfl of thee ,0 Egypt , upon Pharaoh, and upon all his ftr-*vants>

10. Who [mote great Nations \ and flew mighty Kings.

11. Sihon King of the Amorites, and Og King of Eafhan : and all the Kingdomes of Canaan.

12. tAndgave their land for an heritage: an heritage unto lfrael bis people*

Thefevcnth reafon of Gcds praife is, for his wonderful Redemption of his people out of Egypt^ni powerful overthrow of ; the Canaanites, and placing of his people in their voomJVhcnce learn, 1. The Lords working for his Church in former times, is matter of praifingGod in all aftei-agcs: as this example of 1 the mentioning fo oft of tbejlaugpicr oftbefirft-boruofE-

g)Pb

2*8 PSALM E CXXXV.

gypt botbvf manandbeaft, doth teach. 2. Gods working for bis people is fuch, that their enemies being pofed, muft acknowledge his wonderful ads: He (cut tokens and wonders in the mid ft of thee, O Egypt , upon Pharaoh and all bis fervants* 3. When God engageth for his people, he will overtop the migh-tieft Kings and Kingdomes, and tread them under jn favour of his Church; iVbo [mote great Nations, and flew mighty things, Sib on \{ing of the Hmorites, and 0% tiding of Bajhan, and all tbelijnglomes of Cxiiain. 4. The care of God for his people is indefatigable, he ceafeth not to prdfecute begujg^fa* vours, till he biin° them to an end : He iolloweth I/rdc/J**Re-demption out of Egypt, till he give them pofTeffion of Canaan, 5 Albeit there be difficulties and opposition to the fetling of Gods people in their poffeffion* yet the wo/k goeth on> and muft be perfected ; and the dole of Gods work is no lefle glorious then the beginning ot it: He gave their land for an heritage, an heritage unto Ifrael bU people.

Verf. 13. Thy Name, 0 LORt), endureth for ever : and thy memorial , OLORD, throughout all generations.

Inthefecond place> the Pfalmiilturneth his fpeech toward the Lord, and praifrth him yet more .• and then, in the following verfes addeth other tworeafons of hisprai/ing God. From this verie, Learn, 1. What the Lord doth declare himfelf to be in one generation toward his Church, may and fhouldoc a treanes to know what he will do in ail time to come for his pco *• pie as need fliall require Thy Name,0 Lordjndurctb for ever, and thy memorial, 0 Lord, throughout all generations. 2. As the conft ncy of Gods love toward his people, and care for them is a matter ofhi^hpraife unto God : io it is a marter'of fweec refrefhing joy to the beleevc', which maketh him look up kindly unto God, and praifehim: as here the Pfalmift in praifing Gods conftancy, turnethhis fpeech twice toward him : 0 Lord, O Lord.

Ver. 14. For the LORD mil judge hv peopbi

4wd he W/7/ repent h'tmfelfc concerning his fer* vants.

Thefirft newreafon ofGodspraifeisthehope, that the Lord will plead the caufe of his afflicted people, and will comforp them. Whence learn, i.Then are by-paft mercies of God rightly made ufeof, when they ftrengthen faith and hope iri God for mercies to come : as here we fee the Lords memorial made ufc of, for the Churches prefent comfort. 2. Where foe ver Gg3s peopkare opprefied by their enemies, howfoever God hath ever juft quarrel agninft his people, yet will he examine wh3t moved the enemies to trouble them; and albeit he do not at firftgive outfentence, yet he will execute juflice in favour of his people in due time : Per the Lord will judge bis people^ to wit, by pleading their caufe againft their enemies. 3. The conftancy of Gods love to his people, makes the change of his fad difpenfations into more comfortable, to be certain: and therefore Gods afflicting of his people, is a work wherein he will not continue, becaufe his mercy toward his people is everlaftingj For the Lord wiU)iidge his people , and he will repent bim[clfcon-cerningbisfervants. 4.As it is a fort of grief to God toafflid his people, fo it is a fort of comfort to him to comfort his people by delivering cf them from their fad affliction; for the word, Repent bimfel^ in the Originall doth figni fie alio to com -fort kimjclf.

Ver. 15. The idols of the heathen are filver find golly the work of mens hands.

i6.Tbeyh'a\CfnoHtbes, but they /peaknot : eyes hl\Ztbey,but they fee not.

17. They have ears^ but they heare not : neither is there any breath in their mouthes.

18. They that make them arc like unto them : (o i* every one that trujteth in them.

The fecond new reafon of Gods praife, is taken from the bufi-* nefle of all idols compared wirh God 1 and of all idolaters compared with his fcrvants. Whence learn, 1. True wotfhiposrsof

U * God

God '\o deteft images and idols, and all falfe religion, how gor* gcouQy foever ihey be decked up by idolaters : The idols of the heathen arc filvcr and gold> the worf{ of mens hands % 2. How delegable foever the inyendon of inn^cs, or worfhippingof idols fcemtobe, yet do thefe vanities bang nothing to theworfhip-pcrs fave g' ief and vexation: for fo doth their name in the O-riginarl import $ . Wormippers of images arc not efteemed according to their intention and profeflion, when they (ay they worfhip the thing reprefenccd by therrij but are to be judged by Goo's verdict of them, who hath pronounced their gods to be no other thing, then their images which are fhaped by rhe Artifice like a man 5 They have mouthes , mt they [peak not, &c. 4 Idolatry is a benumming fin, which bereaveth the idolater of the right ufe of hh fenfes and reaion ; They tbitrnx^c them arc lilic to them. 5. Bcfide outward worfhip offered by idolaters to th>i; images, they are found to offer unto them alfo the inward worfhip of cheir fouls.- They trufi in tbem; and in trufting in them, or looking for any good b/ them, they are bu r bru-tifh, os like fcnlelefle blocks j So is everyone tbxt trujktbiv them. X

Verf. 19. Blejfe th* LORD, Ohonfe of Ifr.:el: bleffe the LORD^ 0 bo ufe of Aaron.

20 Blejfe the LORD, 0 hoitfe of Levi: je that [earths LORD ttejf* the LORD.

21. BUffcd be the LORD cat of lion: which dtyclleth at iemfdem : Praifcjc the LORD.

In the clofeof ths Pfalme, the Pfalmift exhorceth all ranks of the godly, both publick Officers and private members of the Church toblefle Gad, and giveth example of obedience in his ownperfon. Whence leirn> 1. As the whole incorporation of the Church receiveth common benefits from God more thena-ny incorporation befide, and as every rank and order of people do receive benefits more particularly'to themfelves; fo fhould the whole incorporation together, and every one.of ever/ rank give pr.ife unto God, and fet forth his blcfledncffc before cithers, as their vocation permitteth : for, Blejfe the Lord>0-boufe Jjrael, is fpokento the whole-incorporation ym^Blcjfe the Lord,

PSALME CXXXVI. m

Oboufe of Aaron, doth fpeak to the Priefts; and Blefle xht Lord 0 houfcof Levi, is directed to the under officers of God$ houfe. 2. Aibdt all men arc exhorted, and each perfon in theic icveralpbcis called upon, yet they only wrro teare God, will difcharge the duty con (cionably, therefore after all it is faid, Te that fear the Lord, bkjfethe Lord. 3. The true worfhipper of God draweth this ipeci al point-of Godspraife* from G^ds m?nif.fling of himfelf to his Church in and through, and lof Chtift ; for this isfignifkd by the types, figures and tokens of his pretence in Sion and Jcrufdemh ?tte(fed b? the Lord out of Sion, which dwclletb at ferufalem 4 When thefengofpai e isfung unto God, the work of his praife is not en^ed, but muft.. be continued, renewed and followed ft ill 5 Praife ;c the L$rd.

PSALME CXXXVI.

'J'His Pfaime is an exhortation toconfeffe Gods goodnefle and

and mercy 3 and zo piaife and thank him for the manifeftati-

on thereof, in io many fundry works of his: upon this ground,

becaufe the fountain of his mercy, whence his wcrks did flow,

doth run ftill, anj endure forever, to the benefit of his ownd

people in. fpecial. The reafons of the exhortation untothanks

and praiie, are Tec down in order, fo many in number as the

vertes are, unto every one whereof is added one common rcafon^

from the evcrlaftin* endurance of his mercy In the fi, ft place,

>theexho)Tntion is tnt ice propounded, with re Uons taken f orrf

the Lords attributes or names, v. x, 1, 3. In thefecond place*

reafonsarc given from his works, and in ipecial from the work

of Creation, v. 4, to v. 10. In the third place, reafons are gi-

'venfrom the work of Redemption of Vratl, and binging them

forth out o(Egypt. 8c planting them in Canaanjiom it^tb v.ij.

In the fourth place, reafons of thanks aregiven, from his late?

mercy to the. Church in the Pfalmifts time : t>. 23,14. And la ft of

I all, a reafon is given,* from his goodnefle to all living crca urcs,

v, zf.whereupon heclofeth with an exhottation u'uto thankfgi*

J ving to the God of heaven, v.iC*

U * Ver«

Verf. r. ^A Give thankj nnto the LORD, for \*Jhe is good; for his mercy cndurcth for ever. 2. 0 give thankj unto the God of gods : for his mer* rjf endureth for ever.

3 * 0 give thankj to the Lord of lords : for his mer* cy endureth forever.

Prom the threefold exhortation to give thanks, with the rea-foris fubjoyned thereto : I earn, i. When we have praifed God for what reafons we have offered unto us in one Pfalme, we muft begin again, andpraife (or other reafons, and when we have done fo, we have not overtaken our task,the duty lieth (till at our door to be difcharged afrcfh: as this Pfalme doth fhew. 2.God is to be acknowledged and praifed as the fountain of the being, continuance and prefervation of all things that are in the world, and as the performer of all his promifes : 0 give thanks Mtotbc Lord tfehovt. 2. The knowledge of Gods attributes, p roperties or Name, and in fpecial of his goodneffe, is able to draw forth the praifing of" God from every believer: 0 give thanks unto the Lordj fr be is good. 5 Neither is God weary of doing good, nor is his me.cy fpent, by whit he hath already let forth of it, but it ccntinucth as a river ftill running; For hit mere) tndurctb for ever. 4. Whatfoever is the Lords praife is for ouv profit and advantage, and fo is a matter of thanks from us untoliismiijefty; 0 give thanks unto the Lord, for be is good. {•The Lord is more excellent then all theMagiftrates, Rulers, Princes and Kings in the world : yea, he hath all thofe perfections joyned in one in him, which idolaters do feigne to be fcattered among their idols, of whom they conceive oue to excel in one thing, and another in another thing : O give lbm\s to the God of gods. 6. To whom the Lord is God by Covenant, he is alwayes and forever their God $ For bis mercy enduretb forever. J.God is the only fovereign Lord of all things, and the only Potentate, who hath abfolute right, and abfolute power to do what hepleafeth, and can when he will, overtop all principa iities and powers, to the benefit of his followers: O

give

give tban\s to the Lord of lords. 8. The perpetuity of Gods mercy doth mike the benefit of Gods fovereignty forth-com-ing for ever to the believer, and to ftand as a matter of con-fhnc praife and thankfgiving to him 5 give thank? to the Lord of lords: for bis mercy endweib for ever.

Verf* 4. To him who alone doth great wonders : for his mercy endureth/ir ever.

5. To him that by voifdom made the Heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever,

6. To him that ftretched out the earth above the waters : for bis mercy endurech/itf- ever.

7. To him that made great liohts: for bid mercy endureth for ever.

8. The Sun to rale by day : for his mercy endureth for ever.

9. The Moone and Starres to rule by night : for his mercy endureth forever.

From the rcaTons of praife and "thanks to be given to God, ' which are taken from his works of Creation -> Learn, 1 .Every work of God is wonderful, and able to make a man afionifhed if it be well considered: To him who doth great wonders. 2. Whatloever inftruments the Lord is pleafcd toufe in any oi his wonderful works,, he alone is the worker, and will not communicite the glory of the work with any creature: To him who done dotb great wonders. 5. The conftancyof Gods mercy to his own, doth make the ufe of Gods wonderful power con-ftantly forth-coming to them, as their need requireth : porhk mercy endureth for ever. 4. The making of the Heaven, as it is a wonderful work, and a matter of eonftant praife unto God, fo a wondcrous benefit unto his people in many refpects; To him that made the Heavens. 5. The wifdom of God appearing in the fabrick of heaven, as it is worthy to be praifed, becaufe it is of fo large a compafie, as the motion of it mall be no wayes troublefome to man: the ftars fo glorious an ornament,.fo ufeful to man, and fo regular in their motion as is wonderful': To him that by wifdom made the Hcavcw>\ C\ h is the mercy of U l Goi

IU PSALME CXXXVI.

God that the Heavens do continue in their fervke to finful men** for hn mercy eniuretb for ever. 7. The earths (landing up a-bovethe w ters, which by courfe of nature fhoulii be above the earrh,) is a ftan-.iing miracle for the uvc of man, :ha: he might have a pleaf tnt dwelling wtvle t e is in the world > To bim th&t ftretched forth the emb above the waters. £. It is the mercy of God, that thewateis ao not return to their natural ourfeto cover theeavth as they did in the flood of JS(j4b i ForhU mercy endureth for ever, o. The illumi nation of the world by fo great lights, as might at once (hine upon the one half of the earth> t which otherwife flioulci be in darkneffe for themoft part) is a matter of Gods praife, and mans profit, deierving th nks from man unto God : To him who made great lights* 1 o. It is the Lords mei cy that he haih not changed this courfe, nor removed .his much abuled benefit from us> For his mercic endureth for ever, 11 The making the Sun to bethe fixed fountain of dy light, rather then to have fcrved the world with the light which (hined the firft three dayesoftbe Creation, Is tor the greater benefit of man. as for many other reafons. io for'this, that every part of the day might be better diftinguiiL-eq,according to the motion of the body of the Sun .* Ti?e Sun to rule the day. \ z. That God hath not rilcbarged the Sur to ihine upon finful men, who defcrve to live in darknefle, is a proof of his endlefle mercy to his own t For his mercy endureth for ever. 1 3. The tempering of thedarh.efle of the night by she Moones light, and by the light of the ftarres in their courfe*, is a matter of Gods praife, and of nans comfort, and the Continuing of this favour ftill, is the evidence of hisme.cy tc> his people: Hemx\eththe Moone andSurresto rule by night* for his mercy endureth for ever.

Ver. to. To him thatfmote Egypt in their firft* home 5 fer his mercy endureth fur ever.

11. ssfnd brought out IJrael from among them \for hit werej endureth for ever.

12. With a slrong hand, and with a ftretched out arme : for his mercy endureth for ever.

13. To him which divided the Redfea into parts : for hh mercy endureth for ever.

14. And made Jfrael to paffe thorovf the mid ft of it: for his mercy endurech for ever.

15. But overthrew Tbaraoh and his hofle in the Red fea\ for hi* mercj endureth forever.

16. To him which ledhs people thorow the wilder-mffe \fo- his mere) endureth/#r ever.

17s To him wheh fmote great Kings : for his mercy endureth for ever.

18. AnA flew famous Kings; for his mercy endureth for ever.

19. Sihon King of the Amorces : for his mercy endureth jor ever.

20. KndOg the Kingof Tiajhan : for his mercy endureth for ever.

21. And gave their land for an heritage-^ for his mer~ €y endureth for ever.

22. Even an heritage unto Ifrael his fervant : for his merej endureth for ever.

In there-Cons of Gods praife, taken from the work of delivery of Ifrzcl out of Egypt, convoying of them through the wil-demefle, and planting them in Canixn : Lexrn, 1. The Led fflould bepraifed for the works of Creation, as by all men, fo especially by thofe who arc partakers or" rhe benefit of Redemption : and thofe only who are fenfible of the benefit of Redemption, will give him praife for the works of Creation? and common p ovidence, as the fattening of the duty of praife, etVecl-ally uponJ/r^r/, here doth teach us. 2. The Lords prelcrying ofhisChuch from the beginning doth concern the true members of the Churchin all rimes after, to bethmkful for tt : no lengthen for the continuing of the courfecf rhe Heaven**, Sun, Moon and Srars; as the context of the P iiavtli hhold forth. ?. The Lords punishing of the enemies of his Church v Eg)£lAs an obligation on the ChufcB to praife him for ever: and his cofi-, flan; mercy gberh aiTur' 1 nee, that he will avenge the qimrrel of his oppreffed people in all ages: To him that fontc J£jpi t in ttcir frft-boYiic, foi\hU mercy cniurc:h forever. 4. T;:c delivery of Jfrael from the bondage of Eg)pt, is a matter of Gods pep.

U 4 Ifej

ig6 P SAL ME CXXXVI.

praifc: and it is a pledge of: Gods mercy to his Church in all ages; He bro: gbt out Jfrael from amongft thcrriy for his mercy endurctb for iver. 5. As the work of the Churches delivery is more difficult, fo doth the Lord put forth more clearly his Ora-> nipotcncyforperfe&ingof it, as appeared in Ifraels bringing forth out of Egypt, with aftrong hand and out-fir etched. arme.

6. One pi oof of Gods power manifested for his Church, is a pawne of hispurpofe to eive fo oft proof as need mall be, of his power for his peoples relief; For bis mercy enduretbfor ever<

7. The moft impobable deliverances from danger, are very poflibie to God, who can turn the fea into dry land for his peoples efcapin§; To him which divided the fea into parts. 8. The conftancy of Gods mercy to his Church, makethhis dividing of the fea a pawne of his power and purpofe to deliver his Church how great ibever their ftraitsfhall be: F or hi* mercy endurctb for ever. 9. Ic is a work of no lefle mercy and power, to give his people grace to make ufe of an offered meanes of delivery, then to prepare the deliverance for them, hut the conftancy of Gods mercy doth not only provide the meanes, but alfo giveth his people grace to make ufe thereof in all ages: He made lfrael to paffe through the midft of it, for his mercy endurctb for ever. xo. God can make that mcanes whichproveth effectual for the fafety of his people, to prov * a fnare to the wicked for their de-ftrudtionj as the Red fea was a fnare to the Egyptians; "Bui he, ovirtbrexv Pharaoh andhis hofte in the Rcd-jea. 11. The conftancy of Gods mercy toward his people, is a pledge of the conftant courfe of his jultice againft their enemies ; For his mercy endured) forever. 12. As thankfulneffe maketh fearch of many mercies in the bofome of one, fo the innumerable multitude of Gcds mercies doth force the thankful man to fumme up many mercies in one: as here all the mercies in the fourty yearcs journeying in the wilderneffe are drawn up in a word ; To h m that led bis people thorough the wilderneffe. 13. It is the conftancy of Gods mercy, which maketh him continue the conduct of his people, and bear with their manners, till he put an end to their journey; He led hU people through the •wilderneffe, for his mercy endurctb forever. 14, The people of God may meet with no jeffe difficulties in their way to heaven, then they have found hindrances of their Converfion,' as the typical example of Ifraels meeting with oppofition before they entred Canaan doth fhew. 15, Albeit Kings and potent Powers mould oppofetre fetling of Gods Church in any place where he pleafeth to plan:

it, yet they (ball not be able to hinder his work : for his mercy is forth coming in one age as well as in another^ that pvaife and thanks may alw3yes be given unto him* Who [motegreat things; for bis mercy endurethfor ever. :6. Men of-renown iofe their credit, when they meddle with the Lords Church, ^nd readily they lofc their lives alfo: and this fhould be a document to all mighty men,and a matter of comfort to Gods people; Hejlcxvfa* mem icings, for bis mercy endureth for ever. 17. The Lord will have thefirft oppofers of the fetling of his people exemplarily punifhed, and their punifhment made no lefie famous then their hn hath been ; He flew Sibon Kjngof the Amorites : and the like will the Lord do in all ages againft the chief adverfaries of his people: For hismtrcy endureth fir ever. 18. When judgement upon one en* mie coth not terrifie others of them from op-po/ingGods pecple, the like deftru&icn (hall fall upon thole that make head againft the Church 5 And he flew Og Kivgtf Bajhan. 19. The (laughter of the enemies of Gcds people is the work of the Lord, whofoeverbe the inftruments; for it is net here laid that the Ifraelitcs flew Sibon and Og, but the Lord flew them ; and the like mercy may the Church look for in all ages 5 For bis mercy endureth for ever. 20. Ic is the Lord who giveth heritages at his pleafure, and who can difpoflefle fuch men of their lands, who will not fufter the Lords people to inherit that land which the Lord hath given them : He flew Sibon and Og) and give their land for an heritage, and the like mercy may the Church look for in all ages, as it (hall be found good tor her : For bis mercy endureth for ever. 11. When the Lord puts down the enemies, and puts his fervants in their place s it is a double mercy; As He gave the lands of Sibon and Og to he an heritage unto ifracl bis fervants. 21. There can no caufe be found in Gods people, why God ihculd do good to them., or why he hath done good unto them; but the conftancy of his own mercieonly; For bis mercy endu* nth for ever.

Verf. 23. Who remembredut in our lore cfiate ; for hU mercy endureth for ever.

24. And hath redeemed tu from our enemies ; for his mercy endureth/iw ever.

in

In the reifons ot Godspraife taken from the late experience of the Church in the davesot the Plalmiit: Lcj.rn> i. Unto whatfoever praife we can give to God for win: he hath done before our time, we fhou:d adds praifes alio for v\hat fetk Lord hith done for us in our time, as here the Church in the P aim-ifts dayes doth un'o all the former adde this; Who remembered. tain our lowcjiitc* i. Thefeafon and ordinary time of the Lords manifefting himfelf for his people is, when they are brought low, and emptied of th ir own itrength, and of alt hope of worldly afliftance > Who remembered us in our low e-ftxte. 3. The Lordsprefence, help and aflift.mce, good-will and refped co us, is better obferved by affli&cd people then by pro'perous : for troubles, nccefTries and ftiaits, arcmeanesto open mens eyes, and waken up their fenfes, to take up the worth of the Lords working : He remembred us in our low e/fote.4.The mercy of the Lord is ict on work for his people, both when they are in adverfuy to fuftain them, and to raife them out of it * and in profperity to maintain them in it, and to teach them the good ufe of it, in looking wifely on Gods dealing with them in both conditions: He remembred m in our low cjhte, for bis mercy en~ durelb for ever* f-Albeit the proud enemies of the Church may prevaile, and bring the Church into bondage for a time, yet the Lord will not fufer the encmie to oppreffe, nor his people to be opprefled alwayes, but will deliver his own in due time : as here, He hatb redeemed m from our enemies* 6. The fame reafon and caufeistobe found of the delivery of Ifracl out of Egypt> and of the delivery of the Church at any t'me from their enemies, and that is mercy only> For bis mercy endureibfor ever.

Ver. 2 v Who glvethfood to attflefi; for hii mercy endurcth/arjwr.

In thercafon of Gods praife taken from his goodnefle to all living creature^ Learn, i. The Lords goodnefle and fa«> therlycare of all living creatures, is worthy to be marked and made ufe of for his praife, in fpecialthe giving of every living ereitu-.e their o\v 1 food convenienr for them, and that in due feafbn every day; JVbogiyetb food to dUficfi. a. The mercy of

the

the Lord toward his children, is the caufe of *his care and refpcft unto fuch other creatures, as man hath need of: For bis mercy euduretb for even 3. The care which God hath of all fiefhto ojve them their food, is a ground of afiurance to his people of his far greater care of them ; For bis mercy endurctb for ever, to them,

Ver. 29. 0 give th<wkj unto the Cod of Heaven ; for bis mercy endufeth for ever.

from the clofe of the Pfalme \ Lcxruc, 1. Heaven and hea" verly gifts aie the height of ail the felicity of the Saints, and tbeflcwer of all Gods benefits unto hischildren, for which a* bove all other favours he is u be thanked and prailed by his people: 0 give things untotbtGodof Heaven. 2. God is the ftrong Gud of heaven, not only becaufe he made the heaven* and fheweth his glory meft 'here but efpecLily beer ufe he hah

{iromied to give heav.n, and all fpiritual gra:es unto eternal ife in heaven, to his own people by an evedafting Covenant 5 of which he iven and heavenly mercies he is God : 0 five thttnH* unto the God efhewen 3. As mercy hath intituled heaven unto the Saints, to doth mercv preferve them in their right, nnd will prefeive them in the pofleflton thereof for ever: For bis mercy enduretb for ever.

PSALME CXXXVII.

THis Pfalme may be divided into three pans. In the firft, is fet down the lamentable condition wherein the Lords people were in tfieir captivity in ^Babylon, ver 1 2,5. In the next, is their conftancy in Religion, ver.$,^6< Inthethirdj is their denouncing of judgement by way of imprecation a-'gainft the inftruments and chief authors of their calamity^ ver. 7A9.

Ver,

300 P SAL ME CXXXVII.

ycr. r. TyTtbe rivers of Babylon there toe fate JLidown^jea^ we Vrept : when we remem-bfedZion.

In the firft part, wherein the forrowfui condition of the captive Church of God is fetdown j Lc&rn, I. The people of God by their fins may procure the taking away of the face of a vifible Church from them, and the taking away of their civil liberties alto, and may procure baniffiment from their own coun-trey among idolaters, as the captivity of the Jewes \r\Bibylon doth (hew* 2. When men do not make ufe of the priviledges of Gods publick worihip, it is righteoufnefle with God to remove thefe abufed favours, and to caft the abufers thereof out among idolaters, as here the Jewes were, who becaufc they made not ufe oltferuj'demy the vifion of peace, they are thruft out into 2fa6p lon> aplaceofallconfufion. $. When the Lords people provoke God againft them, the wickedeft wretches and vilcft idolaters in the world may overcome them in a battel, and rule over them as over ilaves: as the experience of the Jewes doth prove* . 4. When defolation is brought upon Qx>ds people, no wonder to fee them remain in that condition for a time, and not to be delivered immediately out of it: By the rivers of Babylon there wo fate down, ?. The publick miferies of the Church, are caufes of heavineffe unto the true members thereof, and motives of mourning : There we fate, yea, we wept. 6. Comparifonof a profperous condition by-paft, with adveriuypicfent, doth aug-augment mifery and increafeth grief, efpecially when by-pait mercies abufed arc compared with juft judgments inflicted in the pake thereof: We wept, nben weremembred Sion. 7. They who will not efteem of the priviledges of Sion when they have them, will be forced to acknowledge the worth thereof with for-row when they want them; ff'c weft, when we rcmembrei Sion*

Vcii 2. We hanged our harps upon the wilkwes >in fh mid ft t hereof.

The

PSALME CXXXVII. 301

The Lords people earned with them into their captivity their harps j firft, as meancsofftimng up their affections., in their private worfhip of God. Secondly, in hope to have fome ufc of them afterward in the Lords woiftiip, in their own land. And thirdly, that thereby they might make profeflion before their opprefibrs of their Religion, and of their h6pe of reititu-tionin Gods appointed time, albeit rhcy could not frame their heart for the prefent to rejoyce as they were wont to do. Whence leurn, 1. Means to help in private devotion muft be the more made ufe of, that publick meanes are wanting : for the Jewes debarred from the Temple do carry their harps with them into their fcattering and captivity* !• In the midft of our calamity we ought both to have hope of deliverance out of our trouble* and to pi oft lie it before thofe that have us under their power} f for fo did the captive JeHves in their captivity, they carried their ' harps into Babylon. J. 7 here are times when the fignes of our joy may be fupprefled, and the fignes of our forrow exprefled: We bunged our burps on the willowes. 4. The moil lawfull and commendable forrow, is that which is taken for the dishonour of God, and the defolation of the Church : When we remembered Sion, we hanged our burps. 5. No natural comfort, nor invitation unto carnall joy, can counterbalance the caufes of fpi-ritual grief, neither rivers, nor fhadow of willowes, nor any thing eife can ftaythe godly grief of Gods enptived people ? We banged our burps upon the willowes, in the midft thereof.

Ver. 3. For there thej that carried U4 aftay caf+ tive, required oft*s a [org, and they that wafted***, required of us mirths faying. Sing w one of the fongs of Sion.

Thtir affliction was augmented by the infulring of the Babylonians over them, calling for a fong from the Jewes, to feed their godlcife mirth. Wlicnce learn, 1, Oft-times forrowes do not go ling 1 e, and alone, but one grief is jcyned to another, one stop calleth to another; as here, infultation of the Babylonians is joyred with the bondage and captivity of Cods people. 2. As t hi forrow of the godly is the matter of the laughter and joyofthcii* enemies and no fport to the wicked is ib rcliihing,

as

302 PSALME CXXXVII.

as a jeft broken upon the true Religion: fo no afflictidn umo the godly is fo heavy, as to finde their own firtircs to draw not onlymiferyon themielves, but alfodifhonour upon their Religion .• as here We fee, the Jewes hanged up their harps^ and why ? For they that tarried us away captive, required of us afong: and they that wafted us, required of us mirth, joying Sing us eve ojtbe fongsofSim, 3 Corrupt nature makerh no other ufe of fpiri-tuall things then thereby to iansfie heir fenfual defwes; as here ir is mirth, and Tinging only, for which the Babylonians do feek to hear a Pfalme iung: Sing us one of the fongs ofsion.

Verf. 4. How flail we fing the LORDS for gin a Jfrange land}

5. // / forget thee, 0 Jerufalem: let my right hand for get her cunning.

6, >f J do not remember thee, let my tongue cleav* to the roofe of my mouthy if I preferre not fe~ rufalem above my chiefe joy*

In the fecond place, wherein the Jewes conftant profeffionof their Religion is let down, and their refuting to fatisfie thek enemies defire, inprcftitut ng the Lords worlhipto their canal pleafure 5 Learn, i. Albeit we be under the feet of cur enemies and rdbeit we have drawn on our mifery by our finning, yet muft we neither deny ou- Religion > nor any part thereof for tear of man* nor fubjed our Religion to mens pleafure, as men think good to direct us in it, whatfoever may be the clanger 5 for fo doth the example of the captive people ot'God teach us,refufing to fing Pialmesat the defire of the Babylonians: How fhall we fing the Lords fong in aftrmge land ? z. The place where God is not worshipped, Should be:i ftrang land unto us his people,and no place fcindely or comfortable unto us, but where the Lords people may enjoy the liberty of Gods publick won"hip,and of the communion of Saints: How $dl we fing the Lords Song ing ftrangc Urid? $. Whatfoever be our own private condition, worie or better, it muft not take, up the room in our affection* which is due to the Church 5 it muft not make us forget the af-fLi&ionot jofcpb, for that were to provoke God to make thofe

bene Bis

I

PSALME CXXXVII. 303

benefits ufelefle anto us, which did divert us from fympathy with the Church : If 1 forget tbee, OJerufdcm, let my right bund forget bcr sunning, or if the Church cf God , and the good ©fit be net preferred above our own private contentments, ic (hall be righteoufneiTe with God to turn the meanes of our private conten-ment, to be the means of our private grief: If I do not remember tbce> let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouthy if Ipreferrenotjerufalemtomj cliief joy. 4. To feels: mens favour with the dct iment of any point of Religion, or c<j confent unto mens encroachment upon matters of Religion, that we may have their favour, or that we may be freed from their trouble, cr fa at more eafe under them, is to forget God and his Church, and cur refpefts which we owe to God, and to his Church; as we are taught by the example of the Jcwes, refuting to fing Pfalmes at the Babylonians desire or direction, and expounding their obedience to the Babylonians in this point, to be nothing elfebut a forgetting of jcruplkm, and a denying cf their Religion, if they mould have yielded.

Verf. 7. Remember 1 0 LO RD y the children of Edom y in the day offerufalem : who paid, Rafe it^ rdfi it^ evtn to the foundation thereof.

8. 0 daughter of'Baby Ion who art to bedeflroyed : happy fazWht be that rervardeth tb:e> as thou baft ferved us.

9. Happy (hall he be that taheth and dajbeth thy little ones agtenfk theftoncs.

Inthcimrrecationufedagainft the enemies of the- Church, and in particular againft their falfe brethren the Edomites, who helped on their affliction, and againft the Babylonians wfco were the chief oppyefforsof them; Leirn, 1. Falfe brethren arc the chief inftrumentse:'perfection of the tiuc members of the Church,whenfoever-tbey finde occafion, at the Edomites, the pofterity 01 Ejxu did prove in the deftruftion of Jerufxlemz Remember, 0 Lord, the children of Edom. 2. Whofoever do deljjhcyiii the Churches calamity \ and do endeavour the Charches ruine by word or deed ; by their Sirring up of others

to

/

304 PSALM E C XXXVII.

to afflict them ^ or by any oppreflion which may tend to the Churches prejudice,when the Lord is vifiting her, their finne fhall not be forgotten of God in the day, when the Lord judgeth his people, but fhall be fevercly punifhed; 7(cmember y O Lord, the children of Edom, in the day ofjerufalem. 3. No leffe will fuffice the adverfaries of the Church then the utter ruine, and rafing of it to the ground ; Who (aid oftferufalcm, Rife it y rafe it, even to the foundation thereof. 4- The eftate of the Church at the worft is better then the eftate o(Babylon, ox any eftate of her adverfaries, how profperous foever, at the beft; for albeit the Church be in captivity and opprefled, yet (he fhall not be deftroycd,butitisnot fowith her adverfaries: but, O daughter cf Babylon, who art to bedeftroyci, . 5. Faith is neither blinded by the profperity of the wicked, nor by the adverfity of the Churchy but doth fee through the profpeft of the Lords Word, both her approaching delivery of the Churchy and the ruine of her enemies: for, 0 daughter ofB#bylon,wbo art to be deftrojed, doth fhew unto the captive Jewes fo much. 6. As the cne* mies of Gods Church have meafured out unto the Lords people, fo it fhall be meafured back again and more, for a reward unto her adverfaries: Happy fhall he be that rervardetb tfyee, as thou baft [erved tcs. 7« There is an happineffe, wherein bleffedneffe doth not confift, which neither is apart, or branch of bleffedneffe, nor 3 proper mark of bleffedneffe, but only fignifieth iome happineffe in the confluence of a mans work, tending to the glory of God and good of his Churchy and iuch is the happineffe of the Medes, and Perfians here fpoken of, wh6, wharfo-ever were their corrupt intentions in their warre, did work, albeit not as religious fervants, y*:t as Gods inftruments, a good workof juftice upon the oppreflors ot Gods people, and a good work of delivery of the Lords people : Happy fiall he be that ta-\etb and dafhetb thy little ones again ft the (tones. 8. Albeit it beafinfullthingtof:tisfleour carnall affection in the mifery of any man 3 yet it islawfullin Godscaufe to wifh that God be glorified, albeit in the confuiion of his enemies: and here great need is to have the heart well guarded with the fear of God, for wherwife to allow the daflnng of little ones againft the (tones> might make a man guilty of lavage cruelty.

PSALME

1

PSALME CXXXVIII.

HTHisPfalme is Davids thankfgiving unto God, and prahang of him for the expe> ience he had of his love and faithfulnefle 0 Thepromifeof praife or thankfgiving, is let down^v. 1. and fix reafons are to bz fubjoyned in the verfes following, which ail doled with a prayer in the end of the Pfalrae;

Verf, I. Y Will praife thee With my whole J. heart: before the gods mil I fing praifes unto thee.

In the promife of praifing God $ Learn, i f It is a part of our thank fulneflTe, to engage our heart to praife God for afcer*rime$ when we£nde that all the thinks we can give for the prefent, are fliort of our duty or defire to praife him j I will praife tbee, faith David. 2. As fometimes the believer will tinde his heart fet ac liberty in Gods worfhip, which at another time he will finde to be in bands 3 fo rtiould he take the opportunity of an enlarged heart, to runne in the way of Gods fervice, as David doth here 1 1 mil praife tfiee with my wbJe heart. 3. Albeit the faces of Princes, Rulers, and M: gift rates, ule to lay fome reftraint upon the liberty of i'peech^ which men life to take before mean perfons, and albeit Princes ordinarily love rather to hear therafelvea praifed by flatterers, then to hear either God or man magnified in their audience,yet a heart enlarged with the fenfe of Gods Majefty, greatnefle, and goodnelie, will not Hand to confeffe, and proclaim Gods truth, grcatneffe and goodneffe, and other points of his praife, in the audience of the greatefl men on the earthy put cafe they fhould think themfelves cried down, and mote lightly efteemed of, by this meanes .* %efm the Lerdwiti J fing praife to thee.

Ver. l. 1 wiH worfhip toward thy holy Temple\ and praife thy Name , for thy loving kl»dneffe 7 and for

x iki

thy truth: for thon Icaft magnified thy Word above all thy Name.

He engageth himfclfc alio unto the pwblick ordinary worfhip of God, according to Gods command, and then giveth the rea-fons of his engagement. Whence learn, i. VVorlhippin^cf God iniecret is indeed neceffary, but it is not fufficient for the man who mindeth thankfulnefTe to God, except he follow the pub» •lick me.mesalfo, and that after the way which is prescribed by <7od, directing all his fervice to be offered to God through Chnft : for this is imported in Davids worshipping toward the Arke, which was placed in the tabernacle or Temple/ I will vporjhip toward the holy Temple, and pratfe thy Name. 2- The experience of the Lords kindnefTe and faithfulneffe in his pro-mifesmadcto his people, is a lively motive unto be'.ievers to praife him : / willpraife thy Hameforthy loving hjndneffe, and thy truth. 5.There is moretobefeen and felt in the experience of Gods children, then they could promife to themselves out of Gods Word : for they finde that God in effect is better in his payment then in his promifes, for thus much dcth this commendation import > Thou haft magnified thy IVord above all thy Name, that is, I have found more effect in the performance ot thy promife, then the promife feemed unto me to hold forth in thy Name, and this is the fir ft reafon of Davids engagement unto thankfulnefle.

Verf. 5, In the day when I cried, thcu anfwer-ed[i me : and ftrengthenedfi me with fkrength in my fouL

The fecond reafon of his thankf^iving is more fpeciall, bc-caufe God had uphoiden him by his inward comfort in the time of his trouble, and had anfwered his prayer gracioufly. WIkmc learn, x. The Lord ufeth to put his children unto ftraits before he deliver them, that he may be feen the more clearly to be their deliverer: for David cried unto the Lord, before the an-fwer of his ordinary and daily prayer was given unto him ; In the fay when I cried, faith he. z. Tobefupported in trouble, and to have ftrength to be#r our in trouble till the full delivery come,

is

PSALME CXXXVIII. 307

is a reall and remarkable anfwer from God to his peoples prayers: ; Inthe day when I cried, thou anfweredjt me, and ftrengtbctKdft me with ftrength in my foul. $• Albeir before the outward and compleat delivery cxme,thepaflages of Gnus fecuet fuftaining of a man be not well marked, ye- when they are looked back upon in the clear light of accomplilhed deliverance, the leaft degrees of deli very and fecret fuppoaing of the man under trouble* will appear clearly tobeanfwerers oi prayer, and begun delivery.: zsVavidhtKt obferveth. and giveth account he. of , In the day when I cried, thou anjweredfi me 3 andftrengthenedfl me with Jirengtbinmy jouL

Ver. 4. All the k?*gs of the earth fhall praife, thee, O LORD: when they hear the Words of thy month,

5. Tea, they (hallfing in the Vvayes of the LORD: for great is the glory of the LO RD*

The third reafon of histhankfgiving is^becaufe he forefeeth in the Spirit of prophecy, how grear glory and praife, and thanks the Lord (hall have, when he mail conve tthe Gentiles, and reveal his Word and works unto them. Whence learn, 1. The forefight of the glory which God mall have in the world before its end, by the promifea propagation of his Gofpell, mould ftirre up all who believe rhe approaching glory of God, to magnifie and praile him in their own time: for the forefight of the glory of God to be manifefted among the Gentiles is here the matter of the fong of David, and of the Church of the Jewes All the hjngs oj'the earth fnall praife tbee> 0 Lord. 2. When the glory ©f the Lord is feen, it doth overfliine all the glory in the world : for Kings when they fee Gods glory, fhall fall down and praile God: A Hthe flings ofthe earth pall praife thee, O Lord. 3. It is the Word of God mainly which fbeweth forth the glory of the Lord, and maketh his works to be wonderfull. tAll the fynzs of the earth fhall praife thee, when they hear the words of thy ntoutb. 4* Albeit the knowledge of God which cometh orieJy by his works, be able :o convince even the Hearhen, of ihe Lords care over his people, and ro aftonifh them, yet not the knowledge of the Lord which cometh by his works, buc that which com-

X * etH.

368 PSALME CXXXVIII.

eth by the heaving of the Word of the Lord, is able to convert a man, and to make him walk in the obedience of faith, and tp re-joyce in God, and to ling his praifes cheerfully: When they bear the words of thy mouth, they Jballfag in the wayes of the Lord, 5 , The glory of the Lord which is manifefted in his Wo d, i$ the higheft glory which is manifefted to the world i for after all the glory cf his works of Creation and Providence, which the Word holJeth forth, it iheweth forth the glory of Gods grace and mercy to the felf-condemned finner, which mercie to the penitent foul in feme re pect, is above all Gods wotks, for in this refpeft it is here faid : great is the glory of the Lord.

Verf. 6. Though the LORD be high, yet hath he rcfyett unti the totyly : but the proud he knowetba-ftrojf.

A fourth reafon of Davids thankfgiving and praifing of God, is for his different dealing with the humble and proud. Whence learn y i. Albeit the Lord be fo highly exalted abore all the crea* tufts* as it is a fort of humbling himfelf to behold his creatures* (V.nin the heavens* yet he is lb good and gracious, that his fuperlative grandour, .doth not hinder his taking notice of the meaneftluft finner, who humbleth himfelf before him : Though the. Lord be high, yet bath he refpett unto the lowly, 2. The great nefs of the Majeftie of God commendeth his humility, and the Lords locking low for the good of the poore Supplicant, commendeth his greatnefle, and maketh it more lovely: for it is here put for a point of his praife : Thxt though the Lord be high> yet hath he refpeU unto the lowly. 5. The Lord obfervcth the difpofition of men,- who are proud and who are humble before him * for this doth the text point at. 4. The humble do lofe nothing by their humility, nor do the proud gain any thing by their pride., but by the contrary the humble finde grace, and the picud are refilled of God ; He "bath rejpecl to the lowly , but the proud he ftfiowctb afar off. 5. Pride excludeth a man from accefle to God, and a proud man cannot have communion with God : He }yis#e\b the proud afar off.

Ver. 7* Though 1 walk in the midji of trouble,

tbon

PSALME CXXXVIIf. 30*

thou Wit revive me % thou [halt firetch forth thine baud dgainft the Wrath of mine enemies^ and thy rtght handfhallfave me.

■ The fixth reafon of his giving thanks & praife unto God,is his confidence,;that whatfoever trouble he (hall fal into hereafter by his enemies,the Lord will fuftain him under it. and deliver him out of it Whence learn.iAi is a good ufc of by-paft ex?erRnce,to conceive hope to be helped of God in time to come : as the example of David, here teacheth us. 2. Whatibever trouble a man hath been in : he may fall in as great or greater afterward; yea, he may poffibly be in a comfortleffe condition, and helpieiTe and hopelefle for any thing cm be teen, yea, and be compaffed a-bout with trouble on all hands, yea he may faint under the burden, and be as a dead man: for thus much Piviiprefuppofeth may be his condition afterward : Though I walfiinlhe mid ft of trouble. $. How great foever, and how many foever ft raits and difficulties the believer can forecaft and forefee, he may pro-mife tohimfelf as greatand ax many fupplies of ftrength, and deliveries from GodiTbougb 1 walk H the midft of troubles, thou wilt revive me, that is,thou wilt put new life and comfort in me. 4» Againft the power and wrath of adversaries, Gods power and good-will is a fum\ient guard, fuccour and relief: Thou ft) a it ftretcb forth thine hand againft the wrath of mne enemies, ani thy right Iwidftyall favc me. .

Verf. 8. The LOTSD m/IperfcR that which r*»-cernethme : thy mercy, 0 LD&D, endmethfor evert forfake not the worlds of thine own hands.

The fixth reafon of his giving thanks and praife, is his confidence of the Lords conftant continuing with him, and .nuking him to pcrfevere in Gods obedience unto the end, which he-clo-fcthwitha prayer that he may pcrfevere, Whence learn, x.Thc believers heart cannot be (juiec, till it be fore of perfeverance,and cf this he may be made afluredrfor the fame Spirit of grace which hath made him fee the Lords engagemen: for him in time paft, can give certainty of the continuing of Gods grace in time to come ; The Lord will f erf eel that which concerned? me: He find>

X j cth

§m PSALME CXXXIX.

Cth a work of Gods love to him already beg;un,and then gathers hence that the Lord wil perfect that work of grace which he hath begun, t. The believer doth not build his hope of perfevetance upon any ftrengthorconftancy in himfelf, but upon the un-changeablenefle of Gods everhfting mercy, as here David ihew-cth unto us: The Lord willperfcH that which concerneth me,why? and upon what ground is he fo confident ? Thy mercy, 0 Lord, enduretb for ever. $. True ailurance of perieverance muftbe jcyned withthefenfeof a mans own weaknelTe and unworthi-nefle, and ill dcferving,(if God fhould deal wi:b him in juftice) yea, it muftbe joynedwithdependanceupon Cjo& in faith and prayer, and ufe of the meanes 5 for fuch was cheaflurance which 2)^;ihau who afturtha'-he hath laid. The Lord will perfect that whichconcerneth mc, fubjoyneth, forfafa not the rvorfi of thine 0 n bands, which importeth fo much. 4, Faith hath aU waves for us own {Lengthening to make ufe of all bonds betwixt God and it (elf as a creature, and in fpecial as a new creature, that feeing his calling and gifts are without repentance, he would make out the work of grace and falvation, where he hath begun ir, as David teacheth us; Forjaltf not the work °f thy own bands.

PSALME CXXXIX.

DAvid being wickedly flandered and persecuted by his ad-verfaries, findeth his zeal kindled againft them; and kft his owi hearts corruption mould deceive him, as being carnal in this matter, heprefentcth his heart unto God, the all-feeing and every-where-prcfent Judge of the fecrets of all hearts, and he prefenteth aifo his adverfavies both perfons and caufe, with his own carriage toward them, to be tried by God, praying that himfelf may be directed toward lite everlafting.

Inthefirft place, the Omnifciencc of Gjd is declared, v. r, i» IA- 5>6> Ir.theiHXt, the Omniprefence of (/od, with his Dmniicierxe is fet forth, v. 7, 8 3 q 0 \o } i 1, n. In the third place, the eafen is given of Gods To exact knowledge of all the fecrets of his heart, becaufe the Lord did forme and fafliion him,

in Co wonderfully wife and powerful a way, as he could neither exp-crfc no comprehend, ^.13, 14. l 1> ] 6, J7,i#. Li the fourth place, he confefleth to God his judgement of wicked men, and his hatred of their wayes, making God, who is the iearcher of hearts, WnneiTe and Judge of his fine or and Director of his courfe toward everlafting life, v. 10,

20, II,H, 2$, 24.

Verf. 1. /~\WRD^ thou haft fearched me, and V^^y woven me.

Ver. 2. Thou knorvej} mj downerfitting , and mine uprijing: thou underjiandeft my thought a-far off.

1> Thou compare ft my path y and my lying doVQn y and art acquainted with all my ways.

4. For there is not a word in my tongue : but /<?, 0 LORD y thou know, ft it altogether.

5. Thou hafi befet me beiiade arid before : and laid thine hand upon me.

6. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me : it is high y I cannot attain unto it.

In his acknowledging oTGocs OmniicIence,and pcrfe^ know* ledge of every thing in him, and in his betaking himfelr un o God, for clearing ot him, comforting cf him, and bearing him through all calumnies and reproaches; Lcxni } i The go lly may ftnetimes be fo overclouded with calumnies and ycpoaches ; as they cannot Gride a way to clear themfelves before mer^but muft content and Comfort themfelvs with the reftimony of a good con*

:c, and with Gods approbation of their integrity,ai'li 7)Avid doth, faying,0 Lord.tbou baft fcarcbedme and hjiown rnc z. As 'he knowledge whi h the Lord hath of us is molt acciua .;, having, as it were, a perfect fearching joyncd with it: fo the belief of this point isneceiTarily to be applied toour felvcs, rrnt ir may rule our convcrfation, breed us comfort - and con-

fidence in our approaches ento God, whofoevcr be agajnft us, zs'Davids example here doth teach us. 3. The Lcro is ac-ouairacd with all the motions of thee x:ernai nun, themeaneft X 4 gefcw

$12 P SAL ME CXXXIX.

oefture of the body falleth under his cognition and obfervatioru Jhou fywweft my down-fitting and my uprifmg. 4. Wha, ad-viumentsweareupon, what consultations and dclibe; ations wc ^j are about, th- Lord knoweth all perfectly before wc conclude ' .any thing : Thou underjiandeft my thought afarre off 5 The Lord doth not only obicrve our aime and icope, but alio how we pu: pofc to convey out matters, and how we 2p on and proceed in ^accomplifhing of our purpofes.. wrnt rule we follow or reject, . from the morning to the evening : Tb'ou compajfejl my path, and -my lying down.6. The Lord knoweth us fo well as the bift know-r led^e which our entire friend can have oi us, with whom we do communicate our minde, and who knowcthali ou-dehgne and vvay to °o about it, is but a ih cowing dmilitude of Gods knowledge of us: Thou art acquainted with all my wiyes. 7. There ~ is not a word which we ipeak, either idle or to purpote, bur the - Lord co.-Gdereth it perfectly: For there is not a word in or : tongue, but to> 0 Lord, thou tywweft it altogether. 8 VVe are fo iiiciofed w'thin ihe view of Gods beholding ot us, and 10 com-1 pafiedby his providence, and fo powerfully ruled by his power, as we cannot turne this way or that way, but we are ilill in his fight, and under his difpofing of us, ash'; feeth fit; Thou baft be jet me behinde and before , and laid thy hand upon me. 9, The knowledge which God hath of us and of our wayes, is fo particular and perfect, fo far above our opacity, as we cannot comprehend the manner of it: Such knowledge is too wonderful for me. ' 1 0.-When we are about to look upon Gods perfections^ »A we mould obf-rve our own imperfections^ and thereby learn to i be the more modeft incur fearching of Godsunfearchableper-' fection: Such knowledge, faith David, is too high for mc, 1 can* not an in unto it. 1». Then do we fee mod or God, when we * fee hi m jncomprehenfible, and do fee our felves fwallowed up in the thoughts of his perfection, and are forced to fall in admiration of God, as here, Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, itU high>I cannot attain unto it.

Vcrf j. Whither pjall I go front thy Spirit: or p>hitherfhali I fit e from thy pre fence ?

8. If I &fcend up into heaven^ thou art there : /// ntakf myfot in hell, behold^ thou art there,

9. If/ take the wings of the mornings and dwell in theuttermoft parts ofthcfea,

10. Even there flail thine hand lead me\ and thy right hand flail hold me,

11. If J fay % Surely the darkneffe flail cover me: even the night flail be light about me.

1 1. TV*, the darkneffe hideth not from thee, but th$ night Jhineth as the day : the darkneffe and the light are both alike to thee.

In Davids fetting forth the Lords Omni prefers cc and Om-nifcience to be fuch, as he cannot efcape his fight and power; Learn, i# The right making ufe of Gods all-feeing providence, and every where prefence is, to confider our duty to walk before God, as in his fight alwayes, and net to leek to hide our ielves, or our counfel from him, as David doth here: Whither jhalllgofromthy Spirit, or whither Jball I flee from thy pre* fence ? 2. Whofoever walk in the darkneffe of their own devices, snd mifrcga-d God in their wayes, as if they mi?ht efcape his fight, orefebewhishand, are much miftakf.n : for there is no place of refuge from hts purfuing* Whither full I go from thf Spirit, or w/; thcr Jball Iflee from thy prefence^ 3. Neither mens p;efumptionand blefling of themfdves in courfes not allowed by God, nor their eftimatinn of high preferment in Church or State, f which are a fort of a m:;ns lifting up him-felf to heaven,) can availe a man, when hecometh1 to be tried before God ; If 1 afcend to heaven, thon art there . where fugitives from God cannot hive place. 4. A mans bale condition and meannefle in the world, or his defpe ate refolution to perifll, provided he can have his will for a time, yea, his delperatedif-patching himfdf, when he is incurably mifer bk\ will not avail a man, nor carry him through : for God fattening the man in the mifery which he hath refolved to endure, will make him findc that he hath too fore a party : If I muf^e my be in h U, behold, thou art there. ?. Changing from place to pi ace,and h\;ing from one countrey to another, forgoing tofueh lolitavy places where no man reibrteth, cannot deliver a man froqa Gods pn (uing and overtaking of him. If I ta^e the -wings of xh> morning, and dvoU in the uttermoft partjofib<r(ca, cpenttert faUvk) kani lead me, and thy right band Jball hold me. 6. Whuicrioever 4

man

314 PSALME CXXXIX.

manfhall go, he mud be furniihed with power and ftren°th; from God to go thither: for, there fhall thy handlead me, im-porteth fo much. 7. Gods power and juftice fhall ever be a mans mafter> £0 whkherfoever he fhall go $ Thy right band/bolt hold me. 8. The fugitive (inner hath many devices in his head, to elude Gods fight and juftice, and all to deceive himfelf, and will run from one fhift to another, before he turne himfelf to Gods and his thoughts of Gods prefence are fo groffe, as amongft other thoughts, to think himfelf hid in -he night from God, but in all, poor fool, he is deceived; for if ljay, Sjurcly the d&rlyieffe fhM cover me> even the night fhall be light about me i yea, thedarl{neffebidetb not from thee, bus the wight fhineth as the day, the darl^neffe and the night are both ali^c tothec.

Vcrf. 13. For thou hafi poffeffedmyreines: thou %afi covered me in my mothers VQombe.

14* Iwi&praife thee, for lam fearfully and \toa-dfirfully made: marvellous are thy "toorkj* and that myfoule knows right we Zf.

I j. tJMy fubfiance was not hid from thee, ^ohen I prasMAdein(ecret % and curioufly wrought in the Ion-efi parts of the earth.

16. Thine eyes did fee my fub(lance jet being un-perfeB, and in thy boo\ all my members were written^ which in continumcewere fafhhned: when as yet there W&snoneofthem.

1 j. H0V9 precious alfo are thy thoughts unto me % O God : hoto great is the fumme of them i

18. If / fijould count them % they are more in number then the fand ; When I awake , / am fltll with thee.

In the third place, where the Pfalmift givech a reafon of Gods exad knowledge of, and power over him, becaufe he hath formed him in the belly wonderfully; Learn , 1. In regard that God feath made us in the wombe, and we live, and move, and fubfift

by his power* itis not pcffible that God fhould not know our words, Wt rks. and thoughts and all, and have usalwayes in hrs fight and under his power: For thou haft poffeffed my reines, thou haft covered me in my mothers wombe* i< The knowledge of God, and his Government of the creature, is nor like a mans, who fetteth himfelf for a while on this object, and then turneth off to another object, but Gods Knowledge and Government is a fetled poflefling of his own woi kmanfhip, by a conftant beholding, by a fetled ruling of his work, by a conftant maintaining and judging of the mod fecret motion of a mans fpirit: For thou haft poffeffed my nines > thou haft covered me in my mothers wombe* 5. The Lord in framing our bodie in our mothers wombe, did cover his tendc work with his mighty power from all inconveniences, as with a fhield ; thou haft covered me in my mothers wombe, 4. The right fight of Gods workmanship in our very bodies, will force us to praife Gods unipeakable wifdom: 1 wiV praife thee, for I am fearfully made. 5. When God is ktn in his glory in any thing, hismajefty becometh terrible to the beholder^ his glory is fo bright; I am ft arfully made, 6. As the L^rds rare works, without confederation, look upon a man very common like, fo his common works being well confidered, be-cone very wonderful: J am wonderfully made. 7. The right fight of any one of Gods works, giveth light in all his works, to {hew them all wondercus: Marvellous are thy wov^s. 8. The confederation ot Cfods work in our bodies well digefted, is profitable for our foul: And that my foul \noweth right well. 9. As the Lord doth acquaint us with his works, we fhould obferve them well, and bear witnefle to what we obferve for his glory, as£,rjiidoth, faying, And that my foule \noweth right wclL 10. In the framing of our bodies God knoweth what he is making, neither darknefle nor diftance of heaven from earth, nor a* ny other impediment, do r h hinder him in his working:^/ fub* fiance was not bid from tbce> when I was made in fecret* 11. The makingof amansbodyoi fo many bones, arteries, vcines, fi-newes, &c. is a mod curious piece of work ; I was enrioufy wrought in the low eft parts of the earth. 12. God feeth tilings before they be made, and his purpofeto make hath no ieffe clear-neiTe of knowledge of the thing to be made, then the fubfiftence of it when it is made can give j and God in his decree to do, knoweth the thins to be done, as fully as when it i s done : Thine eyes did fee myfubftanct, yet being imperfefl, and in thy book all my members were written> which iu continuance were fijhhncd,

whey

3i* PSALME CXXXIX.

when as yet there was none o f them . i $. The Lords decrees of things to be done, are fo clear, fo determinate, fo certain, as if thedefcriptionandhiftory of the thing already come to pafle were written in a book: for fo much doth the comparifon taken from a written book to mew the nature oi Gods, decrees, Import 5 Inthy book all my members were mitten, which in conti-nut'tce mre fujbionci, when as yet there wis none of them* 14. There is rare wifdome to be learned out of C^ods decrees and works i How precious are thy thoughts unto me} 1 ?. What pains a man taketh in the Cearching thereof, is well recompenfed with pleafure and profit, as Davids experience doth teach. i6.We Should ftudie this wifdom till we (inde it fweet, and then lay it up as a precious jewel in our minde/vhen we have found it; How preciomalfoarcthy thoughts unto me, 0 Cjoi? 17. All Gods revealed decrees, are the matter of the beleevers comfort and his Joy, how harm foever they feem to the unbeliever and unrenewed mans Howpreck'udfo are thy thoughts unto me } OGoi? 18. The Particulars of Gods purpofe and decreed wiH toward his own children, which from time to time do come to light, as they are revealed by the daily execu:ion of them,are innumerable; How great is thefumme of them ? ifllhouli count them y they are more in number then the [and. 19. Albeit the moft vigilant of the Saints fometimes fall in drowiincfle and fleepineffe of Spirit, that they cannot perceive Gods prefence with them, and care of them, and love unto them, yet when the Lord wakeneth up their foules, andreneweth their fpirituil lenies l; they are forced to fee and acknowledge that the Lord doth never leave them, even when they lead perceive his prefence: For, when lavage, I am /till with thee, doth import all this.

Ver, 19. Surely thou ^lit flay the wicked, OGod: depart from m$ therefore ye bloody men.

20. For they jpeak againfi thee wickedly : and thine enemies take thy Name in vain.

In the fall place, he confeff-th his judgement of, and affe&i-©n toward his adverfaries, and ofFereth all to be fearched and approved of God, and himfclf to be directed thereafter unto life everlafting : and firft, he (heweth his judgement of his adver-fariesj and the reafon of his abhorring the fcllowfhip of their

icourfes.

PSALME CXXXIX. 317

courfes. Whence learn, J. Where we perceive wickeddefle to reign, there we may ben(Tured deftruftion will follow: Surely y ihouwiltflay thewi\ed>OGod. 2. When we do pafle our judgement of mens perfons and courfes, we had need to conform our judgment unto what we know the Lord will allow as here the Pfalmiftdothjdire&inghisfpecchto God, $ When the Lord will comfort his fervants under perfecution, he will let them fee not only their own bleflednes in himfelf,but alfo the deftru&ion ot their enemies approaching, as here we fce./f.When we fee deflection attending upon the way wherein others are walking, we ought to keep off from fellowfhip with their unfruitful works of darknefle: for otherwife whatfoever duties any fpeciai relations do call for at our hands, David was very obi-fervant of them toward his greateft enemies, but he feparated from them only as wicked and as bloody, and as they were on a courfeof perdition $ Depart from me therefore ye bloody men. 5. When we have a controverfie with the wicked, we fhculd taka heed that private fpleen do not rule us, but that only our intereft in Godsquarrel with them doch move us, as the Pfalmiftdoth here: For they (peak againft thee wickedly. 6 . What the wicked do or fpeak againft Gods iervanrs for righteoufneife lake, it is againft God in effect 5 They [peak againft thee 3 and art thy enemies. 7. Such as profeffe themielves to be the people of God, and yet do periecute the godly vmjuftly, under the colour of law, or fome fpecious prerences,do in efVeft take Gods Name in vain: Thine enemies take thy Harr.einvain.

Ver, 21. Do not I hate them, 0 LORD, that hate thee ? and am not 1 grieved with thofe that rife tip a* gain ft thee ?

22. I hate them with f erf eft hatred : 1 count them mine enemies*

After declaring his judgement of his enemies, heprofeffeth hit hatred to their perfons, qualified with wickednefie, as is [aid Whence learn, i. There are fome men, who befide the common enmity which is in all men againft God, do oppofc themfelves in an eminent w.y againft God and godiinefle, as haters of God$ for this the text doth prcfuppofc i. Such as

art

arc perceived open enemies unto God, we may lawfully hate them, wiihout breach of the law of love : for the love which we owe unto God abfolutely, giveth warrant to hate them who op-pofe God comparatively; Do not I bate them that bate thee? 3. Injuries dor* againft God, fliould touch and affect us, no lefic nearly then injuries done to out- felves 3 And am ngt I grieved with tbofe tbat rife up againft thee ? 4. When god is injured by our enemies, we had gn at need to look to the fincerity of our af-fe&ion 3 that our hatred againfl them, and out zeal for ^od and his trirh be upright, fo as we may fay with David, I bate them with a per je ft hatred, Icoumtbcm mine enemies.

Ver. 25. Search we, 0 Qod, and k?(n» my heart* try me>and kpoVr m) thoughts*

24. And fee if there be any kicked way in me: and lead ms in the W4j ever la fling.

When 'David hath fearched hi ml elf, and is approved of his own confeience, he offereth himfelf over again to be fearched by God. Whence learn, 1 As we have need to try oar zeale, when Gods quarrel and our intereft are joyned, that there be not fomedre^s of our ill humours mixed therewith: fo muft we not reft upon the teftimony of our own conscience in this cafe, but muft offer cur heatt to be fearched of £/od, over and over again, and muft intre?t him to purge us or every corrupt mixture, as David doth; Search me 0 God, and know my heart, try me, and know my thnigots. 1. He had need to be fincerein all his waves, who cravethGods approbation in any one of his wayes, for if a man be corrupt in any of his waves, he may deceive his own heart in all other of his wayes; this doth David import, when he faith, And fee if there beany wicked way in rne. $ Every wicked way, is a way of grief, trouble and for-row : for fo imports the name given to it in the original.4vThe good way allowed of God, is a lafting way appointed of CJod of old, and will be approved by him for ever: Lead me in the way evcrlafting, 5. We cannot walk in the wayes of God, without his actual and effectual leading of us therein, befide his direction given in common by his Word; and therefore we had need to pray with David, Lead me in the way ever lafting.

PSALME

PSALME CXL.

DJvid, > being purfued for his life 3 and loaded with falfc oi wicked men, payeth, Firft, for deliverance trom them, v. i 3 1> ^ 4, 5, 6, 7. Secondly, prayeth againft them, Vn S, 9,10,1i« Thirdly, declarcth the Lords gracious aniwer, v. 12, ij.

Vcr. 1. T""V£AW w<?, 0 LORV, jnm the

\_Jrevtl man : preferve me from the vu olent man. 2. which imagine mifchiefes in their heart 1 continually are they gathered together for yvarre.

3• They havejharpened their tongues hke a ferpent : adders poifon is under their lips* Selah.

In his prayer for deliverance; Firft, he requcftethforpre-fervation from their cruel devices and flanders, v. 1, z, 3 Then rcpeitech his prayer for prelervation from the prefent dangers wherein he was, by reafon of the fnares bid for him, v. 4,?. Thirdly, he repeateth his petition, with fomc fpecial grounds of confidence and hope to be relieved, v. 6.

From the firft requeft> L<\ir*,That moft innocent and godly men, by the calumnies of the wicked, arc fomctimes call in great dangers, whence they fee no appear.mce of deliverance, for clearing their name, or faving of rheir life, except God finde it out t and in this cafe God is 3nd fhould be their refuge 5 Deliver me, 0 Lo*d,from the evil mm. 2. How wicked foever, how violent foever the enemies of Gods children be, God can refcue his icrvants out of their hands : Preferve me from the *uz-clcntman. 3. Such as nor only in fit of paflion, but alio in cold blood, refolve to do mifchictro the godly, may juft'y beefteem-cd evil men, violent men, for fo arc they heredefciibed 5 Which

imagine

3%o PSALM ECXL.

imagine mifc bief in their bczrts. 4. When wicked men have de* viiVd vhjr rhey can by themfeives againil the righteous, they canno: truft thei: own wits> as able to make the plot faft, e x-cepc rhey contult o::_ with another frequently, that they may " joync their couniels ^nd their forces'together, to nuke the fnarc fure > (Jonti mully they are gxtberei together for rvirre. 5.That wickci men may rhe better carry ou their defigne againft the godly, they polfelTc the (impla people with prejudices or them, deviftngani fpreading falfe lies, and bloody calumnies of them, contrived with v*ieat cunning,and made very probable in appear-ance,left any lhould pity them, when they are cut off $ They bdJi fhxrpenyd their tongue life aferpent; 6. When the wicked have vented deadly lies of the ^odly, rhey have in reaiinefl'enew flUn-ders and capital enmes to charge them mih talulyi Adders poi-fonisunder their lips.

Ver. 4. Xeepme, 0 LORV, from the hands of thewkkfdx preferve me from the violent man, who have pnrpofed to overthrow my goings.

5. The proud have hid a fnarc for me, and cords, they have fpreada net bj the way*[the : they have fit grinnes for me. ScLib,

In his repeated petitionfor prefervation \ Lejrn y \Xt wil not fqf-fice the wicked to defame the godly, and murther them in heart and tongue, but alio they feek to hive them in their gi jps 5 excepc Godinrerpofc himt'elf for their fafety : ^ccpme> 0 Lord) from the hands of the rvicfei* z. The aefperlte refolution of the wicked to overcome the godly, muft not difcourage the godly, but ftiarpen their prayer . Urcferve me from the violent mui, rvho have purpofed to overthrow mjgoings. 3. Hunters and "Fowlers did never go more cunningly to work, by fnares, nets and traps to catch their prey 3 then the wicked go about to have the advantage of the godly, to bring their lit* under their power: the proud have laid a fnare for me and corfa) they btve fpr$sd a net by the my-fidefhey have Jetgrinnes for me.

Vcr.

PSALME CXL. j»t

Ver. 6. Ifaid unto the LORD, Thtuzrtmy God? hi an the voict ofmjfnpplications i OLoR ( D > ,

j. 0 GOD the Lord, the ftrengtb of my fa fad* tionx thoh haft covert A my head in the day of battel.

In the repeating of his petition the third time, withfeafoiif of hope to be helped 5 Law, i. The malice ofmenfhould move the believer to make ufe of Gods favour and friendship, and of the Covenant with him, I faid unto the Lord 3 tbou art my God; 1. The claim which faith laycth unto God, fhould proceed from • fixed purpofe, to (land to its right and intereft it hath in God: I faid unto the Lord y Thou art my\God. j. When faith findeth the Covenant fixed, then prayer hndeth vent, and the mart poureth forth his defire with hope, as here; Hear tbt voice of my Application y O Lord. 4. When misbelief doth prefent to the godly the greatneffe of the danger, the mans own weaknefle,and the power of the adverfarie, faith ihould prefent, in opposition tothefe, the ftrcngth of God and his power for falvation, as en* gaged bv Covenant to the behoof of the believer t O Cjod tbt Lord, tbcjtrcngtb of my falvation. 5. As prefent ftraits fliould bring to minde by-gone dangers and deliverances, fo bygone experience of delivery rttould ftrengthen faith for the prefent: for this ufe "David maketh of his prefent and by-gone exerdfe* 6. In time of danger God ufcth to inttrpofe hirnfelf, for thepre* fervationof hisownfervant, more nearly and clofely, then a helmet cleaveth to a mans head in the day of battel, and doth ward oft* a blow better, then any piece of armour can do, as Davids experience teachcth l Thou baft coveted my bead in tbi day of battel.

Ver. 8. Grant not , otORD y the defires of the nicked : further not his vpieksd device , left they txJt tbemfebes. Selah 4

9. As for the bead of thofe that compaffe me abonti lit the mifchief of their oVtn lips cover them.

10. Let bmring wales fall npon them, lef them

Y h

be caft into the fire : into deep pits y that they rife not up again.

i (. "Let rot an evil Speaker be eftahlijhedin the earth: evil/hall bunt the violent man to overthrow him.

In the fecond part of the P'falme, wherein he prayeth againft his enemies; Learn, i. God can overthrow all the devices of the wicked,,, and the wicked can en\ct nothing againft the godly, except God grant them their derive; for fo much doth this prayer import: Grant not,0 Lord, the defires of -the wicked. 2. The prayer ojj the godly againft the plots of the wicked,; haih more power to overturn them, then the wicked have wit or ftrength to promote them; Further not his wicked- device. g. When one of, the wicked tindeth tuccefie in his wicked devices^ all of them grow proud, and do misken God for that caulV: Furrbcr uot his- wicked device, left theyxxalt tbcmfelvcs. >4.God will not give alwaves l'uccefle unto the wicked cppreffois of his people, were,there no other reafon for it But this one, oocrulli the pride cfj his enemies, and to make it ccafe ; Further, not bis wicked device, left they exalt tbcmfclveu 5. What I mifchie { * the wicked have threatened.to bring upon the godly, (hall'fail upon themfelves, and bitter as gall iTiali their part be, (as the Word will naffer, in the Original,) who are chief Ring-leaders of the perfecution of tfye godly : As for the heal of them that compare me about, let the mi (chief of their own lips cover them. 6.The overthrew of the wicked /hall come upon them, as the mine of a wall covering them and (mothering them : Let mifchief cover them; their torment .(hall be piercing andintolerable, like the perdition of Sodom ; Let burning coals fall upon them; no cfca-ping for them, Let them bccafl into the fire ; no getting out of . the torment, no recovery for them : Let them be caft into deep pits, that they rife not again. 7. Backbiters and Calumniators ihall not only be debarred from heaven j but alio Gods cmrfe (hall follow them on earth, and not fu.fFa.them nor their poftei.ity to enjoy quiet pfofperity in the world : Let not an evil Speaker be efablijbcd in the earth. 8, When eppreffion hath cried to God againft theopprcflbr, it is fent forth as a Serjeant to follow'him ut the hcels-vvhereeverhego, till it overtake him , and throw Kim headlong into deftruclion; Evil fall hunt the violent man tqCve'/tkrQwmm. **

Ver.

Vcrf. 12. I know that the LORD rvi/l maintain the caufe of she .affiitled: and ;thp tight of the pocre.

13. Surely the righteous flail give, thanks unto thy Name : the upright fball dwell in thy pre* fence.

In the third part of the Pfalme, is the anfw£r of the Pfalmlfts prayer, in a comfortable perfwafion of Gods maintaining cf his perlecuted children,& delivering of hisovvn afflicted fervants out of ah 1 theirtroubles. Whence /fcav/ji.Whofoever (hal perfecute and opprefle the righteous, (hall finde God their Party, joyned in the caufc with the afflicted : The Lord -will mimdutbe caufe of the afllifted. 2. The faith of Godsaffifhnce is a" Tufficient comfort to the godly, to uphold them till the'deliverance come, andthis periwalion God ufeW to give to his perlecuted fervants for their upholding; Ifyiowtbat tit Lcrd'ftiil miintaintbe caufeoftbeiffliftcd. 3. The main thing which the Lords fervants do care for, is their caufeand their right, that whatsoever they fhaU fuffer, their caufe may go free and be juftified : and this the Lord doth fecure here : The Lord will maintain the caufe of the afflifled, and the right-of the poore. 4. Whatfoever hardinip the godly do meet with in their exe:cife> joy. and deliverance fliall clofe their troubles, ani whatfoever prayer anl mourning they fliall be driven unto by perfecuucm, praife and thankfgiving fliall be the laft part of their trialjand this the Lord will have his people perfwaded of: Surely the righteous jbatl give tlnn^s unto thy Name. 5. Whatfoever imperfections the beleever fliall finde in himftlf, yet his upright and fincere dealing with God,by the daily acknowledgement of vvha: isamiifcin him, and by his making ufe of the remedy held forth in the Gof-. pel, thall prove him to be a righteous man; for 1 he tigbtc Qui a nl the upright, m.m here-is»one« 6.Befide all the c^fortaDle blinks: of Goiis•kindncfl'e in this woild, granted to.the believer, he hath afliirance of pcrfeverancc, and of everlafting fellowfhip with. God; The uprightjbtttfaeU ™ % bypre/erne.

Y %

frSALMB"

PSALME. CXLI.

THeHalmift,beingindiftreffebythe malicious perfection of his adverfaries, prayeth for relief, and for a holy carriage under his trouble; till his own full delivery, and till his enemies diftru&ion (hould come. The petitions are feven; the firft is general, for acceptation of his perfon, and granting of his prayer, v. t, x. The next is, for direftion of his (peeches, v f 3 * The third is, for guiding of his heart and a&ions,v. 4. The.fpurth is, for the benefit of the fellowfliip of the Saints, by their wholefome counfcll and admonition, v. j. witlrtherea* fons thereof, v. 6,7, The fifth is, for the comfort of fpirkual communion with God, v. 8. The fixth is, for prefervatifcn from the plots of the enemies, v. <?• Thcfcventh is, for the q-ver throw of his enemies, v. ie.

VcrC 1 • T OKT>^lcrie mto thee, mafybaft*

jl-j mto me : give tare mnto my voice

rvhen I crie umo thee.

2. Let my prayer be fetforth before thee zsincenfti

and the lifting up of my bands as the evening

facrifice.

In the firft petition, which is general, for granting of his prayer, and accepting of his perfon in his prayer 1 Ltfrn,i. Ml f-beliefe doth feek many wayes for delivery from trouble, but faith hath but anc way, to gojo gqdt to wit, by prayer, for whatsoever is needfull: Lord, 1 crie unto thee. 2. Prefent danger, or long continuance of trouble, doth put an edge upon the devotion of the believer: Lotd>I crie unto thee. j. Albeit the godly dare not fet a time to God when he (hall come, yet they may declare the ftrait they finde themfelves in, and what need chey have of (peedy help: Make bajte unto me. 4. As it is an ordjnarytemation fuggefted co tbe g°dty In the time of trouble,

WIWA

PSALME CXLI. ;i$

when they pray and do not receive anfwer, that their fupplication Is mif-regarded: fo fhould it be repelled by renewing of our petition fo oft as it is offered, as this example tcachethj Give tare unto my voyce, when J cry unto thee. f. The prayer of Gods children, is very fwcetfmelled and acceptable to God, through the mediation ofChrift, as the ceremonial offering of incenfc, and facrifice ( whereunto David here doth allude* did fignifie r Lit my prayer bejel forth before thee y as incenfd and the lifting up of my bands, as the evening facrifice . 6. Our prayers unto God fhould be joyned with lubmiflivenefle of fpirit, ielf-denial tnd hopefull dependance on God / for fo much doth the gefturc of lifting up of the hands in prayer of its own nature fignlhe, and therefore here thegefture is put for the prayer, which fhould be joyned with fuch an inward difpofitionj Let the lifting up of my bands be v evening facrifice.

Vcrf. 3. Sit a watch ( 0 LORD ) hfort my month*, kfifthi door of mj tips ;

In the fecond petition, which ismorefpecial,for diie&ion of hisfpeechesi Learn, uThc godly in their trouble, efpccially by perfection, are under temation to hurt their own caufe by unadvifed tnd paffionate (beeches: for this doth the prayer im«> port, fc As words of pamon from our muddy affection, arc ready to break out in time of trouble, fo fhould we in the fenfe ofourowninablitytotippreflfethem, intreatGodto bridle our tongue, that nothing break forth to hisdifhonour, Set &mt(b B 0 Lord) before my mouth 4 Keep the door of my lips.

Vcrf. 4. Incliui not mini heart to any nil thing, to praElifi Vtickfd works With men that work* iniquity ; and lit mi not oat of their dainties .

Inthe third petition, for guiding of his heart, and a&ions ; Learn, 1. The godly arc Uibje&alfo to another temation under perfec ution,to bz driven to fome unlawfull way of revenge or fomefinfull compliance with the wicked, cither by terror or Y j rilvement

allurement, as this petition doth-import, i. The holieft of ,<7odsfervantshtvcrea(onto pray unto God, head m not ittt*. ientation, when they conftder thattheir .daily finning, may open a door to juftice,to give over their hearts, for a time, to its own. natural wicked inclination : for in thefenfeofthis danger, 2>^-vid prayeth; Enclinnnotmy heart to any evil 'tbi&g. 3. i As .to meet injuries with injuries, is not a meanes to be rid out of trouble, but a meanes to involve us in further .trouble: fo alfo to, comply with workers of iniquity, for fear of danger from them, :s not a meanes to efchew trouble, but nther a meanes to draw down Gods wrath :Eneline not ny heart to any evil thing, to pra-Bifemckedrpor^iwith them that work iniquity. 4. As the Lord is the only Sovcreigne over the heart, m whofehand the heart is, to turne it where hepleafeth, lo will he being inrreated by prayer, fee it right; Incline not, my heart to any evil thing. 5. Theprefent pleafure and commoditie of finne, is in higii eftimation with thejinner, and much fweeter to him then what he may lawfully enjoy; The plexfures of finne are hU deljaics, f>. No man can keep himfelfe from being taken with the allurements of a /infull courfe, except the Lord preferve him : Let me not eat of their dainties. 7. The holieft men in Scripture, have been mod fenfible of theimpotency of their own free will, and inability to refift teritations^ or to bring forth the habits of grace unta action 5 moft diffident of themfelves, moil dependant upon God, moft carefull to make ufe of meanes, and confdeneious in following of ordinances, as their prayers do reft i fie/ Encline not my heart to any coil things let me not eat of their dainties*

Verf. 5. Let the righteous (mite me^ it (hall be a tyndneffeiAntflet him reprove me y \t {hall be an ,ex~ fcdent oite ^ which fhaH not break *»/ head*; for jet my prayer a/fo {hall be in their calamities.

The fourth petition, is for the benefit of the communion of Saints , wherein T>.ivid perceiving the mifchief which unhappy flatterers about the King, procured to the King, and to the godly in the land; he prayeth to God , to grant him fuch godly men sbout nim, as would never confent to any wrong deed of his, but Woulddiflwadehirhjdiifcnt from him, yea,reprove and rebuke

"J8«B

PSALME CXLI. 327

him rather*, if need were 5 whieh fort of frftridfy finitihg of him., he promifethfliall be molt acceptable to'him: and for this, he giveth foQr regions: the firit whereof is, becaufe he had fo mnchilove to his enemies as to pitty them in their calamities, and to pray for them. Whence kirn, i./As flatterers arc a plague to Princes, efpecially when they are upon u.njuftcourfes: fo righteous and faithfull admonifliers of us, iriwhatfocver place; we arein 3 are a notable bleffing, and worthy to be prayed for: Lcttherigbicousfmite me. 2. According as a-man doth hate finne, and love riehtcoufneffejfo he Hateth flatten y. and leveth ?o be freely dealt with, and -reproved or admoivTfhcd : for if is the love of righteoufnelfe, and hatred of finne, which maketh David by. Let tberightcous(mite me. j\ No manis tofarre-rhoi-rihed, but a reproof will be a wound ro his proud flefh :Lct the righteous' [mite me, 4. Free dealing and plainc reproof is a frnit'of Icve • unfeigned: Let tbcrigbtwus fmitcme* it JlkU beabjndncfie* 5. As moil precious oileis'to the body, foisthe tourifel), admom-i tion,antj reproof of the righteous to the foul : for the fruit of both is health and gladnefle j Let bim reprove me ; it flail ic : an excellentoilc>xvbicb{hall not break my bead. 6: The godly when they are pcrfecutcd, need -not to ieek private revenge ; for calamities do abide their perfecuto! s, which they by .faith -in' Goes WorAjrtiay clearly forefce, as T>ivii here doth prcfuppofc cjueftionablyj that their calamities were coming; My prayer ft 11 be in their calamities. 7. The Lords children mould be fo far from private revenge,and fo ready to come off that cgtxfrV, if they be tempted to it, thit they mould keep (0 much love ro thcifc adverfarics, as may make them ditcharge all commanded duties toward them, as David here is difpolcd, whofe words import thus much, if I werefet upon private revenge, Lord let me finds a friend to hinder me, becaufe Irefolveto follow < he duties of commanded love toward mine adverfarics-' For yet my prayer 4l(o {fall be in their calamities. And this is the hiftreafon ot the fourth petition.,

Verf 6. When their judges are overthrown fionyplaces: they fballheare my words , for thtyAre : Jweet.

Thefecoftd veafon isjfronf hispurpofctodcav tfjtfi thc : Gmtfe people, f who nowtlidperfecwe him, by the miflc'ading of their

Y 4 CQiiupc

yi%

P SAL ME CXU.

corrupt Rulers ) as wicb his kindly fubjefts, difciplet or children * and doth hope to finde them tradable Wbtncelearn, i. Difference muft be put between ring-leader sin an cvill courfe, snd thofe that follow it in fimplicity* for fo doth the Prophet here put difference betwixt the people, and their corrupt and kicked Judges, t. Wicked Rulers andmiMeaders of people, fhall be fearfullypunirtied, as they who are caft down from a fteep place, and fall among ftones > Tbcir judges Jhall be wcr-tbrown in ftony places, j. Mi f-led people (hould be kindly entertained, and inftrufted in the truth of Gods Word, as dilciplcs and children, fo Toon as the Lord doth offer opportunity: tVhtU their judges Jhall be overthrown in (tony places, they fkall heat my yoords. 4. As the Joftrine of grace and godlinefle is fweet and pleafant in it felfe, fo fhouid it be efteemed of by the preachers, and fo recommended to the people, and fo handled in the way of preaching of it, as it may be acknowledged by the people tobe fucfi \ and this (hall he, if with the deciphering of linne and the curfe, the remedy conftantly be holden forth in Chrift I ifwiththedo&rineofall moral duties, people be dire&ed to draw ftrength to obey them from Chrift, and to feek to have their fervice acceptable through Chrift; for thus (hall the words of the Lord be both pleafant and profitable to people: This courfedidDivWrefolve, Tbcy {ball bear mj words, Jor tbcyari

Ver f 7. Our bones are /tattered at the gr4ve mouth : as token one cnttethand cleave tb wood upon the earth.

This is a third rcafon, not only of the fourth petition, but al-

(0, and mainly of the whole prayer, for comfort and delivery

frorn perfection, wherein many of the Lords Priefts were fhine,

and many others of Davids friends were undone, and no more

regard had of their lives and bones, then the hewer of wood hath

regard to the chips which fall off in hewing: wherein David and

: his followcrs,were a type of Chrift,and of hisfollowers,whofe pcr-

ftcutionis here reprefented, and Prophefied of. iVbtnce leam %

1. Albeit {he death of the Lotds fervants be dear unto him, yet

their lives, and the burial of their bones, are no more regarded

by the wicked, then fo many chips of wood, which the hewer of

^rpodhewefb off with his; axe: Our bones w featured at the

grave*

PSALME CXLI. %%$

ftivts mouth, & when one tutteth mi cleevtik wnd upon tht forth* x. WhenChriftsfubjcfts 3rc fo entertained, ( as here is fee forth ) their cafe being piefented unto God, hath no fmall force to draw down delivery, and to bring a change of the affaires of their foes, as the force ot the rcafon annexed unto the prayer doth teach*

Vcrf# 8, "But mine ejts are Unto thee> O G07> the Lord: in thee u my truft j leave not mj font deftitute.

The fourth reafcn of the petition, relating mainly to the pray* er for delivery: after which is fubjoyned the fifth petition, including the fubftance of all his prayer. Whence learn> i. How great (Sever the darkneffe of his calamities may be, and how thick foever the doudes of prefent trouble are, to hide from us the Lords care of us 3 and his loving kindneffe unto us, yet faith muft look, and pierce through them all unto God, and to his power and conftancy of truth and love: 'But wine eyes art unto thee* i. Whenfoever faith turneth it felfe toward the Lord, it feeth fufficiency in God to help, as the man hath need* Mine eyes are toward tbcc,0 Ged the Lord. $. As it is good to be* licvein Godintimeofgreateft ftraitcs, fo it is good to avow our beliefe before God, and to obferve this for our further (lengthening, that we have obtained mercy to believe, as here Vxvid doth i Mine eyes are toward thee: in theek my truft. 4* A foul which hath God for a covering of prote&ion and comfort, hath alfo every condition it can be in, well feafoned • but the foul that lacketh this governing, is bare and naked, ani deftitute, wichout guard againft any evil which may fall upon it: againft this evil weliave great need to pi ay, heave not my joul deftitute* And this is the fifth petition in this prayer.

Vcrf. p. Keep me from the fnare which they have laid for me: snd the grinnes of the workers etf iniquity.

The fixth petition, is to t>e faved from the privie plots, which kis enemies had laid againft hlnu Whence haw, i. The ad*

fcrfrrics

verfaries of Gods people, or. perfecutors of the righteous for righteoufnefle^ are workers of iniquity, let them pretend unto godIineffe,lawes 3 orjuftice,asthey pleafe, for fo are they here defcribed. 2. Perfecutors of the righteous, ufe not to go (o openly to work> as to perfecute them direftly for righteoufnefie, butdomakeplauiiblelawesand ftatutes, which may feem rea-fonableto the world, and yet luch lawes as rhe godly cannot without finnc obey, and fo their commands doinfnarethe godly, as here they are called, fh&cs antgrinhts. $ . From the plots of perfecutors, and in fpecial from iniquity eftablimed by x a law, none can deliver the godly lb, as they (hall neither finne nor- fuf-fer the penalty, except God alone : %cep me from the fnare which tbcybxvc kid for me % and tbegrinnes of the workers of iniquity.

Verf. I o. Let the Wicked fall into their own nets : Vehileft that 1 withal efcape.

The feventh pctitioni?, as for his own delivery,,fo.alio for the overthrow of obftinate enemies, who cannot- b$ reclaimed. Whence leam, 1. The prayers againft persecutors - which are dited to the penmen of the Scripture, are prophecies .of their punifliment, and decrees whereunto the Church may fubferibe in the general : and this prayer is one among-the reft. 2, When the perfecutors do lay plots and fnares agajnft the righteous., they lay plots againft themfelves ; and there is no need of another plos for their ruine, fave that which is of their own devifing: Let the wicked fall into tbeir own net. $. It is not unufual to fee the overthrow of perfecutors, and the delivery of the righteous, wrought by one and ihefelf-famemeanes, and brought about at •onetime: let the wicked fall into.thdr own net, wbiiejitbat I mtkallcfcapc.

o— 1 \ .■;> i; ■ ..

PS AIM E

PSALME CXLII.

CMafcbil of David, <ffc.

THisPfalme doth fhew what was Davids ♦exercife, when he was in the cave of one cf the mountaines of Engedi, ( 1 Ssnu 24. ) flying from Saul: wherein he firft fetter h down his be> taking of himfclfc to prayer in general, v. i,> Secondly, the ftraits wherein he was for the time, v. $,4. Thirdly, what was the Tpecial petitions of his prayer, with the reaibns thereof,

Erom the infeription; LwrM. That when the.Lord doth

put any of his children in ftraites and difBcultie^ he is providing

inftruftion, and wife dirc.ftion unto them, and to others, by ttic

meanes, for this danger bringeth forth a Pfalme of inftruftion?

Mafibil of David, z. The profit which followed^ upon fharp

'■ cxercifes, is able to rccompence all the paines whereunto they are

put in trouble, as this particular inflance doth ihew. 3. It is

wifdomefbrustomarkthefpecral dangers wherein we fall, and

how we have behaved our felves therein, and to fee what ufe we

ftiould make thereof, as this example of Davids calling to mindc

of the danger he was in, in the cave, doth teach us.

Verf, h T Cried unto the LORD with my voice : JL With my voice umo the LO RD did I make my /application. 2. 2 poured out my campUint before him : I fbeVecd before him my trouble.

In the fetting down of his cxercifc in this danger, and how he made God his refuge by prayer; Learn, 1. The grace of God can fo calme a mans mind^n the deepeft danger of prefent death, as he may confidently put up his defire for delivery; and no danger can be fo defperate, but a man may by prayer be delivered out of it, oneway or other, as Davids experience teachcth; J cried unto tbc Lord) faith David t being in the cave, halfc bu-

ricdasina grave, Saul and his hoft being at the mouth of it. a. He that is acquainted with God 3 and haunteth his prefence by prayer> ordinarily will findc a ready way to go to God, in an extraordinary danger, whereof D<n/i4 in this difficulty, flieweth his experience* 3. The uttering of right words, with the voice in prayer, in the time of perplexity, is a work of faith, pre-fuppofe there were fo much inward confufion and multitude of thoughts in the minde, as might call in aucftion whether the fupplication of fo perplexed a minde could be an acceptable prayer; therefore Dsvid twice mentioneth the uttering of his voice: i cried with my voice, mtb my vohe. 4. It is afvveec mercy to have grace to pray to God, and is not only profitable for the prefent, but alfo the memory of this mercy is refreflifull afterward, as experience here doth (hew. 5. It may be an c2 fe to our minde, when we arc full of perplexity, and grief and fear, toteW the Lord what aileth us: I pound out my complaint before him* 6. To prefent our confufion and perplexity and trouble of minde, to w looked upon by God, and to be read by him, is a real! prayer or fupplication j I fbewed before bin my trouble*

Ver. 3, whin my {pirli y x»m overwhelmed V?ith~ inme f then thou kpeweft my path: in the way therein 1 walked, have they privily laid a fnan for me.

4. / looked on my right hand,and beheld, hit there Was no man that ^ohU k*o**t>refugifai{idmy : no man cared for my foul.

The fli aite wherein Ddvid was, did make his wit to faile him, that he knew not what to do : for albeit his caufe and carriage in it was approved of God, yet his enemies hunted him fo hard, as they had very nigh catched him in the fnare J his fouldiers who were With him fainted, and were ready to flilft for them-fclve$, and to render up \>tvii, if the army had approached to the cave, no man cared for his life, none would ftand to his defence* Whence le&n, 1. Trouble and danger in extremity, do put a mans wit on work to think upon all meane§ of poflible delivery, and when none can be found, the mirtde is involved in perplexity, and falleth down as it were in afwoon; My fpirit

mm

PSALME CXUI. jjj

WAf overwhelmed within mc. i. Whatfocvcr danger we may fail into, it is good that our caufc and carriage be fuch as God witt allow: This was Davids advantage here, When my fp hit mm overwhelmed with in me> then thou knoweft my path, that is, thou fpprovedft my part, who was unjuftly purfued. }. How innocently fo ever we behave our fclves, yet perfecators will not ccafc cohunt us, till fc they take os in the fnare, if they can: In the way wherein 1 walked have tbej privily laid a fnarc for me. 4. When great flraites do come, wordly friends and all who may be in danger for helping of us; will readily forfake us : and this is the lot of Chrift and his fervants, who in fuflering foe righteoufneffc, are left alone without all comfort or encouragement bom men: 1 looked on my right handy and beheld, but there was no man that would know me,refuge failed me> no man carei formyfouk 5, It is law full for a believer to make ufe of liwfull meanes for his delivery 9 and to all for affiftaiice of fuch as are bound to affift him, albeit be may fufpeS ro be refuted; as David did here.

Verf. 5. / criodunto theo , 0 LORD, 1 faiJ, 7 loon art mj refngt, and my portion in th$ land o( tho living.

6. %yittend unto my cry t for I am brought v$ry low , ddliver mo from mj ftrfecntor*: for they or* ftrongerthen /.

7. Bring my foul out ofprifon, that I msj praifo thy Name • the righteotu [hall compare me above : for thou fait deale hunt if fillj W$b two.

In the laft place, he fettcth down his laft refuge, and the words of his prayer, with the reafons to help his hope to be beard* Whence learu, 1. Albeit all men, and all meanes of delivery in the world (hould faile us, yet muft we not give over, but pray to God, and depend upon him, who never fatleth his fuppli-canrsthat feekhim,asD4vJJ did > I cried unto tbec, OLori. a. The leffe comfort we finde in the creature, we ihould truft the more in God, as David did, who when all foribok him, fa id

o God, Then art my refuse . $. G#i alone with us may fuffice

354 PSALME GXLIir.

as iiv every condition, •« hedid David ; Thou art my portion in the land of the living. 4- As the lenfe of our own weaknefs^ and of our adverfariespower, aiegoocT whetftones tofliarperi our prayer: fo the lower we be brought and emptied of carnal confidence, we may expect rhe more confidently hdp from GddJ as here Dayed reafoneth ; Attend unto my cry, far I am brought very low: deliver me from myferfecuiors, for they areftronger then J. ?. So long as the godly man is debarred from the benefit of Gods publick vydrfliip and ordinances, he is but in a prifon in his own eftimation; Bring my foul out of prifon. 6: The end of our pr ayer for delivery out of trouble, fhould be that we may the more freely and fruitfully fervethe Lord : Brivgmy life out of prifon, that 1may praife thy Name. 7. When any one of Gods.perfecuted fervants is delivered, it is a matter of comfort, joy and encouragement, and of mutual congratulation to all the godiy 3 who haveintereft in their righteous' caufe any way | The righteous JhaU cempaffe mc about* 8. Before a bodily delivery come, the Lord fometime giveth inward afTurance that it fhali come; for, iTborifkalt deal bountifully with me ; for Di-*uids words being taken as fpoken in the cave, do fhew fo much.

PSALME CXLIII.

DAvid being in great trouble of mind, for the long continu* ance of.his perfection by his enemies, and alio under fome exerciie of confcience^through the fenfe of his iin^prayeth in this Pfalme for deliverance in general; from his twofold trouble., v. 1,2. becaufe of his pitiful condition fet down 3 v. 3, 4> 5V &• Then he ptefleth his prayer in nine more fpecial petitions* in the reft of the Pfalme.

Ver. 1, ¥J Ear my prayer,O LORD,give e*r* to XT! my fupplhaticns : fa thy faithfulnefs anfwer me^ and in thy righteottfnefle.

2. And enter not into jndgement Kith thjfervant : for in tbj fight /ball no man Itving be jpfiifie'd.

In the prayer, as it is generally propounded $ Learn, - i. Out-* ward bodily trouble is able to raife trouble of minde, and trouble ofcorifcience alfo, efpecially when outward trouble continu-eth long, and God feemedi to debar prayer from acceffe, or not to give anfwer thereto, as this experience of 7)avid flieweth, 2, Whatsoever be the trouble of a mans minde, and from what caufefoeveritarifeth, prayer is rhefirft andreadieftmeanesof eafe and quietnefle, as here we fee in David, Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give earetomy fupplication* j. The Lords faithftil-neffe and righteoufneflc, which fcrve to terrific a natural man, arc props and pillars of comfort and encouragement onto the believer j who is fled to the throne of grace: In thy fritbfulneffc an* fwer me, and in thy rigbtcoufnefle. 4. When the confeience of fin oppofeth our prayer, or our hope of delivery our of trouble, it muft be anfwered by flying ro Gods grace : and when jufticc feemethto purfue us, then the prayer of faith doth change the Court of juifcice into the Court of grace: for albeit the finnes of the godly may rake peace of confeience from them for a time,, yet they cannot debar them from feeking favour arid pardon, according to the Covenant of grace, efpecially when they are ftu-dyingto ferveGod, as this example tiachech us: And enter net into judgement with tbyfervam. <;. There is no way of jufti-fication by the works ofc the Law, neither before regeneration nor after, but only by grace; to? David, a manof lingular holi* nefle, hhhfinicrnot into judgement rvhhtby'fervant, for in tby fight (Imll none, living be juftifyd :■ ro wit, if thoir enter into judgement with him according tQ, the law of rtoritf.-

■

Ver. 3. For the enemie hath perfecuted my foute be hath fmittenjny life do^n tothegrQHnd: he hath rnadem: tojtoell in dark**f*> as thofe thai have been long dead.

4. Therefore is my fftrit overwhelmed mthin me: my heart wthh me U defolate*

The

33$ PSALME CXLHL

Thcrcafonsof his prayer are two: the firft is taken from the ciifcrable condition, wherein the violence and oppreffion of the <nemie hath driven him, v. }, 4. the other is, from his careful ufe of themeanes for finding grace, v. 5,6. In the firft reaConj Learn, 1. After we have fled to Gods mercy, according to the Covenant of grace for remiffion of fin, we may confidently by forth all our worldly trouble before God, and hope for relief, as here Dd'M doth. 2. 1c is not iirange to fee the godly in a manner wracked by their perfecutors, and undone in their worldly condition, for (0 w as 'David fcrved : The enemie hatb perfected my foul, be bath fmitten my life down to the pound, be bath made me dwell in dtrlytejfe, as tbofcthMbive been long dead: and this he fpeaketh in regard of his being hunted from place to

!>lace, and forced to hide himfelf in the wilderneffe, and at ength to take banifhment upon him, and to live among idolaters in the land of darkneffe. $. Troubles when they are long continued, are able to daunt the natural courage *f the ftouteft of Gods fervants: for God, for emptying of his owne children of felf-conceit, and humbling them in the ienfc of their own wcak-neflfe,ufeth to fuffer trouble to hive more weight, then they could * before-hand apprehend,as hixt,Tkcrfore is my fpirit overwhelmed within me, my heart within men defolate. 4. How heavie fo-ever trouble be found, and how unable foevcr we finde our felvea to bear it any longer, yet muft we not fuccumbe, nor give over vrreftling, but muft prefent our cife unto the Lord, as this example doth teach us.

Ver. y 1 remember the dayes of old, 1 mtditata me aS thy worlds : / muft on tht mrkjfthy hands.

6.1 flrotch forth my hands unto then my foul chirft-tlh oft*r theaas athirfty land* Stlah.

From the fecond reafon of his prayer, taken from the confcl* enceof his diligent ufe of the ordinary meanes, for finding comfort and relief.* Learn, 1. The remembrance of our own for* mer experience, and of the experience of others of the Sainti fet down in Scripture, (which fhould have force to fupport our faith, albeit we have nothing of our own experience,) is * fit exercife for a fainting foul under trouble, as here we fee, I rmmbertbe dyes of old, I meditate on all tbj workf. a. The

Bit*

meditation of the works of Creation and Providenre, is a fit meanes 3lfo to fupport our faith in Gods Word, albeit we have no example, nor experience of any who had been in the like condition before us: for therein we (hall finde the evidence of whn the wifdom and Omnipotency of God can do, in performing of promifes $ J mufe on the vpoy^s of thy bands. 3 .Before we can draw profit by the pledges of Gods power apparent in his works, we muft refolve to meditate and mufeupon them at lea-fure ; for a flight look of thefe will not draw forth the profit -ableufeof them: I remembered, I meditate, Imufed, faith Va-vid. 4, Wi th meditation upon Gods works,earneft prayer muft bejeyned: Iftretcbfortb my hands unto thee. 5. When fafth feeth not only a proiife of help, but alio by the experience of o-thers who have been helped, a probability alfo of its coming (peed, icfaifeth a drought and longing for the fruit of the pro-mile, and kcepeth the eye fixed upon God, without looking^ for relief from any frhere elfe j My font tbirftetb after thee} asa'tbirfiy land,

Ver. 7. HedremfpeBJilj r .o LORD,, mySpkii faileth, hide not thj face from me : left 1 be like unto them that go down into the fit.

In the reft of the Pfalme, he pre {fee h this pratycr in nine petitions more particular: Thefirftis for fpeedy deliverance j the fccond for fome blink of favour, and both thefe have their rea-fons adjoynedinthis verfe. Whence learn, 1. Sore trouble and long delaying of Gods help , is able to (hake faith, and weaken, courage: Hear meffecdily, 0 Lord, mj heart faileth. 2«The beleever mv.il never give over fceking of Gods help, how nigh foever he be to failing and falling oft": Hear mc, 0 Lord ,mj (fir it faileth me. 3. Faith maketh uic of extreme dangers and inftant deft ruction, xs of wings to mount it fclf up unto Godj for death and d&ft ruction cannot be f) nigh, but faith finderh time to flee to its refuge, and run to God, toimerpofe himfelf before deftruction be executed s Hear me fpecdily, my f'piritfiilctb. 4. The Lords difpleafure apprehended in trouble* is more terrible then the trouble it fclf, and thelealt intimation or his favour,is verv life and delivery; for, Hide not thy face ffi v * me, was here Davids deepeft diff'reffe, and the (hewing of the

Z loft.

H% PSALME CXLIII.

lcaft blink of Gods favour, fhould have relieved him. 5. The Lord will not fufTer his childrens faith to be over fet, albeit hq fufferit to be hardly aflaulted : Hide not thy face from me , left I belike to them that go dowuto the pit, or left I be like to them that perifh. 6. The lenfe of trouble and weaknefle in Gods children, acknowledged before God, is more able to bear them through from under their troubles, then all the ftupid (toutneflt of contumacious mindes, as the experience of this Champion T>Avii fheweth unto us.

Verf. 8. Can feme to hear thy loving kindnejfe in the mornings for in thee do I truft : caufe me to know the way wherein I fhould walk, for 1 lift uf myfottk unto thee.

The third petition is, for timous comfort in the Word of pro-mile: and the fourth is, for direction in the way of Gods obedience, and both have their reafons adjoyned in this vetfe. Whence lesrn, 1. The confclation which the believer doth feek, is that which is promifed in the Word, and he will content him-felf with the comfort which cometh by'hearing, till the full ef* fed ofthepromifecomc: Caufemctohear thy loving lyndneffe. 2« That comfort is indeed early, and fuffickntly timous, which cometh before we perirti or defpair 5 Caufc me to hexr thy loving kindncfl'e in the morning. $.Trufting in God without comfort, is areafon toperiwade us we fhal have comfort,and the readied way that can be to come by tt;|£te/c me to bear thy loving bjndncffc; for in thee do I truft* 4. As it is the believers trouble to be >in fuch perplexity, as not to know how to behave himfelf in it: fo is it a part of his comfort and delivery, to underfland what to do next, and how to behave him felt: Caufe me to know tip way wherein Ijhould Willi* %> He who feeketh direction from God^ muft lift up his heart offall diverfions, and depend on God only 5 for, I lift up myfoulc to thec 3 is the reafon of his petition to be directed.

Ver. 9- Deliver me\0 LORD, from mine entmier* 1 {lie mto thee to hide me,

TAt

PSALME CXLIII. ftp

The fifth petition is for delivery from his enemies, whereun-^ to a reafon is added here. Whence learn, i. As there is no ene-nne, from whom the Lord canno* deliver a man who is reconciled, how potent foever the enemie be: fodeliverance from oue Enemies is a fruit of our friendfhip with God ; Deliver me front mine enemies, i. Albeit our enemies had compaifed us foi a$ there were no apparent efcape, yet the believer may finde a hi-diug place in God ; J flic unto tbee to bide me.

Vcr. io. Teach me to do thy will; for thoti art rny God y thy Spirit is good: lead me into the land ofup' tsghtnefie.

The fixth petition is for grace to walk righteoufly andholily^ till he came to heaven, which he calleth the land of uprigbtnejfe. Whence Ititn, i.In time ot trials and troubles men are in no leffc danger of (inning and foul-lo{ing,then they are to fal into further bodily dangers and inconveniencies, and hayc need, in the fenfe of their inability, to walk circumfpeftly, and to feek direction from God : Teach me to do thy Ttill z. The Covenant of grace wherein the believer is entered, giveth ground to pray and hope for the growth of fanctification: Teach me to do thy will, for thou art my God. 3. We have need ot fuch teaching, as hath with it leading, fuch direction, as hath with it ftreng;hening unto obedience, fuch information as doth direct us, not only in the general rule, but aUb how to apply it in particular actions^ and which doth not leave us in any part or our dutie to our felves : Teach me, lead me. 4. Heaveuistheland of uprightneife, anct we mull have the Lords conftant teaching, andhisconftanc leading of us, till we be poflefled of heaven ; Lead me into the land ofuprigbtnejji. ?. The teacher and leader of believers, iri the obedience of Gods Word and Will, is the Spirit of God, whofe goodnefle muft be oppofed to our natural finfulnefle anJ ill defcrving: Thy Spirit is good, lead me into the land of up-rigbtneffe.

Vcr. it. J2*ic{enme,0 LORD, for thy Names

Jake: for thj righte oh fneffe fake, bring mj fonle out of trouble,

The feventh petition is, for fome reviving of his damped and dead fpirit, and the eighth is, for ending the courfe of the enemies peifecution of him, and reafons are fubjoyned to both. IVhencelexrn, l. Albeit believers be fubjed to foul-fainting and deadnefle, yet they retain life fpiritual in fuch a meafure, as maketh them ftill fenfible of their own weaknefle, and able to bemoan themfelves unto God, who is able to revive them % ^uickr ten me, 0 Lord, i- It concerneth God in his honour, to revive uhefpirits of tre contrite ones, when they have their recourfe bnto him $ Quicken me, 0 Lord, for thy \ts(jmes fife 3 .Al-cit the Lord acquaint his children with trouble, yet he will not fnffer them to lie ilill in trouble, but will in due time fee them free; Bring my joule out of trouble. 4. The Lord will have his juftice not terrible to his children in trouble, buisbm-fortable and a pawne of their delivery from their oppreffors ; for thy rigbteoufneffefa^e, bringmyfoul out of trouble.

Ver. 12. And of thy mercy cut off mint enemies : anddeQroy all them that tfflitt my foule; for I am tbyferv&nt*

The ninth petition is, for the overthrow of his defperatee^ ncmies, whercunto reafons are added. Whence learn , 1. The enemies of the righteous who are perfecuted for righteoufnefle, ih^Jperifh ; Cut off mine enemies, deftroy them all. z. Mercy to the Lords opprefled children, and juftice againft their enemies, go together 5 and the work of juftice on persecutors, is a work of mercy to the opp re fled : Of thy mercy cut off mine enemies . 3. As the confeience of endeavour toferveGod, giveth fweet refrefhment in time of trouble.* fo our fhort coming muft not deprive us of the title of fervants, but we muft aficrt our in-tereft in God our Mafler and Lord, f o long as we Ioyc to do his will, 2s David doth here; for, Iamtbyftnant.

PSALME

PSALME CXLIV. 3*1

PSALME CXLIV.

4vid being now King, but yet not fully Ceded on his ._,'chrone, in this Pfalme givcth thanks to God for the work already wrought, v. i, z> j 5 4. and Jprayeth for compearing the deliverance, and fetling or him in his Kingdom, v. <r, 6, 7, 8. and in hope to be heard, promifeth praife to God, v. 9 , 10. and I in the laft place, repeaterh his petition, with reafons taken from. the benefit which (hould redound unto the Lords people, by feeling of him in his Kingdom, v. u, 11, ij, 14.

Verf/i. TyLeJfeibe the LORDmyfirengtb, JD which teacheth my hands to Warre, and rny fingers to fight,

2. Mygoodnejfe % and my fortrttfe, my high tower % 4ftdmy deliverer t my Jbield, and htin whom Itrujl: nhofubdueth my people under me.

3. LORD % what is man % that thoH taksfl knowledge of him ? or the fonne of man; that thou makeji account of him f

4. Man is Ubje to vanity : hi* d*ycs are as a JJjMlofy that pajfeth away.

In V>xviis thankfgiving for what the Lord had done for him; Learn, 1. As we are to praife God for mercies received, when we would have new mercies: To we are to ftrengthen our faith for receiving new benenrs, by looking wh.it we have received already, as David doth here. 2.The believer hath all his abilities and furniture, not fo much in what is received already in him-* felf, as wizhout himfelf in God : IHcffcd be the Lord my (Irength. 3. As what skill, what furniture offtrength, what fucceffe a man hath in any thing, is of the Lord; fo the acknowledgment thereof, isbothapartofhisthankfulnefleumo God, Z J and

andameanesof the confirmation of his own faith : Sfc/Jii 6? }be Lord myftrengtb, which teacbetb my bands to war, and my fin-gets to fight. 4. What the Lord is in his own nature, he is in his good-will, CDvenant, and operation. toward thebeleever, and fo appropriate unto the believer as his own treafure, out of which he is furnifhed in all things: therefore Diu/i calleth him, Mygoodneffe. 5. Many evils are ready to rum in upon thebe-Jiever, which the Lord wardeth offas a bulwark : and upon this accounc David faith, Myfortreffe. 6. When trouMe from the world and inferiour creatures do fight againft the believer, the Lord liftethhim up above all, and compafleth him about with defence j for this, David faith, tyybigb tomr* 7. Albeit it^ pleafe:h 'he Lord fometimeto let trouble in upon the believer yerhefufFevethnotthebefjevertoperim therein, nor the trouble to harme him more then if it had been kept off: for this caufe, David catttihGo&y My deliverer. 8. Albeit the Lord will guard the be! ieveronall hands, when he is to enter the lifts with an enemie, yet will he be employed for this end/ for this piQfeDix;i4compareththe Lord to a ftiield or buckler, and callethhim, CMyJbield. .9. The multitude of wayes, how God is,andmaybefteadableuntous, ferveihtomikeufe of him by faith, according to our feveral necefftties, as David teacheth, faying, It is be in whom I truft. 10. As the light of faukmew-eth what God is to us by right and Covenant: Coalfo it fhew-£?h to us, what are h& operations and particular benefits beftowed upon us; Ituhc, Qfaith Divid x ) who fubdnetb my people under me. 11 Gods mercies ate then moft highly efteemed of, when the belecve: is humbled in the fenfe of his humane frailty and unworthinefle in general, and of his own in particular; Lord, what is matt that thou tafieft knowledge of him ? 12. It is a mercy to be wondered at, that the unworthinefle or man, doth neither hinder God to love him, nor to efteemof him: What is the fon of man that tbou ma\e(t account of bim ? 1 $. There is pothing in a mm wherein he can glory, nothing which can defer ve any thing' at Gods hand, and all natural perfections are but the fhadow of fomething in effect: Mm U life to vanity. 14. Were there no more to abafc a man, have what he may have in this world, his mortality and ftiorcnefle of life is a fufficient reafofi for it $ His dayes are a Jhxdow thatpaffctb amy, and all this commendeth the riches of Gods grace and good-will ta man, and hclpeth the believers faitfya^ajnft the enmity of man*

PSALME CXLIV. 345

Ver. 5. Bow thy Heavens, 0 LORD, and come downe : touch the mountaim 7, and they /ball fmofy.

6. Cafi forth lightning, andjcattcr them, /hoot vtot thine arrowes and deflroj them.

j. Send thine hand from above, rid me, and deliver me out of great Waters: from the hand offirange children.

8. whofe month fpeakcth vanity : and their right hand is * right hand of falfbood.

In the next place, he pnyeth to God to let forth his power, for fobduing the reft of the Kingdome under him, by repreffingo/ his enemies, and faving him from their contention and confpi-racies againft him. Whence learn, u How nnworthy foever a man be in his own eyes, he may feek great things of God,accoi d* rag to the eftimation and rcfpeft he hath in Gods eyes: for upon this account David prayeth, that God would bow the Hca* vens anttome down, for bis help, that is, would humble him-felf fo far as to own his owne fcrvant. i. If God pleafe to ma-nifeft himfelf for any of hisfervants againft the higheft powers on earth, they (hall fcon feel the force of his wrath, like fire taking hold on them : Touch the moumaincs, and ihcy Jhalt fmoafi. 3. No man can ftand againft him who hath thunder and lightning at his command, and arrowes of deftiudicn, to fliootashepleaftth : Caft forth thy lightning And Jcattertbem, Jhobt out thine arrowes and deftroy them* 4. What foever the power of adverfariesmaybe, or the difficuitie or danger the believer can be in, if he mail oppofc Gods good-will and Omni-potency for him, againft the difficulty, he mall be Matter over it: Send thine hand, from above, rid mc } and deliver me out of great Waters. 5. The enmity of ialfe brethren, counterfeit Profef-fors of Religion, whofe words, Oathcs and Covenants cannor binde them, nor fecure the godly whom they maligne, is no lefle dangerous then deep and raging waters are, out of which God only can deliver a man ; for, 2)elfaer me out of great wa* Mrs, is expounded here, 7)tlivcr mt from the hands of ftrango Z 4 children,

344 P SAL ME CXLIV.

children, rvhofe mouth ffeakctb vanity, and their right hand is a right hand of faljhood.

Ver. 9. 1 Willfing a net» (ong unto the % O God: Upon a Pfatterj y and an inftrumem of ten firings will Jfingpraifes unto thee.

1.0. It is he that giveth falvation to Kinos: mho deliveteth David his fervant from the hurtful faoYd.

He addeth his purpofe and promife to praife£od for the be-nefir which he prayeth for, as a reafon of his hope to be heard. Whence learn, 1* The Lord in wifdom, giveth deliverance out of trouble, by parts and degrees, and fo difpenfethhjs benefits, as he may give his children occafion, both oroftner prayer, and of oftne; new praifes, as Davids experience fhewcth, who having given thanks for the bringing of him to the Kingdomc in part, prayeth for enlarging ot the benefit, and promileth. upon this account a new thankfgiving : I mllfing a newfong unto tbee, 0 God 2. The uptight engaging of our heart to praife God for the benefit which we pray for, is an argument ot hope that we (hall have it, as here Qavid maketh ufe of it; IwiUfivgancw Song unto thee, OGod. 3, According as a benefit not yet received hath luflre, and doth mine in cur eye, fo are we content to be in Gods debt for thankfgiving, if he fhall grant it, (let the performance thereof prove as u may) 3s we fee here in ZXz* yidy who, becaufe the adding of the government of the eleven tribes unto his Kingdome over the .tribe cf tfudab, ieemed to be 3 great acceffion unto his prefempoffeffion, if God flioulJ give them to him, hepromifeth large thanks: Upon a Ufaltery, and aninfirumem oftei firings will I fmg praifes unto thecy which imports theju^fieft mealure of his pi ailing God, that he could im ginej and unto this his promife, he fubjoyneth the forme of thankfgiving which he uid purpofe to ufe. 4- h is not the place or power oi a man, how great foever he be, which cloth p eferye a man, but the greatefiof men muft be prcferved by Gqi, nolefTethen themeaneft, It is be that gheih flvation unto lyings. J. One experience is fufficient to a beleever, for confirming his raith in any general doctrine, as here, He who de-

ttvcrcib

^

PSALME CXLIV. 345

Uvercib David bis fervint from the hurtful fmrd> is fufficien; to make him fubferibe, that I* U he that givetb falvationto Xjngf.

Verf. 11. Rid me y and deliver me from the hand offlrange children, whofe month fpeaketh vanity : and their right hand, is rt right hand of fa J fbood.

12. That onr fonnes may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be M corner flones^ polifhed after the Jimilitude of a Palace.

13. That our garners may be /*//,' affording all manner of ft ore: that our fheep may bring forth thou* fands, and ten thoufands in our flreets*

14. That our oxen maybe firong to labour, that there be no breaking ** 9 nor going out : that there be no complying in our fireets.

He repflph his prayer for delivery from falfe and treache-rous enemies, whom neither Word nor Writ, neither Oath not Covenant could binde, and addeth yet more reafons of enlarging of his Kingdome, from the benefits which might come to the Lords people thereby. JVhence learn, 1. As the grcatnefleof a benefit, fo.alfo the greatneffe of the difficulties which may hin-» der that benefit, being forefeen, fhould ftiarpen prayer for the benefit, andagainft the impediments thereof, as here the repetition of, Rid mc> and deliver me, (<fc. doth teach us. 2. He that is called to pubiick employment or office of governing of a people fliould feek all things of God, for the pubiick good of the people mainly, and ihouLl make the holy peace and profperi-* ty of the people their main aime, as David here craveth deliverance from his enemies, end the enlarging of his power, that the people might profper and flourish both in children and riches; That our fonnes tnij be as plants, (^c. $.GodlyMagi-ftratesarca fpecial mcanesof peace and prosperity to the fub-jefts, nnd fliould be careful, as in training up of young men in grace and vertuc, fo as they may be fruitful inftruments of the publick^cod 5 as plants grown up in their)outb: fo alfo of young

women^'

34« PSALME CXLIV.

women* that they may be beautified with all endowments, which may make them to be godly mothers of the fuccecding 2ge : Our daughters may be corner ftones, polijhed after the fimilitude of d Palace. 4. Peace and plenty of corne and cattel, and other things needful for this prefent life, are benefits of God in them-fclfes, very helpful for the (landing of a Kingdom, and training up of the youih in goodnefle and vertue, and worthy to be prayed for; That 4ur garners may be full, affording all manner offtorc, that ourfieepmay bring forth thoufands > and ten thoufands in our Greets. ?. For the continuance of profperity and peace in a land,induftry in every mans vocation urequifitc,andfo righteous behaviour of the people, as may prevent not only warofFcnfive and defenfive, but alfo may prevene left any vagabond beggers be fuffered, or indigent perfons forced to complain in the ftreetsr for fo much is imported, while he faith, That our oxen may be Jlrongto labour, that there be no breai{ingin, to wit, of forreign enemies 5 7iorgoingout y to wit, of the people to invade other Nations 3 That there be no complaining in our ftrcets, for want ef juftice 01; neceflary maintenance

Ver. 15. Happy is that people that is. in fucb a cafe; yea, baypy is that people, who/c &od is th LORD.

HedoleththePfalme with the commendation of fuch a condition of a well-governed people, but with a provifion, that they be in Covenant with God, and believe in him. Whence learn^ 1. A people is happy which is fo governed and cared for,and blel-fed of God, as tfrael was under the reigne of David the fervant of the Lord; Pj/ify is that people that is in fuch acafc, as is here defcribed. 2. A peoples happinefle is not folid, where true Religion is not fetled : where the people is not in a Covenant of grace, and reconciliation with God, whatfoever worldly profperity they may have : but fo many as are in favour with God, and do walk in fiiendihip with him, they are bleffed, whatfoever he their outward condition: Happy istbatpeople> vebofeGodittbc lord*

PSALMB

PSALME CXLV.

Davids Pfrime of praife.

THisPfalme is altogether ®f prai fesj every verfe beginning with a feveral letter of the Hebrew^ e/4,2?, C, from the firft to thelaft: wherein David ftirreth up himfelf to the work ef Gods praife fomewhat more generally, from the beginning to i, 8. and from the eighth verfe, he p raife:h God more particularly, giving ten arguments ofpraite, unto the laft verfe, and clofeth the Pfaime with the engaging of himfelf anew again^ani exhortation of others to follow the fong for ever.

From the Infcription, which is A P[time of praife j Lcsme % i.Tt is our duty, and a point of fpiritual wifdom, to fet afide ail particulars of our own, and go about the *orfc of praifing God only, as this Pfaime teacheth us. 2. The praifes of God arc able to^ftrfl the volumes in the world, and what compofition of lettcr^flp be made in any language: and this the going tho-rowaUroe letters of the Hebrew J4,£,C, giveth usto under-(land. 3. It is expedient to commie to memory fome felcft Pialmes, efpecially about Gods praifes, for to help memory: The wifdom of God hath ordered this., and fome other Primes, fo as the order of the letters of the Hebrew Alphabet may help the memory not a little.

Ver. I. T WiUextoll thee, my God, 0 King: Yandl mil bleffe thy Name for k ev*r and ever. 2. Every day will J bleffe thee : and I will praife, th% Name for ever and ever.

Heengageth himfelf unto the work of praifing of God twice: in the former part of the Pfaime once, v. i, z, ani of this he giveth a reafon, and prophefietb that the praife of the Lord fhall be perpetuated throughout all ages, v. 3^4. then he engageth him-

PSALME CXLV.

fclfe the fecond time, and Prophecies of the Churches holding up this fong, v. f.6 7.

In Davids n\fl engaging of himfelfe to praifes Letrn, 1. The man who heart ly can praife God, is he that is reconciled to God; a man in Covenant of grace, reconcliation, and frien* fliip with God as David was: I will extoll thee, my God. 2. ThenisGodpraifed, when the man who giveth praife to God, is humbled before God, and all things created are put down under Gods feet, and God lifted up in eftimation above all : I will extoll thee. $* Every King mould do homage unto God, as King over him, as David doth : I will extoll tbee> my J$ing. 4. Praife (hould fo be given unto God, as the man who praifeth inay approve himfelfe to God, for fincerity ofpurpofe, as unto a prefent hearer of thofe praifes: 1 will extoll tbee, I mil blejfetby Name. 5. He who will praife God, muft; know him as he hath revealed himfelf, and praife him according to that rule: I will blejfetby'}{ame. 6 Seeing God is eflentully blef-fednefle in it felfe, and the fountaine of bleffing to his worfhip-pers, it is a point of our thankfulnefie,'and praife of him, to acknowledge fo rrfuch; I will biffe thy l^ame. 7. As an upright worfhipper of God, hath no time fet to his'.'purp^tof fer-vfce,fo no time mall end his task.- I will blejfe thy ^ftl> f or ever mi ever. 8. P.aifing of God is not a work fo^pemne dayes only, but aifo muft be ordinarily difcharged ; for every day giveth new reafons for it: Every day will I blcjfc tbec.

Ver. 5. great is the LOR Z>, and greatly to be prof fed : and his greatneffe is unfearchable.

4, One generation {ball praife thy workj to another ', and/hall declare thy mighty alls.

from the reafons of this engagement taken from Gods great-nelTe^and from the Prophecie ofthe continuall proclamation of it to be in the Church; ' eanu 1. The greatnefle of God ma-nifefted in his work, partly in the manner of manifeftation of hisprefencenowand then, by apparitions; partly in the amplitude of his dominion, of his power* of his wifdome 5 and of his providence, Sec. is worthy of our meditation, and to be acknowledge.! by us > and the Lord himfelfe worthy to be praifej for this

his

PSALME CXLV. 349

his greatnefle: Great U the Lord, and greatly to be praifed. i. When we have fearched what we can, and have medicated till we beraint, there is no finding out of the Lords greatnefle 5 Hk greatnejfeu unfearchabie. $ As it is the duty of the Church in eve y age topraiie God, and totranfmit rhe praifes of God to the pofterity : io it is the Lords purpole to have a care, that this duty be done in all ages: for it is piophtficd, One generation fiall praifc thy works to another. 4. Every age fhall have their ownadditionof Gods mighty ac~ts> in their time unto what he hath done formerly: Thy fall declare thy mighty aft J.

Ver, $. IVtiU ffeakjf the glorious honour ofthy Afajefij, and of thy wondrous worsts.

6. And m^n fhall ffeak of the might of thy terrible nUei : and 1 will declare tfy greatneffe.

y. They fhall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodneffe : and (ball fing of thy righ-teoufnefje.

.nhisprr

In DMptfergaging of himfelfthe fecond time to praife God, and inhisprcphcfyingof the Churches holding up the fong j Lewi, I. T n God, and in his works and waves, there is a wonderlull beauty and comelinefle, afplcndor orgloty, and a fhining Majefty to be feen ; and that fhould be obferved and talked ofby the obferve.Sjunro the edification of others : I will jpcaf^ of the glorious honour of thy Majefty. 2. There is no looking in up n God immediately, but men muft beheld him as he let— tcth forth him ^he in his Word and works to be feen : for, J will facade of thy wondrous ww^f,isfubjoynedtothe talking of Gods glorious honour and M: jelly* 3. When men do not mark his works of mercy and bounty, the Lord will (hew unto them worksof juftiee, that is .terrible works, and give them matter of talking upon this account: tAnd men lb all fpe il^ of the might^f thy terrible afts. 4 He who knewcthmoft of God or hath feen and obferved be ft his operations, fliould labour moil to fet forth his praifcj who ever come fhort in the duty, fuch a man fliould not faile, as David doth teach us ; faying, I will declarcthy great-neffc. ?. Albeit every work of God be matter of his praiie, yet the works of mercy and troth to, and for his Church, is the (pedal

C13I theme, which the Lord giveth his people to ftudy and declare: they Jball abundantly utter the memory of tb) great good* iicjj'e. 6. The righteoufnefle of God, whereby he juftifieth linnets, and fan&ifieth the juftified, and executcth judgement for his reconciled people, is the fweeteft objector the Churches joy :for the) Jball fing of thy r.igbteoufncjfe+

Verf. ■ Xi The I^ORBihgractons afidfull of com*

In the fecond pl;ic*eV~torpfaifeth God more particularly, and giveth fome ten reafons or arguments of his praife: thefirft is from his grace toward finners. Whence learn, i. Unworthi-neffe and ill deferving fliould not hinder finners to come to receive mercy and reconciliation : The Lord. is gracious, z. Albeit the (inner hath drawn on much mifery upon himfelfe, and juftice hath feized upon him for his finncs, yet may he be relieved and brought out of his mifery, if he feek the Lord t For the Lordisfullofcompajfion. 3, Albeit the Lord be fun^v wayes provoked to vifit with the red, yet he gives time to ? «Bnt, before he ded are his wrath: He is flow to anger. 4. mk Lords anger doth not endure longer then his people be humbled in the fenfe of their provocation. and when they feek pardon he is ready to grant it 5 He is of great mercy.

Verf. <).Tht LORfD is good to all, and hU tender

mercies ixklwr aUhis workes.

\hn sou v

Thefecond realon of'Gods praife, is his bounty generally unto all his creatures, and that for mans fake. Whence learn, 1. The Lord is good and kinde to all men, even the wicked not excepted: The Lord is goodwatt. .2. Gods mercy may be feen toward man, in the continuation of the whole courfe of the creatures, which being denied by mans finne, he might in juftice have abolished, or made them either ufeleifc to man, or elfe instruments of his grief.' His tender mercies are over all bk worses.

Vcrfc

Vcr. 10. Ml thy Works Jballpraife thee, 0 LORD : and thy Saints Jbsll tleffe thee.

The third reafon of Gods praife, is the glory of his works* which do furnifh matter unto the Saints to blefle God. Wlotnet learn, i. Albeit all men wer^Glent, the Lords works one and all, fhall fpeak each of them in their own kinde, to the praife of God i tAU thy mrfajhall putfe thee, O God. 2« Albeit crcry man doth not make ufe of Gcds goodncfle and works, but moft men do (mother the glory of God in their athcifme, yet the Lord hatha number who have found grace in his eyes, who ftiall ob-ferve Gods goodndfe> both to the creatures and to themfelves, and fhall blefle him upon that account; And thy Saints fall bleffe thee.

Verf, ii. They Jball/peakoftht glory of thy King* iieme : and talk of thy power.

12. 7jfim*ke known to the fonnes of men his night j ml: and the glorious Majefty of bis King* dome.

The fourth reafon of Gcds praife, is from the Lords dominion and power, whereof the Saints are both obfervers and Hcraulds. whence learn, i. There is noleffc matter of prai-fingGod,for the upholding, and governing of the creatures, then for making of them : They fiall /peak of the glory of tbf t{ingdcmc,ardtilli of thy power. 2. The Lord will have his Saints to inftruft fuch as are not converted, to know his glory, power, and Majefty, that they may be brought in, and made fubjc&s of his (pecial Kin^dome of grace; Thy Saints fhall {peak cf the glory of thy Kjvgdomc* and talk of thy power, to make l^uoven to the fonnes of men his mighty aUs^and the glorious M,1-jefiy of his *{ingdome.

Verf. 13. Thy Kingdome is aneverlafiing King~ dome: and thy dominion endurcth throughout all generations.

The,

352 PSALM E CXIV.

The fifth reafon of Gods praife, is from the perpetual endu* ranee of Gods Kingdome. Whence learn, i. Earthly Kin^s as they have bat tew fubje&s, Co they Hve but a fliort while m their Kingdome: bur the Kingdome of God, both that general Kingdome which he hash over all the creatures, and that ipecial Kingdome over the Saints in his Church, is from age to a^e perpetual; Thy Kjngdome inn everlapng J^ingdomc y and tby dominions endurctb throughout all generations.

Verf. l';. The LORD upholdetb all that faff: and raifeth up allthoje that be bowed down.

The fixth reafon of GoJs praife, is from his care and fuflain-ingofthe weakeft of the fubje&s of the Kingdome of grace* Whence learn, i. Albeit none of the fubjeds of the Kingdome of grace, are freed from the danger of falling into fin, and into trouble; yet they are preferved that they fall not fo deep as the bottome of finning unto death, or periihing in their troubles: for Godinterpofeth himfelre to prevent their perdition: The Lord upboldeth all that fall. 2. So many of the fubie&s of the Kingdome of grace, as feel their own weaknefle sflfcinability to {land under the burdei? 0 cither offinne or trouble^ both, do finde God a fupporterof them, a comforter of thenljfcd a deliverer of them: He raifetb up all tbcm that be bowed down.

- - Ver, 15. The eyes of All wane upon thee y and thou givefi them their meat in dnefeafon.

1 6. Thou epeneft thine hand, and fatijfiefi the de-fire of every living thing.

Thefevcnthreafonof Gods praife, is his particular care to maintaine the life of every living creature, fo long as he pleafeth to lend it, Wlicnce learn, 1. The Lord dorh not caft oft'the care of any living creature which he hath made, but ketpeth fo conftant an eye ot providence upon it, as doth make every living creature, in its own kinde, turne the eye of it toward him : Tbc eyes of a 7 wane upon thee* 2. There is a fecret inftind of nature in a,l living creatures; which leadech them toward their

mete

maker, m their danger to cry, and in their hunger to beftirre themfclves 5 and the bufincile which they make, going to and fro to feck their meat , is 3 kinJe of hoprng and waiting to finds fome fuflenance of their life,laid unto them by their maker, iri one place o- another : They write upon thee* $-. God doth not. frultra e the natural expectation of hungry creatures, but' givetfl to every one of them that fort of food which is fit for them : Thou giveji them their meat. 4. As in the variety of meat, fuitable to the variety of living creatures; fo alfo in the time anJ eafon of giving of it the wifdomr, riches #d goo^nefle of God doth appear f Tboug veft them their meat it due fcafon. 5. As in the meate,andin the time oi b< flowing ot it, fo alfo in the mealure beftovved, the Lords goodnefle and rich bounty is to bj feen toward the bafeft of living crearuies: Thou openeft thy kind, and. fatisfefi the defirc of eve*j living creature.

Verf, 17. The LORD is righteous in all his wajtst and holj in all his w crks.

TheeighdireafonofGodspraifejistrom his rightcoufneflei andholinefltjnail his proceedings and works, Wienie ledfil% \% As the Evidence of God about the creatures i \ common 3 is tobemarked,foalfoand efpecially his dealing with man, according to the rule of equity and juftice: The Lord is righteous ( faith he ) and holy. 2. Albeit the Lord deal otherwife in many things, then we could have expe&ed, and otherwife lome-timethen we can fee the rca(oft of his doing, yet is he alwayes Jutland holy in his proceeding: The Lord U righteous in hit wyes, and holy in his worlds. ?> It is not fufficicn: for us to give the glory of rightcoufnefle and holinefle unto God, only in fome of his waves, and works : or in his vvayes toward others, and noc toward our felvcs; or in his dealing with fome pcrfons, and not with all pcrfons, but we muft juftiGe the Lord in our hearts and words alwayes,and in all things, toward all men for ever; The Lord is righteous in all bis waycs> and holy in ail his worjjj.

Verf. 1 ?. The LORD \9 nigh unto all tlem that call upon bim ; to all that ca/lvpjn him t» truth.

ip. He will fulfill the defire of them th At fear him: he alfo vpiII bear their cr 7, and mil fave them.

The ninth reafon of Gods praife * is for his hearing the prayer of needy fupplicants. Whence learn, 1. The Lord loveth the praife^which arifeth untohim,from his goodnefstohispeoplc,and citizens of his Church, more then any other poiqts of his praise: as the often falling upon the praifing of God from this ground doth fliew. 2. Albeit God bV every where prefent, yet there is a fort of more, friendly presence, which Godgivethto chem that worfhip him, rhen that which is his common prefence every where; and this is the neameffe of grace and friendfhip : the L01& h nigh to them that call on him, 3. As God will have his gracious prefence opened up, and manifefted to his WQrfhippers, by prayer 3 fo will he have this favour alike patent to all that pray unto him, and feek him without exception of perfons: The Lord is nigh to all them that call upon him. 4. Becaufe there is a counterfeit and falfe fort of worshipping, and calling upon God, which is debarred from the benefit of this promife,to wit, when the party fupplicant is not reconciled, nor feeking reconciliation through Chiift the Medi it or, or is feeking&fome thing notpromifed,or fomething for acarnall end, that^fcf ma y ^ c " ftow it on his lulls: therefore he who hath right unto th's pro-mifc, muftbea worfhipperof God in faith, and (incere intention: and to fuch the Lord will mew himfelte nigh; He U nigh to all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. f Thofe Are wormippersof God in truth, who fear him, and fuch mens holy defires , are prayers which the L"rd will not re-fufe, but will fatisfie them: He will fulfill the defire of them that fear him. 6, If the Lord anfwer not the prayer of the man that fearerh him, at fir ft, yet when hecalleth in earneft, when he is in trouble, in ftraits and hazard, he will anfwer him, and clofe his exercife with falvati&n: He alfo will hear their eric, and will fave them.

Vcrf. 20* The LORD preferveth all them that love him : but all the kicked will he deftroj.

The tenth reafon of Godspraife, is from his different dealing with hi* friends, and with his foes< Whence Icaru, «. True

WQffhip-

wotfhippcrs, and true fearers of God, are perfons who love God, and fuch perfons fliall be fare, that all things fliall work to their welfare, nothing (hall hurt them; The Lord prefervetb alt them thai love him, i. All fuch as do not love God, but love to lie Hill in linne, and to follow their own lulls, fliall be as certainly wiihout exception destroyed, as the lovers of CJod (hall be prefer ved : The Lord pre fervctb all them that feur hint, but nil the routed mil hi deftroy.

Verf. 21. M f f month (hall fpeat^ the praife of the LO K C D : and let allflffi bleffe hi* holj Name, for

ever and ever*

He clofeth the Pfalme withapromife to praife the Lord yec

more, and exhorteth all men to blcflc him for ever. Whence,

learn, i. When a man hath faid all he can in Gods praife, he

fliall flnde himfelfe come iliort of his duty and his- obligation,

to praiL God to be flill lying on hi n, as this example of t>avii

in me clofe of the Pfalme doth flicw us\ 2. The Lord will be

praifedinourfpirits, and outwardly in our words and externall

exprefTionsalib j ZMy mouth Jhall fpeufi the praifes of the Lord.

3. Some duties belong to fome pci ions, and other duties belong

to other pcrfons> but the duty of prailing the L >rd, is the duty

of every man, albeit only the believer giveth obedience to this;

I Let all fief}) blcffe him. 4. It is nccdfull that every worfhipper

j ot God, in the difcharge of praife, remember their own frailty,

I and be humbled; Let all fie ft) blejfe him. f.The duty of praifirtg

I andbleflingOodmuftbefoholilydifcharged,as the Lord may

1 be honoured in etfed : Let all flejh blejfe his holy Name. 6.

! Suchasprai[eGodaadb»ei]ehimheartiiy, mall follow this ex-,

ercile tor ever: Let &X fiefb blejfe his holy Home, for ever

and ever.

A a * PSALME

PSALME CXLVI.

THis Pfalme is a Pialme of praife wholly, wherein, when the Pfdmift hath exhorted ail men to praife the Lord, he en-gageth himfelfe t® the wok, v. i, 2, Then he ceacheth the way how to praife God in eft' ft, to wir, by renouncing all carnall <:onfidence,and trufting only in the Lord, v. }>4, 5. Thirdly, hegiveth reafons, both of trufting in God,andpraifing of C/od : and cloieth as he begun, with the fame exhortation to praife God.

Verf. 1. T^Raife ye the LORD: Praife the

1 LoR'D.OmjfoHl 2. While 1 live will I praife the LO R D, I will fing praifesHKto mj Cjod^ktle 1 have any .being.

From the ftirring tip of others and himfelfe to praife God; Learn, 1. The dutyofpraihng Gcdisio neceflary, fo deferved by God, fo profitable to us,and fo fpiritual,that we had need frequently to ftiire up our felvesand others unto it; Praife )e the Lord. 1. For difcharging the duty of praife, all the powers of ;he foul mud be itirred up : the minde, to meditate 5 the memory ,to bring forth former obfervations 5 the heart and affections, for difcharging of the duty in the beft manner: Praife tke Lord, 0 my foul. $. Whatsoever concurrence we flndc ofo-thers in the work of praife, lefle or more, let us fet our felves fe-rioufly and heartily unto ir, and engage our own heart for it: While I live, I will praife the lord. 4. There can be little heartineflc in this work, till the foul lay held on God by faith, and embrace the Covenant of grace, and fo finde its own inter-eft in God, and then the foul will praife in earneft, as the Pfalm-. ills example may fhew us; I will fing praifes (q my God> wbiit } have m kjv&.

Verf. 5.

PSALME CXLVI. 357

Verf. 3. Tut not jour truftinTrinceSi not in the fan of man, in whom there is no help.

4. His breathgoeth forth, he returneth to his earth: in that very day hu thoughts perifh.

Heftieweththeway how topraife God really; to wit, by renunciation of all earthly conhdencc, and fixing faith and truft on Gcd alone * for renouncing of all confidence in creatures, he giveth reafons, v. 3,4. and tor trufting in God, he giveth reafons, by praifing of God, unto the end ot the Pialme.

In the forbidding; cf carnal!- confidence; Learn, 1. What a man doth mod truft in, that he efteemeth moil of, and praifeth it in his heart moil; therefore doth the Fialmifl fet us upon God, as on the right object of truft, and divertcth us from, the wrong, that he may teach us to mike God the orfly object of t praife. 2. Becaufe the maine object of our carnal] confidence naturally, is man in power, who feemeth able to do for us, able to promote us to dignity and riches, and to keep us up in fome ftate in the world, therefore muft we throw down this idoll in particular, that we may place our confidence in God the better : Put not your trufi in Princes. 3. To cut oft cirnai confidence in man, that neither mean men may trull in great men, nor great men miy truft in the multitude of mean men, we muft remember, that no man is naturally better then Iris progenitors, but fuchas his fathers were, fu:h is lie, thu is, a flnfufl, weifc, and unconftant creature, Tut notycur truft in Princes, nor in 1 the [oh of mm. 4. The reafon why we mould not, put truft in [ minis, becaufe he can neither help-himfelfc, nor the man thac I truftcrh in him. when there is molt need : In whom there is no \hclp. $. He thit cannot deliver himfelfc from death, is not to 1 be trufted in, becaufe it is uncertain* how loon death mall feize S 1 upon him .• Hit brcitb goctb forth J?c rcturnctb to bis CSrtb. 6. Whatfoever the good will, or puipofe, or promife of 3117 man can give afluranceof, all doth vanish when the man diech ; In that every day bis thoughts fcrijlu

Verf. 5. Hafpj is he that hath the God of Jacob *or hid help: whofe hope is i* the LORD hit God*

A a i In

r,

PSALME CXLVI.

In the exhorting of us to truftin God, he giveth this encouragement onto ir, that he who trufteth in God, may look for heipandhappineffeinhim. Whence larn> /. The only true object of our 'faith, and confidence, is God; as he is revealed by his Word to his Church, to wit, The Cjod of Jacob •, the Cjod of Jfract. 2. Faith in God bringcth true reli-iry with it, and help in time of need : Happy is be that barb the God of Jacob for hk help.. 3. Hope of help and happineiTe, from trull and confi-' dencein God, mud be grounded upon the Lords entering in Covenant'with us> end becoming ours through the Mediator:

tcbofe hope is in the JbordbU God. 1

VcrC 6. Which made heaven and earth, the fea, and M thai therein is; which, k^epeth truth for ever .

7. Which execureth judgement for the npprejfed, which givetbfood to the hungry! the LORD toofeth the prifoners*

8. The LORD openeth the eyes of the blind*> the LORD raifeth them that are bo^eddown : the LORD loveth the righteous.

(p. The LOHT> preferveth the fir angers, he rclie-veth thefttthrlefs and Widow, but the way of.theWriclg ed he tmneth up fide down,

' * 10. The I; O R D fiall reigne for ev*r, even thy God, 0 Sion , unto all generation* 1 Praife ye the LORD.

"Por encouraging of us yet more to believe in God, who offer-eth'hirnfclfetd be reconciled with us, and to be our God in Chrift, he giveth other ten motives; and as every one of them is a point of Gods praife, fo >s it a prop and pillar to fup-port the believers fai;h.. The fivft motive to believe in God, and firftreafon of Gods praife, is, his omrvipotency and alfuffi-ciency, made mani fed by the work of creation, and prefervation of all creatures : Which made the heaven and the earth, the fca y and Ulltbit therein U. i» The fecond motive to believe in God, is < another

another point of Gods praife, to wit, his faithfulncfie in making and keeping; Covenant, and performing hispromifes unto ever-lafting: IVbich l\eepetb truth for ever. J. The third point of Gods praife, and prop of faith, is this, albeit the Lord, for the glory of his Name, and good of his own people, do fufter the godly to be perfecuted and opprefled alio, yet he will plead the caufe and controverfie of the believer , 3nd will deliver the opprefled , and punifh the opp'ciTor: IVbich cxecutcth judgement for the opprefled. 4. Tic fourth point ofGodspraife, and pillar of faith, is this,albeit the Lord lu'ffer the believer to feel the need of what is need full for foul or body, yet he doth not fuffer him to ftarve for want of what isneceflary : Hegivethfoodtothe butipy. ?. The fifth point of Godspraife, is,albeit the belkver may, for his finnes or for trial cf his faith, becaft in prifon, and brought in bondage, yet the Lord will loofe his bonds ;TbeLord ioojctb the prisoners. 6, The fixth point of Gods praife is, albeit the believer may be in darknefle of trouble, and anxiety of minde for a time, and knoweth not what to do,yet the Lord will fhew him deliverance, and give him direction and comfort : The Lord epeveth the eyes of the blind. 7. The feventh reafon of Gods praife, and encouragement to truft in him is, that howfoever the burden of trouble may over-power the believer, and make him walk heavily under discouragement, yet the Lord will renew ftrength and comfort, and delicvery unto him : The Lord raifeth them thtr are bowed down. 8. The cighthreafon to praife Gcd,and eighth encouragement totruftin God, is the believer* who is fled totherightcoufnefieof the Mediator for his junification, and ftudieth to a holy and righteous convention, may be fare he is free from the curfe, approved of God, and (hall finde the fruits of Gods good will to htm : The Lord loveth the righteous. 9. The ninth reafon of Gods paife, and encouaeemmt to truft in him is, from the Lords different manner of dealing, on the one hand with the poor and needy believe/,, who hath none to do for him: and on the other hand, with the proud, and po-Werfull man of this world, who truftetn to cany his b-afineflc by meancsofthe creature, and mifregavdeth the Lord; he preserve: h the one, and deftroycth theo^hci : The Lord prefcrvcth the finngcr, andr licveth the ffbcrlcffc, and the vcidm .• but the rex) of the wicked he tit ncth uffiic dorvi. 1 o. The e< n* h rea -fon of Gods praife, and the laft encouragement of the believer to truft in him, and not to put confidence in P.inces, is this, the A a 4 Lord

Lord is the only S^ve cign King, who liveth for ever, and hath engaged himfelt to h t C m ch, gfnd every bel'ever in every age, thereioreheonlvis w> tytpbe crafted in and wo thy to be prai'.ed ; The Lord flu'! reignv for ever, even thy God, 0 Zion, pnto aUgeneraswiu Praifeye the Lord.

PS A L ME CXLVII.

rpHisI^meis for ftirria* up of the Church to praife and .uankfgi Trig* The exhortacion is threefold. Thefts ft is, «J. *• and fix reafons for it., or motives unto it, are fet down,-? V*:** in4#si*6* The fecond exhortation i$,u 7. and three reafons for it, v. $,9. ia, n, The third is, v. lit and fix JSafons for it, unto the end,

Ver. I. TJ} Raife je the LORD: for it is good to

I fing praifes to our God: for it is plea-fant^ and praife is comely.

In the firft exhortation 5 Learn, 1. There is no part oftGods svorlhip whereunto we are more indifpoied, or need more ftii-rirgup, then to praife God, as the frequent repeated exhortations do import, 2. The fiift motive is this, all the encouragements which can be imagined unto any work, do all concurre here: Xr isprofitable to praife God : for it is good to ftng praifes tooiif God. All Gods praifes ave the believers advantage and . ftoie houfes: zn&Jtufleafanti full of fweet rtfrcihment, as when a man doth view his own rich and well fituated inheritance : and it is honourable to be about the employment of Angels 3 to be Herauld* of the Lords glory :' Praife if'. comely

Z.The LORD doth build up ftrufalem: he gather-eth together the out-cats of JJrael.

The fecond reafoncf G'ds p aife, is for his care over his Chu ch. Whence•learn, 1 The Church is the Lords fpecial handle wbik, he is the builder, upholder and reftorer of any "breach in it: 1 he Lord doth build uf Jerujakm. 2. The member*'

PSALME CXLVII. $6i

bcrs of the true Church arc oft-times fifattcrcd one from another, not only by common judgements bur alfo by perfecut ion and febiimes, that they cannot keep that Tweet communion one with another which is to be wifhed, but God is the only gatherer and unker of them, afte whir oevcr (ore of feathering : He gatberetb together tbeout-cafts ofjfrad.

" Verf. 3. He healeth the broken in heart: and btndeth up their wounds*

The third reafonof Gods praifc is, for his care of theafflicV ed believer* when by trouble outward, or inward, or both, he is wounded in fptrit, broken and brought down, made fiekry and weakened; He healeth the broken in heart, and. bindctb up their wounds, as a tender Chirurgibn, or Phyficiau doih the wound of his Patient.

Verf. 4. He telleth the number of thejtars,: cd-Ieth them all by their names.

The fourth reafon of the exhortation to praife Go J is, his particular knowledge or every thing, which doth tranfeend the capacity of men, and to them is impoflible: He tclletb tbtmim-her of the ftars, and callctb them all by their names. In which lira ilitude he fhewcth alio, that albeit brabam could not comprehend the multitude of the children, either of his faith,, or of his fleuYmore then he could count the number of the liars, yet the Lord knoweth every beleever by name, as he knoweth every ihr^and can call every one by their name.

Verf, 5. Great is our Lord % and of grevt power : his under (landing is infinite.

The fifth reafon of Gods praife is. becnufe in his :ttvfbutes he is incomprehenfiblc, namely in his dominion over all, in power, to do all > andin his wiidom to contrive whatsoever we ftand in

need

3$i PSALME CXLVII.

need of, fathat nothing can be againft us, bucheisabove it 5 nothing can be needful for us, but his wifdom can devife the meanest© bring it to us, and his power doth put his will in execution for our good 5 Great is the Lord, bis power it great , bU under/landing is infinite.

Vcrf. 6. The LORDHftethuptheweek^i he c aft-tth the wicked down to the ground.

The fixth reafon is, from his different dealing with the godly and the wicked: asfor the godly, who in the meeknefie of a fubdued fpirit, do fubmit themfelves under the mighty hand of Godahecomforteththem and relieve th them: but he abafeth the proud who do not ftand in awe of his Majefty : The Lord liftetb up the mee\> lut be eaftetb the wicked down to the ground.

Verf. 7. Singunto the LORD With thank/giving : pngpraife upon the Harp unto our God.

The fecond exhortation unto praife and thankfgiving, in cheerfulnefleandjoy, is exprefled with three realbns. In the exhortation; Learn, The whole works of God, each of them in their own way, call fas it were) for our eftimationand praifing of the workmanfhip which we fee, they call for our anfwer, as ic were, andourdutyrequirethof us, joyfully to make anfwer unto the call, (as the Word importeth ) inpraifmg the Maker, and thanking him for the ufe and benefit which wc have of his works: Sing unto the Lord with tbxn\fgiving } fing praife upon the harp unto our God.

Vcrf. 8. Who covereth the heaven "toith clouds, Voho prepareth raine for the earth: who maketh grajfe to groVtupon the mountaines.

The firft reafon of the fecond exhortation is, from his wife difpofing of theclpuds. Whence learn, I, Sometime the Lord

hidcth the°loryof the open bca/en wich clouds, that it may appear azain, with to much more new, frcmandpleafant luftrc: HecQverctb the Haven voitb clouds t. The change which God maketh upon the face of the Heaven by dark clouds is for 3d-, vantage to tht inhabitantsot cbecarth^ He prepxrctb nine for tbeexrtb. 5. The Lord taketh care of the moil barren parts of the earth, to make rhem, by raining on them, more pleafant ?nd profitable, then ot^erwayes they could be-; Hcnulieibgrifc to grow upon the m.untMves.

Vetf. 9. Beglvethto the foafi bufrod: and to th young ravens which cry.

The fecond reafonof the fecondexhortation to- praife God is t from the Lo;ds care of beafts and fovvles, whereby he giv^ih men to under ft and, that he hath a far greater care of thern; He givetbtotbe beajl bis food, and toxbcyoung ravens which cry.

Verf. 10. He falighteth not intfie ftrength of th* horfe: he taketh not pie a fur e in the hgges of a man.

11. The LORD taketh p/eafure in them that f<e*re him : in tho/e that hope in hU msrcj*

The third rcafon of the fecond exhortation is, becaufe God efteemeth very little of thofe things wherein men naturally do put confidence, whither their own ftrefcgw or the ftrengyh of any creature, fuch ashorfesae, whereof men do make nod ui'e: but he t-ik th picifu-c in th: gpjdiy* w':j cio fear him, and do hope in him. iVbencc'cirn^ 1 Men have, more cbjecls of carnal confidence, then the idol of ihc power of Princes, orot the multitude of followers: for before man want an idol, he will idolize hisown.ftrcn^th, or the ftiength uf an horfe, and put confidence therein, asrhe flight eftimstion wbjed God hath of thefe confidences and'he di.chi1.2eof purring confidence in them doinfinuate. 2, Wherein foewer Mnan delighrcth moft, ana 1 puts moft confidence, that -sthe mans idol, and that which the man doth bring in competition wich God, as the. Lords dif-

7 char-

charging of taking delegation or pleafure in the creature, in-ftead of difcharging toefteemof it, or put truft in it 3 doth import. $. Gadeiteemcth of no man for his riches, honour,com-mand of horfe and foot, nor for his bodily ftrength : He delight-etb not in the jlrengtb of the horje: Ik tx^etb not pleafure in the legs of a man. 4. The only right object of our joy, pleafure and confidence, is Gid himfelf^ as the opposition doth teach us: fuch as both bcleeve inGod 5 and fear to offend him, are the only men acceptable to God, in whom God delighte:h, and taketh pleafure to keep communion with then*; The Lord tx\etb pleafure in them that fear him, in tbofe that hope in bis mercy 5 and byconfequence fuch as do not f:ar him, and who, when they are overtaken in a tranfgreffion, do not run to him for pardon in the hope of mercy 5 He taketh no pleafure in tbem.

Vcrf. 12. PraifetheL0RT*,O?er»fa/em:praife thy God, 0 Zion.

In the third exhortation to praife God 3 expreflfcly dirc&ed to zferufriem and Sio?t y reprefenting the Church in all ages; Learn, 1. Albeit all the earth be obliged to praife God, yet only the Lords people are the right eftimators of his glory, and the fie proclaimers of his praife : Praife the Lord, O tferufalem. 2. Albeit all the creatures are the Lords, yet the Church is the Lords in a more nigh relation , for the Church may claim intcreftin (Sod as her own by Covenant \ Praife thy God, 0 Zion.

Verf. 13. For he hath firengthened the barres of thy gates, he hath bleffeA thy children within thee.

14. He ma\eth peace in thy border: &nd fi/leth thee with the fine ft of the wheat*

The realonsfor the third exhortation are fix, whereof foure are in thefe veties. The firfiis, the Loid hath fenced his Church with walls, gates and barres, that the gates of hell cannot prevail againft it: He bath firengthened the barres of thy gates, to wit, by interpofing of his Omnipotent power for fier prefemtion, 2. The fecond reafon of praise is, that he ma-

keth

keth one generation to follow another in his Church, and the children to be in greater number then their forefathets, by adding daily unto the Church fuchasare to be favedj He bat* blcflcd thy children within thee : not only in regard of muL* tiplication of them, but alio by rrwking them to abound in all knowledge and grace. $. The third reafon of praifc is, that the true members of the Church have peace with God, and a-mong themfelves, in that meafure which is expedient for her good : HcmaketbpcMC in thy borders. 4-The fourth reafon is, becaufe he feedeth his people with food convenient, but eipe-cially in regard of their fpiritual nouriftiment, in giving them the bread of life, whereof thefineftflourc is but a fimilitude 5 He flletb thee with tiefneft of the wheat. (

Verf i> He fendeth forth hid commandment upon earth : his IVordrurmethveryftyiftlj.

\6. Hegivetbfnow like wool : he fcatteretb the hoare froft like afhts.

37. He cafleth forth his ice Ukt morfels : rvho can fland before his cold?

18. He fendtth out his Word and melteth them l he caufetb his veinde to blow^ and the waters floW,

The fifth reafon of the third exhortation unto Gods praife, it taken from Gods powerful ruling of the leaft changes in the clouds, and in the aire, in making foule wearher and fairc, froft and frelh weather, as he pleafeth, by which fimilicude he will have his people to underihnd, that the Lord ruleth with a more fpecial eye all the changes which fall out in the external condition of the Church. Whence learn, 1. The courfe of the creatures, and the changes in them, even unto the leaft meteor or change, which is to be leen in the clouds or in the aire, is particularly dhecled and governed of God, whofc will is a lawto the creature, and whole command hath ready execution: He (endctb forth bi> C mmxndment upon earth, his Word runneth very jwifi\y. 2. The leaft change of weather,by fnow or froft, or ice, is by Gods difpenfation and appointment, much more any change of affaires in his Charch; He ghetb fnow life wool, he futtcretbtbc heire froftlifp afyes, he cajletb forth

his

366 PSALME CXLVII.

tisicc likftoorfcls. 5. The confequenrs and effects of the changes which God doth make., as well in one cafe as in another, could not be endured if God fnould not temper them, and J>rovide feme remedy againft them, as appcarcth in the making of froft : Who can J fond before his cold 1 4. Before any change from froft to faire weather can be made, a new order muft come forth from the Lord, and when thit comcth, aire and water do return to their former courfe, and fo it is in any orher change in the world, efpecially in the affaires oi the Church $ He fend-ttb cut bis IVords and mcltab them : he caufetb the winde to blow> aitdtbe waters flaw.

Verf# 1 p. He fheweth his Word unto Jacob : hk ftatutes and his judgements unto Ifrael.

20* He hxth not dealt fo -with any Nation^ and as for his judgemen ts they have not known them. Praife je the LOUD.

The fixth reafon o\ iht third exhortation to praife God is, from the different dealing of God with his Church, and wirh the reft of the people of the world. JVbence learn, 1. The bene -fit of the Scriptures, 3nd the opening up and application of them, unto the edification of the hearers, is a precious gift of God : and this benefit the Lord hath beftowed on his Church, called by the names oftfacob or Ifrael y Hefbewetb bis Word unto Jacob, bis ftatutes and his judgements unto Ifrael. 1 * The benefit of the Scriptures, and revealing the Word of life unto the Church, maketh Gods people in a better condition, and more excellent then any other incorporation can be in; He bath not dealt fo with any Nation. g.YVhere the Word of God in his Scripture is not opened up, there the Lords dealing with men in juftice and mcrcic, and the way which the Lord keep-eth in ruling of the World, is not undeiftood, but people there do live in deadly darkneflij^/br bis judgments tbey have not \nown them. 4. As the benefits beftowed upon the Church are moft excellent, fo the Church is moft bound to praife God, both for thole mercies, and for. all other his glorious works: Traifcye tht Urd.

PSALM

PSALME CXLVtt. 3*7

PSALME CXLVIII.

IN this Pfalme, the Church is ftirred up to praife God, because of the incomparable excellency of his glory and majefty, appearing firft in the heavens above, v. 1, 2, }, 4; ? 5 &- Secondly^ in the earth and fea beneath, and lower parts under the Heaven,v. 7, 8,9, io. Thirdly, in the governing of men, and of alliorts and ranks of men, but especially in doing for his Church, v. 11, 12,15,14. In all which, as hefheweth,bow the world is full of Gods glory, fo he pointeth ac matwr of . his praife, whkherfoever we turne our eyes.

Vex l.V}Raifeje the LORD, praife ye the LORD 1 from the Heavens : praife him in the heights. 2 % Praife ye him all his Angels: praife ye him all hie hofies.

3; Praife je him Sun and CMoon : praife him alt ye (tars of light.

£ 4. Praife him ye Heaven of heavens : and ye waters that be above the Heavens.

5. Let them praife the Name of the LORT)? for he commanded\ and they Were created.

6. He hath alfo eftablifhed them for ever and eve* •■ he hath made a decree which (hall notpaffe.

In the exhortation to praife God becaufe of his glory fhining in the Heavens 5 Learn, 1. Howfoever the glory of the Lord doth fhine in all his works, ye: there are degrees of the fhining of itj and the chiefeft glory is from celeftial creatures, and from the confederation of what is in heaven : Praife ye the Lord, praife ye the Lord from the Heavens, 2# As God is praifed in heaven, by the blefled fpirhs that are there: fo the true worfhip-

per

368 PSALM E CXLVIII.

' pec (hould joyne with thofe that praife him there; Praife bim in tbehctgbts, or high places. $. Albeit the Angels rave the firft place in the fong of Gods praife, and need not to be ftirred to the work of praife by us, yet it is. a part of our praifing of </od, toconfent unto their fong, and account theiwoik well befto#ed on the Lord their Miker, and to hold the example of them before our eyes, aiming todoC/odswill on earth, as it is done in Heaven: Vrnfe him all ye Angels. 4. The Lord hath at his h ind fwift fervants not. a tew, to go in what mefla°e he pleafeth to direct them, and they are miniftring fpirits for the good of his Chu ch; Praife ye bim, all ye bis Angels, or his meflengers. 5. The Lord is alio well furnirtied with foul-diers, for all his creatures are ready at his command, to fight in Gods quarrel, in defence of his friends, andpurfuk of his iocs: Praife ye bim all bis hoftes. 6. The Lords armies are not idle* but are ftill on their work of praifing, doing the works of peace even in the midft of wane: Traifehim all bis hofies. 7. Befide the common fong of praife, which ail things have as they are creatures,every one of the creatures have their own proper parts in the Song : The Sun in his particular vetue and motion, the Moon in hers, and theftars in theirs, every one by thcmfclves,- and thefealfo joyntlymake up 1 fwcet and harmonious melody, to the praife of God ; Praife ye him Sun and Moon, praife bim all ye ftar: of light. 8.T he variety and difference of place and diftance from the earth, of Sun, Moon and Scarres, fome of them being lower, fome of them higher as the Eelipfes of Sun and Moon, and the diverfe pofitions of ! he ftarres do (hew, are all martersof Gods praife : for the loweft :egion of the aire is here called Heaven ; and the place where the Sun, Moon and Starres are fct, is called Heaven, and the Heaven of Heavens, the third Heaven, where Angels and fpirits of juil men made perfect do remain, each and all of them do fervc fot Gods praife ; Vraife bim ye Heaven of Heavens. 9. The bottles of waters in the clouds, flying above the loweft region of the aire, ready tobedjflolved here and there, as God pleafeth to water the earth, doferveas matter, both of wondering at Gods work, and praifing of him : Praife bimyc waters that be above the Heavens. 10. Praife is due to god, not only for the making of the Heavens, but alfo for the making them of nothing, by the fole word of command, which did produce th:m, by faying; Let them be: let them praife the Name oftbe Lord; for be commanded, and tbej were created. 1 1. The

fpeech

fpcechleffe creatures have their own,way of piaifing God, an i men have their way of praifing: fpeechlefle creatures praifc God in their own kinde, when they hold forth, as in a table, the matter and reafon of prailing God, and. men do praileGod*-when they do obferve. and acknowledge, and proclaim one to another, the reafons of Gods piaife, and thefe exhortation* do im- . port bothj Let them fraife the Name of the Lord. iz. The courfe and appointed motions of the Heavens, are fo fctled during the (landing of the world, as they (halll not faile to go on according to Cjods decree, which as it is a matter of Gods praife, fo alfo or mans comfort, who (hall have the ufe and benefit thereof from generation to generation; He bath alfo eftabli feed them for ever and ever, be baib wide a decree wbub thejffball notpaffc*

Vcrf. 7. Vraife the LORD from the earth t /* dragons *nd *ll deeps.

8. Fire and haile i fnovp and vapour: ft or to) rcinde fulfilling bis Word.

9. Mountaines and aU hilles: fruitful trees and all Cedars.

10. Beafts and all cattel : creeping things , andfij* ingfowle*

In the exhortation, made in the fecond place unto the creature;* under heaven; Learn, 1. As the heavens, fo alfo the earth and the deep fea, arc filled with the matter of GodsJ>rai(e: Praife the I ord from the earthy yc dragons and all deeps. i. The moft terrible creatures ferve to fee forth Gods glory, as well as the moft ufeful and comfortable: 7cdragons and aU deeps, 5.The changes which are made in the clouds, or in theaire,by ftormes 5 or tempefts, or whatfoevcr way, come not by chance, but are all directed forth by God, for forhe intent of his: and in what work he doth employ therfl, they faile not to execute his will: fire andbaile y (now and vapour, ftorniie vindc fulfilling b$ Word: and out of thofe changes p aifes doari.e unto Gdft 4. Th^ivcrfifying of the face of the earth with higher and low> cf pans, with mountains, hilU and Valleyes, and the adorning

Bb o(

of the face thereof with trees,tome taller,fome lower and fmallcr, fomeba ren, fome fruitful, contributeth much to thepraife oS Go<&: Miountaincs and all kills, fruitful trees and all Cedars* 5.Bv(ide all that is faid in the varictyof things living onthe earth, :achofthem do contend with other, which of them (hall foew forth more of Gods wifdom, power and goodneflej Bafts and Mattel, creeping things, and flying fowle: all thofe creatures do offer matter of prai Le unto (?od, that men may take the (ong of their hand, and directly, formally and properly, praifc God for his glorious properties evidenced in them.

Vcr. ii. Kings of t hfearth, and all pevyti : Prin* cesavda'l Judges of the earth.

12. Both young men and maidens: old men and children.

13* Let tbempraife the Name of the LORD, for his tSame alone is excellent : his glory is above the earth and heaveu.

Having gone thorough other creatures, he cometh to man who is the chief, both matter and inftrument of <7ods praife. Whence learn, r. The Lord is glorious in his workmanfhip and government of all the creatures, but mod of all in men, xvhomhecallethto be Factors, Collectors and Chamberlains, as it were 3 to gather unto him the rent of praife and glory* from all other creaures, and then to paypraiies for their own part alio, flings of the earthy and all people, let them praife, Q?c. 1. God is no leveller of mens eftates and outward condition in the world, or alio *er of levelling, but for his own praife ami mens good, he hath ordained diftindion of men in Kings and fubjc<S people, Princes and Judges, and people to ie judged in all parts of the earth ; lyings of the earthy and all people: Prince f, and all fudges of the earth j. As Civil government is appointed of God, fo they who are advanced to this dignity, ars ty& in the obligement unto the duty of fetting fotrh C^ods &aifc, and yet fubjc&s herealfomuft contribute, according to fieir place and ability , lyings of the earth and allp&ple, Princes *$4 M Judges tf, tfc tmb* 4« It fliould cjualifie che-tnindes

of

PSALME CXLVIII. 371

of men who arc in. honour, that their preferment is but oft earth, ami their time no longer then while they are on the earth* and that they arc under a King and Judge, whofe dominion is heavenly :mdeverlafting>therefore dothhe joyne this addition* things of the earth Erinccs and fudges*fthe earth. 5. Asdi-ftinguifliingof men in regard 01 eft ue,fo Jiftinguifhing of fet and age, oftereth much matter ot praife, when particular* arc 1 confidercd; and toi the very diftinftion in feiand age, God is to be pi ailed: Both young men and maidens , old men and children % iet them vraije. 6. Theie is much matter of Gods gtory in the earth, and more in the heavens, but the glory of himfelfe and of his properties, is more then all that either is or can be feen, or found or exprefled in, or by the creature * Let them prdfetbt Nameofthe Lord: for hk Namealone is excellent,bit glory U ir 'beve the earth and the heavens.

Verf. 14* tie alone exalteth the home of hk people, the praife of all his Saints : even of the children of Ifrael , * people negr mto hirm Praife je the LO RV>

Inthelaftplace.,hepaintethat the glory of Gai mantfeftect

( to the Church, fat which all Gods people are bound to praife

I him. Whence learn, 1. The praife of God for what he doth

to,and for his Church, is above all the r<*ft of his praifes, from

1 the reft of his works, as farreas the work of redemption, grace,

and falvationto (inners, is above the works of creation; and

worthy to put the capeftonc upon the reft of the work of Ms tf rai-

fes, as here it is placed. 2. B fide all the ufe and benefit Which

1 the Lords people have of the whole works of Gods hands, he

liftech them up in ftrength, viftory and bJqxj over all tneir <n(f-

mies, and over all other incorporations in the world,'who are

bk: (laves tofinneand.Satan iri compaVifon of them • He 1 Ufa

, txaktcth theborne of bk m pk.r ^ TjWaltiog or rhe fWth

( vidory, and glory of the Chftch,ihnduh V ] v in -he e£lc-

; ingof theMcffiahjor of theKingdcme of rhe Mcffiah •• 0 canted

■bythc exiting of Pdv/i j for Chriftisthe bctne of his teop'e

Bb * rf \i

372 PSALME CXLlX.

In whom their viAory and glory is obtained, and maintained unto them; and therefore the borne of bit peopU is expounded here to be, The praife of allibe Saints. 4. Thofe are the true children of 7/r<te/, who glory in Chrift as their ftrength, their vittory,and glory, and do -ftudy to be in effecl: Saints": for, hk people, and his Saints, are here expounded to be, even the children of 1[rael. $.. Students of holinefife, who glory and rejoyce in Jefus. as their ftrength, vi&ory, righteoufnefle, and falvati-on> and who arewreftlers for thebleflingastrue Ifraelites, arc the Lords people in a more ftraite union with God, then any 0-ther people in the world s A people near unto him : and that in regard of their Covenant with God, their incorporation in Chrift,and the inhabitation of the holy Spirit in them, and the mutual love between God and them. 6. Of all people in the earth, the people of God havemoft reafon to praife their Lord: Jraifejte the Lord.

PSALME CXLIX.

THisPfalmeisa ninefold exhortation of the true members of * the Church, who arc believers and Saints in effect, to praife God for faviug grace beftowed on them, and for fpeciall privi-ledges granted unto them; not only above what is given to the world, but alio above what is given to the vifiblc members of the Church, who are not as yet converted : whereunto fome rea-fons or motives unto the obedience of thefe exhortations ^re-added.

Verf.-I. T^Raifeyethe LORD: fmg mto the JL LO RD a new fong : and hU praife in the Congregation oft be Saints*

From

PSALME CXLIX. Ms

throm the firft two exhortations; Learn, i. The ele&,reg c * nerate, or true believers, have afongof their own, for merci e$ proper to them, befide the pi aife which they have to give for the Lords work roundabout ihem, and therefore they have a proper reafon to praife £o4 for their own particular: Praife )£ the Lord. i. Thcfongotthe redeemed elect and converted, is a new fong which mail never wax old,nor be cut off, an everlaft- : 1 Jngfong: Singuntotbe Lord anew [on g. 3. It is Gods ordinance, that the worfhippers of the Lord lliould have affemblies and meetings, wherein publickly and jointly they may glorifie the.Lordin proclaiming cheerfully his praiie; Singhk praife in the congregation of the Mints,

Verf. z< Let Ifrael rejoyce in him that made him*, let the children ofSion be joyful in their Ki»g-

From the third and fourth exhortation; Leafn, 1. It is the Lords command, thn his people rejoyce in himfelfe, with a joy above ail the joy which they can have in the .creatures, which God hath given to them, that they jnay the more chearfully praife him ; Let Ifracl rejoyce in him., . z. The Church of .the ele&and renewed Saints, is the fpecial workmanihip of Gogs; grace, not only as his creatures, but alio as his new creatures,' created in Chrift Jefus unto good works: Let Ifracl re\oyte 7i bimthat made him. 3..The Church is a peculiar Kingdome by it felfe, whereof God is King in a peculiar way, able togpverrf his people by his Word, dilciplinc and Spirit, and to defend his Church, and all his own ordinances therein, to the comfort of all the true members thereof: Let the children of $ ion fo joy ful in their fcng,

Verf. J* Let them praife hid Name in the dance 5 let themjing praijes unto him With the timbrel and harp.

Bb j From

from the fifth and ftxth exhortation topraife Go d 5 Learn, J. The joy of the believer, is * great and growing joy, arifing from rcjoycinc;, in the former verfe, to exnl-ing, in this verfe, fignified by dinting: Let them praife bis Name in the dance. *. The joy of the godly is acomplcac joy, imploying all, and filling a)l the powers of the fcml,fignifiedbymu(ical inftruments ufed in the paedago^y of the old Church; Let tbtm fing praifcs mto him rcitb the timbrel dnd harp.

Ver. 4. For the LORD taketh pleafure in his pco» fie : he Will beaut*fie the meekjtoith falvation.

Qfthefe exhortations he giveth two reafons. J^Bence learn, j. The Lord loveth believers and repenteth not, bur refleth in his love, md taketh pleafure in his workmanfliip upon them: TbcLordjafictb pleafure in bis people. 1. The conftmcy of the Lords love towards hispeople, is ^he ground of the Churches conftant joy in 1 God. ami perpetual praifing of him: Lcf them jpng praifes to him with the ttrnbrel, and the harp : for the Lord rakish pleafure * n his people. 3 What ("never matter of joy believers or n*ue Saints have,in God, yet rliey are acquainted with as much affliction in the world jas emptieth them of rejoycing ih/tnemfelvesj^umbleth.theTn, and fubdueth their fpiiits, and makcth them to aime arid endeavour without fretting or grudging, to digeft all the Lords difpenfations toward them, and for this caufe the believers, or Saints, are called mccfi. 4. Albeit the affli&tcn wherewith the godly are acquainted, do:h obfeure their blcrTcdneffe, and hide the beauty thereof before the world, yet God in love to them, oft-times wipeth off the black and blemifh of affliction, by giving them gloriousdeliveries, and ac length he giveth to them full falvation; He mil bcautife the raee\"witb fdvation,

. Vcrf. 54 Let the Saints be jojfyl in glory, let fhem fing alouh ttfofl fair bed;,

6. Let the high praifes of God be in their mouth: andatWo-edged fftordbe in their hand.

From the feventh, eighth and ninth exhortations to praifc God; ^earriy i. The godly, cp* true members of the Chir.eh, are Gods favourites, endued with grace, accepted through the beloved : yea,and are good to luch as they live among; for fo much doth the word Stints import, a. The, believer may be joyful! now, for the gloiy hoped for, and may. glory in the pre-mifed blefledneffe, as if it were already poffeued : Let the Stints bejoy full in glory 3. The joy allowed updn the Saints, is a. lafting joy, both day anJ nigh;; a joy which whe:i they are meft retired, may be moft iii joyed/ which being examined in iccier, /hall be found folio'sa joy full of-quiet/eft ; nd peace, as if they were refling in their bedsj a joy which mail continue wi.h them, when their bodies are lying in the grave: for thus much Buy the words beare in divers refpecls $ Let tkemfivg aloud upon their beds. 4. The praifes of God ; (it down in his VVwid, whe an the Lords Name and attributes* the Lords promjfes and glorious works, efpecially done in favour of his Saints,, are iet down^ are the matter of the Saints confidence, glcrhric.n and joy, worthy to be talked of, and openly declared in the audience of others, for the glory of God^and edification of people .- for what; the Lord is, to wit, wife, pbwcrfuil. mercifull,' juit, &:. th.u the Lord is for his people, and for every believer in him 5 and therefore. Let the high prtifes of the Lord be in their mmtb. 5 At the Wore} of God wherein Gods praifes are fct down, is the m \L* terand warrant of the Saints joj and-confidence.in £od> fo alio is it apowerfull weapon to overturn all ndverfafies power wh.u-foever,both bodily and fpirit'ual: Lettbe+rrifci ofCj.odbcawa* edged fword h tbcirJund.

Verf 7, To execute vengeance Hpoq the heathen \ and puntfljnfe nts upon the people.

8. To binde their kt*g*»ith chaine : and their nv~ ties with fetters of iron.

Bb 4 9 To

37$ PSALME CXXIX.

9. To execute upon them the judgement written : This honour have aU bis Satnts. Prai/e je the I 0 RV*

By way of motive unto the obedience of the former exhortations, torejoyce in God,andglorifie him, he fubjoyneth a fpeci- „ all ui'e of the praifes of God, fet down in Scripture in relation to enemies, and persecutors of the Saints; over whom all believers have afpititual victory by faith in Cfod, fo that as the Lords Officers, they may pronounce doom and Sentences condemnatory againft all their enemies, great and fmall, according as the Scripture giveth them warrant. And this doom and fentence of judgement pronounced by the believer, whether in his own nninde, or vocally as occafion oftereth, muft have execution undoubtedly following upon it, according to what is written in the jScripture, and this is no fmall honour allowed upon the Saints. Whence leam, 1. The eleel: and regenerate, believing ftudents of holinefle, have enemies both without the Church vifible, and within it, both heathen and people. 2. God will be avenged upon them all great and fmall; for it is piefuppofed that vengeance muft be executed upon the heathen, and punijhment Upon th( people, g. The believers are in a fort executioners of this vengeauce,becaufe they as doom'fters, do take the fentence from the mouth of God, the juft Judge, and pronounce doom onthem,whereupdn,inthefet time foUowcth execution; the Word of God falling on them in effect, as a fharp (word to cut them afundcr; thus the truth and jufticeofGod, with his other attributes, all being parts of his praife, Are a two-edged [word in their bands >to execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punifo-ment upon the people. 4- Thegreateft Monarchs, Rulers and Judges among mcn,arefubje&ed unto the Word of God, and piuft be bound either to the beliefe and obedience of it, or unto the punifhment and vengeance pronounced againft the tranfgref-fors thereof, fo fall as if they were bound in ftrongeft fetters: for the praife of God in the mouth of his Saint, are, To hindc tfceir kings with chaincs, and their nobles with fetters of iron. $. The Lords children and Saints muft not do wrong to Kings orNobles,orto any man elfc; they muft neither pronounce r^r execute judgement according as they pleafe, but as the written

ten Word of God prefer ibet ; fc'alloweth: for here they are tic<J f To execute nothing upon tbm,Javc the judgment written. 6 m Thefc priviledges are Ipirituall and common to all believers, who according to their places and callings, whether publick or private, may for their own comfort, and for others edification, accordingly apply the Word of C/od to themfelves, and a-gainft their enemies : for, ThU honour bdve att his $ dints, and therefore they ought inalpecial manner to bleflcGod for their priviledges: Traifeje the Lord.

PSALME. CL.

IN this Pfalme t he Spirit of the Lord doth call upon us thirteen times to praifc the Lord; Each exhortation pointeth ioi th God to be the only objeft of pra'Jc. Thefirft and the Jaft exhortation is to ail, to praife (^od abfolutcly^viihout giving any motive more then his very Name innpoitethjwhich indeed isafufEcient reafon .-for feeing the Lord is God,who hath his being of himftlf: and all the creatures have their being of him, and dependance on him, it followeth of neceffity, that he is praife worthy in himfelf, and deferveth to be praifec; by all his creatures. The fecond, third, fourthand fifth exhortations, have reafons and motives annexed unto them, as the matter of his praife, v. 1,2. The fixth, feventh, eighth, nineth, tenth, eleventh, do teach the manner of his praile, under the teimes of the Levitical feryice, v. $, 4,5. and the twelfth pointeth attheperfons or fpeciaJ party, which muft yield the praife unto God, with a reafon infmuated, moving thereunto* v* 6,

Yer, r. T^Raifeje the LORD: Praife God I in his Stnftuarj : Xfraifc him in the firmtmtnt of his foVur.

a. Praife

2* Prdifoh'mfor his mig'^aSs : praife himac-C*rdi*g to his excellent grcatxeftt*

From thefe exhortations which have motives annexed to them* Learn, i.Thc holinefle of God,fwhich is the unftained dearneis and untainted glory of all his attributes^ fuch as are his wifdom, power, juftice, mercy, and all ihz reft of his properties mentioned in Scripture) is the fubjed of the Saints praifing of God in the Church, and of Spirits praifing of him in heaven* for the word in the Original doth bear, Vnifc the I ord in bis holinefle, in his Sanftuaryjn haven bis holy phce. z . The holinefle of God Should be mainly looked unto by all men,who are about to praifc him, that our hearty and mouthes may be rightly framed for fo high a fervice, and we may beware to rake his Name in vain: fov he will be fan&ified of all that draw near unto him, efpecially in the work of praife: Vraife Qod in his holinefle. $. Matter of praife is furnifhed tous, in the wifdom and power of God, which is to be feen in the creatures* and particularly in the frame oftheftoriesofheavenj in the firft whereof, his power lupports the huge weight of waters in the clouds t in the fecond^ the ftars and planets move, and make thtirciicksconftantlyi andin the third, Heavens, Angels, and Spirits of juft men made perfect do praife God % • Vratfe Urn in tbejirmment of his power.^Mn-ter of praifing God is furmfhed by his manifold mighty acts, to be feeh in the powerful fu flaming, ruling and employing of all his creatures, as he feethticteft for his own glory, for the building of his Church, delivering of her from dangers, and o-verthrowing of her enemies; Vraife the Lord for bit rnigbty &8s. j. Matter of praifing God is furni filed in his wonderful great-nefle, and in therayes of excellency, fhining in all his difpenfa-tions, and manner of governing the world, fuftaining fome individual creatures, whieh are ftill the fame, from the Creation, and multiplying others in their kindc, to the aftoniftiment of a ferious beholder s Vraife him accordingtohls excellent great-zcflc.

Vcrf. 3. Vtafrf*kins withthe found f oj c theTrumpet; prSfe km with the Pfa/terj andHarpe* ^.Vraife

4. Praife him with the I imbreland dance : praifi him with ftringed ivftramrnts and Organs.

5. Pratfe him upon the loud Cymbals : pfaife him Upon the high founding Cymbals.

Here are other fix exho. rations, teaching>the manner of prai-fing God untie? the fh?dow of typical m'jfick, appointed in the Ceremonial I w. Whence learn, 1 Albeit the typical C remo* nies cf mufical inftrumtr.ts in <ods publick wo' (hip, belonging to the paeda^ie of I he Church, in her minority before Chrift, be now abe limed with the reft of the Ceremonies: yet the moral ciutu s made wed foith by them, ate itill to beftudicd, becaufe this duty of pr.r ng God, and praifing him with all cur minde, itrengrh and Coulc is moral, whercunto we are per* petually obliged. - z. The variety of mufical inftrumenw, fome of them made oife of in the Campe, as trumpets; fome of them move fuitable to a peaceable condition, as Fisheries and Harps; fome of them founding by blowing windein them; fome of them .foundry by lighter touching of them, as firing* ed inflruments'; fome of them by beating on them more fharp-ly, as 1 abrets. Drums and ( ymbals$fome of them founding, by touching and blowing alfo, as Organs : all of them giving fome certain found, fome more quiet, and fome making more noife : fome of them having a harmonie by themfelves ; fome of them making aConfort withotherinfliurptntSj, or with the motions of the body in dancings, fome of them ferving for one u(e, fome cf them ferving for another, and all o\ them ferving to fet forth Gods glory, and to fhadow forth the duty of wo<fiiipper$, andthepriviledgesof the Saints; The plurality and variety, (I fay:ofthefeinfhuments, were fit to reprefent divers conditions of the fpiritual man, and of the greatnefle of the joy to be found in God, and to.teach what ftirring up ihould be of the affections and powers o: our foul, and one of another, unto Gods wor-ftiip j what harmonic fhould be among worfhippers of God, what melodie each fhould make in himfelf, finding to God with grace in his heart, and to (hew the excellency of gods petite, which no rr.eanes nor inftrument, nor anycxpreffion of the body joyned thereto, could fuffieicntly fet forth: and thus much is figured forth in thefe exhortations to praife Qod with

' Tru3fc

PSALME CL.

Trumpet, FfaUery, Harp; Timbrel, Dance, ftringed infirttmeiitr; and Organs, loud and high founding Cymbals.

Ver. 6. Let every thing that hath breathy praife the LORT) : Praife je the LORD.

In the twelfth exhortation, pointing at the party called upon to praife God; learn, i* Living creatures, which draw breath and give unto, and take from God their life afrcfh every moment in their breathing, do above all vifiblc creatures fpeak moft to the praife ofGods wifdom &power in framing and prefer-ving of them: Let every thing that batb breath,pratje the Lord. *. Of all living creatures, men are moft bound to praife God, s as they in whom God in the Creation, and in their feveral generations, from age to age, did and doth breath the Spirit of life, and of all men thofeare moft bound to praife God, on whom he hath beftowed his holy Spirit: and^ howfoever the Lords works in all men (hall fpeak to his praife, how wicked foever men (hall be, yet only renewed fouls, in whom God hath breathed^his Spirit, as the word breath in the Original may bear, (hall voluntarily aud fincerely praife GoA : Let tvery thing that hath breath, praife the Lord. $. The Spirit of the Lord, when he gave the Pfalmes to the Church of the Jewes, had an eye toward the reft of the world, of whom he was in his appointed time to cxad this Song of praife.* and (o we who are gentiles, brought unto the fociery of the Church, are bound to joyne in the work with them; and when we are joyned, and when all who are to be converted are joyned, yet are wealltoofew, tobcarup this Song of Gods praife jjmd there* fore to (hew this/it is faid , Let every thing that hath breath praife the Lo d. 4. When we have faid all we are able ro fay for Gods praife, we are but to begin again anewj for this are we taught by the renewing of the exhortation, in the clofe of fundry Pfalmes, and here aifo, at the end of all the PfaIms:P^//e ye the Lord. And after us mull all the creatures come in their ownkinde and order, to offer up praifealfo, as we are taught^ Rev. '$. v. 1 2. where after thit elect. Angels and Saints, whofe number was ten thoufand times ten thoufand, and thoufands of thoufands^had fung their Song, faying, With a loud vuqq>Wqx>-

PSALME CL. js*

thy is the Lmb, that was Jltinc, to receive power "{"<&"■ and mfdom, and ftrtngtb, and honour, and glory, and blejftng. Then it fbllovctb, v. i?. And every creature vbicb is m heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and(ucb as are tntbe lea, and all that are in them, beard 1 faying, Blejftng, Honour, Glory and Power, be unto bim that Jittetb upon the Throne, and to the Lamb: for ever and evtf.

FINIS.

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