habitual_a temper_n or_o inclination_n prayer_n therefore_o thus_o perform_v by_o a_o right_o inform_v discrect_a and_o know_a soul_n according_a to_o its_o fervency_n and_o frequency_n have_v a_o most_o natutural_a influence_n to_o preserve_v and_o strengthen_v we_o to_o make_v we_o grow_v in_o all_o goodness_n and_o the_o neglect_n of_o it_o may_v reasonable_o very_o often_o not_o always_o because_o there_o be_v other_o mean_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o person_n decline_v and_o grow_v more_o cold_a and_o indifferent_a in_o all_o their_o duty_n i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o all_o prayer_n be_v a_o necessary_a mean_n of_o man_n growth_n in_o goodness_n not_o be_v we_o present_o to_o expect_v such_o mighty_a difference_n between_o all_o those_o who_o pray_v and_o those_o who_o do_v not_o and_o then_o upon_o any_o disappointment_n by_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o some_o who_o use_v it_o glad_o take_v occasion_n to_o reproach_n or_o despise_v the_o duty_n as_o a_o useless_a but_o troublesome_a thing_n as_o some_o naughty_a man_n be_v apt_a to_o do_v for_o man_n may_v perform_v it_o very_o erroneous_o idle_o and_o careless_o and_o then_o they_o may_v so_o engage_v their_o affection_n with_o that_o concern_v and_o constancy_n to_o other_o object_n in_o the_o world_n after_o they_o have_v do_v their_o prayer_n that_o they_o may_v quite_o forget_v it_o or_o drown_v and_o overcome_v the_o good_a sense_n and_o affection_n they_o have_v therein_o whence_o their_o prayer_n be_v but_o little_a effectual_a from_o all_o these_o cause_n it_o often_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o you_o may_v see_v those_o that_o be_v not_o negligent_a in_o this_o duty_n or_o performance_n but_o frequent_a and_o constant_a and_o long_a too_o so_o bad_a in_o their_o temper_n life_n and_o action_n all_o the_o day_n that_o you_o can_v see_v little_a difference_n between_o they_o and_o those_o who_o do_v not_o pray_v at_o all_o little_o i_o say_v for_o i_o be_o apt_a to_o think_v there_o be_v some_o general_a good_a usual_o by_o the_o mean_a performance_n of_o it_o and_o man_n who_o be_v bad_a will_v otherwise_o general_o be_v much_o worse_o and_o therefore_o though_o man_n seem_v to_o be_v very_o little_a the_o better_a for_o their_o prayer_n i_o will_v not_o have_v they_o to_o leave_v they_o quite_o off_o for_o all_o that_o as_o for_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n excellent_a perfection_n his_o infinite_a power_n wisdom_n universal_a goodness_n his_o bounty_n mercy_n justice_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v another_o ingredient_n in_o a_o prayer_n it_o be_v manifest_a that_o the_o often_o we_o do_v this_o the_o more_o spiritual_a our_o mind_n be_v and_o we_o see_v that_o by_o exercise_n and_o use_v we_o apprehend_v and_o conceive_v these_o spiritual_a thing_n more_o strong_o and_o clear_o and_o our_o affection_n too_o of_o honour_n admiration_n reverence_n fair_a faith_n hope_n joy_n in_o god_n and_o love_n to_o he_o grow_v more_o substantial_a and_o real_a more_o strong_a and_o vigorous_a not_o so_o faint_a and_o languid_a so_o that_o we_o feel_v they_o in_o our_o breast_n as_o real_o and_o as_o powerful_o as_o to_o any_o other_o object_n we_o come_v to_o have_v a_o real_a understanding_n perception_n sense_n and_o affection_n for_o those_o thing_n when_o they_o be_v name_v we_o know_v and_o feel_v they_o in_o our_o mind_n and_o heart_n we_o know_v what_o it_o be_v and_o have_v it_o as_o real_o in_o ourselves_o to_o honour_n fear_v and_o love_n god_n for_o his_o infinite_a perfection_n though_o invisible_a as_o a_o prince_n attend_v with_o all_o his_o ensign_n of_o majesty_n and_o greatness_n and_o who_o we_o know_v to_o be_v as_o wise_a and_o good_a as_o great_a by_o our_o frequent_a converse_n thus_o of_o our_o mind_n with_o god_n he_o become_v ready_o a_o very_a real_a thing_n to_o we_o be_v real_o perceive_v by_o we_o and_o have_v real_a influence_n upon_o our_o affection_n whereas_o before_o we_o thus_o begin_v to_o use_v ourselves_o the_o name_n of_o god_n and_o of_o all_o his_o attribute_n and_o perfection_n be_v a_o insignificant_a thing_n to_o we_o we_o understand_v little_a or_o nothing_o by_o it_o and_o no_o more_o affect_v with_o it_o most_o time_n than_o our_o statue_n of_o wood_n or_o stone_n will_v be_v we_o may_v hear_v much_o talk_n and_o read_v much_o of_o god_n indeed_o or_o his_o excellent_a nature_n and_o attribute_n but_o little_o know_v what_o they_o mean_v we_o apprehend_v better_a and_o more_o be_v much_o more_o affect_v with_o some_o little_a particular_a kindness_n of_o any_o honest_a or_o good_a neighbour_n than_o with_o the_o infinite_a bounâ—y_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o be_v the_o constant_a cause_n and_o author_n to_o we_o and_o to_o all_o thing_n of_o all_o the_o good_a thing_n we_o all_o have_v and_o enjoy_v moreover_o in_o some_o prayer_n as_o secret_a prayer_n where_o we_o may_v have_v time_n to_o apply_v our_o thought_n to_o what_o we_o please_v we_o do_v not_o only_o transient_o which_o if_o frequent_a will_v do_v a_o great_a deal_n but_o also_o fix_o and_o for_o a_o long_a time_n attend_v sometime_o to_o one_o or_o more_o of_o these_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o god_n when_o we_o acknowledge_v they_o whence_o a_o more_o particular_a discovery_n and_o clear_a apprehension_n of_o the_o greatness_n thereof_o insomuch_o that_o the_o soul_n may_v break_v forth_o into_o rapture_n of_o suitable_a passion_n that_o be_v great_a and_o sudden_a violence_n thereof_o as_o for_o example_n if_o a_o man_n contemplate_v the_o power_n of_o god_n shall_v attend_v to_o the_o greatness_n and_o vastness_n excellency_n and_o nobleness_n and_o strangeness_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o thing_n he_o have_v make_v be_v it_o but_o only_o of_o the_o indefinite_o extend_v material_a world_n much_o more_o of_o the_o intellectual_a or_o the_o world_n of_o spirit_n or_o contemplate_v his_o wisdom_n shall_v attend_v to_o this_o that_o all_o thing_n that_o we_o and_o all_o the_o rational_a creature_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n know_v by_o little_a parcel_n and_o successive_o to_o eternity_n itself_o be_v all_o present_a at_o once_o to_o that_o infinite_a understanding_n or_o contemplate_v his_o goodness_n shall_v take_v notice_n of_o the_o freedom_n of_o it_o he_o be_v infinite_o powerful_a thâ—_n immutability_n of_o it_o the_o universality_n anâ—_n that_o all_o the_o great_a evil_n that_o so_o seem_v to_o uâ—_n be_v permit_v or_o appoint_v out_o of_o goodness_n and_o the_o least_o of_o thing_n and_o most_o miâ—uâ—_n dispose_v by_o the_o same_o goodness_n the_o best_a waâ—_n that_o can_v be_v or_o shall_v take_v notice_n of_o somâ—_n one_o or_o more_o excellent_a instance_n thereof_o â—_o his_o free_a and_o ready_a pardon_v upon_o repentance_n the_o fottish_a heedlessness_n and_o sometime_o the_o malicious_a rebellion_n and_o insolent_a contempt_n of_o his_o own_o pitiful_a creature_n against_o he_o i_o say_v a_o man_n contemplate_v these_o perfection_n thus_o and_o attend_v to_o some_o such_o thing_n therein_o will_v more_o strong_o apprehend_v they_o and_o sometime_o be_v affect_v and_o seize_v wiâ—_n the_o great_a violence_n and_o rapture_n of_o sutabâ—_n passion_n such_o as_o we_o often_o meet_v withal_o iâ—_n the_o psalm_n when_o david_n in_o his_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n glance_v at_o and_o discover_v or_o â—â—â—_o more_o steady_o and_o clear_o his_o wisdom_n power_n mercy_n goodness_n righteousness_n in_o some_o instance_n or_o effect_n as_o in_o psalm_n 36._o verse_n 5._o thy_o mercy_n o_o lord_n be_v in_o the_o heaven_n and_o thy_o faithfulness_n reach_v unto_o the_o cloud_n that_o be_v thy_o mercy_n and_o goodness_n particular_o express_v itself_o in_o thy_o faithful_a perform_v thy_o promise_n be_v every_o where_o and_o in_o all_o thy_o creation_n manife_v itself_o thy_o righteousness_n â—_o like_o the_o great_a mountain_n that_o be_v again_o thy_o universal_a goodness_n be_v vast_a as_o to_o extension_n and_o unmoveable_a and_o unchangeable_a as_o to_o duration_n for_o so_o be_v the_o mountain_n as_o far_o as_o we_o observe_v compare_v with_o other_o thing_n thy_o â—udgments_n be_v a_o great_a deep_a the_o infinite_a decree_n and_o resolution_n of_o thy_o will_n few_o of_o they_o know_v and_o all_o do_v with_o a_o incomprehensible_a wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n o_o lord_n thou_o preserve_v man_n and_o beast_n all_o creature_n be_v maintain_v by_o thou_o then_o upon_o this_o contemplation_n and_o reflection_n he_o break_v forth_o in_o the_o next_o verse_n o_o how_o excellent_a and_o precious_a be_v thy_o lovingkindness_n therefore_o the_o child_n of_o man_n shall_v put_v their_o trust_n in_o the_o shadow_n of_o thy_o wing_n now_o the_o real_a clear_a strong_a and_o vigorous_a apprehension_n of_o and_o affection_n towards_o these_o divine_a attribute_n or_o this_o excellent_a nature_n of_o god_n do_v more_o powerful_o dispose_v our_o mind_n to_o imitation_n of_o and_o obedience_n to_o god_n and_o consequent_o to_o
thus_o great_a affection_n and_o passion_n for_o thing_n in_o man_n especial_o who_o study_n and_o be_v suppose_v to_o consider_v and_o examine_v who_o business_n it_o much_o be_v or_o shall_v be_v be_v sign_n to_o the_o generality_n of_o people_n of_o their_o clear_a understanding_n of_o the_o certain_a truth_n and_o excellent_a usefulness_n of_o they_o and_o this_o together_o with_o a_o pretend_a or_o real_a great_a love_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n which_o be_v indeed_o a_o true_o generous_a and_o divine_a temper_n have_v be_v some_o of_o the_o cause_n that_o some_o man_n have_v have_v so_o many_o follower_n and_o admirer_n and_o whatsoever_o have_v be_v say_v by_o they_o have_v be_v believe_v to_o be_v as_o true_a and_o excellent_a as_o the_o word_n of_o god_n itself_o without_o any_o scruple_n when_o therefore_o our_o affection_n be_v great_a and_o strong_a let_v there_o be_v also_o precede_v a_o understanding_n and_o conviction_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o usefulness_n of_o thing_n either_o from_o our_o own_o sight_n and_o perception_n if_o we_o can_v or_o from_o divine_a testimony_n or_o which_o be_v most_o common_a easy_a and_o much_o safe_a from_o the_o most_o general_a testimony_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o best_a man_n let_v not_o our_o great_a passion_n be_v only_o a_o affect_v bustle_v to_o make_v people_n believe_v we_o be_v in_o earnest_n for_o some_o great_a matter_n which_o we_o have_v discover_v 2._o by_o sincerity_n in_o these_o action_n in_o prayer_n i_o mean_v that_o they_o all_o or_o thy_o whole_a prayer_n have_v their_o due_a ultimate_a end_n unmix_v with_o any_o other_o let_v thy_o ultimate_a end_n in_o general_n be_v sincere_o to_o do_v thy_o duty_n that_o which_o thou_o judge_v thou_o ought_v and_o to_o be_v more_o dispose_v to_o be_v universal_o constant_o courageous_o good_a and_o virtuous_a to_o love_v and_o please_v god_n to_o be_v the_o most_o beneficial_a to_o the_o world_n and_o to_o perfect_a and_o make_v happy_a thyself_o by_o possess_v thy_o soul_n with_o the_o grace_n of_o a_o most_o universal_a constant_a and_o generous_a charity_n and_o that_o in_o the_o best_a instance_n viz._n in_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o much_o as_o thou_o can_v and_o in_o all_o other_o when_o they_o may_v be_v fit_a or_o the_o only_a instance_n thou_o can_v then_o perhaps_o be_v charitable_a in_o of_o self-denial_n humility_n spirituality_n by_o the_o mortification_n of_o all_o inordinacy_n and_o immoderacy_n of_o thy_o appetite_n of_o all_o lust_n by_o be_v sober_a advise_v discreet_a and_o wise_a and_o by_o the_o use_n of_o all_o other_o good_a thing_n we_o be_v capable_a of_o receive_v possess_v enjoy_v from_o god_n let_v these_o thing_n i_o say_v be_v pure_o and_o sincere_o thy_o ultimate_n end_n if_o thou_o acknowledge_v god_n infinite_a perfection_n let_v it_o be_v to_o produce_v in_o thou_o some_o way_n or_o other_o as_o it_o will_v obedience_n and_o imitation_n and_o consequent_o universal_a righteousness_n holiness_n and_o all_o the_o instance_n thereof_o now_o mention_v if_o thou_o confess_v thy_o sin_n let_v it_o be_v to_o excite_v and_o stir_v up_o whet_v and_o sharpen_v thy_o hatred_n against_o all_o sin_n and_o when_o thou_o profess_v thy_o obediential_a resolution_n let_v it_o be_v to_o confirm_v strengthen_v and_o invigorate_v thy_o love_n and_o like_n resolution_n and_o bent_n of_o soul_n to_o all_o obedience_n and_o to_o thy_o duty_n universal_o when_o thou_o thank_a god_n ingenuous_o for_o his_o great_a kindness_n and_o love_n for_o his_o benefit_n to_o thou_o let_v it_o be_v sincere_o to_o engage_v thou_o to_o love_v he_o again_o consequent_o to_o imitate_v obey_v please_v he_o and_o consequent_o to_o be_v universal_o holy_a and_o righteous_a when_o thou_o propounde_v or_o recite_v thy_o case_n or_o condition_n or_o that_o of_o any_o other_o for_o who_o thou_o pray_v let_v it_o be_v sincere_o to_o cause_v thyself_o some_o way_n to_o be_v better_o by_o cause_v thou_o more_o to_o attend_v to_o thy_o dependence_n upon_o god_n and_o to_o be_v more_o sensible_a thereof_o and_o consequent_o to_o behave_v thyself_o so_o as_o to_o please_v he_o and_o last_o when_o thou_o desire_v or_o petitione_v any_o thing_n let_v thy_o ultimate_a end_n be_v still_o the_o same_o quicken_v thy_o acknowledgement_n and_o sense_n of_o thy_o entire_a dependence_n upon_o god_n by_o which_o thou_o may_v be_v engage_v to_o love_v and_o please_v he_o which_o can_v be_v without_o holiness_n universal_a most_o express_o petition_v god_n for_o his_o grace_n and_o assistance_n to_o make_v thou_o the_o most_o perfect_o holy_a and_o righteous_a thou_o be_v capable_a of_o in_o such_o manner_n and_o instance_n as_o be_v aforesaid_a trust_v in_o god_n he_o will_v grant_v those_o thy_o petition_n than_o which_o none_o be_v more_o acceptable_a to_o he_o and_o use_v the_o utmost_a of_o thy_o endeavour_n in_o compliance_n with_o his_o supervenient_a help_n final_o when_o thou_o beseeche_v god_n for_o all_o or_o any_o other_o good_a thing_n let_v it_o be_v that_o thou_o may_v be_v dispose_v and_o enable_v thereby_o to_o serve_v he_o and_o the_o world_n to_o live_v profitable_o and_o comfortable_o here_o and_o at_o last_o to_o obtain_v a_o immortal_a and_o everlasting_a reward_n these_o thing_n i_o say_v again_o be_v to_o be_v pure_o sincere_o and_o unmix_o the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o thy_o pray_v in_o general_a and_o of_o all_o the_o part_n thereof_o let_v no_o other_o thing_n come_v in_o the_o place_n hereof_o or_o mix_v and_o blend_v therewith_o let_v not_o for_o example_n mere_a dull_a custom_n be_v the_o end_n that_o be_v mere_a please_a a_o man_n self_n with_o so_o do_v and_o especial_o the_o external_a or_o bodily_a part_n because_o a_o man_n have_v use_v so_o to_o do_v he_o will_v so_o do_v not_o the_o mere_a action_n or_o usage_n so_o much_o as_o the_o good_a effect_n of_o it_o be_v to_o please_v such_o as_o the_o name_n of_o our_o duty_n include_v and_o suppose_v we_o must_v not_o pray_v as_o age_a man_n in_o part_n use_v old_a fashion_n or_o some_o other_o little_a action_n as_o walk_v eat_a drink_v at_o certain_a time_n viz._n principal_o because_o they_o have_v be_v use_v so_o to_o do_v it_o be_v easy_a it_o be_v delightful_a mere_o to_o do_v so_o and_o it_o will_v be_v painful_a and_o troublesome_a to_o they_o to_o abstain_v or_o to_o live_v after_o any_o other_o manner_n let_v not_o again_o the_o procure_v a_o great_a opinion_n of_o we_o for_o sanctity_n for_o consciensciousness_n honesty_n spirituality_n for_o great_a part_n or_o gift_n for_o readiness_n copiousness_n variety_n of_o invention_n memory_n judgement_n both_o in_o thing_n and_o word_n sense_n and_o phrase_n for_o the_o usefulness_n and_o general_a goodness_n also_o of_o both_o that_o we_o can_v pray_v much_o or_o be_v well_o furnish_v with_o matter_n that_o we_o can_v pray_v long_o and_o often_o or_o be_v very_o frequent_a in_o prayer_n that_o we_o be_v good_a churchman_n that_o we_o never_o miss_v prayer_n that_o we_o can_v pray_v with_o a_o acceptable_a and_o please_a delivery_n or_o voice_n let_v not_o this_o vain_a glory_n of_o pray_v long_o and_o frequent_o in_o every_o place_n in_o synagogue_n corner_n of_o street_n reprove_v by_o christ_n in_o the_o hypocrite_n of_o his_o age_n matt._n 6._o i_o say_v let_v not_o this_o be_v the_o end_n again_o more_o universal_o let_v not_o the_o gratification_n of_o any_o lust_n as_o sensuality_n luxury_n ease_n and_o sloth_n malice_n illwill_a pride_n affectation_n of_o superiority_n equality_n or_o liberty_n revenge_n envy_n ambition_n vainglory_n covetousness_n not_o the_o procurement_n of_o some_o advantage_n for_o employment_n preferment_n rule_n gain_n trade_n or_o the_o like_a in_o the_o least_o peep_n in_o and_o mix_v with_o the_o noble_a end_n before_o mention_v let_v not_o last_o even_o the_o pleasure_n satisfaction_n and_o delight_n we_o may_v find_v in_o all_o the_o operation_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o prayer_n such_o as_o clear_a perception_n and_o understanding_n of_o god_n his_o attribute_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a future_a sublime_a and_o of_o great_a concernment_n especial_o our_o be_v affect_v with_o they_o not_o the_o pleasure_n of_o our_o both_o great_a and_o good_a passion_n as_o admiration_n and_o honour_n love_n joy_n faith_n and_o truth_n etc._n etc._n though_o right_o and_o due_o excite_v according_a to_o the_o true_a goodness_n of_o thing_n understand_v usual_o signify_v by_o the_o name_n of_o transport_v ravishment_n ecstasy_n i_o say_v let_v not_o even_o this_o be_v our_o ultimate_a end_n but_o rather_o one_o exceed_v little_a and_o very_o inconsiderable_a part_n thereof_o the_o other_o of_o be_v bend_v and_o resolve_v to_o please_v god_n by_o do_v all_o good_a be_v infinite_o more_o valuable_a as_o tend_v to_o a_o infinite_o great_a good_a notwithstanding_o let_v we_o maintain_v and_o cherish_v this_o
to_o think_v they_o oblige_v the_o divinity_n by_o the_o honour_n they_o do_v it_o by_o their_o prayer_n to_o grant_v they_o what_o they_o desire_v the_o jew_n at_o this_o day_n think_v and_o say_v that_o god_n can_v withstand_v their_o prayer_n it_o have_v be_v say_v i_o doubt_v but_o too_o often_o vain_o and_o presumptuous_o that_o god_n can_v not_o hold_v out_o against_o a_o pray_a people_n but_o too_o well_o know_v have_v be_v the_o confidence_n of_o many_o private_a person_n that_o their_o prayer_n shall_v be_v answer_v and_o as_o well_o know_v have_v be_v their_o disappointment_n many_o prayer_n also_o may_v be_v stuff_v with_o thing_n very_o trivial_a and_o slight_a comparative_o while_o the_o great_a thing_n be_v neglect_v small_a sin_n and_o other_o sin_n may_v be_v confess_v eager_o but_o great_a and_o their_o own_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o or_o but_o slight_o petition_n may_v be_v make_v for_o worldly_a thing_n importunate_o but_o for_o spiritual_a negligent_o or_o cold_o we_o may_v pray_v for_o gift_n or_o excellent_a quality_n of_o understanding_n more_o than_o for_o grace_n or_o holy_a disposition_n of_o will_n for_o pardon_n more_o than_o for_o goodness_n for_o privilege_n more_o than_o for_o duty_n for_o justification_n more_o than_o for_o sanctification_n for_o peace_n and_o assurance_n before_o and_o more_o than_o for_o regeneration_n renewal_n of_o our_o nature_n mortification_n of_o our_o lust_n love_n to_o god_n for_o his_o excellency_n charity_n humility_n spirituality_n in_o prayer_n also_o may_v be_v very_o much_o insincerity_n the_o thing_n desire_v may_v be_v selfish_a to_o gratify_v immoderate_a lust_n of_o revenge_n pride_n superiority_n envy_n covetousness_n sensuality_n luxury_n or_o the_o like_a some_o prayer_n i_o wish_v i_o can_v not_o say_v most_o may_v be_v very_o cold_a formal_a mere_a word_n be_v not_o i_o say_v very_o well_o satisfy_v so_o thou_o have_v but_o pray_v though_o it_o may_v be_v very_o bad_o endeavour_v not_o only_o to_o pray_v but_o pray_v well_o and_o as_o thou_o ought_v and_o therefore_o make_v use_n of_o such_o mean_n and_o direction_n as_o have_v be_v prescribe_v i_o add_v here_o too_o as_o a_o useful_a caution_n by_o the_o by_o be_v not_o content_a and_o satisfy_v with_o thy_o have_v pray_v well_o if_o thy_o prayer_n have_v be_v such_o as_o have_v proceed_v from_o good_a quality_n in_o thou_o and_o tend_v to_o make_v thou_o more_o so_o too_o and_o thou_o feel_v thyself_o very_o much_o delight_v with_o the_o performance_n thereof_o and_o much_o dispose_v thereby_o to_o the_o universal_a practice_n of_o thy_o duty_n think_v not_o that_o thou_o have_v be_v good_a enough_o at_o the_o time_n of_o thy_o prayer_n and_o may_v be_v negligent_a every_o where_n else_o in_o all_o thy_o succeed_a action_n pursue_v thy_o good_a disposition_n begin_v by_o thy_o prayer_n at_o any_o time_n by_o watchfulness_n and_o reflection_n all_o the_o follow_a day_n by_o frequent_a check_n when_o thou_o do_v ill_a and_o encouragement_n and_o joy_n when_o thou_o do_v well_o by_o frequent_a ejaculation_n and_o resolution_n and_o so_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o five_o general_n head_n viz._n direction_n concern_v prayer_n chap._n v._n sect_n i._o vi_o the_o last_o general_n head_n be_v the_o excuse_n or_o pretence_n man_n usual_o make_v why_o they_o do_v not_o pray_v especial_o in_o private_a or_o secret_n in_o which_o i_o shall_v be_v but_o short_a they_o be_v most_o common_o but_o these_o three_o 1._o that_o they_o need_v not_o pray_v 2._o they_o have_v not_o ability_n to_o pray_v 3._o they_o have_v not_o time_n the_o first_o pretence_n some_o man_n have_v for_o not_o pray_v be_v that_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o it_o it_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n and_o that_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o foolish_a thing_n the_o reason_n of_o which_o their_o opinion_n be_v either_o because_o they_o think_v there_o be_v no_o god_n at_o all_o nor_o any_o be_v superior_a to_o themselves_o in_o power_n wisdom_n and_o goodness_n who_o hear_v they_o when_o they_o do_v pray_v or_o else_o because_o all_o future_a thing_n be_v will_v and_o determine_v by_o god_n already_o and_o that_o he_o be_v unchangeable_a as_o to_o the_o first_o of_o these_o reason_n if_o it_o be_v true_a it_o will_v render_v all_o prayer_n and_o all_o thing_n contain_v in_o they_o ridiculous_a indeed_o but_o i_o shall_v return_v no_o other_o answer_n to_o these_o monster_n of_o insolency_n and_o dulness_n but_o that_o though_o they_o hereby_o call_v all_o mankind_n except_o one_o or_o two_o of_o themselves_o if_o there_o be_v any_o sot_n and_o fool_n in_o spend_v so_o considerable_a a_o part_n of_o their_o time_n yet_o the_o world_n will_v have_v better_a demonstration_n and_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v no_o less_o against_o so_o universal_a a_o testimony_n than_o ever_o they_o have_v bring_v to_o prove_v they_o â—o_o before_o they_o will_v believe_v it_o or_o before_o these_o objector_n themselves_o ought_v to_o believe_v it_o moreover_o there_o have_v be_v in_o this_o last_o age_n such_o and_o so_o many_o proof_n of_o god_n and_o spirit_n existence_n both_o high_o probable_a and_o some_o absolute_o necessary_a as_o i_o have_v upon_o the_o long_a consideration_n judge_v that_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o obstinate_a affection_n of_o uncontroulableness_n and_o licentiousness_n in_o those_o who_o do_v or_o may_v know_v they_o or_o a_o pitiable_a dulness_n which_o must_v make_v they_o capable_a of_o a_o contrary_a persuasion_n as_o to_o the_o second_o reason_n of_o god_n predetermination_n of_o all_o thing_n it_o must_v mean_v more_o particular_o one_o of_o these_o two_o thing_n first_o that_o it_o be_v needless_a to_o set_v ourselves_o to_o pray_v mean_v all_o ingredient_n of_o a_o prayer_n because_o it_o be_v predetermine_v by_o god_n whether_o we_o shall_v or_o no._n or_o else_o second_o that_o it_o be_v needless_a to_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o any_o good_a thing_n mean_v by_o prayer_n petition_v only_o because_o he_o have_v predetermine_v whether_o we_o shall_v have_v the_o thing_n we_o pray_v for_o or_o no._n to_o the_o first_o of_o these_o it_o be_v to_o be_v answer_v that_o there_o be_v the_o same_o reason_n against_o all_o will_n endeavour_n action_n whatsoever_o to_o obtain_v any_o good_a thing_n we_o want_v for_o example_n against_o the_o chew_a and_o swallow_v our_o food_n that_o we_o may_v be_v nourish_v for_o the_o argument_n run_v thus_o god_n have_v determine_v before_o we_o pray_v whether_o we_o shall_v pray_v or_o not_o if_o the_o first_o than_o we_o shall_v do_v it_o without_o our_o will_n or_o endeavour_v if_o the_o second_o than_o we_o shall_v not_o do_v it_o with_o they_o in_o the_o same_o manner_n we_o may_v argue_v god_n have_v determine_v before_o we_o chew_v and_o swallow_v our_o food_n to_o nourish_v we_o whether_o we_o shall_v do_v those_o action_n or_o no._n if_o the_o first_o we_o shall_v do_v they_o without_o our_o will_n and_o endeavour_v if_o the_o second_o we_o shall_v not_o though_o we_o do_v will_v and_o endeavour_v to_o do_v they_o but_o we_o do_v not_o see_v man_n in_o this_o and_o the_o like_a case_n abstain_v from_o their_o will_n and_o endeavour_v for_o such_o a_o reason_n though_o it_o be_v suggest_v to_o they_o but_o they_o always_o use_v both_o where_o they_o believe_v they_o to_o be_v the_o cause_n or_o condition_n of_o their_o obtain_v any_o good_a thing_n they_o desire_v and_o indeed_o they_o have_v the_o great_a reason_n so_o to_o do_v which_o be_v a_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v answer_v for_o brief_o and_o not_o to_o spend_v much_o time_n here_o in_o these_o subtlety_n since_o man_n must_v of_o necessity_n will_v and_o endeavour_v after_o something_o or_o not_o whether_o it_o be_v or_o be_v not_o predetermine_v they_o shall_v will_n and_o endeavour_v or_o not_o there_o be_v no_o middle_n sure_o it_o be_v most_o manifest_a that_o they_o be_v to_o take_v that_o part_n of_o which_o there_o appear_v to_o they_o the_o best_a effect_n and_o consequence_n but_o it_o be_v as_o manifest_v that_o there_o do_v appear_v better_a effect_n and_o consequence_n of_o willing_a and_o endeavour_v after_o that_o which_o be_v the_o cause_n or_o caution_n of_o any_o good_a thing_n than_o of_o omit_v so_o to_o do_v or_o lie_a idle_a because_o god_n have_v predetermine_v we_o know_v not_o which_o of_o the_o two_o viz._n either_o we_o shall_v will_n and_o endeavour_n or_o not_o but_o this_o be_v not_o the_o ordinary_a sense_n of_o this_o objection_n here_o though_o it_o be_v in_o a_o controversy_n which_o have_v fill_v many_o volume_n to_o the_o second_o therefore_o viz._n that_o it_o be_v needless_a to_o petition_n god_n for_o any_o thing_n because_o he_o have_v predetermine_v whether_o we_o shall_v have_v it_o or_o no_o many_o thing_n may_v be_v reply_v as_o 1._o let_v
hand_n of_o god_n ask_v or_o unasked_a except_o we_o be_v in_o some_o degree_n good_a example_n of_o this_o be_v very_o frequent_a in_o the_o psalm_n psalm_n 7._o verse_n 1._o david_n pray_v to_o god_n to_o save_v he_o from_o his_o enemy_n save_v i_o from_o all_o they_o that_o persecute_v i_o and_o deliver_v i_o and_o ver._n 6._o arise_v o_o lord_n in_o thy_o anger_n lift_v up_o thyself_o because_o of_o the_o rage_n of_o my_o enemy_n but_o verse_n 3_o 4._o he_o reflect_v upon_o his_o past_a innocency_n and_o particular_o in_o something_o his_o enemy_n or_o his_o conscience_n may_v suggest_v whether_o he_o be_v not_o guilty_a and_o upon_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o charity_n that_o he_o have_v not_o only_o do_v good_a to_o his_o friend_n but_o even_o to_o his_o causeless_a enemy_n and_o sure_o he_o judge_v himself_o to_o be_v still_o the_o same_o and_o that_o he_o be_v not_o change_v for_o the_o worse_a which_o without_o doubt_n give_v he_o humble_a boldness_n and_o confidence_n of_o success_n and_o consequent_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o earnestness_n and_o strength_n of_o his_o desire_n that_o god_n will_v be_v please_v at_o that_o time_n to_o do_v that_o favour_n for_o he_o o_o lord_n my_o god_n if_o i_o have_v do_v this_o that_o be_v it_o may_v be_v something_o his_o enemy_n may_v accuse_v he_o of_o or_o his_o conscience_n bid_v he_o to_o inquire_v into_o or_o more_o particular_o if_o he_o have_v do_v that_o to_o they_o which_o they_o do_v to_o he_o viz._n persecute_v they_o and_o endeavour_v and_o contrive_v to_o do_v they_o mischief_n causeless_o if_o i_o have_v reward_v evil_a to_o he_o that_o be_v at_o peace_n with_o i_o viz._n his_o friend_n or_o who_o have_v do_v he_o no_o hurt_n yea_o i_o have_v deliver_v he_o who_o without_o cause_n be_v my_o enemy_n then_o let_v the_o enemy_n persecute_v my_o soul_n yea_o let_v he_o tread_v my_o life_n down_o in_o the_o earth_n and_o lay_v my_o honour_n in_o the_o dust_n if_o david_n have_v be_v conscious_a to_o himself_o of_o the_o like_a injustice_n or_o of_o any_o other_o sin_n approve_v that_o he_o have_v be_v be_v and_o will_v be_v so_o for_o the_o future_a he_o will_v not_o have_v have_v the_o confidence_n to_o have_v desire_v this_o of_o god_n and_o so_o in_o many_o place_n where_o he_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o some_o favour_n he_o profess_v himself_o god_n servant_n psalm_n 86._o verse_n 4._o rejoice_v the_o soul_n of_o thy_o servant_n verse_n 11._o he_o pray_v to_o god_n to_o teach_v he_o his_o way_n and_o he_o will_v walk_v in_o his_o truth_n that_o which_o be_v true_o god_n way_n and_o be_v true_o right_a and_o to_o be_v do_v and_o verse_n 12._o he_o profess_v he_o will_v praise_v god_n and_o glorify_v his_o name_n which_o be_v sign_n and_o branch_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o then_o verse_n 16._o he_o pray_v o_o turn_v unto_o thy_o servant_n and_o save_v the_o son_n of_o thy_o handmaid_n psal_n 119._o verse_n 94._o i_o be_o thou_o save_v i_o for_o i_o have_v seek_v thy_o precept_n he_o have_v endeavour_v and_o desire_v to_o obey_v god_n and_o he_o have_v give_v himself_o up_o to_o he_o i_o be_o thou_o or_o god_n have_v especial_o design_v he_o to_o serve_v he_o in_o the_o kingdom_n therefore_o he_o be_v bold_a to_o pray_v god_n will_v save_v he_o or_o deliver_v he_o from_o the_o evil_n he_o be_v in_o danger_n of_o and_o psalm_n 143._o verse_n 12._o of_o thy_o mercy_n cut_v off_o my_o enemy_n and_o destroy_v all_o they_o that_o afflict_v my_o soul_n suppose_v they_o so_o to_o continue_v as_o long_o as_o they_o have_v life_n and_o be_v able_a and_o not_o to_o repent_v for_o i_o be_o thy_o servant_n and_o this_o be_v the_o best_a sort_n of_o vow_n when_o a_o man_n not_o only_o upon_o condition_n that_o god_n will_v give_v he_o any_o certain_a thing_n he_o crave_v express_o will_n and_o oblige_v himself_o to_o do_v this_o or_o that_o particular_a good_a work_n or_o abstain_v from_o this_o or_o that_o fault_n or_o bad_a action_n but_o beforehand_o he_o give_v up_o himself_o entire_o to_o god_n and_o vow_n and_o promise_v he_o will_v be_v his_o servant_n universal_o and_o more_o particular_o it_o may_v be_v too_o where_o he_o think_v he_o may_v do_v the_o most_o good_a or_o where_o he_o have_v be_v the_o most_o faulty_a and_o as_o for_o his_o desire_n and_o request_n he_o refer_v they_o to_o the_o divine_a righteousness_n and_o wisdom_n he_o make_v no_o bargain_n with_o god_n only_o those_o duty_n which_o can_v only_o be_v do_v upon_o condition_n of_o god_n bestow_v his_o request_v favour_n may_v be_v promise_v and_o profess_v by_o he_o conditional_o as_o for_o example_n to_o thank_v and_o praise_n god_n particular_o for_o any_o favour_n confer_v which_o can_v be_v if_o it_o be_v never_o receive_v sect_n vi_o iv_o a_o four_o ingredient_n in_o prayer_n be_v thanksgiving_n that_o be_v a_o actual_a love_a of_o god_n for_o his_o benefit_n already_o receive_v and_o this_o contribute_v to_o the_o strengthen_n and_o invigorate_n of_o our_o prayer_n and_o desire_n too_o it_o be_v as_o the_o rest_n before_o a_o necessary_a sign_n according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o its_o vigour_n and_o frequency_n of_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o goodness_n in_o we_o for_o if_o we_o love_v god_n for_o his_o benefit_n we_o shall_v natural_o desire_v to_o please_v he_o and_o to_o seek_v to_o know_v what_o do_v so_o and_o that_o we_o can_v be_v ignorant_a be_v by_o do_v his_o will_n or_o by_o keep_v his_o command_n with_o care_n to_o be_v universal_o holy_a good_a and_o righteous_a in_o the_o grand_a instance_n of_o universal_a benevolence_n and_o consequent_o self-denial_n and_o all_o the_o branch_n thereof_o i_o say_v according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o its_o vigour_n and_o frequency_n for_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n to_o see_v one_o who_o love_v god_n for_o his_o benefit_n but_o seldom_o now_o and_o then_o only_o for_o one_o fit_a in_o a_o prayer_n never_o think_v of_o it_o afterward_o or_o in_o mean_a and_o low_a degree_n one_o who_o love_v god_n less_o and_o less_o often_o than_o many_o other_o object_n i_o say_v it_o be_v no_o wonder_n to_o see_v such_o a_o person_n to_o sin_n and_o offend_v as_o often_o as_o these_o object_n be_v his_o temptation_n but_o if_o we_o love_v god_n vigorous_o and_o more_o than_o any_o other_o object_n and_o so_o frequent_o that_o it_o become_v a_o habitual_a temper_n of_o our_o soul_n it_o will_v most_o certain_o produce_v in_o we_o the_o effect_n of_o universal_a holiness_n and_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o we_o find_v it_o in_o intenseness_n and_o constancy_n in_o ourselves_o so_o far_o be_v it_o a_o sign_n thereof_o and_o give_v we_o reason_n consequent_o to_o think_v ourselves_o acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o that_o it_o may_v be_v the_o more_o reasonable_a and_o just_a for_o he_o to_o bestow_v the_o good_a thing_n we_o ask_v i_o do_v not_o think_v that_o love_n to_o god_n for_o his_o benefit_n confer_v upon_o one_o self_n or_o thankfulness_n be_v a_o principal_a virtue_n but_o a_o excellent_a instrumental_a one_o it_o be_v it_o be_v not_o a_o instance_n of_o formal_a goodness_n or_o virtue_n but_o it_o be_v a_o very_a frequent_a mean_n thereof_o and_o therefore_o a_o sign_n but_o to_o love_n god_n for_o himself_o as_o a_o part_n or_o rather_o infinite_o the_o most_o considerable_a thing_n in_o the_o whole_a universe_n and_o therefore_o above_o all_o thing_n and_o with_o reference_n to_o the_o whole_a this_o be_v indeed_o the_o noble_a instance_n of_o our_o holiness_n the_o free_a and_o generous_a acknowledgement_n and_o resentment_n of_o god_n our_o benefactor_n of_o the_o divine_a favour_n already_o receive_v be_v one_o good_a use_n effect_v or_o improvement_n of_o they_o which_o have_v a_o further_a one_o still_o viz._n it_o cause_v we_o to_o please_v god_n by_o keep_v his_o command_n and_o become_v universal_o holy_a and_o good_a as_o i_o have_v before_o instance_a and_o be_v a_o very_a probable_a sign_n of_o this_o iâ—_n give_v we_o a_o just_a faith_n and_o confidence_n and_o heighten_v our_o prayer_n and_o desire_n from_o god_n ingratitude_n that_o be_v a_o neglect_n or_o contempt_n of_o god_n favour_n already_o bestow_v we_o may_v be_v sure_o can_v give_v we_o no_o encouragement_n but_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o a_o dull_a sensual_a selfish_a or_o wicked_a mind_n and_o so_o at_o least_o of_o defect_n oâ—_n goodness_n again_o actual_a love_n to_o god_n for_o favour_n receive_v impress_v upon_o our_o mind_n the_o memory_n of_o his_o past_a goodness_n and_o consequent_o give_v we_o reason_n to_o argue_v he_o may_v be_v good_a to_o we_o again_o suppose_v we_o see_v no_o circumstance_n to_o alter_v the_o case_n in_o those_o thing_n
imitation_n long_o and_o fierce_a have_v be_v the_o contention_n and_o strife_n among_o we_o concern_v this_o external_a worship_n but_o too_o certain_a a_o sign_n and_o cause_n of_o the_o decay_n and_o neglect_v of_o the_o internal_a worship_n before_o mention_v for_o those_o who_o mind_n be_v serious_o and_o real_o take_v up_o with_o so_o noble_a and_o high_a a_o employment_n as_o the_o contemplation_n admiration_n of_o god_n infinite_a perfection_n a_o sincere_a and_o ardent_a love_n obediential_a resolution_n trust_v joy_n acquiescence_n in_o god_n be_v very_o little_a solicitous_a concern_v any_o the_o external_a sign_n thereof_o or_o seldom_o take_v any_o notice_n of_o they_o but_o when_o and_o so_o far_o as_o they_o observe_v they_o to_o be_v any_o hindrance_n or_o help_n in_o themselves_o or_o other_o to_o the_o internal_a thing_n signify_v which_o ofttimes_o be_v very_o little_a and_o uncertain_a nevertheless_o no_o man_n have_v more_o and_o more_o proper_a natural_a sign_n of_o inward_a worship_n or_o devotion_n than_o they_o no_o mens_fw-la carriages_n and_o demeanour_n more_o show_v it_o than_o they_o and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n i_o speak_v of_o fierce_a contention_n about_o not_o the_o use_n of_o external_a sign_n so_o it_o be_v a_o cause_n of_o the_o neglect_v of_o the_o internal_a worship_n of_o god_n for_o it_o call_v all_o man_n thought_n and_o affection_n from_o it_o so_o that_o they_o hardly_o ever_o mind_n it_o neither_o in_o public_a nor_o private_a you_o shall_v rare_o hear_v those_o person_n who_o be_v of_o this_o temper_n spend_v one_o minute_n or_o two_o in_o any_o serious_a and_o affectionate_a discourse_n concern_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n or_o his_o action_n his_o attribute_n and_o infinite_a perfection_n and_o his_o display_v of_o they_o in_o hiâ—_n creation_n preservation_n providence_n or_o government_n of_o the_o universe_n and_o consequent_o what_o opinion_n and_o affection_n become_v hiâ—_n creature_n that_o be_v capable_a towards_o he_o 〈◊〉_d concern_v the_o reasonableness_n of_o any_o virtue_n or_o grace_n he_o have_v command_v from_o its_o excellent_a use_n in_o the_o world_n in_o these_o thing_n they_o be_v very_o ignorant_a and_o cold_a and_o rare_o i_o say_v shall_v you_o hear_v from_o they_o these_o thing_n but_o for_o a_o minute_n or_o two_o but_o dispute_n of_o many_o hour_n with_o fiery_a eye_n and_o foam_a mouth_n concern_v times_n and_o place_n and_o garb_n and_o posture_n the_o sign_n and_o external_a circumstance_n of_o internal_a worship_n of_o god_n moreover_o this_o habituate_v man_n mind_n to_o little_a and_o sensible_a thing_n and_o make_v they_o inept_v for_o those_o true_o great_a and_o spiritual_a unfit_a to_o apprehend_v and_o be_v affect_v with_o they_o whence_o they_o be_v fill_v with_o superstition_n that_o be_v a_o great_a zeal_n and_o esteem_n for_o and_o consequent_o a_o opinion_n of_o the_o acceptableness_n of_o those_o small_a thing_n to_o god_n and_o little_a or_o none_o for_o those_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o be_v vast_o great_a this_o be_v the_o temper_n general_o of_o the_o vulgar_a even_o in_o all_o other_o matter_n through_o ignorance_n and_o sensuality_n whereby_o they_o be_v affect_v with_o only_a personal_a sensible_a and_o persent_a good_a thing_n the_o controversy_n be_v not_o whether_o there_o ought_v to_o be_v any_o external_a sign_n and_o other_o not_o necessary_a or_o changeable_a circumstance_n in_o public_a divine_a worship_n for_o all_o among_o all_o sect_n acknowledge_v and_o practise_v it_o and_o can_v but_o do_v so_o but_o whether_o there_o ought_v to_o be_v any_o institute_v and_o command_v by_o any_o particular_a church_n which_o be_v not_o command_v in_o scripture_n by_o christ_n or_o his_o apostle_n the_o affirmative_a of_o which_o question_n be_v undoubted_o true_a and_o it_o be_v somewhat_o the_o more_o strange_a it_o shall_v be_v doubt_v or_o deny_v by_o any_o society_n of_o christian_n if_o some_o may_v be_v so_o call_v when_o they_o themselves_o find_v it_o plain_o necessary_a to_o practise_v according_o for_o i_o do_v not_o think_v there_o be_v any_o one_o of_o the_o wild_a of_o they_o who_o do_v not_o by_o consent_n and_o agreement_n contrary_a to_o which_o they_o will_v not_o permit_v any_o one_o of_o their_o society_n to_o act_v use_v external_a sign_n of_o inward_a worship_n and_o other_o not_o absolute_o necessary_a circumstance_n which_o never_o be_v command_v or_o use_v by_o christ_n or_o his_o apostle_n which_o usage_n and_o practice_n though_o it_o have_v not_o some_o circumstance_n of_o a_o law_n or_o command_n yet_o it_o have_v the_o power_n and_o force_n thereof_o and_o as_o much_o restrain_v liberty_n for_o example_n some_o of_o those_o person_n who_o be_v of_o that_o persuasion_n and_o therefore_o say_v a_o church_n have_v not_o power_n to_o command_v he_o who_o officiate_n in_o the_o church_n to_o wear_v a_o white_a garment_n yet_o they_o will_v not_o permit_v he_o to_o wear_v any_o other_o than_o a_o black_a as_o a_o sign_n of_o gravity_n though_o itineran_n linschot_n itineran_n it_o be_v say_v in_o japan_n they_o use_v white_a for_o a_o sign_n of_o mourn_v and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v think_v of_o gravity_n too_o &_o black_a for_o a_o sign_n of_o joy_n or_o at_o least_o any_o other_o light_n or_o gaudy_a colour_n they_o will_v not_o permit_v he_o the_o garb_n of_o a_o tradesman_n or_o a_o soldier_n none_o of_o which_o thing_n be_v particular_o any_o where_n forbid_v or_o command_v against_o by_o christ_n or_o his_o apostle_n nay_o it_o be_v more_o likely_a that_o in_o their_o preach_v they_o use_v the_o habit_n of_o man_n of_o their_o profession_n or_o quality_n in_o their_o country_n so_o most_o of_o those_o person_n for_o some_o i_o have_v hear_v affirm_v the_o contrary_a who_o will_v not_o for_o the_o same_o reason_n permit_v any_o church_n to_o enjoin_v kneel_v at_o the_o lord_n supper_n yet_o they_o themselves_o will_v not_o permit_v any_o man_n to_o take_v it_o in_o our_o table_n or_o meal_n posture_n and_o therefore_o with_o his_o hat_n on_o which_o be_v not_o command_v against_o by_o christ_n or_o his_o apostle_n nay_o it_o be_v most_o likely_a it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n with_o his_o disciple_n for_o it_o be_v not_o much_o to_o be_v doubt_v but_o that_o they_o take_v it_o in_o the_o manner_n they_o use_v to_o discumb_v to_o eat_v viz._n with_o their_o head_n cover_v according_a to_o the_o then_o custom_n of_o that_o age_n and_o country_n the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o the_o time_n viz._n evening_n and_o of_o many_o other_o usage_n the_o jewish_a church_n have_v always_o this_o liberty_n and_o privilege_n of_o institute_v and_o command_a thing_n in_o the_o external_a worship_n of_o god_n so_o they_o be_v not_o contrary_a to_o any_o thing_n that_o god_n have_v command_v and_o according_o it_o be_v make_v use_n of_o in_o abundance_n of_o instance_n as_o have_v be_v most_o evident_o prove_v by_o some_o late_a learned_a man_n to_o which_o many_o more_o may_v be_v add_v if_o this_o be_v a_o place_n to_o discourse_v the_o thing_n so_o large_o the_o whole_a synagogical_a worship_n be_v one_o comprehensive_a instance_n thereof_o or_o else_o the_o record_n we_o have_v of_o moses_n law_n and_o the_o succeed_a age_n of_o the_o jew_n affair_n be_v very_o deficient_a there_o be_v many_o part_n thereof_o which_o have_v positive_a testimony_n of_o their_o institution_n by_o the_o governor_n of_o the_o jewish_a church_n as_o the_o read_n of_o their_o haphtaroth_n or_o their_o section_n of_o the_o prophet_n in_o their_o synagogue_n every_o sabbath_n day_n which_o be_v command_v upon_o the_o occasion_n of_o antiochus_n epiphanes_n prohibit_v they_o the_o read_n of_o their_o law_n and_o be_v continue_v ever_o after_o with_o their_o read_v the_o section_n of_o their_o law_n when_o they_o have_v liberty_n to_o do_v that_o and_o yet_o the_o jew_n be_v a_o small_a people_n and_o it_o be_v infinite_o more_o easy_a to_o determine_v every_o circumstance_n in_o the_o external_a worship_n of_o god_n for_o they_o than_o for_o all_o the_o christian_a world_n which_o be_v to_o comprehend_v all_o mankind_n of_o infinite_a variety_n of_o natural_a temper_n custom_n and_o constitution_n for_o which_o reason_n to_o give_v one_o example_n only_o what_o be_v among_o we_o a_o universal_a sign_n natural_a or_o by_o custom_n which_o mostwhat_a have_v foundation_n in_o some_o natural_a temper_n of_o honour_n and_o reverence_n or_o the_o absence_n of_o which_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o irreverence_n and_o want_v of_o honour_n to_o god_n in_o his_o public_a worship_n this_o be_v noâ—_n so_o among_o other_o nation_n but_o it_o may_v be_v oâ—_n contempt_n or_o some_o ill_a quality_n for_o man_n tâ—_n uncover_v their_o head_n among_o we_o be_v a_o sign_n oâ—_n honour_n and_o not_o to_o uncover_v it_o be_v a_o sign_n oâ—_n irreverence_n or_o
one_o of_o the_o best_a way_n to_o obtain_v a_o end_n by_o any_o certain_a mean_n to_o have_v it_o perpetual_o and_o only_o in_o our_o mind_n and_o intention_n when_o we_o be_v use_v that_o mean_n like_a as_o it_o be_v a_o most_o probable_a mean_n to_o hit_v the_o mark_n to_o have_v it_o steady_o in_o our_o eye_n or_o to_o come_v to_o a_o certain_a place_n to_o have_v it_o as_o frequent_o in_o our_o thought_n as_o needs_o whither_o we_o be_v go_v and_o in_o truth_n the_o neglect_n of_o this_o seem_v to_o be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o frequent_a cause_n why_o in_o many_o particular_a church_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n they_o have_v so_o many_o constitution_n and_o rite_n either_o perfect_o useless_a to_o this_o great_a end_n of_o the_o inward_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o universal_a holiness_n of_o soul_n or_o so_o little_a and_o remote_o subservient_fw-fr thereto_o that_o either_o they_o have_v seldom_o attain_v it_o or_o it_o be_v not_o worth_a the_o trouble_n of_o the_o governor_n and_o govern_v to_o constitute_v and_o observe_v they_o or_o final_o they_o be_v contrary_a thereto_o and_o more_o obstruction_n and_o hindrance_n thereof_o other_o mean_a and_o more_o puerile_a or_o vulgar_a end_n and_o design_n as_o beauty_n ornament_n and_o pomp_n or_o sometime_o wicked_a and_o selfish_a one_o as_o honour_n power_n and_o wealth_n have_v interpose_v and_o quite_o intercept_v the_o end_n above_o mention_v not_o but_o that_o i_o think_v they_o all_o of_o they_o may_v honest_o and_o prudent_o be_v adhibit_v in_o some_o degree_n in_o order_n to_o that_o end_n but_o we_o be_v to_o scorn_v that_o such_o mean_a thing_n shall_v terminate_v our_o view_n and_o be_v the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o our_o constitution_n second_o a_o second_o mean_n to_o know_v what_o external_a worship_n constitute_v tend_v to_o the_o promote_a of_o the_o internal_a worship_n of_o god_n be_v the_o most_o exact_a knowledge_n of_o humane_a nature_n we_o can_v get_v to_o know_v what_o external_a sign_n or_o other_o circumstance_n of_o the_o internal_a action_n or_o operation_n of_o our_o mind_n do_v most_o natural_o cause_v they_o in_o we_o which_o be_v exceed_o various_a according_a to_o the_o variety_n of_o temper_n usage_n and_o constitution_n of_o single_a person_n or_o whole_a nation_n some_o there_o be_v which_o may_v be_v general_a and_o well_o near_o universal_a and_o here_o we_o must_v use_v principal_o our_o own_o reason_n experience_n and_o observation_n both_o in_o ourselves_o and_o other_o we_o may_v also_o make_v use_n of_o other_o observation_n and_o experience_n and_o consequent_o their_o usage_n and_o constitution_n as_o it_o follow_v in_o the_o next_o particular_a for_o what_o may_v be_v further_o observe_v in_o this_o i_o refer_v the_o reader_n to_o what_o he_o will_v find_v in_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o this_o treatise_n viz._n concern_v the_o due_a qualification_n of_o the_o external_a sign_n both_o of_o sense_n and_o operation_n of_o soul_n in_o prayer_n three_o a_o three_o means_n be_v all_o testimony_n both_o divine_a and_o humane_a whether_o we_o have_v it_o from_o express_a word_n and_o injunction_n as_o in_o scripture_n command_v or_o canon_n of_o council_n etc._n etc._n or_o from_o example_n and_o practice_n which_o testimony_n be_v so_o much_o more_o valuable_a as_o the_o person_n be_v more_o sincere_a in_o the_o end_n before_o mention_v and_o more_o prudent_a and_o discreet_a to_o know_v and_o observe_v the_o mean_n which_o will_v best_o attain_v it_o moreover_o it_o be_v careful_o to_o be_v observe_v whether_o their_o testimony_n be_v concern_v the_o same_o thing_n to_o be_v constitute_v i._n e._n the_o same_o or_o rather_o the_o like_a in_o all_o circumstance_n which_o may_v alter_v the_o case_n whether_o that_o the_o circumstance_n be_v not_o so_o different_a as_o that_o that_o external_a worship_n which_o be_v then_o and_o there_o for_o edification_n or_o promote_a of_o the_o internal_a worship_n of_o god_n or_o universal_o of_o more_o good_a consequence_n than_o bad_a be_v not_o so_o now_o among_o those_o who_o be_v to_o make_v use_n of_o their_o testimony_n particular_a respect_n must_v be_v have_v to_o the_o extent_n of_o the_o constitution_n whether_o it_o be_v to_o all_o christian_n of_o all_o place_n and_o time_n or_o direct_v only_o to_o a_o particular_a church_n and_o for_o a_o certain_a time_n and_o here_o in_o the_o first_o place_n come_v in_o divine_a testimony_n any_o constitution_n to_o all_o christian_n make_v by_o god_n himself_o which_o be_v undoubted_o to_o be_v perpetual_o observe_v as_o tend_v to_o the_o true_a end_n thereof_o before_o mention_v these_o if_o there_o be_v any_o beside_o the_o general_a one_o of_o decency_n and_o order_n be_v to_o be_v seek_v for_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n next_o may_v be_v take_v notice_n of_o all_o the_o particular_n of_o the_o external_a worship_n of_o the_o jew_n appoint_v by_o god_n himself_o also_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n where_o all_o circumstance_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v before_o they_o be_v imitate_v and_o whether_o there_o be_v not_o some_o peculiar_a one_o which_o make_v they_o necessary_a then_o or_o very_a subservient_fw-fr to_o the_o internal_a worship_n of_o god_n or_o other_o good_a effect_n the_o which_o now_o be_v want_v may_v render_v they_o useless_a or_o of_o more_o bad_a than_o good_a effect_n it_o be_v certain_a most_o of_o their_o constitution_n in_o their_o external_a worship_n be_v of_o this_o kind_n as_o all_o their_o sacrifice_n their_o distinction_n of_o meat_n their_o legal_a uncleanness_n their_o festival_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v as_o certain_a that_o some_o of_o they_o be_v such_o as_o may_v be_v well_o imitate_v by_o most_o christian_a church_n now_o in_o order_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a ends._n as_o a_o settle_a maintenance_n for_o the_o officer_n of_o religious_a worship_n and_o perhaps_o their_o age_n when_o they_o shall_v be_v admit_v to_o minister_v in_o those_o holy_a office_n and_o their_o number_n and_o abundance_n more_o a_o great_a many_o of_o they_o have_v be_v by_o way_n of_o imitation_n introduce_v into_o very_o ancient_a christian_a church_n some_o soon_o some_o late_a as_o much_o of_o the_o situation_n division_n form_n of_o our_o church_n and_o churchyard_n in_o imitation_n of_o their_o temple_n the_o habit_n of_o those_o who_o officiate_n in_o religious_a assembly_n cap_n hood_n surplice_n cassock_n girdle_n seem_v to_o have_v be_v in_o imitation_n of_o the_o priest_n bonnet_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o ephod_n or_o half-coat_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o robe_n as_o our_o translation_n call_v it_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o long_a coat_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o belt_n or_o girdle_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o canon_n for_o all_o person_n communicate_v three_o time_n in_o the_o year_n at_o least_o seem_v likewise_o a_o imitation_n of_o the_o jewish_a law_n that_o all_o male_n shall_v appear_v three_o time_n in_o the_o year_n before_o the_o lord_n in_o jerusalem_n there_o be_v other_o yet_o which_o may_v be_v name_v of_o somewhat_o more_o consequence_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v have_v some_o rite_n possible_o with_o no_o bad_a intent_n at_o first_o from_o the_o heathen_n among_o who_o the_o christian_n for_o many_o hundred_o of_o year_n live_v promiscuous_o as_o their_o sprinkle_v thing_n and_o person_n with_o their_o holy_a water_n villa_n domos_fw-la templa_fw-la totasque_fw-la urbes_fw-la aspergine_fw-la circumlatae_fw-la aquae_fw-la expiant_fw-la passim_fw-la say_v tertullian_n baptis_fw-la tertull._n de_fw-fr baptis_fw-la of_o the_o heathen_n last_o may_v be_v observe_v the_o constitution_n of_o external_a worship_n in_o all_o particular_a christian_a church_n from_o the_o begin_n to_o thâ—_n time_n and_o more_o especial_o the_o most_o ancient_a anâ—_n therefore_o in_o those_o which_o be_v found_v anâ—_n govern_v by_o the_o apostle_n where_o again_o 〈◊〉_d circumstance_n be_v as_o be_v before_o say_v to_o be_v consider_v with_o reason_n and_o prudence_n before_o uâ—proceed_v to_o imitation_n we_o be_v not_o to_o thiâ—â—_n present_o that_o every_o constitution_n or_o practiâ—â—_n we_o meet_v with_o in_o every_o urban_n or_o provincial_a church_n nay_o in_o many_o or_o most_o be_v to_o be_v imit_v in_o we_o many_o may_v there_o be_v very_o laudable_a and_o which_o then_o may_v the_o most_o obtain_v the_o end_n so_o often_o mention_v which_o 〈◊〉_d our_o circumstance_n may_v not_o but_o be_v useless_a or_o may_v hinder_v or_o in_o general_n may_v be_v of_o veâ—â—_n much_o more_o ill_a consequence_n than_o good_a 〈◊〉_d particular_o their_o quantity_n or_o quality_n 〈◊〉_d fast_v plunge_v in_o baptism_n etc._n etc._n in_o whicâ—_n thing_n there_o be_v great_a difference_n to_o be_v madâ—_n mere_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o the_o climate_n live_v in_o the_o indiscreet_a and_o promiscuous_a retention_n and_o
bow_v down_o and_o oppress_v this_o happy_a soul_n with_o upright_a and_o cheerly_o countenance_n with_o solid_a joy_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o his_o thought_n he_o steady_o and_o generous_o walk_v through_o all_o the_o variety_n of_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o be_v the_o divine_a wisdom_n may_v dispose_v he_o into_o who_o will_v not_o be_v a_o good_a man_n that_o he_o may_v thus_o pray_v and_o who_o will_v not_o pray_v that_o he_o may_v enjoy_v so_o great_a a_o happiness_n who_o will_v be_v so_o weak_a and_o foolish_a as_o for_o the_o indulgence_n and_o gratification_n of_o some_o pitiful_a mean_a and_o base_a appetite_n for_o the_o present_a enjoyment_n of_o some_o vile_a and_o unreasonable_a lust_n or_o sin_n forego_v and_o quit_v all_o his_o faith_n confidence_n and_o hope_n in_o god_n and_o the_o consequent_a delight_n acquiescence_n case_n peace_n and_o joy_n of_o soul_n upon_o all_o occasion_n be_v ashamed_a ever_o to_o think_v of_o god_n much_o more_o to_o address_v himself_o to_o he_o or_o ask_v any_o thing_n at_o his_o hand_n though_o he_o shall_v be_v in_o never_o so_o great_a distress_n who_o will_v lose_v the_o benefit_n and_o comfort_n of_o so_o good_a a_o friend_n for_o what_o can_v never_o make_v the_o least_o part_n of_o recompense_n yes_o let_v atheist_n and_o worldling_n live_v without_o any_o mind_v of_o or_o address_v themselves_o to_o god_n if_o they_o please_v the_o good_a man_n know_v too_o well_o the_o sweetness_n the_o profit_n and_o the_o pleasure_n thereof_o to_o do_v likewise_o david_n be_v a_o true_o excellent_a example_n of_o this_o usefulness_n and_o benefit_n of_o prayer_n it_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v his_o most_o usual_a cordial_n which_o he_o often_o take_v to_o support_v his_o faint_a and_o tire_a soul_n to_o quell_v and_o compose_v his_o vexation_n fear_n disturbance_n to_o alleviate_v and_o remove_v his_o grief_n and_o sadness_n we_o will_v give_v a_o instance_n or_o two_o psalm_n 42._o first_o he_o mention_n his_o present_a sad_a and_o miserable_a condition_n in_o many_o respect_n as_o his_o be_v banish_v out_o of_o his_o country_n it_o be_v likely_a by_o saul_n and_o principal_o from_o the_o public_a worship_n of_o his_o god_n for_o which_o he_o pant_v and_o thirst_v oh_o when_o shall_v i_o come_v and_o appear_v before_o god_n verse_n 1_o 2_o 4_o 6._o then_o his_o enemy_n contempt_n and_o insult_a over_o he_o and_o especial_o their_o not_o believe_v that_o he_o be_v so_o great_a a_o favourite_n of_o god_n but_o rather_o that_o god_n have_v reject_v he_o or_o mind_v he_o not_o verse_n 3_o 10._o but_o to_o comfort_v and_o cheer_v himself_o he_o pray_v to_o god_n and_o be_v very_o confident_a god_n will_v hear_v he_o as_o he_o have_v reason_n and_o cheerlily_n chide_v himself_o ver._n 8_o 9_o 11._o yet_o the_o lord_n will_v command_v his_o love_a kindness_n in_o the_o day_n time_n and_o in_o the_o night_n his_o song_n shall_v be_v with_o i_o and_o my_o prayer_n to_o the_o god_n of_o my_o life_n that_o be_v yet_o i_o will_v pray_v to_o my_o god_n and_o i_o trust_v and_o know_v he_o will_v give_v i_o cause_n to_o rejoice_v and_o praise_v he_o by_o his_o hear_n of_o i_o at_o all_o time_n i_o will_v say_v unto_o god_n my_o rock_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o why_o go_v i_o mourning_n because_o of_o the_o oppression_n of_o the_o enemy_n and_o verse_n 11._o why_o be_v thou_o cast_v down_o o_o my_o soul_n why_o be_v thou_o so_o disquiet_v within_o i_o hope_v thou_o in_o god_n for_o i_o shall_v yet_o praise_v he_o who_o be_v the_o health_n of_o my_o countenance_n and_o my_o god_n again_o the_o very_a next_o psalm_n viz._n 43._o he_o pray_v very_o passionate_o to_o god_n for_o deliverance_n from_o his_o enemy_n who_o be_v unmerciful_a deceitful_a unjust_a and_o that_o god_n will_v bring_v he_o back_o again_o to_o enjoy_v his_o public_a worship_n in_o his_o temple_n from_o which_o he_o seem_v now_o banish_v oh_o send_v out_o say_v he_o thy_o light_n and_o thy_o truth_n that_o be_v perhaps_o thy_o enlighten_v or_o rejoice_v truth_n in_o perform_v of_o thy_o promise_n thou_o have_v make_v to_o i_o let_v they_o lead_v i_o let_v they_o bring_v i_o unto_o thy_o holy_a hill_n zion_n the_o place_n where_o the_o temple_n be_v build_v and_o to_o thy_o tabernacle_n that_o be_v the_o temple_n build_v instead_o of_o the_o tabernacle_n where_o god_n especial_o manifest_v himself_o or_o where_o be_v very_o special_a effect_n of_o his_o power_n and_o presence_n then_o he_o vow_v unto_o god_n that_o with_o exceed_a joy_n and_o thankfulness_n he_o will_v make_v use_n of_o and_o improve_v that_o favour_n verse_n 4._o then_o will_v i_o go_v unto_o the_o altar_n of_o god_n unto_o god_n my_o exceed_a joy_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o verse_n the_o last_o he_o be_v full_a of_o good_a hope_n and_o firm_a confidence_n that_o god_n who_o be_v the_o health_n of_o his_o countenance_n that_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o all_o his_o joy_n and_o of_o his_o content_n which_o use_v to_o be_v show_v by_o one_o healthful_a aspect_n and_o countenance_n and_o who_o be_v his_o god_n will_v hear_v his_o petition_n at_o last_o viz._n that_o he_o shall_v praise_v he_o therefore_o and_o that_o public_o in_o the_o temple_n again_o in_o psalm_n 55._o he_o describe_v the_o miserable_a plight_n that_o he_o be_v in_o because_o of_o the_o constant_a machination_n and_o plot_n of_o his_o enemy_n deceitful_a and_o bloody_a man_n as_o it_o be_v v._o 23._o nay_o of_o those_o who_o have_v be_v his_o friend_n and_o confident_n who_o have_v forsake_v he_o in_o his_o disgrace_n and_o adversity_n as_o it_o be_v usual_a and_o contemn_v he_o verse_n 12._o his_o enemy_n contrive_v even_o to_o take_v away_o his_o life_n they_o oppress_v he_o with_o accusation_n and_o reproach_n and_o wrathful_o hate_v he_o whence_o he_o be_v full_a of_o complaint_n and_o mourn_a in_o so_o much_o that_o there_o be_v likelihood_n of_o his_o death_n thereby_o which_o though_o another_o sense_n may_v be_v too_o he_o express_v in_o verse_n 4_o 5_o by_o his_o heart_n be_v pain_v and_o the_o terror_n of_o death_n fall_v upon_o he_o and_o fearfulness_n and_o tremble_a come_n upon_o he_o and_o horror_n overwhelm_v he_o but_o then_o the_o course_n he_o take_v be_v to_o pray_v to_o god_n with_o hope_n and_o trust_v in_o he_o by_o these_o he_o reseve_v himself_o from_o this_o sadness_n and_o grief_n of_o soul_n and_o ease_v comfort_n and_o satisfy_v it_o verse_n 16._o as_o for_o i_o i_o will_v call_v upon_o god_n and_o the_o lord_n shall_v save_v i_o verse_n 17._o evening_n and_o morning_n and_o at_o noonday_n that_o be_v very_o frequent_o he_o will_v pray_v and_o cry_v aloud_o and_o god_n shall_v hear_v his_o voice_n and_o verse_n 22._o cast_v thy_o burden_n that_o be_v what_o grieve_v thou_o upon_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o shall_v sustain_v thou_o he_o shall_v never_o suffer_v the_o righteous_a to_o be_v move_v that_o be_v himself_o to_o be_v frustrate_v of_o his_o hope_n sect_n ix_o a_o three_o way_n how_o prayer_n be_v for_o our_o iii_o iii_o ease_n comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o mind_n be_v by_o reflection_n upon_o our_o have_v perform_v our_o most_o just_a and_o reasonable_a duty_n to_o god_n and_o upon_o some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a good_a quality_n in_o ourselves_o that_o may_v upon_o this_o occasion_n appear_v as_o in_o general_a upon_o our_o ability_n for_o and_o our_o good_a will_n to_o this_o duty_n or_o performance_n that_o we_o be_v able_a and_o dispose_v for_o such_o excellent_a thing_n as_o be_v in_o prayer_n more_o particular_o that_o our_o mind_n be_v so_o able_a to_o converse_v with_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o future_a yea_o eternal_a and_o to_o be_v affect_v with_o they_o such_o as_o god_n his_o nature_n and_o action_n our_o own_o soul_n their_o action_n and_o inclination_n the_o state_n after_o death_n the_o affair_n of_o the_o life_n hereafter_o that_o we_o can_v take_v notice_n of_o god_n perfection_n acknowledge_v they_o real_o honour_v he_o love_n and_o resolve_v to_o obey_v he_o to_o put_v our_o trust_n in_o he_o and_o depend_v upon_o he_o that_o we_o can_v take_v notice_n of_o and_o grieve_v sincere_o and_o hearty_o for_o the_o irregularity_n of_o our_o action_n and_o our_o bad_a and_o sinful_a temper_n and_o inclination_n be_v please_v with_o desire_n pray_v for_o virtue_n and_o grace_n that_o we_o can_v think_v of_o attend_z to_z and_o be_v frequent_o and_o much_o affect_v with_o thing_n of_o future_a reward_n and_o misery_n heaven_n and_o hell_n that_o we_o be_v not_o sensual_a dull_a worldly_a earthlyminded_n person_n who_o can_v mind_v nothing_o but_o sensible_a present_a and_o worldly_a matter_n for_o this_o short_a life_n all_o man_n be_v natural_o incline_v to_o believe_v and_o confuse_o see_v
error_n and_o mistake_v superstition_n dulness_n insincerity_n formality_n coldness_n that_o god_n will_v help_v his_o invention_n attention_n judgement_n memory_n both_o in_o thing_n and_o word_n proper_a for_o prayer_n that_o he_o may_v more_o particular_o know_v god_n attribute_n his_o own_o sin_n god_n mercy_n his_o own_o want_n etc._n etc._n when_o we_o pray_v for_o these_o due_a qualification_n of_o our_o prayer_n let_v we_o be_v sure_a that_o we_o pray_v for_o the_o best_a of_o they_o first_o and_o most_o for_o example_n more_o for_o the_o truth_n justice_n importance_n as_o also_o for_o sincerity_n fervency_n and_o prudent_a seasonableness_n of_o what_o we_o conceive_v in_o our_o prayer_n than_o for_o multitude_n or_o variety_n celerity_n or_o volubility_n more_o also_o for_o sense_n and_o affection_n than_o for_o the_o sign_n of_o they_o speech_n and_o gesture_n or_o more_o for_o good_a understanding_n and_o affection_n than_o for_o utterance_n and_o eloquence_n to_o have_v the_o aforesaid_a habitual_a qualification_n for_o prayer_n be_v that_o which_o be_v call_v in_o some_o mens_fw-la and_o in_o scripture-phrase_n the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n of_o which_o therefore_o we_o see_v he_o have_v the_o best_a part_n who_o have_v the_o best_a qualification_n and_o he_o the_o most_o who_o have_v the_o most_o he_o who_o pray_v true_a just_a and_o important_a solid_o useful_a thing_n with_o sincerity_n just_a and_o due_a fervency_n frequency_n and_o seasonableness_n though_o they_o be_v but_o very_o few_o and_o short_a have_v more_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n than_o he_o that_o have_v in_o his_o prayer_n great_a variety_n indeed_o of_o matter_n and_o word_n but_o it_o be_v what_o be_v false_a or_o uncertain_a unjust_a small_a trivial_a or_o with_o insincerity_n vainglory_n formality_n or_o he_o who_o heat_n and_o fervency_n be_v only_o bodily_a passion_n raise_v up_o by_o motion_n and_o agitation_n of_o his_o body_n lung_n organ_n of_o speech_n etc._n etc._n not_o to_o excellent_a useful_a thing_n because_o see_v and_o perceive_v so_o nor_o feel_v by_o any_o natural_a anticipatory_a sense_n in_o innocent_a soul_n nor_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n of_o which_o one_o certain_a sign_n be_v when_o thing_n be_v untrue_a unjust_a and_o trivial_a these_o i_o say_v be_v sign_n that_o the_o heat_n the_o very_a corporeal_a affection_n of_o the_o soul_n come_v not_o from_o understand_v natural_a impression_n or_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o from_o some_o other_o cause_n and_o that_o be_v usual_o the_o natural_a or_o affect_a motion_n of_o the_o body_n i_o see_v not_o but_o we_o may_v as_o well_o expect_v to_o have_v our_o prayer_n hear_v in_o these_o thing_n and_o to_o receive_v they_o as_o in_o other_o nay_o in_o some_o of_o they_o the_o most_o of_o all_o such_o as_o be_v the_o truth_n justice_n importance_n of_o our_o desire_n our_o sincerity_n and_o proportionable_a fervency_n of_o spirit_n we_o can_v make_v a_o more_o acceptable_a prayer_n to_o god_n than_o for_o such_o qualification_n as_o these_o the_o other_o of_o variety_n particularity_n of_o thing_n but_o especial_o of_o word_n and_o expression_n be_v much_o less_o useful_a and_o considerable_a and_o this_o especial_o if_o we_o be_v private_a person_n and_o the_o less_o it_o be_v our_o office_n to_o pray_v with_o other_o in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o mean_v it_o be_v we_o be_v principal_o to_o expect_v that_o god_n almighty_a will_n by_o his_o immediate_a influence_n by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n help_v we_o to_o pray_v well_o if_o we_o set_v ourselves_o to_o read_v the_o scripture_n and_o other_o good_a book_n to_o consider_v examine_v meditate_v reflect_v to_o pray_v to_o he_o he_o may_v though_o we_o can_v tell_v when_o or_o how_o much_o suggest_v to_o and_o illuminate_v our_o understanding_n and_o which_o be_v best_a of_o all_o excite_v holy_a affection_n and_o inclination_n it_o be_v not_o likely_a to_o be_v just_a before_o we_o be_v go_v to_o pray_v or_o in_o prayer_n when_o we_o have_v be_v careless_a but_o yet_o by_o either_o the_o natural_a temper_n of_o our_o body_n or_o by_o our_o own_o strain_n excitation_n or_o endeavour_n our_o invention_n and_o memory_n be_v much_o better_a than_o we_o expect_v nor_o indeed_o seem_v it_o to_o be_v so_o much_o matter_n which_o way_n god_n help_v and_o assist_v we_o to_o pray_v as_o we_o ought_v whether_o mediate_o by_o mean_n or_o immediate_o so_o it_o be_v do_v sect_n xxi_o 5._o i_o add_v that_o our_o prayer_n for_o we_o may_v pray_v sincere_o for_o a_o great_a degree_n or_o for_o constancy_n of_o sincerity_n itself_o for_o all_o these_o due_a qualification_n may_v be_v successful_a let_v we_o be_v sure_a to_o be_v sincere_a heart_a desirous_a and_o ready_a to_o use_v all_o that_o god_n shall_v bestow_v upon_o we_o to_o serve_v he_o by_o do_v good_a and_o especial_o in_o this_o case_n if_o god_n shall_v bestow_v upon_o we_o this_o spirit_n and_o gift_n of_o prayer_n more_o or_o less_o that_o we_o be_v humble_a and_o modest_a and_o that_o we_o do_v not_o think_v of_o ourselves_o above_o what_o we_o ought_v not_o think_v ourselves_o to_o have_v more_o than_o we_o have_v nor_o to_o neglect_v and_o take_v no_o notice_n of_o god_n the_o giver_n as_o if_o we_o have_v what_o we_o have_v from_o ourselves_o that_o we_o be_v not_o vainglorious_a contemptuous_a of_o other_o please_v ourselves_o absolute_o in_o our_o own_o superiority_n to_o they_o but_o that_o we_o mortify_v and_o extinguish_v all_o such_o vile_a appetite_n affection_n and_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n or_o degenerate_a and_o sinful_a nature_n and_o that_o we_o humble_o acknowledge_v god_n the_o author_n of_o what_o we_o have_v and_o be_v be_v it_o more_o or_o less_o that_o we_o have_v a_o right_n and_o due_a estimation_n of_o it_o that_o we_o remember_v very_o well_o like_o and_o high_o approve_v of_o it_o that_o we_o and_o all_o we_o have_v be_v give_v we_o not_o for_o ourselves_o only_o to_o please_v ourselves_o but_o to_o please_v god_n by_o do_v good_a with_o they_o these_o be_v the_o likely_a capacity_n to_o receive_v these_o thing_n of_o god_n these_o render_v we_o the_o most_o fit_a subject_n for_o god_n suggestion_n instruction_n illumination_n excitation_n of_o holy_a affection_n for_o all_o divine_a thing_n and_o indeed_o for_o all_o other_o favour_n the_o meek_n will_v he_o guide_v in_o judgement_n and_o the_o meek_n will_v he_o teach_v his_o way_n psalm_n 25._o verse_n 9_o sect_n xxii_o 6._o in_o one_o word_n when_o thou_o have_v make_v all_o thy_o petition_n and_o propound_v they_o to_o god_n refer_v they_o all_o most_o free_o to_o the_o divine_a will_n let_v there_o be_v nothing_o that_o thou_o have_v desire_v but_o if_o it_o seem_v not_o fit_a to_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n thou_o retract_a it_o and_o desire_v it_o not_o thou_o obstinate_o desire_v nothing_o by_o this_o mean_n thou_o will_v be_v sure_a that_o all_o thy_o petition_n will_v be_v just_a for_o in_o sum_n thou_o desire_v no_o more_o than_o god_n think_v fit_a and_o sure_o all_o that_o be_v just_a it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o sage_a say_n in_o pir._n avoth_o of_o r._n simeon_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d make_v not_o thy_o prayer_n fix_v i_o think_v it_o will_v be_v no_o great_a harm_n do_v to_o the_o rabbi_n and_o agreeable_a enough_o to_o what_o there_o follow_v if_o we_o interpret_v it_o that_o our_o prayer_n shall_v not_o be_v such_o as_o to_o fix_v and_o prescribe_v certain_a law_n to_o god_n but_o to_o implore_v his_o mercy_n and_o leave_n all_o to_o his_o wise_a and_o good_a will._n sect_n xxiii_o 7._o which_o indeed_o shall_v have_v be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n be_v the_o most_o general_a be_v not_o content_a and_o satisfy_v with_o any_o prayer_n some_o there_o be_v in_o which_o be_v many_o thing_n false_a some_o in_o which_o be_v many_o petition_n and_o desire_n from_o god_n very_o just_a and_o yet_o with_o a_o strange_a boldness_n and_o confidence_n as_o if_o man_n will_v prescribe_v to_o god_n or_o that_o they_o always_o know_v certain_o what_o he_o ought_v to_o do_v and_o what_o he_o therefore_o will_v do_v in_o thing_n which_o neither_o they_o nor_o any_o other_o man_n can_v have_v much_o certainty_n without_o divine_a revelation_n nay_o sometime_o in_o thing_n where_o the_o contrary_a to_o what_o they_o desire_v seem_v most_o likely_a to_o other_o beside_o themselves_o to_o be_v just_a and_o therefore_o fit_a for_o god_n to_o grant_v as_o when_o one_o party_n pray_v for_o success_n in_o he_o or_o his_o party_n cause_n for_o victory_n or_o superiority_n when_o a_o man_n pray_v that_o god_n will_v defend_v and_o propagate_v his_o truth_n mean_v some_o certain_a opinion_n of_o his_o own_o which_o may_v be_v false_a and_o hurtful_a all_o which_o general_o come_v from_o pride_n and_o self-conceit_n mortal_n be_v very_o apt_a