the_o inquisition_n and_o judicature_n of_o conscience_n wealth_n and_o wickedness_n harden_v they_o against_o the_o most_o serious_a counsel_n the_o most_o solemn_a reproof_n and_o ardent_a exhortation_n they_o be_v blind_a to_o the_o sun_n and_o deaf_a to_o thunder_n but_o a_o sharp_a affliction_n clear_v the_o eye_n unlock_v the_o ear_n open_v the_o heart_n and_o prick_v the_o tender_a vein_n the_o awaken_v penitent_a will_v make_v a_o exact_a search_n to_o find_v out_o the_o achan_n the_o troubler_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o special_a sin_n be_v so_o in_o the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o vigilant_a and_o afflict_a conscience_n the_o bitter_a remembrance_n of_o that_o sin_n be_v answerable_a to_o its_o gild_n the_o more_o it_o be_v indulge_v the_o more_o the_o law_n of_o god_n be_v despise_v the_o more_o it_o wound_v the_o spirit_n when_o the_o pleasure_n be_v past_a nothing_o remain_v but_o the_o sting_n and_o poison_n joseph_n brethren_n who_o so_o long_o have_v be_v insensible_a of_o their_o treacherous_a sell_v he_o to_o bondage_n and_o misery_n yet_o in_o their_o fear_n conscience_n remember_v it_o with_o aggravation_n of_o their_o unnatural_a cruelty_n and_o they_o say_v one_o to_o another_o we_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n in_o that_o we_o see_v the_o anguish_n of_o his_o soul_n when_o he_o beseech_v we_o and_o we_o will_v not_o hear_v therefore_o be_v this_o distress_n come_v upon_o we_o last_o consider_v the_o several_a kind_n of_o sin_n to_o find_v out_o your_o own_o some_o be_v of_o omission_n some_o of_o commission_n some_o be_v spiritual_a and_o inward_a some_o be_v carnal_a and_o act_v with_o noise_n and_o notice_n some_o distinct_o flow_v from_o visible_a cause_n some_o spring_n from_o a_o unsuspected_a fountain_n there_o be_v many_o of_o a_o civil_a compose_v conversation_n who_o be_v careless_a of_o spiritual_a duty_n of_o holy_a communion_n with_o god_n by_o raise_v solemn_a thought_n and_o ardent_a desire_n of_o watchfulness_n over_o their_o heart_n to_o regulate_v their_o aim_n and_o affection_n by_o the_o pure_a law_n and_o be_v insensible_a of_o their_o neglect_n and_o gild_n the_o unrenewed_a nature_n have_v a_o strong_a reluctance_n against_o spiritual_a duty_n many_o be_v righteous_a to_o man_n and_o unrighteous_a towards_o god_n they_o do_v not_o pay_v those_o duty_n that_o be_v indispensible_o require_v from_o reasonable_a creature_n to_o the_o bless_a creator_n the_o high_a love_n for_o his_o perfection_n and_o benefit_n a_o obedient_a respect_n to_o his_o command_n in_o their_o action_n a_o resign_v submission_n to_o his_o will_n and_o wisdom_n a_o entire_a trust_n in_o his_o fatherly_a providence_n and_o zeal_n for_o his_o glory_n many_o rob_v he_o of_o that_o time_n that_o be_v consecrate_v to_o his_o service_n the_o lord_n day_n though_o it_o be_v our_o privilege_n as_o well_o as_o duty_n to_o keep_v it_o holy_a when_o the_o public_a worship_n be_v at_o a_o end_n as_o if_o the_o remainder_n be_v unsanctified_a they_o wretched_o waste_v in_o complemental_a visit_n in_o civil_a matter_n in_o discourse_n impertinent_a to_o the_o solemn_a work_n of_o it_o many_o who_o be_v diligent_a to_o provide_v for_o their_o family_n yet_o be_v as_o bad_a as_o infidel_n in_o neglect_v to_o instruct_v their_o child_n and_o servant_n in_o the_o save_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o command_v they_o to_o be_v circumspect_a in_o their_o way_n to_o set_v before_o they_o a_o live_a pattern_n of_o holiness_n and_o careless_o suffer_v their_o precious_a soul_n to_o perish_v for_o ever_o how_o many_o who_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o open_a rebellious_a sin_n against_o the_o law_n yet_o neglect_v the_o great_a indispensible_a duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n a_o humble_a unfeigned_a entire_a close_n with_o christ_n as_o their_o prince_n and_o saviour_n they_o presume_v upon_o their_o moral_a virtue_n of_o the_o safety_n and_o goodness_n of_o their_o condition_n they_o never_o have_v a_o feel_a sense_n of_o their_o want_n of_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n to_o reconcile_v they_o to_o god_n nor_o of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o make_v they_o partaker_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n as_o if_o only_a the_o profane_a riotous_a notorious_a sinner_n have_v need_n of_o his_o most_o precious_a merit_n and_o mediation_n to_o abolish_v their_o gild_n and_o save_v they_o from_o hell_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o sanctify_v they_o from_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o civil_a person_n remain_v in_o a_o unrenewed_a state_n and_o be_v the_o natural_a subject_n of_o satan_n and_o die_v in_o their_o sin_n some_o be_v regular_a in_o a_o course_n of_o religious_a duty_n they_o pray_v hear_v the_o word_n receive_v the_o sacrament_n but_o without_o those_o holy_a affection_n that_o be_v the_o life_n of_o religious_a duty_n yet_o content_v themselves_o with_o the_o external_a bodily_a service_n which_o be_v neither_o please_v to_o god_n nor_o profitable_a to_o their_o soul_n some_o cherish_v a_o secret_a pride_n that_o they_o be_v not_o so_o bad_a as_o other_o some_o a_o vain_a presumption_n of_o the_o divine_a favour_n because_o they_o serve_v god_n in_o a_o pure_a way_n of_o worship_n than_o other_o when_o they_o neglect_v substantial_a religion_n that_o recommend_v we_o to_o his_o gracious_a eye_n some_o will_v severe_o reflect_v upon_o the_o visible_a sin_n of_o other_o whilst_o there_o be_v a_o unperceived_a consumption_n of_o the_o spiritual_a life_n in_o themselves_o this_o may_v seem_v to_o proceed_v from_o the_o hatred_n of_o sin_n when_o the_o real_a inward_a motive_n be_v to_o quiet_a conscience_n by_o a_o appearance_n of_o zeal_n against_o sin_n and_o make_v it_o inobservant_a of_o their_o inward_a voluntary_a defect_n the_o most_o excellent_a thing_n may_v be_v counterfeit_a satan_n may_v transform_v himself_o into_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n sinful_a affection_n may_v be_v varnish_v and_o gild_v so_o as_o to_o be_v mistake_v for_o divine_a grace_n brief_o the_o heart_n be_v a_o everlasting_a deceiver_n and_o without_o a_o perpetual_a watchfulness_n we_o be_v in_o danger_n of_o close_a corruption_n that_o will_v blast_v our_o sincerity_n to_o find_v out_o our_o sin_n it_o be_v requisite_a to_o search_v where_o we_o may_v think_v there_o be_v little_a reason_n to_o expect_v the_o find_v it_o 2._o i_o will_v now_o consider_v what_o the_o preserve_a himself_o from_o his_o peculiar_a sin_n imply_v 1._o a_o abstain_v from_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o sin._n when_o david_n have_v a_o opportunity_n to_o destroy_v saul_n his_o unrighteous_a and_o implacable_a enemy_n and_o secure_v himself_o when_o excite_v to_o it_o by_o abishai_n who_o will_v have_v dispatch_v he_o at_o a_o blow_n yet_o he_o reject_v the_o temptation_n with_o abhorrence_n the_o lord_n forbid_v that_o i_o shall_v 11._o stretch_v forth_o my_o hand_n against_o the_o lord_n be_v anoint_v thus_o he_o preserve_v his_o innocence_n and_o integrity_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o he_o that_o commit_v 8._o sin_n be_v a_o servant_n of_o sin_n a_o indulgent_a course_n of_o sin_n denominate_v a_o person_n a_o slave_n of_o sin_n and_o a_o rebel_n against_o god_n and_o be_v utter_o inconsistent_a with_o sincerity_n it_o be_v true_a a_o upright_a man_n may_v fall_v by_o sudden_a surreption_n by_o a_o insinuate_a infirmity_n into_o a_o foul_a sin_n from_o which_o he_o have_v a_o settle_a aversation_n and_o keep_v himself_o in_o the_o general_a course_n of_o his_o life_n and_o that_o single_a act_n of_o sin_n be_v a_o blemish_n of_o his_o integrity_n but_o retract_v by_o a_o speedy_a repentance_n do_v not_o denominate_v he_o a_o hypocrite_n one_o may_v be_v pale_a from_o a_o accidental_a surprise_n by_o fear_n or_o red_a through_o a_o sudden_a flush_a of_o blood_n from_o anger_n yet_o not_o be_v so_o by_o complexion_n for_o the_o complexion_n pale_a and_o sanguine_a be_v draw_v by_o the_o pencil_n of_o nature_n the_o lively_a character_n of_o the_o predominant_a humour_n and_o be_v usual_o visible_a in_o the_o countenance_n but_o although_o a_o upright_a person_n keep_v himself_o from_o the_o gross_a act_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v clear_o against_o natural_a conscience_n and_o supernatural_a grace_n yet_o whilst_o we_o be_v clothe_v with_o flesh_n the_o body_n of_o sin_n do_v not_o final_o expire_v and_o temptation_n be_v as_o importunate_a as_o fly_n about_o we_o from_o who_o the_o tempter_n have_v his_o title_n that_o it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a to_o be_v absolute_o undefiled_a therefore_o uprightness_n require_v that_o we_o shall_v careful_o consider_v our_o weak_a side_n what_o passion_n we_o be_v most_o inclinable_a to_o by_o our_o temper_n and_o so_o diligent_o fortify_v ourselves_o against_o they_o that_o they_o may_v not_o have_v dominion_n over_o we_o and_o though_o we_o can_v arrive_v yet_o we_o may_v advance_v towards_o the_o complete_a conquest_n of_o sin._n and_o in_o our_o endeavour_n against_o the_o sin_n to_o
the_o people_n by_o degree_n to_o they_o yet_o be_v crafty_a to_o hide_v their_o design_n caesar_n sometime_o appear_v public_o with_o a_o wreath_n of_o laurel_n on_o his_o head_n but_o lest_o the_o people_n from_o his_o wear_v that_o appearance_n of_o a_o crown_n shall_v be_v jealous_a of_o his_o intention_n pretend_v it_o be_v only_o to_o supply_v his_o want_n of_o hair_n and_o cover_v his_o baldness_n pompey_n wear_v a_o white_a fillet_n curious_o wrought_v about_o his_o leg_n in_o pretence_n that_o his_o leg_n be_v hurt_v but_o in_o truth_n because_o it_o be_v a_o diadem_n a_o royal_a ornament_n gell._n for_o which_o he_o be_v reproach_v by_o some_o strict_a observer_n there_o be_v innumerable_a art_n use_v to_o cover_v man_n respective_a sin_n i_o shall_v only_o instance_n in_o one_o that_o be_v usual_o practise_v how_o do_v many_o like_o the_o crafty_a lapwing_n that_o flutter_v at_o a_o distance_n from_o its_o nest_n appear_v zealous_a against_o the_o visible_a sin_n of_o other_o that_o under_o that_o shadowy_a deceit_n they_o may_v hide_v their_o own_o their_o word_n feather_v with_o severe_a censure_n fly_v abroad_o wound_v the_o reputation_n of_o other_o for_o lesser_a fault_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v suspect_v to_o be_v guilty_a of_o worse_a sin_n secret_o cherish_v by_o they_o but_o if_o the_o belove_a sin_n be_v evident_a satan_n assist_v the_o corrupt_a mind_n to_o frame_v such_o colourable_a pretence_n either_o to_o defend_v or_o excuse_v it_o that_o it_o may_v not_o appear_v in_o a_o ghastly_a manner_n attend_v with_o strict_a judgement_n and_o a_o everlasting_a hell._n when_o a_o lust_n have_v entice_v and_o draw_v away_o the_o will_n the_o mind_n be_v engage_v to_o give_v colour_n to_o the_o consent_n and_o either_o direct_o or_o in_o a_o oblique_a way_n to_o represent_v the_o sin_n that_o it_o may_v appear_v less_o odious_a and_o more_o amiable_a sometime_o the_o understanding_n be_v so_o pervert_v by_o the_o impression_n of_o pleasure_n that_o conscience_n allow_v concupiscence_n it_o be_v a_o repeat_v observation_n of_o a_o sat._n wise_a philosopher_n that_o vice_n be_v disguise_v under_o the_o resemblance_n of_o virtue_n and_o virtue_n disparage_v under_o the_o name_n of_o vice_n from_o whence_o the_o understanding_n and_o will_n the_o mind_n and_o manner_n be_v deprave_v and_o shame_n be_v cast_v upon_o the_o virtuous_a and_o boldness_n give_v to_o the_o vicious_a profuseness_n be_v style_v magnificence_n violence_n valour_n dissoluteness_n gentility_n fraud_n and_o craft_n prudence_n on_o the_o contrary_a sincerity_n be_v blast_v with_o the_o name_n of_o folly_n patience_n repute_v stupidity_n and_o conscience_n superstition_n the_o proud_a will_v set_v off_o the_o the_o lofty_a humour_n and_o carriage_n as_o a_o decent_a greatness_n of_o spirit_n and_o vilify_v the_o humble_a as_o low_a and_o sordid_a the_o choleric_a will_v engage_v reason_n to_o justify_v his_o passion_n he_o will_v allege_v the_o provocation_n will_v anger_v a_o angel._n the_o lukewarm_a in_o religion_n will_v represent_v lukewarmness_n as_o a_o discreet_a temperament_n between_o the_o vicious_a extreme_n of_o a_o wildfire_n zeal_n and_o a_o profane_a coldness_n and_o neglect_n the_o earthlyminded_n will_v put_v flatter_a colour_n on_o covetousness_n to_o make_v it_o appear_v a_o praiseworthy_a virtue_n a_o prudent_a provision_n for_o time_n to_o come_v if_o man_n be_v quite_o destitute_a of_o defence_n they_o will_v by_o a_o mild_a construction_n extenuate_v the_o guilt_n of_o their_o darling_n sin._n the_o incontinent_a person_n will_v make_v a_o canopy_n for_o his_o lust_n as_o only_o a_o humane_a frailty_n the_o intemperate_a will_v excuse_v his_o excess_n as_o free_a mirth_n and_o harmless_a society_n many_o apology_n be_v make_v for_o the_o sin_n man_n indulgent_o commit_v some_o will_v plead_v in_o excuse_n a_o prone_a necessity_n of_o nature_n some_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o place_n they_o live_v in_o some_o their_o unsettled_a youth_n any_o thing_n that_o may_v lessen_v the_o turpitude_n in_o the_o view_n of_o conscience_n or_o in_o the_o opinion_n of_o other_o now_o plead_v argue_v love_n and_o love_n denominate_v the_o sin_n to_o be_v their_o own_o 50_o from_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o so_o many_o contract_n a_o desperate_a hardness_n and_o be_v irrecoverable_o deprave_v but_o if_o man_n can_v hide_v or_o excuse_v their_o belove_a sin_n they_o be_v impatient_a of_o reproof_n for_o it_o and_o with_o secret_a discontent_n or_o stormy_a passion_n reject_v admonition_n some_o of_o fair_a temper_n and_o conversation_n if_o a_o minister_n or_o friend_n be_v faithful_a to_o their_o soul_n and_o with_o holy_a zeal_n urge_v the_o divorce_a command_n of_o god_n between_o they_o and_o their_o pleasant_a sin_n and_o represent_v sincere_o the_o gild_n of_o their_o sinful_a course_n of_o life_n they_o become_v fierce_a and_o vehement_a and_o recoil_v upon_o their_o reprover_n as_o arrogate_a imperious_a authority_n or_o for_o rigour_n and_o severity_n or_o importinence_n in_o admonish_v they_o and_o sometime_o recriminate_a that_o the_o reprover_n be_v as_o bad_a or_o worse_a himselfl_fw-mi ike_z a_o river_n that_o pass_v without_o noise_n till_o it_o meet_v with_o the_o arch_n of_o a_o bridge_n that_o stop_v its_o free_a current_n than_o it_o swell_v and_o roar_v in_o short_a the_o indulgent_a sinner_n will_v endeavour_v to_o defend_v his_o bosom-sin_n or_o to_o subdue_v his_o conscience_n that_o it_o may_v not_o torment_v he_o for_o it_o 5._o the_o sin_n that_o the_o enlighten_v conscience_n reflect_v upon_o with_o anguish_n and_o bitter_a remorse_n be_v usual_o that_o which_o have_v be_v indulge_v and_o whereby_o god_n have_v be_v most_o dishonour_v there_o be_v so_o deep_a a_o impression_n of_o the_o deity_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o our_o duty_n and_o accountableness_n that_o it_o can_v be_v utter_o deface_v and_o though_o the_o rebellious_a will_n and_o affection_n control_v it_o for_o a_o time_n yet_o it_o remain_v for_o the_o conviction_n and_o punishment_n of_o delinquent_n conscience_n be_v a_o spy_n in_o our_o bosom_n and_o observe_v in_o order_n to_o a_o discovery_n and_o what_o be_v write_v in_o its_o register_n can_v be_v raze_v out_o it_o be_v true_a a_o spirit_n of_o slumber_n sometime_o seize_v upon_o the_o wicked_a and_o conscience_n be_v so_o stupefy_v that_o they_o sin_n without_o reflection_n and_o remorse_n but_o there_o be_v time_n wherein_o conscience_n be_v rouse_v up_o like_o a_o lion_n and_o tear_n they_o in_o piece_n according_a to_o the_o fearful_a threaten_v this_o be_v sometime_o do_v by_o the_o powerful_a preach_n of_o the_o word_n the_o apostle_n describe_v the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o its_o admirable_a efficacy_n it_o be_v quick_a and_o powerful_a and_o sharp_a than_o any_o two-edged_a sword_n pierce_v even_o to_o the_o divide_v asunder_o the_o soul_n and_o spirit_n and_o of_o the_o joint_n and_o marrow_n and_o be_v a_o discerner_n of_o the_o thought_n and_o intent_n of_o the_o heart_n when_o the_o word_n by_o a_o pierce_a application_n discover_v the_o bosom-sin_n and_o the_o fearful_a judgement_n that_o attend_v it_o so_o that_o the_o guilty_a can_v obscure_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o one_o nor_o avoid_v the_o terror_n of_o the_o other_o than_o conscience_n bleed_v afresh_o that_o be_v sear_v before_o there_o be_v record_v a_o wonderful_a instance_n of_o this_o in_o the_o act_n of_o the_o apostle_n when_o paul_n the_o prisoner_n reason_v of_o righteousness_n temperance_n &_o judgement_n to_o come_v fellix_fw-la tremble_v the_o discourse_v hist._n of_o those_o virtue_n that_o be_v direct_o contrary_a to_o his_o habitual_a enormity_n rip_v up_o his_o conscience_n to_o the_o quick_a and_o strike_v into_o consternation_n that_o lofty_a sinner_n from_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o decline_v a_o sharp_a and_o search_a ministry_n which_o be_v always_o the_o token_n of_o a_o guilty_a heart_n the_o word_n shine_v upon_o the_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d like_o the_o reflection_n of_o the_o sun_n upon_o the_o water_n that_o make_v they_o appear_v like_o blood_n make_v sin_n to_o appear_v in_o their_o crimson_a gild_n their_o bloody_a aggravation_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o the_o evil_a 20._o doer_n neither_o love_n or_o come_v to_o the_o light_n lest_o his_o deed_n shall_v be_v reprove_v when_o a_o powerful_a preacher_n as_o a_o second_o conscience_n as_o if_o he_o know_v the_o heart_n and_o way_n of_o man_n set_v their_o sin_n in_o order_n before_o their_o eye_n and_o close_o apply_v the_o threaten_n of_o divine_a vengeance_n to_o they_o conscience_n often_o join_v with_o he_o and_o as_o a_o faithful_a echo_n repeat_v the_o terrible_a truth_n to_o their_o conviction_n and_o anxiety_n in_o time_n of_o affliction_n when_o our_o sin_n find_v we_o out_o we_o usual_o find_v out_o our_o sin_n in_o full_a prosperity_n man_n be_v stranger_n at_o home_n and_o rare_o look_v inward_a they_o will_v not_o endure_v
order_n thing_n that_o temptation_n approach_v we_o upon_o our_o earnest_n and_o constant_a prayer_n we_o shall_v be_v furnish_v with_o the_o armour_n of_o god_n the_o shield_n of_o faith_n the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o helmet_n of_o salvation_n but_o if_o we_o run_v into_o temptation_n we_o provoke_v he_o to_o desert_v we_o and_o if_o we_o be_v not_o overcome_v by_o they_o yet_o for_o our_o transgress_v his_o holy_a command_n we_o be_v liable_a to_o his_o displeasure_n confirm_v grace_n be_v a_o continual_a emanation_n from_o the_o holy_a spirit_n without_o which_o we_o shall_v fall_v every_o hour_n it_o be_v therefore_o extreme_o hazardous_a to_o venture_v into_o temptation_n for_o the_o corrupt_a nature_n that_o with_o weight_n and_o violence_n incline_v we_o to_o sin_n be_v within_o and_o supernatural_a strength_n to_o control_v the_o combine_a efficacy_n of_o the_o inclination_n and_o the_o occasion_n be_v from_o above_o which_o be_v just_o withdraw_v when_o we_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o converse_v with_o the_o temptation_n of_o sin._n the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v clean_a effective_o as_o it_o induce_v a_o holy_a caution_n and_o circumspection_n to_o preserve_v ourselves_o from_o the_o defile_n captivate_a snare_n of_o sin._n it_o be_v a_o petition_n more_o necessary_a than_o that_o for_o our_o daily_a bread_n lead_v we_o not_o into_o temptation_n consider_v our_o inseparable_a frailty_n and_o the_o art_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n to_o take_v every_o advantage_n over_o we_o we_o shall_v with_o all_o possible_a ardency_n of_o affection_n pray_v that_o we_o be_v not_o expose_v to_o temptation_n or_o not_o vanquish_v by_o they_o but_o if_o we_o rash_o expose_v ourselves_o our_o prayer_n will_v be_v a_o indictment_n against_o we_o and_o we_o shall_v fall_v under_o condemnation_n 3._o serious_n resolution_n and_o solemn_a engagement_n be_v of_o excellent_a efficacy_n to_o bind_v our_o deceitful_a heart_n from_o yield_v to_o sin._n in_o the_o christian_a life_n a_o general_a resolution_n be_v absolute_o necessary_a of_o be_v faithful_a to_o god_n never_o to_o have_v correspondence_n with_o his_o enemy_n but_o always_o to_o cleave_v to_o our_o duty_n notwithstanding_o all_o the_o allurement_n or_o terror_n of_o the_o world_n to_o supplant_v our_o integrity_n and_o surprise_v our_o constancy_n david_n tell_v we_o i_o have_v swear_v and_o will_v perform_v it_o that_o i_o 106._o will_v keep_v thy_o righteous_a judgement_n the_o divine_a law_n bind_v we_o antecedent_o to_o our_o consent_n but_o have_v take_v the_o oath_n of_o fidelity_n to_o god_n there_o be_v superinduce_v a_o new_a obligation_n to_o fasten_v we_o to_o his_o service_n after_o this_o to_o revolt_v from_o our_o duty_n be_v rebellion_n heighten_v with_o the_o gild_n of_o perfidiousness_n beside_o solemn_a engagement_n against_o particular_a sin_n be_v necessary_a ephraim_n shall_v say_v what_o have_v i_o to_o do_v any_o more_o with_o idol_n he_o have_v be_v enchant_v with_o the_o love_n of_o idol_n which_o he_o renounce_v with_o indignation_n a_o practical_a decree_n a_o steadfast_a resolution_n to_o forsake_v our_o sin_n will_v produce_v a_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n in_o order_n to_o that_o end._n in_o resolve_v against_o sin_n we_o must_v depend_v upon_o the_o present_a and_o perpetual_a assistance_n of_o the_o divine_a grace_n without_o which_o our_o resolution_n will_v neither_o be_v sincere_a nor_o effectual_a carnal_a man_n under_o judgement_n do_v often_o relent_v and_o resolve_v against_o their_o sin_n from_o the_o convince_a mind_n transient_a wish_n and_o float_a purpose_n of_o reformation_n arise_v but_o till_o the_o heart_n be_v renew_v by_o divine_a grace_n the_o will_n be_v incomplete_a there_o be_v secret_a and_o sometime_o undiscerned_a affection_n to_o sin_n that_o by_o new_a temptation_n be_v draw_v forth_o and_o betray_v they_o to_o satan_n it_o be_v a_o charge_n against_o the_o hypocrite_n in_o the_o prophecy_n of_o hosea_n they_o be_v like_o a_o deceitful_a bow_n that_o be_v ill_o make_v or_o ill_o bend_v never_o send_v the_o arrow_n direct_o to_o the_o mark_n sometime_o after_o the_o carnal_a faculty_n have_v be_v sate_v with_o the_o gross_a fruition_n man_n renounce_v their_o sin_n and_o promise_v they_o will_v never_o return_v more_o to_o folly_n but_o those_o resolution_n be_v as_o insufficient_a to_o fortify_v they_o against_o the_o new_a incursion_n of_o tempt_a object_n as_o a_o wall_n of_o glass_n to_o resist_v the_o battery_n of_o cannon_n for_o there_o be_v no_o permanent_a overrule_a principle_n in_o the_o heart_n that_o make_v the_o resolution_n steadfast_a against_o sin._n but_o suppose_v the_o resolution_n be_v sincere_a and_o proceed_v from_o a_o full_a bend_v of_o the_o heart_n against_o sin_n yet_o if_o divine_a grace_n do_v not_o ratify_v they_o a_o strong_a temptation_n will_v break_v they_o as_o a_o gust_n of_o wind_n break_v the_o string_n of_o a_o cobweb_n st._n peter_n consult_v his_o affection_n not_o his_o strength_n presumptuous_o engage_v to_o his_o master_n though_o all_o man_n forsake_v thou_o i_o will_v not_o forsake_v thou_o but_o in_o the_o time_n of_o trial_n surprise_v with_o so_o strong_a a_o fear_n that_o preclude_v serious_a recollection_n and_o distract_v his_o mind_n from_o the_o deliberare_fw-la compare_v of_o the_o evil_a of_o sin_n with_o the_o instant_a danger_n he_o most_o unworthy_o deny_v his_o master_n and_o be_v a_o sad_a instance_n how_o weak_a and_o waver_a the_o best_a man_n be_v without_o the_o continual_a influence_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o determine_v their_o will_n and_o make_v they_o with_o unfainting_a courage_n persevere_v in_o their_o duty_n there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o storm_n at_o sea_n and_o a_o ship_n in_o violent_a agitation_n by_o the_o wind_n and_o wave_n and_o the_o miserable_a passenger_n with_o pale_a affright_a countenance_n expect_v present_a death_n in_o a_o lively_a picture_n and_o be_v in_o a_o real_a ship_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o real_a tempest_n and_o in_o real_a danger_n of_o be_v swallow_v up_o by_o the_o ocean_n the_o sight_n of_o such_o a_o spectacle_n without_o fear_n be_v but_o paint_a courage_n as_o the_o object_n be_v upon_o which_o it_o be_v exercise_v if_o one_o shall_v presume_v that_o his_o heart_n be_v impenetrable_a to_o fear_n because_o he_o see_v the_o representation_n of_o extreme_a danger_n without_o fear_n it_o be_v egregious_a folly_n and_o will_v be_v soon_o confute_v if_o he_o be_v actual_o in_o extreme_a danger_n of_o perish_v in_o the_o rage_a sea._n thus_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o temptation_n represent_v in_o our_o thought_n and_o when_o immediate_o and_o real_o before_o we_o and_o between_o religious_a resolution_n when_o temptation_n be_v at_o a_o distance_n and_o when_o actual_o incumbent_a on_o we_o there_o may_v be_v such_o resolution_n conceive_v in_o the_o mind_n in_o the_o absence_n of_o temptation_n that_o we_o may_v think_v ourselves_o guard_v safe_o against_o our_o sin_n and_o yet_o at_o the_o first_o encounter_n of_o a_o strong_a temptation_n our_o resolution_n may_v cool_v and_o faint_a and_o our_o vow_n of_o obedience_n may_v vanish_v as_o the_o morning_n dew_n before_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o sun_n there_o be_v such_o a_o jevity_n and_o featheriness_n in_o our_o mind_n such_o a_o mutability_n and_o inconstancy_n in_o our_o heart_n therefore_o the_o scripture_n do_v so_o frequent_o inculcate_v the_o duty_n of_o continual_a trust_n in_o god_n to_o assist_v we_o by_o his_o strength_n to_o overcome_v our_o spiritual_a enemy_n divine_a grace_n raise_v our_o thought_n into_o steadfast_a resolution_n against_o sin_n turn_v our_o resolution_n into_o holy_a action_n our_o action_n into_o permanent_a habit_n god_n work_v in_o we_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v of_o his_o good_a pleasure_n 4._o if_o upon_o intermit_a our_o watch_n we_o fall_v into_o the_o sin_n that_o we_o be_v prone_a to_o speedy_a and_o deep_a repentance_n be_v necessary_a to_o recover_v the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o to_o preserve_v we_o for_o the_o future_a against_o it_o sin_n of_o relapse_n more_o easy_o prevail_v then_o in_o the_o first_o temptation_n because_o the_o tenderness_n and_o reluctancy_n of_o conscience_n be_v lessen_v by_o the_o commission_n of_o sin_n they_o be_v more_o pernicious_a to_o the_o soul_n for_o beside_o the_o inhance_a of_o gild_n the_o unclean_a spirit_n return_v with_o more_o imperiousness_n from_o indignation_n that_o he_o be_v expel_v if_o we_o have_v be_v effectual_o tempt_v to_o sin_n let_v we_o present_o retract_v it_o by_o repentance_n there_o will_v be_v a_o suspension_n of_o god_n favour_n whilst_o we_o continue_v without_o a_o due_a sense_n of_o our_o sin_n let_v not_o the_o sun_n go_v down_o upon_o god_n wrath_n but_o with_o prayer_n and_o tear_n sue_v out_o his_o pardon_v mercy_n the_o neglect_n of_o present_a repentance_n be_v a_o
step_n to_o final_a impenitence_n that_o be_v unpardonable_a who_o can_v tell_v the_o degree_n of_o danger_n in_o continue_v in_o sin_n a_o day_n how_o many_o have_v be_v cut_v off_o in_o their_o early_a sin_n and_o lose_v their_o time_n and_o hope_n and_o soul_n for_o ever_o but_o that_o which_o more_o special_o belong_v to_o the_o present_a matter_n be_v this_o by_o the_o neglect_n of_o speedy_a repentance_n sin_n be_v more_o difficult_o retract_v by_o continuance_n in_o marc._n sin_n the_o heart_n be_v more_o unwilling_a and_o unable_a to_o mortify_v it_o the_o habit_n of_o the_o mind_n differ_v from_o the_o habit_n of_o the_o body_n these_o wear_v out_o by_o continuance_n the_o other_o be_v more_o firm_a and_o powerful_a they_o be_v second_o inclination_n and_o as_o violent_a as_o the_o first_o that_o be_v deep_o set_v in_o corrupt_a nature_n the_o heal_v a_o fresh_a wound_n be_v much_o more_o easy_a than_o a_o inveterate_a ulcer_n the_o heal_a the_o soul_n and_o renew_v it_o by_o repentance_n be_v much_o more_o easy_a and_o safe_a present_o after_o the_o wound_a it_o by_o sin_n then_o after_o continuance_n under_o the_o power_n and_o infection_n of_o sin._n a_o deep_a heart-breaking_a sorrow_n will_v prevent_v relapse_n into_o sin._n when_o conscience_n represent_v our_o sin_n in_o its_o kill_a circumstance_n as_o commit_v against_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n and_o our_o vow_n of_o obedience_n against_o the_o tender_a mercy_n and_o dreadful_a justice_n of_o god_n that_o for_o the_o low_a and_o despicable_a satisfaction_n of_o the_o sensual_a part_n we_o have_v make_v ourselves_o unholy_a and_o unhappy_a from_o hence_o the_o soul_n be_v strike_v with_o a_o sorrow_n so_o pungent_a that_o the_o love_n of_o pleasure_n be_v mortify_v and_o the_o sweet_a sin_n be_v imbitter_v the_o remembrance_n of_o that_o perplex_v anguish_n will_v heighten_v the_o aversation_n and_o resolution_n against_o sin_n the_o soul_n will_v fly_v with_o horror_n the_o occasion_n of_o offend_a god_n and_o recoil_v at_o the_o first_o glance_n of_o that_o sin_n that_o cost_v it_o so_o dear_a and_o which_o if_o entertain_v will_v renew_v its_o agony_n as_o one_o that_o narrow_o escape_v from_o be_v consume_v by_o fire_n retain_v so_o strong_a a_o impression_n of_o the_o terror_n that_o make_v he_o always_o circumspect_a to_o avoid_v the_o like_a danger_n david_n break_a bone_n make_v he_o understand_v what_o a_o fearful_a sin_n adultery_n be_v and_o cautious_a ever_o after_o but_o a_o slight_a confession_n a_o superficial_a sorrow_n a_o few_o sad_a thought_n and_o tear_n be_v soon_o forget_v when_o the_o sinner_n presume_v by_o a_o slight_a repentance_n to_o obtain_v reconciliation_n with_o god_n he_o be_v ready_a to_o answer_v the_o next_o temptation_n and_o return_v to_o folly._n 5._o fervent_a and_o constant_a prayer_n for_o the_o renew_n grace_n of_o god_n be_v indispensable_o necessary_a to_o preserve_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n it_o be_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o holiness_n that_o we_o mortify_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o body_n that_o we_o put_v off_o the_o old_a man_n and_o put_v on_o the_o new_a sanctify_v grace_n introduce_v a_o new_a nature_n the_o prolific_a and_o productive_a principle_n of_o a_o new_a life_n it_o turn_v the_o current_n of_o the_o affection_n from_o sin_n to_o holiness_n this_o be_v as_o astonish_n as_o the_o miraculous_a motion_n of_o the_o shadow_n upon_o ahaz_n dial_n that_o go_v ten_o degree_n backward_o unregenerate_a morality_n may_v lop_v the_o branch_n restrain_v from_o the_o gross_a act_n but_o sanctify_a grace_n strike_v at_o the_o root_n of_o sin_n the_o inward_a affection_n there_o be_v some_o medicine_n that_o will_v stop_v the_o fit_n of_o the_o falling-sickness_n for_o a_o time_n but_o not_o expel_v the_o cause_n the_o disease_n invade_v nature_n again_o so_o moral_a counsel_n and_o politic_a respect_n may_v stop_v the_o break_n forth_o of_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o inward_a affection_n of_o sin_n remain_v will_v make_v we_o apt_a to_o fall_v by_o the_o commission_n of_o it_o sanctify_v grace_n make_v a_o inward_a universal_a change_n in_o the_o soul_n he_o that_o be_v unclean_a in_o his_o thought_n and_o desire_n by_o the_o transform_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n love_v pureness_n of_o heart_n delight_n in_o it_o and_o have_v a_o fix_a hatred_n against_o any_o thing_n that_o defile_v the_o soul_n that_o cleave_v to_o the_o dust_n and_o pursue_v the_o acquisition_n of_o earthly_a thing_n as_o his_o treasure_n be_v refine_v and_o elevate_v by_o grace_n seek_v the_o thing_n above_o with_o vigorous_a enedavour_n in_o this_o the_o disease_n of_o the_o body_n differ_v from_o those_o of_o the_o mind_n the_o first_o notwithstanding_o 21._o the_o most_o earnest_a desire_n of_o cure_n may_v be_v incurable_a the_o other_o when_o the_o desire_n be_v sincere_a of_o spiritual_a heal_n be_v in_o the_o happy_a way_n of_o cure_n for_o vicious_a affection_n be_v the_o disease_n of_o the_o soul._n this_o change_n of_o the_o affection_n the_o effect_n of_o supernatural_a grace_n be_v obtain_v by_o fervent_a prayer_n our_o saviour_n assure_v we_o that_o our_o heavenly_a father_n will_v free_o and_o abundant_o give_v the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o those_o who_o ask_v it_o with_o such_o ardent_a affection_n as_o flow_v from_o their_o feel_a sense_n of_o the_o want_n of_o his_o influence_n in_o humble_a prayer_n we_o acknowledge_v our_o unworthiness_n our_o weakness_n our_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o divine_a grace_n to_o mortify_v our_o lust_n in_o believe_a prayer_n we_o glorify_v his_o mercy_n and_o his_o omniporence_n that_o he_o be_v both_o willing_a and_o powerful_a to_o make_v we_o victorious_a over_o our_o worst_a enemy_n the_o prayer_n of_o jehosaphat_n when_o invade_v by_o a_o vast_a army_n conspire_v the_o destruction_n of_o his_o kingdom_n be_v a_o copy_n to_o be_v transcribe_v by_o we_o o_o our_o god_n we_o have_v no_o may_v against_o this_o great_a company_n that_o come_v against_o we_o neither_o know_v we_o 20._o what_o to_o do_v but_o our_o eye_n be_v upon_o thou_o thus_o satan_n the_o world_n and_o the_o flesh_n be_v combine_v in_o war_a against_o the_o soul_n and_o we_o be_v utter_o unable_a to_o resist_v they_o we_o must_v therefore_o address_v ourselves_o to_o the_o god_n of_o all_o grace_n to_o strengthen_v our_o inward_a man._n and_o since_o some_o lust_n have_v such_o strong_a possession_n that_o like_o that_o stubborn_a sort_n of_o spirit_n mention_v in_o the_o gospel_n they_o can_v be_v expel_v but_o by_o fast_v and_o prayer_n we_o must_v with_o the_o most_o zealous_a devotion_n prayer_n join_v with_o fast_v implore_v grace_n to_o subdue_v they_o prayer_n must_v be_v continual_a if_o we_o intermit_v this_o recourse_n to_o heaven_n we_o shall_v present_o find_v ourselves_o like_o samson_n when_o his_o hair_n be_v shave_v weak_a like_o other_o men._n grace_n in_o the_o saint_n be_v not_o like_a light_n in_o the_o sun_n that_o spring_v from_o it_o self_n but_o like_o the_o light_n of_o a_o lamp_n that_o be_v constant_o feed_v with_o supply_n of_o oil_n otherwise_o the_o weak_a light_n will_v faint_v and_o die_v inherent_a grace_n be_v maintain_v by_o the_o continual_a emanation_n from_o the_o holy_a spirit_n nay_o the_o habit_n of_o grace_n be_v draw_v forth_o into_o act_n and_o vigorous_a exercise_n by_o supervenient_a exciting_a grace_n without_o which_o they_o will_v be_v ineffective_a and_o useless_a as_o there_o can_v be_v actual_a sight_n unless_o the_o light_n in_o the_o eye_n be_v irradiate_v by_o light_n of_o the_o air_n so_o without_o special_a assist_a grace_n we_o can_v do_v any_o spiritual_a good_a nor_o avoid_v evil_a we_o shall_v be_v foil_v by_o every_o temptation_n even_o the_o best_a will_v leave_v god_n and_o provoke_v god_n to_o leave_v they_o our_o saviour_n therefore_o enjoin_v his_o disciple_n the_o double_a duty_n watch_n and_o pray_v lest_o you_o enter_v into_o temptation_n david_n with_o his_o severe_a resolution_n to_o be_v circumspect_a join_v his_o fervent_a request_n to_o god_n i_o say_v i_o will_v take_v heed_n to_o my_o way_n that_o i_o sin_v not_o with_o my_o tongue_n i_o will_v keep_v my_o mouth_n with_o a_o bridle_n 3._o while_o the_o wicked_a be_v before_o i_o set_a a_o watch_n o_o lord_n before_o my_o mouth_n and_o keep_v the_o door_n of_o my_o lips._n his_o special_a guidance_n be_v necessary_a to_o regulate_v our_o tongue_n that_o we_o neither_o offend_v god_n nor_o just_o provoke_v men._n last_o faith_n in_o the_o redeemer_n be_v a_o sovereign_n effectual_a mean_n for_o the_o mortify_a sin._n the_o son_n of_o god_n incarnate_a be_v the_o fountain_n of_o inherent_a as_o well_o as_o impute_a righteousness_n grace_n and_o glory_n be_v convey_v to_o we_o by_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o mediator_n the_o supernatual_a power_n to_o do_v good_a and_o vanquish_v evil_n be_v
gulielmus_fw-la batesius_n s._n s._n theol_n prof._n aetat_fw-la 62_o nov_n 1687._o sell_v by_o n._n ranew_n &_o i._n robinson_n 1688._o the_o sure_a trial_n of_o uprightness_n open_v in_o several_a sermon_n upon_o psal._n xviii_o v_o 23._o i_o be_v also_o upright_o before_o he_o and_o have_v keep_v myself_o from_o my_o iniquity_n by_o william_n bates_z d._n d._n london_n print_v for_o jonathan_n robinson_n at_o the_o golden_a lion_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1689._o the_o preface_n it_o be_v the_o bless_a privilege_n obtain_v by_o our_o saviour_n for_o his_o people_n that_o sincere_a though_o imperfect_a sanctification_n be_v gracious_o accept_v of_o god_n the_o judge_n of_o all_o this_o sincere_a holiness_n be_v strict_o and_o indispensable_o require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o mediator_n without_o it_o we_o can_v partake_v of_o the_o treasure_n of_o mercy_n and_o of_o glory_n that_o be_v reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v therefore_o a_o matter_n that_o infinite_o concern_v we_o both_o in_o respect_n of_o our_o present_a peace_n and_o future_a blessedness_n to_o make_v a_o true_a discovery_n of_o our_o uprightness_n and_o usual_o all_o the_o fear_n and_o inquiry_n about_o our_o spiritual_a state_n issue_n in_o this_o whether_o we_o be_v upright_o or_o not_o the_o assurance_n of_o our_o uprightness_n be_v a_o fountain_n of_o relief_n in_o all_o perplex_v jealousy_n about_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n for_o notwithstanding_o our_o defect_n he_o will_v spare_v we_o as_o a_o father_n spare_v his_o son_n that_o serve_v he_o this_o great_a question_n of_o our_o sincerity_n may_v be_v clear_v by_o a_o due_a observe_v our_o heart_n and_o way_n for_o conscience_n be_v a_o inseparable_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o even_o in_o the_o heathen_a accuse_v or_o excuse_v as_o their_o action_n be_v exorbitant_a or_o regular_a according_a to_o the_o internal_a law_n and_o consequent_o give_v testimony_n of_o their_o wickedness_n or_o moral_a integrity_n the_o scripture_n indeed_o tell_v we_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n be_v deceitful_a above_o all_o thing_n and_o desperate_o wicked_a who_o can_v know_v it_o but_o this_o primary_o respect_v the_o discern_a it_o by_o other_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v who_o know_v the_o thing_n of_o a_o man_n save_v the_o spirit_n of_o a_o man_n which_o be_v in_o he_o there_o may_v be_v the_o affectation_n of_o the_o name_n of_o religion_n join_v with_o a_o disaffection_n to_o the_o thing_n there_o may_v be_v solemn_a formality_n without_o cordial_a godliness_n a_o act_n of_o piety_n and_o personate_n devotion_n for_o vile_a ends._n but_o though_o the_o impure_a artist_n under_o a_o veil_n of_o hypocrisy_n may_v be_v conceal_v from_o other_o yet_o he_o be_v not_o from_o the_o conviction_n of_o his_o own_o mind_n i_o shall_v add_v further_o that_o many_o from_o ignorance_n or_o carelessness_n may_v presume_v they_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o salvation_n when_o they_o be_v in_o the_o gall_n of_o bitterness_n and_o bond_n of_o iniquity_n there_o be_v many_o carnal_a shift_n make_v use_v of_o to_o palliate_v the_o evil_a condition_n of_o man_n soul_n but_o their_o security_n proceed_v from_o the_o neglect_n of_o due_a examine_v their_o heart_n and_o life_n it_o will_v be_v a_o vain_a excuse_n at_o the_o last_o day_n to_o plead_v the_o serpent_n beguile_v i_o for_o it_o be_v not_o mere_o our_o deceivableness_n but_o willingness_n to_o be_v deceive_v that_o expose_v we_o to_o mistake_v our_o spiritual_a condition_n by_o the_o insinuation_n of_o satan_n as_o the_o wise_a philosopher_n adul_n observe_v a_o man_n be_v the_o first_o and_o principal_a flatterer_n of_o himself_o and_o therefore_o apt_a to_o be_v deceive_v by_o other_o flatterer_n but_o if_o we_o take_v the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o impartial_o search_v ourselves_o though_o the_o heart_n be_v such_o a_o dark_a labyrinth_n that_o every_o secret_a turn_n can_v be_v discover_v though_o all_o the_o deflection_n and_o error_n of_o our_o way_n can_v be_v exact_o know_v yet_o we_o may_v understand_v the_o habitual_a frame_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o the_o course_n of_o our_o life_n it_o be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o follow_a sermon_n to_o direct_v man_n in_o the_o discussion_n of_o conscience_n that_o they_o may_v not_o from_o a_o err_a mind_n and_o corrupt_a heart_n deceive_v themselves_o in_o a_o matter_n that_o so_o near_o concern_v they_o and_o incur_v the_o double_a punishment_n in_o proportion_n to_o their_o gild_n as_o our_o saviour_n foretell_v when_o the_o blind_a lead_n the_o blind_a both_o fall_n into_o the_o ditch_n many_o useful_a rule_n be_v lay_v down_o by_o divine_n whereby_o true_a grace_n may_v be_v discern_v from_o counterfeit_n but_o the_o plain_a trial_n and_o level_n to_o the_o perception_n of_o the_o low_a christian_a be_v whether_o there_o be_v a_o sincere_a respect_n to_o all_o god_n command_n without_o the_o reservation_n of_o any_o know_a sin_n how_o pleasant_a soever_o to_o the_o carnal_a appetite_n or_o the_o exception_n against_o any_o know_a duty_n that_o be_v displease_v to_o they_o if_o man_n will_v retire_v from_o the_o vanity_n and_o business_n of_o the_o world_n into_o themselves_o and_o search_v their_o spirit_n with_o that_o seriousness_n that_o be_v due_a to_o so_o weighty_a a_o matter_n if_o with_o a_o resolution_n to_o know_v the_o state_n of_o their_o soul_n if_o conscience_n be_v inquisitive_a as_o under_o god_n eye_n that_o have_v a_o full_a prospect_n into_o every_o breast_n they_o may_v have_v a_o inward_a testimony_n of_o their_o sincerity_n or_o deceitfulness_n the_o apostle_n refer_v the_o decision_n of_o our_o state_n with_o respect_n to_o god_n to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o enlighten_v conscience_n if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o of_o any_o habitual_a indulge_v sin_n than_o we_o have_v peace_n towards_o god._n if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n from_o the_o neglect_n of_o try_v themselves_o many_o live_v in_o a_o cloud_n of_o delusion_n and_o from_o inward_a darkness_n pass_v to_o outer_a darkness_n for_o ever_o the_o sure_a trial_n of_o uprightness_n psal._n xviii_o 23._o i_o be_v also_o upright_o before_o he_o and_o have_v keep_v myself_o from_o my_o iniquity_n the_o title_n of_o this_o psalm_n declare_v the_o occasion_n of_o it_o david_n speak_v unto_o the_o lord_n the_o word_n of_o this_o song_n in_o the_o day_n that_o the_o lord_n deliver_v he_o from_o the_o hand_n of_o all_o his_o enemy_n and_o from_o the_o hand_n of_o saul_n it_o be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n of_o his_o heavenly_a mind_n that_o after_o his_o victory_n and_o triumph_n when_o his_o throne_n be_v establish_v in_o peace_n he_o recount_v the_o signal_n act_v of_o divine_a providence_n with_o holy_a ecstasy_n of_o praise_n and_o thankfulness_n and_o leave_v a_o everlasting_a memorial_n of_o god_n excellent_a goodness_n to_o he_o carnal_a person_n in_o extremity_n may_v be_v ardent_a in_o request_n for_o deliverance_n but_o when_o it_o be_v obtain_v they_o retain_v but_o a_o cold_a remembrance_n of_o god_n preserve_a mercy_n nay_o they_o often_o pervert_v his_o benefit_n the_o affluence_n and_o ease_n and_o security_n of_o their_o condition_n occasion_n the_o ungrateful_a forgetfulness_n of_o their_o benefactor_n self-love_n kindle_v desire_n for_o what_o we_o want_v the_o love_n of_o god_n inspire_v a_o holy_a heat_n in_o praise_n for_o what_o we_o enjoy_v in_o the_o psalm_n the_o inspire_a composer_n display_v the_o divine_a perfection_n in_o lofty_a figure_n of_o speech_n suitable_a to_o sacred_a poesy_n and_o in_o a_o relative_a endear_n way_n as_o manifest_v in_o his_o preservation_n he_o attribute_n such_o title_n to_o god_n as_o be_v significant_a of_o the_o benefit_n he_o receive_v sometime_o god_n discover_v the_o crafty_a and_o cruel_a design_n that_o be_v form_v against_o his_o people_n his_o eye_n save_v they_o and_o he_o be_v style_v their_o light_n sometime_o he_o break_v the_o strength_n of_o their_o enemy_n his_o hand_n and_o power_n save_v they_o he_o be_v style_v their_o defence_n here_o the_o psalmist_n with_o exuberant_a affection_n multiply_v the_o divine_a title_n the_o lord_n be_v my_o rock_n and_o my_o fortress_n and_o my_o deliverer_n my_o shield_n and_o my_o high_a tower_n and_o my_o refuge_n and_o my_o salvation_n a_o rock_n be_v a_o natural_a a_o tower_n a_o artificial_a defence_n both_o be_v use_v to_o express_v the_o safe_a protection_n he_o find_v in_o god._n he_o than_o set_v forth_o the_o extremity_n of_o his_o danger_n to_o add_v a_o luster_n to_o the_o name_n of_o his_o preserver_n the_o wave_n of_o death_n compass_v i_o the_o flood_n of_o ungodly_a man_n make_v i_o afraid_a his_o ruin_n be_v imminent_a and_o seem_v to_o be_v inevitable_a but_o in_o that_o distress_n his_o servant_n prayer_n his_o cry_n to_o god_n
the_o other_o so_o according_a to_o the_o excess_n of_o love_n will_v be_v the_o excess_n of_o grief_n of_o this_o we_o have_v a_o eminent_a instance_n in_o david_n who_o sorrow_n for_o the_o death_n of_o his_o rebellious_a son_n be_v as_o immoderate_a as_o his_o love_n the_o cause_n of_o it_o 2._o i_o shall_v now_o consider_v the_o moral_a cause_n of_o habitual_a sin_n the_o various_a circumstance_n of_o our_o life_n that_o be_v influential_a to_o give_v a_o custom_n to_o nature_n and_o viciousness_n to_o custom_n as_o the_o sea_n have_v rock_n and_o sand_n gulf_n and_o current_n tempest_n and_o calm_n so_o the_o present_a life_n have_v symbolical_o in_o its_o different_a state_n that_o endanger_v we_o in_o our_o passage_n to_o the_o next_o world._n the_o different_a condition_n of_o life_n i_o will_v consider_v under_o four_o head_n 1._o the_o several_a calling_n wherein_o man_n be_v engage_v 2._o the_o opposite_a state_n of_o prosperity_n or_o adversity_n that_o be_v attend_v with_o suitable_a temptation_n 3._o the_o society_n with_o who_o we_o be_v conversant_a 4._o the_o quality_n of_o the_o time_n wherein_o we_o live_v 1._o let_v we_o search_v for_o the_o predominant_a sin_n in_o the_o calling_n wherein_o we_o be_v engage_v for_o according_a to_o their_o quality_n temptation_n surround_v we_o and_o be_v likely_a to_o surprise_v we_o the_o spider_n spin_v his_o web_n where_o fly_v usual_o pass_v to_o entangle_v and_o destroy_v they_o so_o the_o subtle_a tempter_n lay_v his_o snare_n in_o our_o calling_n wherein_o we_o be_v conversant_a john_n the_o baptist_n therefore_o when_o the_o publican_n address_v to_o he_o for_o instruction_n master_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v say_v to_o they_o exact_v no_o more_o than_o what_o be_v appoint_v you_o and_o to_o the_o soldier_n he_o say_v do_v violence_n to_o no_o man_n neither_o accuse_v any_o false_o and_o be_v content_a with_o your_o wage_n he_o warn_v they_o against_o rapine_n and_o force_v and_o injurious_a accuse_v other_o of_o which_o sin_n publican_n and_o soldier_n be_v usual_o guilty_a i_o will_v to_o be_v the_o more_o instructive_a particular_o consider_v some_o calling_n and_o the_o sin_n that_o evident_o attend_v they_o the_o sacred_a call_v of_o minister_n do_v not_o secure_v they_o from_o temptation_n but_o such_o be_v the_o corruption_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o of_o the_o world_n that_o it_o expose_v they_o to_o dangerous_a temptation_n the_o devil_n scale_n we_o on_o the_o temple-side_n and_o often_o get_v possession_n of_o our_o heart_n minister_n be_v often_o guilty_a of_o a_o spiritless_a formality_n in_o the_o manage_n holy_a thing_n in_o the_o compose_n of_o sermon_n the_o mind_n be_v exercise_v about_o the_o matter_n order_n and_o expression_n without_o holy_a affection_n suitable_a to_o divine_a truth_n partly_o because_o from_o custom_n the_o most_o solemn_a and_o concern_v thing_n pass_v through_o the_o soul_n without_o serious_a regard_n and_o application_n and_o partly_o because_o the_o ministerial_a office_n oblige_v we_o to_o furnish_v ourselves_o with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o admirable_a mystery_n of_o godliness_n for_o the_o instruction_n of_o other_o we_o be_v apt_a to_o make_v that_o the_o only_a end_n of_o our_o study_n like_o vintner_n that_o buy_v great_a quantity_n of_o wine_n for_o sale_n and_o not_o for_o their_o own_o use_n there_o be_v not_o in_o many_o minister_n a_o spark_n of_o that_o heavenly_a fire_n which_o the_o reflexive_a meditation_n on_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a truth_n inspire_v into_o the_o soul_n which_o our_o saviour_n come_v to_o kindle_v their_o knowledge_n be_v not_o lively_a and_o operative_a but_o like_o a_o winter_n sun_n that_o shine_v without_o vital_a heat_n if_o they_o be_v enrich_v with_o rare_a talent_n they_o be_v apt_a to_o profane_v that_o holy_a ordinance_n of_o preach_v by_o secret_a aim_n and_o desire_v of_o vainglory_n the_o temptation_n be_v more_o dangerous_a because_o esteem_v and_o praise_n for_o intellectual_a excellency_n that_o be_v peculiar_a to_o man_n and_o wherein_o the_o eminence_n of_o his_o nature_n consist_v be_v very_o please_a even_o to_o those_o who_o be_v of_o a_o unspotted_a conversation_n and_o free_a from_o carnal_a pollution_n chrysostom_n confess_v of_o himself_o that_o cicer._n when_o he_o preach_v to_o a_o thin_a auditory_a his_o word_n die_v on_o his_o lip_n and_o his_o spirit_n be_v quench_v but_o when_o he_o be_v encompass_v with_o a_o numerous_a full_a assembly_n his_o spirit_n be_v inflame_v and_o he_o breathe_v fire_n the_o attention_n and_o applause_n of_o the_o hearer_n the_o regard_v one_o another_o with_o wonder_n as_o if_o never_o man_n speak_v better_a the_o reign_v over_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n by_o powerful_a oratory_n be_v apt_a to_o inspire_v vainglorious_a conceit_n into_o the_o preacher_n and_o many_o carry_v along_o by_o the_o current_n of_o their_o injudicious_a auditor_n be_v curious_a to_o bespangle_v their_o discourse_n with_o light_a ornament_n to_o please_v the_o ear_n and_o be_v not_o studious_a to_o preach_v christ_n and_o he_o crucify_a in_o a_o stile_n distant_a from_o all_o shadow_n of_o vanity_n to_o save_v the_o soul._n another_o temptation_n attend_v that_o holy_a call_v be_v from_o humane_a passion_n which_o minister_n often_o bring_v up_o into_o the_o pulpit_n with_o they_o and_o with_o a_o counterfeit_a zeal_n vent_v their_o animosity_n against_o those_o of_o who_o they_o be_v jealous_a as_o diminish_v their_o secular_a interest_n god_n under_o the_o law_n severe_o forbid_v the_o offering_n up_o sacrifice_n by_o common_a fire_n but_o only_o by_o celestial_a that_o be_v preserve_v day_n and_o night_n upon_o the_o altar_n by_o the_o priest_n it_o be_v symbolical_a that_o the_o reprehension_n of_o sinner_n by_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n shall_v not_o be_v express_v with_o heat_n of_o anger_n against_o their_o person_n but_o with_o holy_a zeal_n that_o love_n to_o their_o soul_n shall_v be_v the_o pure_a motive_n of_o the_o severe_a rebuke_n last_o the_o great_a danger_n be_v lest_o minister_n have_v a_o respect_n more_o to_o the_o temporal_a reward_n of_o their_o office_n than_o the_o divine_a end_n of_o it_o therefore_o st._n peter_n with_o that_o solemnity_n enjoin_v evangelical_n pastor_n to_o feed_v the_o flock_n of_o god_n take_v 3._o the_o oversight_n thereof_o not_o by_o constraint_n but_o willing_o not_o for_o filthy_a lucre_n but_o of_o a_o ready_a mind_n neither_o to_o act_v as_o lord_n over_o god_n heritage_n but_o to_o be_v ensample_n to_o the_o flock_n it_o be_v true_a the_o labourer_n be_v worthy_a of_o his_o reward_n and_o if_o we_o sow_v spiritual_a 11._o thing_n be_v it_o a_o great_a matter_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v if_o we_o reap_v your_o carnal_a thing_n but_o though_o it_o be_v natural_a and_o regular_a to_o eat_v to_o live_v yet_o to_o live_v to_o eat_v be_v prodigious_o brutish_a so_o it_o be_v a_o most_o guilty_a vile_a intention_n to_o use_v the_o sacred_a ministry_n for_o obtain_v secular_a thing_n this_o will_v corrupt_v the_o heart_n and_o hinder_v the_o discharge_n the_o office_n with_o sincerity_n and_o constancy_n for_o the_o end_n be_v the_o rule_n and_o measure_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o a_o worldly_a minister_n will_v frame_v his_o sermon_n and_o order_v his_o affair_n to_o obtain_v the_o world._n if_o it_o be_v for_o his_o secular_a interest_n he_o will_v appear_v as_o a_o apostle_n full_a of_o zeal_n against_o error_n and_o sin_n but_o if_o the_o preach_v the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n and_o holiness_n be_v prejudicial_a to_o his_o worldly_a design_n he_o will_v neglect_v his_o duty_n to_o preserve_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n untainted_a from_o destructive_a error_n he_o will_v mollify_v the_o threaten_n of_o scripture_n rebate_v their_o edge_n and_o thereby_o harden_v the_o heart_n of_o presumptuous_a sinner_n as_o it_o be_v observe_v 4._o of_o the_o vine_n if_o they_o be_v support_v upon_o crooked_a stake_n they_o will_v grow_v so_o so_o carnal_a preacher_n will_v conform_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o humour_n of_o those_o upon_o who_o they_o servile_o depend_v in_o court_n of_o judicature_n the_o temptation_n be_v intimate_v in_o the_o wise_a advice_n of_o jethro_n to_o moses_n that_o he_o shall_v choose_v man_n fear_v god_n and_o hate_v covetousness_n without_o the_o overrule_a fear_n of_o god_n judge_n will_v not_o do_v their_o duty_n even_o and_o courageous_o humane_a respect_n will_v tempt_v they_o to_o bend_v the_o rule_n to_o the_o obliquity_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o desire_n when_o they_o be_v influence_v by_o the_o fear_n or_o favour_n of_o man_n they_o will_v part_v with_o justice_n and_o conscience_n and_o true_a honour_n and_o their_o soul_n and_o how_o often_o do_v the_o weight_n of_o gold_n turn_v the_o scale_n in_o judgement_n and_o preponderate_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o cause_n with_o those_o who_o be_v most_o solemn_o oblige_v to_o universal_a
which_o we_o be_v most_o inclinable_a and_o that_o often_o foil_v we_o constancy_n be_v inseparable_a from_o sincerity_n if_o we_o neglect_v the_o humble_v of_o our_o soul_n for_o unavoidable_a infirmity_n the_o earnest_n seek_v for_o the_o divine_a mercy_n and_o grace_n and_o a_o careful_a watch_v against_o they_o we_o so_o far_o decline_v from_o uprightness_n 2._o it_o imply_v the_o mortify_a the_o inward_a affection_n to_o that_o sin._n the_o rule_n of_o our_o duty_n require_v this_o cleanse_v your_o hand_n you_o sinner_n purify_v your_o heart_n you_o 8._o double-minded_n the_o will_n be_v the_o proper_a principle_n of_o sin_n and_o from_o the_o depravation_n of_o the_o free_a faculty_n actual_a sin_n proceed_v as_o the_o love_n of_o the_o subject_n be_v the_o strength_n of_o the_o prince_n so_o the_o love_n of_o any_o sin_n preserve_v its_o dominion_n there_o may_v be_v a_o concurrence_n of_o circumstance_n to_o hinder_v the_o actual_a commission_n of_o sin_n of_o which_o the_o heart_n be_v guilty_a a_o unclean_a person_n when_o separate_v from_o the_o object_n of_o his_o impure_a desire_n may_v languish_v in_o his_o lust_n and_o by_o contemplative_a commission_n be_v guilty_a before_o god._n a_o malicious_a person_n may_v keep_v the_o fire_n of_o malice_n in_o his_o breast_n without_o the_o least_o discovery_n by_o a_o spark_n or_o smoak_n in_o his_o word_n or_o action_n wait_v for_o a_o opportunity_n that_o he_o may_v take_v his_o full_a revenge_n and_o be_v a_o murderer_n in_o his_o wish_n the_o rapacious_a desire_n of_o another_o good_n senec._n without_o actual_a robbery_n induce_v the_o gild_n of_o thest._n there_o may_v be_v a_o invincible_a bar_n between_o the_o sinful_a affection_n and_o the_o object_n sickness_n or_o age_n may_v so_o waste_v the_o vigour_n of_o the_o body_n that_o we_o can_v perform_v the_o gross_a act_n of_o sin_n but_o this_o abstinence_n have_v no_o moral_a value_n for_o it_o only_o proceed_v from_o the_o disability_n of_o the_o instrumental_a faculty_n if_o one_o in_o a_o consumption_n leave_v his_o revel_a and_o licentiousness_n it_o be_v no_o sign_n of_o divine_a grace_n but_o of_o waste_a nature_n as_o in_o a_o sick_a person_n the_o appetite_n fail_v the_o soul_n abhor_v 33._o dainty_a meat_n but_o if_o he_o recover_v his_o appetite_n revive_v and_o be_v more_o crave_v for_o his_o abstinence_n thus_o many_o who_o can_v not_o enjoy_v their_o pleasant_a lust_n in_o the_o time_n of_o disease_n be_v restore_v to_o strength_n their_o vicious_a affection_n be_v reincit_v by_o new_a temptation_n and_o with_o great_a excess_n act_v over_o their_o old_a sin_n as_o if_o they_o will_v pay_v interest_n for_o their_o impatient_a forbearance_n a_o old_a sinner_n may_v retain_v and_o cherish_v the_o fire_n of_o lust_n in_o his_o heart_n when_o age_n have_v snow_v upon_o his_o head_n as_o in_o mount_n aetna_n the_o sulphurous_a fire_n and_o snow_n be_v near_o together_o but_o as_o the_o philosopher_n observe_v if_o a_o young_a eye_n be_v put_v into_o a_o old_a man_n head_n he_o will_v see_v as_o clear_o as_o ever_o so_o if_o natural_a strength_n be_v restore_v in_o a_o unconverted_a sinner_n he_o will_v be_v as_o ardent_a and_o active_a in_o prosecute_a his_o carnal_a desire_n as_o before_o terror_n of_o conscience_n may_v stop_v the_o current_n of_o man_n lust_n fear_n have_v torment_n and_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n the_o fear_n of_o visible_a vengeance_n that_o sometime_o strike_v the_o wicked_a or_o the_o apprehension_n of_o judgement_n to_o come_v may_v control_v the_o licentious_a appetite_n from_o break_v forth_o into_o actual_a commission_n of_o sin_n but_o as_o when_o the_o lion_n spare_v daniel_n it_o be_v not_o from_o the_o change_n of_o their_o wild_a devour_a nature_n for_o they_o destroy_v his_o accuser_n immediate_o but_o from_o the_o suspending_a their_o hurtful_a power_n so_o when_o a_o strong_a fear_n lay_v a_o restraint_n upon_o the_o active_a power_n yet_o inward_a lust_n be_v the_o same_o and_o will_v licentious_o commit_v sin_n be_v the_o restraint_n licet_fw-la take_v away_o the_o keep_n one_o self_n from_o sin_n that_o be_v the_o sign_n of_o uprightness_n proceed_v from_o the_o mortification_n of_o the_o flesh_n with_o the_o affection_n and_o lust_n thereof_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o carnal_a circumcision_n without_o the_o circumcision_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v of_o no_o avail_n to_o obtain_v the_o favour_n of_o god_n so_o the_o outward_a forbearance_n of_o sin_n without_o inward_a purity_n can_v never_o commend_v we_o to_o the_o divine_a acceptance_n a_o rebel_n may_v be_v drive_v from_o the_o frontier_n but_o so_o long_o as_o he_o keep_v the_o royal_a city_n he_o be_v unsubdued_a so_o if_o a_o lust_n keep_v possession_n of_o the_o heart_n though_o the_o executive_a power_n may_v be_v retain_v or_o disable_v from_o the_o outward_a act_n it_o still_o reign_v 3._o i_o shall_v now_o prove_v that_o the_o keep_v a_o man_n self_n from_o his_o special_a sin_n be_v a_o undeceive_a evidence_n of_o sincerity_n 1._o god_n approve_v it_o i_o be_v upright_o before_o he_o god_n have_v not_o eye_n of_o flesh_n he_o do_v not_o see_v as_o man_n see_v the_o deep_a breast_n be_v as_o clear_a as_o crystal_n in_o his_o sight_n he_o weigh_v the_o spirit_n of_o man_n and_o exact_o know_v what_o be_v true_a gold_n and_o what_o be_v counterfeit_a he_o be_v the_o searcher_n and_o judge_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o his_o approbation_n be_v the_o strong_a seal_n of_o our_o uprightness_n as_o god_n say_v to_o abraham_n now_o i_o know_v 12._o thou_o fear_v i_o in_o that_o thou_o have_v not_o withhold_v thy_o son_n thy_o only_a son_n from_o i_o so_o if_o we_o sacrifice_n at_o his_o command_n the_o sin_n that_o be_v as_o dear_a to_o we_o as_o isaac_n be_v to_o his_o father_n the_o sin_n of_o our_o love_n and_o delight_n the_o sin_n that_o be_v we_o by_o choice_n and_o custom_n than_o we_o shall_v hear_v the_o bless_a testimony_n from_o heaven_n that_o we_o love_v god_n in_o sincerity_n he_o will_v own_v we_o as_o his_o friend_n sincere_a christian_n can_v appeal_v to_o god_n in_o the_o psalmist_n language_n and_o with_o his_o affection_n lord_n search_v i_o and_o try_v i_o and_o see_v whether_o there_o be_v any_o way_n of_o wickedness_n in_o i_o they_o be_v not_o conscious_a of_o any_o indulge_v course_n of_o sin_n which_o will_v make_v they_o fearful_a of_o his_o pure_a and_o pierce_a eye_n 2._o it_o will_v appear_v that_o the_o keep_n ourselves_o from_o our_o peculiar_a sin_n be_v a_o infallible_a proof_n of_o uprightness_n by_o consider_v in_o what_o it_o consist_v in_o scripture_n uprightness_n be_v equivalent_a to_o perfection_n and_o integrity_n and_o opposite_a to_o gild_n 1._o it_o be_v equivalent_a to_o perfection_n mark_v 37._o the_o perfect_a man_n and_o behold_v the_o upright_a for_o the_o end_n of_o that_o man_n be_v peace_n the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n be_v not_o attainable_a upon_o earth_n none_o be_v refine_v to_o a_o height_n of_o purity_n without_o mixture_n and_o allay_v but_o according_a to_o the_o mitigation_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o saint_n who_o aim_n desire_n and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o obtain_v perfection_n be_v accept_v in_o the_o bless_a mediator_n as_o perfect_v now_o the_o indulgence_n of_o any_o darling_n sin_n be_v utter_o inconsistent_a with_o perfection_n in_o the_o mild_a sense_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o consequent_o with_o uprightness_n this_o will_v be_v more_o evident_a by_o consider_v that_o uprightness_n be_v equivalent_a with_o integrity_n the_o psalmist_n pray_v let_v integrity_n and_o uprightness_n preserve_v i_o integrity_n imply_v a_o uniform_a equal_a respect_n to_o all_o the_o divine_a command_n when_o conscience_n of_o our_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o the_o reverence_n of_o his_o authority_n shine_v in_o his_o law_n incline_v we_o to_o obey_v all_o his_o will_n we_o be_v upright_o partial_a obedience_n that_o divide_v the_o precept_n and_o comply_v with_o those_o that_o be_v agree_v with_o our_o carnal_a affection_n and_o interest_n and_o neglect_v the_o rest_n be_v a_o inconsistent_a with_o sincerity_n as_o death_n and_o life_n as_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o natural_a man_n be_v a_o vital_a principle_n from_o whence_o all_o the_o action_n of_o life_n and_o sense_n proceed_v so_o renew_v grace_n be_v a_o principle_n of_o universal_a obedience_n herod_n do_v many_o thing_n glad_o upon_o the_o preach_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n but_o he_o will_v not_o part_v with_o herodias_n his_o charm_a lust_n still_o have_v dominion_n in_o his_o heart_n the_o young_a man_n observe_v other_o command_n of_o the_o law_n but_o when_o our_o saviour_n try_v his_o integrity_n by_o command_v he_o to_o sell_v all_o and_o to_o give_v it_o to_o the_o poor_a and_o he_o shall_v have_v treasure_n in_o heaven_n it_o be_v say_v he_o go_v