at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n with_o saint_n steven_n we_o discourse_v with_o almighty_a god_n in_o his_o glory_n with_o holy_a moses_n &_o with_o the_o great_a saint_n paul_n ravish_v into_o the_o heavenly_a paradise_n we_o hear_v &_o see_v what_o we_o be_v loath_a to_o leave_v &_o can_v utter_v last_o holy_a solitude_n be_v the_o secure_a remedy_n against_o worldly_a desire_n it_o be_v the_o pastime_n of_o saint_n the_o ladder_n of_o heaven_n &_o the_o best_a mean_n to_o perfect_a a_o good_a christian_a soul_n without_o which_o it_o can_v experience_v true_a joy_n &_o rest_n during_o her_o abode_n in_o this_o smoky_a cottage_n of_o her_o mortality_n although_o all_o virtuous_a exercise_n which_o occur_v in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o tedious_a life_n do_v aim_n at_o the_o profit_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o order_n to_o the_o purchase_n of_o life_n eternal_a yet_o none_o come_v near_a to_o this_o happy_a purpose_n than_o the_o diligent_a use_n of_o holy_a solitude_n whereby_o our_o spirit_n be_v strong_o wean_v from_o the_o love_n of_o perish_v &_o transitory_a thing_n &_o soar_v up_o to_o the_o contemplation_n &_o love_n of_o her_o almighty_a creator_n before_o who_o in_o silence_n &_o hope_n she_o humble_o discover_v her_o want_n &_o earnest_a desire_n embrace_v he_o with_o the_o arm_n of_o a_o innocent_a &_o reverential_a love_n &_o in_o a_o manner_n enter_v into_o the_o possession_n of_o the_o sweet_n of_o a_o never_o end_a felicity_n amid_o the_o heavy_a press_n of_o worldy_a trial_n if_o therefore_o my_o philothea_n thou_o do_v earnest_o thirst_n after_o the_o delight_n of_o a_o spiritual_a retreat_n thou_o must_v serious_o apply_v thyself_o to_o the_o use_n of_o it_o for_o howsoever_o strong_a thou_o find_v thyself_o in_o resist_a temptation_n &_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o virtue_n without_o a_o retirement_n of_o thy_o spirit_n yet_o will_v the_o great_a fervour_n soon_o slacken_v &_o become_v faint_a without_o the_o supply_n of_o recollection_n by_o reason_n that_o our_o enemy_n be_v many_o powerful_a &_o restless_a &_o virtue_n how_o ever_o pleasant_a in_o the_o possession_n be_v hard_o in_o the_o purchase_n &_o our_o strong_a resolution_n not_o support_v both_o by_o frequent_a reflection_n upon_o our_o soul_n &_o those_o impediment_n that_o do_v often_o occur_v in_o our_o pursuit_n of_o piety_n &_o by_o renovation_n of_o purpose_n unto_o that_o our_o happy_a end_n will_v by_o insensible_a degree_n become_v weak_a &_o tepid_a but_o before_o thou_o undertake_v this_o work_n of_o ten_o day_n solitude_n unto_o which_o i_o advise_v &_o study_v to_o direct_v thou_o read_v attentive_o these_o few_o rule_n which_o i_o here_o insert_v collect_v out_o of_o several_a great_a contemplative_n who_o experience_n in_o the_o school_n of_o holy_a solitude_n may_v give_v they_o authority_n for_o thy_o instruction_n and_o indeed_o without_o they_o a_o soul_n may_v miscarry_v which_o will_v be_v great_a pity_n even_o in_o this_o holy_a &_o excel_a work_n &_o suffer_v illusion_n where_o it_o endeavour_n to_o shun_v &_o decline_v they_o §._o 2._o preparation_n for_o solitude_n wherefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n be_v sure_a that_o enter_v into_o this_o holy_a exercise_n god_n honour_n be_v thy_o chief_a aim_n the_o next_o a_o reformation_n of_o thy_o own_o life_n by_o a_o serious_a &_o deliberate_a reflection_n on_o thy_o past_a &_o present_a state_n &_o what_o may_v happen_v for_o the_o future_a that_o thou_o may_v thereby_o prepare_v thyself_o to_o live_v well_o &_o die_v happy_o &_o that_o death_n when_o it_o come_v may_v not_o find_v thou_o unprovided_a nor_o do_v thou_o much_o heed_n what_o the_o world_n may_v think_v of_o thy_o retirement_n thou_o undertake_v the_o employment_n of_o a_o angel_n &_o desire_v to_o have_v a_o foretaste_n of_o that_o blessedness_n which_o jesus_n christ_n have_v purchase_v for_o we_o by_o the_o effusion_n of_o his_o precious_a blood_n blush_v not_o then_o that_o thou_o begin_v now_o to_o be_v what_o thou_o shall_v be_v always_o but_o rather_o that_o thou_o have_v hitherto_o neglect_v a_o work_n wherein_o much_o of_o thy_o life_n ought_v to_o be_v employ_v and_o because_o this_o mountain_n of_o solitude_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v climb_v with_o a_o profane_a &_o ungodly_a foot_n but_o as_o in_o the_o delivery_n of_o the_o law_n so_o here_o no_o beast_n may_v touch_v god_n hill_n lest_o he_o die_v the_o sight_n of_o god_n be_v only_o promise_v to_o the_o pure_a of_o heart_n the_o soul_n must_v therefore_o be_v well_o cleanse_v by_o humble_a confession_n from_o the_o dregs_n of_o sin_n before_o she_o may_v profitable_o approach_v to_o this_o exercise_n which_o behold_v only_a object_n that_o be_v pure_a &_o spiritual_a thus_o the_o royal_a prophet_n will_v first_o wash_v his_o hand_n in_o innocency_n &_o then_o compass_v the_o altar_n make_v then_o a_o strict_a examine_v of_o thy_o conscience_n what_o sin_n may_v have_v be_v commit_v by_o thou_o what_o grace_n forfeit_v what_o punishment_n deserve_v &_o after_o this_o in_o the_o evening_n before_o thou_o enterest_n thy_o solitude_n make_v a_o humble_a &_o cordial_a confession_n of_o what_o thou_o find_v thyself_o faulty_a since_o thy_o last_o examine_v for_o since_o thy_o understanding_n be_v not_o yet_o enough_o clear_v nor_o thy_o affection_n sufficient_o inflame_v for_o a_o general_n confession_n i_o shall_v advise_v thou_o to_o defer_v it_o till_o the_o four_o day_n where_o i_o shall_v say_v more_o of_o the_o profit_n thereof_o &_o how_o it_o be_v to_o be_v perform_v this_o do_v trouble_v not_o thyself_o if_o thou_o findse_v in_o thy_o soul_n some_o ill_a inclination_n yet_o live_v there_o this_o exercise_n require_v not_o absolute_a perfection_n but_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o attain_v to_o it_o be_v we_o all_o saint_n there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n to_o use_v the_o solitude_n i_o speak_v of_o content_v thyself_o that_o thou_o be_v not_o conscious_a of_o any_o mortal_a offence_n which_o thou_o have_v not_o disclose_v with_o a_o humble_a repentance_n for_o what_o be_v past_a &_o a_o firm_a purpose_n to_o amend_v endeavour_v still_o a_o honest_a sincerity_n &_o uprightnes_n of_o heart_n towards_o god_n who_o find_v himself_o in_o this_o disposition_n let_v he_o not_o think_v that_o either_o weakness_n to_o virtue_n or_o pronesse_n to_o vice_n may_v be_v a_o lawful_a bar_n to_o recollection_n whereby_o our_o viciousnesse_n be_v weaken_v &_o virtue_n revive_v in_o we_o no_o man_n will_v starve_v himself_o with_o hunger_n because_o he_o eat_v not_o with_o a_o strong_a appetite_n §._o 3._o abstraction_n from_o usual_a care_n in_o the_o next_o place_n philothea_n thou_o must_v disentangle_v thyself_o from_o worldly_a affair_n if_o thou_o will_v approach_v to_o god_n flame_a bush_n upon_o the_o mountain_n of_o vision_n thou_o must_v put_v of_o thy_o shoe_n where_o our_o thought_n be_v glue_v to_o the_o world_n the_o soul_n will_v be_v unable_a to_o soar_v up_o with_o wing_n so_o lime_v &_o entangle_v unto_o a_o contemplation_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n for_o this_o elizeus_fw-la leave_v his_o ox_n s._n peter_n his_o boat_n net_n &_o friend_n too_o the_o hill_n of_o divine_a meditation_n be_v high_a &_o steep_a &_o not_o to_o be_v ascend_v with_o a_o heart_n load_v with_o worldly_a care_n &_o sollicitude_n nor_o yet_o need_v thou_o what_o ever_o thy_o charge_n be_v public_a or_o private_a secular_a or_o religious_a cast_v it_o whole_o off_o lay_v it_o by_o a_o while_n during_o thy_o spiritual_a retreat_n in_o some_o other_o hand_n whilst_o thou_o draw_v there_o more_o force_n &_o strength_n for_o the_o mannagement_n thereof_o if_o thou_o let_v those_o care_n enter_v in_o with_o thou_o they_o will_v become_v troublesome_a companion_n ever_o &_o anon_o distract_n thy_o mind_n from_o her_o chief_a business_n and_o in_o this_o point_n solitude_n admit_v no_o smallness_n of_o matter_n if_o thou_o give_v place_n to_o one_o thought_n which_o be_v not_o to_o thy_o purpose_n hundred_o will_v throng_v in_o with_o it_o each_o will_v prove_v a_o impediment_n to_o the_o other_o &_o all_o of_o they_o will_v trouble_v &_o divert_v the_o soul_n which_o entertain_v they_o in_o this_o her_o divine_a work_n wherefore_o be_v scrupulous_a in_o the_o observance_n of_o this_o advice_n experience_n will_v teach_v thou_o that_o distraction_n go_v not_o single_a admit_v one_o &_o in_o a_o moment_n thou_o will_v forget_v where_o thou_o be_v &_o what_o thou_o be_v about_o and_o as_o thou_o must_v discharge_v thyself_o of_o thy_o ordinary_a employment_n when_o thou_o attempt_v this_o great_a work_n withdraw_a not_o thy_o hand_n only_o but_o even_o thy_o thought_n from_o they_o so_o also_o must_v thou_o observe_v a_o more_o strict_a &_o profound_a silence_n not_o enter_v into_o a_o conference_n more_o than_o the_o rule_n of_o obedience_n &_o well_o ground_v charity_n will_v
live_v in_o heaven_n by_o contemplate_v love_a &_o delight_v in_o god_n &_o what_o appertain_v to_o his_o &_o their_o own_o bless_a life_n although_o our_o soul_n confine_v now_o to_o this_o corruptible_a body_n depend_v thereon_o for_o action_n &_o motion_n in_o this_o our_o sinful_a state_n &_o have_v ever_o a_o natural_a inclination_n to_o abide_v with_o it_o &_o therefore_o with_o pain_n depart_v from_o it_o yet_o be_v she_o receive_v not_o her_o own_o life_n from_o the_o body_n but_o be_v life_n its_o self_n &_o give_v life_n &_o action_n to_o the_o body_n she_o may_v live_v within_o herself_o have_v no_o regard_n to_o the_o inclination_n &_o motion_n of_o the_o body_n this_o she_o may_v soon_o perceive_v in_o herself_o if_o she_o tread_v not_o the_o path_n of_o sensuality_n which_o lead_v to_o earthly_a content_n but_o those_o of_o the_o spirit_n which_o tend_v to_o holy_a &_o divine_a action_n in_o imitation_n of_o the_o angelical_a spirit_n who_o working_n be_v to_o be_v ever_o fix_v in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o god_n &_o the_o execution_n of_o his_o command_n imagine_v therefore_o that_o thou_o kneel_v upon_o some_o high_a mountain_n before_o thy_o crucifix_n &_o thence_o do_v behold_v all_o earthly_a creature_n in_o their_o several_a degree_n &_o employment_n each_o one_o busy_v in_o the_o search_n of_o happiness_n in_o that_o they_o love_v most_o &_o that_o all_o these_o thing_n sudden_o fade_v away_o &_o thyself_o fall_v also_o into_o a_o trance_n &_o die_v &_o so_o do_v abide_v till_o jesus_n descend_v from_o his_o cross_n enter_v into_o thou_o &_o now_o again_o thou_o live_v &_o yet_o not_o thou_o but_o jesus_n christ_n in_o thou_o be_v thus_o dead_a to_o the_o world_n &_o only_o live_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n how_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a shall_v thy_o life_n &_o action_n be_v affection_n how_o happy_a wouldse_v thou_o be_v my_o soul_n if_o whole_o dead_a to_o flesh_n &_o blood_n &_o independent_a on_o all_o earthly_a creature_n thou_o can_v live_v the_o life_n of_o a_o angel_n whole_o drown_v in_o god_n &_o rely_v upon_o the_o light_n grace_n &_o comfort_n which_o proceed_v from_o he_o oh_o what_o joy_n what_o happiness_n to_o be_v dead_a to_o this_o world_n &_o all_o the_o vanity_n thereof_o &_o to_o live_v &_o work_v only_o by_o the_o enliven_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n how_o holy_a will_v thy_o thought_n how_o heavenly_a thy_o desire_n how_o inflame_a will_v thy_o affection_n than_o be_v towards_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a thing_n resolution_n i_o will_v hence_o forth_o lead_v a_o spiritual_a life_n have_v my_o mind_n still_o bend_v upon_o god_n &_o his_o holy_a will_n even_o in_o all_o my_o ordinary_a duty_n endeavour_v to_o lead_v a_o angellical_a life_n as_o if_o already_o separate_v from_o this_o heavy_a burden_n of_o mortality_n &_o without_o need_n of_o earthly_a supportation_n and_o i_o will_v be_v so_o watchful_a over_o my_o action_n as_o if_o i_o only_o live_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n &_o have_v no_o life_n or_o motion_n but_o what_o proceed_v from_o he_o then_o free_v from_o the_o law_n of_o death_n which_o abound_v in_o i_o through_o my_o sinful_a passion_n i_o shall_v serve_v god_n in_o the_o newness_n of_o my_o spirit_n &_o hear_v what_o god_n spirit_n speak_v to_o the_o church_n second_o point_n mental_a recollection_n consideration_n consider_v that_o to_o improve_v the_o soul_n in_o her_o inward_a tranquillity_n she_o must_v endeavour_v to_o be_v recollect_v within_o herself_o in_o all_o place_n at_o all_o time_n with_o all_o person_n &_o amid_o whatsoever_o employment_n we_o be_v by_o our_o present_a state_n of_o life_n obleige_v unto_o this_o inward_a recollection_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v easy_a &_o very_a delightful_a for_o although_o the_o soul_n be_v now_o lodge_v in_o the_o body_n as_o her_o prison_n &_o the_o variety_n of_o occasion_n which_o run_v through_o the_o course_n of_o this_o mortal_a life_n much_o solicit_v she_o abroad_o to_o seek_v mean_n how_o to_o make_v her_o prison_n more_o tolerable_a &_o thereby_o hinder_v she_o in_o the_o free_a use_n of_o her_o spiritual_a faculty_n &_o distract_v her_o thought_n from_o god_n &_o heavenly_a thing_n yet_o be_v she_o not_o a_o slave_n to_o any_o passion_n of_o the_o body_n especial_o be_v now_o heal_v &_o repair_v by_o jesus_n christ_n &_o therefore_o she_o may_v by_o mean_n of_o a_o mental_a retreat_n into_o herself_o purchase_v a_o continual_a recollection_n amid_o the_o great_a tumult_n &_o distraction_n which_o may_v befall_v she_o build_v up_o therefore_o philothea_n a_o hermitage_n within_o thy_o heart_n erect_v a_o altar_n &_o place_n thereon_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o most_o amiable_a posture_n imaginable_a &_o whatsoever_o employment_n distraction_n or_o spiritual_a distress_n press_v itself_o upon_o thou_o depart_v not_o thence_o but_o there_o lay_v open_a thy_o want_n &_o weakness_n confer_v with_o he_o of_o thy_o progress_n &_o impediment_n to_o perfection_n harken_v careful_o what_o he_o say_v to_o thou_o &_o if_o some_o violent_a disquiet_n compel_v thy_o thought_n abroad_o endeavour_v to_o re-enter_v speedy_o into_o this_o thy_o hermitage_n bewail_v thy_o inconstancy_n &_o renew_v thy_o purpose_n of_o mental_a recollection_n affection_n ah_o my_o soul_n upon_o how_o slight_a occasion_n have_v thy_o thought_n be_v distract_v &_o thy_o mind_n lose_v its_o frequent_o resolve_v tranquillity_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o thy_o usual_a duty_n how_o o_o my_o god_n be_o i_o so_o sudden_o carry_v away_o with_o these_o outward_a object_n &_o employment_n sure_o be_v i_o true_o spiritual_a i_o shall_v without_o pain_n or_o distraction_n even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o variety_n of_o this_o life_n conver_v with_o god_n oh_o that_o thou_o will_v build_v up_o the_o ruin_n of_o israël_n &_o sanctify_v my_o heart_n a_o tabernacle_n to_o thy_o name_n then_o may_v i_o seek_v my_o belove_a within_o i_o &_o receive_v from_o he_o a_o kiss_n of_o peace_n resolution_n i_o will_v not_o only_o love_v the_o solitude_n of_o the_o body_n but_o of_o the_o mind_n also_o &_o will_v build_v up_o in_o my_o heart_n a_o holy_a hermitage_n befit_v the_o presence_n of_o my_o jesus_n &_o thither_o will_v i_o still_o retire_v myself_o ever_o confer_v with_o he_o of_o his_o love_n to_o i_o &_o my_o slowness_n of_o return_v love_n to_o he_o discover_v all_o my_o want_n &_o his_o help_n to_o become_v perfect_a in_o a_o spiritual_a way_n that_o i_o may_v thereby_o enjoy_v the_o tranquillity_n of_o my_o spirit_n what_o ever_o occasion_n of_o obedience_n charity_n or_o compliance_n with_o my_o own_o necessity_n call_v i_o forth_o this_o corporal_a retirement_n o_o who_o will_v give_v i_o that_o i_o may_v ever_o set_v by_o this_o fountain_n of_o live_a water_n in_o the_o solitude_n of_o my_o own_o heart_n there_o will_v i_o sigh_v &_o mourn_v while_o i_o think_v of_o the_o heavenly_a zion_n third_z point_n union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n consideration_n consider_v that_o as_o god_n only_o be_v the_o supreme_a good_a &_o happiness_n of_o the_o immortal_a soul_n so_o can_v she_o experience_v any_o true_a &_o complete_a tranquillity_n within_o herself_o unless_o be_v inward_o unite_v to_o he_o she_o become_v one_o spirit_n with_o he_o &_o be_v as_o it_o be_v transform_v into_o a_o supernatural_a &_o divine_a be_v by_o a_o reciprocation_n of_o love_n conformity_n of_o will_n &_o communication_n in_o all_o those_o gift_n grace_n &_o spiritual_a blessing_n whereby_o in_o this_o her_o pilgrimage_n she_o may_v be_v clothe_v with_o a_o likeness_n to_o god_n &_o enjoy_v that_o clearness_n of_o understanding_n alacrity_n of_o will_n calmness_n of_o passion_n &_o universal_a purity_n sweetness_n &_o joy_n in_o the_o whole_a spirit_n which_o god_n usual_o impart_v only_o to_o his_o most_o special_a favourite_n this_o deify_v union_n philothea_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o god_n will_v wonderful_o work_v in_o thou_o a_o clear_a knowledge_n of_o the_o emptiness_n vanity_n &_o nakedness_n of_o all_o creature_n breed_v in_o thou_o a_o loathe_v towards_o the_o best_a of_o they_o &_o cause_n in_o thy_o heart_n a_o restless_a desire_n to_o see_v possess_v &_o embrace_v god_n in_o the_o simplicity_n &_o purity_n of_o his_o own_o essence_n without_o mixture_n of_o any_o thing_n beneath_o himself_o &_o for_o his_o sake_n thou_o will_v strip_v thyself_o willing_o of_o all_o creature_n &_o in_o ward_n inclination_n of_o will_n &_o passion_n &_o welcome_v whatever_o calamity_n &_o misery_n may_v befall_v thou_o for_o what_o be_v there_o in_o the_o whole_a world_n which_o that_o soul_n will_v not_o ready_o want_v do_v or_o suffer_v to_o who_o god_n be_v all-in-all_a sure_o in_o this_o delicious_a union_n espousal_n &_o transformation_n by_o love_n the_o soul_n must_v needs_o experience_n god_n a_o rich_a
glorious_a how_o pleasant_a how_o delightful_a be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o saint_n where_o thou_o o_o god_n happy_a in_o thyself_o be_v the_o happiness_n of_o thy_o glorified_a servant_n no_o grief_n all_o content_n be_v there_o where_o thou_o do_v abide_v through_o a_o fullness_n of_o their_o love_n ever_o flow_v towards_o thou_o oh_o that_o thou_o will_v transport_v i_o forth_o of_o this_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n &_o misery_n that_o i_o may_v with_o a_o fix_a eye_n ever_o behold_v thou_o the_o light_n which_o no_o darkness_n comprehend_v &_o possess_v thou_o the_o peace_n that_o surpass_v all_o imagination_n then_o will_v the_o rolling_n &_o long_n of_o my_o faint_a heart_n have_v a_o end_n &_o it_o will_v appear_v in_o i_o that_o i_o have_v be_v in_o a_o region_n of_o light_n &_o peace_n &_o be_o full_a of_o both_o &_o i_o in_o justice_n shall_v appear_v in_o thy_o sight_n &_o shall_v be_v satiate_v when_o thy_o glory_n appear_v amen_n nine_o day_n voyage_n repose_v of_o the_o soul_n in_o god_n the_o morning_n exercise_n first_o point_n the_o soul_n hide_v in_o god_n consideration_n consider_v that_o beginner_n in_o the_o contemplative_a life_n go_v from_o creature_n to_o god_n admire_v &_o love_v he_o by_o the_o beauty_n &_o lovelynesse_n discover_v in_o they_o proficient_n look_v on_o god_n as_o he_o be_v reveal_v by_o divine_a faith_n &_o by_o that_o dim_a light_n make_v pleasant_a sally_n towards_o he_o by_o act_n of_o admiration_n &_o love_n &_o restless_a desire_n to_o live_v &_o move_v in_o by_z &_o to_o god_n but_o they_o who_o be_v now_o happy_o arrive_v to_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n which_o thou_o ayme_v at_o philothea_n in_o this_o thy_o solitary_a pilgrimage_n do_v contemplate_v god_n majesty_n beauty_n &_o glory_n as_o if_o clear_o reveal_v &_o see_v in_o himself_o by_o a_o illapse_n of_o god_n into_o the_o sanctify_v soul_n &_o of_o the_o soul_n into_o god_n in_o who_o she_o hide_v herself_o repose_v without_o disturbance_n &_o enjoy_v a_o fullness_n of_o content_n without_o wander_v abroad_o thus_o s._n paul_n even_o in_o this_o life_n can_v say_v that_o his_o life_n be_v hide_v with_o christ_n in_o god_n &_o that_o his_o conversation_n be_v even_o then_o in_o heaven_n have_v place_v his_o happiness_n in_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a action_n whereby_o his_o soul_n ever_o move_v towards_o god_n &_o empty_v its_o self_n into_o he_o &_o conceal_v himself_o from_o the_o world_n by_o bear_v with_o joy_n the_o misery_n &_o mortification_n thereof_o contrary_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o those_o who_o live_v in_o the_o world_n live_v worldly_a and_o thus_o the_o life_n of_o the_o saint_n have_v be_v ever_o account_v folly_n &_o their_o death_n dishonourable_a whereas_o they_o live_v with_o &_o in_o god_n a_o divine_a life_n content_v to_o know_v love_n &_o move_v in_o he_o according_a to_o the_o light_n &_o help_v receive_v from_o he_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n philothea_n through_o divine_a help_n to_o lead_v this_o hide_a life_n in_o god_n &_o have_v our_o conversation_n in_o heaven_n even_o abide_v or_o earth_n in_o our_o mortal_a flesh_n but_o thou_o must_v then_o be_v very_o pure_a &_o holy_a have_v thy_o soul_n cleanse_v from_o all_o sin_n &_o sinful_a inclination_n press_v towards_o earthly_a satisfaction_n for_o no_o spot_n or_o stain_n enter_v that_o beautiful_a &_o clear_a region_n of_o the_o saint_n thou_o must_v also_o be_v clothe_v with_o the_o garment_n of_o charity_n towards_o all_o &_o comply_v with_o divine_a inspiration_n put_v on_o jesus_n christ_n by_o imitation_n of_o his_o mortification_n &_o promptness_n in_o obey_v his_o counsel_n thus_o abide_v in_o the_o world_n thou_o will_v not_o be_v of_o the_o world_n or_o be_v know_v by_o it_o have_v not_o its_o livery_n on_o nor_o perform_v its_o action_n but_o god_n will_v acknowledge_v thou_o to_o be_v his_o in_o who_o thou_o now_o live_v &_o have_v a_o divine_a be_v in_o he_o &_o therefore_o may_v say_v i_o live_v now_o not_o in_o myself_o but_o in_o god_n my_o life_n my_o sweet_a repose_n &_o my_o final_a happiness_n affection_n o_o admirable_a sweetness_n of_o this_o divine_a be_v of_o the_o soul_n hide_v from_o the_o world_n in_o god_n even_o in_o this_o life_n thou_o may_v ascend_v thither_o my_o soul_n quit_v earthly_a conversation_n &_o comfort_n pass_v the_o star_n transport_v above_o the_o quire_n of_o glorious_a angel_n &_o drown_v thyself_o in_o the_o abyss_n of_o god_n infinite_a essence_n o_o who_o will_v give_v i_o the_o wing_n of_o a_o dove_n &_o i_o will_v fly_v &_o repose_v in_o god_n my_o heart_n have_v desire_v his_o face_n my_o soul_n covet_v his_o presence_n o_o beautiful_a face_n o_o delicious_a presence_n o_o rich_a abode_n in_o god_n &_o in_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o saint_n only_o the_o clean_a of_o heart_n may_v abide_v there_o resolution_n i_o will_v hide_v myself_o from_o the_o world_n cast_v off_o its_o livery_n which_o be_v worldly_a &_o vain_a action_n &_o abandon_v all_o earthly_a conversation_n which_o may_v soil_n my_o heart_n and_o i_o will_v henceforth_o live_v in_o god_n by_o contemplate_v his_o glory_n perform_v heavenly_a action_n &_o order_v my_o whole_a life_n according_a to_o his_o holy_a will_n not_o regard_v what_o pass_v here_o on_o earth_n as_o if_o not_o att_o all_o belong_v to_o i_o or_o the_o life_n of_o one_o hide_a &_o live_v in_o god_n oh_o that_o my_o soul_n be_v swallow_v up_o in_o that_o divine_a sea_n god_n in_o i_o i_o in_o god_n &_o beside_o nothing_o as_o i_o begin_v from_o thou_o so_o will_v i_o end_v in_o thou_o o_o end_v without_o end_n second_o point_n search_v of_o god_n in_o god_n consideration_n consider_v that_o be_v now_o enter_v into_o god_n &_o there_o as_o moses_n on_o god_n holy_a mountain_n hide_v in_o a_o divine_a mist_n we_o must_v search_v into_o he_o &_o endeavour_v to_o discover_v plain_o what_o he_o be_v &_o how_o amiable_a be_v his_o hide_a beauty_n we_o so_o thirst_v to_o behold_v &_o enjoy_v this_o must_v be_v perform_v by_o a_o act_n of_o pure_a contemplation_n without_o depend_v on_o create_v image_n or_o discourse_n of_o reason_n but_o as_o if_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v dazzle_v with_o the_o beam_n of_o god_n divine_a &_o unaccessible_a light_n diffuse_v through_o that_o mist_n she_o must_v simple_o consider_v god_n to_o be_v so_o full_a of_o majesty_n so_o good_a so_o glorious_a that_o he_o can_v never_o be_v see_v love_v or_o admire_v as_o he_o be_v or_o we_o ought_v so_o that_o what_o ever_o we_o conceive_v of_o he_o be_v far_o beneath_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o be_v what_o ever_o we_o admire_v in_o he_o he_o be_v incomparable_o more_o admirable_a how_o ever_o we_o love_v he_o he_o be_v infinite_o more_o amiable_a lovely_a &_o desirable_a although_o each_o one_o shall_v love_v he_o as_o much_o as_o all_o the_o saint_n &_o angel_n together_o can_v for_o a_o whole_a eternity_n love_v he_o wherefore_o the_o amorous_a soul_n will_v be_v ever_o busy_v in_o search_v into_o god_n &_o discover_v his_o hide_a perfection_n in_o that_o divine_a mist_n be_v unable_a to_o discern_v clear_o even_o what_o she_o there_o already_o see_v &_o therefore_o cry_v out_o to_o god_n show_v i_o thy_o face_n and_o although_o she_o therein_o feel_v a_o most_o excessive_a sweetness_n &_o joy_n yet_o she_o be_v ignorant_a both_o what_o it_o be_v &_o whence_o it_o come_v &_o therefore_o acknowledge_v he_o to_o be_v infinite_o more_o excellent_a &_o delightful_a than_o she_o be_v able_a to_o express_v or_o imagine_v as_o it_o happen_v to_o s._n paul_n in_o his_o divine_a rapture_n if_o thou_o be_v extreme_a hungry_a philothea_n &_o do_v stand_v betwixt_o two_o table_n loathe_v the_o meat_n of_o the_o one_o &_o not_o permit_v to_o taste_v of_o the_o other_o what_o conflict_n will_v thou_o then_o feel_v thus_o it_o will_v be_v if_o the_o soul_n be_v hide_v in_o this_o divine_a mist_n for_o be_v weary_v with_o the_o search_n of_o she_o belove_v in_o create_a likeness_n &_o not_o permit_v to_o contemplate_v the_o naked_a essence_n of_o god_n in_o its_o self_n clear_o though_o present_a with_o she_o she_o still_o inquire_v after_o he_o loathe_v the_o obscurity_n wherein_o she_o be_v through_o her_o own_o weakness_n thirst_v to_o be_v fill_v with_o a_o clear_a vision_n &_o full_a fruition_n of_o god_n in_o himself_o oft_o look_v forth_o to_o make_v a_o better_a discovery_n of_o he_o entertain_v all_o his_o inspiration_n as_o so_o many_o whisper_n of_o her_o espous_a sigh_v amorous_o for_o his_o delay_v the_o comfortable_a revelation_n of_o himself_o to_o she_o &_o as_o one_o drink_v with_o love_n send_v message_n to_o he_o by_o all_o she_o meet_v that_o she_o lanquish_v with_o love_n affection_n
the_o practice_n of_o holy_a meditation_n in_o this_o experience_n will_v be_v every_o one_o best_o counsellor_n if_o place_n permit_v no_o other_o isaac_n posture_n to_o meditate_v walk_v be_v very_o good_a but_o kneel_v with_o hand_n cross_v on_o the_o breast_n the_o eye_n shut_v &_o face_n towards_o heaven_n &_o sometime_o prostrate_a on_o the_o ground_n be_v a_o posture_n more_o genuine_a &_o natural_a how_o ever_o it_o be_v be_v sure_o the_o frame_n of_o thy_o body_n testify_v profound_a reverence_n towards_o god_n &_o help_v to_o raise_v thy_o thought_n &_o affection_n thitherward_o our_o devotion_n will_v be_v most_o kind_o when_o the_o composure_n of_o the_o body_n which_o be_v the_o soul_n instrument_n be_v most_o humble_a &_o respectful_a &_o this_o also_o must_v needs_o be_v sometime_o vary_v according_a to_o the_o subject_n of_o thy_o contemplation_n §._o 7._o subject_a of_o solitary_a thought_n now_o for_o the_o subject_n &_o matter_n whereon_o thou_o be_v to_o feed_v during_o this_o holy_a solitude_n thou_o must_v use_v great_a circumspection_n i_o doubt_v not_o philothea_n there_o be_v many_o contemplative_n but_o not_o all_o good_a one_o one_o meditate_v how_o to_o do_v his_o neighbour_n a_o mischief_n another_o how_o to_o sin_v unseen_a &_o these_o be_v those_o who_o as_o david_n say_v do_v meditate_v iniquity_n in_o their_o bed_n other_o be_v buisy_n in_o the_o search_n of_o the_o hide_a cause_n of_o visible_a effect_n &_o so_o seek_v to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o whole_a world_n become_v stranger_n to_o their_o own_o home_n &_o whilst_o they_o seek_v to_o know_v other_o be_v quite_o unknown_a to_o themselves_o do_v you_o therefore_o choose_v to_o meditate_v on_o that_o may_v do_v thou_o good_a the_o god_n that_o make_v we_o the_o vileness_n of_o our_o body_n by_o nature_n the_o wretchedness_n of_o our_o soul_n by_o sin_n the_o abundance_n of_o temptation_n the_o danger_n of_o sudden_a death_n the_o beauty_n of_o virtue_n jesus_n christ_n who_o buy_v we_o the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n he_o purchase_v for_o we_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o life_n death_n &_o resurrection_n the_o benefitt_a of_o the_o sacrament_n our_o vocation_n to_o christianity_n the_o pain_n of_o hell_n the_o glorious_a estate_n of_o the_o bless_a &_o such_o like_a be_v fit_a object_n i_o shall_v think_v to_o entertain_v thy_o self_n there_o in_o earthly_a thing_n proffer_v themselves_o on_o their_o own_o accord_n with_o importunity_n but_o if_o they_o be_v any_o thing_n worth_a they_o will_v not_o be_v so_o forward_o heavenly_a thing_n must_v be_v sue_v unto_o with_o eagerness_n their_o hardness_n to_o be_v obtain_v argue_v their_o worth_n &_o the_o necessity_n of_o serious_a meditation_n thereby_o to_o solicit_v they_o the_o hard_a they_o be_v to_o prosecute_v the_o more_o precious_a they_o be_v be_v obtain_v &_o therefore_o the_o more_o worthy_a our_o endeavour_n while_o the_o soul_n be_v take_v up_o with_o the_o thought_n of_o god_n &_o godliness_n it_o can_v miscarry_v yet_o i_o advise_v thou_o to_o be_v cautious_a in_o matter_n of_o faith_n where_o more_o of_o belief_n &_o admiration_n be_v to_o be_v use_v then_o of_o reason_n &_o discourse_n and_o that_o matter_n without_o exception_n be_v best_a herein_o which_o work_v compunction_n in_o the_o heart_n most_o stir_v up_o to_o devotion_n &_o incite_v strong_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n as_o the_o end_n &_o to_o virtue_n as_o the_o mean_n to_o he_o wherein_o experience_n will_v be_v a_o great_a mistress_n §._o 8._o a_o method_n of_o meditation_n it_o remain_v now_o that_o i_o say_v something_o of_o the_o form_n &_o method_n which_o thou_o be_v to_o observe_v in_o divide_v thy_o meditation_n &_o in_o handle_v the_o part_n &_o point_n thereof_o but_o this_o have_v much_o variety_n among_o contemplative_n &_o each_o way_n be_v useful_a &_o laudable_a as_o it_o be_v fit_v to_o person_n that_o use_v it_o for_o since_o there_o be_v different_a mansion_n in_o god_n glory_n no_o wonder_n there_o shall_v be_v different_a mean_n to_o purchase_v they_o according_a to_o the_o variety_n of_o each_o one_o disposition_n all_o be_v not_o equal_o either_o worldly_a or_o contemplative_a so_o neither_o equal_o dispose_v for_o the_o like_a illumination_n nor_o capable_a of_o pursue_v the_o same_o head_n or_o point_n of_o meditation_n s._n bonaventures_o method_n usual_o practise_v among_o we_o &_o like_v of_o by_o the_o best_a be_v brief_a easy_a well_o order_v &_o much_o help_v the_o memory_n a_o faculty_n which_o have_v great_a influence_n in_o this_o bless_a work_n according_a to_o this_o meditation_n or_o mental_a prayer_n be_v divide_v into_o three_o part_n which_o be_v preparation_n meditation_n which_o be_v the_o chief_a part_n retain_v the_o general_a name_n &_o conclusion_n preparation_n make_v way_n for_o meditation_n meditation_n ruminate_v upon_o the_o matter_n &_o give_v strength_n &_o life_n to_o our_o recollection_n conclusion_n close_v up_o the_o whole_a exercise_n preparation_n first_o place_v we_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n with_o who_o we_o be_v to_o make_v our_o special_a conference_n to_o our_o advancement_n &_o comfort_n with_o all_o fear_n &_o reverence_n then_o second_o it_o choose_v the_o mystery_n or_o subject_n whereon_o we_o intend_v as_o present_v to_o settle_v our_o thought_n three_o it_o implore_v help_v from_o heaven_n whereby_o our_o weakness_n may_v be_v sustain_v in_o this_o heavenly_a work_n &_o enable_v resolute_o to_o go_v through_o with_o it_o and_o true_o since_o the_o ancient_a heathen_n never_o attempt_v any_o notable_a business_n without_o a_o solemn_a apprecation_n of_o good_a success_n a_o christian_a or_o religious_a soul_n shall_v not_o presume_v to_o undertake_v a_o spiritual_a work_n of_o such_o importance_n as_o this_o be_v without_o first_o crave_v aid_n from_o heaven_n wherein_o we_o be_v unable_a to_o do_v well_o without_o god_n assistance_n we_o must_v therefore_o beg_v earnest_o that_o the_o progress_n of_o our_o meditation_n may_v be_v guide_v &_o bless_v by_o he_o &_o that_o he_o will_v banish_v all_o distraction_n enlighten_v our_o understanding_n quicken_v our_o judgement_n rectify_v our_o will_n whet_v our_o affection_n to_o heavenly_a thing_n kindle_v our_o devotion_n &_o so_o enlarge_v our_o heart_n towards_o himself_o that_o we_o may_v find_v our_o imperfection_n abate_v virtue_n strengthen_v &_o our_o soul_n every_o way_n better_v by_o our_o solitude_n meditation_n have_v also_o three_o part_n consideration_n ponder_v serious_o the_o subject_n we_o have_v choose_v thereby_o to_o stir_v up_o our_o affection_n to_o god_n &_o goodness_n &_o thereon_o to_o ground_v our_o ensue_a resolution_n but_o care_n must_v be_v take_v that_o the_o mind_n be_v not_o wrack_v by_o a_o too_o vehement_a inquiry_n for_o this_o will_v tire_v out_o the_o fancy_n &_o interrupt_v the_o chief_a work_n it_o will_v suffice_v to_o take_v the_o most_o pregnant_a &_o obvious_a let_v these_o consideration_n be_v but_o three_o at_o the_o most_o and_o if_o thy_o soul_n find_v sufficient_a satisfaction_n light_n &_o fruit_n in_o the_o first_o of_o they_o dwell_v there_o without_o go_v further_o &_o give_v way_n to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o work_v his_o will_n in_o thou_o but_o if_o thou_o find_v not_o there_o the_o expect_a success_n pass_v quiet_o on_o to_o another_o but_o besure_n to_o go_v on_o sweet_o &_o easy_o in_o thy_o search_n without_o tire_v thyself_o too_o much_o thou_o will_v find_v little_a pleasure_n in_o the_o kernel_n if_o thou_o break_v thy_o tooth_n with_o the_o shell_n affection_n succee_v where_o to_o if_o our_o consideration_n reach_v not_o they_o will_v prove_v vain_a or_o to_o little_a purpose_n for_o this_o be_v the_o soul_n of_o meditation_n to_o which_o the_o former_a part_n serve_v only_o as_o instrument_n as_o we_o be_v reasonable_a creature_n by_o our_o reason_n &_o discourse_n so_o be_v we_o christian_n &_o religious_a by_o our_o good_a will_n &_o affection_n towards_o heavenly_a thing_n wherefore_o the_o former_a labour_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v undertake_v to_o move_v the_o affective_a part_n of_o the_o soul_n after_o the_o understanding_n have_v traverse_v the_o point_n propose_v the_o will_n must_v endeavour_v by_o apply_v herself_o thereto_o with_o all_o earnestness_n to_o find_v some_o feel_a relish_n in_o it_o which_o fruit_n through_o god_n blessing_n will_v follow_v a_o deliberate_a consideration_n of_o some_o move_a object_n and_o in_o these_o affection_n we_o must_v permit_v our_o soul_n to_o spread_v &_o dilate_v as_o much_o as_o possible_a if_o thou_o find_v thy_o heart_n to_o pant_v &_o swell_v with_o abundant_a sweetness_n ease_v it_o by_o some_o gentle_a aspiration_n &_o amorous_a sigh_n as_o god_n shall_v then_o inspire_v thou_o the_o last_o be_v resolution_n wherein_o the_o soul_n bewail_v her_o poverty_n dulness_n &_o imperfection_n which_o may_v happy_o appear_v then_o in_o
exercise_n reflect_v serious_o on_o every_o instruction_n how_o thou_o may_v reduce_v they_o to_o practice_n the_o other_o hour_n till_o seven_o admit_v of_o no_o set_v rule_n for_o distribution_n of_o they_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o different_a time_n of_o evening_n prayer_n &_o refection_n according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o several_a family_n however_o one_o hour_n be_v to_o be_v spend_v in_o pray_v vocal_o make_v aspiration_n &_o review_v of_o that_o day_n task_n for_o confirmation_n of_o good_a purpose_n another_o in_o say_v evensong_n the_o last_o in_o take_v thy_o evening_n repast_n thanksgiving_n for_o benefit_n &_o pray_v for_o benefactor_n live_v &_o dead_a from_o seven_o take_v some_o easy_a divertisement_n whereby_o to_o release_v thy_o thought_n by_o walk_v or_o use_v some_o moderate_a corporal_a exercise_n for_o the_o space_n of_o half_a a_o hour_n then_o serious_o examine_v thy_o conscience_n how_o thou_o have_v employ_v that_o day_n beg_v pardon_n for_o defect_n make_v thy_o cross_n read_v over_o the_o first_o point_n of_o thy_o next_o day_n exercise_n &_o go_v to_o bed_n say_v with_o the_o royal_a prophet_n in_o peace_n i_o will_v sleep_v &_o rest_n because_o thou_o o_o lord_n have_v singular_o settle_v i_o in_o hope_n this_o be_v all_o philothea_n i_o have_v to_o advise_v thou_o complayn_n not_o of_o my_o over-longnesse_a the_o labour_n be_v i_o &_o my_o aim_n thy_o benefit_n i_o have_v according_a to_o my_o ability_n prescribe_v thou_o a_o method_n of_o practise_v holy_a solitude_n according_a to_o the_o knowledge_n gain_v from_o skilful_a master_n in_o that_o art_n &_o what_o use_n &_o experience_n have_v teach_v i_o to_o be_v most_o profitable_a when_o custom_n &_o experience_n shall_v show_v thou_o a_o better_a form_n fear_v not_o to_o use_v it_o in_o god_n name_n for_o divers_a path_n lead_v to_o the_o same_o place_n &_o though_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v but_o one_o yet_o there_o be_v diversity_n of_o grace_n use_v this_o way_n till_o thou_o meet_v with_o a_o better_a and_o pray_v for_o thy_o well_o willer_n farewell_n philothea_n pilgrimage_n to_o perfection_n describe_v in_o a_o practice_n of_o ten_o day_n solitude_n first_o day_n voyage_n inducement_n to_o solitude_n the_o morning_n exercise_n first_o point_n dignity_n of_o solitude_n consideration_n consider_v that_o no_o other_o earthly_a condition_n can_v equal_v the_o happiness_n which_o may_v be_v attain_v by_o mean_n of_o retirement_n it_o be_v a_o heaven_n upon_o earth_n separate_a we_o from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n &_o content_v with_o its_o own_o tranquillity_n &_o delight_n such_o it_o will_v be_v to_o we_o if_o we_o can_v alienate_v our_o heart_n from_o worldly_a care_n &_o creature_n &_o walk_v innocent_o with_o our_o bless_a god_n in_o the_o observance_n of_o his_o commandment_n &_o the_o performance_n of_o solitary_a duty_n it_o be_v the_o school_n of_o all_o christian_a knowledge_n &_o virtue_n wherein_o we_o may_v learn_v that_o our_o body_n be_v compose_v of_o disagree_a element_n ever_o tend_v to_o a_o dissolution_n that_o our_o dear_a friend_n may_v be_v take_v from_o we_o by_o untimely_a death_n &_o therefore_o no_o last_a hope_n to_o be_v place_v in_o they_o that_o our_o nature_n be_v easy_o lead_v away_o with_o the_o allurement_n of_o visible_a object_n whereas_o god_n only_o can_v fill_v the_o long_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o a_o word_n that_o all_o those_o thing_n wherein_o poor_a man_n be_v so_o miserable_o turmoild_v be_v a_o mere_a vexation_n &_o vanity_n &_o hinder_v we_o from_o listen_v to_o those_o delicious_a whisper_n which_o our_o belove_a desire_n to_o impart_v to_o our_o affectionate_a soul_n it_o be_v also_o a_o sanctuary_n of_o the_o ever_o bless_a deity_n for_o although_o our_o immense_a god_n fill_v all_o place_n by_o a_o infinite_a diffusion_n of_o his_o essence_n yet_o he_o be_v special_o in_o those_o which_o be_v segregated_a to_o his_o contemplation_n &_o worship_n where_o he_o open_v the_o rich_a treasury_n of_o his_o love_n &_o bounty_n &_o reveal_v his_o will_n to_o his_o servant_n in_o silent_a &_o secret_a conference_n with_o they_o since_o therefore_o philothea_n thy_o beloved_n have_v draw_v thou_o hither_o here_o to_o parley_v with_o thy_o heart_n to_o disclose_v the_o hide_a path_n of_o his_o aid_v &_o comfort_v grace_n &_o to_o take_v up_o his_o lodging_n in_o thy_o soul_n see_v that_o nothing_o remain_v therein_o offensive_a to_o his_o will_n which_o may_v blunt_v the_o edge_n of_o thy_o conceive_a affection_n to_o piety_n or_o darken_v thy_o spiritual_a eye_n from_o behold_v his_o all-sufficing_a beauty_n for_o only_o the_o clean_a of_o heart_n may_v see_v god_n &_o rejoice_v in_o the_o plenty_n of_o his_o holy_a house_n affection_n oh_o how_o belove_a be_v the_o tabernacle_n of_o my_o god_n better_a be_v one_o day_n there_o then_o thousand_o in_o the_o court_n of_o sinner_n who_o love_v not_o to_o think_v on_o their_o creator_n o_o jerusalem_n o_o sweet_a vision_n of_o peace_n o_o happy_a desert_n o_o sacred_a mansion_n of_o heaven_n aspire_a soul_n be_v thou_o ever_o the_o begin_n of_o my_o joy_n i_o know_v &_o acknowledge_v o_o my_o god_n my_o only_o refuge_n &_o comfort_n that_o there_o be_v no_o pleasant_a peace_n no_o save_a knowledge_n no_o true_a repose_n but_o in_o thou_o that_o all_o thing_n be_v vanity_n beneath_o thou_o but_o even_o that_o vanity_n can_v i_o despise_v without_o thou_o therefore_o thou_o o_o god_n how_o long_o resolution_n hence_o forth_o my_o solitude_n shall_v be_v my_o beatitude_n my_o eden_n my_o heaven_n &_o the_o world_n shall_v keep_v what_o ever_o it_o call_v its_o own_o with_o all_o the_o peril_n discontent_n &_o misery_n that_o belong_v to_o it_o &_o if_o my_o soul_n be_v at_o any_o time_n in_o distress_n i_o will_v stay_v my_o sorrow_n with_o the_o hope_n of_o those_o true_a consolation_n which_o my_o divine_a lord_n have_v promise_v to_o those_o who_o he_o lead_v thither_o and_o since_o i_o may_v there_o understand_v all_o divine_a truth_n &_o obtain_v all_o help_a virtue_n &_o grace_n i_o will_v turn_v my_o heart_n from_o creature_n that_o i_o may_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o god_n divine_a spirit_n learn_v the_o way_n of_o perfection_n and_o i_o will_v careful_o cleanse_v my_o soul_n from_o all_o sin_n &_o affection_n to_o forbid_a content_n whereby_o it_o have_v hitherto_o be_v hinder_v to_o walk_v to_o &_o with_o god_n &_o to_o discover_v the_o depth_n of_o his_o greatness_n &_o goodness_n to_o i_o nor_o will_v i_o loose_a the_o precious_a time_n which_o god_n have_v allow_v i_o wherein_o to_o work_v my_o salvation_n &_o converse_v with_o he_o in_o holy_a solitude_n to_o thou_o o_o lord_n will_v i_o reveal_v the_o secret_n of_o my_o heart_n in_o thou_o will_v i_o trust_v &_o i_o shall_v not_o be_v ashamed_a because_o thou_o be_v a_o strong_a helper_n second_o point_n innocence_n of_o solitude_n consideration_n consider_v that_o solitude_n be_v more_o innocent_a &_o holy_a than_o that_o course_n of_o life_n that_o spend_v its_o self_n in_o converse_v with_o creature_n be_v exempt_a from_o manifold_a occasion_n of_o offend_v or_o be_v offend_v by_o other_o from_o snare_n scandal_n &_o irksome_a turmoil_n which_o be_v apt_a to_o shake_v our_o strong_a resolution_n to_o piety_n &_o destroy_v the_o evenness_n of_o our_o heart_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o our_o usual_a christian_a duty_n again_o our_o conversation_n with_o worldly_a person_n oft_o engage_v our_o heart_n in_o irregular_a affection_n &_o solicitude_n we_o be_v natural_o over-prone_a to_o adhere_v to_o sensible_a satisfaction_n &_o too_o feeble_a &_o weak_a in_o resist_v their_o flatter_a allurement_n &_o therefore_o be_v thereby_o put_v in_o hazard_n of_o lose_v our_o best_a hope_n whereas_o solitude_n withdraw_v our_o thought_n from_o such_o occasion_n of_o sin_n give_v we_o mean_n of_o purchase_v that_o blessedness_n here_o which_o abroad_o we_o endanger_v wherefore_o the_o now_o glorious_a saint_n who_o life_n shall_v be_v our_o pattern_n arrive_v to_o the_o joy_n they_o be_v possess_v of_o by_o withdraw_v from_o worldly_a conversation_n &_o confine_v themselves_o to_o innocent_a solitude_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o abandon_v superfluous_a conversation_n with_o earthly_a creature_n we_o begin_v to_o be_v conversant_a with_o god_n &_o in_o some_o degree_n approach_v to_o &_o imitate_v the_o innocent_a &_o peaceful_a life_n of_o the_o already_o glorified_a angel_n in_o heaven_n their_o life_n &_o conversation_n must_v needs_o be_v heavenly_a who_o disdain_v earthly_a blessing_n thirst_v after_o those_o of_o the_o saint_n by_o know_v love_a &_o enjoy_v he_o who_o alone_o can_v make_v they_o happy_a what_o great_a happiness_n my_o philothea_n then_o be_v sequester_v from_o vain_a &_o tyresome_a creature_n even_o amid_o the_o toil_n of_o our_o unhappy_a mortality_n to_o enjoy_v
origin_n thou_o be_v but_o a_o little_a matter_n of_o corruption_n the_o great_a the_o wise_a the_o beautiful_a among_o we_o be_v of_o no_o better_a mould_n in_o our_o birth_n we_o enter_v the_o world_n with_o many_o grievous_a gripe_n &_o groan_n of_o our_o parent_n naked_a blind_a poor_a unable_a to_o help_v our-selve_n &_o ignorant_a how_o we_o come_v hither_o &_o how_o &_o whither_o to_o depart_v in_o our_o life_n we_o be_v expose_v to_o innumerable_a calamity_n of_o sickness_n poverty_n war_n calumny_n with_o much_o pain_n must_v conserve_v our_o life_n &_o health_n with_o fruit_n of_o the_o earth_n &_o flesh_n of_o beast_n and_o at_o last_o in_o our_o death_n dissolve_v into_o languor_n sigh_n &_o tear_n be_v hurry_v forth_o from_o the_o eye_n &_o thought_n of_o our_o dear_a friend_n &_o lay_v under_o ground_n there_o to_o rot_v into_o our_o original_a dust_n &_o ash_n this_o be_v the_o pedigree_n of_o the_o best_a of_o we_o as_o to_o our_o outward_a man_n so_o that_o we_o may_v just_o cry_v out_o what_o be_v man_n o_o god_n that_o thou_o be_v mindful_a of_o he_o if_o god_n be_v mindful_a of_o our_o nothing_n sure_o we_o shall_v have_v a_o continual_a remembrance_n of_o it_o lest_o the_o sweetness_n of_o divine_a solitude_n &_o the_o please_a entertainment_n we_o may_v therein_o experience_n between_o our_o soul_n &_o god_n puff_v we_o up_o with_o affection_n of_o vain_a glory_n affection_n unhappy_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o will_v deliver_v i_o from_o this_o body_n of_o death_n i_o be_o bear_v poor_a &_o miserable_a live_v amid_o cross_n &_o sorrow_n must_v die_v with_o groan_n &_o gasp_n &_o shall_v rot_v into_o my_o mother_n earth_n ah_o my_o soul_n since_o the_o one_o half_a of_o man_n be_v so_o vile_a be_v thou_o still_o humble_a lucifer_n pride_n have_v some_o plea_n if_o he_o be_v proud_a he_o be_v immortal_a also_o but_o man_n can_v find_v nothing_o in_o himself_o but_o filth_n weakness_n &_o corruption_n shall_v i_o then_o presume_v to_o speak_v to_o god_n who_o be_o but_o dust_n &_o ash_n alas_o shall_v i_o say_v i_o be_o better_a the_o grave_n &_o carcase_n of_o the_o monarch_n &_o beauty_n of_o the_o world_n will_v bear_v witness_n against_o i_o resolution_n in_o what_o ever_o degree_n of_o comtemplation_n or_o condition_n of_o life_n i_o be_o i_o will_v ever_o be_v mindful_a of_o my_o original_a nothing_o &_o the_o miserable_a progress_n i_o must_v make_v through_o want_n disease_n &_o tribulation_n of_o all_o sort_n from_o the_o womb_n to_o the_o tomb_n &_o i_o will_v with_o holy_a job_n say_v to_o rottenness_n thou_o be_v my_o father_n my_o mother_n &_o sister_n to_o the_o worm_n this_o be_v my_o kindred_n &_o my_o companion_n be_v a_o multitude_n of_o too_o well_o know_v infirmity_n therefore_o god_n greatness_n &_o my_o own_o vileness_n shall_v be_v the_o balance_n of_o my_o thought_n &_o i_o will_v hope_v that_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n will_v one_o day_n raise_v the_o needy_a from_o the_o dust_n of_o the_o earth_n &_o lift_v the_o poor_a from_o the_o dung_n &_o place_v they_o among_o the_o prince_n of_o his_o people_n second_o point_n wretchnesse_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o sin_n consideration_n consider_v that_o if_o thou_o be_v nothing_o but_o corruption_n &_o rottenness_n in_o thy_o body_n thy_o soul_n defile_v by_o sin_n render_v thou_o worse_o than_o nothing_o for_o by_o sin_n we_o become_v the_o unhappy_a vessel_n of_o god_n heavy_a wrath_n he_o spare_v not_o the_o angel_n in_o their_o sin_n but_o deprive_v they_o of_o all_o their_o original_a endowment_n of_o nature_n &_o grace_n banish_v they_o for_o ever_o from_o his_o blissful_a presence_n &_o confine_v they_o to_o the_o dreadful_a prison_n &_o torment_n of_o hell_n nor_o will_v he_o spare_v we_o but_o if_o we_o be_v partner_n in_o their_o crime_n he_o will_v also_o make_v we_o companion_n in_o their_o bitter_a suffering_n evident_a in_o our_o first_o parent_n who_o for_o one_o sin_n he_o deprive_v of_o the_o innocent_a state_n of_o their_o original_a creation_n expel_v they_o the_o earthly_a paradise_n &_o condemn_v they_o &_o we_o to_o mourn_v out_o this_o wretched_a life_n amid_o labour_n sweat_n &_o innumerable_a misery_n as_o chastiser_n of_o our_o guilt_n we_o also_o through_o sin_n incur_v a_o insufferable_a servitude_n under_o the_o tyranny_n of_o satan_n he_o covet_v not_o either_o honour_n wealth_n or_o pleasure_n but_o as_o to_o our_o lord_n jesus_n in_o the_o wilderness_n so_o to_o we_o still_o offers_z all_o these_o if_o we_o will_v do_v homage_n &_o adore_v he_o which_o we_o no_o soon_o do_v but_o we_o become_v slave_n to_o he_o he_o continual_o assault_v we_o with_o manifold_a grievous_a temptation_n use_v all_o creature_n even_o our_o own_o flesh_n &_o blood_n &_o passion_n of_o sensuality_n to_o work_v our_o overthrow_n still_o ply_v we_o with_o seduce_a suggestion_n give_v no_o respite_n from_o his_o snare_n &_o deceit_n &_o fill_v our_o heart_n with_o distrust_n of_o mercy_n for_o past_a sin_n despair_n of_o delay_v help_n from_o heaven_n &_o doubt_n of_o a_o final_a perseverance_n in_o our_o duty_n under_o so_o heavy_a a_o weight_n of_o tribulation_n he_o raise_v against_o we_o likewise_o thereby_o we_o lose_v god_n gracious_a presence_n &_o fatherly_a providence_n over_o we_o our_o right_a &_o part_n in_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n bitter_a &_o save_a passion_n the_o friendship_n &_o familiarity_n of_o god_n comfort_v spirit_n all_o grace_n gift_n fruit_n &_o blessing_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o peace_n &_o security_n of_o our_o conscience_n our_o communion_n in_o the_o sacrifice_n prayer_n &_o good_a deed_n of_o the_o faithful_a &_o our_o claym_v to_o our_o heavenly_a inheritance_n and_o more_o over_o we_o defile_v in_o our_o soul_n the_o beautiful_a image_n of_o god_n be_v raze_v forth_o the_o book_n of_o life_n be_v deprive_v of_o the_o protection_n &_o safeguard_n of_o the_o bless_a angel_n contract_v grievous_a remorse_n of_o conscience_n pronesse_n to_o great_a sin_n &_o a_o guilt_n of_o hell_n fire_n unless_o with_o a_o repentant_a heart_n we_o by_o confession_n confusible_o discover_v our_o sin_n know_v to_o god_n &_o our_o soul_n only_o &_o by_o corporal_a affliction_n endeavour_v to_o appease_v god_n just_a indignation_n against_o we_o for_o they_o this_o be_v enough_o to_o humble_v the_o best_a of_o we_o if_o we_o have_v any_o feel_n of_o our_o sinful_a state_n affection_n ah_o my_o god_n who_o can_v hide_v from_o thy_o all-seeing_a eye_n the_o abyss_n of_o wretchedness_n wherein_o my_o sin_n have_v already_o sink_v i_o alas_o i_o be_o become_v the_o unhappy_a object_n of_o thy_o just_a wrath_n the_o woeful_a servant_n of_o rebellious_a satan_n deprive_v of_o thy_o heal_a grace_n &_o expose_v to_o innumerable_a misery_n hold_v thy_o hand_n o_o my_o almighty_a lord_n &_o rebuke_v i_o not_o in_o thy_o fury_n for_o shall_v thou_o observe_v iniquity_n who_o can_v sustain_v the_o heaviness_n of_o thy_o displeasure_n i_o will_v therefore_o confess_v unto_o thou_o my_o unworthiness_n to_o appear_v before_o thou_o &_o to_o enjoy_v even_o the_o common_a blessing_n of_o heaven_n &_o earth_n which_o i_o have_v so_o oft_o vain_o abuse_v to_o satisfy_v my_o sinful_a passion_n &_o that_o i_o ought_v not_o to_o hope_v for_o any_o part_n in_o thy_o blessing_n of_o glory_n but_o thou_o o_o god_n have_v mercy_n on_o thousand_o &_o will_v comfort_v the_o weak_a &_o afflict_a &_o if_o thou_o do_v humble_v we_o it_o be_v that_o we_o may_v thereby_o learn_v that_o from_o thou_o be_v our_o justification_n resolution_n i_o purpose_v henceforth_o to_o have_v ever_o before_o my_o eye_n my_o sinful_a condition_n whereby_o i_o have_v render_v myself_o thus_o vile_a &_o abominable_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n &_o his_o holy_a angel_n subject_n to_o the_o insolence_n of_o satan_n &_o my_o disorderly_a passion_n &_o brand_v with_o the_o infamous_a mark_n of_o one_o banish_v from_o the_o face_n of_o god_n i_o will_v also_o acknowledge_v myself_o guilty_a of_o the_o innocent_a death_n of_o my_o saviour_n jesus_n &_o not_o to_o deserve_v from_o he_o the_o least_o favour_n either_o of_o his_o justify_v grace_n or_o all-comforting_a glory_n but_o that_o i_o have_v rather_o incur_v a_o just_a debt_n of_o everlasting_a ignominy_n &_o confusion_n and_o therefore_o however_o it_o shall_v please_v god_n to_o reveal_v himself_o to_o i_o in_o this_o my_o solitude_n i_o will_v accept_v of_o it_o as_o his_o most_o gracious_a gift_n and_o the_o more_o he_o exalt_v i_o the_o more_o will_v i_o humble_v myself_o through_o the_o consideration_n of_o my_o sinful_a state_n whereby_o i_o have_v provoke_v his_o wrath_n against_o i_o third_z point_n ignorance_n of_o our_o future_a state_n consideration_n consider_v that_o although_o perhaps_o thou_o oft_o
feel_v in_o thy_o soul_n during_o thy_o holy_a retirement_n or_o at_o other_o time_n some_o delicious_a whisper_n of_o thy_o belove_a espouse_v yet_o be_v thou_o whole_o ignorant_a what_o will_v befall_v thou_o the_o next_o moment_n how_o long_o or_o short_a thy_o life_n will_v be_v when_o where_o by_o what_o disease_n or_o misfortune_n death_n will_v seize_v upon_o thou_o &_o in_o what_o condition_n of_o grace_n or_o sin_n it_o will_v summon_v thou_o before_o god_n bar_n thereto_o hear_v the_o sentence_n then_o to_o pass_v over_o thou_o &_o consequent_o that_o as_o long_o as_o thou_o be_v in_o this_o life_n thou_o be_v never_o certain_o assure_v of_o thy_o eternal_a salvation_n this_o aught_o to_o be_v a_o strong_a motive_n of_o humiliation_n unto_o thou_o almighty_a god_n have_v from_o all_o eternity_n choose_v some_o to_o be_v heir_n of_o his_o glory_n permit_v other_o yet_o do_v not_o any_o one_o know_v to_o what_o rank_n he_o belong_v when_o or_o by_o what_o mean_v he_o shall_v come_v thither_o till_o it_o please_v god_n to_o cite_v we_o forth_o this_o world_n &_o assume_v we_o to_o his_o heavenly_a paradise_n which_o evident_o lay_v open_v our_o great_a ignorance_n &_o prove_v our_o unchangeable_a dependence_n on_o the_o hide_a disposition_n of_o the_o divine_a will_n be_v not_o this_o enough_o to_o humble_v the_o haughty_a spirit_n in_o the_o world_n wherefore_o in_o whatsoever_o degree_n of_o contemplation_n virtue_n or_o spiritual_a greatness_n thou_o be_v thou_o must_v humble_o acknowledge_v thy_o universal_a dependence_n on_o god_n gracious_a inspiration_n &_o help_n and_o that_o therefore_o thou_o ought_v not_o to_o judge_v any_o one_o who_o through_o god_n permission_n thou_o may_v see_v fall_n into_o some_o abominable_a sin_n be_v thou_o be_v not_o thyself_o assure_v how_o long_o thou_o shall_v stand_v in_o thy_o duty_n to_o god_n or_o how_o soon_o that_o person_n may_v arise_v again_o through_o god_n grace_n aid_v to_o a_o timely_a &_o profitable_a repentance_n have_v a_o care_n therefore_o philothea_n thou_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n work_v thy_o salvation_n with_o a_o filial_a &_o humble_a fear_n reflect_v continual_o on_o thy_o own_o nothing_o &_o the_o straight_a dependence_n thou_o have_v on_o the_o grace_n &_o mercy_n of_o jesus_n christ_n who_o have_v redeem_v thou_o from_o the_o tyranny_n of_o satan_n &_o make_v thou_o capable_a of_o life_n everlasting_a with_o himself_o will_v not_o be_v want_v to_o the_o complete_n that_o great_a work_n of_o thy_o eternal_a salvation_n if_o thou_o do_v humble_o trust_v in_o he_o say_v then_o with_o a_o lively_a faith_n in_o thou_o o_o lord_n have_v i_o hope_v &_o i_o be_o not_o confound_v i_o have_v put_v my_o trust_n in_o thou_o &_o have_v find_v help_n affection_n ah_o my_o soul_n wherein_o can_v thou_o now_o glory_n be_v thou_o place_v in_o the_o family_n of_o god_n servant_n have_v many_o good_a notion_n &_o divine_a motion_n in_o thy_o breast_n do_v thou_o through_o some_o strong_a help_n of_o heavenly_a grace_n delightful_o perform_v hard_a &_o painful_a duty_n all_o this_o be_v very_o good_a but_o alas_o thou_o know_v not_o how_o long_o this_o will_v endure_v whether_o for_o a_o year_n or_o a_o day_n or_o even_o the_o next_o moment_n whether_o thou_o be_v confirm_v in_o grace_n list_v among_o the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_n or_o worthy_a of_o love_n or_o hatred_n thou_o know_v nothing_o of_o all_o this_o even_o so_o it_o be_v for_o thou_o o_o my_o god_n be_v a_o most_o glorious_a &_o pure_a father_n of_o spirit_n &_o will_v still_o be_v worship_v in_o fear_n &_o tremble_a however_o although_o thou_o shall_v persecute_v i_o till_o death_n i_o will_v trust_v in_o thou_o even_o at_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n i_o will_v not_o abandon_v my_o hope_n in_o thy_o mercy_n resolution_n i_o will_v cast_v myself_o into_o the_o sea_n of_o god_n abundant_a mercy_n &_o therein_o fix_v the_o auchor_n of_o my_o hope_n rely_v firm_o on_o his_o undeceive_a promise_n &_o save_v help_n of_o grace_n &_o therefore_o i_o will_v annihilate_v myself_o in_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o holy_a decree_n live_v in_o perpetual_a fear_n of_o his_o judgement_n concern_v i_o nor_o will_v i_o only_o become_v humble_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n who_o know_v the_o vileness_n of_o my_o body_n &_o wretchedness_n of_o my_o soul_n with_o whatever_o shall_v befall_v either_o for_o time_n &_o eternity_n but_o i_o will_v also_o willing_o become_v contemptible_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o all_o creature_n content_v myself_o with_o the_o low_a place_n mean_a fare_n &_o vile_a employment_n account_v myself_o the_o unworthy_a of_o all_o &_o will_v ever_o say_v with_o the_o holy_a prophet_n i_o be_o a_o worm_n &_o not_o a_o man_n the_o outcast_n of_o man_n &_o the_o offcast_n of_o the_o vulgar_a the_o evening_n exercise_n first_o discourse_n our_o weakness_n to_o good_a if_o thou_o desire_v philothea_n to_o enter_v the_o depth_n of_o thy_o own_o nothing_o thou_o must_v make_v yet_o a_o further_a search_n into_o the_o motive_n of_o humble_v thyself_o before_o god_n wherefore_o have_v now_o wade_v through_o the_o vast_a sea_n of_o thy_o vileness_n in_o body_n wretchedness_n in_o soul_n &_o wonderful_a ignorance_n of_o thy_o future_a state_n of_o life_n &_o happiness_n discourse_v further_o on_o thy_o natural_a weakness_n to_o perform_v good_a &_o upright_a action_n ever_o since_o through_o our_o disobedience_n to_o god_n holy_a commandment_n we_o depart_v from_o his_o temple_n &_o sanctify_v city_n of_o jerusalem_n &_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o spiritual_a murderer_n we_o have_v have_v many_o deep_a wound_n and_o deadly_a sore_n in_o our_o soul_n whereof_o though_o some_o have_v beme_fw-mi oft_o cure_v by_o christ_n heal_a sacrament_n yet_o do_v they_o often_o break_v out_o &_o fester_v through_o the_o disorder_n of_o our_o sinful_a life_n other_o remain_v for_o ever_o uncurable_a during_o this_o mortal_a life_n whereby_o we_o be_v whole_o unable_a without_o the_o perpetual_a help_n of_o our_o charitable_a samaritan_n jesus_n christ_n either_o to_o discern_v the_o way_n that_o lead_v back_o to_o god_n or_o secure_o to_o walk_v towards_o he_o in_o this_o our_o pilgrimage_n to_o heavenly_a perfection_n our_o manifold_a doubt_n mistake_n &_o error_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o divine_a &_o even_o moral_a truth_n &_o action_n our_o passionate_a affection_n to_o present_v &_o sensible_a delight_n the_o variety_n &_o distraction_n of_o our_o fade_a &_o slippery_a life_n &_o the_o excellency_n of_o god_n way_n &_o those_o thought_n &_o work_n whereby_o we_o walk_v in_o they_o &_o purchase_v a_o blessedness_n which_o he_o alone_o can_v bestow_v on_o we_o show_v evident_o that_o god_n live_v in_o a_o unaccessible_a light_n not_o to_o be_v view_v with_o a_o eye_n not_o yet_o cleanse_v by_o divine_a faith_n nor_o to_o be_v aspire_v unto_o without_o that_o hope_n which_o he_o only_o can_v inspire_v into_o we_o nor_o in_o the_o least_o degree_n to_o be_v purchase_v or_o pretend_v to_o without_o the_o special_a gift_n of_o inherent_a sanctity_n &_o other_o supernatural_a help_n of_o clear_n light_n &_o cooperate_a grace_n bestow_v bountiful_o on_o we_o so_o that_o we_o can_v neither_o do_v any_o thing_n worthy_a his_o acceptation_n or_o think_v on_o he_o according_a to_o his_o majesty_n or_o even_o say_v one_o word_n of_o he_o as_o we_o ought_v in_o order_n to_o our_o everlasting_a happiness_n without_o his_o special_a inspiration_n conduct_v &_o assistance_n wherefore_o as_o thou_o be_v by_o nature_n a_o mere_a nothing_o &_o by_o sin_n worse_o than_o nothing_o so_o without_o the_o liberal_a gift_n of_o god_n aid_v grace_n thou_o can_v do_v nothing_o if_o then_o thou_o perhaps_o be_v sometime_o raise_v up_o in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o god_n his_o glory_n &_o those_o allure_a trace_n whereby_o he_o lead_v his_o servant_n to_o the_o love_n of_o eternal_a good_a thing_n yet_o may_v thou_o not_o take_v complacence_n therein_o without_o a_o humble_a submission_n to_o god_n unknown_a will_n towards_o thou_o or_o esteem_v thyself_o by_o they_o to_o be_v in_o a_o settle_a condition_n of_o holiness_n for_o if_o thou_o be_v as_o easy_o thou_o may_v be_v deprive_v of_o those_o light_n of_o grace_n thou_o now_o have_v thy_o soul_n will_v become_v as_o dark_a &_o thy_o action_n as_o imperfect_a as_o any_o other_o these_o divine_a help_n so_o necessary_a to_o we_o and_o so_o much_o above_o our_o reach_n ought_v profound_o to_o humble_v we_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n who_o we_o must_v ever_o worship_v as_o a_o liberal_a &_o free_a giver_n as_o oft_o as_o we_o receive_v any_o favour_n from_o he_o still_o remember_v that_o the_o apostate_n angel_n &_o our_o first_o parent_n lose_v themselves_o by_o a_o complacence_n in_o their_o own_o natural_a
god_n as_o a_o sheep_n that_o be_v lose_v seek_v thou_o thy_o servant_n &_o i_o will_v not_o be_v unmindful_a of_o thy_o commandment_n resolution_n i_o will_v not_o only_o henceforth_o mortify_v the_o sense_n of_o my_o body_n but_o the_o passion_n of_o my_o mind_n also_o that_o with_o my_o heart_n as_o well_o as_o lip_n i_o may_v honour_v &_o glorify_v my_o saviour_n and_o i_o will_v strict_o examine_v every_o motion_n of_o my_o sensual_a appetite_n that_o i_o may_v discover_v its_o malady_n order_n its_o affection_n &_o prevent_v those_o disquiet_n which_o my_o passion_n have_v hitherto_o raise_v in_o i_o that_o my_o belove_a may_v say_v to_o i_o thou_o be_v a_o garden_n of_o delight_n enclose_v a_o spring_n shut_v up_o &_o a_o fountain_n seal_v third_z point_n mortification_n the_o property_n of_o a_o christian_n consideration_n consider_v that_o by_o mean_n of_o this_o mortification_n of_o our_o sense_n &_o passion_n we_o be_v place_v in_o a_o degree_n of_o perfection_n above_o beast_n who_o be_v void_a of_o reason_n seek_v their_o content_n &_o happiness_n in_o sensual_a delight_n &_o therefore_o those_o carnal_a heart_n which_o still_o wallow_v in_o the_o puddle_n of_o earthly_a pleasure_n follow_v the_o allurement_n of_o sensible_a object_n &_o the_o disorder_n of_o their_o own_o passion_n degenerate_a into_o beast_n whereas_o mortification_n be_v the_o special_a badge_n &_o property_n of_o a_o true_a christian_a man_n who_o living_n according_a to_o reason_n &_o grace_n crucify_v the_o flesh_n with_o its_o concupiscence_n &_o thereby_o belong_v to_o christ_n but_o especial_o this_o perfect_a mortification_n of_o our_o sensual_a appetite_n be_v the_o proper_a companion_n &_o true_a signet_n of_o the_o solitary_a soul_n who_o retire_v from_o worldly_a conversation_n oblige_v herself_o to_o imitate_v jesus_n christ_n in_o his_o suffering_n &_o to_o follow_v the_o step_n of_o the_o most_o zealous_a christian_n of_o all_o age_n by_o resist_v the_o irregular_a desire_n of_o sensuality_n that_o the_o flesh_n may_v obey_v the_o spirit_n &_o our_o spirit_n the_o will_n of_o god_n for_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o whole_a man._n if_o therefore_o philothea_n thy_o sense_n &_o passion_n have_v hitherto_o be_v loose_o keep_v &_o stray_v after_o inordinate_a satisfaction_n now_o thou_o must_v have_v a_o watchful_a care_n over_o they_o &_o fasten_v they_o to_o the_o cross_n of_o mortification_n prompt_o joyful_o frequent_o perseverent_o &_o universal_o that_o as_o all_o have_v be_v minister_n of_o uncleanness_n they_o may_v also_o be_v promoter_n of_o piety_n thy_o eye_n in_o contemplate_v thy_o crucify_a redeemer_n &_o read_v holy_a book_n thy_o ear_n in_o harken_v to_o devout_a sermon_n thy_o tongue_n in_o prayer_n &_o pious_a discourse_n thy_o hand_n in_o perform_v good_a work_n thy_o foot_n in_o visit_v holy_a place_n &_o thy_o whole_a body_n in_o bear_v patient_o the_o misery_n of_o this_o mortal_a life_n &_o undergo_a act_n of_o penance_n for_o satisfaction_n of_o past_a &_o prevention_n of_o new_a sin_n so_o contrary_a to_o thy_o christian_a profession_n &_o the_o great_a design_n now_o in_o hand_n affection_n i_o acknowledge_v my_o dear_a lord_n that_o through_o thy_o precious_a blood_n i_o be_o regenerate_v from_o my_o sinful_a state_n sanctify_v to_o christian_a &_o holy_a duty_n &_o strong_o fortify_v against_o the_o corrupt_a inclination_n of_o my_o own_o sensuality_n &_o outward_a charm_n of_o earthly_a delight_n &_o yet_o alas_o how_o oft_o how_o vile_o have_v i_o transgress_v thy_o command_n &_o my_o own_o promise_n to_o be_v one_o of_o thy_o flock_n to_o become_v a_o mortify_a christian_a to_o abandon_v all_o worldly_a content_n &_o suffer_v whatever_o austerity_n &_o tribulation_n rather_o than_o to_o loose_v any_o part_n in_o thou_o &_o thy_o bless_a kingdom_n prepare_v for_o i_o but_o thou_o o_o lord_n be_v sweet_a &_o mild_a &_o abound_a with_o mercy_n have_v mercy_n upon_o i_o o_o god_n have_v mercy_n upon_o i_o for_o my_o soul_n have_v trust_v in_o thou_o resolution_n i_o will_v take_v a_o special_a view_n of_o all_o abuse_v commit_v through_o immortification_n of_o my_o sense_n &_o passion_n &_o consider_v all_o my_o evil_a inclination_n where_o at_o what_o time_n towards_o what_o object_n i_o be_o apt_a to_o comply_v with_o they_o &_o i_o will_v wary_o watch_v over_o all_o my_o way_n prevent_v danger_n &_o undertake_v such_o mortification_n as_o may_v keep_v my_o heart_n close_o to_o my_o god_n &_o steadfast_a in_o the_o observance_n of_o his_o holy_a commandment_n strengthen_v i_o o_o lord_n with_o thy_o grace_n &_o my_o appetite_n shall_v be_v subject_a to_o i_o &_o i_o shall_v have_v power_n over_o it_o the_o evening_n exercise_n first_o discourse_n damage_n incur_v by_o immortification_n as_o the_o love_n of_o god_n join_v with_o self_n contempt_n build_v up_o the_o city_n of_o god_n in_o we_o so_o self_n love_n reach_v to_o the_o contempt_n of_o god_n holy_a commandment_n that_o of_o satan_n this_o self-love_n be_v the_o first_o mover_n in_o the_o sphere_n of_o the_o unmortify_v soul_n of_o all_o the_o passion_n of_o our_o sensuality_n whence_o proceed_v all_o those_o calamity_n of_o sinful_a desire_n &_o the_o follow_a disorder_n which_o restles_o war_n against_o god_n spirit_n in_o we_o &_o heavy_o press_v we_o down_o even_o against_o our_o will_n to_o those_o misery_n we_o now_o groan_v under_o &_o long_o to_o be_v free_v from_o our_o first_o parent_n comply_v with_o a_o immoderate_a appetite_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o one_o forbid_a tree_n among_o so_o many_o thousand_o excellent_a one_o allow_v by_o almighty_a god_n for_o their_o use_n &_o pleasure_n notwithstanding_o god_n severe_a prohibition_n under_o pain_n of_o his_o high_a dispeasure_n a_o tedious_a life_n forrowfull_a death_n &_o all_o those_o penalty_n which_o daily_o draw_v so_o many_o tear_n from_o our_o eye_n &_o sigh_n from_o our_o heart_n have_v bring_v god_n heavy_a wrath_n upon_o themselves_o &_o we_o &_o all_o those_o rebellion_n of_o sensuality_n error_n in_o understanding_n difficulty_n in_o obey_v &_o that_o torrent_n of_o care_n &_o sorrow_n which_o continual_o afflict_v our_o spirit_n &_o yet_o we_o still_o add_v to_o our_o misery_n by_o a_o over-ready_a side_v with_o these_o our_o unruly_a passion_n &_o appetite_n what_o grater_n mishap_n can_v befall_v a_o sovereign_a prince_n then_o to_o be_v depose_v his_o throne_n spoil_v of_o his_o royal_a prerogative_n &_o dignity_n &_o to_o be_v banish_v forth_o his_o own_o dominion_n thus_o it_o be_v with_o we_o now_o each_o one_o of_o we_o have_v a_o peaceful_a kingdom_n within_o himself_o &_o be_v supreme_a lord_n therein_o in_o his_o original_a state_n no_o soon_o do_v self_n love_n creep_v in_o to_o our_o heart_n &_o seduce_v the_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o prefer_v sensuality_n to_o reason_n &_o justice_n but_o god_n permit_v our_o passion_n to_o overrun_v we_o &_o tyrannize_v within_o we_o whence_o arise_v those_o variety_n of_o concupiscence_n boiling_n &_o rouling_n of_o our_o affection_n love_n &_o hatred_n hope_n &_o fear_n &_o those_o numberless_a disquiet_n which_o torture_v our_o unmortify_v spirit_n he_o take_v from_o we_o the_o safeguard_n of_o justice_n &_o innocency_n whereby_o we_o be_v become_v unable_a to_o govern_v our_o heart_n in_o the_o flight_n of_o evil_a &_o pursuance_n of_o approve_a good_a and_o we_o be_v banish_v forth_o that_o paradise_n which_o be_v the_o seat_n of_o our_o earthly_a happiness_n &_o the_o image_n of_o the_o heavenly_a &_o be_v here_o condemn_v through_o sweat_n &_o sigh_n &_o innumerable_a sorrow_n to_o wear_v out_o a_o anxious_a &_o painful_a life_n these_o be_v the_o misery_n we_o have_v incur_v philothea_n through_o immortification_n of_o our_o sense_n &_o passion_n &_o be_v still_o increase_v in_o we_o by_o give_v reins_n to_o our_o heady_a &_o disorderly_a sensuality_n as_o we_o daily_a experience_n in_o the_o misgovernment_n of_o our_o life_n &_o action_n which_o certain_o none_o can_v serious_o consider_v without_o a_o extreme_a horror_n &_o confusion_n thou_o must_v therefore_o earnest_o endeavour_v to_o suppress_v all_o inordinate_a suggestion_n &_o desire_n of_o flesh_n &_o blood_n through_o consideration_n of_o the_o great_a humiliation_n &_o bitter_a sorrow_n the_o eat_v one_o forbid_v apple_n cost_v the_o son_n of_o god_n the_o severe_a prohibition_n god_n have_v make_v against_o unlawfall_n concupiscence_n &_o his_o command_n that_o we_o mortify_v our_o carnal_a appetite_n crucify_v our_o flesh_n chastise_v our_o body_n hate_n &_o deny_v ourselves_o the_o example_n of_o all_o the_o saint_n &_o lover_n of_o solitude_n &_o the_o great_a damage_n we_o have_v already_o &_o still_o may_v incur_v by_o consent_v to_o our_o vicious_a affection_n then_o by_o examine_v what_o passion_n abound_v most_o in_o thou_o how_o thou_o may_v timely_o prevent_v danger_n of_o raise_v
man_n so_o must_v my_o contemplation_n &_o union_n be_v with_o thou_o a_o glorious_a god_n &_o a_o suffer_a man_n by_o partake_v the_o joy_n of_o one_o &_o sorrow_n of_o the_o other_o i_o will_v therefore_o ever_o aspire_v to_o be_v with_o thou_o in_o the_o glory_n of_o thy_o father_n yet_o will_v joyful_o cast_v myself_o into_o the_o sea_n of_o love_n thy_o bleed_a heart_n that_o through_o it_o i_o may_v swim_v to_o the_o haven_n of_o thy_o hide_a divinity_n come_v then_o all_o torment_n of_o heaven_n &_o earth_n press_v heavy_a upon_o i_o i_o shall_v never_o sink_v as_o long_o as_o support_v by_o the_o save_a grace_n of_o my_o victorious_a redeemer_n oh_o that_o i_o be_v grow_v by_o the_o tooth_n of_o wild_a beast_n tear_v by_o rack_n scorch_v with_o burn_a flame_n so_o i_o may_v enjoy_v christ_n rather_o here_o o_o lord_n rather_o here_o then_o where_o thy_o wrath_n never_o cease_v for_o thou_o will_v lead_v i_o forth_o this_o prison_n &_o show_v i_o all_o thy_o glory_n &_o i_o shall_v confess_v unto_o thy_o name_n resolution_n i_o will_v for_o ever_o make_v my_o habitation_n in_o the_o wound_a heart_n of_o my_o crucify_a lord_n &_o therein_o read_v over_o the_o vast_a book_n of_o love_n suffer_v that_o by_o it_o i_o may_v govern_v my_o life_n &_o action_n not_o content_v myself_o with_o a_o empty_a name_n void_a of_o the_o substance_n &_o perfection_n of_o a_o christian_n therefore_o i_o will_v joyful_o welcome_v all_o tribulation_n as_o special_a gift_n of_o god_n &_o token_n of_o his_o love_n give_v to_o cure_v the_o sore_n of_o my_o sinful_a soul_n exercise_n virtue_n &_o preserve_v to_o life_n everlasting_a for_o who_o ever_o live_v holy_o shall_v suffer_v persecution_n nor_o may_v the_o crown_n of_o endless_a glory_n be_v purchase_v at_o a_o easy_a rate_n i_o will_v therefore_o cheerful_o take_v up_o my_o cross_n rank_n myself_o among_o thy_o zealous_a servant_n &_o follow_v thou_o my_o suffer_a lord_n for_o bless_a be_v he_o who_o suffer_v for_o thou_o because_o when_o he_o be_v try_v he_o shall_v receive_v a_o crown_n of_o life_n &_o immortality_n second_o point_n expropriation_n of_o friend_n consideration_n consider_v that_o to_o attain_v to_o this_o high_a state_n of_o christian_a perfection_n &_o union_n with_o christ_n suffer_v we_o must_v willing_o abandon_v all_o earthly_a content_n &_o embrace_v all_o tribulation_n with_o joy_n in_o imitation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o be_v much_o hard_a &_o consequent_o a_o great_a perfection_n to_o bear_v great_a cross_n with_o patience_n then_o perform_v heroic_a act_n of_o virtue_n without_o difficulty_n for_o our_o virtue_n be_v not_o then_o firm_a when_o not_o shake_v but_o when_o not_o shake_v though_o most_o assail_v by_o adversity_n therefore_o our_o perfection_n grow_v with_o proportion_n to_o our_o suffering_n in_o the_o society_n of_o our_o suffer_a saviour_n who_o pilgrimage_n from_o the_o cribb_n to_o the_o cross_n begin_v in_o tear_n &_o end_v in_o blood_n since_o therefore_o philothea_n thou_o be_v by_o profession_n à _fw-fr christian_n &_o by_o special_a resolution_n a_o seeker_n of_o high_a perfection_n christ_n sorrow_n suffering_n &_o cross_n must_v be_v unto_o thou_o a_o rule_n of_o life_n &_o the_o centre_n of_o all_o thy_o motion_n the_o more_o conformable_a thou_o be_v to_o he_o in_o these_o the_o great_a will_v thy_o perfection_n now_o be_v &_o happiness_n hereafter_o behold_v then_o with_o a_o steadfast_a eye_n the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n hang_v on_o the_o cross_n &_o as_o in_o his_o passion_n so_o in_o his_o death_n abandon_v by_o his_o apostle_n disciple_n &_o all_o his_o usual_a train_n of_o applaud_v attendant_n he_o who_o in_o his_o glory_n be_v guard_v with_o million_o of_o angel_n to_o who_o all_o knee_n bow_v &_o who_o be_v the_o image_n &_o splendour_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o eternal_a father_n be_v now_o forsake_v by_o all._n love_v make_v he_o our_o brother_n by_o assume_v our_o nature_n compassion_n our_o physician_n by_o his_o heal_a doctrine_n &_o sacrament_n mercy_n our_o ransom_n by_o his_o own_o bitter_a death_n discharge_v our_o debt_n &_o now_o alas_o he_o be_v abandon_v of_o all_o he_o descend_v from_o the_o noble_a prince_n priest_n &_o prophet_n of_o israël_n by_o his_o temporal_a birth_n he_o heal_v lame_a blind_a dumb_a leper_n all_o disease_n by_o his_o divine_a power_n all_o man_n &_o angel_n for_o ever_o glorious_a with_o god_n be_v happy_a through_o the_o efficacy_n of_o his_o peace-speaking_a blood_n &_o they_o have_v now_o alas_o all_o desert_a he_o this_o be_v the_o pattern_n which_o we_o must_v imitate_v philothea_n ere_o we_o can_v attain_v the_o perfection_n we_o aim_v at_o we_o must_v be_v entire_o resign_v to_o abandon_v &_o be_v abandon_v by_o all_o even_o our_o dear_a &_o most_o oblige_a friend_n this_o may_v seem_v hard_a &_o indeed_o it_o be_v so_o for_o friendship_n be_v a_o virtue_n &_o charity_n be_v yet_o a_o great_a it_o be_v hard_o therefore_o to_o persuade_v from_o action_n arise_v from_o so_o sublime_a a_o cause_n yet_o be_v it_o main_o necessary_a if_o we_o will_v become_v perfect_a when_o the_o prune_a time_n be_v come_v superfluous_a shoot_n must_v be_v cut_n off_o else_o few_o &_o small_a fruit_n all_o earthly_a friendship_n be_v superfluous_a in_o order_n to_o inward_a perfection_n therefore_o shall_v be_v lop_v off_o that_o the_o sap_n of_o grace_n may_v quiet_o fructify_v in_o we_o to_o life_n everlasting_a under_o the_o conduct_n of_o our_o divine_a guide_n &_o example_n tell_v i_o philothea_n can_v thou_o like_v well_o a_o treason_n in_o thy_o bosom_n friend_n sure_o thou_o can_v not_o if_o david_n have_v be_v curse_v by_o his_o enemy_n he_o can_v have_v bear_v it_o but_o to_o be_v hurt_v by_o a_o friend_n by_o one_o that_o have_v pray_v with_o he_o in_o god_n holy_a house_n that_o be_v a_o unsupportable_a cross_n and_o what_o be_v more_o frequent_a even_o with_o those_o who_o abandon_v the_o world_n shall_v abandon_v its_o weakness_n &_o mutability_n &_o yet_o through_o variety_n of_o opinion_n &_o disposition_n oft_o break_v &_o betray_v a_o friend_n confidence_n if_o then_o for_o the_o love_n of_o thy_o heavenly_a espous_a thou_o have_v forsake_v parent_n kindred_n &_o all_o worldly_a friend_n for_o the_o same_o love_n enter_v not_o now_o or_o at_o least_o break_v off_o any_o singularity_n of_o affection_n even_o towards_o thy_o companion_n in_o the_o study_n of_o perfection_n not_o only_o because_o singularity_n be_v ever_o prejudicial_a in_o professor_n of_o a_o common_a life_n whence_o propriety_n of_o affection_n as_o well_o as_o of_o temporal_a good_n must_v be_v banish_v as_o nurse_n of_o suspicion_n jealousy_n &_o many_o private_a feude_n but_o especial_o because_o they_o hazard_v the_o loss_n of_o our_o inward_a tranquillity_n in_o case_n our_o friend_n to_o who_o we_o have_v imprudent_o disclose_v the_o secret_n of_o our_o heart_n betray_v his_o trust_n use_v our_o freedom_n to_o our_o confusion_n wherefore_o be_v cautious_a in_o trust_v thy_o heart_n string_n to_o any_o but_o as_o the_o wise_a heathen_a say_v ever_o converse_v with_o thy_o friend_n as_o one_o who_o may_v prove_v thy_o enemy_n for_o as_o it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o fire_n to_o burn_v so_o of_o sinner_n to_o be_v weak_a &_o self_n interest_v take_v a_o view_n of_o they_o past_a life_n &_o experience_n will_v teach_v thou_o most_o friendship_n of_o thy_o bosom-friend_n to_o have_v be_v ground_v on_o self-profit_n &_o therefore_o have_v end_v in_o discontent_n &_o enmity_n beside_o the_o superfluity_n &_o treachery_n of_o friendship_n they_o be_v great_a impediment_n of_o virtue_n while_o many_o thought_n be_v spend_v in_o they_o to_o the_o breach_n of_o in_o ward_n peace_n loss_n of_o precious_a time_n &_o neglect_n of_o heavenly_a conference_n with_o our_o divine_a espous_a i_o doubt_v not_o philothea_n but_o thou_o have_v have_v many_o special_a &_o dear_a friend_n &_o much_o delight_v to_o abide_v &_o confer_v with_o they_o &_o what_o profit_n thence_o alas_o much_o vanity_n time_n lose_v languish_n of_o heart_n or_o sin_n even_o now_o then_o knock_v off_o these_o troublesome_a slackle_n whereby_o thou_o be_v fetter_v to_o creature_n however_o dear_a to_o thou_o lest_o thou_o present_v god_n with_o a_o break_a &_o divide_a heart_n whereas_o he_o give_v &_o demand_v a_o whole_a &_o sound_a &_o that_o thou_o owe_v to_o he_o have_v thou_o many_o thousand_o affection_n ah_o how_o hard_o be_v it_o to_o be_v abandon_v by_o all_o friend_n who_o may_v comfort_v we_o in_o our_o desolation_n but_o i_o know_v &_o will_v adore_v the_o power_n that_o work_v this_o happy_a separation_n perhaps_o thou_o have_v for_o ever_o perish_v o_o my_o soul_n have_v not_o not_o thus_o lose_v thy_o friend_n or_o abandon_v he_o for_o god_n alas_o
how_o superfluous_a how_o treacherous_a how_o dangerous_a have_v singularity_n of_o frienships_n hitherto_o prove_v unto_o i_o adieu_n all_o friend_n henceforth_o my_o only_a trust_n shall_v be_v in_o god_n who_o have_v love_v i_o with_o a_o perpetual_a charity_n &_o have_v engrave_v i_o in_o his_o hand_n that_o he_o may_v be_v ever_o mindful_a of_o i_o forsake_v i_o not_o o_o lord_n &_o i_o will_v be_v always_o with_o thou_o &_o become_v as_o a_o pilgrim_n to_o the_o child_n of_o my_o mother_n resolution_n i_o will_v courageous_o quit_v all_o tie_n even_o to_o my_o dear_a friend_n when_o my_o spiritual_a concernment_n require_v it_o whither_o they_o love_v i_o therefore_o or_o hate_v i_o wish_v i_o well_o or_o persecute_v i_o &_o i_o will_v equal_o prepare_v my_o heart_n to_o be_v love_v or_o persecute_v praise_v or_o condemn_v by_o they_o behave_v myself_o as_o a_o pilgrim_n to_o all_o earthly_a creature_n &_o a_o citizen_n of_o heaven_n i_o have_v choose_v my_o solitude_n with_o my_o abandon_a lord_n &_o master_n nor_o shall_v any_o false_a allurement_n or_o harsh_a deal_n change_v my_o resolution_n he_o have_v give_v i_o a_o glorious_a example_n as_o he_o have_v do_v i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o do_v also_o third_z point_n self-denial_n consideration_n consider_v that_o jesus_n christ_n hang_v on_o the_o cross_n be_v the_o true_a pattern_n of_o self-denial_n this_o be_v his_o doctrine_n while_o he_o live_v &_o this_o his_o practice_n in_o his_o passion_n &_o death_n therefore_o his_o prayer_n to_o his_o eternal_a father_n be_v not_o i_o but_o thy_o will_n be_v do_v behold_v then_o how_o he_o lose_v his_o blood_n in_o his_o agony_n his_o esteem_n by_o revile_n &_o blasphemy_n his_o strength_n by_o whip_n &_o thorn_n his_o comeliness_n by_o stripe_n &_o wound_n the_o joy_n of_o the_o low_a region_n of_o his_o soul_n by_o excess_n of_o sorrow_n &_o his_o life_n by_o a_o most_o bitter_a &_o ignominious_a death_n thus_o the_o most_o beautiful_a among_o the_o child_n of_o man_n be_v become_v as_o one_o strike_v of_o god_n cover_v with_o leprosy_n &_o a_o man_n of_o sorrow_n if_o thou_o desire_v philothea_n to_o become_v perfect_a thou_o must_v also_o endeavour_v this_o self-denial_n &_o separation_n of_o thyself_o from_o thyself_o by_o abandon_v thy_o own_o will_n &_o a_o readiness_n to_o sacrifice_v unto_o god_n thy_o tear_n blood_n body_n soul_n &_o all_o the_o calamity_n &_o affliction_n god_n providence_n may_v inflict_v on_o thou_o willing_o suffer_v what_o ever_o cross_n may_v befall_v thou_o in_o conformity_n to_o his_o holy_a will_n &_o the_o counsel_n &_o practice_v of_o thy_o suffer_a lord_n &_o master_n there_o be_v none_o of_o what_o condition_n soever_o but_o must_v more_o or_o less_o take_v up_o christ_n cross_n &_o follow_v he_o by_o self-denial_n &_o bear_v some_o tribulation_n for_o his_o sake_n &_o their_o own_o profit_n through_o sin_n the_o flesh_n &_o spirit_n be_v at_o odds_o &_o sensuality_n rebel_n against_o god_n no_o wonder_n then_o if_o we_o feel_v contradiction_n within_o our_o own_o heart_n &_o suffering_n from_o the_o inordinate_a passion_n desire_n or_o malice_n of_o other_o neither_o saint_n nor_o sinner_n nor_o any_o mortal_a creature_n be_v exempt_a from_o the_o law_n of_o the_o cross_n of_o what_o majesty_n wisdom_n power_n or_o holiness_n soever_o he_o be_v nor_o be_v any_o of_o these_o happy_a unless_o resign_v to_o bear_v all_o thou_o suffer_v not_o alone_a philothea_n all_o must_v willing_o or_o against_o their_o will_n suffer_v with_o thou_o which_o shall_v encourage_v thou_o to_o a_o unbroken_a patience_n amid_o the_o heavy_a press_n of_o tribulation_n which_o may_v happen_v to_o thou_o especial_o since_o thy_o jesus_n thy_o espous_a the_o giver_n of_o all_o good_a suffer_v so_o many_o so_o long_o so_o grievous_a torment_n with_o thou_o nor_o may_v we_o hope_v to_o enjoy_v the_o consolation_n of_o this_o &_o the_o other_o life_n we_o must_v forgo_v one_o or_o the_o other_o either_o suffer_v here_o or_o else_o where_o which_o will_v thou_o choose_v be_v it_o not_o much_o better_a to_o undergo_v a_o momentany_a tribulation_n than_o a_o eternal_a only_o worldly_a pleasure_n can_v destroy_v thou_o therefore_o fly_v from_o they_o the_o cross_n only_o whereby_o the_o whole_a world_n be_v save_v can_v save_v thou_o seek_v it_o then_o &_o with_o it_o thou_o shall_v find_v life_n &_o salvation_n thy_o crown_n of_o thorn_n shall_v be_v change_v into_o a_o crown_n of_o never_o fade_a glory_n &_o if_o thou_o have_v drink_v of_o the_o torrent_n of_o tribulation_n with_o thy_o crucify_a redeemer_n thou_o shall_v also_o taste_v the_o delicacy_n of_o his_o heavenly_a happiness_n in_o his_o glorious_a kingdom_n affection_n if_o jesus_n must_v suffer_v ere_o he_o enter_v his_o glory_n can_v thou_o o_o my_o soul_n hope_v to_o purchase_v heaven_n at_o a_o easy_a rate_n no_o my_o dear_a lord_n since_o love_v move_v thou_o to_o transfigure_v thyself_o into_o a_o man_n of_o sorrow_n for_o my_o sake_n love_v also_o shall_v compel_v i_o to_o be_v conformable_a to_o thou_o my_o holy_a espous_a let_v i_o but_o enjoy_v thou_o &_o then_o let_v what_o ever_o tribulation_n thou_o please_v fall_v upon_o i_o here_o cut_n here_o burn_v so_o thou_o spare_v i_o for_o eternity_n o_o eternity_n who_o can_v live_v with_o thy_o everlasting_a torment_n come_v therefore_o o_o delicious_a cross_n o_o amiable_a tribulation_n by_o which_o i_o may_v purchase_v a_o eternity_n of_o joy_n resolution_n i_o will_v prepare_v myself_o to_o this_o spiritual_a combat_n &_o not_o only_o endure_v the_o tribulation_n which_o my_o sensuality_n &_o disorderly_a passion_n may_v raise_v against_o i_o but_o what_o ever_o cross_v the_o malice_n of_o satan_n or_o the_o sweet_a providence_n of_o my_o heavenly_a father_n shall_v inflict_v upon_o i_o &_o humble_o cast_v myself_o at_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o cross_n i_o will_v say_v behold_v here_o o_o divine_a lord_n behold_v here_o my_o whole_a self_n my_o body_n my_o soul_n my_o all_o ready_a to_o abandon_v all_o content_n &_o to_o suffer_v all_o sorrow_n for_o thou_o thy_o will_v be_v do_v pleasure_n or_o pain_n thorn_n or_o diadem_n life_n or_o death_n all_o shall_v be_v indifferent_o welcome_a only_o be_v thou_o with_o i_o o_o strong_a helper_n &_o none_o shall_v prevail_v against_o me._n evening_n exercise_n first_o discourse_n spiritual_a desolation_n although_o our_o lord_n jesus_n be_v the_o belove_a of_o the_o eternal_a father_n equal_a to_o he_o in_o essence_n wisdom_n &_o power_n yet_o for_o we_o he_o will_v become_v a_o outcast_n desert_v by_o he_o harken_v philothea_n to_o that_o lamentable_a complaint_n he_o make_v to_o his_o father_n upon_o the_o cross_n my_o god_n my_o god_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o though_o his_o humane_a nature_n lose_v not_o its_o union_n with_o the_o godhead_n nor_o the_o grace_n or_o friendship_n of_o god_n yet_o the_o influence_n of_o his_o divinity_n on_o the_o inferior_a portion_n of_o his_o soul_n be_v then_o suspend_v &_o he_o leave_v to_o struggle_v with_o the_o bitter_a torment_n &_o pang_n of_o a_o most_o cruel_a &_o ignominious_a death_n our_o solitary_a pilgrim_n to_o perfection_n must_v be_v prepare_v to_o welcome_v this_o sublime_a state_n of_o spiritual_a desolation_n if_o she_o aspire_v to_o a_o union_n &_o conformity_n with_o her_o heavenly_a espous_a she_o must_v not_o only_o content_o abandon_v all_o friend_n &_o bear_v what_o ever_o cross_n but_o must_v also_o willing_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o those_o delight_n which_o usual_o accompany_v a_o devout_a life_n undergo_v aridity_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o loose_v the_o savoury_a influence_n of_o god_n gracious_a favour_n &_o instead_o of_o pleasant_a illustration_n of_o the_o understanding_n enflaming_n of_o the_o will_n &_o flow_n of_o joy_n in_o the_o heart_n to_o have_v the_o spirit_n load_v with_o dulness_n barrenness_n &_o insensibility_n to_o heavenly_a thought_n &_o action_n if_o god_n thus_o try_v thy_o constancy_n assure_v thyself_o philothea_n he_o be_v even_o then_o present_a with_o thou_o watch_v in_o the_o centre_n of_o thy_o heart_n over_o thou_o cause_v aversion_n from_o sin_n desire_v to_o perform_v the_o duty_n of_o thy_o state_n &_o long_n to_o be_v with_o god_n though_o in_o that_o distress_n a_o darkness_n be_v spread_v over_o thy_o soul_n &_o thou_o be_v deprive_v of_o thy_o usual_a cheerfulness_n &_o alacrity_n the_o cause_n of_o this_o our_o desolation_n oft_o be_v in_o ourselves_o either_o a_o too_o eager_a desire_n of_o or_o delight_n in_o spiritual_a consolation_n or_o a_o neglect_n of_o timely_a entertain_v offer_v inspiration_n or_o else_o too_o much_o proneness_n to_o seek_v &_o accept_v of_o sensual_a satisfaction_n but_o the_o chief_a cause_n thereof_o be_v god_n only_o who_o property_n it_o be_v to_o create_v light_n &_o darkness_n &_o