that_o duty_n the_o spirit_n know_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o be_v the_o intelligencer_n of_o heaven_n he_o direct_v we_o to_o the_o most_o favourable_a season_n and_o by_o soft_a whisper_v and_o warm_a impulse_n bring_v we_o in_o god_n presence_n to_o pray_v for_o mercy_n when_o god_n be_v ready_a to_o bestow_v they_o he_o do_v with_o sensible_a enlargement_n open_v our_o heart_n in_o the_o duty_n and_o as_o under_o the_o law_n when_o fire_n fall_v from_o heaven_n upon_o the_o sacrifice_n it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o god_n acceptance_n so_o when_o a_o sacred_a fire_n kindle_v our_o affection_n it_o be_v a_o sign_n our_o request_n be_v accept_v he_o mix_v in_o our_o prayer_n reverence_n with_o filial_a confidence_n resignation_n to_o the_o will_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n with_o reliance_n upon_o his_o love_n and_o power_n and_o when_o a_o mercy_n be_v bestow_v the_o spirit_n convert_v our_o prayer_n into_o praise_n and_o by_o the_o mercy_n confirm_v our_o faith_n inflame_v our_o love_n and_o endear_v obedience_n to_o we_o concern_v the_o person_n of_o who_o the_o follow_a paper_n give_v a_o account_n i_o shall_v only_o say_v he_o be_v a_o christian_n inward_o who_o have_v have_v a_o state_v intercourse_n with_o heaven_n and_o have_v record_v the_o gracious_a passage_n of_o providence_n the_o rich_a return_v of_o prayer_n to_o he_o it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v a_o continual_a succession_n of_o mercy_n through_o all_o the_o minute_n of_o our_o life_n which_o we_o can_v observe_v and_o remember_v but_o as_o there_o be_v a_o different_a glory_n in_o the_o light_n of_o heaven_n one_o glory_n of_o the_o sun_n another_o of_o the_o moon_n and_o another_o of_o the_o star_n so_o some_o be_v eminent_a and_o illustrious_a above_o other_o and_o aught_o to_o be_v remember_v and_o acknowledge_v with_o solemnity_n of_o these_o mercy_n he_o have_v be_v deep_o sensible_a and_o can_v not_o be_v silent_a but_o open_v the_o treasure_n of_o his_o experience_n and_o with_o david_n the_o great_a pattern_n of_o thankfulness_n call_v upon_o those_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n to_o read_v what_o he_o have_v do_v for_o his_o soul_n his_o end_n be_v to_o glorify_v his_o bless_a benefactor_n and_o to_o invite_v other_o to_o partake_v of_o the_o same_o mercy_n may_v his_o example_n excite_v we_o with_o diligence_n and_o delight_n to_o maintain_v communion_n with_o god_n on_o earth_n the_o sweet_a and_o sure_a anticipation_n and_o earnest_n of_o our_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o his_o temple_n above_o where_o light_n and_o love_n and_o joy_n shine_v in_o their_o perfection_n for_o ever_o to_o the_o reader_n who_o among_o the_o adopt_a son_n of_o god_n can_v behold_v the_o abound_a vice_n of_o the_o profane_a the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n make_v a_o cloak_n for_o sin_n and_o error_n and_o the_o laziness_n of_o christian_n life_n in_o our_o day_n and_o not_o awaken_v ourselves_o to_o hear_v god_n speak_v in_o the_o same_o language_n to_o we_o as_o to_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n isa_n 43.10_o you_o be_v my_o witness_n be_v god_n divine_a providence_n practical_o deny_v or_o retrench_v when_o so_o much_o thereof_o be_v in_o the_o constant_a view_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n deny_v by_o a_o sectary_n of_o deist_n when_o so_o much_o thereof_o be_v feel_v as_o real_a in_o the_o soul_n of_o christian_n be_v the_o godhead_n of_o christ_n with_o the_o be_v of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n so_o audacious_o and_o profane_o deny_v when_o those_o who_o have_v experience_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o the_o first_o by_o the_o powerful_a application_n of_o the_o latter_a witness_v the_o reality_n of_o both_o i_o be_o resolve_v therefore_o to_o make_v no_o other_o apology_n for_o my_o print_n the_o follow_a discourse_n than_o that_o it_o be_v in_o obedience_n to_o the_o apostle_n charge_n to_o all_o believer_n in_o the_o 10_o verse_n of_o the_o four_o chapter_n of_o the_o first_o epistle_n of_o peter_n as_o every_o man_n have_v receive_v the_o gift_n even_o so_o minister_v the_o same_o one_o to_o another_o as_o good_a steward_n of_o the_o manifold_a grace_n of_o god_n what_o i_o have_v impart_v i_o have_v receive_v and_o in_o these_o gradual_a step_n and_o in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o mean_n treat_v of_o in_o the_o first_o and_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o discourse_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o impart_v of_o what_o god_n have_v do_v for_o my_o soul_n and_o by_o what_o mean_n i_o hope_v i_o stand_v his_o witness_n this_o day_n on_o the_o earth_n and_o approve_v myself_o a_o faithful_a steward_n in_o minister_a the_o same_o thing_n to_o other_o and_o that_o in_o the_o way_n wherein_o they_o be_v receive_v there_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o confederacy_n between_o satan_n and_o the_o man_n of_o this_o age_n to_o discredit_v the_o oracle_n of_o god_n but_o his_o word_n be_v a_o firm_a foundation_n of_o faith_n and_o sincere_a christian_n clear_o see_v the_o character_n of_o its_o divinity_n and_o feel_v the_o sanctify_a comfort_a efficacy_n of_o it_o and_o many_o have_v seal_v its_o truth_n with_o their_o blood_n other_o in_o their_o die_a hour_n when_o man_n speak_v with_o most_o feeling_n and_o least_o affectation_n have_v declare_v their_o unshaken_a belief_n of_o it_o and_o other_o in_o converse_n with_o those_o they_o most_o dear_o love_v and_o therefore_o will_v not_o deceive_v each_o christian_a therefore_o be_v under_o obligation_n to_o glorify_v god_n according_a to_o their_o measure_n of_o experience_n concern_v god_n and_o his_o divine_a truth_n all_o be_v not_o in_o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o there_o seem_v in_o our_o day_n but_o small_a opportunity_n in_o conversation_n to_o witness_v for_o christianity_n converse_v with_o the_o profane_a be_v of_o so_o dangerous_a consequence_n that_o discourse_n of_o such_o thing_n occasion_n god_n and_o his_o truth_n to_o be_v mock_v yea_o to_o my_o certain_a knowledge_n blaspheme_v converse_v with_o some_o under_o the_o character_n of_o great_a sobriety_n draw_v forth_o such_o open_a confidence_n in_o error_n as_o to_o tell_v we_o god_n word_n the_o rule_n of_o our_o faith_n be_v to_o be_v lay_v aside_o and_o debate_n in_o christianity_n be_v to_o be_v leave_v off_o at_o the_o first_o chapter_n of_o genesis_n they_o give_v no_o credit_n to_o its_o truth_n than_o so_o far_o as_o their_o natural_a reason_n can_v comprehend_v whereas_o the_o soul_n be_v corrupt_v in_o all_o its_o faculty_n by_o the_o fall_n although_o in_o the_o structure_n of_o the_o world_n and_o its_o preservation_n with_o the_o various_a turn_n of_o providence_n there_o be_v clear_a discovery_n of_o the_o divine_a maker_n yet_o how_o little_a advance_v do_v the_o wise_a philosopher_n make_v to_o that_o perfection_n of_o soul_n which_o be_v in_o man_n before_o the_o fall_n or_o to_o that_o that_o be_v obtain_v under_o the_o influence_a light_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o divine_a spirit_n or_o shall_v be_v in_o man_n place_v in_o a_o state_n of_o glory_n and_o though_o god_n have_v add_v to_o we_o his_o bless_a scripture_n in_o conjunction_n with_o the_o work_n of_o creation_n and_o providence_n to_o exercise_v our_o thought_n upon_o for_o the_o perfect_a of_o our_o knowledge_n yet_o to_o what_o little_a advancement_n do_v many_o attain_v in_o the_o understanding_n of_o god_n and_o divine_a mystery_n therefore_o our_o compassionate_a father_n in_o christ_n sensible_a of_o our_o weakness_n in_o the_o real_a and_o firm_a understanding_n of_o divine_a thing_n have_v give_v forth_o another_o help_n to_o our_o dark_a soul_n in_o conjunction_n with_o the_o former_a even_o his_o divine_a spirit_n teach_v we_o all_o truth_n and_o help_v we_o to_o a_o rest_n and_o reliance_n upon_o his_o word_n work_v in_o we_o a_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o those_o great_a and_o marvellous_a mystery_n for_o prepare_v our_o soul_n towards_o the_o more_o full_a and_o glorious_a perception_n of_o they_o the_o revelation_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v like_o the_o morning-light_n mix_v with_o the_o shade_n of_o the_o night_n the_o revelation_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n be_v clear_a day_n but_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o heaven_n be_v like_o the_o sun_n at_o noon_n in_o its_o full_a lustre_n if_o this_o therefore_o have_v be_v god_n gradual_a method_n to_o restore_v man_n and_o we_o enjoy_v so_o bright_a a_o discovery_n of_o mercy_n to_o save_v we_o those_o who_o refuse_v to_o accept_v it_o can_v escape_v the_o condemnation_n due_a as_o the_o recompense_n of_o it_o the_o dwell_n in_o darkness_n with_o the_o child_n of_o darkness_n and_o disobedience_n for_o ever_o rom._n 2._o if_o those_o who_o have_v have_v no_o other_o help_n in_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o invisible_a thing_n of_o god_n beside_o the_o behold_n of_o create_a thing_n be_v
powerful_o to_o pray_v for_o strength_n to_o resist_v the_o temptation_n of_o reproach_v other_o either_o through_o the_o natural_a tendency_n thereto_o the_o common_a example_n of_o other_o or_o out_o of_o the_o tempting-design_n of_o self-applause_n in_o the_o disparagement_n of_o other_o and_o answerable_a hereto_o marvellous_a strength_n of_o christ_n spirit_n be_v afford_v i_o with_o special_a providence_n discover_v this_o spiritual_a strength_n accompany_v with_o the_o bear_n home_o upon_o my_o thought_n that_o of_o st._n matthew_n chap._n 7._o ver_fw-la 12._o all_o thing_n whatsoever_o you_o will_v that_o man_n shall_v do_v unto_o you_o do_v you_o even_o so_o with_o they_o that_o then_o i_o can_v not_o but_o observe_v myself_o against_o my_o own_o corrupt_a inclination_n and_o other_o example_n preserve_v from_o this_o too_o natural_a and_o common_a vice_n even_o of_o lazy_a and_o profess_v christian_n who_o by_o the_o actual_a remembrance_n of_o this_o very_a passage_n may_v be_v a_o excellent_a mean_n to_o preserve_v they_o from_o the_o malignant_a infection_n of_o reproach_v other_o five_o i_o experience_v a_o wonderful_a strength_n to_o pray_v for_o a_o continue_a sense_n of_o god_n all-seeing_a eye_n as_o well_o in_o conversation_n as_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o religious_a duty_n suitable_a to_o which_o not_o only_o awful_a thought_n of_o his_o majesty_n approach_v in_o duty_n prevent_v distraction_n therein_o seize_v i_o but_o even_o a_o powerful_a awe_n of_o god_n affect_v i_o in_o common_a and_o private_a action_n always_o consider_v any_o circumstance_n in_o the_o action_n as_o may_v destroy_v god_n accept_v thereof_o especial_o as_o to_o act_n of_o charity_n wherein_o i_o have_v find_v such_o a_o watch_n over_o myself_o as_o i_o can_v not_o have_v be_v satisfy_v without_o strict_a enquiry_n whether_o unwillingliness_n be_v not_o in_o the_o action_n whether_o some_o desire_n of_o applause_n or_o only_a pity_n and_o natural_a tenderness_n be_v not_o the_o motive_n of_o this_o charitable_a action_n and_o nothing_o then_o have_v be_v more_o please_a than_o to_o find_v that_o a_o willingliness_n to_o obey_v god_n command_n on_o purpose_n to_o please_v he_o in_o the_o compassionate_a relief_n of_o other_o a_o cheerfulness_n without_o the_o least_o intermixture_n of_o reluctancy_n a_o sincerity_n without_o the_o least_o desire_n of_o its_o be_v know_v be_v the_o ingredient_n of_o the_o duty_n i_o desire_v to_o witness_v the_o difficulty_n of_o thus_o perform_v action_n without_o great_a and_o actual_a influence_n of_o strength_n from_o above_o the_o reception_n whereof_o be_v often_o obtain_v by_o that_o bless_a mean_n of_o solemn_a or_o ejaculatory_a prayer_n wherein_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n intercede_v for_o his_o people_n the_o same_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n impress_v upon_o i_o a_o sense_n of_o god_n all-seeing_a eye_n and_o that_o scripture_n be_v continual_o in_o my_o thought_n of_o do_v all_o thing_n as_o unto_o the_o lord_n the_o constant_a remembrance_n whereof_o i_o have_v find_v great_o advance_v that_o gospel-perfection_n of_o a_o unfeigned_a sincerity_n both_o in_o converse_n with_o god_n in_o holy_a duty_n and_o with_o one_o another_o in_o common_a action_n and_o discourse_n six_o i_o can_v tell_v you_o that_o at_o another_o time_n i_o have_v be_v powerful_o help_v to_o petition_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n to_o god_n and_o answerable_a to_o this_o i_o have_v be_v help_v in_o prayer_n and_o in_o worldly_a business_n to_o draw_v forth_o kindler_n of_o love_n to_o god_n from_o all_o sensible_a circumstance_n of_o myself_o and_o other_o even_o from_o the_o poor_a in_o the_o street_n both_o as_o to_o their_o poverty_n and_o imperfection_n of_o body_n bless_v the_o lord_n with_o sweet_a exercise_n of_o love_n to_o he_o yea_o this_o grace_n of_o love_n to_o god_n have_v be_v excite_v from_o the_o observation_n of_o fullness_n and_o prosperity_n in_o some_o but_o with_o great_a emptiness_n of_o the_o inward_a comfort_n of_o the_o experience_a christian_n soul_n for_o sensual_a pleasure_n divert_v their_o thought_n from_o the_o observation_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o what_o be_v much_o more_o to_o be_v value_v in_o their_o nature_n and_o last_v in_o their_o duration_n at_o this_o very_a time_n happen_v to_o be_v alone_o in_o a_o coach_n remark_v such_o kindler_n of_o love_n from_o circumstance_n of_o other_o appear_v in_o the_o street_n sudden_o and_o strong_o this_o suggestion_n force_v itself_o upon_o my_o mind_n how_o be_v it_o that_o god_n do_v show_v such_o special_a favour_n to_o i_o beyond_o other_o yea_o to_o make_v i_o differ_v so_o much_o from_o myself_o in_o former_a time_n with_o amaze_a thought_n of_o the_o change_n upon_o my_o soul_n and_o immediate_o that_o scripture_n overawe_v i_o from_o corrupt_a rational_a argue_v or_o from_o satan_n darken_v or_o deviate_v i_o from_o right_a conception_n of_o god_n and_o his_o way_n i_o will_v have_v mercy_n on_o who_o i_o will_v have_v mercy_n i_o will_v have_v compassion_n on_o who_o i_o will_v have_v compassion_n from_o whence_o happen_v such_o quiet_a of_o mind_n as_o have_v by_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n still_v my_o thought_n perfect_o as_o to_o that_o great_a point_n of_o election_n which_o be_v the_o great_a effect_n of_o free_a unmerited_a mercy_n and_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n bring_v the_o child_n of_o mercy_n safe_o to_o salvation_n this_o warm_o excite_v my_o love_n to_o god_n have_v a_o evidence_n of_o my_o share_n in_o his_o elect_v mercy_n by_o the_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o it_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n begin_v in_o i_o and_o prepare_v i_o for_o the_o heavenly_a glory_n a_o seven_o experience_n be_v when_o altogether_o insensible_a of_o the_o growth_n of_o faith_n and_o when_o the_o lord_n by_o a_o marvellous_a method_n be_v to_o establish_v it_o in_o my_o soul_n even_o than_o i_o observe_v for_o some_o considerable_a time_n that_o i_o be_v carry_v out_o in_o prayer_n and_o meditation_n with_o zealous_a affection_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v turn_v my_o eye_n and_o trust_v from_o sensible_a thing_n to_o a_o trust_n and_o reliance_n upon_o god_n himself_o as_o to_o all_o outward_a thing_n and_o as_o to_o the_o inward_a advancement_n of_o holiness_n as_o a_o mean_a tend_v to_o future_a salvation_n answerable_a to_o which_o god_n have_v discover_v himself_o marvellous_o in_o the_o step_n of_o outward_a providential_a dispensation_n and_o by_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n as_o mean_n of_o sound_v and_o establish_v this_o grace_n of_o reliance_n in_o my_o soul_n which_o i_o hope_v shall_v be_v increase_v in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n till_o faith_n obtain_v its_o perfect_a end_n the_o fruition_n of_o god_n in_o glory_n and_o though_o i_o hope_v i_o may_v say_v in_o humility_n that_o my_o soul_n be_v raise_v above_o sensible_a thing_n to_o look_v to_o thing_n unseen_a and_o to_o set_v my_o esteem_n and_o reliance_n with_o comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n upon_o they_o independent_o upon_o worldly_a thing_n yet_o i_o be_o ashamed_a for_o the_o small_a growth_n of_o reliance_n in_o i_o and_o that_o great_a improvement_n therein_o have_v not_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o infinite_o wise_a and_o condescend_v method_n of_o god_n goodness_n in_o train_v i_o to_o live_v by_o faith_n in_o his_o promise_n and_o perfection_n experience_n of_o god_n method_n in_o train_v i_o to_o the_o first_o sense_n of_o reliance_n with_o its_o further_a establishment_n and_o growth_n and_o that_o exact_o as_o they_o be_v set_v down_o in_o record_n in_o my_o diary_n the_o first_o experience_n lead_v i_o to_o observe_v god_n follow_v method_n with_o i_o be_v that_o of_o carry_v i_o forth_o in_o prayer_n to_o petition_v establishment_n of_o faith_n in_o my_o soul_n which_o begin_v most_o remarkable_o after_o a_o fit_a of_o sickness_n and_o have_v continue_v to_o be_v upon_o my_o mind_n in_o all_o my_o suit_n great_a or_o lesser_a since_o that_o and_o i_o hope_v will_v continue_v to_o the_o end_n of_o my_o militant_a warfare_n a_o second_o experience_n lead_v i_o to_o reliance_n upon_o god_n be_v by_o remove_v all_o dependence_n from_o these_o outward_a fabulous_a passage_n reckon_v as_o ominous_a of_o such_o and_o such_o certain_a event_n which_o undoubted_o be_v at_o first_o the_o effect_n of_o ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a god_n among_o the_o heathen_a world_n who_o notwithstanding_o the_o discovery_n of_o god_n in_o his_o nature_n and_o providence_n by_o visible_a thing_n the_o effect_n of_o his_o power_n yet_o natural_a thing_n keep_v first_o in_o their_o view_n and_o have_v the_o preeminency_n of_o god_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o heart_n and_o though_o we_o enjoy_v the_o discovery_n of_o god_n in_o his_o word_n and_o providence_n so_o plain_o yet_o how_o do_v we_o retain_v the_o example_n in_o reduce_v those_o thing_n to_o natural_a cause_n that_o be_v to_o be_v apply_v
scripture_n accompany_v with_o great_a power_n to_o repel_v rise_n of_o corruption_n towards_o revenge_n and_o perfect_o to_o quiet_v my_o mind_n with_o a_o reliance_n upon_o god_n concern_v the_o matter_n the_o first_o experience_n whereof_o meet_v i_o in_o the_o street_n where_o hear_v of_o a_o false_a and_o unmerited_a aspersion_n upon_o myself_o at_o who_o hand_n i_o deserve_v better_o immediate_o a_o design_n of_o revenge_n be_v rise_v and_o be_v carry_v further_o on_o by_o meditate_v upon_o it_o till_o come_v home_o and_o enter_v my_o chamber_n and_o take_v the_o bible_n in_o my_o hand_n that_o very_a scripture_n be_v offer_v to_o my_o view_n and_o by_o the_o influence_n of_o heaven_n make_v a_o assisting-instrument_n of_o quiet_a at_o the_o time_n and_o ever_o since_o a_o strong_a help_n to_o watch_v myself_o in_o the_o like_a case_n its_o suitableness_n to_o my_o circumstance_n its_o effectual_a power_n restrain_v i_o from_o comply_v with_o satan_n and_o inward_a corruption_n and_o incline_v and_o enable_v i_o to_o obey_v god_n who_o will_n be_v declare_v in_o his_o word_n be_v a_o testimony_n that_o a_o gracious_a providence_n bring_v that_o scripture_n to_o my_o sight_n nine_o when_o reproach_n against_o i_o and_o malicious_a design_n have_v a_o probability_n of_o take_v effect_n and_o have_v be_v turn_v into_o other_o event_n against_o the_o design_n wish_v or_o expectation_n of_o my_o enemy_n than_o that_o scripture_n of_o the_o 11_o verse_n of_o the_o 41st_o psalm_n by_o this_o i_o know_v thou_o favour_v i_o because_o my_o enemy_n triumph_v not_o over_o i_o have_v be_v not_o only_o confirm_v but_o impress_v upon_o i_o with_o much_o inward_a comfort_n at_o one_o time_n the_o whole_a 15_o psalm_n be_v bear_v upon_o my_o thought_n with_o that_o strength_n and_o continuance_n that_o i_o be_v continual_o desire_v conformity_n to_o it_o and_o measure_v my_o action_n by_o its_o rule_n till_o god_n give_v into_o my_o soul_n the_o evidence_n of_o some_o measure_n of_o conformity_n to_o it_o with_o other_o spiritual_a comfort_n at_o that_o time_n a_o multitude_n of_o other_o scripture_n have_v be_v apply_v to_o my_o soul_n at_o the_o time_n of_o need_v comfort_n and_o instruction_n but_o they_o will_v enlarge_v my_o discourse_n too_o much_o and_o may_v occasion_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o author_n and_o therefore_o i_o choose_v rather_o to_o stop_v here_o have_v enumerate_v so_o many_o as_o afford_v a_o testimony_n to_o the_o reality_n of_o christ_n spirit_n apply_v to_o the_o precept_n and_o promise_n of_o the_o word_n and_o bear_v home_o scripture_n truth_n as_o instructive_a to_o instruct_v and_o remember_v we_o of_o our_o duty_n and_o encourage_v we_o to_o persevere_v in_o it_o till_o we_o arrive_v at_o heaven_n experience_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v sensible_a withdrawing_n in_o prayer_n from_o help_v the_o christian_n to_o ask_v what_o he_o will_v not_o return_v though_o in_o his_o design_n to_o petition_v the_o first_o experience_n whereof_o be_v that_o though_o i_o have_v design_v to_o have_v pray_v for_o a_o event_n yet_o in_o the_o prayer_n i_o have_v not_o direct_v a_o petition_n for_o it_o and_o though_o i_o have_v intend_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o that_o duty_n several_a time_n to_o pray_v for_o it_o i_o have_v be_v restrain_v second_o when_o one_o day_n i_o design_v to_o renew_v my_o request_n to_o god_n for_o obtain_v a_o matter_n in_o my_o morning_n supplication_n my_o desire_n be_v fervent_o excite_v but_o in_o the_o afternoon_n i_o be_v much_o restrain_v and_o in_o some_o hour_n afterward_o my_o soul_n be_v draw_v forth_o earnest_o to_o seek_v it_o and_o upon_o enquiry_n i_o find_v that_o the_o three_o different_a alteration_n in_o the_o matter_n that_o day_n and_o the_o different_a time_n of_o the_o alteration_n exact_o suit_v the_o time_n of_o different_a prayer_n to_o illustrate_v which_o i_o will_v give_v you_o one_o instance_n among_o many_o concern_v a_o friend_n who_o circumstance_n i_o put_v up_o to_o the_o lord_n three_o several_a time_n in_o one_o day_n and_o suitable_a to_o my_o great_a enlargement_n for_o they_o in_o my_o morning-prayer_n be_v much_o better_o but_o suitable_a to_o my_o afternoon_n constraint_n be_v for_o some_o hour_n in_o rack_a misery_n and_o suitable_a to_o my_o return_n in_o spirituality_n in_o prayer_n for_o they_o there_o be_v a_o return_n of_o mercy_n in_o their_o relief_n the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n exact_o suit_v one_o another_o that_o there_o be_v a_o refreshment_n from_o pain_n and_o a_o return_n of_o they_o according_a as_o prayer_n be_v intense_a and_o enlarge_v or_o restrain_v of_o which_o i_o make_v careful_a observation_n three_o another_o experience_n of_o constraint_n from_o prayer_n have_v be_v concern_v a_o matter_n which_o all_o circumstance_n consider_v be_v very_o likely_a to_o succeed_v but_o not_o find_v my_o heart_n in_o a_o frame_n to_o pray_v for_o it_o i_o suspect_v the_o issue_n and_o according_o it_o be_v not_o effect_v a_o instance_n thereof_o be_v concern_v the_o dear_a relation_n i_o have_v on_o earth_n who_o be_v sick_a for_o 6_o week_n i_o be_v restrain_v from_o prayer_n with_o reliance_n upon_o god_n for_o restore_a mercy_n and_o the_o issue_n be_v the_o death_n of_o that_o belove_a person_n for_o who_o recovery_n through_o the_o course_n of_o their_o illness_n i_o can_v never_o put_v up_o one_o serious_a petition_n two_o very_o late_a passage_n i_o can_v set_v down_o great_o establish_v myself_o and_o marvellous_a in_o themselves_o one_o be_v concern_v a_o person_n of_o great_a worth_n of_o who_o death_n i_o have_v information_n in_o all_o probability_n certain_a but_o be_v in_o the_o street_n all_o alone_a i_o find_v myself_o enlarge_v to_o pray_v for_o their_o soul_n salvation_n and_o that_o with_o marvellous_a pleasure_n as_o if_o i_o have_v be_v assure_o certain_a of_o their_o future_a eternal_a happiness_n and_o be_v afterward_o in_o serious_a prayer_n i_o find_v the_o same_o sweetness_n as_o i_o have_v enjoy_v in_o spiritual_a breathe_n from_o above_o upon_o this_o i_o humble_o say_v to_o one_o who_o be_v my_o bosom-friend_n i_o be_v not_o of_o the_o opinion_n that_o the_o person_n i_o pray_v for_o be_v dead_a and_o impart_v my_o reason_n hereof_o that_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o spirit_n have_v help_v i_o in_o sweet_a spirituality_n to_o supplicate_v for_o they_o according_o we_o have_v a_o account_n of_o the_o person_n be_v be_v better_a but_o the_o next_o morning_n follow_v i_o find_v such_o a_o restraint_n from_o pray_v for_o that_o person_n that_o i_o then_o say_v to_o my_o friend_n that_o the_o person_n be_v dead_a and_o that_o very_a account_n we_o have_v present_o after_o the_o other_o passage_n be_v concern_v one_o to_o be_v execute_v for_o who_o salvation_n i_o find_v my_o affection_n very_o ardent_o draw_v forth_o in_o prayer_n to_o the_o father_n of_o mercy_n but_o in_o prayer_n for_o his_o life_n my_o desire_n be_v dry_v up_o and_o my_o tongue_n do_v as_o it_o be_v cleave_v to_o the_o roof_n of_o my_o mouth_n three_o time_n i_o find_v this_o change_n in_o myself_o be_v always_o carry_v out_o with_o fervency_n and_o freedom_n to_o pray_v for_o his_o soul_n but_o restrain_v and_o discourage_v to_o pray_v for_o his_o life_n observe_v this_o difference_n in_o myself_o i_o tell_v a_o intimate_a friend_n that_o i_o have_v good_a hope_n of_o his_o eternal_a salvation_n but_o no_o hope_n of_o his_o pardon_n the_o issue_n be_v the_o condemn_a person_n be_v reprieve_v for_o two_o day_n and_o be_v afterward_o execute_v and_o at_o his_o death_n his_o behaviour_n be_v so_o humble_a and_o christian_n that_o the_o minister_n that_o attend_v he_o declare_v his_o great_a satisfaction_n that_o he_o die_v a_o penitent_a believer_n many_o instance_n of_o the_o same_o kind_n i_o can_v set_v down_o but_o i_o shall_v only_o add_v the_o follow_a instance_n i_o be_v go_v to_o see_v a_o friend_n that_o be_v sick_a and_o address_v myself_o to_o god_n in_o secret_a prayer_n before_o i_o go_v but_o a_o kind_n of_o terror_n seize_v my_o mind_n and_o word_n stop_v that_o i_o can_v not_o offer_v up_o one_o petition_n in_o any_o seriousness_n or_o with_o any_o hope_n of_o be_v hear_v for_o recovery_n and_o go_v to_o see_v the_o person_n find_v that_o they_o have_v be_v dead_a some_o time_n before_o this_o be_v a_o discovery_n to_o i_o that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n do_v often_o withdraw_v his_o assistance_n to_o ask_v for_o that_o which_o he_o know_v god_n will_v not_o bestow_v experience_n of_o god_n method_n of_o train_v i_o to_o the_o serious_a awful_a and_o delightful_a hear_n of_o sermon_n first_o by_o suit_v sermon_n upon_o a_o sabbath_n unexpected_o to_o thing_n my_o thought_n have_v great_o ruminate_v on_o through_o the_o week_n and_o by_o bear_v home_o instruction_n
other_o which_o whether_o external_n or_o internal_a if_o observe_v and_o remember_v will_v seal_v to_o soul_n the_o truth_n of_o christianity_n in_o opposition_n to_o all_o its_o opposer_n there_o be_v a_o clear_a discovery_n of_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n power_n and_o goodness_n in_o the_o different_a mean_n that_o god_n be_v please_v to_o use_v for_o the_o save_n of_o soul_n all_o which_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v with_o reverence_n and_o to_o be_v comply_v with_o by_o obedience_n the_o end_n of_o all_o be_v our_o holiness_n as_o preparatory_a to_o eternal_a happiness_n the_o first_o duty_n or_o mean_v i_o will_v have_v you_o apply_v yourselves_o to_o be_v that_o of_o observation_n of_o outward_a providence_n this_o have_v be_v so_o effectual_a in_o i_o i_o earnest_o recommend_v it_o to_o the_o serious_a practice_n of_o all_o concern_v for_o their_o salvation_n but_o that_o you_o may_v know_v in_o what_o method_n right_o to_o observe_v i_o will_v give_v its_o character_n in_o the_o part_n i_o have_v find_v so_o advantageous_a to_o myself_o first_o you_o must_v observe_v all_o sort_n of_o outward_a providence_n great_a and_o more_o remarkable_a lesser_a and_o not_o so_o palpable_a second_o you_o must_v observe_v all_o circumstance_n that_o attend_v such_o providence_n and_o set_v they_o upon_o record_n on_o purpose_n to_o reflect_v and_o compare_v one_o with_o the_o other_o many_o confirm_a providence_n have_v lose_v their_o favour_n and_o establish_v effect_n as_o much_o by_o miss_v some_o circumstance_n thereof_o as_o by_o forget_v of_o the_o whole_a by_o this_o neglect_n some_o have_v have_v misapprehension_n of_o god_n and_o false_a conceit_n of_o themselves_o the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n wherein_o that_o nobleman_n son_n be_v recover_v john_n 4.52_o exact_o answer_v the_o hour_n when_o christ_n say_v unto_o he_o thy_o son_n live_v be_v the_o convincing-proof_n that_o the_o cure_n be_v perform_v by_o christ_n and_o consequent_o of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o be_v send_v from_o god_n in_o like_a manner_n the_o observation_n of_o the_o return_n of_o my_o prayer_n with_o success_n answerable_a to_o the_o fervency_n of_o my_o desire_n and_o unsuccessfulness_n of_o prayer_n when_o i_o have_v be_v cold_a and_o not_o due_o affect_v in_o that_o duty_n have_v confirm_v my_o belief_n that_o it_o be_v from_o the_o excitation_n of_o christ_n spirit_n that_o enable_v i_o to_o pray_v and_o from_o his_o excellent_a goodness_n the_o return_n of_o my_o prayer_n three_o you_o must_v observe_v outward_a providence_n with_o improvement_n the_o lord_n design_n in_o lay_v passage_n of_o providence_n before_o you_o be_v not_o only_o to_o view_v they_o but_o to_o see_v he_o in_o they_o and_o thereby_o to_o understand_v his_o be_v with_o the_o glorious_a attribute_n of_o his_o wisdom_n power_n and_o lovingkindness_n to_o man_n and_o that_o with_o the_o suitable_a improvement_n of_o eye_v he_o in_o all_o thing_n seek_v to_o he_o for_o guidance_n in_o mean_n and_o happy_a event_n of_o all_o thing_n observation_n unimproved_a serve_v not_o god_n honour_n on_o earth_n and_o will_v serve_v yourselves_o no_o other_o way_n than_o by_o heap_v up_o aggravation_n to_o your_o accusation_n before_o the_o great_a judge_n tribunal_n for_o neglect_v to_o improve_v his_o precious_a talent_n by_o reliance_n upon_o he_o and_o glorify_v his_o love_n to_o excite_v your_o observation_n under_o these_o three_o character_n i_o will_v lay_v before_o you_o the_o follow_a motive_n first_o god_n own_o encouragement_n to_o it_o psal_n 109.43_o whoso_o be_v wise_a and_o will_v observe_v these_o thing_n they_o shall_v understand_v the_o lovingkindness_n of_o the_o lord_n if_o in_o god_n account_n observation_n be_v wisdom_n and_o accompany_v with_o the_o bless_a discovery_n of_o his_o lovingkindness_n can_v you_o blame_v my_o friendship_n in_o press_v you_o to_o make_v use_n thereof_o to_o obtain_v a_o wisdom_n to_o discover_v and_o baffle_v the_o falsehood_n and_o error_n of_o the_o foolish_a though_o wise_a in_o their_o own_o eye_n and_o to_o enjoy_v a_o sense_n of_o god_n divine_a favour_n the_o psalmist_n be_v give_v a_o account_n of_o some_o remarkable_a outward_a providence_n attend_v nation_n church_n and_o particular_a person_n and_o then_o conclude_v that_o who_o be_v so_o wise_a to_o observe_v such_o thing_n shall_v learn_v the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o his_o love_a kindness_n to_o their_o soul_n if_o christian_n of_o our_o age_n have_v but_o be_v exact_a in_o the_o observation_n of_o national_a church-providence_n our_o wisdom_n have_v more_o shine_v in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o gospel_n scriptural_a fulfilling_n have_v be_v more_o clear_a and_o error_n respect_v such_o thing_n have_v less_o abound_v than_o they_o do_v in_o our_o day_n what_o a_o little_a proportion_n of_o care_n do_v the_o public_a man_n of_o our_o age_n bear_v in_o record_v the_o marvellous_a step_n of_o providence_n concern_v the_o nation_n and_o church_n of_o the_o earth_n to_o that_o care_n of_o god_n public_a officer_n under_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n our_o civil_a record_n abound_v from_o one_o year_n to_o another_o with_o all_o testimony_n that_o advance_v the_o honour_n of_o prince_n and_o people_n but_o where_o be_v the_o record_n of_o a_o divine_a hand_n in_o the_o wonderful_a work_n of_o providence_n respect_v church_n nation_n and_o particular_a christian_n for_o the_o vindicate_a of_o his_o honour_n and_o the_o discovery_n of_o our_o infinite_a obligation_n to_o he_o that_o his_o authority_n may_v be_v bear_v up_o on_o earth_n and_o those_o discountenance_v who_o refuse_v the_o lord_n to_o reign_v over_o they_o what_o more_o cloud_n the_o discovery_n of_o god_n than_o the_o unmindfulness_n of_o divine_a providence_n in_o the_o room_n whereof_o the_o conduct_n of_o chance_n the_o agency_n of_o natural_a wit_n and_o policy_n have_v take_v place_n in_o our_o observation_n admiration_n and_o dependence_n and_o god_n have_v be_v neglect_v in_o his_o dispensation_n and_o trust_v with_o a_o boast_n in_o ourselves_o for_o the_o bring_n about_o event_n encourage_v if_o public_a providence_n concern_v our_o nation_n and_o church_n since_o our_o late_a revolution_n have_v be_v with_o all_o their_o circumstance_n strict_o remark_v and_o set_v upon_o record_n there_o be_v none_o of_o we_o but_o who_o can_v own_o god_n agency_n in_o they_o and_o make_v the_o word_n of_o the_o psalmist_n we_o they_o get_v not_o the_o land_n in_o possession_n by_o their_o own_o sword_n neither_o do_v their_o own_o arm_n save_v but_o thy_o right_a hand_n and_o thy_o arm_n and_o the_o light_n of_o thy_o countenance_n go_v along_o with_o they_o i_o hope_v though_o marvellous_a and_o national_a providence_n have_v not_o have_v place_n in_o any_o of_o our_o public_a record_n for_o fix_v the_o faith_n of_o a_o deity_n and_o his_o divine_a providence_n yet_o the_o private_a record_n of_o particular_a christian_n be_v fill_v therewith_o i_o say_v again_o his_o god_n be_v so_o visible_a in_o the_o outgoing_n of_o his_o providence_n since_o and_o at_o the_o late_a revolution_n and_o be_v we_o still_o attribute_v the_o event_n that_o have_v fall_v out_o for_o we_o to_o national_a strength_n of_o policy_n treasure_n and_o courage_n how_o often_o have_v god_n turn_v the_o most_o politic_a method_n of_o the_o wise_a to_o lay_v bare_a and_o open_v its_o insufficiency_n and_o how_o have_v the_o instrument_n of_o war_n adorn_v with_o courage_n be_v sweep_v off_o that_o from_o nation_n so_o abound_v therewith_o how_o few_o appear_v at_o this_o day_n how_o near_o be_v our_o treasure_n to_o be_v exhaust_v by_o vast_a expense_n of_o war_n and_o by_o scarcity_n of_o current_a money_n have_v this_o no_o language_n or_o have_v its_o voice_n never_o enter_v the_o ear_n and_o heart_n of_o the_o people_n of_o the_o nation_n it_o be_v the_o black_a sign_n to_o i_o the_o little_a sight_n of_o god_n in_o his_o providence_n though_o he_o have_v be_v so_o visible_a and_o the_o little_a improvement_n thereof_o by_o dependence_n upon_o he_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n though_o our_o mean_n be_v few_o and_o of_o less_o strength_n it_o shall_v not_o afford_v i_o so_o dismal_a a_o prospect_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v as_o the_o disregard_n of_o god_n in_o all_o our_o enjoyment_n the_o little_a dependence_n we_o show_v upon_o god_n by_o our_o solemn_a and_o serious_a address_n to_o he_o and_o by_o our_o endeavour_n to_o please_v he_o in_o walk_v conform_v to_o his_o will._n do_v ever_o error_n and_o vice_n abound_v more_o in_o our_o reform_a nation_n be_v christian_n ever_o more_o lazy_a than_o in_o our_o day_n spend_v their_o time_n in_o the_o full_a excess_n of_o riot_n of_o all_o those_o thing_n that_o god_n in_o condescend_v love_n have_v bestow_v upon_o we_o and_o thereby_o distinguish_v we_o from_o other_o nation_n how_o many_o time_n do_v god_n bring_v private_a
thing_n more_o marvellous_a in_o their_o nature_n more_o dignify_n our_o soul_n and_o more_o comfortable_o establish_v our_o faith_n in_o god_n word_n than_o a_o series_n of_o outward_a event_n the_o free_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o power_n of_o original_a corruption_n by_o the_o sweet_a dominion_n of_o grace_n the_o degree_n of_o spiritual_a growth_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n appoint_v by_o god_n for_o that_o bless_a end_n will_v be_v of_o excellent_a advantage_n to_o increase_v in_o the_o soul_n light_n and_o joy_n and_o establishment_n a_o observer_n of_o such_o thing_n be_v enable_v to_o see_v good_a where_o other_o discover_v nothing_o but_o evil_a and_o evil_a where_o other_o think_v all_o be_v good_a he_o be_v arrive_v to_o the_o eminent_a degree_n of_o those_o christian_n who_o in_o the_o 5_o chapter_n of_o the_o hebrew_n and_o the_o 14_o be_v say_v to_o be_v such_o who_o by_o reason_n of_o use_n have_v their_o sense_n exercise_v to_o discern_v both_o good_a and_o evil_a who_o by_o habitual_a observation_n of_o god_n way_n by_o his_o spirit_n and_o providence_n concern_v they_o be_v enable_v to_o see_v the_o design_n and_o end_n of_o providence_n not_o mistake_v the_o merciful_a method_n of_o god_n deal_n with_o they_o as_o the_o effect_n of_o anger_n nor_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o grace_n for_o a_o punishment_n for_o want_n of_o it_o and_o thereby_o dishonour_n god_n and_o sink_v under_o despondency_n they_o can_v rejoice_v in_o tribulation_n the_o bless_a privilege_n of_o those_o who_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o favour_n with_o god_n rom._n 5._o and_o feel_v a_o power_n above_o themselves_o support_v they_o in_o all_o trouble_n it_o be_v therefore_o to_o be_v lament_v that_o such_o instruct_n and_o comfort_v thing_n be_v lay_v in_o our_o way_n to_o observe_v and_o yet_o that_o so_o many_o with_o their_o circumstance_n shall_v pass_v without_o record_n and_o improvement_n though_o christian_n be_v assure_v that_o god_n gift_n be_v without_o repentance_n that_o they_o have_v the_o evidence_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o soul_n and_o be_v keep_v steadfast_a in_o that_o grace_n god_n have_v free_o bestow_v yet_o by_o their_o not_o observe_v god_n mean_n work_v and_o the_o proportion_a advancement_n of_o grace_n to_o such_o mean_n they_o be_v not_o so_o due_o affect_v with_o the_o infinite_a mercy_n of_o god_n nor_o so_o comfortable_o sensible_a of_o his_o gracious_a deal_n with_o they_o nor_o so_o firm_o establish_v in_o the_o hope_n that_o he_o will_v not_o cease_v his_o work_n in_o they_o till_o they_o be_v make_v meet_a for_o the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n the_o observing-christians_a have_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o angel_n though_o in_o a_o low_a degree_n to_o see_v the_o face_n of_o god_n they_o have_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o heaven_n by_o the_o assurance_n of_o it_o they_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a love_n joy_n and_o praise_n which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o heaven_n i_o will_v from_o hence_o reprove_v those_o professor_n who_o by_o their_o neglect_n coldness_n and_o long_a intermission_n from_o holy_a duty_n be_v just_o deprive_v of_o the_o sweetness_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n and_o be_v apt_a to_o censure_v other_o who_o be_v more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a in_o their_o conversation_n as_o fantastic_a and_o enthusiastical_a a_o instance_n whereof_o i_o have_v by_o a_o aspersion_n of_o some_o minister_n upon_o the_o write_n of_o a_o saint_n now_o triumphant_a in_o heaven_n who_o life_n be_v employ_v in_o study_n to_o understand_v god_n word_n and_o the_o act_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o the_o soul_n by_o which_o holy_a care_n and_o the_o divine_a favour_n he_o obtain_v the_o precious_a jewel_n of_o assurance_n and_o for_o many_o year_n be_v possess_v of_o it_o the_o aspersion_n run_v against_o he_o as_o a_o thoughtful_a melancholy_a person_n of_o the_o latter_a he_o have_v very_o little_a but_o of_o the_o former_a much_o more_o i_o do_v believe_v than_o his_o asperser_n and_o what_o be_v become_v the_o weight_n of_o the_o matter_n his_o thought_n run_v most_o upon_o often_o bemoan_v the_o trifle_n superficial_a thought_n of_o the_o christian_n of_o our_o time_n concern_v gospel-mystery_n christianity_n experience_v our_o passage_n hence_o and_o concern_v another_o state_n in_o its_o certainty_n and_o eternity_n the_o aspersion_n also_o run_v against_o he_o for_o lay_v stress_n upon_o enlargement_n in_o prayer_n and_o that_o concern_v inward_a religion_n his_o discourse_n be_v unintelligible_a in_o answer_n to_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o censure_n i_o can_v from_o my_o own_o bless_a experience_n declare_v that_o i_o have_v have_v the_o promise_n verify_v to_o i_o of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v help_v our_o infirmity_n direct_v i_o in_o the_o thing_n to_o be_v pray_v for_o and_o inflame_v my_o desire_n in_o the_o duty_n and_o strengthen_v my_o faith_n in_o the_o power_n and_o love_n of_o god_n and_o the_o return_v of_o my_o prayer_n have_v be_v most_o convince_a and_o comfort_v evidence_n that_o god_n spirit_n be_v the_o indict_a of_o that_o prayer_n of_o which_o god_n be_v the_o fulfiller_n to_o the_o other_o part_n of_o the_o censure_n i_o shall_v only_o say_v that_o the_o communication_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n be_v more_o convince_o feel_v then_o express_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n pass_v all_o understanding_n and_o the_o comfortable_a sense_n of_o it_o can_v be_v full_o set_v forth_o by_o human_a language_n but_o the_o real_a enjoyment_n be_v far_o distant_a from_o enthusiasm_n the_o sincere_a christian_a know_v that_o communion_n with_o god_n be_v a_o heaven_n on_o earth_n though_o some_o who_o have_v only_o notional_a divinity_n think_v it_o be_v mere_o imagination_n without_o reality_n our_o communion_n with_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o the_o use_n of_o divine_a ordinance_n be_v the_o best_a preservative_n from_o the_o illusion_n of_o satan_n and_o the_o distemper_a mind_n have_v give_v reproof_n let_v i_o advise_v all_o such_o who_o expose_v the_o high_a attainment_n of_o christianity_n experience_v to_o reflect_v upon_o their_o bypass_a life_n if_o exactness_n of_o observation_n of_o all_o past_a between_o god_n and_o their_o soul_n either_o as_o mean_n or_o the_o end_n lie_v by_o they_o upon_o record_n in_o their_o diaries_n and_o whether_o they_o have_v not_o rest_v upon_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n as_o duty_n without_o observe_v and_o record_v the_o enjoyment_n therein_o and_o their_o advancing-effect_n upon_o their_o soul_n and_o have_v not_o rest_v upon_o evidence_n without_o ever_o observe_v by_o what_o mean_n and_o method_n of_o god_n they_o be_v first_o make_v sensible_a of_o they_o or_o have_v they_o further_o establish_v have_v there_o never_o a_o step_n of_o outward_a providence_n round_o you_o past_o your_o observation_n and_o search_v for_o god_n therein_o or_o as_o a_o return_n to_o prayer_n for_o that_o bless_a end_n of_o crush_a a_o corruption_n and_o exciting_a a_o grace_n in_o short_a have_v all_o the_o step_n of_o god_n in_o train_v you_o to_o the_o sense_n of_o conversion_n and_o grace_n after_o growth_n be_v remark_v by_o you_o if_o you_o can_v witness_v this_o i_o be_o confident_a you_o have_v attain_v to_o the_o experience_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o will_v keep_v you_o off_o from_o censure_v other_o and_o engage_v you_o to_o bear_v seal_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o christ_n bear_v sensible_o on_o the_o christian_n soul_n but_o if_o upon_o reflection_n you_o have_v be_v out_o of_o this_o road_n my_o compassion_n be_v great_o towards_o you_o even_o though_o you_o be_v christian_n indeed_o and_o that_o because_o of_o the_o great_a comfort_n withhold_v from_o you_o it_o be_v punishment_n enough_o to_o want_v the_o comfort_n that_o strict_a observer_n enjoy_v in_o this_o life_n and_o general_o there_o lodge_v at_o the_o bottom_n of_o such_o censurer_n either_o ignorance_n of_o the_o same_o enjoyment_n from_o heaven_n a_o unwillingness_n to_o have_v any_o in_o great_a esteem_n than_o yourselves_o or_o prejudices_fw-la from_o their_o be_v of_o another_o party_n opinion_n or_o the_o like_a all_o which_o i_o will_v great_o advise_v to_o serious_a observation_n of_o themselves_o before_o their_o censure_n be_v put_v forth_o against_o other_o for_o my_o own_o part_n i_o have_v often_o find_v from_o some_o instruct_n and_o establish_v passage_n such_o amaze_a discovery_n of_o god_n and_o myself_o that_o i_o have_v think_v nothing_o more_o can_v be_v add_v thereto_o but_o soon_o after_o i_o have_v have_v a_o further_a knowledge_n and_o establishment_n in_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o that_o by_o another_o passage_n caution_n enough_o to_o suppress_v disparagement_n of_o other_o but_o from_o their_o example_n to_o bestir_v thyself_o more_o than_o ever_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n if_o a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v to_o live_v thousand_o of_o year_n on_o
command_n of_o pray_v without_o cease_v even_o amid_o diligent_a endeavour_n in_o business_n and_o outward_a lawful_a pleasure_n as_o well_o as_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o morning_n noon_n and_o evening_n sacrifice_n my_o challenge_n therefore_o take_v place_n when_o exactness_n in_o that_o circumstance_n proceed_v from_o no_o other_o foundation_n than_o that_o of_o education_n or_o guide_v by_o no_o other_o rule_n than_o that_o of_o other_o example_n and_o tend_v towards_o no_o other_o end_n than_o applause_n or_o please_v themselves_o by_o their_o customariness_n therein_o the_o former_a experience_n of_o myself_o under_o the_o alone_a power_n of_o education_n and_o now_o under_o the_o power_n of_o christianity_n give_v i_o occasion_n to_o reprehend_v this_o error_n have_v then_o find_v myself_o more_o uneasy_a at_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o set-time_n of_o prayer_n than_o i_o be_o at_o this_o day_n when_o a_o lawful_a occurrence_n fall_v in_o my_o way_n to_o hinder_v my_o performance_n of_o prayer_n at_o my_o usual_a set-time_n than_o i_o have_v find_v myself_o still_o under_o anxiety_n for_o the_o omission_n only_o but_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n my_o experience_n be_v such_o that_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n the_o continual_a desire_n of_o my_o soul_n be_v neither_o confine_v to_o set-word_n nor_o set-time_n of_o prayer_n and_o follow_v with_o as_o evident_a return_n when_o put_v forth_o in_o ejaculation_n as_o when_o in_o solemn_a prayer_n three_o a_o lay_v too_o great_a a_o weight_n upon_o the_o performance_n of_o prayer_n in_o form_n or_o extemporary_a be_v a_o error_n of_o education_n the_o frame_n and_o posture_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o prayer_n be_v the_o touchstone_n of_o its_o right_a performance_n and_o therefore_o either_o of_o which_o the_o christian_a find_v most_o raise_v a_o spiritual_a frame_n that_o i_o think_v safe_a for_o a_o christian_n to_o stick_v to_o for_o my_o own_o part_n without_o regard_n to_o the_o opinion_n and_o way_n either_o of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n or_o dissenter_n but_o pure_o to_o personal_a experience_n found_v i_o hope_v upon_o scripture-revelation_n i_o must_v say_v that_o when_o in_o closet_n or_o family-prayer_n my_o frame_n of_o mind_n have_v be_v raise_v to_o great_a spirituality_n and_o heavenliness_n my_o word_n then_o have_v run_v from_o i_o with_o a_o amaze_a freedom_n and_o current_n and_o in_o a_o most_o affect_a way_n to_o myself_o and_o other_o from_o whence_o i_o must_v imagine_v that_o the_o soul_n confine_v himself_o to_o word_n in_o a_o form_n of_o prayer_n give_v a_o occasional_a hindrance_n of_o this_o spiritual_a frame_n by_o confinement_n to_o what_o be_v design_v to_o be_v utter_v and_o so_o keep_v off_o such_o divine_a influence_n which_o we_o be_v uncapable_a of_o bound_v either_o in_o the_o frame_n of_o the_o soul_n or_o in_o the_o christian_n outward_a expression_n again_o there_o be_v a_o mighty_a difference_n between_o a_o christian_n seriousness_n when_o nothing_o else_o be_v sensible_o productive_a thereof_o but_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o creature_n be_v self_n by_o the_o mean_n either_o of_o think_v upon_o god_n all_o see_v eye_n upon_o the_o greatness_n of_o the_o majesty_n approach_v to_o or_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o draw_v off_o the_o thought_n from_o distract_n thing_n there_o be_v vast_a difference_n i_o say_v between_o this_o serious_a frame_n and_o a_o spiritual_a heavenly_a frame_n sensible_o sudden_o and_o powerful_o influence_v the_o soul_n without_o any_o thing_n of_o self_n unless_o as_o in_o the_o use_n of_o prayer_n but_o sensible_o raise_v from_o a_o high_a hand_n to_o thought_n and_o word_n far_o beyond_o the_o other_o i_o bless_v the_o lord_n without_o the_o latter_a i_o be_o never_o satisfy_v and_o i_o know_v the_o first_o may_v be_v perform_v and_o yet_o without_o sensible_a fellowship_n with_o god_n but_o perhaps_o real_a fellowship_n with_o he_o by_o his_o strengthen_v influence_n and_o nothing_o more_o fix_v the_o thought_n from_o diversion_n or_o discover_v self_n and_o christ_n spiritual_a influence_n and_o carry_v the_o soul_n more_o out_o of_o self_n to_o cry_v and_o depend_v on_o christ_n supply_n than_o such_o extemporary_a prayer_n with_o observation_n but_o if_o this_o experience_n can_v be_v oppose_v by_o other_o who_o for_o any_o thing_n i_o know_v may_v find_v less_o distraction_n and_o great_a heavenliness_n of_o frame_n in_o a_o form_a prayer_n whatever_o their_o opinion_n be_v i_o shall_v never_o offer_v my_o censure_n against_o the_o circumstance_n of_o form_v or_o extemporary_a prayer_n be_v only_o to_o be_v accuse_v when_o either_o it_o be_v perform_v stick_v to_o and_o plead_v for_o because_o of_o education_n and_o not_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o being_n a_o better_a mean_n towards_o perform_v of_o prayer_n in_o a_o more_o heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a manner_n if_o our_o concern_v run_v more_o upon_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o soul_n frame_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n than_o upon_o the_o various_a method_n of_o their_o outward_a performance_n the_o common_a distinction_n of_o opinion_n and_o quarrelling_n about_o needless_a circumstance_n will_v soon_o be_v abandon_v i_o dissent_v from_o all_o though_o of_o my_o own_o opinion_n who_o lie_v weight_n upon_o any_o circumstance_n but_o in_o so_o far_o as_o it_o contribute_v to_o great_a spirituality_n in_o prayer_n and_o shall_v never_o censure_v those_o of_o another_o opinion_n who_o stick_v fast_o to_o some_o circumstance_n and_o thereby_o differ_v from_o i_o pure_o because_o such_o circumstance_n be_v more_o serviceable_a to_o their_o soul_n in_o raise_v their_o frame_n to_o great_a spirituality_n than_o when_o otherwise_o perform_v but_o to_o be_v strict_a in_o their_o use_n and_o to_o plead_v for_o they_o in_o conversation_n pure_o because_o of_o be_v educate_v with_o they_o without_o try_v the_o contrary_a way_n plead_v for_o and_o experience_v by_o other_o seem_v to_o i_o the_o product_n of_o self_n rather_o than_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n again_o i_o be_o of_o the_o opinion_n that_o child_n educate_v with_o form_n of_o prayer_n be_v lead_v to_o great_a laziness_n in_o their_o more_o grow_v year_n and_o often_o prove_v a_o mean_a of_o render_v they_o secure_a without_o fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o duty_n not_o as_o if_o i_o confine_v god_n spiritual_a influence_n to_o a_o extemporary_a prayer_n or_o that_o there_o be_v never_o a_o spiritual_a frame_n in_o pray_v with_o form_n but_o that_o the_o latter_a more_o confine_n the_o soul_n with_o its_o thought_n in_o the_o duty_n and_o so_o fit_v the_o soul_n far_o less_o to_o receive_v spiritual_a breathe_n than_o a_o extemporary_a prayer_n and_o when_o a_o soul_n in_o the_o use_n of_o form_n in_o prayer_n be_v raise_v by_o christ_n spirit_n to_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n i_o think_v i_o may_v say_v that_o then_o the_o soul_n go_v beyond_o the_o path_n of_o form_n it_o begin_v the_o prayer_n in_o and_o reach_v further_a in_o expression_n than_o what_o his_o soul_n design_v by_o his_o usual_a form_n four_o a_o lay_v too_o great_a a_o weight_n upon_o the_o circumstance_n of_o length_n in_o prayer_n be_v another_o error_n of_o education_n especial_o among_o the_o youth_n of_o dissenter_n who_o be_v as_o much_o please_v herewith_o as_o those_o of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v with_o form_n in_o prayer_n length_n in_o prayer_n i_o accuse_v not_o absolute_o for_o if_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n and_o admit_v to_o near_a approach_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n its_o delight_n therein_o be_v such_o that_o it_o be_v unwilling_a to_o yea_o can_v hardly_o give_v over_o but_o when_o length_n in_o prayer_n proceed_v from_o no_o other_o foundation_n than_o education_n or_o custom_n it_o be_v a_o circumstance_n no_o way_n promote_a the_o soul_n heavenliness_n in_o it_o or_o god_n acceptance_n of_o it_o there_o be_v many_o who_o from_o be_v train_v up_o in_o the_o way_n of_o extemporary_a prayer_n can_v with_o strength_n of_o memory_n judgement_n and_o readiness_n of_o expression_n lengthen_v out_o prayer_n to_o their_o own_o conceit_n and_o satisfaction_n and_o with_o applause_n from_o other_o and_o yet_o never_o know_v at_o the_o same_o time_n the_o meaning_n of_o access_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n it_o be_v a_o consideration_n that_o have_v often_o move_v i_o to_o concern_v for_o some_o under_o good_a education_n and_o religious_a character_n but_o altogether_o unacquainted_a with_o inward_a religion_n the_o meaning_n of_o outward_a worship_n to_o god_n be_v to_o honour_v he_o on_o earth_n among_o ourselves_o and_o the_o service_n that_o be_v proportion_v to_o god_n be_v spiritual_a in_o the_o soul_n expression_n be_v no_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n to_o he_o unless_o upon_o that_o account_n of_o spiritual_a worship_n it_o be_v that_o which_o assimilate_v a_o man_n most_o to_o god_n and_o bring_v a_o man_n soon_o to_o the_o knowledge_n
the_o method_n bring_v it_o about_o lose_v thereby_o the_o actual_a excitement_n of_o the_o excellent_a grace_n and_o so_o miss_v of_o much_o comfort_n and_o light_n that_o other_o enjoy_v four_o you_o may_v judge_v of_o the_o intercession_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o your_o prayer_n by_o the_o never-failing_a correspondency_n between_o a_o prayer_n perform_v as_o be_v express_v and_o a_o return_n thereto_o this_o be_v according_a to_o god_n own_o word_n and_o the_o experience_n of_o diligent_a true_a observe_v christian_n and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o among_o thousand_o of_o experience_n train_v i_o to_o the_o knowledge_n thereof_o and_o establishment_n therein_o i_o shall_v have_v meet_v with_o one_o contradict_v it_o i_o know_v i_o have_v meet_v with_o many_o passage_n upon_o my_o advancement_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n way_n that_o at_o first_o view_n seem_v great_o oppose_v of_o this_o and_o if_o a_o strict_a observation_n have_v be_v intermit_v the_o shake_n of_o my_o faith_n or_o mistake_v therein_o have_v be_v the_o consequence_n but_o keep_v strict_a to_o observation_n of_o providence_n present_a and_o reflection_n upon_o past_a one_o with_o patient_a wait_v the_o full_a sight_n of_o the_o return_n to_o prayer_n appear_v with_o that_o improvement_n of_o be_v more_o serious_a and_o considerate_a in_o the_o observation_n and_o compare_v god_n way_n of_o providence_n and_o inward_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n according_a to_o his_o revealed_z will._n i_o will_v subjoin_v to_o these_o few_o mark_n of_o prayer_n with_o the_o intercession_n of_o christ_n spirit_n some_o thing_n you_o be_v to_o beware_v of_o as_o occasion_n of_o mistake_v this_o prayer_n and_o delude_v you_o with_o a_o false_a resemblance_n of_o it_o and_o something_o i_o will_v advise_v your_o observation_n of_o that_o may_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o lead_v you_o into_o the_o performance_n of_o prayer_n aright_o and_o thereby_o a_o opportunity_n of_o obtain_v christ_n spiritual_a influence_n therein_o i_o begin_v with_o the_o latter_a first_o be_v advise_v to_o enter_v upon_o private_a prayer_n without_o any_o discomposure_n of_o spirit_n from_o the_o thing_n temporal_a that_o pleasant_o affect_v we_o the_o thought_n of_o they_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o rush_v themselves_o upon_o your_o remembrance_n i_o can_v easy_o set_v down_o the_o many_o prayer_n i_o have_v have_v spoil_v by_o such_o thing_n rush_v upon_o my_o thought_n at_o the_o time_n but_o circumstance_n will_v not_o permit_v second_o without_o any_o vexation_n upon_o your_o spirit_n unless_o you_o use_v prayer_n in_o such_o a_o circumstance_n as_o a_o help_n to_o quiet_v your_o mind_n and_o to_o suppress_v the_o further_o rise_v of_o corrupt_a motion_n for_o which_o end_n i_o dare_v recommend_v private_a prayer_n as_o a_o heal_a mean_n three_o have_v your_o thought_n as_o free_v of_o worldly_a person_n and_o thing_n as_o possible_o you_o can_v otherways_o pass_v immediate_o from_o conversation_n with_o the_o world_n you_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o cast_v a_o linger_a look_n back_o upon_o the_o world_n and_o to_o have_v thought_n steal_v into_o you_o which_o will_v hinder_v the_o spirit_n be_v assistance_n to_o prey_n in_o the_o manner_n before_o charecterized_a four_o do_v not_o cursory_o perform_v the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n to_o satisfy_v your_o mind_n that_o you_o have_v discharge_v the_o duty_n and_o till_o night_n you_o be_v not_o to_o return_v to_o it_o but_o consider_v that_o prayer_n be_v not_o only_o a_o duty_n but_o a_o heavenly_a privilege_n wherein_o we_o may_v with_o a_o filial_a freedom_n address_v ourselves_o to_o the_o lord_n almighty_a as_o our_o father_n who_o from_o the_o infinite_a treasure_n of_o his_o love_n will_v supply_v all_o our_o want_n and_o satisfy_v all_o our_o regular_a desire_n therefore_o let_v we_o be_v liberal_a in_o the_o time_n for_o that_o duty_n by_o continuance_n in_o prayer_n our_o heart_n be_v more_o full_o possess_v with_o god_n and_o by_o wrestle_v with_o he_o we_o get_v a_o holy_a heat_n of_o affection_n though_o in_o our_o entrance_n into_o the_o duty_n we_o be_v but_o cold_o affect_v these_o be_v some_o of_o the_o hindrance_n which_o a_o christian_a be_v to_o watch_v against_o and_o there_o be_v many_o other_o which_o the_o observe_a christian_n will_v discover_v and_o endeavour_v to_o prevent_v concern_v the_o other_o to_o wit_n the_o occasion_n of_o mistake_v the_o natural_a work_n of_o the_o affection_n for_o the_o spirit_n be_v work_n in_o prayer_n i_o shall_v first_o in_o general_n say_v that_o the_o not_o consider_v the_o state_n of_o the_o soul_n first_o design_v to_o pray_v in_o pray_v and_o after_o prayer_n lead_v into_o many_o mistake_n according_a to_o the_o inward_a and_o habitual_a frame_n of_o the_o soul_n such_o be_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o affection_n in_o that_o duty_n and_o usual_o such_o be_v the_o influence_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n second_o the_o judge_v that_o common_a seriousness_n in_o christian_a duty_n be_v all_o the_o spirituality_n that_o be_v necessary_a or_o attainable_a may_v be_v a_o occasion_n of_o mistake_n for_o this_o will_v make_v they_o content_a without_o seek_v for_o supernatural_a influence_n and_o without_o the_o perception_n of_o they_o close_o walk_v with_o god_n in_o the_o often_o use_v of_o prayer_n be_v the_o best_a help_n to_o train_v this_o soul_n in_o the_o further_a knowledge_n of_o the_o breathe_n of_o christ_n spirit_n three_o a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a seriousness_n from_o the_o ardent_a desire_n of_o obtain_v the_o thing_n petition_v for_o may_v impose_v upon_o some_o with_o its_o resemblance_n to_o spirituality_n as_o also_o a_fw-fr christian_n indifferency_n in_o obtain_v a_o thing_n pray_v for_o may_v impose_v a_o resemblance_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o straighten_n in_o prayer_n through_o christ_n withdrawing_n four_o the_o rational_a hope_n of_o obtain_v our_o petition_n or_o the_o rational_a improbability_n of_o obtain_v may_v sometime_o impose_v a_o resemblance_n of_o spirituality_n and_o constraint_n in_o prayer_n a_o experience_n whereof_o i_o have_v have_v concern_v friend_n dangerous_o ill_a who_o in_o my_o thought_n and_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o their_o physician_n have_v be_v die_v from_o which_o seem_v certainty_n of_o their_o die_v i_o have_v have_v a_o unwillingness_n as_o be_v altogether_o needless_a to_o pray_v for_o they_o i_o remember_v of_o a_o child_n who_o be_v dangerous_o ill_a without_o sensible_a pulse_n cold_a as_o clay_n and_o in_o the_o opinion_n of_o all_o die_v or_o dead_a which_o rational_a conjecture_n so_o impress_v i_o as_o to_o restrain_v i_o from_o prayer_n concern_v it_o but_o next_o morning_n in_o my_o closet_n prayer_n not_o design_v a_o petition_n for_o the_o child_n suppose_v it_o then_o assure_o dead_a a_o sudden_a seriousness_n and_o spirituality_n seize_v i_o carry_v i_o forth_o in_o prayer_n for_o this_o child_n which_o at_o first_o astonish_v my_o thought_n till_o send_v to_o know_v if_o alive_a i_o hear_v of_o its_o life_n and_o great_a amendment_n to_o the_o praise_n of_o the_o infinite_a condescension_n of_o god_n i_o shall_v mention_v two_o direction_n as_o preventive_a of_o error_n and_o mistake_v in_o the_o observation_n of_o prayer_n and_o the_o enjoyment_n accompany_v it_o and_o that_o as_o a_o encouragement_n to_o weak_a christian_n to_o use_v these_o mean_n without_o fear_n or_o doubt_v of_o god_n wise_a and_o love_a conduct_n of_o they_o to_o preserve_v they_o from_o error_n unless_o god_n permission_n thereof_o be_v for_o the_o christian_n good_n take_v that_o way_n to_o establish_v grace_n strong_a in_o the_o soul_n first_o his_o impress_v i_o at_o the_o time_n with_o the_o true_a state_n of_o the_o matter_n that_o never_o to_o my_o remembrance_n be_v i_o under_o false_a resemblance_n of_o spirituality_n or_o constraint_n in_o prayer_n but_o at_o the_o time_n i_o have_v some_o discovery_n of_o it_o second_o such_o danger_n never_o occur_v to_o my_o experience_n till_o god_n have_v establish_v my_o right_a knowledge_n both_o of_o spirituality_n and_o constraint_n in_o prayer_n and_o that_o by_o experience_n in_o abundance_n a_o part_n of_o which_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o historical_a part_n of_o this_o discourse_n i_o say_v this_o as_o a_o witness_n for_o god_n condescension_n and_o wisdom_n in_o train_v the_o sincere_a diligent_a christian_a groan_v after_o the_o true_a knowledge_n of_o god_n way_n in_o the_o right_a use_n of_o mean_n yet_o i_o say_v it_o not_o to_o encourage_v laziness_n either_o in_o the_o beginning_n or_o more_o grow_v christian_a but_o excite_v they_o to_o more_o serious_a and_o strict_a observation_n of_o their_o soul_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v deceive_v i_o find_v it_o more_o common_a with_o private_a christian_n than_o former_o to_o observe_v enlargement_n in_o prayer_n and_o constraint_n therein_o as_o forerunner_n of_o their_o enjoy_v or_o not_o
in_o the_o lord_n be_v afford_v i_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n and_o the_o intercession_n of_o his_o divine_a spirit_n for_o a_o event_n in_o prayer_n when_o all_o hope_n from_o any_o thing_n else_o have_v be_v remove_v and_o no_o ground_n of_o hope_n leave_v but_o what_o be_v draw_v from_o this_o frame_n of_o soul_n in_o prayer_n and_o the_o full_a quiet_a of_o mind_n concern_v the_o event_n bring_v forth_o by_o the_o same_o divine_a hand_n i_o can_v set_v down_o numerous_a instance_n of_o the_o imminency_n of_o death_n to_o friend_n and_o acquaintance_n where_o nothing_o of_o probable_a hope_n be_v leave_v but_o what_o be_v drawâ—_n from_o this_o experience_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n intercede_v with_o i_o by_o carry_v i_o out_o to_o ask_v in_o a_o manner_n far_o above_o myself_o for_o their_o recovery_n and_o then_o against_o all_o probable_a expectation_n the_o recovery_n have_v follow_v yea_o at_o this_o very_a time_n i_o can_v instance_n a_o child_n who_o for_o some_o time_n be_v lay_v out_o as_o dead_a but_o in_o my_o humble_a hope_n alive_a and_o that_o pure_o from_o the_o sensible_a power_n give_v i_o to_o ask_v its_o life_n of_o the_o lord_n who_o know_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n as_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n alone_o know_v the_o secret_a thought_n and_o will_n of_o man_n and_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n know_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o his_o design_n of_o bestow_v a_o event_n unknown_a to_o ourselves_o it_o be_v not_o so_o strange_a that_o unexpected_o and_o sudden_o in_o the_o use_n of_o that_o bless_a duty_n of_o prayer_n christ_n spirit_n shall_v breathe_v upon_o we_o strength_n to_o ask_v what_o we_o design_v not_o but_o what_o he_o know_v will_v be_v through_o that_o method_n discover_v the_o reality_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n who_o be_v to_o help_v our_o infirmity_n who_o neither_o know_v what_o to_o ask_v nor_o how_o to_o ask_v of_o ourselves_o only_o by_o keep_v in_o the_o obedience_n of_o god_n will_n to_o prayer_n and_o thereby_o lay_v ourselves_o in_o god_n road_n to_o receive_v divine_a direction_n both_o to_o ask_v what_o we_o do_v not_o premeditate_v and_o in_o a_o manner_n above_o our_o own_o natural_a corrupt_a capacity_n if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n against_o a_o event_n no_o wonder_n he_o draw_v his_o divine_a influence_n from_o the_o soul_n in_o petition_v to_o obtain_v it_o and_o no_o other_o warmth_n in_o prayer_n appear_v than_o what_o be_v the_o product_n of_o self_n and_o the_o great_a desire_n of_o obtain_v it_o far_o differ_v from_o that_o seriousness_n that_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n the_o right_a observation_n whereof_o great_o help_v the_o christian_n to_o distinguish_v the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o i_o know_v that_o great_a care_n be_v here_o to_o be_v take_v not_o to_o entertain_v hope_n of_o obtain_v every_o petition_n that_o god_n have_v not_o absolute_o promise_v or_o by_o petition_v without_o resignation_n to_o his_o will_n but_o from_o experience_n of_o god_n condescending-way_n of_o train_v up_o babe_n in_o christianity_n i_o hope_v i_o may_v say_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n never_o intercede_v with_o we_o in_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o to_o be_v obtain_v or_o without_o resignation_n to_o his_o bless_a will_n and_o any_o mistake_v herein_o must_v slow_a from_o either_o of_o these_o two_o reason_n first_o from_o a_o ignorance_n when_o christ_n spirit_n do_v intercede_v with_o we_o in_o prayer_n a_o natural_a tender_a affectionate_a constitution_n and_o a_o ardent_a desire_n after_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o impose_v a_o likeness_n thereof_o in_o some_o and_o continual_a thoughtfulness_n of_o mind_n or_o a_o sweet_a tone_n and_o way_n of_o expression_n bring_v sometime_o other_o to_o a_o likeness_n of_o this_o frame_n whereas_o the_o observe_a christian_a from_o care_n therein_o find_v this_o prayer_n come_v sudden_o upon_o he_o and_o with_o full_a gale_n of_o strength_n far_o above_o his_o own_o draw_v himself_o forth_o with_o that_o filial_a boldness_n and_o near_a familiarity_n and_o approach_n to_o god_n and_o with_o that_o quiet_a of_o mind_n concern_v the_o matter_n as_o if_o its_o answer_n be_v already_o return_v the_o observe_v experience_n whereof_o help_v the_o soul_n to_o answer_v all_o such_o cautionary_a objection_n and_o discover_v to_o its_o experience_n that_o resignation_n to_o god_n will_n go_v along_o with_o the_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n to_o make_v up_o the_o evidence_n of_o christ_n spirit_n help_v we_o to_o ask_v without_o either_o of_o which_o the_o evidence_n seem_v cloudy_a dull_a and_o uncertain_a or_o second_o mistake_v may_v come_v by_o misapply_v the_o return_n of_o prayer_n through_o too_o soon_o judge_v of_o the_o prayer_n return_v or_o by_o apply_v prayer_n to_o somewhat_o else_o than_o be_v the_o real_a return_n of_o the_o prayer_n the_o effect_n whereof_o have_v be_v oft_o so_o evil_a that_o even_o many_o gracious_a child_n of_o god_n have_v be_v lead_v into_o darkness_n keep_v from_o that_o sense_n of_o intimacy_n that_o real_o they_o have_v judge_v their_o prayer_n unreturned_a or_o at_o least_o bring_v they_o under_o great_a thoughtfulness_n though_o their_o faith_n be_v fix_v upon_o god_n word_n yet_o how_o to_o reconcile_v former_a experience_n to_o this_o of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n be_v interceding_n for_o they_o and_o yet_o unreturned_a my_o great_a help_n against_o such_o mistake_n have_v be_v a_o exact_a observation_n of_o my_o different_a utterance_n as_o well_o as_o my_o different_a frames_n in_o prayer_n and_o to_o set_v down_o the_o very_a word_n express_v therein_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n give_v and_o help_v the_o utterance_n of_o minister_n as_o well_o as_o spiritualise_v their_o mind_n in_o preach_v that_o be_v recommend_v by_o paul_n as_o a_o fit_a petition_n upon_o his_o account_n and_o experience_v as_o truth_n by_o the_o worthy_a of_o his_o minister_n why_o not_o to_o give_v and_o to_o help_v utterance_n in_o prayer_n as_o well_o as_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n therein_o whatever_o other_o imagine_v or_o ridicule_n concern_v familiarity_n of_o style_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n i_o can_v true_o say_v that_o when_o my_o frame_n of_o soul_n have_v be_v thus_o sudden_o change_v from_o lifelesness_n to_o great_a spirituality_n i_o have_v then_o be_v in_o a_o maze_n to_o experience_n a_o unusual_a freeness_n of_o expression_n wonder_v at_o the_o word_n themselves_o express_v and_o the_o nearness_n to_o god_n that_o i_o have_v think_v my_o soul_n approach_v to_o and_o upon_o some_o patient_a wait_a before_o judge_v the_o return_n of_o the_o prayer_n and_o compare_v the_o part_n and_o circumstance_n of_o the_o event_n to_o the_o word_n i_o be_v enable_v to_o utter_v and_o have_v afterward_o set_v down_o i_o find_v so_o much_o correspondency_n as_o be_v between_o a_o seal_n and_o its_o impression_n i_o know_v those_o far_o excel_v myself_o in_o grace_n and_o experience_n with_o god_n lose_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o return_n from_o god_n by_o misapply_v the_o return_n not_o to_o the_o word_n utter_v in_o prayer_n but_o to_o what_o they_o so_o mighty_o desire_v i_o remember_v a_o instance_n in_o myself_o concern_v a_o servant_n part_v from_o i_o and_o petition_v heaven_n for_o his_o conduct_n to_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n for_o another_o i_o find_v comfortable_a divine_a strength_n in_o prayer_n and_o in_o some_o hour_n after_o happen_v in_o the_o company_n of_o one_o who_o former_o have_v recommend_v a_o servant_n in_o most_o thing_n acceptable_a he_o inform_v i_o of_o another_o with_o a_o character_n far_o exceed_v the_o first_o to_o which_o providence_n i_o immediate_o imply_v prayer_n express_v it_o at_o its_o return_n but_o afterward_o find_v disappointment_n as_o to_o they_o and_o difficulty_n in_o find_v any_o other_o seem_o evidence_n of_o prayer_n without_o divine_a strength_n put_v up_o and_o unaccept_v by_o god_n but_o soon_o after_o by_o some_o special_a passage_n of_o providence_n this_o servant_n beg_v leave_v to_o stay_v though_o they_o have_v confident_o despise_v my_o place_n and_o give_v warning_n to_o provide_v another_o in_o their_o room_n which_o prove_v better_a than_o change_v at_o that_o time_n though_o a_o good_a one_o have_v fall_v in_o my_o way_n which_o be_v a_o return_n exact_o suit_v the_o utterance_n in_o prayer_n confirm_v by_o the_o comparison_n of_o the_o latter_a event_n to_o the_o utterance_n set_v down_o as_o this_o be_v a_o plain_a instance_n of_o too_o hasty_a a_o judge_v the_o return_n of_o prayer_n take_v one_o providential_a passage_n for_o return_n begin_v only_o by_o it_o and_o carry_v on_o by_o other_o passage_n adjoin_v thereto_o so_o i_o shall_v lay_v before_o you_o another_o instance_n of_o misapply_v the_o return_n to_o the_o
benefit_n which_o the_o son_n of_o god_n purchase_v and_o the_o spirit_n apply_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o unfeigned_a believer_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o one_o in_o a_o violent_a hot_a country_n unacquainted_a with_o the_o blow_n of_o wind_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o one_o that_o never_o taste_v honey_n be_v it_o possible_a i_o say_v that_o the_o first_o and_o latter_a from_o the_o description_n either_o of_o the_o blow_n of_o the_o wind_n or_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o honey_n in_o the_o most_o perspicuous_a word_n can_v so_o well_o understand_v or_o so_o firm_o believe_v the_o blow_n and_o refresh_v effect_n of_o the_o wind_n or_o the_o nature_n and_o the_o sweetness_n of_o the_o honey_n as_o those_o who_o have_v enjoy_v of_o the_o first_o and_o taste_v of_o the_o latter_a this_o be_v a_o true_a resemblance_n of_o their_o condition_n who_o be_v void_a of_o the_o real_a inward_a knowledge_n of_o religion_n and_o their_o slight_n and_o disbelief_n of_o the_o spiritual_a efficacy_n of_o the_o ordinance_n can_v weaken_v the_o faith_n of_o believer_n who_o have_v experience_v the_o reality_n thereof_o upon_o their_o soul_n but_o give_v they_o great_a establishment_n and_o afford_v they_o matter_n of_o repeat_v exercise_n of_o love_n to_o he_o who_o pass_v by_o some_o and_o call_v other_o and_o advance_v they_o to_o a_o further_a reliance_n upon_o he_o in_o the_o due_a use_n of_o mean_n for_o the_o obtain_v a_o rich_a abundance_n of_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n when_o the_o error_n of_o the_o profane_a and_o mere_o profess_v christian_n endanger_v the_o stagger_a of_o any_o real_a and_o true_a christian_a it_o be_v often_o my_o fear_n lest_o that_o christian_a have_v be_v too_o careless_a of_o his_o duty_n and_o have_v not_o improve_v the_o pure_a motion_n and_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n within_o and_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o external_a mean_n of_o grace_n for_o else_o he_o will_v be_v above_o the_o impression_n of_o the_o objection_n of_o carnal_a person_n against_o his_o own_o feel_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o force_n of_o the_o most_o powerful_a argument_n of_o the_o great_a rationalist_n cover_v with_o the_o fine_a dress_n of_o word_n against_o the_o sweetness_n of_o honey_n can_v shake_v the_o faith_n of_o any_o one_o that_o have_v taste_v thereof_o perhaps_o he_o can_v discover_v the_o sophistry_n of_o the_o allegation_n but_o he_o know_v its_o false_a like_o the_o poor_a woman_n when_o oppose_v by_o the_o enemy_n of_o truth_n her_o faith_n be_v firm_a in_o her_o saviour_n and_o she_o answer_v all_o argument_n with_o these_o word_n i_o can_v dispute_v for_o christ_n but_o i_o can_v die_v for_o he_o a_o sincere_a christian_a can_v say_v i_o can_v perhaps_o demonstrate_v with_o rational_a argue_v the_o be_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o his_o effect_n of_o renew_v the_o soul_n conform_v it_o to_o christ_n image_n and_o spiritualize_v its_o frame_n in_o duty_n but_o i_o be_o well_o assure_v of_o it_o against_o all_o the_o infidel_n on_o earth_n let_v what_o i_o have_v say_v move_v thou_o o_o profane_a and_o mere_a profess_v christian_a to_o the_o use_n of_o observation_n and_o right_a performance_n of_o prayer_n as_o help_n by_o which_o you_o may_v experience_n the_o reality_n of_o inward_a christian_a religion_n yea_o let_v it_o move_v you_o o_o lazy_a christian_a who_o know_v not_o so_o much_o of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o of_o inward_a religion_n as_o be_v attainable_a by_o you_o be_v more_o serious_a and_o constant_a in_o converse_n with_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o his_o mean_n that_o you_o may_v enjoy_v what_o other_o have_v be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o wise_a and_o serious_a observer_n of_o god_n deal_n with_o his_o soul_n who_o frequent_o reflect_v upon_o they_o will_v better_o understand_v the_o harmonious_a agreement_n between_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o the_o divine_a disposal_n of_o thing_n in_o this_o low_a life_n than_o another_o sincere_a christian_a who_o do_v not_o acquaint_v himself_o so_o intimate_o with_o god_n by_o a_o constant_a application_n of_o himself_o to_o he_o in_o all_o the_o way_n wherein_o he_o draw_v near_o to_o we_o it_o be_v the_o hand_n of_o the_o diligent_a in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n that_o make_v rich_a so_o be_v it_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o diligent_a christian_a in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n that_o be_v fill_v with_o knowledge_n god_n private_a council_n be_v not_o to_o be_v dive_v into_o but_o what_o be_v suitable_a to_o his_o word_n be_v to_o be_v seek_v after_o and_o may_v be_v find_v out_o it_o be_v the_o trial_n of_o his_o word_n that_o bring_v experience_n and_o experience_n bring_v hope_n and_o it_o be_v the_o not_o try_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n that_o make_v so_o many_o doubt_n and_o shake_n in_o a_o christian_n faith_n and_o so_o much_o of_o unsettle_a hope_n of_o their_o inheritance_n above_o i_o return_v from_o the_o lazy_a christian_a again_o to_o the_o mere_a professor_n and_o profane_a and_o beg_v you_o will_v be_v entreat_v to_o join_v the_o easy_a and_o advantageous_a duty_n of_o prayer_n to_o all_o your_o endeavour_n not_o content_v yourselves_o with_o the_o cold_a form_n of_o word_n but_o mix_v holy_a affection_n which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o prayer_n and_o observe_v the_o gracious_a return_n of_o prayer_n when_o perform_v by_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n this_o be_v a_o privilege_n provide_v for_o you_o and_o to_o be_v obtain_v by_o you_o in_o the_o use_n and_o continue_a use_n of_o right_a mean_n the_o reason_n you_o miss_v the_o divine_a bounty_n be_v because_o you_o do_v present_v yourself_o in_o god_n way_n if_o a_o beggar_n expect_v the_o alm_n of_o a_o prince_n he_o will_v endeavour_v to_o be_v in_o the_o same_o street_n he_o pass_v through_o and_o as_o near_o he_o as_o ever_o be_v possible_a he_o will_v neither_o go_v to_o a_o contrary_a street_n nor_o to_o the_o opposite_a side_n of_o the_o same_o street_n neither_o will_v he_o plead_v his_o poverty_n alone_o but_o express_v all_o his_o want_n one_o after_o another_o as_o so_o many_o motive_n to_o move_v charitable_a compassion_n all_o beggar_n keep_v not_o to_o the_o same_o form_n of_o word_n but_o open_v their_o cry_n different_o according_a to_o the_o different_a sore_o lameness_n blindness_n or_o the_o like_a wherewithal_o they_o be_v afflict_v sensible_o with_o prayer_n be_v god_n way_n wherein_o a_o poor_a creature_n may_v draw_v near_o to_o he_o without_o hindrance_n of_o this_o or_o the_o other_o diversion_n between_o his_o soul_n and_o his_o king_n and_o when_o a_o christian_a be_v once_o sensible_a of_o his_o want_n and_o of_o the_o all-sufficiency_n and_o condescension_n that_o be_v in_o god_n it_o be_v not_o form_n or_o fine_a word_n but_o fervent_a serious_a pour_v out_o the_o desire_n that_o move_v the_o compassionate_a father_n in_o christ_n a_o closet-prayer_n be_v oftentimes_o the_o opportunity_n of_o receive_v great_a mercy_n from_o god_n and_o be_v many_o time_n the_o settle_n of_o a_o disquiet_v mind_n and_o the_o change_n of_o a_o carnal_a earthly_a frame_n to_o a_o spiritual_a heavenly_a one_o it_o allay_v our_o sorrow_n and_o give_v peace_n under_o sharp_a affliction_n this_o duty_n spiritual_o and_o constant_o perform_v will_v make_v you_o happy_a by_o experience_n and_o to_o resolve_v with_o the_o psalmist_n it_o be_v good_a for_o i_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n but_o to_o discourse_v more_o particular_o concern_v prayer_n spiritual_o perform_v be_v please_v to_o remember_v the_o many_o experience_n in_o the_o forepart_n of_o this_o discourse_n concern_v spirituality_n in_o prayer_n as_o evidential_a of_o its_o right_a performance_n yea_o god_n acceptance_n thereof_o and_o of_o god_n return_v what_o be_v ask_v therein_o i_o hope_v with_o a_o humble_a rejoice_n i_o may_v say_v that_o since_o ever_o i_o begin_v to_o experience_n a_o real_a heavenly_a frame_n in_o prayer_n when_o my_o soul_n therein_o have_v be_v carry_v forth_o to_o god_n with_o high_a spirituality_n concern_v any_o one_o particular_a event_n with_o full_a quiet_a of_o mind_n and_o sensible_a exercise_n of_o resignation_n at_o the_o time_n concern_v it_o a_o return_n to_o that_o address_n have_v never_o as_o yet_o fail_v i_o and_o that_o when_o my_o desire_n have_v be_v in_o exercise_n towards_o any_o one_o thing_n that_o god_n will_v not_o bestow_v i_o find_v myself_o by_o the_o strict_a observation_n under_o a_o constraint_n from_o this_o spiritual_a frame_n yea_o sometime_o from_o word_n to_o utter_v any_o petition_n or_o when_o word_n have_v be_v utter_v it_o have_v be_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n as_o when_o i_o be_v altogether_o unacquainted_a with_o inward_a religion_n these_o and_o other_o experience_n be_v build_v upon_o no_o
enjoy_v what_o be_v petition_v from_o god_n but_o in_o conversation_n i_o find_v their_o observation_n as_o too_o narrow_a and_o confine_v look_v upon_o that_o that_o may_v be_v a_o christian_n common_n food_n in_o the_o close_a continuance_n in_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n as_o a_o extraordinary_a feast_n and_o mind_v it_o most_o concern_v the_o recovery_n or_o the_o die_n of_o friend_n and_o not_o extend_v it_o to_o all_o thing_n hope_v the_o life_n or_o fear_v the_o death_n of_o one_o from_o a_o minister_n pour_v forth_o his_o soul_n or_o from_o a_o private_a christian_n fervent_n address_n to_o god_n or_o the_o constraint_n of_o both_o it_o make_v i_o remember_v how_o extraordinary_o amaze_a and_o delightful_a such_o experience_n be_v when_o at_o first_o observe_v by_o i_o in_o the_o more_o tender_a day_n of_o my_o knowledge_n in_o experimental_a christianity_n and_o make_v i_o great_o afraid_a that_o however_o notional_a knowledge_n abound_v among_o minister_n and_o people_n that_o have_v live_v so_o many_o year_n under_o gospel_n instruction_n yet_o heart-service_n to_o god_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n or_o at_o least_o strict_a continuance_n therein_o especial_o this_o delightful_a duty_n of_o private_a prayer_n be_v not_o so_o common_a and_o so_o the_o enjoyment_n that_o follow_v be_v less_o and_o seldome_a experience_v but_o to_o this_o real_a and_o comfortable_a experience_n of_o enlargement_n in_o prayer_n concern_v the_o recovery_n of_o friend_n that_o be_v more_o observe_v by_o christian_n let_v i_o give_v you_o two_o cautionary_a instruction_n from_o my_o own_o experience_n therein_o and_o of_o which_o some_o observe_a christian_n be_v not_o at_o the_o pain_n to_o remark_n concern_v this_o enlargement_n in_o prayer_n first_o of_o all_o not_o peremptory_o to_o hope_v the_o recovery_n of_o a_o friend_n from_o once_o observe_v yourselves_o or_o other_o carried_z out_o in_o a_o heavenly_a manner_n in_o prayer_n concern_v they_o and_o though_o answerable_a to_o this_o once_o observe_v spirituality_n appear_v some_o real_a amendment_n at_o the_o time_n yet_o often_o without_o the_o continuance_n of_o prayer_n thus_o spiritual_a their_o amendment_n fall_v off_o and_o suitable_a to_o their_o omission_n of_o further_a pray_v thus_o their_o friend_n die_v unless_o god_n act_n in_o a_o stream_n of_o more_o than_o ordinary_o condescension_n to_o weak_a christian_n i_o know_v not_o but_o the_o reliance_n upon_o the_o evidence_n of_o one_o prayer_n spiritual_o put_v up_o for_o a_o person_n be_v recovery_n may_v occasion_v carelessness_n in_o the_o duty_n afterward_o and_o so_o hinder_v the_o obtain_v the_o blessing_n that_o be_v think_v to_o be_v come_v to_o we_o i_o remember_v a_o holy_a christian_a who_o be_v in_o great_a thoughtfulness_n concern_v the_o recovery_n of_o his_o wife_n for_o who_o he_o have_v so_o near_a access_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n that_o he_o have_v great_a hope_n of_o her_o life_n but_o she_o die_v give_v he_o some_o more_o concern_v of_o thought_n that_o he_o shall_v hope_v on_o so_o good_a ground_n and_o yet_o be_v mistake_v whereas_o his_o near_a access_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n be_v but_o once_o experience_v his_o eye_n be_v upon_o the_o frame_n of_o his_o soul_n in_o prayer_n and_o not_o upon_o the_o word_n utter_v while_o under_o this_o divine_a influence_n his_o omission_n of_o continue_v thus_o to_o pray_v hinder_v he_o from_o clear_a discovery_n of_o god_n way_n his_o miss_v the_o observation_n of_o his_o word_n render_v he_o incapable_a of_o apply_v the_o return_n to_o what_o god_n help_v he_o to_o ask_v to_o wit_n god_n love_n to_o her_o soul_n great_o manifest_v in_o her_o passage_n hence_o at_o this_o very_a time_n i_o can_v instance_n in_o a_o child_n for_o who_o i_o find_v great_a spirituality_n in_o prayer_n but_o without_o the_o least_o appearance_n of_o amendment_n for_o a_o four_o night_n time_n which_o seem_v to_o oppose_v all_o former_a experience_n and_o may_v have_v occasion_v great_a mistake_n if_o i_o have_v not_o record_v my_o word_n as_o well_o as_o frame_v in_o prayer_n spiritual_o perform_v which_o be_v center_a in_o one_o petition_n without_o the_o least_o deviate_a from_o it_o throughout_o the_o whole_a four_o night_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v spare_v his_o life_n and_o that_o his_o life_n may_v be_v precious_a in_o his_o sight_n without_o the_o least_o intermixture_n of_o desire_n or_o word_n in_o prayer_n for_o health_n or_o recovery_n when_o a_o prayer_n spiritual_o put_v up_o be_v remark_v as_o such_o and_o correspond_v with_o a_o return_n of_o amendment_n but_o follow_v with_o after-laziness_n and_o forbearance_n of_o the_o same_o diligence_n no_o wonder_n the_o return_n stop_v and_o a_o contrary_a effect_n to_o what_o be_v desire_v or_o imminent_a appear_v if_o therefore_o your_o heavenly_a frame_n in_o petition_v health_n or_o the_o like_a be_v once_o observe_v and_o continue_v in_o i_o never_o know_v such_o petition_n return_v to_o fail_v but_o if_o this_o frame_n be_v obtain_v but_o once_o and_o afterward_o it_o go_v off_o you_o will_v undoubted_o find_v amendment_n answerable_a to_o the_o time_n of_o have_v strength_n spiritual_o to_o petition_v it_o but_o such_o a_o frame_n go_v off_o either_o through_o the_o intermission_n of_o your_o own_o endeavour_n after_o or_o god_n withhold_a it_o nothing_o else_o but_o disappointment_n to_o your_o expectation_n and_o desire_n and_o just_o to_o your_o dependence_n upon_o once_o experience_v the_o frame_n fall_v out_o it_o be_v laziness_n in_o the_o right_a performance_n of_o mean_n and_o not_o continue_v therein_o that_o keep_v off_o the_o many_o experience_n of_o inward_a religion_n or_o occasion_n the_o mistake_n that_o abound_v concern_v the_o great_a thing_n of_o inward_a religion_n however_o some_o satisfy_v themselves_o with_o the_o ill_a usage_n of_o that_o proposition_n god_n way_n be_v in_o the_o depth_n it_o be_v from_o multitude_n of_o instance_n experience_v that_o if_o the_o soul_n be_v carry_v forth_o in_o prayer_n for_o any_o friend_n ill_a that_o suitable_a thereto_o there_o be_v many_o time_n visible_a hope_n but_o if_o this_o frame_n be_v not_o continue_v in_o the_o friend_n do_v decline_v and_o die_v i_o know_v that_o once_o feel_v this_o hopeful_a frame_n have_v make_v some_o christian_n lazy_a and_o secure_a and_o not_o by_o serious_a address_n afterward_o lay_v themselves_o in_o god_n way_n to_o obtain_v the_o continuance_n of_o this_o frame_n and_o so_o their_o health_n and_o life_n have_v go_v to_o conclude_v thence_o that_o return_n be_v not_o always_o suit_v to_o spirituality_n of_o frame_n be_v mistake_v and_o erroneous_a and_o evidence_n of_o your_o lazy_a unexactness_n in_o observation_n of_o god_n with_o the_o soul_n right_a observation_n hereof_o will_v discover_v condescend_v mercy_n in_o god_n on_o purpose_n to_o keep_v the_o christian_n continual_o hold_v on_o that_o duty_n of_o prayer_n till_o the_o final_a determination_n issue_v which_o meet_v common_o with_o great_a reward_n though_o the_o continuance_n and_o spirituality_n of_o prayer_n continue_v in_o be_v his_o own_o work_n in_o the_o soul_n a_o second_o cautionary_a instruction_n be_v not_o to_o be_v peremptory_a in_o judge_v the_o spirituality_n of_o another_o man_n frame_n or_o a_o event_n answerable_a thereto_o but_o to_o be_v strict_a and_o diligent_a in_o judge_v your_o own_o frame_n and_o event_n consequential_a to_o it_o i_o will_v advise_v great_a carefulness_n in_o judge_v another_o man_n spirituality_n in_o prayer_n as_o presage_v of_o certain_a return_n answerable_a to_o the_o spirituality_n suppose_v in_o his_o frame_n 1._o first_o because_o of_o the_o difficulty_n of_o judge_v another_o man_n heart_n in_o prayer_n it_o require_v exactness_n of_o observation_n to_o raise_v a_o christian_a to_o the_o capacity_n of_o know_v his_o own_o frame_n when_o spiritual_a or_o to_o raise_v he_o to_o a_o establishment_n in_o the_o reality_n of_o correspondency_n between_o his_o prayer_n spirituality_n and_o its_o certain_a return_n but_o how_o can_v we_o be_v sure_a of_o another_o man_n heavenliness_n i_o have_v know_v many_o under_o no_o other_o knowledge_n of_o christianity_n than_o what_o be_v notional_a acquaint_v with_o no_o other_o power_n in_o perform_v duty_n than_o that_o of_o education_n and_o self-strength_n and_o yet_o pray_v with_o that_o sense_n distinctness_n and_o outward_o appear_v heavenliness_n that_o the_o hearer_n have_v be_v affect_v with_o a_o good_a hope_n of_o the_o person_n and_o a_o delightful_a thought_n of_o their_o spiritual_a seriousness_n in_o prayer_n yea_o the_o strength_n of_o natural_a part_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o prayer_n may_v heat_v the_o affection_n and_o may_v persuade_v a_o person_n and_o other_o that_o he_o pray_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n if_o therefore_o you_o may_v hear_v a_o prayer_n from_o a_o mere_a professor_n so_o near_o resemble_v a_o christian_n prayer_n influence_v by_o christ_n spirit_n
then_o to_o be_v sure_o a_o real_a christian_n serious_o perform_v a_o prayer_n with_o a_o natural_a affect_a way_n of_o expression_n may_v make_v a_o near_a resemblance_n to_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n like_v unto_o that_o sensible_a preparation_n give_v in_o by_o a_o divine_a spirit_n to_o ask_v what_o god_n be_v to_o return_v now_o to_o judge_n either_o of_o these_o prayer_n seem_o put_v up_o in_o spirituality_n as_o real_o spiritual_a and_o to_o expect_v from_o thence_o the_o health_n and_o life_n of_o your_o friend_n upon_o that_o sure_a foundation_n of_o god_n word_n tell_v we_o that_o he_o prepare_v the_o christian_n to_o ask_v when_o he_o be_v to_o incline_v his_o ear_n and_o yet_o the_o person_n do_v not_o recover_v may_v great_o tend_v to_o make_v they_o mistake_v when_o they_o judge_v it_o from_o the_o ignorance_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o the_o delusion_n of_o satan_n a_o failure_n in_o god_n truth_n rather_o than_o a_o failure_n in_o themselves_o in_o judge_v that_o prayer_n spiritual_a and_o presage_v a_o gracious_a return_n which_o real_o bear_v no_o evidence_n of_o either_o but_o if_o you_o observe_v the_o prayer_n of_o a_o minister_n or_o other_o christian_n in_o public_a put_v up_o spiritual_o and_o judge_v it_o as_o god_n token_n give_v you_o for_o good_a you_o that_o be_v concern_v and_o real_o acquaint_v with_o experimental_a christianity_n do_v not_o only_o find_v a_o sense_n and_o impression_n at_o the_o time_n of_o this_o prayer_n as_o its_o be_v god_n evidence_n of_o good_a but_o retire_v yourselves_o to_o your_o private_a prayer_n you_o will_v find_v the_o same_o frame_n upon_o your_o own_o soul_n as_o evidence_n both_o of_o god_n return_v it_o and_o of_o the_o other_o perform_n it_o spiritual_o and_o that_o your_o judgement_n therefore_o be_v right_a when_o a_o return_n be_v in_o god_n design_n though_o his_o spirit_n be_v one_o yet_o he_o influence_n many_o at_o the_o same_o time_n to_o ask_v the_o same_o thing_n of_o god_n thus_o there_o be_v more_o witness_n to_o his_o mercy_n and_o its_o greatness_n appear_v the_o more_o and_o he_o be_v the_o more_o honour_a thereby_o both_o caution_n i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o explain_v by_o a_o late_a instance_n of_o my_o own_o experience_n among_o many_o i_o can_v produce_v which_o for_o brevity_n i_o must_v omit_v that_o thereby_o you_o may_v know_v how_o many_o time_n a_o christian_a be_v help_v by_o a_o divine_a spirit_n to_o ask_v of_o god_n for_o a_o friend_n recovery_n and_o yet_o unless_o continue_v through_o the_o whole_a illness_n the_o recovery_n have_v not_o issue_v thereby_o you_o may_v also_o know_v the_o right_n judge_v of_o another_o spiritual_a frame_n in_o prayer_n the_o instance_n be_v concern_v a_o friend_n of_o my_o own_o for_o who_o the_o lord_n be_v in_o a_o solemn_a manner_n address_v to_o by_o some_o minister_n who_o set_v apart_o some_o time_n for_o this_o very_a purpose_n they_o seem_o be_v wonderful_o carry_v out_o in_o prayer_n answerable_a to_o which_o there_o be_v a_o present_a relief_n appear_v but_o go_v off_o soon_o after_o and_o continue_v not_o throughout_o the_o course_n of_o their_o illness_n i_o find_v in_o myself_o in_o prayer_n a_o perfect_a dryness_n as_o to_o the_o frame_n of_o my_o mind_n and_o word_n in_o prayer_n for_o they_o which_o make_v i_o continual_o express_v myself_o with_o fear_n of_o their_o death_n except_v one_o prayer_n in_o a_o evening_n in_o my_o closet_n which_o upon_o discourse_n with_o other_o friend_n i_o find_v to_o be_v the_o very_a exact_a time_n of_o other_o be_v unite_v to_o pray_v and_o the_o time_n of_o there_o be_v some_o hope_n of_o which_o joint_n and_o solemn_a prayer_n i_o know_v nothing_o at_o the_o time_n of_o my_o own_o observation_n which_o i_o have_v set_v down_o in_o my_o diary_n till_o afterward_o in_o discourse_n with_o friend_n and_o i_o have_v set_v it_o down_o with_o special_a remark_n but_o except_v that_o one_o prayer_n i_o find_v they_o lose_v in_o all_o my_o other_o petition_n and_o proclaim_v my_o fear_n when_o their_o physician_n have_v great_a hope_n and_o their_o symptom_n have_v some_o abatement_n with_o the_o wonder_v of_o friend_n what_o can_v be_v my_o reason_n move_v i_o to_o think_v this_o if_o any_o shall_v ask_v i_o after_o what_o have_v be_v say_v concern_v spirituality_n in_o prayer_n and_o its_o answerableness_n to_o return_v whether_o return_v from_o god_n be_v only_o to_o such_o petition_n breathe_v upon_o sensible_o by_o christ_n spirit_n and_o raise_v they_o to_o great_a heavenliness_n of_o thought_n and_o word_n than_o common_o or_o if_o extend_v to_o prayer_n perform_v with_o no_o other_o sensible_a seriousness_n than_o the_o sincere_a endeavour_n of_o a_o christian_n self_n before_o the_o answer_n i_o shall_v first_o lay_v down_o the_o difference_n between_o strengthen_v and_o comfort_v influence_n of_o christ_n spirit_n david_n have_v his_o withdrawing_n of_o comfortable_a influence_n to_o such_o a_o degree_n and_o to_o such_o a_o time_n as_o make_v he_o cry_v out_o psal_n 77.7_o be_v his_o mercy_n clean_o go_v will_v he_o be_v favourable_a no_o more_o and_o in_o ver_fw-la 8._o do_v his_o promise_n fail_v for_o evermore_o and_o yet_o at_o the_o same_o time_n though_o insensible_a then_o thereof_o he_o be_v under_o the_o strengthen_n divine_a influence_n of_o christ_n spirit_n for_o when_o david_n come_v to_o himself_o after_o he_o have_v say_v i_o have_v cleanse_v my_o heart_n in_o vain_a and_o return_v thence_o to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o comfort_v influence_n he_o say_v in_o ver_fw-la 22_o 23._o though_o i_o be_v so_o foolish_a and_o carry_v myself_o as_o a_o beast_n before_o thou_o nevertheless_o thou_o have_v hold_v i_o up_o by_o my_o right_a hand_n from_o whence_o i_o draw_v a_o caution_n to_o deject_a christian_n not_o to_o think_v that_o though_o god_n withdraw_v his_o comfort_a breathe_n former_o experience_a and_o that_o for_o holy_a end_n of_o reproof_n for_o not_o better_o entertain_v they_o former_o enjoy_v or_o of_o excitation_n to_o prize_v they_o more_o when_o they_o return_v and_o to_o keep_v close_o and_o strict_a and_o more_o continual_o to_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o obtain_v and_o to_o retain_v they_o that_o therefore_o they_o have_v lose_v the_o grace_n they_o have_v once_o the_o sensible_a evidence_n of_o by_o christ_n comfort_a influence_n and_o so_o give_v satan_n opportunity_n of_o follow_v this_o thought_n with_o his_o suggestion_n of_o apostasy_n and_o danger_n of_o damnation_n and_o the_o be_v no_o advantage_n in_o the_o further_a use_n of_o mean_n whereas_o the_o continuance_n therein_o be_v evidence_n of_o spiritual_a support_a power_n and_o of_o god_n hold_v they_o up_o from_o fall_v however_o unsensible_a they_o be_v of_o his_o comfort_a influence_n second_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n between_o spiritual_a influence_n strengthen_v the_o soul_n to_o the_o continue_a use_n of_o sincere_a prayer_n and_o between_o spiritual_a influence_n make_v the_o other_o comfortable_o sensible_a and_o carry_v the_o soul_n out_o thereby_o with_o more_o fervency_n and_o joy_n than_o at_o other_o time_n three_o that_o short_a intermission_n of_o duty_n and_o sincere_a endeavour_n therein_o contribute_v great_o to_o the_o draw_v down_o of_o continue_a comfortable_a influence_n and_o that_o the_o more_o close_o we_o walk_v with_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n the_o more_o clear_a comfortable_a delightful_a enjoyment_n occur_v i_o answer_v therefore_o first_o that_o a_o return_n be_v certain_a to_o that_o prayer_n that_o be_v direct_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o god_n for_o obtain_v a_o blessing_n for_o we_o and_o a_o evidence_n of_o this_o direction_n be_v by_o the_o heavenly_a frame_n of_o mind_n and_o more_o than_o ordinary_a freedom_n of_o utterance_n in_o the_o duty_n second_o that_o often_o god_n return_v a_o prayer_n perform_v with_o spiritual_a influence_n though_o they_o be_v without_o that_o delightful_a evidence_n at_o the_o time_n of_o prayer_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n exciting_a and_o strengthen_v the_o soul_n to_o ask_v carry_v he_o to_o nothing_o but_o what_o be_v suitable_a to_o god_n word_n and_o with_o resignation_n in_o the_o christian_n self_n whether_o this_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n be_v sensible_a at_o the_o time_n of_o prayer_n or_o not_o and_o therefore_o if_o god_n spirit_n be_v help_v the_o soul_n real_o though_o insensible_o to_o the_o christian_a or_o real_o and_o sensible_o too_o a_o return_n certain_o follow_v that_o prayer_n but_o with_o this_o difference_n that_o under_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n he_o enjoy_v the_o comfort_n of_o the_o return_n aforehand_o and_o under_o strengthen_v influence_n he_o be_v not_o so_o certain_a of_o the_o spirituality_n of_o its_o performance_n or_o its_o acceptance_n with_o god_n till_o the_o return_n make_v it_o manifest_a three_o that_o such_o a_o comfortable_a sense_n of_o
spiritual_a supply_n to_o ask_v be_v many_o time_n the_o reward_n of_o serious_a self-denying_a christian_n and_o true_o depend_v upon_o god_n in_o prayer_n and_o that_o the_o other_o be_v the_o allowance_n of_o real_a christian_n but_o less_o watchful_a and_o not_o search_v into_o and_o desirous_a of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n way_n and_o therefore_o have_v not_o that_o assurance_n of_o present_a acceptance_n and_o after-return_a as_o the_o serious_a observe_a christian_n have_v four_o that_o comfort_v influence_n be_v more_o experience_v as_o the_o portion_n of_o begin_v christian_n and_o train_v up_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n of_o tender_a heart_a christian_n and_o of_o those_o who_o walk_v continual_o with_o god_n in_o their_o thought_n by_o ejaculation_n five_o the_o evidence_n of_o support_v influence_n without_o the_o other_o be_v continuance_n in_o serious_a use_n of_o mean_n notwithstanding_o god_n withhold_v its_o comfort_n which_o must_v evidence_n a_o power_n above_o the_o carnal_a nature_n my_o advice_n therefore_o be_v to_o begin_v the_o use_n of_o serious_a prayer_n as_o well_o as_o of_o observation_n of_o outward_a providence_n that_o you_o may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o the_o godhead_n even_o on_o earth_n and_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n way_n without_o the_o fear_n of_o mistake_n because_o of_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o tender_a love_n that_o be_v in_o your_o guide_n and_o conductor_n lead_v you_o in_o the_o right_a way_n unless_o you_o stand_v still_o and_o walk_v not_o further_o on_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n or_o walk_v in_o they_o inadvertent_o pray_v the_o lord_n to_o prepare_v you_o to_o ask_v the_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v declare_v in_o his_o word_n he_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v and_o in_o his_o time_n you_o shall_v obtain_v they_o this_o humble_a constant_a and_o affectionate_a continuance_n in_o prayer_n will_v be_v a_o excellent_a mean_n to_o make_v you_o understand_v the_o method_n of_o god_n bestow_v mercy_n as_o the_o certain_a sign_n of_o his_o favour_n by_o this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o observation_n therein_o you_o will_v be_v able_a to_o expose_v all_o the_o error_n of_o the_o age_n you_o will_v see_v arminianism_n at_o the_o root_n of_o our_o new-sprung_a error_n for_o if_o they_o can_v defend_v selfsufficiency_n to_o will_n and_o choose_v spiritual_a thing_n and_o to_o comply_v with_o save_v mean_n they_o must_v look_v to_o christ_n and_o acknowledge_v that_o conversion_n from_o its_o beginning_n to_o its_o perfection_n be_v to_o be_v ascribe_v to_o divine_a grace_n other_o deny_v the_o deity_n of_o christ_n and_o think_v he_o as_o mere_a man_n like_o themselves_o inferior_a to_o the_o devil_n who_o acknowledge_v he_o the_o son_n of_o god_n his_o power_n over_o they_o by_o beg_v he_o will_v not_o torment_v they_o but_o find_v the_o doctrine_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v god_n so_o clear_o assert_v in_o the_o scripture_n they_o turn_v deist_n and_o deny_v all_o reveal_v religion_n that_o so_o we_o may_v have_v nothing_o above_o our_o own_o reason_n and_o selfsufficiency_n to_o recur_v to_o for_o the_o obtain_v the_o favour_n of_o god_n here_o and_o of_o heaven_n hereafter_o god_n believe_v as_o creator_n and_o man_n live_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o public_a moral_a virtue_n though_o private_a vice_n be_v allow_v be_v sufficient_a in_o the_o opinion_n of_o some_o for_o their_o present_a peace_n and_o esteem_n and_o their_o future_a happiness_n but_o the_o scripture_n and_o experience_n do_v strong_o refute_v those_o arminian_n error_n in_o that_o first_o chapter_n of_o john_n and_o the_o 13_o verse_n we_o be_v not_o bear_v of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o of_o god_n and_o in_o the_o second_o chapter_n of_o the_o philippian_n ver_fw-la 13._o it_o be_v god_n which_o work_v in_o you_o both_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v of_o his_o good_a pleasure_n these_o text_n be_v confirm_v by_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o sincere_a christian_n who_o feel_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o turn_v they_o from_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n to_o the_o love_n of_o holiness_n and_o carry_v they_o through_o a_o tempt_a world_n to_o the_o eternal_a kingdom_n expose_v both_o with_o the_o embracer_n of_o their_o error_n in_o their_o true_a colour_n their_o growth_n be_v no_o marvel_n to_o i_o their_o not_o be_v more_o be_v a_o great_a wonder_n profaneness_n in_o practice_n christianity_n in_o mere_a profession_n experimental_a religion_n discourage_v by_o some_o and_o neglect_v too_o much_o in_o the_o conversation_n of_o god_n own_o child_n with_o their_o division_n and_o unnecessary_a â—eats_n be_v the_o great_a nourisher_n of_o such_o wild_a grape_n i_o do_v believe_v i_o may_v without_o the_o breach_n of_o charity_n say_v that_o if_o arminian_n in_o this_o age_n be_v understanding_n in_o god_n word_n their_o knowledge_n thereof_o be_v mere_o notional_a with_o self-paraphrases_a thereupon_o but_o ignorant_a of_o its_o reality_n from_o the_o experience_n thereof_o in_o their_o own_o soul_n that_o what_o i_o say_v may_v not_o seem_v censure_n but_o what_o have_v true_a ground_n for_o suggest_v i_o will_v call_v forth_o all_o the_o experience_a christian_n on_o earth_n to_o witness_v if_o any_o one_o of_o they_o be_v ever_o able_a to_o bring_v themselves_o by_o their_o own_o strength_n and_o when_o they_o will_v to_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n of_o soul_n in_o prayer_n yea_o though_o god_n have_v give_v forth_o mean_n to_o obtain_v this_o frame_n i_o appeal_v to_o their_o experience_n whether_o their_o reliance_n upon_o these_o mean_n have_v not_o often_o obstruct_v this_o gift_n of_o christ_n spirit_n influence_v the_o soul_n depend_v thereupon_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n we_o have_v million_o of_o instance_n and_o i_o believe_v i_o can_v produce_v thousand_o from_o my_o own_o personal_a experience_n of_o be_v out_o of_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n of_o mind_n and_o that_o sudden_o and_o unexpected_o a_o ravish_a heavenly_a frame_n have_v seize_v i_o without_o any_o previous_a work_n myself_o therein_o only_o sudden_o this_o frame_n have_v seize_v my_o soul_n like_o a_o sudden_a gale_n of_o wind_n fill_v the_o sail_n of_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o drive_v the_o ship_n towards_o the_o heavenly_a harbour_n of_o god_n throne_n we_o have_v also_o multitude_n of_o experience_n of_o the_o same_o power_n of_o christ_n spirit_n sudden_o undesigned_o and_o powerful_o work_v with_o a_o verse_n of_o a_o chapter_n read_v and_o with_o a_o sentence_n of_o a_o sermon_n preach_v both_o the_o conversion_n of_o christian_n and_o also_o the_o spiritualize_a of_o their_o frame_n without_o the_o least_o design_n or_o forethought_a in_o the_o creature_n be_v self_n and_o without_o any_o other_o strength_n of_o man_n than_o lay_v himself_o in_o god_n road_n and_o highway_n of_o duty_n in_o which_o he_o common_o walk_v and_o by_o which_o he_o act_v when_o and_o how_o he_o please_v my_o argument_n be_v from_o lesser_a to_o great_a if_o a_o christian_a can_v bring_v forth_o nor_o retain_v a_o spiritual_a frame_n in_o the_o soul_n when_o or_o as_o long_o as_o he_o will_v how_o much_o less_o be_v a_o unbeliever_n capable_a of_o choose_v and_o work_v grace_n in_o his_o soul_n when_o he_o will_v where_o be_v that_o instance_n of_o a_o christian_n that_o dare_v pretend_v when_o he_o be_v in_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n to_o be_v able_a so_o to_o keep_v himself_o i_o dare_v say_v any_o that_o ever_o have_v it_o in_o reality_n and_o power_n will_v desire_v no_o other_o lot_n on_o earth_n but_o to_o be_v keep_v in_o this_o heaven_n on_o earth_n if_o thou_o therefore_o o_o arminian_n be_v uncapable_a of_o believe_v without_o a_o divine_a power_n or_o to_o exercise_v a_o heavenly_a frame_n in_o prayer_n when_o thou_o will_v or_o to_o retain_v a_o spiritual_a frame_n when_o thou_o be_v in_o its_o enjoyment_n lay_v by_o self_n and_o forge_v no_o more_o lie_v delusion_n for_o thy_o bulwark_n all_o experience_a christian_n find_v out_o thy_o falsehood_n and_o bemoan_v thy_o misery_n i_o shall_v rejoice_v if_o god_n shall_v honour_v i_o as_o a_o instrument_n to_o prevail_v with_o thou_o to_o walk_v in_o those_o mean_n in_o the_o method_n mention_v that_o with_o a_o divine_a spirit_n accompany_v they_o you_o may_v be_v lead_v to_o a_o discovery_n of_o your_o error_n through_o blindness_n and_o the_o evil_a of_o broach_v and_o fructify_a they_o on_o earth_n apprehend_v with_o yourselves_o how_o unmeet_a you_o will_v be_v to_o admire_v the_o infiniteness_n of_o mercy_n in_o provide_v these_o bless_a help_n of_o divine_a revelation_n divine_a providence_n and_o divine_a spirit_n and_o how_o unfit_a to_o praise_v his_o name_n for_o either_o when_o now_o you_o derogate_v from_o all_o to_o affix_v it_o upon_o self_n let_v not_o matter_n unexperienced_a and_o capable_a of_o be_v experience_v in_o the_o use_n of_o few_o and_o easy_a mean_n
religion_n i_o do_v real_o acknowledge_v that_o from_o read_v a_o chapter_n with_o mr._n pool_n annotation_n concern_v a_o point_n i_o have_v have_v more_o clear_a knowledge_n and_o confirmation_n than_o by_o read_v controversial_a book_n and_o i_o do_v believe_v it_o one_o of_o the_o most_o common_a failure_n of_o youth_n under_o religious_a education_n not_o read_v the_o scripture_n with_o annotation_n which_o great_o fix_v the_o thought_n upon_o one_o self_n and_o god_n divine_a rule_n if_o conform_v unto_o it_o either_o in_o heart_n or_o life_n be_v advise_v therefore_o to_o begin_v your_o knowledge_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n right_a and_o not_o to_o end_v where_o you_o shall_v have_v begin_v and_o to_o read_v but_o one_o chapter_n with_o annotation_n and_o observation_n rather_o than_o many_o slight_o remark_v that_o part_n of_o scripture_n your_o thought_n at_o the_o time_n of_o read_v most_o fix_n to_o and_o observe_v the_o method_n of_o providence_n afterward_o appear_v and_o perhaps_o you_o may_v discover_v its_o correspondency_n to_o the_o matter_n remark_v either_o as_o instruction_n or_o comfort_n second_o i_o advise_v grow_v professor_n who_o busy_a themselves_o with_o controversy_n and_o with_o book_n eloquent_o write_v or_o of_o high_a notion_n but_o still_o be_v without_o a_o affectionate_a vital_a knowledge_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o in_o danger_n of_o be_v infect_v with_o this_o or_o the_o other_o new-sprung_a error_n i_o say_v to_o such_o that_o i_o be_o afraid_a the_o advice_n give_v to_o young_a person_n have_v not_o be_v follow_v by_o they_o i_o therefore_o earnest_o exhort_v they_o to_o read_v the_o scripture_n with_o a_o design_n to_o be_v enlighten_v and_o sanctify_v by_o they_o and_o with_o the_o assistance_n of_o a_o sound_a expositor_n that_o their_o imperfect_a and_o unsettle_a conception_n of_o divine_a thing_n may_v be_v rectify_v and_o strong_o impress_v within_o they_o and_o the_o power_n of_o they_o may_v be_v visible_a in_o their_o life_n if_o you_o can_v enjoy_v full_a measure_n of_o time_n once_o a_o day_n do_v it_o by_o part_n many_o sit_v in_o their_o shop_n wait_v for_o their_o customer_n and_o read_v of_o book_n of_o no_o value_n or_o think_v upon_o what_o they_o can_v give_v no_o account_n of_o afterward_o that_o have_v great_a opportunity_n of_o use_v this_o method_n many_o may_v detract_v from_o their_o great_a time_n spend_v in_o dress_n and_o visit_n and_o thereby_o may_v have_v more_o leisure_n for_o this_o profitable_a and_o â—ounding_a work_n i_o be_o hopeful_a if_o this_o method_n be_v once_o in_o use_n there_o may_v be_v a_o excellent_a foundation_n lay_v for_o your_o knowledge_n of_o god_n the_o lawgiver_n and_o of_o your_o own_o loyalty_n and_o duty_n to_o he_o in_o heart_n and_o life_n the_o delight_n the_o soul_n will_v taste_v in_o read_v the_o word_n will_v cause_v we_o to_o disrelish_v all_o other_o book_n though_o never_o so_o please_v to_o the_o carnal_a fancy_n and_o desire_n that_o govern_v the_o unrenewed_a part_n of_o mankind_n i_o have_v often_o think_v upon_o the_o fancy_n so_o delight_v with_o variety_n and_o have_v pity_v some_o such_o who_o will_v be_v take_v with_o every_o new_a thing_n but_o do_v not_o experimental_o know_v the_o variety_n of_o thing_n in_o the_o scripture_n great_o allure_a worth_a the_o read_n and_o the_o contemplate_v and_o the_o variety_n of_o impression_n affect_v the_o mind_n in_o read_v the_o same_o scripture_n at_o various_a time_n but_o i_o have_v observe_v the_o better_a the_o duty_n be_v the_o more_o instruction_n and_o comfort_n abound_v therein_o inward_a corruption_n and_o satan_n keep_v the_o soul_n the_o more_o backward_o from_o it_o and_o let_v any_o experience_a christian_a reflect_v upon_o the_o day_n of_o their_o ignorance_n and_o the_o beginning_n of_o their_o spiritual_a knowledge_n they_o will_v find_v when_o hear_v and_o prayer_n have_v be_v practise_v by_o they_o yet_o serious_a read_n be_v great_o neglect_v especial_o with_o a_o expositor_n a_o duty_n establish_v and_o comfort_v a_o christian_n be_v the_o duty_n satan_n lose_v most_o by_o to_o read_v matter_n indifferent_a overcome_v neither_o satan_n nor_o corruption_n but_o scripture-revelation_n discover_v both_o in_o their_o natural_a colour_n and_o a_o way_n to_o escape_v the_o tyranny_n of_o either_o i_o remember_v the_o neglect_n of_o read_v the_o scripture_n while_o only_o under_o the_o power_n of_o religious_a education_n keep_v i_o in_o darkness_n and_o security_n for_o not_o bring_v the_o false_a hope_n of_o the_o goodness_n of_o my_o spiritual_a state_n to_o the_o touch_n i_o presume_v that_o i_o be_v in_o a_o safe_a condition_n but_o by_o serious_a read_v the_o scripture_n i_o have_v a_o true_a discovery_n of_o god_n and_o myself_o and_o i_o delight_v in_o the_o discovery_n and_o the_o bless_a mean_n of_o it_o that_o which_o before_o be_v so_o unpleasant_a to_o the_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v sweet_a than_o the_o honeycomb_n this_o be_v the_o usual_a reward_n that_o be_v join_v with_o our_o obedience_n to_o the_o divine_a command_n of_o search_v the_o scripture_n i_o be_o afraid_a the_o neglect_n of_o this_o duty_n keep_v not_o only_o profane_a and_o mere_a profess_v christian_n from_o a_o change_n to_o a_o state_n of_o real_a christianity_n but_o even_o real_a christian_n in_o a_o careless_a neglect_n of_o their_o conversation_n the_o serious_a read_v a_o chapter_n in_o the_o morning_n will_v so_o fix_v the_o matter_n upon_o the_o christian_n thought_n that_o now_o and_o then_o he_o will_v be_v reflect_v whether_o he_o have_v step_v aside_o from_o conformity_n to_o what_o he_o have_v read_v in_o the_o morning_n and_o will_v make_v he_o watchful_a against_o temptation_n that_o surround_v he_o lest_o he_o be_v surprise_v by_o they_o how_o sad_a be_v the_o carelessness_n even_o of_o real_a christian_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o inward_a frame_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o their_o outward_a conversation_n which_o i_o do_v believe_v may_v in_o some_o measure_n proceed_v from_o the_o neglect_n or_o at_o least_o the_o unserious_a performance_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o the_o not_o consider_v that_o god_n see_v they_o in_o their_o company_n in_o their_o family_n in_o their_o closet_n and_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o their_o neglect_n of_o serious_a yield_v themselves_o to_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n through_o the_o day_n i_o remember_v a_o passage_n i_o hear_v of_o a_o minister_n who_o have_v neglect_v his_o serious_a morning-prayer_n before_o his_o go_v forth_o upon_o that_o sacred_a work_n of_o preach_v and_o after_o read_v his_o text_n be_v stop_v that_o he_o can_v go_v on_o no_o further_a and_o another_o be_v force_v to_o supply_v in_o his_o room_n and_o upon_o review_n find_v that_o his_o neglect_n of_o pray_v for_o divine_a assistance_n and_o dependence_n upon_o it_o be_v the_o cause_n why_o he_o be_v so_o desert_v if_o christian_n be_v more_o concern_v to_o have_v their_o morning_n duty_n strict_o perform_v their_o conversation_n will_v be_v strict_a and_o spiritual_a through_o the_o day_n they_o will_v not_o disparage_v their_o profession_n and_o dishonour_n god_n by_o so_o many_o blemish_n in_o their_o action_n they_o will_v not_o so_o harden_v the_o profane_a and_o mere_a titular_a christian_n in_o their_o sinful_a state_n whereas_o prayer_n join_v with_o the_o read_n the_o word_n in_o the_o morning_n be_v a_o bless_a mean_n to_o maintain_v our_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o all_o the_o business_n and_o lawful_a refreshment_n of_o the_o day_n if_o innocent_a recreation_n by_o fix_v our_o thought_n upon_o they_o or_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o length_n of_o time_n we_o be_v in_o they_o lessen_v our_o seriousness_n we_o shall_v be_v less_o frequent_a and_o short_a in_o they_o let_v the_o conversation_n be_v never_o so_o innocent_a and_o the_o company_n never_o so_o dear_a they_o must_v not_o deprive_v we_o of_o communion_n with_o heaven_n we_o must_v so_o use_v the_o world_n as_o we_o may_v enjoy_v god_n i_o think_v visit_v of_o friend_n a_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o diversion_n but_o prolong_v to_o a_o day_n or_o a_o afternoon_n meddle_v in_o other_o affair_n censure_v some_o and_o commend_v other_o perhaps_o without_o reason_n be_v grieve_v to_o a_o spiritual-minded_n christian_n unless_o where_o he_o may_v either_o do_v or_o receive_v some_o spiritual_a good_a the_o serious_a exercise_n of_o our_o mind_n upon_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o discourse_n of_o they_o preserve_v the_o sacred_a fire_n burn_v in_o our_o breast_n spiritual_a conversation_n be_v as_o rare_a among_o christian_n as_o it_o be_v profitable_a it_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o heaven_n and_o reduce_v friendship_n to_o the_o state_n of_o paradise_n but_o we_o be_v so_o sad_o decline_v that_o unless_o he_o be_v a_o person_n of_o eminent_a holiness_n and_o gravity_n that_o interpose_v divine_a discourse_n in_o conversation_n
it_o be_v entertain_v very_o cold_o or_o with_o contempt_n and_o derision_n as_o to_o recreation_n doubtful_a among_o christian_n play_v at_o card_n and_o the_o like_a whether_o lawful_a or_o unlawful_a i_o think_v it_o be_v best_o to_o keep_v the_o judgement_n free_a from_o entangle_v scruple_n but_o to_o restrain_v our_o practice_n and_o according_o i_o desire_v to_o order_v my_o conversation_n and_o that_o for_o these_o three_o reason_n 1._o because_o since_o nothing_o in_o christ_n command_n or_o example_n or_o of_o the_o apostle_n be_v express_v herein_o i_o judge_v it_o best_o to_o regulate_v my_o practice_n by_o the_o example_n of_o the_o most_o holy_a and_o heavenly_a christian_n who_o i_o know_v have_v abstain_v from_o recreation_n of_o a_o suspect_a nature_n a_o second_o reason_n to_o i_o be_v that_o recreation_n though_o seem_v innocent_a have_v often_o be_v and_o be_v dangerous_a snare_n to_o man_n how_o many_o have_v resolve_v to_o spend_v a_o hour_n in_o a_o recreation_n and_o have_v spend_v many_o to_o the_o irreparable_a loss_n of_o precious_a time_n how_o many_o have_v begin_v with_o penny_n and_o end_v with_o pound_n to_o the_o waste_v their_o estate_n and_o impoverish_v of_o family_n the_o perfect_a forbearance_n from_o such_o allurement_n be_v our_o security_n and_o happiness_n and_o that_o other_o who_o allow_v themselves_o in_o such_o thing_n be_v not_o overcome_v be_v from_o restrain_v grace_n and_o not_o from_o corrupt_a nature_n three_o because_o to_o my_o own_o experience_n such_o thing_n wither_v a_o heavenly_a spiritual_a frame_n of_o soul_n by_o draw_v off_o the_o thought_n from_o seriousness_n to_o a_o little_a levity_n and_o from_o less_o to_o more_o till_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n be_v go_v the_o heavenly-minded_n christian_n be_v the_o only_a judge_n of_o this_o matter_n the_o profane_a and_o mere_a professor_n never_o have_v have_v a_o heavenly_a frame_n can_v hardly_o be_v say_v to_o judge_v of_o or_o be_v concern_v for_o its_o decay_n or_o removal_n neither_o the_o lazy_a though_o real_a christian_n who_o if_o serious_a in_o his_o morning_n or_o evening_n duty_n matter_n not_o the_o want_n of_o a_o heavenly_a serious_a frame_n of_o soul_n throughout_o the_o day_n in_o his_o business_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o number_n whereof_o too_o many_o abound_v in_o our_o age_n by_o reason_n whereof_o while_n under_o affliction_n or_o in_o their_o die_a hour_n when_o their_o evidence_n shall_v shine_v not_o only_o with_o light_n to_o themselves_o but_o as_o witness_n for_o god_n to_o other_o they_o appear_v more_o dark_a and_o cloud_v than_o in_o those_o who_o life_n have_v be_v a_o continue_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n how_o many_o real_a christian_n have_v bitter_o lament_v their_o time_n mis-spend_v in_o vanity_n and_o when_o near_a eternity_n have_v have_v gloomy_a thought_n and_o distract_n doubt_n of_o the_o eternal_a state_n when_o those_o who_o have_v use_v the_o world_n with_o indifferent_a affection_n and_o have_v be_v serious_a in_o work_v out_o their_o salvation_n have_v rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n in_o short_a a_o heavenly_a frame_n of_o spirit_n be_v the_o best_a antidote_n against_o the_o infection_n of_o sensual_a pleasure_n the_o main_a reason_n to_o press_v christian_n strictness_n of_o conversation_n in_o doubtful_a thing_n be_v from_o pity_n to_o the_o profane_a and_o mere_a professor_n and_o to_o prevent_v the_o dry_n up_o of_o spiritual_a seriousness_n of_o frame_n in_o real_a christian_n the_o latter_a sort_n i_o hope_v through_o the_o exercise_n of_o grace_n may_v limit_v their_o pleasure_n and_o diversion_n from_o be_v inductive_a of_o sin_n but_o the_o carnal_a be_v harden_v in_o their_o profuse_a waste_a time_n and_o their_o indulge_v their_o sensual_a desire_n even_o by_o saint_n innocent_a recreation_n of_o themselves_o in_o they_o plead_v for_o themselves_o by_o such_o a_o question_n do_v not_o such_o a_o one_o do_v so_o and_o so_o minister_n of_o all_o other_o christian_n shall_v be_v very_o diligent_a to_o prevent_v a_o take_a occasion_n and_o encouragement_n from_o their_o example_n to_o licentiousness_n in_o thing_n of_o this_o kind_n they_o have_v the_o best_a opportunity_n to_o spiritualise_v conversation_n with_o their_o people_n and_o improve_n time_n to_o the_o most_o excellent_a advantage_n that_o be_v to_o increase_v their_o knowledge_n holiness_n and_o comfort_n this_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o paul_n who_o be_v so_o great_a a_o lover_n of_o christ_n and_o soul_n this_o practice_n will_v refel_v the_o double_a accusation_n of_o minister_n in_o our_o day_n first_o that_o they_o be_v so_o much_o see_v in_o the_o affair_n of_o the_o world_n and_o be_v so_o little_a at_o home_n converse_v with_o god_n and_o themselves_o and_o seldom_o with_o their_o people_n unless_o in_o outward_a enjoyment_n and_o without_o spiritual_a profit_n to_o they_o second_o the_o other_o accusation_n be_v their_o ignorance_n of_o their_o people_n spiritual_a state_n and_o their_o more_o apply_v themselves_o to_o maintain_v such_o doctrine_n as_o be_v the_o character_n of_o their_o party_n than_o to_o preach_v truth_n suitable_a to_o the_o case_n of_o the_o congregation_n some_o preacher_n be_v call_v legal_a other_o evangelical_n and_o according_a to_o the_o different_a opinion_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o hearer_n be_v censure_v or_o commend_v but_o a_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n defame_v and_o pollute_v his_o profession_n who_o do_v not_o make_v it_o his_o sole_a end_n to_o glorify_v christ_n and_o save_v soul_n and_o for_o that_o end_n the_o law_n be_v to_o be_v preach_v discover_v the_o undo_v condition_n of_o sinner_n that_o they_o may_v come_v weary_a and_o heavy-laden_a to_o our_o compassionate_a saviour_n make_v he_o appear_v the_o more_o lovely_a to_o their_o view_n that_o they_o may_v with_o unfeigned_a willingness_n walk_v in_o those_o mean_n wherein_o his_o spirit_n may_v be_v find_v to_o apply_v christ_n with_o all_o his_o benefit_n to_o the_o needy_a soul_n i_o can_v but_o mention_v what_o i_o have_v observe_v in_o myself_o that_o upon_o any_o stir_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n tend_v to_o puff_n i_o up_o after_o enjoy_v communion_n with_o god_n or_o leave_v a_o kind_n of_o security_n in_o the_o follow_a duty_n what_o need_v i_o have_v have_v of_o reflect_v upon_o the_o law_n show_v thereby_o to_o myself_o how_o insufficient_a i_o be_v to_o give_v full_a obedience_n thereto_o or_o to_o perform_v any_o one_o part_n thereof_o aright_o unless_o by_o the_o continue_a assistance_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n to_o be_v obtain_v in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v duty_n to_o be_v in_o the_o close_a work_n of_o use_v mean_n and_o to_o ascribe_v benefit_n obtain_v therein_o to_o the_o free_a and_o powerful_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o not_o to_o any_o disposition_n or_o strength_n of_o our_o own_o therefore_o the_o meditation_n of_o law_n and_o grace_n must_v be_v join_v the_o first_o lead_v to_o the_o other_o and_o great_o discover_v the_o efficacy_n thereof_o yea_o more_o than_o that_o contemplate_v alone_o shall_v i_o see_v the_o precious_a excellency_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o see_v my_o lose_a corrupt_a deprave_a state_n shall_v i_o see_v the_o need_n of_o a_o divine_a power_n in_o work_v and_o plant_v grace_n not_o see_v my_o own_o insufficiency_n to_o act_v without_o it_o again_o before_o the_o close_a of_o the_o same_o evening_n i_o have_v be_v bring_v under_o such_o concern_n for_o one_o failure_n or_o other_o that_o the_o necessity_n and_o excellency_n of_o the_o freegrace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n have_v convince_o and_o comfortable_o by_o serious_a reflection_n want_v to_o have_v be_v apply_v to_o my_o soul_n shall_v therefore_o one_o christian_a need_n the_o bear_n home_o of_o both_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o the_o freegrace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n in_o one_o day_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v a_o congregation_n make_v up_o of_o christian_n whereof_o some_o be_v secure_a and_o other_o tender_a and_o self-condemning_a stand_v in_o need_n of_o sermon_n of_o both_o sort_n or_o of_o a_o sermon_n make_v up_o of_o both_o it_o be_v therefore_o the_o great_a duty_n of_o minister_n to_o be_v frequent_a and_o fervent_a in_o their_o prayer_n to_o god_n that_o by_o divine_a influence_n they_o may_v be_v direct_v in_o the_o choice_n of_o fit_a subject_n and_o assist_v in_o their_o preparatory_a study_n and_o in_o their_o preach_v the_o word_n in_o demonstration_n of_o the_o spirit_n 1_o cor._n 2.4_o not_o with_o entice_a word_n only_o of_o man_n wisdom_n that_o it_o may_v be_v beneficial_a and_o save_v to_o their_o hearer_n the_o neglect_n of_o this_o method_n may_v occasion_v the_o choice_n of_o a_o unsuitable_a subject_n and_o its_o delivery_n to_o be_v unsavoury_a unless_o to_o the_o mere_a notional_a christian_a a_o minister_n of_o eminent_a holiness_n tell_v i_o that_o converse_v with_o god_n in_o prayer_n be_v his_o
you_o meet_v with_o therein_o and_o the_o strength_n you_o have_v to_o resist_v they_o and_o that_o in_o answer_n to_o your_o ejaculatory_a prayer_n 3._o reflect_v upon_o the_o issue_n whether_o it_o be_v freedom_n from_o be_v overcome_v by_o its_o temptation_n and_o that_o in_o return_n to_o ejaculate_v thought_n for_o divine_a strength_n to_o preserve_v you_o before_o entrance_n in_o it_o or_o at_o the_o time_n you_o be_v engage_v with_o it_o the_o improvement_n of_o which_o reflection_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o resolution_n to_o enter_v no_o society_n but_o when_o under_o the_o constraint_n of_o lawful_a business_n or_o recreation_n and_o even_o then_o with_o a_o eye_n to_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o ejaculatory_a prayer_n either_o aforehand_o or_o while_n in_o conversation_n for_o strength_n to_o resist_v temptation_n that_o may_v either_o endanger_v occasion_n to_o sin_n or_o of_o lose_v a_o spiritual_a frame_n four_o reflect_v upon_o the_o failure_n of_o the_o day_n and_o what_o you_o have_v let_v pass_v unobserved_a what_o failures_n in_o your_o business_n and_o conversation_n have_v appear_v if_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n have_v be_v as_o much_o regard_v as_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n if_o the_o opportunity_n of_o secrecy_n have_v not_o cloud_v your_o fear_n of_o god_n if_o you_o have_v keep_v your_o tongue_n with_o a_o christian_a bridle_n from_o lie_v in_o tell_v story_n to_o divert_v companion_n or_o as_o excuse_n for_o fault_n from_o self-commendation_n with_o a_o inward_a design_n to_o disparage_v other_o from_o censure_v other_o especial_o christian_n and_o pick_v out_o somewhat_o in_o their_o life_n to_o make_v a_o discourse_n of_o to_o disparage_v their_o profession_n rather_o than_o endeavour_v their_o amendment_n by_o acquaint_v themselves_o therewith_o and_o whatever_o in_o your_o reflection_n you_o find_v have_v be_v amiss_o herein_o let_v particular_a acknowledgement_n be_v make_v that_o with_o the_o psalmist_n you_o may_v thereby_o escape_v the_o punishment_n of_o your_o particular_a sin_n and_o vow_v not_o to_o repeat_v it_o and_o tho_o repeat_v by_o you_o forbear_v not_o your_o resolution_n and_o endeavour_n against_o it_o your_o unwilling_a breach_n reflect_v upon_o will_v bring_v you_o soon_o out_o of_o yourselves_o to_o a_o redeemer_n and_o to_o cry_v for_o his_o spirit_n to_o apply_v strength_n to_o your_o soul_n to_o resist_v in_o reflection_n upon_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n through_o the_o day_n and_o upon_o the_o strength_n convey_v by_o a_o divine_a spirit_n to_o your_o soul_n evident_a not_o only_o by_o your_o spiritual_a frame_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o day_n but_o in_o the_o improvement_n of_o its_o providence_n by_o eye_v god_n in_o bring_v they_o about_o by_o regard_v his_o will_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o trust_v to_o he_o for_o event_n with_o a_o constant_a watch_n to_o ejaculatory_a prayer_n against_o the_o temptation_n of_o company_n in_o reflection_n thereupon_o arise_v a_o fair_a and_o comfortable_a discovery_n of_o your_o be_v under_o three_o bless_a conduct_n of_o god_n word_n providence_n and_o spirit_n and_o be_v lay_v before_o you_o as_o your_o last_o evening-duty_n ere_o your_o head_n lie_v down_o upon_o your_o pillow_n a_o private_a prayer_n blessing_n god_n for_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o love_n in_o his_o word_n providence_n and_o spirit_n bless_v he_o particular_o for_o each_o particular_a step_n therein_o and_o beg_v his_o further_a grace_n to_o be_v uphold_v in_o those_o mean_n wherein_o he_o be_v please_v to_o discover_v so_o much_o of_o himself_o in_o strength_n and_o comfort_n to_o the_o soul_n above_o what_o be_v attainable_a by_o other_o help_n or_o comfort_n in_o this_o life_n give_v therefore_o yourselves_o up_o to_o god_n for_o conduct_v through_o the_o night_n that_o if_o your_o eye_n shall_v never_o open_v more_o upon_o this_o earth_n your_o redeemer_n may_v find_v you_o lay_v at_o his_o footstool_n as_o the_o last_o performance_n of_o your_o life_n and_o may_v raise_v you_o up_o to_o that_o glorious_a dignity_n of_o be_v embrace_v into_o abraham_n bosom_n a_o bless_a issue_n to_o such_o comfortable_a endeavour_n and_o however_o tedious_a this_o directory_n may_v seem_v in_o its_o read_n yet_o i_o dare_v witness_n to_o this_o truth_n that_o the_o person_n in_o the_o great_a hurry_v of_o outward_a affair_n have_v time_n enough_o for_o this_o easy_a work_n it_o be_v easy_o to_o be_v intermix_v in_o the_o throng_n of_o affair_n and_o the_o more_o affair_n be_v lay_v in_o your_o way_n the_o great_a opportunity_n you_o have_v to_o observe_v god_n providence_n and_o his_o spirit_n and_o that_o build_v upon_o his_o bless_a word_n as_o a_o mean_a of_o keep_v up_o the_o sense_n of_o god_n love_n in_o your_o soul_n and_o the_o sense_n of_o your_o love_n to_o he_o that_o so_o communion_n with_o god_n may_v be_v your_o life_n on_o earth_n which_o will_v make_v you_o live_v comfortable_o and_o die_v triumphant_o i_o can_v do_v no_o more_o but_o lay_v the_o way_n before_o you_o and_o the_o lord_n himself_o give_v you_o strength_n to_o choose_v it_o and_o to_o walk_v in_o it_o finis_fw-la
the_o private_a christian_n witness_n for_o christianity_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o notional_a and_o erroneous_a apprehension_n of_o the_o arminian_n socinian_n and_o deist_n of_o the_o age_n with_o the_o easy_a and_o true_a mean_n lead_v the_o profane_a mere_a professor_n and_o lazy_a christian_a to_o the_o same_o experience_n as_o preservative_n against_o the_o infection_n of_o each_o and_o against_o the_o ill_a example_n of_o the_o practical_a blemish_n in_o lazy_a christian_n conversation_n london_n print_v for_o thomas_n cockerill_n at_o the_o three_o leg_n in_o the_o poultry_n 1697._o the_o preface_n by_o a_o friend_n of_o the_o author_n be_v since_o the_o fall_n of_o man_n by_o his_o rebellious_a sin_n he_o incur_v the_o forfeiture_n of_o his_o felicity_n that_o principal_o consist_v in_o communion_n with_o god_n the_o divine_a goodness_n be_v like_o a_o seal_a fountain_n all_o comfort_a emanation_n be_v obstruct_v divine_a justice_n be_v a_o consume_a fire_n to_o all_o guilty_a and_o pollute_a creature_n the_o son_n of_o god_n by_o his_o precious_a merit_n and_o intercession_n be_v a_o mediator_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o communion_n all_o our_o ascent_n to_o god_n in_o spiritual_a duty_n and_o his_o descent_n to_o we_o by_o communicate_v grace_n and_o comfort_n be_v through_o christ_n he_o introduce_v our_o person_n into_o the_o divine_a presence_n he_o purify_v our_o service_n from_o their_o defilement_n and_o defect_n and_o present_v they_o with_o acceptance_n to_o his_o father_n our_o communion_n with_o god_n be_v manage_v by_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n into_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o return_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n by_o the_o energy_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o all_o the_o part_n of_o divine_a worship_n the_o spirit_n compose_v the_o mind_n with_o the_o reverence_n of_o god_n invisible_a and_o adorable_a majesty_n he_o encourage_v our_o trust_n in_o his_o mercy_n and_o raise_v our_o affection_n from_o earth_n to_o heaven_n this_o be_v a_o difficult_a height_n which_o the_o carnal_a nature_n can_v arrive_v to_o prayer_n be_v a_o duty_n of_o daily_a revolution_n but_o can_v be_v perform_v in_o a_o acceptable_a manner_n without_o the_o spirit_n be_v assistance_n the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v the_o seal_n of_o god_n love_n to_o believer_n that_o can_v never_o be_v cancel_v that_o distinguish_v they_o from_o the_o unrenewed_a world_n and_o appropriate_v they_o to_o god_n he_o first_o work_v those_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n wherein_o the_o image_n of_o god_n consist_v and_o by_o illustrate_v they_o in_o the_o view_n of_o conscience_n witness_n that_o they_o be_v god_n child_n he_o be_v therefore_o style_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n the_o spirit_n ratify_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o those_o who_o have_v feel_v his_o sanctify_a and_o comsort_v operation_n there_o be_v some_o doctrine_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o impossible_a discovery_n by_o the_o light_n of_o reason_n and_o when_o reveal_v be_v incomprehensible_a now_o there_o be_v such_o evidence_n beyond_o all_o exception_n that_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o divine_a revelation_n that_o any_o doctrine_n declare_v in_o it_o though_o sublime_a and_o supernatural_a and_o contrary_a to_o our_o carnal_a prejudices_fw-la and_o passion_n just_o require_v our_o assent_n to_o it_o we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o object_n and_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o testimony_n a_o object_n be_v evident_a by_o its_o own_o light_n and_o the_o impression_n it_o make_v immediate_o on_o the_o mind_n thus_o it_o discern_v between_o truth_n and_o falsehood_n between_o what_o be_v fair_a and_o what_o be_v fraudulent_a as_o the_o eye_n see_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o day_n and_o night_n the_o evidence_n of_o the_o testimony_n be_v when_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o truth_n be_v resolve_v into_o the_o veracity_n and_o authority_n of_o god_n who_o be_v infallible_a for_o he_o can_v be_v deceive_v nor_o deceive_v now_o of_o the_o gospel_n divine_a original_a there_o be_v external_a character_n and_o sign_n and_o internal_a of_o the_o external_a character_n miracle_n be_v the_o most_o conspicuous_a of_o the_o internal_a the_o sanctify_a and_o comfort_v operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v most_o sensible_a and_o convince_a for_o certain_o humane_a nature_n though_o assist_v by_o moral_a counsel_n and_o constancy_n can_v never_o produce_v such_o divine_a effect_n the_o holiness_n and_o comfort_n that_o the_o spirit_n in_o concomitancy_n with_o the_o gospel_n work_v in_o sincere_a christian_n produce_v a_o more_o clear_a and_o strong_a assurance_n of_o its_o truth_n than_o the_o sight_n of_o miracle_n for_o holiness_n be_v a_o attribute_n as_o true_o divine_a as_o power_n and_o have_v a_o near_a affinity_n with_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n it_o be_v his_o peculiar_a glory_n the_o cleanse_n and_o change_v the_o heart_n of_o a_o sinner_n the_o calm_v of_o the_o afflict_a conscience_n be_v a_o more_o eminent_a effect_n of_o power_n than_o the_o turn_n of_o a_o wilderness_n into_o a_o paradise_n or_o the_o lay_n storm_n and_o tempest_n the_o sanctify_a and_o comfort_v virtue_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o the_o word_n be_v a_o more_o inward_a and_o last_a proof_n than_o miracle_n a_o miracle_n like_o a_o sudden_a flash_n of_o lightning_n astonish_v man_n at_o the_o present_a and_o cause_v they_o to_o consider_v what_o be_v propose_v but_o when_o the_o surprise_n be_v over_o they_o may_v neglect_v their_o duty_n but_o real_a holiness_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o life_n like_o the_o sun_n irradiate_v the_o mind_n with_o a_o constant_a light_n he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n within_o himself_o inward_a experimental_a religion_n be_v perceive_v by_o the_o sense_n of_o they_o that_o have_v it_o and_o can_v be_v so_o clear_o demonstrate_v by_o word_n who_o can_v see_v a_o taste_n from_o hence_o many_o ignorant_a and_o profane_a person_n expose_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o ignominy_n and_o contempt_n as_o the_o dotage_n of_o enthusiast_n and_o doctrinal_a professor_n who_o owe_v their_o religion_n to_o tradition_n and_o education_n and_o be_v mere_o titular_a christian_n can_v understand_v and_o believe_v what_o the_o saint_n real_o enjoy_v they_o be_v harden_v in_o their_o unbelief_n because_o many_o have_v father_v the_o bastard_n of_o their_o delude_a fancy_n upon_o the_o spirit_n but_o to_o show_v the_o unreasonableness_n of_o this_o pretence_n consider_v it_o be_v strange_a that_o the_o low_a life_n of_o sense_n have_v perceptive_a faculty_n that_o live_a creature_n feel_v that_o they_o live_v and_o the_o spiritual_a life_n more_o raise_v and_o excellent_a than_o the_o rational_a shall_v not_o perceive_v itself_o be_v it_o possible_a there_o shall_v be_v such_o a_o prodigy_n that_o the_o soul_n shall_v live_v the_o life_n of_o holiness_n and_o joy_n like_o a_o plant_n without_o the_o knowledge_n of_o it_o or_o because_o many_o be_v deceive_v with_o a_o false_a light_n and_o please_v with_o a_o delusion_n do_v it_o follow_v that_o those_o who_o have_v vital_a experience_n of_o religion_n be_v deceive_v one_o may_v dream_v that_o he_o be_v awake_a but_o a_o man_n that_o be_v awake_a know_v himself_o to_o be_v so_o the_o delusion_n of_o one_o do_v not_o weaken_v the_o assurance_n of_o another_o if_o it_o be_v inquire_v how_o shall_v we_o distinguish_v between_o the_o genuine_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o spurious_a and_o counterfeit_n a_o clear_a answer_n may_v be_v give_v 1._o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n we_o may_v discover_v and_o know_v his_o operation_n this_o be_v no_o vicious_a circle_n i_o know_v i_o have_v a_o reasonable_a soul_n by_o the_o light_n of_o reason_n for_o the_o understanding_n that_o discover_v other_o object_n in_o the_o direct_a act_n be_v the_o object_n of_o itself_o in_o the_o reflective_a act_n thus_o i_o know_v that_o i_o have_v the_o holy_a spirit_n as_o a_o principle_n of_o divine_a life_n act_v in_o i_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n 2._o it_o be_v the_o peculiar_a character_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v operation_n they_o be_v all_o in_o consent_n and_o congruity_n with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o he_o be_v the_o inditer_n of_o the_o word_n and_o can_v contradict_v himself_o they_o make_v man_n more_o holy_a and_o heavenly_a and_o as_o the_o star_n direct_v the_o wiseman_n to_o christ_n the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n always_o direct_v we_o to_o he_o as_o the_o fountain_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n and_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o those_o who_o desire_v to_o know_v when_o the_o blessing_n they_o receive_v be_v obtain_v by_o prayer_n and_o be_v not_o the_o effect_n of_o god_n general_a providence_n i_o shall_v only_o desire_v they_o to_o consider_v whether_o their_o prayer_n be_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v influence_n which_o be_v know_v by_o the_o frame_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o
his_o own_o strength_n can_v afford_v yet_o he_o shall_v not_o attain_v that_o height_n of_o free_a utterance_n so_o heavenly_a a_o style_n or_o so_o familiar_a and_o near_o a_o approach_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n as_o sometime_o sudden_o in_o the_o twinkle_n of_o a_o eye_n he_o shall_v be_v bring_v to_o and_o that_o by_o the_o blowing_n afresh_o of_o christ_n divine_a influence_n i_o have_v myself_o while_o under_o no_o other_o power_n than_o that_o of_o education_n stand_v in_o a_o maze_n to_o hear_v minister_n express_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o duty_n the_o influence_n of_o christ_n spirit_n and_o the_o like_a imagine_v these_o as_o word_n choose_v to_o set_v off_o religion_n and_o to_o make_v it_o the_o more_o amiable_a to_o soul_n till_o experience_n discover_v the_o reality_n thereof_o and_o since_o the_o discovery_n thereof_o to_o myself_o i_o have_v often_o with_o great_a concern_v of_o soul_n hear_v christ_n spirit_n mock_v at_o emanation_n and_o influence_n from_o he_o so_o ridicule_v that_o i_o can_v not_o but_o exercise_v compassion_n compare_v their_o word_n to_o my_o own_o thought_n while_o under_o the_o same_o circumstance_n of_o ignorance_n of_o experimental_a religion_n and_o the_o inward_a power_n of_o christianity_n no_o less_o instruction_n be_v capable_a of_o illuminate_v such_o dark_a mind_n than_o what_o be_v a_o emanation_n and_o influence_n of_o that_o spirit_n so_o revile_v and_o set_v at_o nought_o in_o their_o thought_n such_o a_o one_o and_o the_o creature_n set_v christ_n in_o his_o divine_a nature_n at_o nought_o i_o place_n in_o the_o same_o categorical_a line_n to_o this_o five_o experience_n i_o subjoin_v the_o follow_a instance_n of_o a_o undertake_n where_o the_o eye_n hand_n and_o wish_n of_o many_o be_v against_o i_o and_o no_o probable_a hope_n of_o success_n in_o a_o rational_a way_n but_o what_o i_o have_v from_o the_o marvellous_a frame_n of_o soul_n and_o near_a access_n to_o god_n concern_v it_o and_o like_o a_o miracle_n the_o use_n of_o mean_n obtain_v and_o the_o desire_a end_n be_v bring_v forth_o here_o i_o subjoin_v the_o experience_n of_o humble_a awe_n and_o fear_n always_o attend_v the_o clear_a heavenly_a frame_n and_o most_o satisfy_v quiet_a of_o mind_n i_o ever_o have_v concern_v any_o one_o thing_n confidence_n look_v to_o i_o too_o much_o ominous_a of_o somewhat_o of_o satan_n and_o common_o prove_v a_o mean_a of_o security_n and_o of_o less_o diligence_n in_o petition_v heaven_n and_o depend_v upon_o god_n than_o when_o the_o soul_n have_v a_o humble_a awe_n go_v along_o with_o its_o erperience_n of_o god_n approach_n to_o its_o soul_n a_o six_o experience_n of_o god_n spirit_n carry_v forth_o the_o soul_n to_o petition_v according_a to_o what_o god_n be_v to_o bestow_v be_v not_o only_o by_o change_v of_o the_o soul_n frame_v concern_v any_o one_o event_n but_o even_o by_o change_v the_o verbal_a petition_n in_o the_o change_n of_o circumstance_n in_o the_o same_o thing_n as_o for_o instance_n at_o the_o first_o discovery_n of_o my_o inward_a change_n my_o word_n in_o prayer_n for_o any_o undertake_n will_v run_v upon_o its_o success_n and_o hardly_o upon_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o which_o the_o condescension_n of_o my_o heavenly_a father_n comply_v by_o numerous_a and_o continual_a return_n of_o success_n though_o my_o endeavour_n at_o my_o first_o acquaintance_n with_o and_o observation_n of_o god_n way_n be_v not_o so_o exact_a but_o upon_o further_a knowledge_n of_o his_o way_n and_o great_a progress_n and_o reliance_n upon_o god_n for_o conduct_v to_o the_o use_n and_o right_a use_n of_o mean_n than_o my_o word_n be_v change_v run_v out_o in_o prayer_n after_o divine_a assistance_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n resign_v the_o issue_n to_o his_o will_n answerable_a to_o which_o a_o more_o diligent_a watch_n over_o myself_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o the_o less_o anxiety_n concern_v the_o event_n appear_v a_o experience_n great_o help_v the_o soul_n against_o mistake_v god_n or_o themselves_o when_o his_o way_n run_v not_o in_o the_o same_o stream_n towards_o they_o their_o advancement_n in_o strength_n be_v gradual_a and_o many_o time_n according_a to_o the_o different_a step_n of_o growth_n in_o grace_n so_o god_n walk_v in_o different_a step_n round_o they_o require_v a_o constant_a observation_n of_o his_o way_n admire_v their_o variety_n and_o bring_v forth_o suitable_a improvement_n of_o knowledge_n of_o god_n love_v to_o he_o and_o dependence_n upon_o he_o how_o infinite_a therefore_o be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o our_o bless_a god_n who_o know_v the_o various_a constitution_n and_o the_o thing_n their_o thought_n be_v most_o fix_v to_o that_o his_o breathe_a divine_a influence_n thereupon_o may_v be_v his_o ready_a mean_n to_o bring_v they_o to_o a_o serious_a discovery_n of_o god_n and_o their selve_o thereby_o how_o infinite_a be_v the_o wisdom_n love_n and_o tenderness_n of_o our_o bless_a husbandman_n in_o the_o gradual_a growth_n of_o all_o the_o young_a tender_a branch_n in_o his_o vineyard_n and_o in_o train_v up_o his_o babe_n in_o the_o first_o knowledge_n of_o he_o feed_v the_o one_o with_o milk_n and_o the_o other_o with_o meat_n know_v well_o what_o each_o stand_n in_o need_n of_o and_o can_v bear_v either_o of_o his_o smile_n or_o correct_v stripe_n order_v each_o by_o degree_n to_o the_o perfect_a of_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o make_v it_o meet_v for_o eternal_a glory_n the_o experience_n whereof_o help_v the_o soul_n to_o answer_v the_o objection_n of_o some_o serious_a christian_n but_o not_o exact_a observer_n who_o will_v reply_v upon_o impart_v a_o particular_a method_n of_o god_n with_o a_o soul_n by_o way_n of_o caution_n you_o must_v be_v careful_a not_o to_o depend_v upon_o that_o particular_a way_n god_n act_n with_o you_o in_o lest_o satan_n make_v it_o a_o temptation_n to_o unbelief_n and_o distrust_n of_o god_n and_o yourselves_o when_o he_o shall_v please_v to_o walk_v in_o another_o road_n with_o your_o soul_n but_o general_a and_o strict_a observer_n find_v god_n way_n to_o be_v thus_o that_o according_a to_o the_o infancy_n or_o manhood_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o christianity_n or_o according_a to_o the_o different_a step_n of_o advance_v the_o soul_n towards_o this_o manhood_n so_o god_n way_n to_o be_v various_a and_o according_a to_o his_o different_a end_n so_o his_o course_n lead_v thereto_o usual_o to_o be_v different_a marvellous_a argument_n indeed_o of_o infinite_a wisdom_n love_n and_o compassion_n in_o our_o great_a god_n instruction_n enough_o to_o make_v we_o stand_v off_o from_o prescribe_v method_n according_a to_o our_o inclination_n or_o expectation_n but_o instruction_n to_o keep_v ourselves_o close_o in_o the_o observation_n of_o his_o way_n in_o continual_a prayer_n for_o a_o sight_n of_o his_o design_n and_o the_o obtain_v the_o establishment_n of_o faith_n though_o the_o method_n of_o god_n be_v never_o so_o various_a with_o we_o hereto_o relate_v my_o experience_n of_o god_n with_o my_o own_o soul_n that_o according_a to_o the_o beginning_n and_o progress_n of_o my_o faith_n of_o reliance_n so_o god_n method_n have_v vary_v for_o while_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o trust_n to_o god_n i_o think_v i_o may_v say_v that_o never_o a_o prayer_n spiritual_o perform_v want_v its_o return_n immediate_o and_o that_o exact_o suitable_a to_o my_o word_n in_o prayer_n but_o upon_o further_a strength_n of_o this_o grace_n of_o reliance_n upon_o god_n i_o have_v find_v the_o return_n of_o my_o prayer_n long_o defer_v yea_o sometime_o to_o the_o last_o pinch_n of_o extremity_n but_o still_o answerable_a to_o the_o frame_n of_o soul_n and_o word_n utter_v in_o prayer_n when_o this_o frame_n and_o utterance_n be_v above_o my_o own_o strength_n through_o divine_a influence_n argument_n enough_o of_o divine_a wisdom_n adapt_a his_o various_a way_n to_o the_o various_a circumstance_n of_o his_o child_n weakness_n and_o strength_n of_o divine_a love_n establish_v their_o trust_n to_o himself_o and_o try_v their_o reliance_n upon_o he_o as_o a_o comfortable_a evidence_n of_o that_o strength_n of_o grace_n and_o thereby_o to_o lead_v they_o to_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o continual_a praise_n admiration_n and_o love_n to_o he_o how_o different_a be_v christ_n carriage_n to_o the_o leper_n from_o his_o act_n with_o the_o woman_n of_o canaan_n who_o faith_n far_o exceed_v the_o other_o the_o leper_n much_o weak_a in_o faith_n have_v the_o return_n of_o his_o prayer_n immediate_o but_o she_o much_o strong_a in_o faith_n have_v the_o return_n great_o defer_v with_o the_o intermixture_n of_o many_o try_v passage_n of_o christ_n with_o his_o own_o silence_n to_o her_o own_o petition_n and_o with_o his_o call_v she_o a_o dog_n as_o if_o she_o be_v unworthy_a to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o much_o less_o to_o receive_v of_o
account_n receive_v have_v exact_o answer_v the_o petition_n and_o utterance_n actual_o put_v forth_o and_o not_o to_o they_o only_o design_v to_o be_v express_v in_o prayer_n a_o nine_o experience_n of_o certainty_n of_o access_n to_o god_n and_o of_o his_o spirit_n be_v breathe_v power_n on_o the_o soul_n to_o ask_v what_o he_o know_v be_v to_o be_v return_v have_v be_v concern_v a_o design_n of_o three_o different_a endeavour_n at_o one_o time_n and_o prayer_n for_o guidance_n a_o mean_v make_v use_n of_o i_o have_v find_v all_o shadow_n of_o spiritual_a enlargement_n in_o prayer_n concern_v it_o strong_o withhold_v and_o so_o indeed_o have_v the_o least_o degree_n of_o successful_a endeavour_n but_o for_o the_o second_o enlargement_n only_o once_o suitable_a to_o which_o successful_a endeavour_n in_o one_o circumstance_n thereof_o and_o at_o that_o very_a time_n do_v occur_v and_o for_o the_o three_o such_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n in_o petition_v not_o only_o once_o but_o all_o along_o continue_v upon_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o successful_a endeavour_n without_o one_o cloud_n prove_v the_o issue_n plain_a expression_n i_o can_v well_o use_v and_o instance_n i_o must_v forbear_v leave_v it_o occasion_v the_o discovery_n of_o myself_o a_o ten_o experience_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v exciting_a and_o prepare_v to_o ask_v what_o he_o be_v in_o his_o good_a pleasure_n to_o return_v be_v that_o of_o his_o exciting_a and_o powerful_o strengthen_v of_o my_o soul_n for_o a_o continue_a time_n to_o pray_v for_o self-abasement_n when_o at_o the_o same_o time_n no_o outward_a temptation_n have_v be_v my_o motive_n thereto_o though_o soon_o after_o have_v appear_v some_o outward_a advancement_n and_o correspondent_a to_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n and_o love_a care_n of_o christ_n spirit_n enable_v i_o to_o ask_v the_o exercise_n of_o humility_n self-loathing_a have_v always_o accompany_v such_o outward_a smile_n yea_o from_o observation_n of_o this_o experience_n i_o have_v imagine_v a_o smile_a providence_n eminent_a from_o the_o frequency_n of_o this_o suit_n to_o the_o lord_n undesign_v but_o great_o assist_v to_o petition_v it_o i_o have_v often_o experience_v that_o when_o my_o soul_n have_v not_o be_v thus_o carry_v out_o to_o petition_v lowness_n of_o mind_n either_o before_o or_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o outward_a advancement_n that_o either_o security_n therein_o have_v fall_v out_o afterward_o embitter_v my_o thought_n or_o some_o circumstance_n in_o the_o thing_n enjoy_v that_o have_v embitter_v its_o sweetness_n or_o remove_v its_o satisfaction_n nothing_o be_v more_o satisfactory_a to_o a_o christian_a soul_n as_o the_o reception_n of_o a_o outward_a favour_n by_o special_a step_n of_o providence_n argument_n of_o divine_a favour_n accompany_v with_o such_o strength_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n as_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o improve_v it_o with_o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n and_o reliance_n upon_o the_o bestower_n and_o to_o keep_v the_o soul_n satisfaction_n therein_o in_o its_o true_a bound_n more_o upon_o the_o discovery_n of_o god_n love_n thereby_o than_o upon_o the_o thing_n itself_o enjoy_v as_o the_o experience_n already_o lay_v before_o you_o relate_v to_o outward_a enjoyment_n so_o now_o i_o shall_v give_v you_o some_o experience_n respect_v spiritual_a enjoyment_n answerable_a to_o christ_n spirit_n breathe_v influencing-strength_n to_o petition_v they_o a_o first_o experience_n thereof_o be_v when_o spiritual_o carry_v out_o to_o ask_v for_o humility_n previous_a to_o any_o spiritual_a improvement_n as_o well_o as_o before_o any_o temporal_a enjoyment_n and_o when_o security_n accompany_v with_o the_o intermission_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n have_v follow_v any_o inward_a advancement_n then_o have_v a_o cloudy_v of_o what_o be_v a_o inward_a comfort_a evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n issue_v but_o when_o the_o soul_n have_v be_v carry_v forth_o to_o ask_v it_o before_o hand_n or_o in_o the_o time_n by_o way_n of_o return_n thereto_o the_o soul_n posture_n have_v be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o self-debasement_n and_o exultation_n of_o and_o dependence_n upon_o christ_n spirit_n for_o produce_v such_o a_o marvellous_a change_n in_o the_o soul_n without_o the_o least_o exalt_v think_v of_o self_n i_o remember_v that_o one_o day_n in_o conversation_n with_o that_o holy_a saint_n mention_v before_o i_o express_v myself_o concern_v to_o know_v the_o reality_n of_o my_o grace_n to_o which_o he_o humble_o reply_v i_o have_v not_o have_v the_o least_o cloud_n as_o to_o my_o interest_n in_o heaven_n but_o shall_v rejoice_v to_o experience_n that_o measure_n of_o confirm_v passage_n of_o god_n special_a love_n as_o i_o know_v you_o have_v enjoy_v the_o effect_n whereof_o i_o find_v some_o quiet_n of_o mind_n but_o by_o the_o wise_a overrule_a hand_n of_o god_n be_v follow_v with_o such_o cloudy_a darkness_n of_o mind_n lest_o satan_n have_v excite_v self-exultation_n or_o sinful_a security_n till_o in_o the_o follow_a evening-prayer_n god_n carry_v i_o forth_o to_o bless_v his_o name_n for_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o love_n and_o to_o petition_v humility_n in_o their_o enjoyment_n the_o darkness_n disappear_v and_o his_o discourse_n be_v bear_v home_o with_o the_o alone_a effect_n of_o quiet_a of_o mind_n love_n to_o and_o reliance_n upon_o god_n and_o that_o with_o humble_a thought_n of_o self_n second_o i_o have_v find_v that_o previous_a to_o any_o victory_n over_o some_o particular_a sin_n i_o have_v be_v help_v wonderful_o to_o plead_v with_o god_n on_o this_o very_a account_n in_o a_o most_o near_o and_o sensible_a approach_n to_o he_o for_o conquest_n over_o sin_n that_o scripture_n be_v at_o the_o time_n often_o and_o comfortable_a in_o my_o thought_n nay_o more_o than_o conqueror_n through_o he_o that_o love_v we_o answerable_a to_o which_o temptation_n to_o these_o have_v occur_v sin_n but_o victory_n of_o they_o have_v be_v my_o mercy_n both_o as_o a_o return_n to_o the_o prayer_n christ_n spirit_n help_v i_o to_o ask_v and_o as_o a_o evidence_n of_o such_o a_o change_n in_o my_o soul_n as_o bespeak_v my_o interest_n in_o christ_n by_o the_o evident_a supply_n of_o his_o strength_n enable_v i_o to_o be_v victor_n of_o those_o sin_n that_o former_o i_o give_v way_n to_o three_o when_o god_n have_v be_v to_o afford_v i_o the_o evidence_n of_o great_a supply_n of_o strength_n to_o suppress_v wander_a thought_n in_o duty_n sudden_o and_o powerful_o for_o some_o time_n ardent_a desire_n and_o great_a spirituality_n in_o petition_v god_n have_v seize_v i_o answerable_a to_o which_o marvellous_a freedom_n from_o wander_a thought_n have_v occur_v and_o that_o in_o all_o the_o duty_n i_o have_v be_v exercise_v in_o a_o remarkable_a instance_n of_o this_o experience_n be_v when_o at_o a_o certain_a time_n my_o petition_n run_v out_o for_o strength_n to_o overcome_v wander_v in_o duty_n with_o full_a assistance_n of_o god_n spirit_n to_o supplicate_v and_o by_o a_o passage_n of_o providence_n establish_v my_o comfort_n though_o wander_n prevail_v and_o a_o mean_a of_o help_v forward_o my_o victory_n therein_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n be_v thus_o be_v one_o sabbath-morning_n hinder_v from_o my_o ordinary_a place_n of_o hear_v and_o have_v a_o opportunity_n of_o hear_v sermon_n in_o the_o afternoon_n i_o find_v my_o desire_n with_o a_o constrain_a force_n towards_o another_o place_n and_o minister_n which_o be_v so_o strong_a without_o any_o rational_a motive_n thereto_o that_o i_o will_v not_o be_v hinder_v though_o several_a difficulty_n occur_v in_o my_o way_n in_o the_o hear_n of_o which_o sermon_n my_o disposition_n be_v so_o spiritual_a that_o my_o thought_n have_v full_a flight_n thither_o and_o i_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o low_a esteem_n of_o the_o earth_n with_o all_o its_o allurement_n but_o which_o be_v the_o circumstance_n most_o remarkable_a be_v a_o question_n a_o minister_n be_v desire_v to_o answer_v to_o what_o shall_v be_v do_v to_o help_v wander_a thought_n in_o duty_n which_o be_v the_o very_a thing_n my_o mind_n be_v hurry_v withal_o then_o the_o thing_n christ_n spirit_n be_v help_v i_o to_o petition_v strength_n against_o and_o to_o which_o he_o be_v give_v return_n with_o sensible_a supply_n and_o with_o this_o passage_n of_o providence_n quiet_v my_o mind_n and_o as_o a_o help_n to_o forward_o my_o endeavour_n and_o victory_n over_o it_o his_o word_n be_v that_o it_o be_v a_o complaint_n common_a to_o all_o believer_n so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v a_o sense_n and_o concern_v for_o it_o the_o christian_n be_v not_o overcome_v by_o it_o go_v therefore_o on_o not_o only_o strive_v against_o it_o but_o beg_v the_o lord_n aid_n to_o vanquish_v it_o four_o previous_a to_o a_o sensible_a change_n in_o myself_o as_o to_o watchfulness_n in_o conversation_n against_o reproach_v of_o other_o sudden_o and_o undesigned_o and_o for_o some_o continue_a time_n my_o soul_n be_v carry_v
disappoint_v my_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n common_o lead_v to_o such_o end_n but_o discover_v god_n design_n yea_o infinite_a love_n in_o my_o own_o disappointment_n and_o my_o meditation_n thereupon_o be_v thus_o do_v the_o lord_n strengthen_v i_o eminent_o after_o my_o fit_a of_o sickness_n and_o continual_o in_o most_o if_o not_o all_o my_o address_n to_o heaven_n since_o that_o time_n to_o ask_v for_o advance_v of_o this_o reliance_n and_o have_v the_o lord_n return_v this_o petition_n by_o sensible_a reliance_n upon_o himself_o never_o former_o acquaint_v with_o and_o that_o in_o a_o mysterious_a conduct_n of_o outward_a providence_n shall_v i_o therefore_o bring_v forth_o this_o ill_a improvement_n of_o not_o work_v with_o god_n or_o of_o trust_v god_n only_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o smile_a favour_n when_o difficulty_n sensible_o have_v tend_v to_o the_o increase_a my_o dependence_n upon_o god_n or_o trust_v god_n only_o when_o other_o thing_n be_v of_o no_o use_n or_o when_o mean_n produce_v such_o event_n natural_o or_o probable_o turn_v their_o course_n and_o prove_v ineffectual_a no_o that_o shall_v be_v no_o less_o than_o height_n of_o ingratitude_n and_o what_o my_o love_a god_n have_v prevent_v by_o his_o spirit_n be_v accompany_v his_o method_n of_o special_a outward_a providence_n and_o therefore_o have_v great_a reason_n to_o walk_v in_o a_o road_n of_o constant_a dependence_n upon_o he_o cry_v out_o oh_o the_o height_n and_o depth_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o first_o design_v i_o such_o a_o mercy_n of_o reliance_n in_o bring_v it_o about_o and_o that_o in_o a_o method_n of_o outward_a providence_n evidence_v it_o sensible_o to_o myself_o as_o well_o as_o real_o work_v it_o in_o the_o soul_n by_o his_o spirit_n go_v along_o with_o his_o outward_a providence_n and_o in_o preserve_v this_o reliance_n notwithstanding_o the_o soul_n unwillingness_n when_o duty_n and_o interest_n go_v hand_n in_o hand_n at_o the_o same_o time_n this_o very_a experience_n be_v enough_o to_o answer_v all_o the_o ignorant_a cavil_n of_o the_o irreligious_a and_o the_o doubt_n of_o some_o christian_n who_o with_o the_o psalmist_n be_v perplex_v how_o to_o understand_v right_o the_o inequality_n of_o divine_a providence_n towards_o the_o profane_a and_o the_o gracious_a christian_a the_o first_o abound_v in_o worldly_a pleasure_n while_o the_o other_o appear_v under_o cross_v afflict_v providence_n the_o private_a christian_n inward_a observe_v experience_n of_o god_n method_n with_o himself_o afford_v knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o his_o way_n and_o strength_n to_o resist_v corrupt_a and_o satanical_a suggestion_n and_o peace_n and_o comfort_n even_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o outward_a disappointment_n when_o their_o friend_n be_v in_o concern_v on_o their_o very_a account_n or_o other_o in_o their_o circumstance_n ready_a to_o stagger_v as_o to_o god_n favour_n to_o they_o and_o that_o by_o reason_n of_o these_o thing_n which_o appear_v to_o the_o observe_v christian_a the_o great_a token_n of_o divine_a special_a love_n for_o the_o better_a understanding_n of_o this_o i_o will_v have_v you_o consider_v first_o that_o a_o christian_a renew_v from_o original_a corruption_n to_o grace_n be_v receive_v under_o a_o special_a conduct_n of_o god_n providence_n without_o as_o well_o as_o his_o spirit_n within_o and_o that_o great_o different_a from_o the_o common_a providence_n that_o attend_v the_o wicked_a of_o the_o earth_n psal_n 4.3_o but_o know_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v set_v apart_o he_o that_o be_v godly_a for_o himself_o exod._n 11.7_o the_o outward_a providence_n of_o god_n be_v so_o special_a towards_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n that_o the_o very_a dog_n be_v not_o to_o bark_n at_o they_o beside_o to_o be_v witness_n to_o three_o or_o four_o private_a christian_n impart_v god_n special_a conduct_n remark_v round_o each_o one_o of_o themselves_o one_o will_v think_v that_o the_o narrative_a of_o each_o argue_v so_o much_o of_o speciality_n as_o if_o each_o have_v be_v the_o alone_a belove_a child_n of_o god_n about_o who_o he_o have_v spend_v his_o special_a love_a care_n whereas_o those_o round_n who_o be_v the_o alone_a conduct_n of_o common_a providence_n they_o can_v reach_v no_o high_o than_o the_o general_a power_n of_o a_o great_a and_o merciful_a god_n as_o creator_n and_o preserver_n of_o all_o thing_n but_o not_o as_o their_o god_n and_o father_n or_o their_o providence_n attend_v they_o as_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o peculiar_a interest_n in_o he_o through_o christ_n and_o as_o heir_n of_o his_o kingdom_n enjoy_v the_o earnest_n thereof_o in_o the_o special_a outward_a providence_n and_o inward_a work_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n attend_v their_o life_n great_a loss_n therefore_o that_o christian_n incur_v who_o though_o under_o the_o special_a conduct_n of_o outward_a providence_n yet_o want_v the_o sense_n thereof_o unless_o in_o remarkable_a instance_n of_o it_o and_o that_o for_o want_n of_o a_o general_a observation_n of_o all_o the_o step_n of_o god_n way_n with_o himself_o from_o his_o first_o conversion_n to_o a_o full_a establishment_n in_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n a_o christian_n that_o have_v be_v observant_a of_o god_n outward_a and_o inward_a conduct_n not_o only_o witness_n a_o speciality_n of_o providence_n regard_v god_n own_a child_n but_o he_o will_v patient_o bear_v afflict_v dispensation_n that_o be_v design_v to_o make_v he_o sensible_a of_o his_o neglect_n of_o god_n deal_n with_o he_o and_o of_o his_o neglect_n or_o careless_a performance_n of_o particular_a duty_n and_o may_v change_v his_o nature_n from_o secure_a cold_a and_o lazy_a to_o spiritual_a heavenly_a and_o zealous_a and_o to_o make_v he_o more_o watchful_a and_o diligent_a in_o the_o resist_a temptation_n and_o mortify_a corruption_n and_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o every_o grace_n that_o may_v preserve_v he_o from_o the_o power_n of_o the_o tempter_n a_o christian_a under_o the_o same_o special_a conduct_n of_o god_n care_n but_o without_o the_o strict_a observation_n of_o it_o in_o all_o the_o step_n of_o god_n providence_n have_v neither_o the_o knowledge_n nor_o the_o strength_n that_o the_o observe_a christian_n have_v convey_v to_o his_o soul_n as_o the_o true_a effect_n of_o so_o desirable_a a_o duty_n but_o be_v ready_a to_o droop_v in_o his_o spirit_n when_o afflict_v not_o know_v god_n design_n in_o particular_a though_o rely_v on_o that_o bless_a word_n that_o all_o thing_n work_v together_o for_o good_a to_o they_o that_o love_n god_n yet_o miss_v god_n particular_a design_n in_o the_o present_a want_n of_o his_o soul_n the_o present_a mercy_n thereby_o to_o be_v bestow_v he_o become_v in_o danger_n of_o satan_n tempt_v he_o to_o despondency_n of_o a_o melancholy_a carriage_n in_o religion_n and_o of_o pass_v his_o pilgrimage_n state_n under_o cloud_n second_o that_o since_o god_n own_o child_n be_v under_o the_o special_a conduct_n of_o providence_n than_o they_o alone_o must_v best_o judge_v of_o god_n wise_a procedure_n and_o witness_v for_o god_n that_o what_o the_o carnal_a world_n be_v apt_a to_o charge_v against_o god_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o the_o present_a affliction_n of_o his_o child_n be_v from_o ignorance_n for_o affliction_n be_v the_o certain_a evidence_n of_o his_o wisdom_n and_o love_n as_o a_o father_n and_o a_o physician_n to_o purge_v they_o from_o sin_n to_o make_v they_o more_o holy_a and_o heavenly_a on_o earth_n and_o to_o make_v they_o more_o prepare_v to_o reign_v with_o he_o above_o though_o those_o who_o be_v only_o lead_v by_o sense_n see_v not_o good_a in_o affliction_n yet_o sincere_a believer_n who_o from_o constant_a observation_n and_o by_o the_o help_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n have_v improve_v affliction_n they_o be_v ready_a to_o comply_v with_o god_n end_n so_o soon_o as_o it_o appear_v and_o earnest_o pray_v for_o and_o rejoice_v in_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o bless_a issue_n if_o christian_n be_v serious_a in_o search_v out_o their_o sin_n before_o or_o in_o the_o time_n of_o affliction_n and_o how_o defective_a they_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n they_o will_v be_v assure_v not_o only_o from_o divine_a revelation_n but_o from_o their_o happy_a experience_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o all_o that_o the_o peaceable_a fruit_n of_o righteousness_n will_v outweigh_v all_o their_o suffering_n and_o sorrow_n a_o five_o method_n of_o god_n to_o advance_v reliance_n upon_o himself_o be_v by_o immediate_a specialty_n of_o a_o divine_a hand_n in_o passage_n of_o providence_n in_o lay_v matter_n of_o great_a success_n in_o my_o way_n and_o that_o in_o the_o follow_a instance_n first_o by_o bring_v they_o about_o without_o the_o operation_n of_o second_o cause_n common_o make_v use_n of_o have_v in_o many_o instance_n experience_v such_o thing_n lay_v in_o my_o way_n wherein_o i_o have_v hardly_o be_v
petition_v a_o divine_a blessing_n and_o the_o exact_a extension_n of_o our_o petition_n to_o all_o thing_n receive_v for_o that_o end_n of_o nourishment_n thereby_o reprove_v myself_o and_o other_o for_o the_o formal_a and_o overly_o address_v god_n herein_o and_o not_o endeavour_v the_o same_o seriousness_n and_o spirituality_n of_o frame_n as_o in_o other_o set_n and_o solemn_a petition_n and_o not_o petition_v god_n divine_a blessing_n for_o every_o thing_n we_o desire_v nourishment_n from_o or_o pleasure_n in_o three_o a_o resolution_n and_o i_o hope_v i_o may_v say_v a_o performance_n at_o least_o much_o better_a than_o ever_o before_o to_o extend_v my_o supplication_n to_o god_n for_o all_o thing_n take_v for_o the_o support_n of_o life_n and_o in_o as_o serious_a a_o manner_n as_o for_o matter_n of_o high_a concern_n god_n be_v the_o same_o when_o then_o address_v to_o as_o when_o by_o solemn_a long_a and_o numerous_a petition_n and_o though_o to_o other_o food_n come_v in_o a_o common_a way_n of_o providence_n yet_o to_o god_n own_o child_n in_o a_o line_n of_o special_a favour_n and_o therefore_o more_o obligatory_a upon_o they_o to_o show_v their_o trust_n to_o god_n for_o mercy_n seem_o in_o common_a with_o other_o as_o well_o as_o for_o more_o special_a concern_v and_o that_o in_o a_o way_n become_v the_o god_n they_o be_v more_o especial_o acquaint_v with_o and_o the_o great_a trust_n they_o pretend_v and_o do_v give_v to_o god_n than_o other_o who_o only_o enjoy_v all_o those_o favour_n as_o out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o general_a provider_n in_o a_o common_a way_n of_o distribution_n the_o effect_n of_o which_o instruction_n reproof_n and_o resolution_n have_v be_v in_o myself_o to_o avoid_v all_o opportunity_n of_o public_a petition_v a_o divine_a blessing_n upon_o these_o outward_a favour_n and_o that_o upon_o the_o follow_a account_n first_o because_o of_o the_o necessity_n of_o go_v out_o of_o the_o common_a road_n if_o my_o resolution_n be_v faithful_o perform_v and_o any_o thing_n uncommon_a either_o in_o spiritual_a or_o outward_a thing_n draw_v forth_o many_o time_n reproaching_n from_o carnal_a person_n yea_o the_o very_a apprehension_n of_o such_o person_n present_a to_o my_o certain_a experience_n be_v the_o occasion_n of_o mar_v a_o serious_a spiritual_a petition_v god_n divine_a blessing_n the_o common_a road_n of_o professor_n in_o this_o duty_n be_v form_n and_o brevity_n and_o consider_v the_o mix_a company_n this_o duty_n be_v often_o to_o be_v perform_v with_o a_o petition_n for_o god_n divine_a blessing_n with_o the_o serious_a thoughtfulness_n upon_o what_o be_v express_v many_o time_n prevent_v the_o mock_n that_o attend_v a_o spiritual_a posture_n of_o soul_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n without_o a_o form_n there_o be_v many_o conversant_a with_o we_o at_o meal_n who_o be_v it_o not_o for_o the_o power_n of_o education_n and_o fear_n of_o reproach_n will_v please_v their_o palate_n without_o any_o blessing_n petition_v thereupon_o and_o i_o be_o sure_a with_o great_a comfort_n than_o when_o burden_v with_o a_o serious_a address_n to_o god_n or_o religious_a conversation_n among_o themselves_o i_o rather_o therefore_o eschew_v the_o opportunity_n than_o spoil_v my_o serious_a address_n to_o god_n have_v little_a satisfaction_n in_o perform_v this_o duty_n unspiritual_o and_o sure_o i_o be_o that_o the_o mind_n confine_v to_o a_o form_n of_o thought_n and_o word_n aforehand_o must_v needs_o lay_v occasion_n of_o restraint_n upon_o the_o breathe_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n which_o run_v with_o strong_a force_n of_o thought_n upon_o the_o soul_n and_o great_a extension_n of_o word_n as_o any_o acquaint_v therewith_o will_v witness_v of_o i_o i_o grant_v a_o seriousness_n of_o thought_n be_v very_o agreeable_a to_o a_o form_n in_o this_o duty_n but_o far_o different_a from_o that_o spirituality_n of_o soul_n evidential_a sensible_a of_o christ_n spirit_n act_v therewith_o yea_o from_o my_o own_o experience_n i_o can_v witness_v that_o i_o have_v have_v my_o frame_n of_o mind_n that_o have_v be_v in_o a_o spiritual_a posture_n allay_v with_o a_o overly_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n brevity_n i_o accuse_v as_o mar_v of_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n i_o must_v testify_v that_o sometime_o i_o have_v be_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o prayer_n cold_a and_o lazy_a in_o the_o frame_n of_o my_o soul_n but_o in_o the_o progress_n thereof_o a_o holy_a heat_n have_v be_v diffuse_v in_o my_o affection_n and_o therefore_o just_o may_v fear_v that_o if_o my_o frame_n be_v cold_a pass_v immediate_o from_o the_o world_n to_o this_o duty_n a_o repeat_v some_o short_a sentence_n in_o a_o form_n will_v be_v over_o before_o spirituality_n have_v seize_v my_o thought_n and_o so_o prove_v a_o occasion_n of_o prevent_a spirituality_n but_o for_o a_o serious_a spiritual_a soul_n i_o think_v he_o hardly_o capable_a of_o perform_v this_o duty_n with_o common_a brevity_n he_o be_v carry_v out_o many_o time_n beyond_o design_n and_o word_n both_o expose_v he_o and_o the_o duty_n to_o the_o mock_v of_o such_o if_o then_o present_a and_o therefore_o reservedness_n in_o the_o public_a performance_n of_o this_o duty_n i_o great_o affect_v take_v therefore_o my_o reason_n thus_o for_o eschew_v the_o public_a performance_n of_o this_o duty_n that_o i_o may_v neither_o keep_v off_o divine_a influence_n by_o form_n nor_o short'n_o the_o sweetness_n thereof_o by_o brevity_n nor_o expose_v myself_o and_o the_o duty_n to_o the_o ridicul_v of_o those_o who_o either_o will_v willing_o feast_v upon_o god_n good_a thing_n without_o ever_o acknowledge_v he_o the_o giver_n or_o petition_v his_o blessing_n to_o follow_v they_o rather_o than_o cool_v the_o victual_n a_o degree-more_a than_o suit_v their_o palate_n and_o gratify_v the_o sensual_a appetite_n a_o second_o reason_n of_o eschew_v public_a performance_n of_o this_o duty_n have_v be_v because_o of_o this_o spiritual_a frame_n and_o heavenliness_n of_o mind_n i_o endeavour_v after_o throughout_o the_o day_n out_o of_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o in_o duty_n which_o hinder_v a_o rush_n from_o worldly_a discourse_n to_o a_o petition_v of_o god_n with_o three_o or_o four_o sentence_n by_o roat_n and_o set_v forth_o a_o duty_n proceed_v from_o a_o mind_n spiritual_a and_o actual_o serious_a beside_o when_o at_o any_o time_n i_o be_o heaven_o carry_v out_o petition_v god_n in_o any_o duty_n i_o find_v that_o often_o petition_n and_o expression_n will_v run_v upon_o matter_n that_o i_o have_v be_v former_o plead_v for_o throughout_o the_o day_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v not_o willing_o desire_v any_o company_n perhaps_o to_o know_v of_o and_o to_o restrain_v myself_o in_o this_o frame_n be_v what_o will_v great_o burden_v my_o soul_n and_o rather_o incline_v i_o to_o lose_v such_o comfort_n though_o never_o so_o grateful_a to_o sense_n my_o method_n therefore_o and_o great_a endeavour_n be_v that_o whether_o other_o perform_v this_o duty_n or_o myself_o i_o may_v if_o possible_a meet_v with_o nothing_o that_o may_v occasion_v its_o unspiritual_a performance_n and_o when_o other_o be_v so_o short_a my_o soul_n be_v not_o at_o ease_n till_o i_o have_v serious_o ejaculate_v my_o thought_n to_o heaven_n easy_o do_v without_o the_o least_o knowledge_n to_o the_o shortsighted_a professor_n round_n and_o privacy_n to_o myself_o i_o make_v choice_n of_o unless_o family-relation_n engage_v i_o that_o so_o neither_o form_n nor_o brevity_n may_v hinder_v i_o of_o so_o sweet_a a_o enjoyment_n as_o spiritual_a frame_n in_o the_o duty_n and_o that_o what_o bear_v most_o in_o my_o thought_n towards_o god_n through_o the_o day_n may_v not_o be_v prevent_v from_o be_v utter_v through_o the_o fear_n of_o other_o know_v it_o or_o ridicul_v the_o duty_n because_o of_o it_o three_o another_o scripture_n be_v bear_v home_o upon_o my_o soul_n by_o way_n of_o instruction_n and_o comfort_n when_o one_o day_n i_o happen_v to_o be_v out_o of_o all_o business_n respect_v my_o call_v and_o discover_v one_o of_o the_o same_o way_n with_o myself_o in_o great_a hurry_n therein_o some_o repine_a melancholy_a thought_n begin_v to_o spring_v up_o of_o which_o i_o be_v concerned_o sensible_a at_o the_o time_n and_o anxious_a how_o to_o suppress_v they_o but_o after_o walk_v some_o four_o or_o five_o pace_n i_o see_v the_o bible_n before_o i_o which_o i_o take_v up_o without_o any_o design_n of_o serious_a read_n therein_o but_o the_o first_o verse_n that_o my_o eye_n fix_v upon_o be_v that_o of_o the_o 9th_o verse_n of_o the_o 5_o chapter_n of_o james_n grudge_v not_o one_o against_o the_o other_o which_o immediate_o bear_v home_n upon_o i_o with_o astonish_a amazement_n that_o so_o exact_o it_o shall_v suit_v my_o circumstance_n which_o perhaps_o may_v have_v from_o lust_n within_o and_o satan_n without_o occasion_v the_o neglect_n of_o regard_v
and_o comfort_n to_o my_o soul_n thereby_o one_o instance_n without_o express_v many_o i_o can_v give_v be_v when_o through_o the_o week_n great_o thoughtful_a concern_v the_o knowledge_n of_o effectual_a call_n and_o my_o evidence_n thereof_o in_o my_o soul_n and_o happen_v to_o be_v one_o day_n in_o a_o friend_n closet_n where_o several_a book_n lay_v i_o look_v into_o one_o and_o be_v please_v with_o the_o subject_n i_o bring_v it_o home_o without_o know_v that_o any_o thing_n concern_v effectual_a call_v be_v in_o it_o in_o the_o perusal_n whereof_o i_o find_v a_o appendix_n concern_v effectual_a call_v which_o great_o please_v i_o at_o the_o time_n my_o thought_n be_v then_o in_o great_a exercise_n concern_v it_o but_o still_o without_o any_o sensible_a satisfaction_n in_o myself_o from_o use_v it_o the_o follow_a sabbath_n i_o find_v a_o strong_a inclination_n to_o hear_v another_o minister_n than_o who_o i_o usual_o hear_v without_o argument_n to_o myself_o against_o he_o or_o any_o sensible_a and_o more_o grateful_a motion_n to_o hear_v another_o the_o inclination_n grow_v so_o strong_o and_o sudden_o that_o no_o objection_n can_v stop_v my_o design_n though_o i_o meet_v with_o several_a and_o at_o my_o hear_v the_o minister_n find_v his_o sermon_n upon_o effectual_a call_v and_o accompany_v with_o such_o satisfactory_a instruction_n and_o sweet_a sense_n of_o my_o be_v effectual_o call_v that_o i_o be_v amaze_v and_o ravish_v at_o the_o time_n which_o plain_o prove_v the_o word_n preach_v to_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n bring_v forth_o evidence_n which_o be_v mean_n to_o salvation_n second_o by_o bear_v home_o duty_n with_o such_o power_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o the_o hear_n of_o a_o sermon_n that_o immediate_o their_o performance_n have_v be_v resolve_v and_o the_o practice_n dutiful_o and_o delightful_o continue_v one_o remarkable_a instance_n be_v by_o a_o sermon_n of_o a_o faithful_a minister_n of_o christ_n mr._n shower_n in_o a_o december_n preparatory_a to_o the_o sacrament_n wherein_o he_o press_v that_o as_o people_n at_o that_o time_n usual_o be_v a_o consider_v their_o account-book_n to_o know_v their_o circumstance_n so_o we_o may_v at_o the_o same_o time_n every_o year_n take_v a_o account_n of_o our_o soul_n to_o know_v the_o state_n of_o grace_n whether_o grow_v decay_a or_o at_o a_o stand_n which_o great_o impress_v i_o at_o the_o time_n and_o be_v a_o mean_a in_o god_n hand_n to_o persuade_v i_o to_o the_o custom_n thereof_o which_o ever_o since_o i_o have_v use_v and_o not_o only_o then_o but_o every_o night_n and_o at_o the_o end_n of_o every_o month_n and_o bless_v be_v god_n it_o have_v be_v of_o great_a service_n to_o myself_o in_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o advancement_n of_o my_o inward_a change_n and_o in_o the_o preserve_n of_o i_o from_o misapprehension_n of_o god_n way_n with_o i_o help_v i_o to_o know_v what_o grace_n be_v most_o in_o exercise_n and_o what_o corruption_n most_o tempt_a and_o a_o continual_a discovery_n of_o god_n method_n suit_v his_o providence_n to_o each_o i_o impart_v it_o as_o a_o example_n to_o other_o and_o to_o help_v forward_o their_o comfortable_a pilgrimage_n on_o earth_n another_o instance_n of_o that_o experience_n be_v in_o the_o powerful_a influence_n that_o accompany_v my_o soul_n in_o hear_v the_o sermon_n preach_v upon_o family-duty_n by_o which_o though_o i_o always_o perform_v evening_n family-prayer_n yet_o have_v never_o perform_v it_o in_o the_o morning_n till_o by_o that_o mean_v god_n be_v please_v to_o enforce_v it_o as_o duty_n and_o help_v i_o to_o practise_v it_o with_o comfort_n and_o if_o these_o minister_n have_v no_o other_o seal_n accompany_v their_o religious_a undertake_n this_o one_o may_v comfort_v they_o and_o let_v they_o know_v it_o be_v not_o in_o vain_a three_o by_o influence_a sermon_n with_o a_o power_n to_o suppress_v evil_n predominant_a at_o the_o time_n of_o hear_v which_o give_v i_o ground_n to_o fear_v they_o will_v interrupt_v i_o in_o that_o duty_n i_o have_v often_o find_v myself_o under_o disquiet_n and_o in_o great_a fear_n lest_o the_o disquiet_n shall_v occasion_v a_o unprofitable_a hear_v it_o be_v natural_a for_o a_o thing_n disquiet_v to_o draw_v forth_o the_o mind_n upon_o it_o even_o when_o it_o ought_v to_o fix_v upon_o a_o thing_n of_o high_a concern_n and_o yet_o i_o have_v be_v so_o far_o from_o lose_v the_o advantage_n of_o this_o bless_a mean_n of_o grace_n that_o it_o have_v be_v through_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n effectual_a to_o remove_v the_o disquiet_n itself_o and_o to_o bring_v i_o into_o a_o sweet_a spiritual_a frame_n of_o soul_n how_o ought_v this_o great_o to_o caution_n we_o not_o to_o add_v one_o folly_n to_o another_o and_o by_o pretention_n of_o unfitness_n to_o hear_v to_o neglect_v hear_v it_o be_v a_o mean_n by_o divine_a assistance_n to_o make_v you_o sit_v how_o often_o have_v the_o profane_a of_o the_o earth_n vain_o say_v they_o be_v as_o know_v as_o their_o minister_n and_o understand_v as_o much_o as_o they_o can_v acquaint_v they_o and_o why_o shall_v they_o go_v to_o hear_v what_o they_o know_v beforehand_o never_o consider_v hear_v as_o a_o mean_v not_o only_o instruct_v their_o judgement_n but_o change_v their_o heart_n establish_v they_o experimental_o in_o what_o they_o know_v and_o raise_v they_o by_o a_o divine_a hand_n to_o a_o serious_a spiritual_a heavenly_a frame_n of_o soul_n the_o element_n a_o saint_n desire_v continual_o to_o breathe_v in_o four_o by_o order_v the_o sermon_n of_o person_n dislike_v from_o some_o circumstance_n in_o their_o way_n as_o mean_n both_o of_o instruction_n and_o comsort_n and_o the_o circumstance_n despise_v more_o spiritualize_a my_o frame_n than_o ordinary_a to_o prevent_v partial_a respect_n to_o minister_n and_o to_o see_v the_o assist_a mean_n that_o god_n afford_v we_o and_o to_o encourage_v we_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n that_o god_n afford_v we_o the_o most_o unlikely_a mean_n be_v true_o successful_a as_o it_o be_v influence_v with_o a_o divine_a spirit_n one_o instance_n whereof_o be_v before_o i_o happen_v to_o know_v or_o hear_v a_o worthy_a minister_n of_o this_o city_n i_o ordinary_o exclaim_v against_o his_o sing_v of_o hymn_n not_o as_o unlawful_a for_o hymn_n psalm_n and_o spiritual_a song_n be_v the_o part_n of_o praise_n under_o the_o new_a testament_n but_o lest_o it_o shall_v give_v encouragement_n to_o other_o not_o so_o sound_a in_o learning_n and_o divinity_n not_o only_o to_o neglect_v the_o use_n of_o psalm_n but_o to_o compose_v what_o may_v be_v erroneous_a weak_a and_o dissonant_n from_o they_o one_o day_n i_o find_v a_o mighty_a inclination_n in_o myself_o to_o hear_v he_o without_o any_o rational_a motion_n to_o it_o at_o the_o time_n and_o though_o i_o be_v in_o a_o extraordinary_a lazy_a cold_a frame_n yet_o no_o soon_o do_v i_o enter_v the_o place_n but_o i_o meet_v with_o the_o hymn_n i_o have_v so_o much_o exclaim_v against_o plain_o make_v use_n of_o as_o a_o mean_a to_o bring_v i_o into_o a_o most_o ravish_a spiritual_a frame_n of_o soul_n which_o continue_v with_o i_o in_o all_o the_o after_o public_a and_o private_a duty_n of_o the_o day_n i_o have_v also_o experience_v that_o when_o upon_o the_o consideration_n of_o a_o low_a esteem_n of_o a_o minister_n for_o his_o weak_a part_n and_o unsuitable_a way_n of_o preach_v to_o what_o i_o want_v i_o have_v withdraw_v to_o some_o place_n else_o that_o that_o very_a day_n i_o have_v have_v a_o unusual_a testimony_n of_o the_o worth_n of_o this_o minister_n sermon_n who_o i_o leave_v and_o instead_o of_o meeting_n with_o that_o sweetness_n i_o have_v expect_v or_o sometime_o have_v have_v from_o the_o other_o when_o i_o have_v go_v with_o some_o inward_a constraint_n i_o have_v find_v myself_o in_o as_o bad_a a_o frame_n as_o ever_o without_o any_o satisfaction_n and_o establishment_n but_o rather_o a_o uneasiness_n of_o mind_n concern_v it_o o_o how_o instruct_v be_v this_o of_o the_o inefficacy_n of_o the_o best_a mean_n without_o a_o divine_a power_n and_o of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o weak_a mean_n with_o a_o divine_a power_n it_o be_v neither_o learned_a matter_n nor_o fine_a oratory_n that_o will_v save_o instruct_v the_o mind_n or_o comfort_v the_o soul_n though_o it_o may_v affect_v the_o fancy_n and_o inform_v the_o judgement_n for_o a_o time_n how_o instruct_v be_v it_o of_o a_o dependence_n upon_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n he_o lay_v providential_o in_o our_o way_n as_o our_o duty_n unless_o when_o god_n go_v out_o of_o his_o ordinary_a road_n of_o which_o we_o be_v not_o to_o make_v a_o rule_n if_o they_o be_v weak_a mean_n or_o strong_a mean_n it_o be_v according_a to_o the_o influence_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n that_o they_o
will_v with_o heat_n contend_v for_o their_o opinion_n in_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o clear_a nor_o of_o great_a moment_n as_o if_o they_o be_v fundamental_a doctrine_n there_o be_v some_o christian_n that_o have_v not_o only_o the_o life_n of_o grace_n plant_v in_o they_o but_o the_o liveliness_n of_o grace_n they_o be_v work_v and_o watchful_a to_o prevent_v any_o impression_n and_o taint_n of_o evil_a from_o the_o contagion_n of_o the_o world_n wherewith_o they_o be_v encompass_v and_o they_o be_v watchful_a unto_o good_a they_o be_v ready_a to_o exercise_v every_o grace_n in_o its_o season_n and_o by_o a_o continual_a derivation_n of_o strength_n from_o christ_n they_o be_v preserve_v from_o sinful_a error_n and_o irregular_a passion_n our_o bless_a lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v pay_v the_o price_n of_o our_o redemption_n and_o that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o interest_n therein_o and_o enjoy_v the_o privilege_n thereof_o as_o evidence_n and_o earnest_n of_o heaven_n god_n have_v appoint_v mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v obtain_v this_o bless_a end_n mean_n that_o be_v suitable_a in_o their_o use_n to_o rational_a and_o lapse_v creature_n in_o their_o human_a capacity_n such_o as_o exclude_v boast_v in_o ourselves_o and_o of_o presumption_n licentiousness_n and_o security_n in_o a_o carnal_a conversation_n these_o mean_n be_v prescribe_v in_o the_o gospel_n as_o prayer_n meditation_n hear_v and_o the_o participation_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n these_o be_v the_o sphere_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v activity_n in_o these_o we_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n and_o he_o draw_v near_o we_o by_o these_o mean_n christ_n with_o all_o his_o save_a benefit_n be_v apply_v to_o soul_n by_o these_o they_o be_v revive_v from_o the_o death_n of_o sin_n and_o restore_v to_o the_o favour_n and_o image_n of_o god_n they_o live_v in_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o be_v confirm_v thereby_o against_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o evil_a spirit_n who_o rule_v the_o world_n those_o who_o neglect_v the_o holy_a and_o constant_a use_n of_o these_o mean_n whether_o from_o the_o delusion_n of_o their_o mind_n or_o the_o corruption_n of_o their_o heart_n will_v find_v that_o darkness_n be_v their_o guide_n and_o the_o issue_n of_o their_o way_n will_v be_v fatal_a and_o destructive_a let_v i_o therefore_o apply_v the_o forego_n narrative_a thus_o there_o be_v some_o professor_n that_o have_v knowledge_n in_o a_o eminent_a degree_n and_o be_v of_o a_o fair_a unblemished_a conversation_n by_o the_o advantage_n and_o impression_n of_o education_n but_o be_v stranger_n to_o the_o inward_a power_n of_o godliness_n as_o ignorant_a heathen_n let_v such_o due_o consider_v the_o case_n and_o neither_o despair_n for_o the_o divine_a spirit_n can_v quicken_v they_o nor_o delay_v the_o serious_a and_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n which_o god_n have_v make_v effectual_a for_o the_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n of_o other_o let_v they_o observe_v both_o the_o outward_a providence_n of_o god_n and_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o apply_v themselves_o to_o god_n in_o the_o ordinance_n both_o private_a and_o public_a that_o they_o may_v receive_v renew_v grace_n of_o god_n and_o be_v preserve_v from_o destructive_a evil_n if_o a_o notional_a knowledge_n of_o god_n word_n and_o a_o unblemished_a outward_a conversation_n be_v no_o real_a christianity_n no_o certain_a testimony_n of_o real_a and_o save_v grace_n how_o utter_o void_a of_o it_o be_v the_o profane_a to_o they_o i_o will_v give_v this_o counsel_n not_o to_o be_v averse_a from_o serious_a and_o real_a religion_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o some_o professor_n who_o have_v only_o a_o name_n to_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a or_o from_o a_o conceit_n that_o the_o christian_a religion_n be_v so_o extreme_o rigorous_a as_o to_o deprive_v we_o of_o all_o natural_a comfort_n or_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o different_a opinion_n in_o the_o christian_a world_n but_o to_o remove_v all_o prejudices_fw-la and_o to_o endeavour_v to_o understand_v the_o gospel_n to_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n to_o obey_v the_o precept_n of_o it_o and_o then_o they_o will_v find_v christianity_n to_o be_v more_o than_o a_o outward_a profession_n a_o serious_a divine_a principle_n regulate_v the_o heart_n and_o life_n and_o that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v obtain_v of_o god_n by_o every_o sincere_a seeker_n of_o it_o and_o that_o it_o allow_v the_o temperate_a use_n of_o natural_a comfort_n and_o only_o forbid_v the_o licentious_a abuse_n of_o they_o whereby_o man_n become_v most_o unlike_a god_n and_o be_v like_o the_o beast_n that_o perish_v and_o the_o lawful_a sober_a enjoyment_n of_o nature_n be_v consistent_a with_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o saint_n which_o be_v infinite_o more_o satisfy_a and_o last_v than_o all_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n for_o which_o so_o many_o lose_a heaven_n and_o be_v condemn_v to_o eternal_a torment_n if_o christianity_n and_o its_o power_n may_v be_v real_o feel_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o yet_o damp_v by_o the_o too_o long_a intermission_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n and_o cloud_v by_o the_o admixture_n of_o too_o much_o of_o self_n produce_v a_o kind_n of_o christian_n lazy_a in_o the_o obtain_n the_o continue_a power_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o their_o soul_n and_o so_o be_v in_o danger_n both_o of_o long_a intermission_n of_o fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o break_v of_o fellowship_n one_o to_o another_o more_o dishonour_v god_n than_o either_o the_o mere_a professor_n or_o profane_v who_o never_o experience_v the_o reality_n and_o comfort_n of_o true_a christianity_n to_o such_o i_o will_v apply_v this_o exhortation_n not_o only_o to_o be_v in_o the_o right_a use_n of_o mean_n but_o in_o the_o more_o continue_v right_o use_v than_o ever_o former_o for_o undoubted_o if_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o way_n by_o which_o he_o walk_v and_o by_o which_o he_o communicate_v to_o believer_n to_o the_o truth_n whereof_o all_o experience_a christian_n will_v put_v their_o seal_n than_o the_o often_o christian_n walk_v in_o those_o way_n the_o often_o and_o the_o more_o they_o receive_v both_o of_o knowledge_n and_o comfort_n from_o god_n which_o undoubted_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o some_o real_a christian_n go_v beyond_o other_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o way_n and_o be_v in_o the_o more_o close_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n with_o more_o inward_a fellowship_n with_o god_n both_o in_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n and_o common_a conversation_n that_o therefore_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o doubt_v whereof_o be_v one_o great_a occasion_n of_o error_n and_o vice_n may_v be_v experience_v as_o truth_n and_o the_o mean_n lead_v thereto_o give_v forth_o i_o shall_v previous_o lay_v down_o two_o proposition_n the_o first_o instructive_a the_o other_o cautionary_a the_o first_o be_v that_o all_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o their_o pilgrimage-state_n be_v under_o three_o sort_n of_o conduct_n the_o first_o be_v that_o of_o god_n word_n the_o foundation_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o the_o infallible_a rule_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o judge_v of_o all_o doctrine_n of_o all_o our_o experience_n and_o all_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n the_o second_o be_v that_o of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n who_o according_a to_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n instruct_v we_o in_o all_o save_v truth_n by_o the_o word_n and_o bring_v it_o to_o our_o remembrance_n to_o guide_v we_o safe_o to_o heaven_n the_o three_o be_v that_o of_o divine_a providence_n sometime_o enlighten_v what_o seem_v dark_a in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o in_o the_o act_n of_o christ_n spirit_n but_o found_v upon_o his_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o agreeable_a to_o both_o though_o the_o dispensation_n of_o providence_n be_v no_o certificate_n of_o god_n special_a love_n to_o man_n yet_o we_o be_v assure_v by_o the_o scripture_n that_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a tender_a providence_n of_o god_n that_o regard_v his_o child_n which_o be_v declarative_a of_o his_o special_a love_n and_o by_o a_o serious_a observation_n of_o it_o their_o duty_n and_o comfort_n will_v be_v encourage_v and_o improve_v second_o cautionary_a not_o to_o limit_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o any_o particular_a way_n or_o time_n of_o work_v in_o the_o soul_n either_o in_o plant_v of_o grace_n or_o its_o further_a growth_n though_o by_o observation_n of_o outward_a providence_n god_n be_v please_v to_o bring_v i_o to_o the_o first_o serious_a sense_n of_o myself_o and_o to_o a_o dependence_n upon_o god_n for_o life_n and_o for_o salvation_n and_o by_o marvellous_a step_n of_o his_o outward_a dispensation_n join_v with_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n he_o have_v begin_v and_o increase_v a_o gracious_a change_n in_o my_o soul_n yet_o he_o have_v use_v various_a method_n in_o the_o conversion_n and_o sanctification_n of_o
mean_n by_o which_o much_o of_o god_n spirit_n may_v be_v communicate_v to_o their_o soul_n and_o thereby_o god_n word_n experience_v as_o certain_a and_o their_o reliance_n upon_o it_o as_o the_o foundation_n of_o their_o faith_n evident_o to_o themselves_o and_o other_o bring_v forth_o such_o i_o say_v seem_v more_o necessary_a than_o the_o sermon_n or_o book_n enlarge_n upon_o a_o divine_a truth_n with_o such_o fine_a oratorical_a and_o philosophical_a style_n as_o may_v itch_v the_o ear_n of_o the_o christian_a with_o establishment_n of_o its_o own_o notion_n in_o religious_a theory_n and_o of_o the_o illiterate_a with_o a_o opinion_n of_o the_o preacher_n or_o writer_n great_a and_o learned_a gift_n endanger_n both_o through_z obtain_v applause_n not_o only_o of_o pride_n but_o of_o keep_v reason_n out_o of_o its_o due_a place_n and_o if_o this_o have_v not_o bring_v forth_o many_o unneccessary_a heat_n at_o this_o day_n i_o be_o great_o mistake_v reason_n be_v that_o noble_a principle_n distinguish_v we_o from_o all_o other_o inferior_a creature_n and_o though_o corrupt_a yet_o capable_a of_o be_v restore_v to_o great_a perfection_n and_o stability_n than_o when_o man_n be_v create_v at_o first_o perfect_a but_o capable_a of_o fall_v god_n have_v make_v provision_n of_o suitable_a help_n to_o advance_v and_o to_o bring_v forth_o this_o perfection_n but_o the_o pride_n of_o corrupt_a man_n be_v such_o that_o as_o at_o first_o it_o prompt_v he_o to_o affect_v a_o equality_n with_o god_n so_o now_o it_o prompt_v he_o to_o the_o vain_a imagination_n of_o himself_o as_o sufficient_a without_o divine_a help_n to_o regain_v his_o perfect_a state_n and_o obtain_v by_o his_o own_o knowledge_n the_o understanding_n of_o all_o necessary_a divine_a truth_n and_o by_o his_o own_o strength_n the_o performance_n of_o all_o necessary_a duty_n and_o if_o this_o have_v not_o bring_v forth_o the_o undervalue_v of_o reveal_v religion_n by_o the_o deist_n the_o undervalue_v of_o christ_n by_o the_o socinian_o and_o the_o undervalue_v of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n expose_v he_o as_o no_o help_n neither_o his_o spiritual_a influence_n as_o strength_n to_o work_v out_o our_o salvation_n by_o i_o be_o as_o much_o mistake_v experimental_a religion_n cut_v off_o all_o these_o difficulty_n for_o the_o more_o a_o christian_n observe_v of_o himself_o in_o his_o experience_a failure_n the_o less_o room_n and_o low_a station_n self-strength_n obtain_v in_o his_o affection_n the_o more_o he_o find_v of_o christ_n spirit_n unexpected_o and_o powerful_o bear_v home_n scripture-truths_n to_o his_o personal_a experience_n former_o unacquainted_a with_o though_o often_o notional_o hear_v of_o the_o low_a esteem_n reason_n must_v have_v as_o by_o its_o self_n incapable_a right_o to_o understand_v gospel_n mystery_n and_o though_o in_o our_o day_n we_o have_v some_o so_o open_o confident_a as_o in_o print_n to_o tell_v we_o that_o nothing_o be_v mysterious_a in_o the_o gospel_n against_o god_n own_o word_n the_o seal_n of_o martyrdom_n and_o against_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o the_o saint_n of_o the_o earth_n endeavour_v thereby_o to_o act_v factorship_n for_o satan_n by_o who_o please_a suggestion_n of_o man_n reason_n and_o strength_n in_o himself_o to_o be_v rely_v on_o without_o any_o other_o help_n to_o believe_v or_o to_o do_v what_o be_v necessary_a for_o the_o obtain_n heaven_n hereafter_o and_o a_o secure_a undisturbed_a quiet_n of_o mind_n here_o i_o must_v believe_v that_o that_o creature_n have_v never_o yet_o be_v under_o any_o other_o discovery_n of_o gospel-truth_n than_o what_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o notional_a knowledge_n and_o that_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o state_n he_o can_v hardly_o expect_v to_o be_v a_o member_n of_o that_o triumphant_a society_n who_o eternity_n will_v be_v take_v up_o in_o the_o admiration_n and_o the_o praise_n of_o that_o mysterious_a method_n of_o redeem_v man_n from_o a_o state_n of_o corruption_n and_o misery_n to_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n and_o glory_n above_o the_o prospect_n whereof_o we_o only_o now_o enjoy_v dark_o through_o a_o glass_n and_o yet_o the_o view_v thereof_o that_o upon_o this_o earth_n we_o sometime_o experimental_o have_v be_v know_v by_o all_o experience_a christian_n both_o to_o be_v mysterious_a far_o above_o nature_n foresight_n or_o enjoyment_n through_o itself_o and_o render_v the_o creature_n unexpressible_a astonishment_n in_o its_o approach_n upon_o the_o soul_n though_o the_o protestant_a nation_n abound_v with_o such_o error_n yet_o they_o neither_o derogate_v from_o god_n and_o his_o word_n or_o afford_v darkness_n to_o christian_a professor_n who_o have_v experience_v the_o reality_n of_o both_o upon_o their_o soul_n but_o expose_v themselves_o to_o they_o as_o christian_n certain_o ignorant_a of_o god_n and_o his_o word_n whatever_o fine_a notional_a flourish_v in_o print_n or_o discourse_n they_o express_v and_o also_o draw_v forth_o christian_n pity_v towards_o they_o and_o help_v believer_n to_o advance_v their_o praise_a god_n who_o have_v make_v they_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o differ_v from_o other_o experimental_a religion_n make_v we_o become_v as_o little_a child_n and_o esteem_v ourselves_o so_o low_o as_o to_o lay_v all_o our_o deprave_a faculty_n at_o god_n footstool_n and_o use_v they_o not_o alone_o by_o way_n of_o reliance_n but_o with_o the_o help_n of_o god_n divine_a spirit_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n we_o have_v for_o many_o year_n enjoy_v so_o much_o of_o the_o gospel_n but_o alas_o in_o notion_n only_o that_o i_o have_v stand_v in_o a_o maze_n to_o hear_v the_o discourse_n of_o some_o illiterate_a people_n concern_v the_o notion_n of_o christianity_n and_o to_o see_v their_o zeal_n debate_v their_o preacher_n notion_n with_o that_o hear_v as_o if_o they_o have_v be_v throw_v fire-ball_n one_o to_o another_o till_o fire_n have_v be_v kindle_v among_o assembly_n of_o professor_n when_o at_o the_o same_o time_n experimental_a religion_n have_v never_o be_v call_v in_o as_o a_o help_n to_o unloose_v their_o difficulty_n at_o the_o time_n of_o hear_v some_o such_o difference_n my_o own_o experience_n in_o christianity_n have_v make_v i_o discover_v that_o either_o their_o debate_n can_v be_v resolve_v in_o various_a word_n or_o that_o if_o mean_v make_v use_n of_o by_o god_n as_o help_n to_o the_o people_n or_o preacher_n soul_n for_o their_o experience_n of_o divine_a mystery_n have_v be_v more_o press_v upon_o the_o people_n with_o that_o enlargement_n which_o their_o own_o experience_n may_v have_v afford_v no_o such_o debate_n will_v have_v rise_v and_o people_n and_o preacher_n shall_v be_v better_o know_v in_o our_o day_n and_o whether_o god_n honour_n the_o establishment_n of_o his_o truth_n self-applause_n or_o outward_a interest_n be_v at_o the_o foundation_n of_o such_o hot_a zeal_n when_o once_o in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n a_o christian_n find_v the_o evidence_n of_o sanctification_n he_o shall_v then_o make_v the_o current_n of_o his_o zeal_n run_v towards_o further_a evidence_n of_o its_o reality_n and_o further_a growth_n in_o it_o advise_v other_o not_o to_o debate_v whether_o justification_n or_o sanctification_n precede_v whether_o certain_a condition_n must_v precede_v qualify_a to_o be_v unite_v to_o christ_n or_o union_n to_o christ_n before_o any_o thing_n of_o holiness_n in_o our_o nature_n appear_v but_o to_o walk_v in_o the_o use_n of_o god_n mean_n and_o in_o they_o to_o obtain_v the_o application_n of_o christ_n and_o all_o his_o privilege_n by_o the_o help_n of_o his_o bless_a spirit_n and_o so_o both_o condition_n themselves_o and_o a_o renew_v state_n by_o your_o union_n to_o christ_n may_v sensible_o appear_v at_o the_o same_o time_n by_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o mean_n thus_o bless_v and_o the_o step_n of_o advancement_n in_o this_o newness_n of_o nature_n be_v bring_v forth_o not_o only_a establishment_n to_o themselves_o but_o a_o capacity_n of_o instruct_v and_o comfirm_v other_o upon_o sure_a ground_n than_o that_o of_o stretch_v of_o wit_n and_o notional_a theory_n our_o debate_n concern_v freegrace_n and_o work_n carry_v along_o with_o they_o too_o much_o of_o self_n and_o too_o little_a of_o divine_a experience_n and_o i_o be_o sure_a too_o much_o of_o fiery_a constitution_n the_o experience_a christian_n find_v enough_o in_o himself_o to_o keep_v both_o in_o their_o just_a bound_n according_a to_o scripture_n rule_n and_o imagine_v the_o debate_n unneccessary_a and_o bring_v forth_o of_o no_o other_o fruit_n than_o that_o of_o faction_n dishonour_v god_n and_o expose_v christianity_n as_o uncertain_a to_o those_o that_o be_v ignorant_a thereof_o the_o experience_a christian_a find_v that_o the_o more_o of_o the_o freegrace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n appear_v in_o his_o experience_n the_o more_o love_n to_o god_n be_v kindle_v in_o his_o soul_n the_o more_o of_o true_a sanctify_a love_n the_o great_a desire_n he_o
their_o duty_n perform_v never_o serious_o question_v in_o themselves_o whither_o any_o other_o thing_n than_o there_o petition_n of_o word_n in_o such_o serious_a a_o manner_n as_o the_o strength_n of_o education_n and_o other_o discourse_n concern_v god_n greatness_n have_v bring_v they_o to_o be_v either_o necessary_a or_o actual_o in_o their_o prayer_n or_o ever_o examine_v after_o prayer_n be_v over_o whether_o it_o have_v return_v or_o not_o how_o this_o way_n of_o live_v shall_v train_v a_o soul_n to_o the_o experience_n and_o knowledge_n of_o access_n to_o and_o enjoyment_n with_o god_n in_o prayer_n i_o know_v not_o speaking_z as_o to_z god_n common_a way_n of_o bestow_v such_o comfortable_a privilege_n purchase_v by_o christ_n for_o we_o to_o instruct_v you_o therefore_o from_o the_o experience_n of_o god_n with_o myself_o o_o profane_a and_o mere_a profess_v christian_n i_o will_v with_o much_o sincerity_n and_o love_n 〈◊〉_d â—ur_n self_n beg_v your_o step_n in_o the_o follow_a 〈◊〉_d when_o you_o be_v design_v any_o matter_n or_o endeavour_v the_o interest_n of_o this_o or_o the_o other_o mean_v to_o bring_v forth_o your_o purpose_a end_n resolve_v to_o address_v the_o lord_n by_o prayer_n for_o his_o guidance_n of_o you_o to_o the_o use_n of_o right_a mean_n and_o his_o blessing_n the_o mean_n to_o bring_v about_o your_o design_n unless_o inconsistent_a with_o his_o honour_n and_o your_o interest_n and_o if_o you_o be_v hinder_v from_o solemn_a address_n make_v use_n of_o your_o thought_n and_o dart_v they_o up_o to_o he_o with_o the_o same_o petition_n mind_v not_o only_o the_o word_n in_o your_o solemn_a prayer_n and_o your_o thought_n in_o ejaculation_n but_o consider_v the_o frame_n of_o your_o mind_n in_o both_o whether_o serious_a or_o not_o if_o as_o serious_a as_o when_o speak_v to_o this_o or_o the_o other_o help_n to_o carry_v on_o your_o design_n at_o your_o first_o entrance_n i_o suppose_v not_o your_o acquaintance_n with_o spirituality_n of_o frame_n and_o if_o your_o frame_n be_v thus_o serious_a mind_n the_o issue_n of_o your_o affair_n if_o it_o be_v according_a to_o your_o desire_n and_o prayer_n impute_v not_o your_o success_n altogether_o to_o your_o outward_a help_n of_o this_o mean_a and_o the_o other_o but_o let_v heaven_n blessing_n accompany_v your_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n have_v room_n in_o your_o thought_n if_o not_o as_o chief_a yet_o as_o necessary_a and_o therefore_o you_o will_v improve_v this_o passage_n thus_o observe_v with_o a_o resolution_n to_o address_v god_n more_o serious_o than_o ever_o in_o your_o next_o undertake_n and_o according_o perform_v your_o serious_a prayer_n to_o he_o for_o his_o divine_a assistance_n which_o meet_v with_o a_o sensible_a return_n you_o will_v improve_v with_o a_o more_o fixedness_n in_o your_o resolution_n to_o petition_v he_o in_o all_o your_o after-concerns_a and_o with_o give_v of_o he_o now_o the_o place_n of_o principal_a agent_n with_o your_o mean_n which_o will_v lay_v a_o foundation_n not_o only_o for_o a_o resolution_n and_o performance_n of_o prayer_n and_o that_o serious_o to_o god_n in_o all_o occurrence_n but_o make_v a_o fair_a step_n towards_o the_o sound_n a_o faith_n of_o reliance_n upon_o god_n yea_o a_o endeavour_n of_o please_a god_n to_o interest_n yourselves_o in_o his_o favour_n and_o a_o perusal_n of_o the_o scripture_n to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o the_o way_n of_o do_v it_o and_o go_v on_o in_o this_o way_n of_o prayer_n and_o observation_n with_o such_o suitable_a improvement_n you_o know_v not_o neither_o be_v it_o in_o the_o power_n of_o the_o great_a exercise_n of_o a_o rational_a soul_n to_o foresee_v or_o imagine_v aforehand_o what_o great_a and_o mysterious_a thing_n may_v be_v lay_v before_o you_o to_o observe_v to_o wit_n of_o a_o christian_n advancement_n from_o the_o first_o step_n of_o seriousness_n to_o a_o reliance_n upon_o god_n as_o the_o alone_a power_n to_o be_v trust_v to_o with_o such_o mean_n he_o allow_v of_o and_o have_v witness_v his_o pleasure_n in_o by_o work_v with_o they_o for_o the_o bring_n about_o such_o event_n as_o be_v seek_v from_o natural_a strength_n by_o other_o but_o by_o they_o in_o petition_v the_o agency_n of_o his_o power_n i_o do_v mean_v by_o repeat_v of_o word_n by_o way_n of_o form_n and_o rule_v give_v you_o in_o your_o education_n but_o through_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o great_a advantage_n of_o his_o favour_n and_o a_o sincere_a desire_n to_o obtain_v it_o a_o carry_v out_o of_o your_o desire_n with_o thought_n and_o word_n suitable_a to_o the_o present_a height_n of_o your_o long_n which_o lay_v you_o in_o the_o way_n of_o meeting_n with_o the_o breathe_n of_o christ_n spirit_n to_o help_v your_o infirmity_n and_o to_o raise_v your_o frame_n to_o such_o a_o posture_n of_o heavenliness_n as_o you_o never_o know_v before_o unless_o by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o ear_n and_o will_v soon_o unfold_v what_o a_o dark_a state_n you_o have_v be_v in_o that_o all_o the_o seriousness_n you_o have_v in_o prayer_n be_v no_o other_o than_o the_o strength_n of_o education_n and_o that_o there_o be_v something_o else_o in_o the_o christian_a religion_n you_o have_v never_o yet_o be_v senble_a of_o more_o suitable_a to_o the_o feel_n of_o the_o soul_n than_o to_o the_o utterance_n of_o the_o great_a orator_n on_o earth_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v express_v in_o the_o scripture_n these_o mystery_n in_o a_o stile_n suit_v to_o our_o understanding_n but_o when_o the_o same_o spirit_n bear_v they_o home_o to_o the_o sensible_a feel_n of_o a_o christian_a what_o addition_n be_v give_v to_o the_o christian_n understanding_n of_o they_o and_o true_a faith_n in_o they_o i_o go_v not_o therefore_o about_o to_o express_v these_o experience_a mystery_n in_o a_o better_a stile_n for_o your_o understanding_n but_o to_o put_v you_o in_o a_o way_n of_o obtain_v their_o experience_n upon_o your_o soul_n by_o the_o work_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n in_o the_o use_n of_o common_a mean_n you_o lose_v your_o labour_n in_o endeavour_v to_o understand_v they_o in_o their_o save_a efficacy_n by_o your_o natural_a reason_n without_o the_o help_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n and_o his_o internal_a revelation_n what_o can_v better_a unfold_v or_o express_v the_o breathe_n of_o christ_n spirit_n upon_o a_o soul_n in_o its_o holy_a frame_n and_o performance_n of_o any_o religious_a duty_n than_o its_o resemblance_n to_o the_o blow_n of_o the_o wind_n upon_o our_o body_n which_o though_o sensible_o feel_v yet_o be_v mysterious_a as_o to_o the_o part_n of_o the_o heaven_n from_o whence_o it_o blow_v or_o the_o way_n of_o its_o blow_n upon_o we_o in_o like_a manner_n though_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n breathe_v upon_o a_o soul_n in_o pray_v to_o god_n come_v often_o sudden_o like_o a_o gale_n of_o wind_n refresh_v the_o soul_n dead_a frame_n with_o a_o ravish_a heavenly_a life_n and_o power_n thought_n desire_n and_o all_o the_o affection_n be_v then_o carry_v heavenward_o like_o a_o ship_n towards_o its_o harbour_n with_o sweet_a delight_n therein_o and_o a_o actual_a undervalue_v of_o the_o rich_a treasure_n and_o pleasure_n on_o earth_n in_o the_o balance_n with_o this_o comfortable_a sweetness_n for_o the_o time_n enjoy_v the_o continuance_n whereof_o will_v afford_v the_o soul_n a_o heaven_n on_o earth_n yet_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o divine_a nature_n and_o in_o his_o method_n of_o thus_o change_v the_o frame_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v incomprehensible_a by_o the_o reach_n of_o human_a reason_n and_o to_o the_o experience_a soul_n there_o be_v but_o a_o discovery_n of_o he_o in_o his_o bless_a effect_n and_o operation_n and_o a_o sight_n of_o he_o through_o a_o glass_n dark_o till_o that_o bless_a change_n pass_v upon_o they_o and_o they_o obtain_v a_o perfect_a meetness_n to_o see_v and_o to_o understand_v he_o as_o he_o be_v no_o wonder_n therefore_o the_o profane_a or_o mere_a profess_v christian_a attempt_v to_o comprehend_v god_n word_n as_o to_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o plant_v grace_n or_o water_v it_o with_o constant_a influence_n to_o keep_v it_o in_o exercise_n find_v themselves_o at_o a_o loss_n how_o to_o understand_v it_o and_o therefore_o never_o feel_a its_o effect_n upon_o their_o soul_n either_o look_n upon_o it_o as_o chimaera_n and_o the_o be_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o his_o bless_a operation_n of_o convert_v and_o spiritualize_v a_o soul_n to_o be_v only_a notion_n of_o a_o melancholy_a brain_n how_o many_o be_v there_o at_o this_o day_n who_o mock_v at_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o divinity_n of_o our_o bless_a redeemer_n and_o ridicule_fw-la expression_n of_o fellowship_n with_o he_o as_o cant_a discourse_n for_o they_o never_o receive_v the_o precious_a
his_o return_n of_o such_o prayer_n be_v great_o defer_v and_o as_o a_o condescend_v help_n to_o prevent_v despond_v anxiety_n quiet_a of_o mind_n concern_v the_o return_n to_o be_v defer_v always_o accompany_v my_o supplication_n and_o the_o lord_n leave_v i_o not_o to_o the_o dominion_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n or_o of_o satan_n suggestion_n or_o if_o either_o have_v assault_v i_o the_o divine_a strength_n raise_v i_o to_o a_o actual_a resignation_n to_o his_o will_n at_o the_o time_n fortify_v i_o against_o they_o again_o a_o observe_v christian_n see_v so_o much_o of_o the_o depth_n of_o wisdom_n in_o god_n way_n concern_v they_o that_o it_o must_v be_v strange_a if_o he_o presume_v to_o confine_v god_n to_o one_o method_n when_o the_o variousness_n yea_o the_o contrariness_n of_o method_n to_o bring_v about_o the_o same_o end_n be_v one_o great_a evidence_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o wisdom_n a_o observe_a believer_n know_v that_o god_n try_v the_o strength_n of_o christian_n various_a way_n in_o order_n to_o their_o establishment_n not_o because_o he_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o exact_a measure_n of_o their_o growth_n in_o christianity_n but_o from_o love_n to_o they_o that_o by_o their_o faithful_a continuance_n in_o prayer_n defer_v as_o to_o its_o return_n the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n may_v be_v excite_v and_o exercise_v both_o to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o their_o inward_a comfort_n for_o what_o can_v be_v more_o revive_v than_o to_o find_v corruption_n weaken_a and_o grace_v strengthen_v which_o be_v the_o sweet_a issue_n of_o many_o grievous_a affliction_n that_o be_v not_o remove_v upon_o our_o renew_a petition_n till_o we_o be_v purify_v by_o they_o hereafter_o may_v some_o say_v since_o spirituality_n in_o prayer_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n gift_n and_o it_o unexpected_o come_v we_o may_v lay_v by_o prayer_n with_o our_o own_o endeavour_n and_o wait_v as_o the_o quaker_n say_v till_o the_o spirit_n move_v and_o then_o to_o pray_v to_o this_o i_o say_v spirituality_n in_o prayer_n be_v the_o alone_a gift_n of_o christ_n spirit_n and_o it_o come_v when_o he_o please_v but_o by_o sincere_a prayer_n we_o obtain_v this_o bless_a gift_n it_o be_v not_o the_o usual_a way_n of_o god_n to_o bestow_v it_o in_o more_o excellent_a degree_n without_o our_o sincere_a ask_n it_o in_o the_o humble_a sense_n of_o our_o need_n of_o it_o the_o quaker_n acknowledge_v as_o from_o converse_n with_o some_o of_o they_o i_o have_v hear_v they_o have_v a_o innate_a spirit_n by_o which_o they_o be_v act_v and_o according_a to_o its_o inward_a strive_v so_o they_o move_v in_o duty_n i_o know_v in_o we_o all_o there_o be_v that_o innate_a principle_n of_o corruption_n which_o reign_v make_v our_o faculty_n of_o soul_n and_o member_n of_o body_n move_v as_o it_o list_v to_o evil_a but_o a_o principle_n of_o grace_n that_o inspire_v we_o with_o new_a life_n in_o our_o duty_n come_v from_o heaven_n and_o be_v obtain_v in_o the_o use_n of_o his_o ordinance_n this_o do_v not_o in_o the_o least_o obscure_a the_o glory_n of_o god_n freegrace_n for_o his_o spirit_n excite_v we_o to_o duty_n and_o supply_v we_o with_o strength_n to_o perform_v they_o but_o it_o direct_v we_o to_o seek_v god_n in_o the_o way_n appoint_v that_o we_o may_v find_v he_o that_o therefore_o christian_n may_v right_o judge_v of_o this_o heavenly_a frame_n and_o intercession_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n prepare_v they_o to_o ask_v from_o god_n what_o he_o be_v to_o return_v error_n herein_o proceed_v either_o from_o mistake_v the_o work_n of_o christ_n spirit_n help_v they_o to_o ask_v or_o from_o apply_v the_o return_n to_o what_o they_o ought_v not_o i_o shall_v give_v the_o follow_a mark_n accompany_v such_o a_o prayer_n and_o that_o observe_v from_o my_o own_o personal_a experience_n first_o a_o height_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o affection_n throughout_o in_o prayer_n or_o in_o one_o particular_a petition_n thereof_o far_o beyond_o common_a seriousness_n which_o though_o by_o word_n it_o be_v almost_o inexplicable_a so_o as_o to_o make_v the_o unexperience_a christian_a comprehend_v it_o yet_o it_o be_v easy_o perceive_v by_o the_o experience_a christian_a in_o this_o raise_a frame_n of_o the_o soul_n either_o in_o solemn_a or_o ejaculatory_a prayer_n there_o be_v such_o heavenliness_n of_o thought_n as_o if_o the_o soul_n be_v already_o in_o heaven_n enjoyment_n and_o for_o the_o comfort_n of_o young_a observer_n i_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o my_o spirituality_n of_o frame_n in_o prayer_n the_o real_a preparation_n of_o christ_n spirit_n to_o ask_v and_o certain_o evidential_a of_o god_n return_n be_v at_o first_o observe_v to_o be_v much_o less_o in_o degree_n though_o the_o same_o in_o nature_n than_o now_o it_o be_v one_o degree_n of_o experimental_a knowledge_n prepare_v for_o far_a degree_n this_o bring_v to_o my_o thought_n the_o gradual_a rise_n of_o christian_n meetness_n for_o heaven_n by_o christ_n spirit_n in_o his_o common_a way_n of_o work_v by_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n of_o which_o observe_v christian_n be_v sweet_o sensible_a second_o another_o mark_n of_o christ_n spirit_n be_v intercession_n in_o prayer_n as_o token_n of_o god_n acceptance_n thereof_o and_o his_o return_n thereto_o be_v when_o with_o a_o address_n so_o spiritual_o perform_v go_v along_o a_o comfortable_a quiet_n of_o mind_n concern_v the_o event_n though_o the_o praying-believer_n be_v encompass_v with_o affliction_n a_o calm_a composure_n of_o mind_n in_o our_o trust_n upon_o the_o gracious_a will_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n to_o dispose_v of_o all_o thing_n concern_v we_o be_v our_o duty_n but_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n and_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o be_v style_v the_o comforter_n we_o must_v observe_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n what_o he_o command_v we_o to_o do_v he_o promise_v to_o enable_v we_o to_o do_v he_o command_v we_o that_o sin_n shall_v not_o reign_v in_o our_o mortal_a body_n and_o he_o have_v promise_v that_o sin_n shall_v not_o have_v dominion_n over_o we_o in_o like_a manner_n god_n command_v we_o to_o be_v careful_a for_o nothing_o but_o by_o supplication_n to_o lay_v our_o request_n before_o god_n and_o certain_o freedom_n from_o anxiety_n and_o disquiet_n and_o a_o full_a possession_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o patience_n concern_v any_o thing_n in_o commend_v our_o affair_n to_o god_n by_o prayer_n be_v the_o product_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n and_o not_o from_o the_o natural_a temper_n and_o stayedness_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o where_o the_o christian_a actual_o experience_n it_o in_o prayer_n he_o may_v safe_o conclude_v himself_o influence_v by_o a_o divine_a spirit_n not_o only_o in_o raise_v his_o frame_n to_o ask_v but_o leave_v it_o at_o god_n footstool_n as_o to_o the_o event_n and_o that_o as_o presage_v of_o god_n return_v favour_n and_o introductive_a of_o his_o blessing_n the_o promise_n of_o god_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o this_o trust_n psal_n 37.5_o commit_v thy_o way_n unto_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o shall_v bring_v it_o to_o pass_v the_o habit_n of_o resignation_n may_v be_v in_o the_o soul_n but_o it_o be_v draw_v forth_o into_o exercise_n by_o the_o renew_a influence_n of_o the_o spirit_n three_o you_o may_v judge_v of_o the_o intercession_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o your_o soul_n in_o address_v god_n by_o prayer_n by_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n that_o bring_v about_o the_o return_n of_o this_o prayer_n in_o the_o observation_n whereof_o the_o speciality_n of_o a_o divine_a hand_n in_o the_o providence_n bring_v the_o return_n about_o be_v as_o discoverable_a as_o immediateness_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n influence_v the_o soul_n to_o ask_v with_o calm_a and_o resign_v submission_n as_o to_o the_o event_n the_o observe_a christian_n do_v often_o see_v these_o two_o join_v together_o and_o each_o illustrate_v one_o another_o where_o other_o do_v not_o or_o hardly_o be_v at_o the_o pain_n to_o observe_v the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o and_o what_o the_o psalmist_n in_o the_o first_o ver_fw-la of_o the_o 116th_o psal_n in_o the_o five_o ver_fw-la of_o the_o 118th_o psalm_n and_o in_o the_o 121st_o psalm_n find_v that_o prayer_n return_v observe_v and_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n discover_v or_o bring_v it_o about_o be_v powerful_a in_o bring_v his_o soul_n to_o the_o actual_a exercise_n of_o love_n to_o reliance_n upon_o admiration_n and_o praise_n of_o god_n i_o love_v the_o lord_n because_o he_o have_v hear_v my_o supplication_n i_o call_v to_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o hear_v i_o therefore_o shall_v i_o see_v my_o desire_n and_o he_o be_v now_o my_o strength_n and_o my_o song_n i_o will_v praise_v thou_o for_o thou_o have_v hear_v i_o and_o be_v become_v my_o salvation_n the_o unobserve_a christian_a therefore_o of_o prayer_n return_v and_o of_o
all_o his_o way_n more_o strict_o and_o pray_v more_o frequent_o and_o fervent_o and_o read_v and_o hear_v the_o word_n with_o more_o application_n they_o will_v feel_v the_o power_n of_o godliness_n revive_v in_o their_o soul_n and_o will_v show_v forth_o the_o beauty_n of_o holiness_n in_o their_o conversation_n which_o will_v be_v convince_a of_o other_o that_o religion_n be_v a_o divine_a disposition_n productive_a of_o fruit_n suitable_a to_o it_o a_o holy_a habit_n of_o soul_n may_v be_v preserve_v in_o the_o business_n and_o diversion_n of_o the_o world_n by_o our_o constant_a converse_n with_o heaven_n every_o day_n you_o have_v two_o excellent_a motive_n to_o this_o exhortation_n first_o because_o it_o may_v be_v do_v without_o any_o hindrance_n to_o your_o business_n and_o lawful_a diversion_n how_o easy_a be_v it_o in_o the_o morning_n before_o you_o enter_v into_o worldly_a affair_n to_o read_v a_o chapter_n with_o pool_n annotation_n and_o to_o give_v yourselves_o and_o all_o your_o concern_v by_o prayer_n to_o the_o conduct_n of_o a_o divine_a hand_n to_o direct_v and_o succeed_v your_o lawful_a endeavour_n how_o easy_a be_v it_o through_o the_o day_n while_o in_o the_o midst_n and_o course_n of_o your_o lawful_a business_n to_o direct_v a_o ejaculatory_a desire_n lord_n let_v my_o endeavour_n be_v according_a to_o duty_n on_o my_o part_n and_o accompany_v with_o a_o discovery_n of_o mercy_n in_o the_o event_n and_o according_a to_o the_o many_o endeavour_n you_o be_v active_a in_o throughout_o a_o day_n so_o many_o ejaculatory_a petition_n in_o a_o serious_a frame_n to_o be_v repeat_v which_o you_o will_v observe_v to_o issue_v in_o great_a inward_a knowledge_n and_o perhaps_o great_a success_n to_o business_n as_o a_o occasion_n of_o turn_v your_o many_o and_o various_a ejaculatory_a petition_n to_o one_o solemn_a duty_n of_o praise_n in_o the_o evening_n how_o easy_a be_v it_o in_o a_o evening_n in_o your_o shop_n or_o closet_n to_o record_v that_o in_o such_o a_o endeavour_n you_o be_v keep_v serious_a with_o god_n in_o your_o thought_n and_o you_o be_v blessed_v according_o the_o remembrance_n whereof_o will_v make_v you_o ready_a in_o all_o your_o affair_n to_o pray_v for_o the_o divine_a blessing_n and_o depend_v upon_o god_n in_o do_v your_o duty_n and_o thankful_a for_o his_o succeed_v your_o endeavour_n the_o second_o be_v that_o this_o constant_a look_v to_o god_n in_o prayer_n ejaculatory_a or_o solemn_a with_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n will_v enable_v we_o to_o perform_v the_o work_n of_o our_o ordinary_a calling_n with_o less_o trouble_n to_o our_o mind_n and_o toil_n to_o our_o body_n this_o will_v cure_v the_o anxiety_n of_o our_o mind_n concern_v the_o event_n and_o consequent_o make_v we_o more_o moderate_a and_o orderly_a in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n it_o be_v the_o anxious_a desire_n of_o obtain_v a_o event_n the_o great_a fear_n of_o lose_v it_o that_o set_v people_n mind_n on_o the_o rack_n to_o contrive_v mean_n and_o their_o body_n on_o the_o hurry_n to_o use_v these_o mean_n and_o how_o often_o do_v unsuccessfulness_n accompany_v both_o whereas_o by_o observation_n of_o god_n the_o governor_n of_o all_o thing_n access_n to_o he_o for_o his_o favour_n in_o any_o thing_n be_v discover_v to_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o the_o dutiful_a use_n of_o mean_n be_v successful_a by_o his_o favour_n when_o the_o eager_a pursuit_n of_o a_o desire_a thing_n have_v be_v ineffectual_a this_o have_v be_v verify_v to_o all_o by_o many_o experience_n and_o therefore_o shall_v add_v this_o advice_n as_o the_o sum_n of_o all_o to_o use_v mean_n with_o the_o same_o diligence_n as_o if_o by_o they_o alone_o without_o a_o divine_a hand_n event_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v to_o eye_n god_n with_o a_o reliance_n upon_o he_o for_o event_n as_o much_o as_o if_o they_o be_v to_o be_v bring_v forth_o by_o he_o without_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n by_o which_o rule_n i_o will_v reprove_v the_o censure_n against_o god_n child_n who_o from_o their_o dutiful_a diligence_n in_o business_n without_o the_o intermixture_n of_o pleasure_n in_o fear_n of_o lose_v providential_a opportunity_n in_o it_o be_v repute_v covetous_a and_o advise_v other_o to_o judge_v themselves_o by_o their_o inward_a aim_n if_o conform_a to_o god_n will_n and_o whatever_o be_v the_o censure_n of_o man_n they_o thereby_o prevent_v the_o condemn_a sentence_n of_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n and_o judge_n it_o be_v neither_o the_o character_n or_o censure_n of_o any_o that_o aught_o to_o bound_v our_o endeavour_n but_o the_o be_v in_o duty_n or_o out_o of_o duty_n and_o the_o regard_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o all_o our_o way_n reflection_n that_o must_v natural_o follow_v the_o perusal_n of_o what_o be_v write_v first_o that_o the_o author_n have_v feel_v such_o experience_n of_o a_o inward_a change_n upon_o his_o soul_n without_o any_o other_o hand_n of_o his_o own_o therein_o than_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n above_o recite_v ought_v i_o not_o to_o believe_v there_o be_v a_o knowledge_n above_o human_a judgement_n and_o a_o power_n above_o natural_a strength_n for_o otherwise_o he_o have_v continue_v in_o the_o same_o ignorance_n of_o god_n then_o appear_v sufficient_a knowledge_n wherein_o he_o be_v involve_v for_o many_o year_n though_o enjoy_v the_o outward_a dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n second_o that_o it_o be_v but_o suitable_a to_o christian_a affection_n in_o he_o to_o endeavour_v that_o other_o may_v tread_v in_o the_o same_o step_n with_o the_o same_o success_n especial_o find_v some_o minister_n in_o their_o sermon_n to_o run_v from_o plainness_n and_o experience_n to_o rhetoric_n and_o notion_n and_o find_v the_o care_n of_o christian_n more_o to_o run_v out_o upon_o argue_v the_o notion_n of_o religion_n than_o the_o confirm_v divine_a truth_n and_o the_o establish_v the_o mind_n of_o other_o by_o the_o seal_n of_o their_o own_o experience_n if_o experimental_a religion_n be_v more_o teach_v in_o sermon_n and_o discourse_v of_o among_o christian_n the_o performance_n of_o holy_a duty_n wherein_o it_o be_v obtain_v will_v not_o be_v think_v a_o mere_a fancy_n and_o the_o light_n and_o beauty_n of_o grace_n will_v more_o shine_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n a_o three_o meditation_n ensue_v upon_o the_o second_o may_v be_v whether_o you_o have_v not_o some_o long_n after_o the_o same_o establish_v experience_n if_o you_o have_v these_o long_n may_v be_v kindle_v by_o the_o consideration_n of_o their_o be_v attainable_a i_o be_v once_o so_o carnal_a as_o only_o to_o look_v to_o thing_n see_v and_o think_v the_o reliance_n upon_o a_o unseen_a superior_a power_n to_o be_v a_o vain_a imagination_n but_o god_n in_o his_o excellent_a mercy_n have_v convince_v i_o beyond_o all_o doubt_n of_o his_o govern_n providence_n that_o dispose_v of_o event_n for_o the_o good_a of_o those_o who_o wait_v upon_o he_o and_o the_o same_o goodness_n will_v be_v extend_v to_o all_o that_o sincere_o seek_v his_o face_n for_o ever_o we_o must_v regard_v the_o word_n as_o our_o rule_n the_o spirit_n as_o our_o guide_n to_o direct_v we_o by_o that_o rule_n and_o the_o dispensation_n of_o providence_n correspondent_a to_o that_o rule_n and_o we_o shall_v be_v preserve_v from_o the_o atheistical_a neglect_n of_o god_n and_o from_o the_o fancy_n and_o frenzy_n of_o those_o who_o pretend_v to_o inspiration_n from_o above_o and_o from_o do_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v direct_o and_o scandalous_o contrary_a to_o the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n o_o that_o christian_n will_v earnest_o pray_v for_o the_o holy_a spirit_n that_o by_o his_o directing-light_n they_o may_v understand_v the_o scripture_n and_o by_o his_o warm_a impress_v they_o on_o their_o heart_n they_o may_v feel_v their_o cleanse_n and_o comfort_v power_n but_o true_o christian_n in_o our_o day_n be_v not_o much_o concern_v to_o mind_n and_o try_v the_o work_n of_o god_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n nor_o seek_v after_o knowledge_n of_o he_o by_o his_o operation_n in_o other_o the_o observation_n of_o ourselves_o and_o the_o communion_n of_o saint_n be_v rare_a duty_n we_o live_v at_o a_o distance_n from_o ourselves_o and_o in_o converse_n with_o other_o the_o subject_n of_o our_o discourse_n be_v the_o present_a world_n or_o notional_a religion_n which_o occasion_n dissension_n and_o faction_n whereas_o the_o mutual_a communicate_v of_o christian_n to_o one_o another_o what_o god_n have_v do_v for_o their_o soul_n and_o how_o various_o according_a to_o their_o want_n their_o desire_n their_o sorrow_n and_o fear_n he_o have_v attemper_v his_o dispensation_n will_v be_v a_o excellent_a mean_n to_o raise_v their_o admiration_n of_o his_o condescend_v and_o compassionate_a goodness_n and_o of_o his_o wisdom_n and_o establish_v their_o joyful_a trust_n in_o he_o four_o if_o you_o have_v any_o longing_n and_o find_v it_o
begin_v your_o morning_n duty_n with_o read_v a_o psalm_n or_o a_o chapter_n by_o pool_n annotation_n observe_v the_o word_n and_o sentence_n thereof_o that_o impress_v your_o mind_n most_o with_o serious_a advertency_n to_o they_o observe_v the_o thought_n that_o thence_o arise_v at_o the_o time_n if_o tend_v to_o explain_v what_o former_o you_o be_v ignorant_a of_o if_o tend_v to_o establish_v you_o in_o what_o former_o you_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o if_o tend_v to_o make_v you_o resolve_v you_o will_v conform_v to_o it_o or_o if_o tend_v to_o comfort_v you_o as_o have_v walk_v conform_v to_o it_o and_o thereby_o discover_v yourself_o in_o the_o read_n such_o a_o portion_n of_o scripture_n three_o enter_v upon_o private_a prayer_n with_o a_o serious_a acknowledgement_n of_o god_n favour_n in_o conduct_v you_o through_o the_o night_n and_o with_o a_o sincere_a supplication_n to_o he_o for_o his_o conduct_n through_o the_o day_n by_o his_o special_a providence_n and_o spirit_n that_o from_o the_o evidence_n of_o both_o through_o the_o day_n you_o may_v discover_v his_o special_a favour_n to_o your_o soul_n as_o a_o comfortable_a evening_n cordial_a and_o that_o by_o his_o supply_n of_o grace_n throughout_o the_o day_n you_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o bless_a improvement_n of_o both_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o trust_n in_o and_o love_n to_o the_o godhead_n for_o life_n and_o salvation_n observe_v your_o frame_n of_o soul_n throughout_o this_o prayer_n observe_v if_o it_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o seriousness_n throughout_o the_o whole_a or_o vary_v according_a to_o the_o various_a petition_n put_v up_o observe_v and_o record_v the_o different_a frames_n and_o different_a petition_n four_o go_v forth_o thus_o prepare_v to_o your_o lawful_a business_n and_o conversation_n in_o your_o business_n through_o the_o day_n observe_v first_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n that_o seem_v to_o bring_v undertake_n to_o your_o hand_n second_o observe_v your_o own_o endeavour_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o three_o the_o event_n of_o each_o undertake_n in_o your_o conversation_n through_o the_o day_n observe_v 1._o the_o occasion_n of_o your_o entrance_n into_o it_o whether_o idleness_n lust_n within_o necessity_n or_o recreation_n 2._o the_o frame_n of_o your_o mind_n while_n in_o it_o whether_o on_o your_o watch_n against_o the_o evil_n thereof_o and_o 3._o the_o issue_n of_o it_o whether_o freedom_n from_o or_o commission_n of_o sin_n but_o now_o in_o the_o evening_n of_o the_o day_n reflection_n according_a to_o the_o observation_n and_o record_n of_o the_o day_n be_v the_o duty_n precede_v your_o last_o closet_n prayer_n and_o to_o be_v recommend_v to_o your_o practice_n perform_v it_o in_o the_o follow_a part_n first_o reflect_v upon_o the_o frame_n of_o your_o soul_n that_o you_o observe_v in_o the_o morning_n whether_o by_o the_o duty_n of_o read_v and_o prayer_n it_o be_v not_o bring_v to_o a_o seriousness_n if_o observe_v to_o be_v unserious_a or_o to_o a_o great_a seriousness_n than_o the_o degree_n of_o seriousness_n at_o first_o observe_v yea_o perhaps_o to_o great_a heavenliness_n the_o improvement_n whereof_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o it_o be_v good_a to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n in_o the_o duty_n he_o have_v prescribe_v and_o a_o fix_a resolution_n to_o walk_v therein_o and_o perhaps_o daily_a continuance_n may_v bring_v in_o daily_a addition_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o grace_n and_o preserve_v the_o christian_a in_o daily_a heavenliness_n of_o soul_n as_o bulwark_n against_o all_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o day_n with_o honour_n to_o god_n and_o great_a inward_a peace_n second_o reflect_v upon_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n round_o you_o through_o the_o day_n and_o first_o of_o all_o compare_v they_o to_o the_o part_n of_o the_o scripture_n you_o read_v in_o the_o morning_n and_o to_o the_o thought_n that_o then_o most_o impress_v your_o mind_n to_o see_v whether_o or_o not_o these_o passage_n of_o divine_a providence_n afford_v you_o some_o discovery_n of_o the_o reality_n of_o that_o part_n of_o the_o scripture_n thus_o observe_v establish_v your_o faith_n in_o it_o the_o improvement_n whereof_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o resolution_n to_o go_v on_o in_o the_o same_o duty_n of_o read_v the_o scripture_n in_o the_o morning_n before_o the_o enter_v upon_o the_o business_n of_o the_o day_n and_o perhaps_o there_o will_v arise_v to_o your_o sensible_a experience_n great_a knowledge_n of_o god_n word_n than_o ever_o yet_o have_v be_v observe_v by_o you_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o outward_a instruction_n yea_o such_o establishment_n to_o its_o truth_n and_o reality_n as_o can_v not_o be_v bring_v forth_o by_o the_o strong_a arguing_n of_o the_o most_o learned_a and_o into_o which_o the_o strong_a dart_n of_o erroneous_a sophistry_n can_v never_o pierce_v enable_v your_o soul_n not_o only_o to_o see_v the_o reality_n but_o even_o harmony_n of_o god_n word_n to_o his_o providence_n and_o spirit_n second_o compare_v the_o providence_n of_o the_o day_n to_o your_o morning-duty_n of_o closet-prayer_n to_o the_o petition_n therein_o put_v up_o and_o to_o the_o frame_n of_o soul_n you_o be_v then_o under_o that_o you_o may_v discover_v what_o passage_n of_o providence_n seem_v to_o be_v afford_v you_o in_o return_n to_o prayer_n and_o what_o frame_n your_o soul_n be_v in_o and_o what_o be_v your_o utterance_n in_o that_o prayer_n or_o part_v thereof_o that_o be_v return_v the_o improvement_n whereof_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o access_n to_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o be_v always_o in_o that_o frame_n wherein_o you_o be_v when_o you_o pray_v that_o prayer_n that_o be_v so_o visible_o return_v it_o will_v help_v you_o to_o see_v a_o difference_n between_o one_o kind_n of_o prayer_n and_o another_o between_o a_o prayer_n with_o our_o own_o spirit_n and_o with_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n between_o a_o prayer_n with_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n enable_v to_o ask_v sincere_o and_o a_o prayer_n with_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n give_v the_o soul_n the_o comfortable_a sense_n of_o it_o as_o such_o and_o discover_v the_o reality_n of_o a_o divine_a strength_n above_o ourselves_o both_o bring_v the_o providence_n of_o the_o day_n to_o we_o and_o bring_v forth_o the_o improvement_n thereof_o in_o we_o by_o a_o gradual_a advancement_n of_o reliance_n upon_o and_o love_n to_o the_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n by_o who_o satisfaction_n this_o once-sealed_a fountain_n be_v open_v and_o by_o who_o spirit_n its_o water_n of_o spiritual_a life_n continual_o flow_v upon_o we_o and_o in_o the_o use_n of_o duty_n apply_v to_o we_o three_o reflect_v upon_o your_o own_o way_n of_o manage_v business_n and_o conversation_n with_o other_o that_o so_o you_o may_v not_o only_o discover_v a_o special_a providence_n round_o you_o but_o the_o act_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n within_o you_o and_o that_o by_o compare_v first_o your_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n lay_v undertake_n in_o your_o way_n through_o the_o day_n reflect_v whether_o god_n be_v observe_v in_o bring_v they_o about_o as_o a_o discovery_n of_o divine_a strength_n in_o you_o carry_v your_o observation_n beyond_o the_o enjoyment_n even_o to_o god_n himself_o second_o by_o compare_v your_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o your_o method_n of_o use_v mean_n and_o manage_v endeavour_n thus_o providential_o lay_v in_o your_o way_n not_o only_o whether_o god_n be_v regard_v therein_o lay_v providence_n in_o your_o way_n or_o help_v you_o to_o observe_v he_o but_o whether_o your_o concern_n run_v out_o chief_o upon_o do_v duty_n neither_o design_v ill_a end_n nor_o endeavour_v to_o bring_v about_o any_o purpose_n in_o the_o use_n of_o ill_a mean_n but_o regard_v duty_n to_o he_o in_o all_o three_o compare_v your_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o the_o event_n of_o such_o undertake_n thus_o providential_o lay_v in_o your_o way_n and_o thus_o faithful_o manage_v by_o you_o if_o they_o be_v according_a to_o expectation_n or_o better_a than_o expectation_n reflect_v whether_o exercise_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o love_n and_o faith_n be_v not_o and_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v bring_v forth_o by_o such_o a_o discovery_n and_o a_o fix_a resolution_n to_o keep_v on_o in_o the_o same_o lawful_a use_n of_o mean_n with_o a_o trust_n to_o divine_a supply_n for_o event_n as_o full_a evidence_n of_o the_o work_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o your_o soul_n and_o of_o your_o be_v under_o his_o spiritual_a conduct_n in_o conversation_n with_o other_o 1._o reflect_v upon_o your_o entrance_n to_o it_o whether_o its_o occasion_n be_v necessity_n and_o innocent_a recreation_n with_o a_o previous_a address_n for_o divine_a conduct_n in_o it_o 2._o reflect_v upon_o your_o carriage_n in_o it_o thus_o prepare_v the_o temptation_n
become_v effectual_a and_o if_o you_o slight_a a_o weak_a preacher_n under_o who_o instruction_n you_o be_v by_o the_o designation_n of_o providence_n and_o choose_v to_o go_v to_o one_o more_o learned_a and_o please_a you_o have_v not_o so_o good_a a_o warrant_n to_o expect_v a_o blessing_n partly_o because_o of_o your_o neglect_v the_o appoint_a mean_n for_o your_o spiritual_a profit_n partly_o lest_o you_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o limit_n god_n to_o afford_v his_o blessing_n to_o the_o preach_v of_o one_o and_o not_o of_o another_o whereas_o his_o work_n be_v as_o glorious_a if_o not_o more_o with_o a_o weak_a instrument_n than_o by_o a_o strong_a and_o it_o be_v the_o plain_a serious_a sermon_n that_o i_o have_v many_o time_n find_v most_o please_v to_o myself_o however_o other_o sort_n have_v ravish_v my_o sense_n at_o the_o time_n the_o method_n i_o use_v that_o my_o hear_v the_o word_n preach_v may_v be_v profitable_a be_v and_o be_v to_o examine_v myself_o whether_o i_o can_v assent_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o i_o hear_v from_o my_o own_o experience_n as_o well_o as_o the_o minister_n assertion_n by_o which_o i_o be_v establish_v and_o comfort_v when_o my_o private_a experience_n be_v consonant_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o a_o public_a preacher_n but_o when_o this_o be_v want_v if_o the_o doctrine_n be_v prove_v from_o scripture_n my_o petition_n to_o heaven_n have_v be_v spiritual_o carry_v forth_o that_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v seal_v to_o my_o soul_n by_o feel_v its_o efficacy_n and_o i_o have_v in_o a_o short_a time_n find_v my_o desire_n answer_v by_o the_o operation_n of_o divine_a providence_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o i_o the_o right_a hear_n of_o the_o word_n consist_v not_o in_o a_o grave_n outward_a gesture_n or_o give_v ear_n to_o a_o sermon_n either_o upon_o the_o fundamental_a principle_n of_o christianity_n to_o be_v believe_v or_o the_o practical_a duty_n to_o be_v perform_v but_o you_o must_v compare_v your_o faith_n and_o life_n with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o serious_o without_o the_o intermixture_n of_o wander_a thought_n and_o with_o fervent_a prayer_n for_o a_o divine_a blessing_n sometime_o god_n be_v please_v to_o give_v grace_n more_o rich_o by_o a_o weak_a than_o by_o a_o more_o able_a instrument_n this_o reprove_v many_o who_o content_n themselves_o with_o attendance_n upon_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o with_o a_o outward_a grave_a behaviour_n in_o hear_v but_o never_o seek_v after_o a_o inward_a frame_n of_o heart_n suitable_a to_o the_o word_n so_o that_o a_o serious_a frame_n of_o soul_n as_o well_o as_o a_o grave_a gesture_n of_o body_n a_o reflect_v upon_o and_o compare_v it_o with_o your_o own_o experience_n as_o well_o as_o a_o reflect_v upon_o and_o compare_v it_o to_o your_o own_o notion_n i_o recommend_v to_o all_o that_o will_v hear_v god_n word_n preach_v with_o profit_n thereby_o experience_n of_o god_n method_n in_o train_v i_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o right_n participate_v the_o lord_n supper_n previous_a to_o which_o let_v i_o premise_v my_o opinion_n thereof_o and_o practise_v then_o while_o only_o under_o the_o notional_a knowledge_n of_o christianity_n and_o the_o power_n of_o education_n and_o that_o in_o the_o follow_a part_n first_o that_o by_o the_o strength_n of_o education_n i_o believe_v the_o sacrament_n a_o extraordinary_a ordinance_n solemn_o to_o be_v go_v about_o and_o extraordinary_o to_o be_v prepare_v for_o wonderful_a communion_n with_o god_n be_v there_o to_o be_v enjoy_v of_o which_o i_o never_o then_o have_v feel_v any_o experience_n though_o i_o have_v once_o partake_v of_o it_o with_o all_o seriousness_n by_o the_o instruction_n and_o example_n of_o other_o and_o my_o own_o thought_n of_o the_o solemnity_n of_o that_o ordinance_n but_o without_o any_o other_o seriousness_n than_o what_o be_v wrought_v by_o a_o minister_n affect_v discourse_n and_o delivery_n of_o a_o affect_a subject_n but_o spiritual_a communion_n with_o christ_n without_o which_o sacrament_n communion_n be_v unprofitable_a and_o the_o discovery_n of_o god_n love_n to_o the_o soul_n which_o holy_a minister_n have_v speak_v of_o as_o more_o valuable_a than_o all_o the_o world_n all_o this_o be_v mystery_n to_o i_o and_o not_o desire_v but_o now_o bless_a be_v his_o name_n have_v be_v reveal_v and_o experiment_v in_o my_o soul_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n second_o when_o i_o feel_v a_o inward_a change_n in_o my_o soul_n and_o i_o have_v clear_a knowledge_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o end_n of_o that_o ordinance_n my_o intention_n and_o manner_n of_o performance_n be_v spiritual_a and_o the_o benefit_n concomitant_a and_o consequent_a with_o that_o ordinance_n be_v enjoy_v it_o be_v true_a that_o prayer_n be_v the_o first_o duty_n wherein_o i_o feel_v a_o serious_a hearty_a delight_n and_o understand_v fellowship_n with_o god_n but_o gradual_o i_o advance_v to_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o same_o delight_n and_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n in_o other_o duty_n and_o among_o the_o rest_n in_o that_o duty_n of_o the_o sacrament_n but_o without_o that_o high_a flight_n of_o joy_n as_o sometime_o i_o have_v have_v in_o prayer_n but_o i_o still_o imagine_v that_o though_o i_o have_v not_o attain_v its_o experience_n so_o much_o in_o that_o duty_n yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v enjoy_v therein_o and_o that_o god_n will_v please_v in_o due_a time_n to_o give_v i_o the_o sense_n thereof_o three_o that_o no_o soon_o i_o have_v the_o sense_n of_o this_o inward_a change_n but_o as_o soon_o my_o judgement_n be_v clear_a as_o to_o the_o repetition_n of_o this_o duty_n of_o the_o sacrament_n for_o before_o neither_o the_o read_n of_o the_o institution_n nor_o minister_n preach_v thereupon_o be_v so_o powerful_a as_o to_o induce_v i_o to_o its_o often_o performance_n which_o frequency_n i_o once_o imagine_v sinful_a or_o at_o least_o the_o occasion_n of_o lead_v to_o a_o careless_a sinful_a performance_n thereof_o satan_n like_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n disturb_v my_o tender_a conscience_n with_o this_o argument_n against_o frequent_a communion_n that_o i_o be_v not_o to_o partake_v of_o the_o lord_n table_n without_o a_o week_n solemn_a preparation_n but_o i_o be_v more_o instruct_v concern_v my_o duty_n by_o my_o own_o call_v afterward_o for_o once_o be_v in_o great_a affliction_n both_o inward_a and_o outward_a i_o resolve_v to_o go_v to_o the_o lord_n supper_n imagine_v it_o a_o season_n in_o which_o i_o can_v best_o be_v serious_a and_o thereby_o better_o prepare_v than_o when_o the_o pressure_n of_o the_o affliction_n be_v over_o and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v experience_v as_o the_o great_a comfort_n the_o saint_n declare_v i_o may_v then_o probable_o feel_v they_o and_o according_o do_v partake_v with_o great_a gravity_n and_o inward_a thoughtfulness_n than_o otherwise_o i_o shall_v have_v be_v able_a to_o do_v but_o i_o do_v not_o feel_v those_o raise_a affection_n nor_o that_o inward_a fellowship_n with_o god_n or_o ravish_a joy_n that_o i_o do_v expect_v which_o disappointment_n great_o concern_v i_o satan_n force_v home_o upon_o i_o this_o suggestion_n of_o its_o be_v a_o evidence_n how_o unprepared_a i_o be_v and_o what_o a_o unacceptable_a sacrifice_n i_o offer_v to_o god_n which_o make_v i_o consult_v a_o spiritual_a friend_n who_o sincerity_n and_o judgement_n i_o have_v in_o very_o high_a value_n his_o answer_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v not_o to_o be_v limit_v god_n way_n of_o impart_v himself_o be_v not_o confine_v to_o the_o time_n of_o partake_v this_o ordinance_n but_o you_o may_v judge_v of_o your_o right_a performance_n by_o your_o frame_n before_o and_o after_o as_o well_o as_o in_o the_o duty_n this_o great_o revive_v i_o and_o be_v a_o mean_a of_o quiet_v i_o and_o of_o keep_v i_o in_o the_o frequent_a participation_n of_o the_o ordinance_n the_o truth_n of_o his_o word_n i_o have_v find_v by_o many_o experience_n four_o i_o have_v sometime_o find_v great_a heavenliness_n of_o frame_n before_o the_o partake_v of_o the_o ordinance_n and_o sometime_o after_o it_o even_o when_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o duty_n i_o have_v be_v cold_o affect_v and_o without_o sensible_a comfort_n upon_o hear_v my_o complaint_n my_o friend_n reply_v though_o god_n in_o train_v you_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o himself_o and_o his_o way_n have_v deal_v with_o you_o as_o a_o darling_n child_n with_o wonderful_a smile_a providence_n think_v it_o not_o strange_a if_o have_v obtain_v his_o end_n of_o work_a faith_n of_o reliance_n he_o change_v his_o method_n and_o try_v the_o grace_n he_o have_v wrought_v in_o your_o soul_n five_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n this_o bless_a saint_n be_v at_o a_o distance_n from_o i_o i_o often_o pray_v o_o that_o i_o have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n
in_o this_o ordinance_n that_o i_o may_v feel_v therein_o what_o other_o do_v or_o what_o i_o have_v feel_v in_o other_o duty_n i_o shall_v be_v satisfy_v if_o i_o shall_v never_o enjoy_v it_o there_o again_o unbelief_n still_o work_v in_o i_o it_o please_v god_n in_o his_o wonderful_a condescension_n to_o comply_v with_o this_o desire_n and_o thereby_o to_o discover_v the_o greatness_n of_o my_o weakness_n as_o well_o as_o the_o advantage_n of_o reliance_n upon_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n without_o limit_v he_o to_o our_o desire_n for_o in_o the_o participate_v of_o the_o next_o sacrament_n i_o be_v admit_v to_o such_o a_o sweet_a ravish_a enjoyment_n that_o i_o never_o have_v before_o experience_v in_o that_o duty_n which_o persuade_v i_o of_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o i_o have_v often_o hear_v but_o such_o a_o disquiet_v darkness_n be_v consequent_a both_o in_o my_o mind_n and_o outward_a affair_n that_o i_o by_o the_o rich_a mercy_n and_o power_n of_o god_n be_v then_o help_v sweet_o to_o resign_v my_o desire_n to_o his_o will_n and_o to_o supplicate_v for_o his_o influence_n as_o he_o please_v to_o dispense_v they_o never_o limit_v god_n to_o thing_n or_o time_n further_o than_o as_o suitable_a to_o his_o omniscient_a will_n by_o this_o experience_n i_o be_v help_v in_o all_o my_o concern_v less_o as_o well_o as_o great_a to_o cast_v they_o at_o heaven_n gate_n to_o hope_v in_o his_o mercy_n for_o they_o with_o this_o desire_n only_o that_o i_o may_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n be_v assist_v to_o make_v know_v my_o request_n to_o god_n with_o faith_n and_o resignation_n so_o as_o to_o be_v accept_v of_o he_o and_o in_o this_o i_o find_v my_o heart_n ease_n i_o have_v since_o esteem_v it_o duty_n and_o have_v ardent_a desire_n of_o partake_v the_o lord_n supper_n every_o month._n while_o my_o religion_n be_v mere_o from_o education_n i_o think_v once_o in_o a_o year_n or_o two_o enough_o to_o partake_v of_o this_o ordinance_n but_o since_o my_o regard_n to_o my_o sovereign_n and_o saviour_n command_n do_v this_o in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o and_o my_o performance_n in_o obedience_n to_o this_o command_n i_o have_v enjoy_v ravish_v sweetness_n in_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o this_o duty_n and_o i_o shall_v add_v that_o the_o frequent_a repeat_n of_o this_o ordinance_n be_v attend_v with_o great_a advantage_n for_o by_o preparatory_a examination_n i_o be_o more_o full_o acquaint_v with_o my_o spiritual_a state_n with_o my_o present_a corruption_n and_o grace_n strong_a or_o weak_a and_o the_o way_n how_o god_n make_v this_o duty_n a_o mean_a to_o suppress_v the_o one_o and_o raise_v the_o other_o with_o my_o defect_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o i_o have_v a_o full_a sight_n of_o christ_n in_o all-sufficient_a merit_n in_o his_o treasure_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v open_v to_o all_o that_o come_v with_o holy_a affection_n to_o he_o the_o serious_a and_o frequent_a renew_v our_o covenant_n with_o christ_n in_o this_o ordinance_n will_v endear_v he_o to_o we_o and_o engage_v we_o to_o live_v to_o he_o who_o die_v for_o we_o and_o the_o warm_a impression_n of_o his_o love_n will_v be_v maintain_v in_o our_o soul_n which_o be_v too_o apt_a to_o cool_v and_o decline_v unless_o feed_v and_o revive_v by_o the_o frequent_a contemplation_n of_o our_o crucify_a saviour_n seven_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o celebration_n of_o this_o ordinance_n i_o have_v oft_o be_v in_o a_o cold_a frame_n but_o at_o the_o approach_n of_o the_o element_n this_o frame_n have_v change_v and_o my_o soul_n have_v be_v sweet_o carry_v forth_o to_o petition_n for_o the_o impart_v the_o privilege_n of_o christ_n body_n break_v and_o benefit_n annex_v to_o it_o and_o i_o have_v find_v from_o receive_v the_o element_n the_o strengthen_v power_n of_o the_o spirit_n verify_v our_o saviour_n word_n that_o his_o flesh_n be_v meat_n indeed_o and_o his_o blood_n drink_v indeed_o this_o have_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o preserve_v i_o from_o anxiety_n and_o to_o persevere_v in_o the_o frequent_a commemorate_n of_o christ_n death_n prescribe_v in_o his_o last_o will_n i_o also_o find_v that_o the_o more_o frequent_a renew_v my_o vow_n make_v i_o more_o careful_a to_o perform_v they_o and_o that_o it_o be_v more_o easy_a to_o take_v a_o account_n of_o our_o faithfulness_n to_o god_n and_o our_o soul_n or_o of_o our_o neglect_v once_o every_o month_n than_o when_o there_o be_v a_o great_a distance_n between_o the_o time_n of_o our_o receive_v and_o examine_v ourselves_o how_o correspondent_a our_o conversation_n have_v be_v to_o our_o covenant_n seal_v in_o that_o ordinance_n eight_o at_o the_o time_n of_o partake_v this_o ordinance_n i_o have_v often_o desire_v with_o ardent_a affection_n two_o thing_n that_o i_o may_v be_v spiritually-minded_n in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o my_o life_n and_o that_o holiness_n may_v be_v advance_v in_o my_o soul_n till_o i_o arrive_v at_o perfection_n this_o will_v be_v attend_v with_o solid_a comfort_n according_a to_o the_o promise_n great_a peace_n to_o those_o who_o keep_v thy_o law_n and_o although_o we_o be_v to_o seek_v the_o shine_a face_n of_o god_n the_o joyful_a assurance_n of_o his_o love_n in_o the_o use_n of_o his_o ordinance_n yet_o since_o the_o shed_n abroad_o in_o the_o soul_n the_o clear_a evidence_n of_o god_n love_n be_v a_o free_a dispensation_n according_a to_o the_o divine_a pleasure_n my_o principal_a request_n have_v be_v to_o have_v a_o pure_a heart_n and_o holy_a conversation_n depend_v upon_o god_n for_o inward_a comfort_n from_o which_o experience_n you_o may_v upon_o good_a ground_n fear_n that_o when_o the_o excuse_n of_o neglect_v the_o sacrament_n be_v because_o of_o its_o be_v a_o solemn_a ordinance_n and_o therefore_o to_o be_v seldom_o receive_v be_v a_o error_n of_o the_o carnal_a mind_n and_o a_o temptation_n of_o satan_n to_o divert_v we_o from_o use_v frequent_o that_o mean_n of_o grace_n which_o confirm_v our_o faith_n inflame_v our_o love_n and_o secure_v our_o hope_n of_o glory_n and_o make_v we_o more_o exact_a and_o constant_a and_o comfortable_a in_o the_o everlasting_a way_n i_o shall_v conclude_v this_o with_o advice_n to_o those_o who_o have_v not_o feel_v those_o joyful_a emanation_n in_o this_o ordinance_n which_o they_o have_v expect_v and_o other_o of_o the_o saint_n have_v enjoy_v be_v not_o discourage_v from_o your_o duty_n but_o with_o unfainting_a perseverance_n continue_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n the_o lord_n wait_v to_o be_v gracious_a to_o bestow_v his_o comfort_n in_o the_o best_a season_n there_o be_v sweet_a peace_n in_o our_o obedience_n to_o the_o divine_a command_n though_o we_o have_v not_o rapture_n of_o joy_n and_o our_o obedience_n be_v more_o please_v to_o god_n when_o notwithstanding_o all_o difficulty_n and_o discouragement_n it_o be_v with_o conscience_n to_o his_o commanding-will_a perform_v than_o when_o it_o be_v make_v easy_a by_o sensible_a comfort_n the_o applicatory_a and_o second_o part_n of_o this_o discourse_n christianity_n as_o be_v describe_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v experience_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o real_a christian_n in_o different_a degree_n of_o knowledge_n and_o power_n but_o the_o most_o who_o be_v christian_n in_o profession_n be_v stranger_n to_o its_o vital_a efficacy_n the_o reason_n of_o this_o diversity_n be_v because_o the_o most_o rest_n in_o the_o speculative_a notion_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n and_o be_v content_v with_o the_o external_a character_n of_o other_o other_o be_v cleanse_v and_o change_v by_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o be_v inward_a christian_n among_o christian_n in_o title_n there_o be_v various_a division_n and_o contrary_a sentiment_n according_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o the_o education_n which_o often_o cause_n violent_a contention_n among_o they_o among_o real_a christian_n there_o be_v difference_n but_o not_o of_o so_o deep_a a_o nature_n some_o christian_n be_v weak_a by_o damp_v of_o this_o powerful_a principle_n of_o regeneration_n through_o too_o long_a omission_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n or_o by_o too_o deep_o mix_v the_o thought_n and_o affection_n in_o the_o business_n of_o the_o world_n or_o by_o a_o levity_n of_o mind_n in_o their_o indulge_v too_o free_a a_o use_n of_o sensitive_a pleasure_n that_o be_v innocent_a in_o their_o nature_n and_o from_o these_o reason_n it_o be_v that_o spiritual_a influence_n be_v obstruct_v and_o the_o divine_a nature_n in_o christian_n be_v not_o so_o lively_a and_o vigorous_a as_o in_o other_o who_o regard_n their_o soul_n and_o internal_a thing_n with_o great_a application_n and_o diligence_n sometime_o carnal_a pride_n insinuate_v into_o those_o who_o be_v real_a christian_n and_o to_o maintain_v their_o party_n and_o to_o be_v distinguish_v from_o other_o