reckon_v that_o the_o suffering_n of_o this_o present_a time_n be_v not_o to_o be_v compare_v with_o the_o glory_n that_o shall_v be_v reveal_v in_o we_o there_o be_v no_o comparison_n between_o they_o as_o if_o one_o have_v as_o much_o evil_a and_o misery_n in_o they_o as_o the_o other_o have_v of_o good_a and_o blessedness_n as_o though_o his_o state_n be_v any_o way_n to_o be_v complain_v of_o who_o must_v undergo_v the_o one_o while_o he_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o the_o other_o or_o as_o though_o to_o escape_v the_o one_o he_o hazard_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o other_o it_o be_v inseparable_a from_o our_o nature_n to_o have_v a_o fear_n of_o and_o aversation_n from_o great_a distress_a suffering_n that_o be_v above_o the_o power_n of_o nature_n to_o bear_v even_o our_o lord_n jesus_n himself_o have_v take_v on_o he_o all_o the_o sinless_a property_n of_o our_o nature_n have_v a_o fear_n and_o aversation_n though_o holy_a and_o gracious_a with_o respect_n unto_o his_o own_o those_o who_o through_o a_o stoutheartedness_n do_v contemn_v they_o before_o their_o approach_n boast_v in_o themselves_o of_o their_o ability_n to_o undergo_v they_o censure_v such_o as_o will_v not_o unadvised_o engage_v in_o they_o be_v such_o as_o seldom_o glorify_v god_n when_o they_o be_v real_o to_o conflict_n with_o they_o peter_n alone_o trust_v unto_o himself_o that_o he_o will_v not_o forsake_v his_o master_n and_o seem_v to_o take_v the_o warn_v ill_o that_o they_o shall_v all_o do_v so_o and_o he_o alone_o deny_v he_o all_o church_n story_n be_v fill_v with_o instance_n of_o such_o as_o have_v bear_v themselves_o high_a before_o the_o approach_n of_o trial_n have_v shameful_o miscarry_v when_o their_o trial_n have_v come_v wherefore_o it_o be_v moreover_o allow_v unto_o we_o to_o use_v all_o lawful_a mean_n for_o the_o avoid_n of_o they_o both_o rule_n and_o example_n of_o the_o scripture_n give_v sufficient_a warranty_n for_o it_o but_o there_o be_v time_n and_o season_n wherein_o without_o any_o tergiversation_n they_o be_v to_o be_v undergo_v unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o our_o duty_n confess_v christ_n before_o man_n as_o we_o will_v be_v own_v by_o he_o before_o his_o father_n in_o heaven_n all_o thing_n do_v now_o call_v we_o to_o prepare_v for_o such_o a_o season_n to_o be_v martyr_n in_o resolution_n though_o we_o shall_v never_o real_o lose_v our_o life_n by_o violence_n nothing_o will_v give_v we_o this_o preparation_n but_o to_o have_v our_o mind_n exercise_v in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n of_o thing_n that_o be_v invisible_a and_o eternal_a he_o who_o be_v thus_o spiritual_o mind_a who_o have_v his_o thought_n and_o affection_n set_v on_o thing_n above_o will_v have_v always_o in_o a_o readiness_n what_o to_o oppose_v unto_o any_o circumstance_n of_o his_o suffering_n those_o view_n which_o such_o a_o one_o have_v have_v by_o faith_n of_o the_o increated_a glory_n above_o of_o the_o thing_n in_o heavenly_a place_n where_o christ_n sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n of_o the_o glory_n within_o the_o veil_n whereby_o they_o have_v be_v realize_v and_o make_v present_a unto_o his_o soul_n will_v now_o visit_v he_o every_o moment_n abide_v with_o he_o continual_o and_o put_v forth_o their_o efficacy_n unto_o his_o supportment_n and_o refreshment_n alas_o what_o will_v become_v of_o many_o of_o we_o who_o be_v grovel_v continual_o on_o the_o earth_n who_o belly_n cleave_v unto_o the_o dust_n who_o be_v stranger_n unto_o the_o thought_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n when_o distress_v trouble_n shall_v befall_v we_o why_o shall_v we_o think_v that_o refresh_a thought_n of_o thing_n above_o will_n then_o visit_v our_o soul_n when_o we_o resist_v their_o admittance_n in_o day_n of_o peace_n do_v you_o come_v to_o i_o in_o your_o distress_n say_v jepthe_n when_o in_o the_o time_n of_o your_o peace_n you_o drive_v i_o from_o you_o when_o we_o will_v thus_o think_v of_o heavenly_a thing_n to_o our_o refreshment_n we_o shall_v hardly_o get_v they_o to_o make_v a_o abode_n with_o we_o i_o know_v god_n can_v come_v in_o by_o the_o mighty_a power_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o grace_n to_o support_v and_o comfort_v the_o soul_n of_o they_o who_o be_v call_v and_o even_o surprise_v into_o the_o great_a of_o suffering_n yet_o do_v i_o know_v also_o that_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n not_o to_o tempt_v he_o in_o the_o neglect_n of_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n which_o he_o have_v appoint_v for_o the_o communication_n of_o his_o grace_n unto_o we_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n himself_o as_o the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n for_o the_o joy_n that_o be_v set_v before_o he_o endure_v the_o cross_n and_o despise_v the_o shame_n heb._n 12.2_o his_o mediatory_a glory_n in_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o matter_n of_o the_o joy_n set_v before_o he_o this_o he_o take_v the_o view_n and_o prospect_n of_o in_o all_o his_o suffering_n unto_o his_o refreshment_n and_o supportment_n and_o his_o example_n as_o the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n be_v more_o efficacious_o instructive_a than_o any_o other_o rule_n or_o precept_n eternal_a glory_n be_v set_v before_o we_o also_o it_o be_v the_o design_n of_o god_n wisdom_n and_o grace_n that_o by_o the_o contemplation_n of_o it_o we_o shall_v relieve_v ourselves_o in_o all_o our_o suffering_n yea_o and_o rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n how_o many_o of_o those_o bless_a soul_n now_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n and_o glory_n who_o pass_v through_o fiery_a trial_n and_o great_a tribulation_n be_v enable_v to_o sing_v and_o rejoice_v in_o the_o flame_n by_o a_o prepossession_n of_o this_o glory_n in_o their_o mind_n through_o believe_v yea_o some_o have_v be_v so_o fill_v with_o they_o as_o to_o take_v off_o all_o sense_n of_o pain_n under_o the_o most_o exquisite_a torture_n when_o stephen_n be_v to_o be_v stone_v to_o encourage_v he_o in_o his_o suffering_n and_o comfort_v he_o in_o it_o the_o heaven_n be_v open_v and_o he_o see_v jesus_n stand_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n who_o can_v conceive_v what_o contempt_n of_o all_o the_o rage_n and_o madness_n of_o the_o jew_n what_o a_o neglect_n of_o all_o the_o pain_n of_o death_n this_o view_n raise_v his_o holy_a soul_n unto_o to_o obtain_v therefore_o such_o view_v frequent_o by_o faith_n as_o they_o do_v who_o be_v true_o spiritual_o mind_v be_v the_o most_o effectual_a way_n to_o encourage_v we_o unto_o all_o our_o suffering_n the_o apostle_n give_v we_o the_o force_n of_o this_o encouragement_n in_o a_o comparison_n with_o earthly_a thing_n 1_o cor._n 9.25_o every_o man_n who_o strive_v for_o the_o mastery_n be_v temperate_a in_o all_o thing_n now_o they_o do_v it_o to_o obtain_v a_o corruptible_a crown_n but_o we_o a_o incorruptible_a if_o man_n when_o a_o corruptible_a crown_n of_o vain_a honour_n and_o applause_n be_v propose_v unto_o they_o will_v do_v and_o endure_v all_o that_o be_v needful_a for_o the_o attainment_n of_o it_o and_o relieve_v themselves_o in_o their_o hardship_n with_o thought_n and_o imagination_n of_o attain_v it_o ground_v on_o uncertain_a hope_n shall_v not_o we_o who_o have_v a_o crown_n immortal_a and_o invisible_a propose_v unto_o we_o and_o that_o with_o the_o high_a assurance_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o it_o cheerful_o undergo_v endure_v and_o suffer_v what_o we_o be_v to_o go_v through_o in_o the_o way_n unto_o it_o 4._o this_o be_v the_o most_o effectual_a mean_n to_o wean_v the_o heart_n and_o affection_n from_o thing_n here_o below_o to_o keep_v the_o mind_n unto_o a_o undervaluation_n yea_o a_o contempt_n of_o they_o as_o occasion_n shall_v require_v for_o there_o be_v a_o season_n wherein_o there_o be_v such_o a_o contempt_n require_v in_o we_o of_o all_o relation_n and_o enjoyment_n as_o our_o saviour_n call_v the_o hate_v of_o they_o that_o be_v not_o absolute_o but_o comparative_o in_o comparison_n of_o he_o and_o the_o gospel_n with_o the_o duty_n which_o belong_v unto_o our_o profession_n luke_n 14.26_o if_o any_o man_n come_v to_o i_o and_o hate_v not_o father_n and_o mother_n and_o wife_n and_o child_n and_o brethren_n and_o sister_n yea_o and_o his_o own_o life_n also_o he_o can_v be_v my_o disciple_n some_o i_o fear_v if_o they_o do_v but_o consider_v it_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o say_v this_o be_v a_o hard_a say_n who_o can_v bear_v it_o and_o other_o cry_v out_o with_o the_o disciple_n in_o another_o case_n lord_n who_o then_o can_v be_v save_v but_o it_o be_v the_o word_n whereby_o we_o must_v be_v judge_v nor_o can_v we_o be_v the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n on_o any_o other_o term_n but_o here_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n lie_v the_o wound_n and_o weakness_n of_o
as_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o and_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n it_o be_v true_a the_o light_n of_o it_o can_v full_o comprehend_v the_o nature_n of_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o its_o affection_n for_o they_o be_v infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a such_o as_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n and_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n and_o some_o of_o they_o as_o future_a glory_n be_v not_o yet_o clear_o reveal_v but_o it_o discern_v they_o all_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v in_o themselves_o and_o not_o in_o any_o corrupt_a representation_n or_o imagination_n of_o they_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n they_o be_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v spiritual_o discern_v 1_o cor._n 2.14_o which_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o natural_a man_n can_v receive_v they_o namely_o because_o he_o have_v not_o ability_n spiritual_o to_o discern_v they_o and_o this_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o mind_n the_o principal_a quality_n and_o effect_n of_o faith_n namely_o the_o communication_n unto_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o act_n in_o we_o of_o a_o spiritual_a save_v light_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v and_o discern_v spiritual_a thing_n as_o they_o be_v in_o their_o own_o nature_n kind_a and_o proper_a use_n see_v ephes._n 1.17_o 18_o 19_o that_o the_o god_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n may_v give_v unto_o you_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o the_o eye_n of_o your_o understanding_n be_v enlighten_v that_o you_o know_v what_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o his_o call_v and_o what_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o inheritance_n in_o the_o saint_n and_o what_o be_v the_o exceed_a greatness_n of_o his_o power_n to_o us-ward_n who_o believe_v according_a to_o the_o work_n of_o his_o mighty_a power_n 2_o cor._n 4.6_o god_n shine_v in_o our_o heart_n to_o give_v the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o glory_n in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ._n the_o end_n god_n design_n be_v to_o draw_v our_o heart_n and_o affection_n unto_o himself_o and_o unto_o this_o end_n he_o give_v unto_o we_o a_o glorious_a internal_a light_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o discern_v the_o true_a nature_n of_o the_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v to_o cleave_v unto_o with_o love_n and_o delight_n without_o this_o we_o have_v nothing_o but_o false_a image_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o mind_n not_o always_o as_o unto_o the_o truth_n or_o doctrine_n concern_v they_o but_o as_o unto_o their_o reality_n power_n and_o efficacy_n this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o principal_a effect_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o mind_n namely_o to_o discover_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o represent_v unto_o the_o affection_n thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a in_o their_o nature_n beauty_n and_o genuine_a excellency_n this_o attract_v they_o if_o they_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v and_o cause_v they_o to_o cleave_v with_o delight_n unto_o what_o be_v so_o propose_v unto_o they_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n who_o thereon_o discover_v the_o excellency_n of_o his_o person_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o mediation_n will_v both_o love_v he_o and_o on_o his_o believe_a rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n so_o be_v it_o in_o all_o other_o instance_n the_o more_o steady_a be_v our_o view_n by_o faith_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n the_o more_o firm_a and_o constant_a will_v our_o affection_n be_v in_o cleave_v unto_o they_o and_o wherever_o the_o mind_n be_v darken_v about_o they_o by_o temptation_n or_o seduction_n from_o the_o truth_n there_o the_o affection_n will_v be_v quick_o weaken_v and_o impair_v wherefore_o three_o affection_n thus_o lead_v unto_o and_o fix_v on_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n under_o the_o light_n and_o conduct_v of_o faith_n be_v more_o and_o more_o renew_v or_o make_v in_o themselves_o more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a they_o be_v in_o their_o cleave_v unto_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o continual_o change_v and_o assimulate_v unto_o the_o thing_n themselves_o become_v more_o and_o more_o to_o be_v what_o they_o be_v namely_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a this_o transformation_n be_v wrought_v by_o faith_n and_o be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o excellent_a faculty_n and_o operation_n see_v 2_o cor._n 3.18_o and_o the_o mean_n whereby_o it_o work_v herein_o be_v our_o affection_n in_o they_o as_o we_o be_v carnal_a we_o be_v conform_v unto_o this_o world_n and_o by_o they_o as_o sanctify_v be_v we_o transform_v in_o the_o renew_n of_o our_o mind_n rom._n 12.2_o and_o this_o transformation_n be_v the_o introduction_n of_o a_o new_a form_n or_o nature_n into_o our_o soul_n diverse_a from_o that_o wherewith_o we_o be_v before_o endue_v so_o be_v it_o describe_v isaiah_n 11.6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o a_o spiritual_a nature_n they_o be_v change_v into_o and_o it_o be_v twofold_a first_o original_a and_o radical_a as_o to_o the_o substance_n or_o essence_n of_o it_o which_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o first_o act_n of_o divine_a grace_n upon_o our_o soul_n when_o we_o be_v make_v new_a creature_n herein_o our_o affection_n be_v passive_a they_o do_v not_o transform_v we_o but_o be_v transform_v second_o gradual_a as_o unto_o its_o increase_n and_o therein_o faith_n work_v in_o and_o by_o the_o affection_n whenever_o the_o affection_n do_v cleave_v intense_o unto_o any_o object_n they_o receive_v a_o impression_n from_o it_o as_o the_o wax_n do_v from_o the_o seal_n when_o apply_v unto_o it_o which_o change_v they_o into_o its_o own_o likeness_n so_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v of_o sensual_a unclean_a person_n they_o have_v eye_n full_a of_o adultery_n 2_o pet._n 2.14_o their_o affection_n be_v so_o whole_o possess_v and_o fill_v with_o their_o lustful_a object_n as_o that_o they_o have_v bring_v forth_o their_o own_o likeness_n upon_o their_o imagination_n that_o blot_v out_o all_o other_o and_o leave_v they_o no_o inclination_n but_o what_o they_o stir_v up_o in_o they_o when_o man_n be_v fill_v with_o the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n which_o carry_v along_o with_o it_o all_o their_o other_o affection_n their_o hope_n fear_n and_o desire_n unto_o a_o constant_a exercise_n about_o the_o same_o object_n they_o become_v earthly-minded_n their_o mind_n be_v so_o change_v into_o the_o image_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o by_o the_o effectual_a work_n of_o the_o corrupt_a principle_n of_o sin_n self-love_n and_o lust_n as_o if_o they_o be_v make_v up_o of_o the_o earth_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o savour_n of_o any_o thing_n else_o in_o like_a manner_n when_o by_o faith_n man_n come_v to_o embrace_v heavenly_a thing_n through_o the_o effectual_a work_v of_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o grace_n in_o they_o they_o be_v every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o make_v heavenly_a the_o inward_a man_n be_v renew_v day_n by_o day_n love_n be_v more_o sincere_a and_o ardent_a delight_n be_v more_o ravish_a and_o sensible_a desire_n be_v more_o enlarge_v and_o intense_a and_o by_o all_o a_o taste_n and_o relish_v of_o heavenly_a thing_n be_v heighten_v into_o refresh_a experience_n see_v rom._n 5.2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o this_o be_v the_o way_n whereby_o one_o grace_n be_v add_v unto_o another_o 2_o pet._n 1.5_o 6._o in_o degree_n great_a be_v the_o assimulation_n between_o renew_a affection_n and_o their_o spiritual_a object_n that_o by_o this_o mean_n may_v be_v attain_v the_o mind_n hereby_o become_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n wherein_o he_o dwell_v by_o the_o spirit_n christ_n also_o dwell_v in_o believer_n and_o they_o in_o he_o god_n be_v love_n and_o he_o that_o dwell_v in_o love_n dwell_v in_o god_n and_o god_n in_o he_o 1_o john_n 4.16_o love_n in_o its_o proper_a exercise_n give_v a_o mutual_a inhabitation_n unto_o god_n and_o believer_n in_o brief_a he_o who_o affection_n be_v set_v upon_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n will_v be_v heavenly-minded_n and_o in_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o they_o will_v that_o heavenly_a mindedness_n be_v increase_v the_o transformation_n and_o assimulation_n that_o be_v wrought_v be_v not_o in_o the_o object_n or_o spiritual_a thing_n themselves_o they_o be_v not_o change_v neither_o in_o themselves_o nor_o in_o the_o representation_n make_v of_o they_o unto_o our_o mind_n but_o the_o change_n be_v in_o our_o affection_n which_o be_v make_v like_o unto_o they_o two_o case_n derive_v from_o this_o principle_n and_o consideration_n may_v be_v here_o speak_v unto_o and_o shall_v be_v so_o the_o first_o in_o this_o and_o the_o other_o in_o the_o follow_a chapter_n the_o one_o be_v concern_v the_o slowness_n and_o imperceptibility_n of_o the_o growth_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o their_o assimulation_n unto_o
capable_a of_o yet_o will_v he_o not_o dare_v to_o pretend_v that_o all_o his_o affection_n be_v fill_v and_o satisfy_v with_o they_o that_o they_o afford_v he_o perfect_a rest_n and_o peace_n shall_v he_o do_v so_o the_o work_n of_o his_o mind_n every_o day_n will_v convince_v he_o of_o his_o falsehood_n and_o his_o folly_n but_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n derive_v from_o and_o lead_v unto_o that_o which_o be_v infinite_a which_o be_v therefore_o able_a to_o fill_v all_o our_o affection_n and_o to_o give_v they_o full_a satisfaction_n with_o rest_n and_o peace_n they_o all_o lead_v we_o to_o the_o fountain_n of_o live_a water_n the_o eternal_a spring_n of_o goodness_n and_o blessedness_n i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o our_o affection_n do_v attain_v unto_o this_o fâ—ll_a rest_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o this_o life_n but_o what_o they_o come_v short_a of_o therein_o arise_v not_o from_o any_o defect_n in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o to_o give_v this_o rest_n and_o satisfaction_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o whole_a world_n but_o from_o the_o weakness_n of_o our_o affection_n themselves_z which_o be_v in_o part_n only_o renew_v and_o can_v take_v in_o the_o full_a measure_n of_o divine_a goodness_n which_o in_o another_o world_n they_o will_v receive_v but_o while_o we_o be_v here_o the_o more_o we_o receive_v they_o into_o our_o mind_n and_o soul_n the_o more_o firm_o we_o adhere_v unto_o they_o the_o near_a approach_n we_o make_v unto_o our_o rest_n and_o centre_n second_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v as_o they_o be_v fill_v with_o divine_a wisdom_n i_o speak_v not_o of_o himself_o who_o essential_a wisdom_n be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o amiable_a excellency_n of_o his_o holy_a nature_n but_o of_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o will_n and_o grace_n by_o jesus_n christ._n all_o spiritual_a truth_n all_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n whereby_o god_n reveal_v and_o communicate_v himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o all_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o our_o approach_n unto_o he_o in_o faith_n and_o obedience_n through_o christ_n jesus_n i_o now_o intend_v all_o these_o be_v fill_v with_o divine_a wisdom_n see_v 1_o cor._n 2.7_o eph._n 3.10_o chap._n 1.8_o 9_o now_o wisdom_n in_o itself_o and_o in_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o be_v attractive_a of_o rational_a affection_n most_o man_n be_v brutish_a in_o they_o and_o their_o act_n for_o the_o most_o part_n pour_v they_o out_o on_o thing_n fleshly_a sensual_a and_o carnal_a but_o where_o they_o be_v at_o all_o reduce_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o reason_n nothing_o be_v so_o attractive_a of_o they_o so_o suit_v unto_o they_o which_o they_o delight_v in_o as_o that_o which_o have_v at_o least_o a_o appearance_n of_o wisdom_n a_o wise_a and_o good_a man_n do_v command_v the_o affection_n of_o other_o unless_o it_o be_v their_o interest_n to_o hate_v and_o oppose_v he_o as_o common_o it_o be_v and_o where_o there_o be_v true_a wisdom_n in_o the_o conduct_n of_o civil_a affair_n sober_a man_n can_v but_o approve_v of_o it_o like_v it_o delight_n in_o it_o &_o man_n of_o understanding_n do_v bewail_v the_o loss_n of_o it_o since_o craft_n falsehood_n treachery_n and_o all_o sort_n of_o villainy_n have_v drive_v it_o out_o of_o the_o world_n so_o be_v divine_a wisdom_n attractive_a of_o divine_a gracious_a affection_n the_o psalmist_n declare_v his_o admiration_n of_o and_o delight_n in_o the_o work_v of_o god_n because_o he_o have_v make_v they_o all_o in_o wisdom_n psal._n 104.24_o those_o character_n of_o divine_a wisdom_n which_o be_v upon_o they_o which_o they_o be_v fill_v with_o draw_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n into_o a_o delightful_a contemplation_n of_o they_o but_o all_o the_o treasure_n all_o the_o glory_n of_o this_o wisdom_n be_v lay_v up_o &_o lay_v forth_o in_o the_o great_a spiritual_a thing_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o dispensation_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o goodness_n unto_o we_o by_o he_o the_o consideration_n hereof_o fill_v the_o soul_n of_o believer_n with_o holy_a admiration_n and_o delight_n and_o thereon_o they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o all_o their_o affection_n when_o we_o see_v there_o be_v light_a in_o they_o and_o all_o other_o thing_n be_v in_o darkness_n that_o wisdom_n be_v in_o they_o in_o they_o alone_o and_o all_o other_o thing_n be_v fill_v with_o vanity_n and_o folly_n then_o be_v our_o soul_n true_o affect_v with_o they_o and_o do_v rejoice_v in_o they_o with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n unto_o the_o most_o this_o wisdom_n of_o god_n be_v foolishness_n it_o be_v so_o of_o old_a as_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 1_o cor._n 1._o and_o so_o it_o continue_v yet_o to_o be_v and_o therefore_o be_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n despise_v by_o they_o they_o can_v see_v neither_o form_n nor_o comeliness_n in_o it_o for_o which_o it_o shall_v be_v desire_v nor_o will_v ever_o any_o man_n have_v sincere_a spiritual_a affection_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n who_o have_v not_o a_o spiritual_a view_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o they_o this_o be_v that_o which_o attract_v our_o soul_n by_o holy_a admiration_n unto_o unspeakable_a delight_n and_o the_o reason_n why_o man_n do_v so_o general_o decline_v from_o any_o love_n unto_o the_o gospel_n and_o lose_v all_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o it_o be_v because_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o discern_v that_o infinite_a wisdom_n which_o be_v the_o spring_n life_n and_o soul_n of_o it_o when_o our_o mind_n be_v raise_v unto_o the_o admiration_n of_o this_o wisdom_n in_o divine_a revelation_n then_o will_v our_o affection_n cleave_v unto_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v reveal_v three_o the_o act_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o their_o adherence_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v perfective_a of_o our_o present_a state_n and_o condition_n that_o which_o of_o all_o other_o thing_n do_v most_o debase_v the_o nature_n of_o man_n wherein_o it_o make_v the_o near_a approach_n unto_o brutality_n yea_o whereby_o it_o become_v in_o some_o respect_n more_o vile_a than_o the_o nature_n of_o beast_n be_v the_o give_v up_o of_o the_o affection_n unto_o thing_n sensual_a unclean_a base_a and_o unworthy_a of_o its_o more_o noble_a principle_n hence_o be_v man_n say_v to_o debase_v themselves_o unto_o hell_n isai._n 57.9_o and_o their_o affection_n do_v become_v vile_a so_o as_o that_o their_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o they_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o revenge_a justice_n punish_v man_n for_o the_o worst_a of_o sin_n rom._n 1.26_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o vile_a nothing_o more_o contemptible_a nothing_o more_o like_a to_o beast_n in_o baseness_n and_o to_o hell_n in_o punishment_n then_o be_v the_o condition_n of_o they_o who_o have_v enslave_v their_o nature_n unto_o brutish_a sensual_a affection_n i_o say_v vile_a affection_n fix_v on_o and_o cleave_v unto_o sensual_a object_n do_v debase_v the_o nature_n of_o man_n and_o do_v both_o corrupt_v and_o enslave_v all_o the_o more_o noble_a faculty_n of_o it_o the_o very_a conscience_n and_o mind_n of_o man_n be_v defile_v by_o they_o if_o you_o see_v a_o man_n who_o affection_n be_v set_v inordinate_o on_o any_o thing_n here_o below_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o discern_v how_o he_o go_v off_o from_o his_o native_a worth_n and_o debase_v himself_o therein_o but_o the_o fix_v of_o spiritual_a affection_n on_o spiritual_a object_n be_v perfective_a of_o our_o present_a state_n and_o condition_n not_o that_o we_o can_v attain_v perfection_n by_o it_o but_o that_o therein_o our_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o progress_n towards_o perfection_n this_o may_v be_v grant_v look_v how_o much_o vile_a affection_n fix_v on_o and_o furious_o pursue_v thing_n carnal_a and_o sensual_a do_v debase_v our_o nature_n beneath_o its_o rational_a constitution_n and_o make_v it_o degenerate_a into_o bestiality_n so_o much_o spiritual_a affection_n fix_v on_o and_o cleave_v unto_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a do_v exalt_v our_o nature_n above_o its_o mere_a natural_a capacity_n make_v a_o approach_n unto_o the_o state_n of_o angel_n and_o of_o just_a man_n make_v perfect_a and_o as_o brutish_a affection_n when_o they_o have_v the_o reins_o as_o they_o say_v on_o their_o neck_n and_o be_v pursue_v with_o delight_n and_o greediness_n do_v darken_v the_o mind_n and_o disturb_v all_o the_o rational_a power_n of_o the_o soul_n for_o whordom_n and_o wine_n and_o new-wine_n do_v take_v away_o the_o heart_n as_o the_o prophet_n speak_v and_o wickedness_n alter_v the_o understanding_n so_o holy_a affection_n fix_v on_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v elevate_v raise_v and_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n with_o true_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n for_o the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v wisdom_n and_o to_o depart_v from_o iniquity_n that_o be_v understanding_n and_o again_o as_o the_o
carnal_o mind_v be_v death_n it_o be_v not_o meet_v it_o shall_v be_v any_o thing_n else_o that_o which_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n be_v under_o the_o curse_n of_o god_n in_o opposition_n hereunto_o it_o be_v affirm_v that_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v or_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n and_o these_o be_v the_o thing_n which_o we_o be_v particular_o to_o inquire_v into_o namely_o what_o be_v this_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n and_o then_o how_o it_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n 1._o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o context_n be_v evident_o use_v in_o a_o double_a sense_n as_o be_v usual_a where_o both_o the_o holy_a spirit_n himself_o and_o his_o work_n on_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v relate_v unto_o 1._o the_o person_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n himself_o or_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v intend_v by_o it_o v_o 9_o if_o so_o be_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n dwell_v in_o you_o and_o so_o also_o v._n 11._o the_o spirit_n of_o he_o that_o raise_v up_o jesus_n from_o the_o dead_a he_o be_v speak_v of_o as_o the_o principal_a efficient_a cause_n of_o all_o the_o spiritual_a mercy_n and_o benefit_n here_o and_o afterward_o insist_v on_o 2._o it_o be_v use_v for_o the_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n wrought_v in_o all_o that_o be_v regenerate_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o spirit_n be_v spirit_n joh._n 3.6_o it_o be_v most_o probable_a that_o the_o name_n spirit_n be_v here_o use_v in_o the_o latter_a sense_n not_o for_o the_o spirit-himself_a but_o for_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o spirit_n the_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n in_o they_o that_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v in_o its_o nature_n act_n inclination_n and_o operation_n oppose_v unto_o the_o flesh_n v_o 1.4_o 5_o but_o the_o flesh_n here_o intend_v be_v that_o inherent_a corrupt_a principle_n of_o deprave_a nature_n whence_o all_o evil_a action_n do_v proceed_v and_o wherewith_o the_o action_n of_o all_o evil_a man_n be_v vitiate_a the_o opposition_n between_o they_o be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o mention_a and_o declare_v by_o the_o apostle_n gal._n 5.17_o 18_o etc._n etc._n wherefore_o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o place_n be_v the_o holy_a vital_a principle_n of_o new_a obedience_n wrought_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n enable_v they_o to_o live_v unto_o god_n 2._o unto_o this_o spirit_n there_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d ascribe_v which_o as_o we_o have_v intimate_v be_v translate_v with_o great_a variety_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d be_v the_o principal_a power_n and_o act_n of_o the_o mind_n it_o be_v its_o light_n wisdom_n prudence_n knowledge_n understanding_n and_o discretion_n it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o respect_n unto_o speculation_n or_o ratiocination_n mere_o which_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d but_o this_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d be_v its_o power_n as_o it_o be_v practical_a include_v the_o habitual_a frame_n and_o inclination_n of_o the_o affection_n also_o it_o be_v its_o faculty_n to_o conceive_v of_o thing_n with_o a_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o adherence_n unto_o they_o from_o that_o suitableness_n which_o it_o find_v in_o they_o unto_o all_o its_o affection_n hence_o we_o translate_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d sometime_o to_o think_v that_o be_v to_o conceive_v and_o judge_v rom._n 12.3_o sometime_o to_o set_v the_o affection_n col._n 3.2_o to_o have_v such_o a_o apprehension_n of_o thing_n as_o to_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o our_o affection_n sometime_o to_o mind_n to_o mind_n earthly_a thing_n phil._n 3.19_o which_o include_v that_o relish_n and_o savour_n which_o the_o mind_n find_v in_o the_o thing_n it_o be_v fix_v on_o no_o where_o do_v it_o design_v a_o notional_a conception_n of_o thing_n only_o but_o principal_o the_o engagement_n of_o the_o affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n which_o the_o mind_n apprehend_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o word_n here_o use_v express_v the_o actual_a exercise_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o mind_n before_o describe_v wherefore_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o actual_a exercise_n of_o the_o mind_n as_o renew_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o furnish_v with_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o light_n in_o its_o conception_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o the_o set_n of_o its_o affection_n on_o they_o as_o find_v that_o relish_n and_o savour_n in_o they_o wherewith_o it_o be_v please_v and_o satisfy_v and_o something_o we_o must_v yet_o further_o observe_v to_o give_v light_n unto_o this_o description_n of_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n as_o it_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o 1._o it_o be_v not_o speak_v of_o absolute_o as_o unto_o what_o it_o be_v in_o itself_o but_o with_o respect_n unto_o its_o power_n and_o prevalency_n in_o we_o significant_o render_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v that_o be_v to_o have_v the_o mind_n change_v and_o renew_v by_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o light_n so_o as_o to_o be_v continual_o act_v and_o influence_v thereby_o unto_o thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n from_o the_o affection_n cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v when_o man_n mind_v earthly_a thing_n from_o a_o principle_n of_o love_n unto_o they_o arise_v from_o their_o suitableness_n unto_o their_o corrupt_a affection_n their_o thought_n meditation_n and_o desire_n be_v continual_o engage_v about_o they_o wherefore_o 2._o three_o thing_n may_v be_v distinguish_v in_o the_o great_a duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v under_o which_o notion_n it_o be_v here_o recommend_v unto_o we_o 1._o the_o actual_a exercise_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o its_o thought_n meditation_n and_o desire_n about_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a so_o be_v it_o express_v in_o the_o verse_n forego_v they_o that_o be_v after_o the_o flesh_n do_v mind_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o flesh_n they_o think_v on_o they_o their_o contrivance_n be_v about_o they_o and_o their_o desire_n after_o they_o but_o they_o that_o be_v after_o the_o spirit_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n they_o mind_v they_o by_o fix_v their_o thought_n and_o meditation_n upon_o they_o 2._o the_o inclination_n disposition_n and_o frame_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o all_o its_o affection_n whereby_o it_o adhere_v and_o cleave_v unto_o spiritual_a thing_n this_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n reside_v habitual_o in_o the_o affection_n wherefore_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o spirit_n or_o the_o mind_n as_o renew_v and_o act_v by_o a_o spiritual_a principle_n of_o light_n and_o life_n be_v the_o exercise_n of_o its_o thought_n meditation_n and_o desire_n on_o spiritual_a thing_n proceed_v from_o the_o love_n and_o delight_n of_o its_o affection_n in_o they_o and_o engagement_n unto_o they_o 3._o a_o complacency_n of_o mind_n from_o that_o gust_n relish_v and_o savour_n which_o it_o find_v in_o spiritual_a thing_n from_o their_o suitableness_n unto_o its_o constitution_n inclination_n and_o desire_n there_o be_v a_o salt_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n whereby_o they_o be_v condit_v and_o make_v savoury_a unto_o a_o renew_a mind_n though_o to_o other_o they_o be_v as_o the_o white_a of_o a_o egg_n that_o have_v no_o taste_n or_o savour_n in_o it_o in_o this_o gust_n and_o relish_n lie_v the_o sweetness_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o spiritual_a life_n speculative_a notion_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n when_o they_o be_v alone_o be_v dry_a sapless_a and_o barren_a in_o this_o gust_n we_o taste_v by_o experience_n that_o god_n be_v gracious_a and_o that_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n be_v better_a than_o wine_n or_o whatever_o else_o have_v the_o most_o grateful_a relish_n unto_o a_o sensual_a appetite_n this_o be_v the_o proper_a foundation_n of_o the_o joy_n which_o be_v unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n all_o these_o thing_n do_v concur_v in_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n or_o to_o constitute_v any_o person_n spiritual_o mind_v and_o although_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o whole_a duty_n include_v in_o it_o lie_v in_o the_o affection_n and_o their_o immediate_a adherence_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n whence_o the_o thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o the_o mind_n about_o they_o do_v proceed_v yet_o i_o shall_v treat_v of_o the_o distinct_a part_n of_o this_o duty_n in_o the_o order_n lay_v down_o begin_v with_o the_o exercise_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n about_o they_o for_o they_o be_v the_o first_o genuine_a act_n of_o the_o mind_n according_a unto_o the_o prevalency_n of_o affection_n in_o it_o they_o will_v make_v the_o best_a and_o most_o evident_a discovery_n of_o what_o nature_n the_o spring_n be_v from_o whence_o they_o do_v arise_v and_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o speak_v
and_o a_o great_a valuation_n of_o earthly_a thing_n with_o their_o care_n about_o they_o and_o converse_v in_o they_o they_o abate_v and_o decay_v in_o their_o spiritual_a affection_n every_o day_n they_o will_v abide_v in_o their_o profession_n but_o have_v lose_v their_o first_o love_n it_o be_v a_o shame_n and_o folly_n unutterable_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o with_o any_o who_o make_v profession_n of_o that_o religion_n wherein_o there_o be_v so_o many_o incomparable_a excellency_n to_o endear_v and_o engage_v they_o to_o it_o more_o and_o more_o but_o why_o shall_v we_o hide_v what_o experience_n make_v manifest_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o sun_n and_o what_o multitude_n proclaim_v concern_v themselves_o wherefore_o i_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o great_a evidence_n if_o not_o absolute_o of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o grace_n yet_o of_o the_o life_n and_o growth_n of_o it_o when_o man_n as_o they_o grow_v up_o in_o age_n do_v grow_v in_o a_o undervaluation_n of_o present_a thing_n in_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n in_o duty_n of_o charity_n and_o bounty_n and_o decay_v not_o in_o any_o of_o they_o but_o i_o say_v it_o be_v usual_a that_o the_o entrance_n of_o man_n profession_n of_o religion_n and_o conversation_n unto_o god_n be_v attend_v with_o vigorous_a active_a affection_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n of_o they_o who_o real_o and_o sincere_o believe_v it_o be_v say_v that_o on_o their_o believe_v they_o rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n and_o of_o those_o who_o only_o have_v a_o work_n of_o conviction_n on_o they_o improve_v by_o temporary_a faith_n that_o they_o receive_v the_o word_n with_o joy_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n glad_o in_o this_o state_n do_v many_o abide_v and_o thrive_v until_o their_o affection_n be_v whole_o transform_v into_o the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o thing_n above_o but_o with_o many_o of_o all_o sort_n it_o be_v not_o so_o they_o fall_v into_o woeful_a decay_n as_o unto_o their_o affection_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o consequent_o in_o their_o whole_a profession_n and_o conversation_n their_o moisture_n become_v as_o the_o drought_n in_o summer_n they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o the_o life_n and_o act_n of_o they_o in_o themselves_o nor_o any_o comfort_n or_o refreshment_n from_o they_o they_o honour_v not_o the_o gospel_n with_o any_o fruit_n of_o love_n zeal_n or_o delight_n nor_o be_v useful_a any_o way_n unto_o other_o by_o their_o example_n some_o of_o they_o have_v have_v seem_v recovery_n and_o be_v yet_o again_o take_v into_o a_o lifeless_a frame_n warning_n afliction_n sickness_n the_o word_n have_v awaken_v they_o but_o they_o be_v fall_v again_o into_o a_o dead_a sleep_n so_o as_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v tree_n who_o fruit_n wither_v without_o fruit_n twice_o dead_a pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n some_o thing_n must_v be_v speak_v unto_o this_o woeful_a condition_n in_o general_n as_o that_o which_o be_v direct_o opposite_a unto_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a and_o contrary_a unto_o and_o obstructive_a of_o the_o growth_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n in_o a_o assimulation_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n and_o what_o shall_v be_v speak_v may_v be_v apply_v unto_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o these_o decay_n though_o all_o of_o they_o be_v not_o alike_o dangerous_a or_o perilous_a first_o there_o may_v be_v a_o time_n of_o temptation_n wherein_o a_o soul_n may_v apprehend_v in_o itself_o not_o only_o a_o decay_n in_o but_o a_o utter_a loss_n of_o all_o spiritual_a affection_n when_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o as_o believer_n may_v apprehend_v and_o judge_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v forsake_v and_o forget_v they_o when_o he_o have_v not_o do_v so_o isaiah_n 49.14_o 15._o so_o they_o may_v under_o their_o temptation_n apprehend_v that_o they_o have_v forsake_v god_n when_o they_o have_v not_o do_v so_o as_o a_o man_n in_o the_o night_n may_v apprehend_v he_o have_v lose_v his_o way_n and_o be_v in_o great_a distress_n when_o he_o be_v in_o his_o proper_a road._n for_o temptation_n bring_v darkness_n and_o amazement_n and_o lead_v into_o mistake_v and_o a_o false_a judgement_n in_o all_o thing_n they_o find_v not_o it_o may_v be_v grace_n work_v in_o love_n joy_n and_o delight_n as_o former_o nor_o that_o activity_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n in_o holy_a duty_n which_o spiritual_a affection_n give_v unto_o they_o but_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v the_o same_o grace_n work_v in_o godly_a sorrow_n by_o mourn_v humiliation_n and_o self-abasement_n no_o less_o effectual_o nor_o less_o acceptable_o unto_o god_n such_o as_o these_o i_o separate_v from_o the_o present_a consideration_n second_o there_o may_v be_v a_o decay_n in_o affection_n themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o act_n towards_o any_o object_n whatever_o at_o least_o as_o unto_o the_o outward_a symptom_n and_o effect_n of_o they_o and_o on_o this_o ground_n their_o opperation_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n may_v be_v less_o sensible_a so_o man_n in_o their_o young_a day_n may_v be_v more_o ready_a to_o express_v their_o sorrow_n by_o tear_n and_o their_o joy_n by_o sensible_a exaltation_n and_o motion_n of_o their_o spirit_n than_o in_o ripe_a year_n and_o this_o may_v be_v so_o when_o there_o be_v no_o decay_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o affection_n as_o renew_v but_o 1_o when_o it_o be_v so_o it_o be_v a_o burden_n unto_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v they_o can_v but_o mourn_v and_o have_v a_o godly-jealousy_n over_o themselves_o lest_o the_o decay_v they_o find_v shall_v not_o be_v in_o the_o outward_a but_o the_o inward_a not_o in_o the_o natural_a but_o the_o spiritual_a man._n and_o they_o will_v labour_v that_o in_o all_o duty_n and_o at_o all_o time_n it_o may_v be_v with_o they_o as_o in_o day_n of_o old_a although_o they_o can_v attain_v strength_n in_o they_o that_o vigour_n of_o spirit_n that_o life_n joy_n peace_n and_o comfort_n which_o any_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o second_o there_o will_v be_v in_o such_o person_n no_o decay_n in_o holiness_n of_o life_n nor_o as_o unto_o diligence_n in_o all_o religious_a duty_n if_o the_o decay_n be_v real_o of_o grace_n in_o the_o affection_n it_o will_v be_v accompany_v with_o a_o proportionable_a decay_n in_o all_o other_o thing_n wherein_o the_o life_n of_o god_n be_v concern_v but_o if_o it_o be_v only_o as_o unto_o the_o sensible_a act_n of_o natural_a affection_n no_o such_o decay_n will_v ensue_v three_o grace_n will_v in_o this_o case_n more_o vigorous_o act_v itself_o in_o the_o other_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o the_o judgement_n and_o the_o will_n in_o their_o approbation_n of_o and_o firm_a adherence_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o four_o when_o man_n find_v or_o may_v find_v their_o affection_n yet_o quick_a active_a and_o intent_n on_o other_o thing_n as_o the_o lawful_a enjoyment_n and_o comfort_n of_o this_o life_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a for_o they_o to_o relieve_v themselves_o that_o the_o decay_v they_o find_v be_v in_o their_o affection_n as_o natural_a and_o not_o as_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v gracious_a if_o we_o see_v a_o man_n in_o his_o old_a age_n grow_v more_o in_o love_n with_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n and_o less_o in_o love_n with_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o through_o the_o weakness_n of_o nature_n but_o through_o the_o strength_n of_o sin_n on_o these_o and_o it_o may_v be_v some_o other_o the_o like_a occasion_n there_o may_v be_v a_o apprehension_n of_o a_o decay_n in_o spiritual_a affection_n when_o it_o may_v not_o be_v so_o at_o least_o not_o unto_o the_o degree_n that_o be_v apprehend_v but_o when_o it_o be_v so_o real_o as_o it_o be_v evident_o with_o many_o i_o have_v almost_o say_v with_o the_o most_o in_o these_o day_n it_o be_v a_o woeful_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o never_o enough_o to_o be_v lament_v it_o be_v that_o which_o lie_v in_o direct_a contradiction_n unto_o that_o spiritual-mindedness_a which_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n it_o be_v a_o consumption_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o threaten_v it_o with_o death_n every_o day_n it_o belong_v not_o unto_o my_o design_n to_o treat_v of_o it_o in_o particular_a yet_o i_o can_v let_v it_o pass_v without_o some_o remark_n upon_o it_o it_o be_v a_o evil_a almost_o epidemical_a among_o professor_n and_o prevalent_a in_o some_o unto_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v utter_o forsake_v of_o all_o power_n of_o spiritual_a life_n now_o beside_o all_o that_o folly_n and_o sin_n which_o we_o before_o discover_v as_o the_o cause_n of_o the_o want_n of_o the_o growth_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o spirituality_n and_o heavenliness_n which_o in_o this_o case_n of_o their_o decay_n be_v more_o abominable_a there_o be_v a_o multiplication_n of_o evil_n wherewith_o this_o state_n of_o heart_n and_o
which_o a_o well_o dispose_v appetite_n find_v unto_o savoury_a meat_n as_o the_o full_a soul_n loathe_v the_o hony-comb_n so_o a_o mind_n under_o the_o power_n of_o carnal_a affection_n have_v a_o aversation_n unto_o all_o spiritual_a sweetness_n but_o spiritualise_v affection_n desire_v they_o have_v a_o appetite_n unto_o they_o ready_o receive_v they_o on_o all_o occasion_n as_o those_o which_o be_v natural_a unto_o they_o as_o milk_n be_v unto_o newborn_a babe_n 2_o affection_n so_o dispose_v constant_o find_v a_o gust_n a_o pleasant_a taste_n a_o relish_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n they_o do_v in_o they_o taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a 1_o pet._n 2.3_o to_o taste_v of_o god_n goodness_n be_v to_o have_v a_o experience_n of_o a_o savoury_a relish_n and_o sweetness_n in_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o person_n who_o affection_n be_v thus_o renew_v and_o thus_o improve_v do_v taste_v a_o sweet_a savour_n in_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n some_o of_o they_o as_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n be_v sometime_o as_o it_o be_v too_o hard_o for_o they_o and_o overpower_v they_o until_o they_o be_v sick_a of_o love_n and_o do_v rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o of_o they_o however_o condit_v with_o affliction_n or_o mortification_n but_o it_o be_v sweet_a unto_o they_o prov._n 27.7_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v wholesome_a food_n that_o be_v good_a nourishment_n though_o it_o be_v but_o bitter_a herb_n be_v sweet_a to_o he_o that_o be_v hungry_a and_o when_o by_o our_o affection_n we_o have_v raise_v up_o in_o we_o a_o spiritual_a appetite_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n however_o any_o of_o they_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n or_o in_o their_o dispensation_n may_v be_v bitter_a to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n as_o be_v all_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o cross_n they_o be_v all_o sweet_a unto_o we_o and_o we_o can_v taste_v how_o gracious_a the_o lord_n be_v in_o they_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o earthly_a thing_n the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n or_o when_o the_o appetite_n be_v lose_v by_o spiritual_a sickness_n or_o vitiate_v and_o corrupt_v by_o any_o prevalent_a sin_n heavenly_a thing_n be_v unsavoury_a and_o sapless_a or_o as_o job_n speak_v like_o the_o white_a of_o a_o egg_n wherein_o there_o be_v no_o taste_n there_o may_v be_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n a_o taste_n or_o please_a relish_v give_v unto_o the_o fancy_n there_o may_v be_v so_o unto_o the_o notional_a understanding_n when_o the_o affection_n find_v no_o complacency_n in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o but_o unto_o they_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a unto_o the_o degree_n intend_v they_o be_v all_o sweet_a savoury_a pleasant_a the_o affection_n taste_v they_o immediate_o as_o the_o palate_n do_v meat_n 3_o they_o be_v a_o just_a repository_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o therein_o the_o treasury_n of_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n who_o formal_a direct_a residence_n be_v in_o the_o understanding_n and_o the_o will_n as_o faith_n itself_o and_o therein_o be_v all_o other_o grace_n radical_o comprise_v they_o grow_v from_o the_o root_n howbeit_o the_o most_o of_o they_o have_v their_o principal_a residence_n in_o the_o affection_n in_o they_o be_v they_o preserve_v secure_a and_o ready_a for_o exercise_n on_o all_o occasion_n and_o when_o they_o be_v due_o spiritual_a there_o be_v nothing_o that_o tend_v to_o their_o growth_n or_o improvement_n to_o their_o cherish_n or_o quicken_a which_o they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o continual_o and_o which_o god_n have_v make_v provision_n for_o in_o his_o word_n but_o they_o reaedy_o receive_v it_o lay_v it_o up_o keep_v and_o preserve_v it_o hereby_o they_o come_v to_o be_v fill_v with_o grace_n with_o all_o grace_n for_o there_o be_v room_n in_o they_o for_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o inhabit_v and_o do_v ready_o comply_v with_o the_o light_n and_o direction_n of_o faith_n unto_o their_o exercise_n when_o faith_n discern_v and_o determine_v that_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v or_o suffer_v in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n the_o affection_n thus_o dispose_v do_v not_o shut_v up_o or_o stifle_v the_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o they_o but_o chcareful_o offer_v they_o unto_o their_o proper_a exercise_n there_o be_v some_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o our_o affection_n conform_v unto_o heavenly_a thing_n will_v attain_v unto_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v by_o be_v fix_v on_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a they_o be_v more_o and_o more_o conform_v unto_o they_o make_v like_o they_o and_o become_v more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a themselves_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o with_o they_o who_o affection_n have_v only_o a_o occasional_a change_n wrought_v upon_o they_o by_o the_o mean_v before_o describe_v but_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a such_o person_n do_v design_n to_o debate_v spiritual_a thing_n to_o bring_v down_o heavenly_a thing_n into_o a_o conformity_n with_o their_o affection_n which_o however_o change_v be_v not_o spiritual_a but_o carnal_a to_o evince_v this_o we_o may_v observe_v 1_o these_o affection_n be_v under_o the_o light_n and_o conduct_v of_o such_o notion_n in_o the_o mind_n and_o understanding_n as_o do_v not_o give_v a_o clear_a distinct_a representation_n of_o they_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n unto_o they_o for_o where_o they_o be_v not_o themselves_o spiritual_o renew_v there_o the_o mind_n itself_o be_v carnal_a and_o unrenewed_a and_o such_o a_o mind_n discern_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n nor_o can_v do_v so_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v they_o can_v be_v discern_v aright_o in_o their_o own_o beauty_n and_o glory_n but_o in_o and_o by_o a_o spiritual_a save_a light_n which_o the_o mind_n be_v devoid_a of_o and_o where_o they_o be_v not_o thus_o represent_v the_o affection_n can_v receive_v or_o cleave_v unto_o they_o as_o they_o ought_v nor_o will_v ever_o be_v conform_v unto_o they_o 2_o those_o notion_n in_o such_o person_n be_v ofttimes_o various_o influence_v and_o corrupt_v by_o fancy_n and_o imagination_n they_o be_v mere_o puff_v up_o in_o their_o fleshly_a mind_n that_o be_v they_o be_v fill_v with_o vain_a foolish_a proud_a imagination_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v col._n 2.18_o 19_o and_o the_o work_n of_o fancy_n in_o a_o fleshly_a mind_n be_v to_o raise_v up_o such_o image_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o may_v render_v they_o suitable_a unto_o natural_a unrenewed_a affection_n 3_o this_o in_o the_o progress_n of_o it_o produce_v superstition_n false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n for_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o a_o attempt_v to_o represent_v spiritual_a thing_n in_o a_o way_n suit_v unto_o carnal_a unrenewed_a affection_n hence_o man_n suppose_v themselves_o to_o be_v excite_v by_o they_o unto_o love_n joy_n fear_v delight_n in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o when_o they_o all_o respect_n that_o false_a representation_n of_o they_o whereby_o they_o be_v suit_v unto_o they_o as_o carnal_a these_o have_v be_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n in_o the_o christian_a world_n first_o the_o mind_n and_o affection_n have_v be_v change_v and_o tincture_v with_o devotion_n by_o some_o of_o the_o mean_n we_o have_v before_o insist_v on_o herein_o they_o will_v one_o way_n or_o other_o be_v exercise_v about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o receive_v impression_n from_o any_o thing_n that_o superstition_n can_v impose_v upon_o they_o second_o they_o be_v by_o error_n and_o false_a information_n set_v at_o liberty_n from_o the_o only_a rule_n of_o their_o act_n and_o exercise_n that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n man_n satisfy_v themselves_o that_o so_o their_o affection_n be_v engage_v about_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a it_o be_v no_o matter_n at_o all_o whether_o the_o way_n of_o their_o exercise_n be_v direct_v by_o the_o scripture_n or_o no._n have_v thus_o lose_v their_o guide_n and_o their_o way_n every_o igâ—u_n fatuus_fw-la every_o wander_a meteor_n allure_v they_o to_o follow_v its_o conduct_n into_o foolish_a superstition_n nothing_o almost_o be_v so_o ridiculous_a nothing_o so_o horrid_a and_o difficult_a that_o they_o will_v not_o embrace_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a three_o the_o carnal_a mind_n of_o man_n have_v no_o proper_a distinct_a apprehension_n and_o notion_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n do_v endeavour_n to_o present_v they_o under_o such_o â—otions_n and_o image_n as_o may_v suit_v they_o unto_o their_o carnal_a unrenewed_a affection_n for_o it_o be_v implant_v a_o most_o indelible_o upon_o they_o that_o the_o end_n of_o all_o knowledge_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v to_o propose_v they_o unto_o the_o embrace_n of_o
and_o will_v not_o be_v thorough_o cure_v in_o any_o but_o by_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o this_o part_n of_o spiritual-mindedness_a there_o be_v other_o duty_n require_v also_o unto_o the_o same_o end_n namely_o of_o the_o mortification_n of_o our_o desire_n and_o affection_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n whereof_o i_o have_v treat_v elsewhere_o but_o without_o this_o or_o a_o fix_a contemplation_n on_o the_o desirableness_n beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n it_o will_v not_o be_v attain_v further_o to_o evince_v the_o truth_n hereof_o we_o may_v observe_v these_o two_o thing_n first_o if_o by_o any_o mean_v a_o man_n do_v seem_v to_o have_v take_v off_o his_o heart_n from_o the_o love_n of_o present_a thing_n and_o be_v not_o at_o the_o same_o time_n take_v up_o with_o the_o love_n of_o thing_n that_o be_v heavenly_a his_o seem_a mortification_n be_v of_o no_o advantage_n unto_o he_o so_o person_n frequent_o through_o discontent_n disappointment_n or_o dissatisfaction_n with_o relation_n or_o mere_a natural_a weariness_n have_v leave_v the_o world_n the_o affair_n and_o care_n of_o it_o as_o unto_o their_o wont_a conversation_n in_o it_o and_o have_v betake_v themselves_o to_o monastery_n convent_v or_o other_o retirement_n suit_v their_o principle_n without_o any_o advantage_n to_o their_o soul_n second_o god_n be_v no_o such_o severe_a lord_n and_o master_n as_o to_o require_v we_o to_o take_v off_o our_o affection_n from_o and_o mortify_v they_o unto_o those_o thing_n which_o the_o law_n of_o our_o nature_n make_v dear_a unto_o we_o as_o wife_n child_n house_n land_n and_o possession_n and_o not_o propose_v unto_o we_o somewhat_o that_o be_v incomparable_o more_o excellent_a to_o fix_v they_o upon_o so_o he_o invite_v the_o elect_a of_o the_o gentile_n unto_o christ_n psal._n 45.10_o harken_v o_o daughter_n and_o consider_v and_o incline_v thy_o ear_n forget_v also_o thy_o own_o people_n and_o thy_o father_n house_n that_o be_v come_v into_o the_o faith_n of_o abraham_n who_o forsake_v his_o country_n and_o his_o father_n house_n to_o follow_v god_n whither_o ever_o he_o please_v but_o he_o propose_v this_o for_o their_o encouragement_n ver_fw-la 11._o so_o shall_v the_o king_n great_o desire_v thy_o beauty_n for_o he_o be_v thy_o lord_n and_o worship_n thou_o he_o the_o love_n of_o the_o great_a king_n be_v a_o abundant_a satisfactory_a recompense_n for_o part_v with_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n so_o when_o abraham_n servant_n be_v send_v to_o take_v rebecka_n for_o a_o wife_n unto_o isaac_n he_o require_v that_o she_o shall_v immediate_o leave_v father_n and_o mother_n brother_n and_o all_o enjoyment_n and_o go_v along_o with_o he_o but_o withal_o that_o she_o may_v know_v herself_o to_o be_v no_o loser_n thereby_o he_o not_o only_o assure_v she_o of_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o master_n but_o also_o at_o present_a he_o give_v her_o jewel_n of_o silver_n and_o jewel_n of_o gold_n and_o raiment_n gen._n 24.53_o and_o when_o our_o saviour_n require_v that_o we_o shall_v part_v with_o all_o for_o his_o sake_n and_o the_o gospel_n he_o promise_v a_o hundred_o fold_v in_o lieu_n of_o they_o even_o in_o this_o life_n namely_o in_o a_o interest_n in_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a wherefore_o without_o a_o assiduous_a meditation_n on_o heavenly_a thing_n as_o a_o better_a more_o noble_a and_o suitable_a object_n for_o our_o affection_n to_o be_v fix_v on_o we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n from_o a_o inordinate_a love_n of_o the_o thing_n here_o below_o it_o be_v sad_a to_o see_v some_o professor_n who_o will_v keep_v up_o spiritual_a duty_n in_o church_n and_o in_o their_o family_n who_o will_v speak_v and_o discourse_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o keep_v themselves_o from_o the_o open_a excess_n of_o the_o world_n yet_o when_o they_o come_v to_o be_v try_v by_o such_o duty_n as_o entrench_v on_o their_o love_n and_o adherence_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n quick_o manifest_a how_o remote_a they_o be_v from_o be_v spiritually-minded_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n be_v they_o to_o be_v try_v as_o our_o saviour_n try_v the_o young_a man_n who_o make_v such_o a_o profession_n of_o his_o conscientious_a and_o religious_a conversation_n go_v sell_v what_o thou_o have_v give_v to_o the_o poor_a and_o follow_v i_o something_o may_v be_v plead_v in_o excuse_n for_o their_o tergiversation_n but_o alas_o they_o will_v decline_v their_o duty_n when_o they_o be_v not_o touch_v unto_o the_o hundred_o part_n of_o their_o enjoyment_n i_o bless_v god_n i_o speak_v not_o thus_o of_o many_o of_o my_o own_o knowledge_n and_o may_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n unto_o the_o most_o unto_o who_o i_o usual_o speak_v in_o this_o manner_n but_o belove_a we_o be_v persuade_v better_a thing_n of_o you_o and_o thing_n that_o accompany_v salvation_n though_o we_o thus_o speak_v heb._n 6.9_o yea_o the_o same_o testimony_n may_v be_v give_v of_o many_o in_o this_o city_n which_o the_o same_o apostle_n give_v unto_o the_o church_n of_o macedonia_n 2_o cor._n 8.1_o 2_o 3._o understand_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n bestow_v on_o the_o church_n of_o macedonia_n how_o that_o in_o a_o great_a trial_n of_o affliction_n the_o abundance_n of_o their_o joy_n and_o their_o poverty_n abound_v unto_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n for_o to_o their_o power_n and_o beyond_o their_o power_n they_o be_v willing_a of_o themselves_o there_o have_v be_v nothing_o do_v among_o we_o that_o may_v or_o can_v be_v boast_v of_o yet_o consider_v all_o circumstance_n it_o may_v be_v there_o have_v not_o be_v more_o instance_n of_o true_a evangelical_n charity_n in_o any_o age_n or_o place_n for_o these_o many_o year_n for_o they_o who_o have_v be_v but_o useful_a and_o helpful_a herein_o the_o lord_n remember_v they_o for_o good_a and_o spare_v they_o according_a to_o the_o multitude_n of_o his_o mercy_n it_o be_v true_a they_o have_v not_o many_o of_o they_o found_v college_n build_v hospital_n or_o raise_v work_n of_o state_n and_o magnificence_n for_o very_o many_o of_o they_o be_v such_o as_o who_o deep_a poverty_n comparative_o have_v abound_v unto_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n the_o bask_n and_o belly_n of_o multitude_n of_o poor_a and_o needy_a servant_n of_o christ_n have_v be_v warm_v and_o refresh_v by_o they_o blessing_n god_n for_o they_o thank_n be_v be_v to_o god_n say_v the_o apostle_n in_o this_o case_n for_o his_o unspeakable_a gift_n 2_o cor._n 9.15_o bless_a be_v god_n who_o have_v not_o leave_v the_o gospel_n without_o this_o glory_n nor_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o without_o this_o evidence_n of_o its_o power_n and_o efficacy_n yea_o god_n have_v exalt_v the_o glory_n of_o persecution_n and_o affliction_n for_o many_o since_o they_o have_v lose_v much_o of_o their_o enjoyment_n by_o they_o and_o have_v all_o endanger_v continual_o have_v abound_v in_o duty_n of_o charity_n beyond_o what_o they_o do_v in_o the_o day_n of_o their_o fullness_n and_o prosperity_n so_o out_o of_o the_o eater_n there_o have_v come_v forth_o meat_n and_o if_o the_o world_n do_v but_o know_v what_o fruit_n in_o a_o way_n of_o charity_n and_o bounty_n unto_o the_o praise_n of_o god_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o gospel_n have_v be_v occasion_v by_o their_o make_v many_o poor_a it_o will_v abate_v of_o their_o satisfaction_n in_o their_o success_n but_o with_o many_o it_o be_v not_o so_o their_o mind_n be_v so_o full_a of_o earthly_a thing_n they_o do_v so_o cleave_v unto_o they_o in_o their_o affection_n that_o no_o sense_n of_o duty_n no_o example_n of_o other_o no_o concernment_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n or_o the_o gospel_n can_v make_v any_o impression_n on_o they_o if_o there_o be_v yet_o in_o they_o so_o much_o life_n and_o light_n of_o grace_n as_o to_o design_n a_o deliverance_n from_o this_o woeful_a condition_n the_o mean_n insist_v on_o must_v be_v make_v use_n of_o especial_o this_o advice_n be_v needful_a unto_o those_o who_o be_v rich_a who_o have_v large_a possession_n or_o abound_v in_o the_o good_n of_o this_o world_n the_o poor_a the_o afflict_a the_o sorrowful_a be_v prompt_v from_o their_o outward_a circumstance_n as_o well_o as_o excite_v by_o inward_a grace_n frequent_o to_o remember_v and_o to_o think_v of_o the_o thing_n above_o wherein_o lie_v their_o only_a reserve_n and_o relief_n against_o the_o trouble_n and_o urgency_n of_o their_o present_a condition_n but_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o these_o thing_n in_o abundance_n be_v accompany_v with_o a_o twofold_n evil_n lie_v direct_o contrary_a unto_o this_o duty_n 1._o a_o desire_n of_o increase_n and_o add_v thereunto_o earthly_a enjoyment_n enlarge_v man_n earthly_a desire_n and_o the_o love_n of_o they_o grow_v with_o their_o income_n a_o moderate_a stock_n of_o water_n sufficient_a for_o our_o use_n may_v be_v keep_v within_o ordinary_a
to_o look_v after_o blessedness_n in_o such_o thing_n as_o alone_o be_v suit_v unto_o its_o rational_a constitution_n for_o if_o it_o do_v they_o will_v place_v their_o happiness_n and_o blessedness_n in_o they_o wherefore_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o artifice_n of_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n to_o blind_v the_o eye_n of_o man_n unto_o their_o eternal_a destruction_n 3._o some_o of_o the_o philosopher_n of_o old_a do_v attain_v a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o blessedness_n of_o man_n in_o another_o world_n do_v consist_v in_o the_o soul_n full_a satisfaction_n in_o the_o goodness_n and_o beauty_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o there_o be_v a_o truth_n in_o this_o notion_n which_o contemplative_a man_n have_v adorn_v with_o excellent_a and_o rational_a discourse_n and_o sundry_a who_o have_v be_v and_o be_v learned_a among_o christian_n have_v great_o improve_v this_o truth_n by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o scripture_n from_o reason_n they_o take_v up_o with_o thought_n of_o the_o goodness_n the_o amiableness_n the_o selfsufficiency_n the_o alsufficient_a satisfactoriness_n of_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n these_o thing_n shine_v in_o themselves_o with_o such_o a_o glorious_a light_n as_o that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o require_v unto_o a_o perception_n of_o they_o but_o that_o man_n do_v not_o wilful_o shut_v their_o eye_n against_o it_o through_o bestial_a sensuality_n and_o love_n of_o sin_n from_o reason_n also_o do_v they_o frame_v their_o conception_n concern_v the_o capacity_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n for_o the_o immediate_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n and_o what_o be_v suit_v therein_o unto_o their_o utmost_a blessedness_n no_o more_o be_v require_v unto_o these_o thing_n but_o a_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n and_o man_n with_o our_o relation_n unto_o he_o and_o dependence_n on_o he_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o scripture_n they_o frame_v these_o thing_n into_o that_o which_o they_o call_v the_o beatifical_a vision_n whereby_o they_o intend_v all_o the_o way_n whereby_o god_n in_o the_o high_a and_o immediate_a instance_n can_v and_o do_v communicate_v of_o himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o the_o utmost_a elevation_n of_o their_o intellectual_a capacity_n to_o receive_v those_o communication_n it_o be_v such_o a_o intellectual_a apprehension_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o perfection_n with_o ineffable_a love_n as_o gives_z the_o soul_n the_o utmost_a rest_n and_o blessedness_n which_o its_o capacity_n can_v extend_v unto_o these_o thing_n be_v so_o and_o they_o have_v be_v by_o many_o both_o pious_o and_o elegant_o illustrate_v howbeit_o they_o be_v above_o the_o capacity_n of_o ordinary_a christian_n they_o know_v not_o how_o to_o manage_v they_o in_o their_o mind_n nor_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o they_o they_o can_v reduce_v they_o unto_o present_a usefulness_n nor_o make_v they_o subservient_fw-fr unto_o the_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o grace_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o scripture_n give_v we_o another_o notion_n of_o heaven_n and_o glory_n not_o contrary_a unto_o this_o not_o inconsistent_a with_o it_o but_o more_o suit_v unto_o the_o faith_n and_o experience_n of_o believer_n and_o which_o alone_o can_v convey_v a_o true_a and_o useful_a sense_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o our_o mind_n this_o therefore_o be_v diligent_o to_o be_v inquire_v into_o and_o firm_o state_v in_o our_o thought_n and_o affection_n 4._o the_o principal_a notion_n which_o the_o scripture_n give_v we_o of_o the_o state_n of_o heavenly_a blessedness_n and_o which_o the_o mean_a believer_n be_v capable_a of_o improve_n in_o daily_a practice_n be_v that_o faith_n shall_v be_v turn_v into_o sight_n and_o grace_n into_o glory_n we_o walk_v now_o by_o faith_n and_o not_o by_o sight_n say_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 5.7_o wherefore_o this_o be_v the_o difference_n between_o our_o present_a and_o our_o future_a state_n that_o sight_n hereafter_o shall_v supply_v the_o room_n of_o faith_n 1_o joh._n 3.2_o and_o if_o sight_n come_v into_o the_o place_n of_o faith_n than_o the_o object_n of_o that_o sight_n must_v be_v the_o same_o with_o the_o present_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n so_o the_o apostle_n inform_v we_o 1_o cor._n 13.9.10_o 12._o for_o we_o know_v in_o part_n and_o when_o we_o prophesy_v in_o part_n but_o when_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a be_v come_v that_o which_o be_v in_o part_n shall_v be_v do_v away_o for_o now_o we_o see_v through_o a_o glass_n dark_o but_o then_o face_n to_o face_n those_o thing_n which_o we_o see_v now_o dark_o as_o in_o a_o glass_n we_o shall_v then_o have_v a_o immediate_a sight_n and_o full_a comprehension_n of_o for_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a must_v come_v and_o do_v away_o that_o which_o be_v in_o part_n what_o then_o be_v the_o principal_a present_a object_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o be_v evangelical_n into_o who_o room_n sight_n must_v succeed_v be_v it_o not_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n grace_n love_n kindness_n and_o power_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o revelation_n of_o the_o eternal_a counsel_n of_o his_o will_n and_o the_o way_n of_o their_o accomplishment_n unto_o the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o the_o church_n in_o and_o by_o he_o with_o the_o glorious_a exaltation_n of_o christ_n himself_o wherefore_o in_o the_o full_a satisfactory_a representation_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o our_o soul_n receive_v by_o sight_n or_o a_o direct_a immediate_a intuition_n of_o they_o do_v the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n principal_o consist_v we_o behold_v they_o now_o dark_o as_o in_o a_o glass_n that_o be_v the_o utmost_a which_o by_o faith_n we_o can_v attain_v unto_o in_o heaven_n they_o shall_v be_v open_o and_o full_o display_v the_o infinite_a incomprehensible_a excellency_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n be_v not_o propose_v in_o scripture_n as_o the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n nor_o shall_v they_o be_v so_o unto_o sight_n in_o heaven_n the_o manifestation_n of_o they_o in_o christ_n be_v the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n here_o and_o shall_v be_v of_o our_o sight_n hereafter_o only_o through_o this_o manifestation_n of_o they_o we_o be_v lead_v even_o by_o faith_n ultimate_o to_o acquiesce_v in_o they_o as_o we_o shall_v in_o heaven_n be_v lead_v by_o love_n perfect_o to_o adhere_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n ineffable_a this_o be_v our_o immediate_a objective_n glory_n in_o heaven_n we_o hope_v for_o no_o other_o and_o this_o if_o god_n will_v i_o shall_v short_o more_o full_o explain_v whoever_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o have_v any_o experience_n of_o the_o life_n power_n and_o sweetness_n of_o these_o heavenly_a thing_n unto_o who_o they_o be_v a_o spring_n of_o grace_n and_o consolation_n they_o be_v able_a to_o meditate_v on_o the_o glory_n of_o they_o in_o their_o full_a enjoyment_n think_v much_o of_o heaven_n as_o that_o which_o will_v give_v you_o a_o perfect_a view_n and_o comprehension_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o those_o other_o thing_n which_o shall_v be_v immediate_o declare_v some_o perhaps_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v that_o if_o this_o be_v heaven_n they_o can_v see_v no_o great_a glory_n in_o it_o no_o such_o beauty_n as_o for_o which_o it_o shall_v be_v desire_v it_o may_v be_v so_o for_o some_o have_v no_o instrument_n to_o take_v a_o view_n of_o invisible_a thing_n but_o carnal_a imagination_n some_o have_v no_o light_n no_o principle_n no_o disposition_n of_o mind_n or_o soul_n whereunto_o these_o thing_n be_v either_o acceptable_a or_o suitable_a some_o will_v go_v no_o further_o in_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o god_n and_o the_o faculty_n and_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n than_o reason_n will_v guide_v they_o which_o may_v be_v of_o use_n but_o we_o look_v for_o no_o other_o heaven_n we_o desire_v none_o but_o what_o we_o be_v lead_v unto_o and_o prepare_v for_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o which_o shall_v perfect_v all_o the_o beginning_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o we_o not_o what_o shall_v be_v quite_o of_o another_o nature_n and_o destructive_a of_o they_o we_o value_v not_o that_o heaven_n which_o be_v equal_o suit_v unto_o the_o desire_v and_o inclination_n of_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n as_o well_o as_o of_o the_o best_a for_o we_o know_v that_o they_o who_o like_v not_o grace_n here_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v like_v that_o which_o be_v glory_n hereafter_o no_o man_n who_o be_v not_o acquaint_v experimental_o in_o some_o measure_n with_o the_o life_n power_n and_o evidence_n of_o faith_n here_o have_v any_o other_o heaven_n in_o his_o aim_n but_o what_o be_v erect_v in_o his_o own_o imagination_n the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n which_o the_o gospel_n prepare_v we_o for_o which_o faith_n lead_v and_o conduct_n we_o unto_o
which_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n long_o after_o as_o that_o which_o will_v give_v full_a rest_n satisfaction_n and_o complacency_n be_v the_o full_a open_a perfect_a manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o wisdom_n goodness_n and_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n in_o his_o person_n and_o mediation_n with_o the_o revelation_n of_o all_o his_o counsel_n concern_v they_o and_o the_o communication_n of_o their_o effect_n unto_o we_o he_o that_o like_v it_o not_o unto_o who_o it_o be_v not_o desirable_a may_v betake_v himself_o unto_o mahomet_n paradise_n or_o the_o philosopher_n speculation_n in_o the_o gospel_n heaven_n he_o have_v no_o interest_n these_o be_v the_o thing_n which_o we_o see_v now_o dark_o as_o in_o a_o glass_n by_o faith_n in_o the_o view_n of_o they_o be_v our_o soul_n gradual_o change_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o god_n and_o the_o comprehension_n of_o they_o be_v that_o which_o shall_v give_v we_o our_o utmost_a conformity_n and_o likeness_n unto_o he_o whereof_o our_o nature_n be_v capable_a in_o a_o sense_n and_o experience_n of_o their_o reality_n and_o goodness_n give_v we_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n do_v all_o our_o spiritual_a consolation_n and_o joy_n consist_v the_o effect_n produce_v by_o they_o in_o our_o soul_n be_v the_o first_o fruit_n of_o glory_n our_o light_n sense_n experience_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o these_o thing_n however_o weak_a and_o frequent_o interrupt_v our_o apprehension_n of_o they_o however_o dark_a and_o obscure_a be_v the_o only_a mean_n whereby_o we_o be_v make_v meet_v for_o the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n to_o have_v the_o eternal_a glory_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o his_o wisdom_n and_o love_n while_o we_o be_v ourselves_o under_o the_o full_a participation_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o they_o immediate_o direct_o reveal_v propose_v make_v know_v unto_o we_o in_o a_o divine_a and_o glorious_a light_n our_o soul_n be_v furnish_v with_o a_o capacity_n to_o behold_v and_o perfect_o comprehend_v they_o this_o be_v the_o heaven_n which_o according_a unto_o god_n promise_v we_o look_v for_o but_o as_o be_v say_v these_o thing_n shall_v be_v elsewhere_o more_o full_o treat_v of_o it_o be_v true_a that_o there_o be_v sundry_a other_o thing_n in_o particular_a that_o belong_v unto_o this_o state_n of_o glory_n but_o what_o we_o have_v mention_v be_v the_o fountain_n and_o spring_n of_o they_o all_o we_o can_v never_o have_v a_o immeditate_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n in_o the_o immensity_n of_o his_o nature_n nor_o can_v any_o create_a understanding_n conceive_v any_o such_o thing_n god_n communication_n of_o himself_o unto_o we_o and_o our_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o shall_v be_v in_o and_o by_o the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o glory_n in_o christ._n he_o who_o can_v see_v no_o glory_n who_o be_v sensible_a of_o no_o blessedness_n in_o these_o thing_n be_v a_o stranger_n unto_o that_o heaven_n which_o the_o scripture_n reveal_v and_o which_o faith_n lead_v unto_o it_o may_v be_v inquire_v what_o be_v the_o subjective_a glory_n or_o what_o change_n be_v to_o be_v wrought_v in_o ourselves_o that_o we_o may_v enjoy_v this_o glory_n now_o that_o consist_v principal_o as_o unto_o our_o soul_n in_o the_o perfection_n of_o all_o grace_n which_o be_v initial_o wrought_v and_o subjective_o reside_v in_o we_o in_o this_o world_n the_o grace_n which_o we_o have_v here_o shall_v not_o be_v do_v away_o as_o unto_o its_o essence_n and_o nature_n though_o somewhat_o of_o it_o shall_v cease_v as_o unto_o the_o manner_n of_o its_o operation_n what_o soul_n can_v think_v with_o joy_n of_o go_v to_o heaven_n if_o thereby_o he_o must_v lose_v all_o his_o present_a light_n faith_n and_o love_n of_o god_n though_o he_o be_v tell_v that_o he_o shall_v receive_v that_o in_o lieu_n of_o they_o which_o be_v more_o excellent_a whereof_o he_o have_v no_o experience_n nor_o can_v understand_v of_o what_o nature_n it_o be_v when_o the_o saint_n enter_v into_o rest_n their_o good_a work_n do_v follow_v they_o and_o how_o can_v they_o do_v so_o if_o their_o grace_n do_v not_o accompany_v they_o from_o whence_o they_o proceed_v the_o perfection_n of_o our_o present_a grace_n which_o be_v here_o weak_a and_o interrupt_v in_o their_o operation_n be_v a_o principal_a eminency_n of_o the_o state_n of_o glory_n faith_n shall_v be_v heighten_v into_o vision_n as_o be_v prove_v before_o which_o do_v not_o destroy_v its_o nature_n but_o cause_v it_o to_o cease_v as_o unto_o its_o manner_n of_o operation_n towards_o thing_n invisible_a if_o a_o man_n have_v a_o weak_a small_a faith_n in_o this_o life_n with_o little_a evidence_n and_o no_o assurance_n so_o that_o he_o doubt_v of_o all_o thing_n question_n all_o thing_n and_o have_v no_o comfort_n from_o what_o he_o do_v believe_v if_o afterward_o through_o supply_n of_o grace_n he_o have_v a_o mighty_a prevail_a evidence_n of_o the_o thing_n believe_v be_v fill_v with_o comfort_n and_o assurance_n this_o be_v not_o by_o a_o faith_n or_o grace_n of_o another_o kind_n than_o what_o he_o have_v before_o but_o by_o the_o same_o faith_n raise_v unto_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o perfection_n when_o our_o saviour_n cure_v the_o blind_a man_n and_o give_v he_o hls_o sight_n mark_v 8._o at_o first_o he_o see_v all_o thing_n obscure_o and_o imperfect_o he_o see_v man_n as_o tree_n walk_v ver_fw-la 24._o but_o on_o another_o application_n of_o virtue_n unto_o he_o he_o see_v all_o thing_n clear_o ver_fw-la 25._o it_o be_v not_o a_o sight_n of_o another_o kind_n which_o he_o then_o receive_v than_o what_o he_o have_v at_o first_o only_o its_o imperfection_n whereby_o he_o see_v man_n like_o tree_n walk_v be_v take_v away_o nor_o will_v our_o perfect_a vision_n of_o thing_n above_o be_v a_o grace_n absolute_o of_o another_o kind_n from_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n which_o we_o here_o enjoy_v only_o what_o be_v imperfect_a in_o it_o will_v be_v do_v away_o and_o it_o will_v be_v make_v meet_v for_o the_o present_a enjoyment_n of_o thing_n here_o at_o a_o distance_n and_o invisible_a love_n shall_v have_v its_o perfection_n also_o and_o the_o least_o alteration_n in_o its_o manner_n of_o operation_n of_o any_o grace_n whatever_o and_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o shall_v more_o excite_v we_o to_o labour_v after_o a_o growth_n in_o love_n to_o god_n in_o christ_n than_o this_o that_o it_o shall_v to_o all_o eternity_n be_v the_o same_o in_o its_o nature_n and_o in_o all_o its_o operation_n only_o both_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o shall_v be_v make_v absolute_o perfect_a the_o soul_n will_v by_o it_o be_v enable_v to_o cleave_v unto_o god_n unchangeable_o with_o eternal_a delight_n satisfaction_n and_o complacency_n hope_n shall_v be_v perfect_a in_o enjoyment_n which_o be_v all_o the_o perfection_n it_o be_v capable_a of_o so_o shall_v it_o be_v as_o unto_o other_o grace_n this_o subjective_a perfection_n of_o our_o nature_n especial_o in_o all_o the_o faculty_n power_n and_o affection_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o all_o their_o operation_n belong_v unto_o our_o blessedness_n nor_o can_v we_o be_v bless_v without_o it_o all_o the_o objective_a glory_n in_o heaven_n will_v not_o in_o our_o behold_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o it_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a make_v we_o bless_v and_o happy_a if_o our_o own_o nature_n be_v not_o make_v perfect_a free_v from_o all_o disorder_n irregular_a motion_n and_o weak_a imperfect_a operation_n what_o be_v it_o then_o that_o must_v give_v our_o nature_n this_o subjective_a perfection_n it_o be_v that_o grace_n alone_o who_o beginning_n we_o be_v here_o make_v partaker_n of_o for_o therein_o consist_v the_o renovation_n of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o we_o and_o the_o perfect_a communication_n of_o that_o image_n unto_o we_o be_v the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o utmost_a which_o their_o capacity_n be_v suit_v unto_o and_o this_o give_v we_o the_o last_o thing_n to_o be_v inquire_v into_o namely_o by_o what_o mean_v in_o ourselves_o we_o shall_v eternal_o abide_v in_o that_o state_n and_o this_o be_v by_o the_o unalterable_a adherence_n of_o our_o whole_a soul_n unto_o god_n in_o perfect_a love_n and_o delight_n this_o be_v that_o whereby_o alone_o the_o soul_n reach_v unto_o the_o essence_n of_o god_n and_o the_o infinite_a incomprehensible_a perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n for_o the_o perfect_a nature_n hereof_o divine_a revelation_n have_v leave_v it_o under_o a_o vail_n and_o so_o must_v we_o do_v also_o nor_o do_v i_o design_o handle_v these_o thing_n in_o this_o place_n but_o only_o in_o the_o way_n of_o a_o direction_n how_o to_o exercise_v our_o thought_n about_o they_o this_o be_v that_o notion_n of_o heaven_n which_o those_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v aught_o to_o be_v conversant_a withal_o and_o the_o true_a state_v of_o it_o by_o faith_n be_v
their_o avoidance_n they_o will_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o own_o way_n indeed_o the_o common_a converse_v of_o professor_n among_o themselves_o and_o other_o walking_z talk_v and_o behave_v themselves_o like_o other_o man_n be_v as_o full_a of_o the_o world_n as_o the_o world_n be_v of_o itself_o have_v lose_v the_o grace_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n within_o and_o stain_v the_o glory_n of_o profession_n without_o the_o rule_n observe_v by_o david_n will_v manifest_v how_o careful_a we_o ought_v to_o be_v herein_o psal._n 39.1_o 2_o 3._o i_o say_v i_o will_v take_v heed_n to_o my_o way_n that_o i_o sin_v not_o with_o my_o tongue_n i_o will_v keep_v my_o mouth_n with_o a_o bridle_n while_o the_o wicked_a be_v before_o i_o i_o be_v dumb_a with_o silence_n i_o hold_v my_o peace_n even_o from_o good_a and_o my_o sorrow_n be_v stir_v my_o heart_n be_v hot_a within_o i_o while_o i_o be_v muse_v the_o fire_n burn_v then_o speak_v i_o with_o my_o tongue_n which_o place_n be_v speak_v unto_o before_o 3._o a_o holy_a constraint_n put_v on_o the_o mind_n to_o abide_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o meditation_n press_v it_o continual_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o their_o necessity_n and_o usefulness_n the_o mind_n will_v be_v apt_a of_o itself_o to_o start_v aside_o from_o duty_n pure_o spiritual_a through_o the_o mixture_n of_o the_o flesh_n abide_v in_o it_o the_o more_o inward_a and_o pure_o spiritual_a any_o duty_n be_v which_o have_v no_o outward_a advantage_n the_o more_o prone_a will_v the_o mind_n be_v to_o decline_v from_o it_o it_o will_v be_v so_o more_o from_o private_a prayer_n than_o public_a more_o from_o meditation_n than_o prayer_n and_o other_o thing_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o draw_v it_o aside_o by_o object_n without_o and_o various_a stir_n of_o the_o affection_n within_o a_o holy_a constraint_n be_v to_o be_v put_v upon_o it_o with_o a_o sudden_a rejection_n of_o what_o rise_v up_o to_o its_o diversion_n or_o disturbance_n wherefore_o we_o be_v to_o call_v in_o all_o constrain_a motive_n such_o as_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n 2_o cor._n 5.14_o to_o keep_v the_o mind_n steady_a unto_o its_o duty_n 4._o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n to_o furnish_v the_o soul_n with_o that_o light_n and_o knowledge_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n which_o may_v administer_v continual_a matter_n of_o holy_a thought_n and_o meditation_n from_o within_o ourselves_o this_o have_v be_v speak_v unto_o at_o large_a before_o and_o the_o want_n hereof_o be_v that_o which_o keep_v many_o from_o the_o least_o proficiency_n in_o these_o duty_n as_o a_o man_n may_v have_v some_o skill_n or_o ability_n for_o a_o trade_n yet_o if_o he_o have_v no_o material_n to_o work_v upon_o he_o must_v sit_v still_o and_o let_v his_o trade_n alone_o and_o so_o must_v man_n do_v as_o unto_o the_o work_n of_o holy_a meditation_n whatever_o be_v the_o ability_n of_o the_o natural_a faculty_n their_o invention_n or_o memory_n if_o they_o be_v not_o furnish_v with_o knowledge_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a which_o be_v the_o subject_a matter_n of_o such_o meditation_n they_o must_v let_v their_o work_n alone_o hence_o the_o apostle_n pray_v for_o the_o colossian_n that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n may_v dwell_v in_o they_o rich_o in_o all_o wisdom_n chap._n 3.16_o that_o be_v that_o they_o may_v abound_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o christ_n without_o which_o we_o shall_v be_v unfit_a for_o this_o duty_n 5._o vnweariedness_n in_o our_o conflict_n with_o satan_n who_o by_o various_a artifices_fw-la and_o the_o injection_n of_o fiery_a dart_n labour_v continual_o to_o divert_v we_o from_o these_o duty_n he_o be_v seldom_o or_o never_o want_v unto_o this_o occasion_n he_o who_o be_v furnish_v in_o any_o measure_n with_o spiritual_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n may_v find_v he_o more_o sensible_o at_o work_n in_o his_o craft_n and_o opposition_n with_o respect_n unto_o this_o duty_n than_o any_o other_o way_n when_o we_o stand_v thus_o before_o the_o lord_n he_o be_v always_o at_o our_o right_a hand_n to_o resist_v we_o and_o ofttimes_o his_o strength_n be_v great_a hence_o as_o be_v observe_v ofttimes_o man_n design_v real_o to_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o holy_a thought_n but_o end_n in_o vain_a imagination_n and_o rather_o take_v up_o with_o trifle_n than_o continue_v in_o this_o duty_n steadiness_n in_o the_o resistance_n of_o he_o on_o these_o occasion_n be_v one_o great_a part_n of_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n and_o we_o may_v know_v that_o he_o be_v at_o work_n by_o his_o engine_n and_o method_n for_o they_o consist_v in_o his_o suggestion_n of_o vain_a foolish_a or_o corrupt_a imagination_n when_o they_o begin_v to_o rise_v in_o our_o mind_n at_o such_o time_n as_o we_o will_v engage_v they_o in_o spiritual_a meditation_n we_o may_v know_v assure_o from_o whence_o they_o be_v 6._o continual_a watchful_a care_n that_o no_o root_n of_o bitterness_n spring_v up_o and_o defile_v we_o that_o no_o lust_n or_o corruption_n be_v predominant_a in_o we_o when_o it_o be_v so_o if_o person_n in_o compliance_n with_o their_o conviction_n do_v endeavour_v sometime_o to_o be_v exercise_v in_o these_o duty_n they_o shall_v labour_v in_o the_o very_a fire_n where_o all_o their_o endeavour_n will_v be_v immediate_o consume_v 7._o mortification_n unto_o the_o world_n in_o our_o affection_n and_o desire_n with_o moderation_n in_o our_o endeavour_n after_o the_o needful_a thing_n of_o it_o be_v also_o necessary_a hereunto_o yea_o to_o that_o degree_n that_o without_o they_o no_o man_n can_v in_o any_o sense_n be_v say_v to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n for_o otherwise_o our_o affection_n can_v be_v so_o preserve_v under_o the_o power_n of_o grace_n as_o that_o spiritual_a thing_n may_v be_v always_o savoury_a unto_o we_o some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v say_v that_o if_o all_o these_o thing_n be_v require_v thereunto_o it_o will_v take_v up_o a_o man_n whole_a life_n and_o time_n to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n they_o hope_v they_o may_v attain_v it_o at_o a_o easy_a rate_n and_o not_o forgo_v all_o other_o advantage_n and_o sweetness_n of_o life_n which_o a_o strict_a observation_n of_o these_o thing_n will_v cast_v they_o upon_o i_o answer_v that_o however_o it_o may_v prove_v a_o hard_a say_v unto_o some_o yet_o i_o must_v say_v it_o and_o my_o heart_n will_v reproach_v i_o if_o i_o shall_v not_o say_v that_o if_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o our_o time_n be_v not_o spend_v about_o these_o thing_n whatever_o we_o suppose_v we_o have_v indeed_o neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n the_o first-fruit_n of_o all_o be_v to_o be_v offer_v unto_o god_n and_o in_o sacrifice_n he_o require_v the_o blood_n and_o the_o fat_a of_o the_o inward_o if_o the_o best_a be_v not_o he_o he_o will_v have_v nothing_o it_o be_v so_o as_o to_o our_o time_n tell_v i_o i_o pray_v you_o how_o you_o can_v spend_v your_o time_n and_o your_o life_n better_o or_o to_o better_a purpose_n and_o i_o shall_v say_v go_v on_o and_o prosper_v i_o be_o sure_a some_o spend_v so_o much_o of_o their_o time_n so_o much_o worse_o as_o it_o be_v a_o shame_n to_o see_v it_o do_v you_o think_v you_o come_v into_o this_o world_n to_o spend_v your_o whole_a time_n and_o strength_n in_o your_o employment_n your_o trade_n your_o pleasure_n unto_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o the_o will_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o of_o the_o mind_n have_v you_o time_n enough_o to_o eat_v to_o drink_v to_o sleep_v to_o talk_v unprofitable_o it_o may_v be_v corrupt_o in_o all_o sort_n of_o unnecessary_a society_n but_o have_v not_o enough_o to_o live_v unto_o god_n in_o the_o very_a essential_o of_o that_o life_n which_o consist_v in_o these_o thing_n alas_o you_o come_v into_o the_o world_n under_o this_o law_n it_o be_v appoint_v to_o all_o man_n once_o to_o die_v and_o after_o that_o be_v the_o judgement_n and_o the_o end_v why_o your_o life_n here_o be_v grant_v unto_o you_o be_v that_o you_o may_v be_v prepare_v for_o that_o judgement_n if_o this_o be_v neglect_v if_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o your_o time_n be_v not_o improve_v with_o respect_n unto_o this_o end_n you_o will_v fall_v under_o the_o sentence_n of_o it_o unto_o eternity_n but_o man_n be_v apt_a to_o mistake_v in_o this_o matter_n they_o may_v think_v that_o these_o thing_n tend_v to_o take_v they_o off_o from_o their_o lawful_a employment_n and_o recreation_n which_o they_o be_v general_o afraid_a of_o and_o unwilling_a to_o purchase_v any_o frame_n of_o mind_n at_o so_o dear_a a_o rate_n they_o may_v suppose_v that_o to_o have_v man_n spiritual_o mind_v we_o will_v make_v they_o mope_v and_o to_o disregard_n all_o the_o lawful_a occasion_n of_o life_n but_o let_v not_o any_o be_v mistake_v i_o be_o not_o
we_o col._n 1.27_o christ_n in_o you_o the_o hope_n of_o glory_n where_o christ_n evidence_v his_o presence_n with_o we_o he_o give_v we_o a_o infallible_a hope_n of_o glory_n he_o give_v we_o a_o assure_a pledge_n of_o it_o and_o work_v our_o soul_n unto_o a_o expectation_n of_o it_o hope_v in_o general_n be_v but_o a_o uncertain_a expectation_n of_o a_o future_a good_a which_o we_o desire_v but_o as_o it_o be_v a_o gospel_n grace_n all_o uncertainty_n be_v remove_v from_o it_o which_o will_v hinder_v we_o of_o the_o advantage_n intend_v in_o it_o it_o be_v a_o earnest_a expectation_n proceed_v from_o faith_n trust_v and_o confidence_n accompany_v with_o long_a desire_n of_o enjoyment_n from_o a_o mistake_n of_o its_o nature_n it_o be_v that_o few_o christian_n labour_n after_o it_o exercise_v themselves_o unto_o it_o or_o have_v the_o benefit_n of_o it_o for_o to_o live_v by_o hope_n they_o suppose_v infer_v a_o state_n not_o only_o beneath_o the_o life_n of_o faith_n and_o all_o assurance_n in_o believe_v but_o also_o exclusive_a of_o they_o they_o think_v to_o hope_v to_o be_v save_v be_v a_o condition_n of_o man_n who_o have_v no_o ground_n of_o faith_n or_o assurance_n but_o this_o be_v to_o turn_v a_o bless_a fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n into_o a_o common_a affection_n of_o nature_n gospel_n hope_n be_v a_o fruit_n of_o faith_n trust_v and_o confidence_n yea_o the_o height_n of_o the_o act_n of_o all_o grace_n issue_v in_o a_o well_o ground_a hope_n nor_o can_v it_o rise_v any_o high_a rom._n 5._o 2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o now_o the_o reason_n why_o man_n have_v no_o more_o use_n of_o no_o more_o benefit_n by_o this_o excellent_a grace_n be_v because_o they_o do_v not_o abide_v in_o thought_n and_o contemplation_n of_o the_o thing_n hope_v for_o the_o especial_a object_n of_o hope_n be_v eternal_a glory_n col._n 1.27_o rom._n 5.2_o the_o peculiar_a use_n of_o it_o be_v to_o support_v comfort_n and_o refresh_v the_o soul_n in_o all_o trial_n under_o all_o weariness_n and_o despondency_n with_o a_o firm_a expectation_n of_o a_o speedy_a entrance_n into_o that_o glory_n with_o a_o earnest_a desire_n after_o it_o wherefore_o unless_o we_o acquaint_v ourselves_o by_o continual_a meditation_n with_o the_o reality_n and_o nature_n of_o this_o glory_n it_o be_v impossible_a it_o shall_v be_v the_o object_n of_o a_o vigorous_a active_a hope_n such_o as_o whereby_o the_o apostle_n say_v we_o be_v save_v without_o this_o we_o can_v neither_o have_v that_o evidence_n of_o eternal_a thing_n nor_o that_o valuation_n of_o they_o nor_o that_o preparedness_n in_o our_o mind_n for_o they_o as_o shall_v keep_v we_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o gracious_a hope_n about_o they_o suppose_v sundry_a person_n engage_v in_o a_o voyage_n unto_o a_o most_o remote_a country_n wherein_o all_o of_o they_o have_v a_o apprehension_n that_o there_o be_v a_o place_n of_o rest_n and_o a_o inheritance_n provide_v for_o they_o under_o this_o apprehension_n they_o all_o put_v themselves_o upon_o their_o voyage_n to_o possess_v what_o be_v so_o prepare_v howbeit_o some_o of_o they_o have_v only_o a_o general_a notion_n of_o these_o thing_n they_o know_v nothing_o distinct_o concern_v they_o and_o be_v so_o busy_v about_o other_o affair_n that_o they_o have_v no_o leisure_n to_o inquire_v into_o they_o or_o do_v suppose_v that_o they_o can_v come_v unto_o any_o satisfactory_a knowledge_n of_o they_o in_o particular_a and_o so_o be_v content_a to_o go_v on_o with_o general_a hope_n and_o expectation_n other_o there_o be_v who_o by_o all_o possible_a mean_n acquaint_v themselves_o particular_o with_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o climate_n whither_o they_o be_v go_v with_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o inheritance_n and_o provision_n that_o be_v make_v for_o they_o their_o voyage_n prove_v long_a and_o wearisome_a their_o difficulty_n many_o and_o their_o danger_n great_a and_o they_o have_v nothing_o to_o relieve_v and_o encourage_v themselves_o but_o the_o hope_n and_o expectation_n of_o the_o country_n whither_o they_o be_v go_v those_o of_o the_o first_o sort_n will_v be_v very_o apt_a to_o despond_v and_o faint_v their_o general_a hope_n will_v not_o be_v able_a to_o relieve_v they_o but_o those_o who_o have_v a_o distinct_a notion_n and_o apprehension_n of_o the_o state_n of_o thing_n whither_o they_o be_v go_v and_o of_o their_o incomparable_a excellency_n have_v always_o in_o a_o readiness_n wherewith_o to_o cheer_v their_o mind_n and_o support_v themselves_o in_o that_o journey_n or_o pilgrimage_n wherein_o we_o be_v engage_v towards_o a_o heavenly_a country_n we_o be_v sure_a to_o meet_v with_o all_o kind_n of_o danger_n difficulty_n and_o peril_n it_o be_v not_o a_o general_a notion_n of_o blessedness_n that_o will_v excite_v and_o work_v in_o we_o a_o spiritual_a refresh_a hope_n but_o when_o we_o think_v and_o meditate_v on_o future_a glory_n as_o we_o ought_v that_o grace_n which_o be_v neglect_v for_o the_o most_o part_n as_o unto_o its_o benefit_n and_o dead_a as_o unto_o its_o exercise_n will_v of_o all_o other_o be_v most_o vigorous_a and_o active_a put_v itself_o forth_o on_o all_o occasion_n this_o therefore_o be_v a_o inestimable_a benefit_n of_o the_o duty_n exhort_v unto_o and_o which_o they_o find_v the_o advantage_n of_o who_o be_v real_o spiritual_o mind_v 3._o this_o alone_a will_v make_v we_o ready_a for_o the_o cross_n for_o all_o sort_n of_o suffering_n that_o we_o may_v be_v expose_v unto_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o necessary_a unto_o believer_n at_o this_o season_n than_o to_o have_v their_o mind_n furnish_v with_o provision_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o may_v prepare_v they_o for_o the_o cross_n and_o suffering_n various_a intimation_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n circumstance_n of_o providence_n the_o present_a state_n of_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n with_o the_o instant_a peril_n of_o the_o latter_a day_n do_v all_o call_v they_o hereunto_o if_o it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o they_o they_o will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o be_v woeful_o surprise_v and_o think_v strange_a of_o their_o trial_n as_o if_o some_o strange_a thing_n do_v befall_v they_o nothing_o be_v more_o useful_a unto_o this_o end_n than_o constant_a thought_n and_o contemplation_n of_o eternal_a thing_n and_o future_a glory_n from_o thence_o alone_o can_v the_o soul_n have_v in_o a_o readiness_n what_o to_o lay_v in_o the_o balance_n against_o all_o sort_n of_o suffering_n when_o a_o storm_n begin_v to_o arise_v at_o sea_n the_o mariner_n bestir_v themselves_o in_o the_o management_n of_o the_o tackle_n of_o the_o ship_n and_o other_o application_n of_o their_o art_n for_o their_o safety_n but_o if_o the_o storm_n increase_n and_o come_v to_o extremity_n they_o be_v force_v to_o forego_v all_o other_o mean_n and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o a_o sheat-anchor_n to_o hold_v their_o ship_n steady_a against_o its_o violence_n so_o when_o a_o storm_n of_o persecution_n and_o trouble_n begin_v to_o arise_v man_n have_v various_a way_n and_o consideration_n for_o their_o relief_n but_o if_o it_o once_o come_v to_o extremity_n if_o sword_n nakedness_n famine_n and_o death_n be_v inevitable_o come_v upon_o they_o they_o have_v nothing_o to_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o that_o will_v yield_v they_o solid_a relief_n but_o the_o consideration_n and_o faith_n of_o thing_n invisible_a and_o eternal_a so_o the_o apostle_n declare_v this_o state_n of_o thing_n 2_o cor._n 4._o 16_o 17_o 18._o the_o word_n before_o insist_v on_o for_o which_o cause_n we_o faint_v not_o but_o though_o our_o outward_a man_n perish_v yet_o the_o inward_a be_v renew_v day_n by_o day_n for_o our_o light_a affliction_n which_o be_v but_o for_o a_o moment_n work_v for_o we_o a_o far_o more_o exceed_a and_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n while_o we_o look_v not_o at_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v see_v but_o at_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o see_v for_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v see_v be_v temporal_a but_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o see_v be_v eternal_a he_o lay_v all_o sort_n of_o affliction_n in_o one_o scale_n and_o on_o the_o consideration_n of_o they_o declare_v they_o to_o be_v light_n and_o but_o for_o a_o moment_n then_o he_o lay_v glory_n in_o the_o other_o scale_n and_o find_v it_o to_o be_v ponderous_a weighty_a and_o eternal_a a_o exceed_a weight_n of_o glory_n in_o the_o one_o be_v sorrow_n for_o a_o little_a while_n in_o the_o other_o eternal_a joy_n in_o the_o one_o pain_n for_o a_o few_o moment_n in_o the_o other_o everlasting_a rest_n in_o the_o one_o be_v the_o loss_n of_o some_o few_o temporary_a thing_n in_o the_o other_o the_o full_a fruition_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n who_o be_v all_o in_o all_o hence_o the_o same_o apostle_n cast_v up_o the_o account_n of_o these_o thing_n and_o give_v we_o his_o judgement_n concern_v they_o rom._n 8.18_o for_o i_o