be_v please_v to_o grant_v we_o through_o jesus_n christ._n and_o 2_o it_o will_v fix_v our_o thought_n and_o affection_n upon_o the_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n communicate_v such_o a_o inestimable_a mercy_n unto_o we_o as_o be_v a_o sense_n of_o his_o love_n which_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o a_o relish_n of_o it_o in_o our_o heart_n he_o who_o be_v in_o this_o frame_n of_o mind_n will_v remember_v call_v over_o and_o ruminate_v upon_o all_o such_o gracious_a pledge_n of_o divine_a favour_n as_o david_n be_v often_o remember_v and_o call_v over_o what_o he_o receive_v in_o such_o place_n as_o in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o hermonite_n and_o at_o the_o hill_n missar_n psal._n 42._o this_o be_v the_o great_a way_n whereby_o this_o treasure_n may_v be_v preserve_v 3_o a_o person_n so_o mind_v and_o he_o alone_o will_v have_v a_o due_a valuation_n of_o such_o intimation_n and_o pledge_n of_o divine_a love_n those_o who_o be_v full_a of_o other_o thing_n who_o affection_n cleave_v unto_o they_o do_v never_o esteem_v heavenly_a mercy_n and_o privilege_n as_o they_o ought_v the_o full_a soul_n loathe_v the_o honeycomb_n and_o god_n be_v well_o please_v when_o a_o high_a valuation_n be_v put_v upon_o his_o kindness_n as_o he_o be_v great_o provoke_v by_o the_o contrary_a frame_n which_o indeed_o nothing_o but_o infinite_a patience_n can_v bear_v withal_o it_o be_v a_o high_a provocation_n of_o god_n when_o man_n be_v regardless_o of_o and_o unthankful_a for_o outward_a temporal_a mercy_n when_o they_o receive_v they_o and_o use_v they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v their_o own_o that_o they_o be_v lord_n of_o they_o at_o least_o that_o they_o be_v due_a unto_o they_o much_o more_o be_v he_o provoke_v with_o our_o regardlesness_n of_o the_o least_o of_o those_o mercy_n which_o be_v the_o peculiar_a purchase_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o his_o son_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o eternal_a love_n and_o grace_n he_o alone_z who_o be_v spiritually-minded_n value_v prize_v and_o lay_v up_o these_o ininestimable_a jewel_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n 4_o such_o person_n only_o know_v how_o to_o use_v and_o improve_v all_o communication_n of_o a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n these_o thing_n be_v not_o grant_v unto_o we_o to_o lie_v by_o we_o without_o any_o use_n of_o they_o they_o be_v gracious_a provision_n wherewith_o we_o be_v furnish_v to_o enable_v we_o unto_o all_o other_o duty_n conflict_n and_o trial_n on_o all_o occasion_n be_v they_o to_o be_v call_v over_o for_o our_o spiritual_a relief_n and_o encouragement_n hereby_o be_v they_o safe_o retain_v for_o in_o the_o due_a improvement_n of_o they_o they_o grow_v more_o bright_a in_o our_o mind_n every_o day_n and_o be_v ready_a for_o use_v in_o which_o posture_n they_o be_v safe_o preserve_v but_o these_o thing_n will_v yet_o be_v far_o manifest_v in_o the_o instance_n that_o ensue_v 2_o this_o frame_n of_o mind_n cast_v out_o all_o principle_n and_o cause_n of_o trouble_n and_o disquietment_n which_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o life_n and_o peace_n there_o be_v in_o we_o by_o nature_n principle_n of_o contrariety_n and_o opposition_n unto_o spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n with_o sundry_a thing_n who_o abide_v and_o prevalency_n in_o we_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o they_o i_o shall_v give_v only_o one_o or_o two_o instance_n hereof_o 1_o it_o will_v cast_v out_o all_o filthiness_n and_o superfluity_n of_o naughtiness_n from_o our_o mind_n without_o this_o we_o can_v receive_v no_o benefit_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n nor_o perform_v any_o duty_n in_o a_o right_a manner_n jam._n 1.27_o this_o be_v that_o which_o stand_v in_o direct_a immediate_a opposition_n and_o contrariety_n unto_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a so_o as_o they_o can_v have_v no_o consistency_n in_o the_o same_o person_n and_o they_o expel_v on_o another_o like_a heat_n and_o cold._n and_o where_o there_o be_v this_o filthiness_n and_o superfluity_n of_o naughtiness_n there_o be_v neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n unclean_a lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n or_o of_o the_o spirit_n work_v tumultuate_a act_v themselves_o in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n will_v not_o suffer_v either_o the_o life_n of_o holiness_n to_o flourish_v in_o they_o or_o any_o solid_a peace_n to_o abide_v with_o they_o the_o soul_n be_v weaken_v by_o they_o as_o unto_o all_o spiritual_a act_n and_o make_v like_o a_o trouble_a sea_n that_o can_v rest_v who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt_n where_o they_o be_v absolute_o predominant_a there_o be_v a_o hell_n within_o of_o darkness_n confusion_n and_o enmity_n against_o god_n prepare_v man_n for_o a_o hell_n of_o punishment_n without_o unto_o eternity_n and_o according_a as_o they_o remain_v or_o have_v any_o prevalency_n in_o we_o so_o be_v spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n impair_v and_o obstruct_v by_o they_o now_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o its_o universal_a exercise_n be_v suit_v to_o the_o cast_v out_o of_o all_o the_o relic_n of_o this_o filthiness_n and_o supersfluity_n of_o naughtiness_n it_o bring_v in_o a_o principle_n into_o the_o mind_n direct_o contrary_a unto_o that_o from_o whence_o they_o do_v proceed_v all_o the_o act_n of_o it_o which_o we_o have_v describe_v lie_v in_o direct_a tendency_n unto_o the_o extirpation_n of_o these_o cause_n of_o filthiness_n which_o ruin_n life_n and_o peace_n nor_o will_v they_o by_o any_o other_o way_n be_v cast_v out_o if_o the_o mind_n be_v not_o spiritual_a it_o will_v be_v carnal_a if_o it_o mind_v not_o thing_n above_o it_o will_v not_o fix_v itself_o inordinate_o on_o thing_n below_o 2_o that_o disorder_n which_o be_v by_o nature_n in_o the_o affection_n and_o passion_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o be_v direct_o opposite_a unto_o spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n be_v cast_v out_o or_o cure_v hereby_o it_o be_v a_o bless_a promise_n of_o the_o time_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n of_o the_o kingdom_n and_o rule_n of_o christ_n that_o through_o the_o efficacy_n of_o gospel_n grace_n the_o lion_n shall_v lie_v down_o with_o the_o lamb_n and_o the_o leopard_n with_o the_o kid_n isaiah_n 11.6_o person_n of_o the_o most_o intemperate_a and_o outrageous_a passion_n shall_v be_v make_v meek_a and_o lovely_a where_o this_o be_v not_o in_o some_o measure_n effect_v according_a unto_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o prevalency_n of_o such_o passion_n in_o we_o we_o have_v not_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o evangelical_n grace_n it_o be_v a_o easy_a task_n to_o demonstrate_v how_o the_o disorder_n of_o our_o affection_n and_o passion_n be_v destructive_a of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n the_o contrariety_n that_o be_v in_o they_o and_o contradiction_n unto_o one_o another_o their_o violence_n impetuousness_n and_o restlessness_n their_o readiness_n to_o receive_v and_o take_v in_o provocation_n on_o all_o occasion_n and_o frequent_o on_o none_o at_o all_o but_o what_o imagination_n present_v unto_o they_o be_v sufficient_a evidence_n hereof_o can_v we_o think_v that_o life_n and_o peace_n do_v inhabit_v that_o soul_n wherein_o anger_n wrath_n envy_n excess_n in_o love_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n no_o dwell_v and_o on_o all_o occasion_n exert_v themselves_o there_o where_o there_o be_v a_o continual_a tumult_n fight_v and_o rebellion_n as_o there_o be_v where_o the_o passion_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v not_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o reason_n nor_o of_o grace_n the_o nature_n and_o principal_a effect_n of_o this_o spiritual_a mindedness_n be_v to_o bring_v all_o the_o affection_n and_o passion_n of_o our_o mind_n into_o that_o holy_a order_n wherein_o they_o be_v create_v this_o be_v that_o uprightness_n wherein_o god_n make_v we_o namely_o the_o whole_a bless_a order_n of_o all_o the_o power_n faculty_n and_o affection_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o all_o their_o operation_n in_o order_n unto_o our_o live_n unto_o god_n and_o this_o be_v restore_v unto_o we_o by_o this_o grace_n this_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a and_o wherein_o it_o fall_v short_a of_o that_o perfection_n which_o we_o have_v original_o for_o the_o remainder_n of_o that_o disorder_n which_o befall_v we_o by_o sin_n will_v still_o in_o part_n continue_v it_o be_v recompense_v by_o the_o act_n of_o that_o new_a principle_n of_o gospel_n grace_n which_o be_v exercise_v in_o it_o for_o every_o act_n of_o of_o our_o affection_n towards_o god_n in_o the_o power_n of_o grace_n exceed_v and_o be_v of_o another_o nature_n above_o that_o we_o can_v do_v or_o attain_v unto_o in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n uncorrupted_a hereby_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n bring_v into_o our_o soul_n and_o preserve_v in_o they_o 3_o it_o be_v that_o whereby_o our_o heart_n and_o mind_n be_v take_v off_o from_o the_o world_n and_o all_o inordinate_a love_n thereunto_o where_o this_o be_v in_o prevalent_a degree_n there_o be_v neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n and_o every_o
all_o the_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o spiritual_a judgement_n as_o well_o as_o natural_a affection_n and_o i_o do_v not_o understand_v how_o a_o man_n can_v be_v a_o sincere_a believer_n unto_o who_o sin_n be_v not_o the_o great_a burden_n and_o sorrow_n wherefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n it_o belong_v unto_o the_o true_a notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o it_o be_v a_o state_n wherein_o we_o shall_v be_v eternal_o free_v from_o sin_n and_o all_o the_o concernment_n of_o it_o but_o only_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o christ_n by_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o he_o that_o true_o hate_v sin_n and_o abhor_v it_o who_o principal_a desire_n and_o design_n of_o life_n be_v to_o be_v free_v from_o it_o so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v possible_a who_o walk_v in_o self_n abasement_n through_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o many_o disappointment_n when_o he_o hope_v it_o shall_v act_v in_o he_o no_o more_o can_v as_o i_o judge_v but_o frequent_o betake_v himself_o for_o refreshment_n unto_o thought_n of_o that_o state_n wherein_o he_o shall_v be_v free_v from_o it_o and_o triumph_n over_o it_o unto_o eternity_n this_o be_v a_o notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v easy_o apprehend_v and_o fix_v on_o the_o mind_n which_o we_o may_v dwell_v upon_o unto_o the_o great_a advantage_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o our_o soul_n frequent_a thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o heaven_n under_o this_o notion_n do_v argue_v a_o man_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o it_o be_v a_o convince_a evidence_n that_o sin_n be_v a_o burden_n unto_o he_o that_o he_o belong_v to_o be_v deliver_v from_o it_o and_o all_o its_o consequent_n that_o no_o thought_n be_v more_o welcome_a unto_o he_o than_o those_o of_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o and_o although_o man_n be_v trouble_v about_o their_o sin_n and_o will_v desirous_o be_v free_v from_o they_o so_o far_o as_o they_o perplex_v their_o mind_n and_o make_v their_o conscience_n uneasy_a yet_o if_o they_o be_v not_o much_o in_o the_o prospect_n of_o this_o relief_n if_o they_o find_v not_o refreshment_n in_o it_o i_o fear_v their_o trouble_n be_v not_o such_o as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v wherefore_o when_o man_n can_v so_o wrangle_v and_o wrestle_v with_o their_o conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o yet_o take_v up_o the_o best_a of_o their_o relief_n in_o hope_n that_o it_o will_v be_v better_o with_o they_o at_o some_o time_n or_o other_o in_o this_o world_n without_o long_a desire_n after_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o they_o can_v give_v no_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v it_o be_v quite_o otherwise_o with_o sincere_a believer_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o duty_n the_o consideration_n of_o the_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n of_o the_o purity_n and_o holiness_n of_o that_o good_a spirit_n that_o dwell_v in_o they_o of_o the_o light_n grace_n and_o mercy_n which_o they_o have_v attain_v through_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v those_o which_o make_v the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n most_o grievous_a and_o burdensome_a unto_o they_o this_o be_v that_o which_o even_o break_v their_o heart_n and_o make_v some_o of_o they_o go_v mourn_v all_o the_o day_n long_o namely_o that_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o which_o alone_a god_n hate_v shall_v be_v find_v in_o they_o or_o be_v remain_v with_o they_o it_o be_v in_o this_o condition_n a_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v if_o together_o with_o watchful_a endeavour_n for_o the_o universal_a mortification_n of_o sin_n and_o utter_a excision_n of_o it_o both_o root_n and_o branch_n they_o constant_o add_v these_o thought_n of_o that_o bless_a state_n wherein_o they_o shall_v be_v absolute_o and_o eternal_o free_v from_o all_o sin_n with_o refreshment_n delight_n and_o complacency_n these_o thing_n belong_v unto_o our_o direction_n for_o the_o fix_v of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n on_o thing_n above_o this_o the_o mean_a and_o weak_a person_n who_o have_v the_o least_o spark_n of_o sincerity_n and_o grace_n be_v capable_a of_o apprehend_v and_o able_a to_o practice_v and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o the_o sense_n they_o have_v of_o the_o evil_a of_o sin_n will_v put_v they_o on_o every_o day_n if_o they_o shut_v not_o their_o eye_n against_o the_o light_n of_o the_o refreshment_n that_o be_v in_o it_o let_v they_o who_o can_v arise_v in_o their_o mind_n unto_o fix_a and_o stable_a thought_n of_o any_o other_o notion_n of_o these_o invisible_a thing_n dwell_v on_o this_o consideration_n of_o they_o wherein_o they_o will_v find_v no_o small_a spiritual_a advantage_n and_o refreshment_n unto_o their_o soul_n 2._o as_o unto_o the_o positive_a part_n of_o this_o glorious_a future_a state_n the_o thought_n and_o apprehension_n of_o man_n be_v very_o various_a and_o that_o we_o may_v know_v as_o well_o what_o to_o avoid_v as_o what_o to_o embrace_v we_o shall_v a_o little_a reflect_v on_o some_o of_o they_o 1._o many_o be_v able_a to_o entertain_v no_o rational_a conception_n about_o a_o future_a state_n of_o blessedness_n and_o glory_n no_o notion_n wherein_o either_o faith_n or_o reason_n be_v concern_v imagination_n they_o have_v of_o something_o that_o be_v great_a and_o glorious_a but_o what_o it_o be_v they_o know_v not_o no_o wonder_n if_o such_o person_n have_v no_o delight_n in_o no_o use_n of_o thought_n of_o heaven_n when_o their_o imagination_n have_v fluctuate_v up_o and_o down_o in_o all_o uncertainty_n for_o a_o while_n they_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o nothing_o glorious_a and_o therefore_o desirable_a they_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o it_o must_v be_v but_o nothing_o can_v be_v so_o unto_o they_o but_o what_o be_v suitable_a unto_o their_o present_a disposition_n inclination_n and_o principle_n and_o hereof_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o true_a spiritual_a glory_n of_o heaven_n or_o in_o the_o eternal_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n these_o thing_n be_v not_o suit_v unto_o the_o will_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o of_o the_o flesh_n and_o therefore_o they_o can_v rise_v up_o unto_o any_o constant_a desire_n of_o they_o hence_o to_o please_v themselves_o they_o begin_v to_o imagine_v what_o be_v not_o but_o whereas_o what_o be_v true_o heaven_n please_v they_o not_o and_o what_o do_v please_v they_o be_v not_o heaven_n nor_o there_o to_o be_v find_v they_o seldom_o or_o never_o endeavour_v in_o good_a earnest_n to_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o it_o it_o be_v well_o if_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o the_o future_a state_n and_o eternal_a glory_n do_v not_o exceed_o prejudice_n believer_n themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o meditation_n about_o they_o they_o have_v nothing_o fix_v or_o state_v in_o their_o mind_n which_o they_o can_v betake_v themselves_o unto_o in_o their_o thought_n when_o they_o will_v contemplate_v about_o they_o and_o by_o the_o way_n whatever_o do_v divert_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o the_o power_n and_o life_n of_o spiritual_a worship_n as_o do_v all_o pompous_a solemnity_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o do_v great_o hinder_v they_o as_o unto_o right_a conception_n of_o our_o future_a state_n there_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n give_v unto_o the_o saint_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n but_o whereas_o they_o be_v oblige_v unto_o a_o worship_n that_o be_v carnal_a and_o outward_o pompous_a they_o never_o have_v clear_a and_o distinct_a apprehension_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o glory_n for_o life_n and_o immortality_n be_v bring_v to_o light_n by_o the_o gospel_n wherefore_o although_o no_o man_n live_a can_v see_v or_o find_v out_o the_o infinite_a riches_n of_o eternal_a glory_n yet_o be_v it_o the_o duty_n of_o all_o to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o in_o general_a so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v have_v fix_v thought_n of_o it_o love_n unto_o it_o earnest_n desire_v after_o it_o all_o under_o its_o own_o true_a and_o proper_a notion_n 2._o so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o mankind_n as_o the_o mahometan_n unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v all_o the_o principal_a and_o most_o desirable_a part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o inhabit_v and_o possess_v do_v conceive_v the_o state_n of_o future_a blessedness_n to_o consist_v in_o the_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o their_o sensual_a lust_n and_o pleasure_n a_o evidence_n this_o be_v that_o the_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v have_v no_o power_n or_o efficacy_n on_o their_o mind_n to_o change_v they_o from_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n or_o place_v their_o happiness_n in_o fulfil_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o flesh._n it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o enlighten_v their_o mind_n to_o discern_v a_o beauty_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n nor_o excite_v their_o affection_n unto_o the_o love_n of_o they_o nor_o free_v the_o soul_n
of_o the_o divine_a nature_n our_o dependence_n on_o he_o and_o relation_n unto_o he_o and_o this_o be_v that_o which_o in_o the_o first_o place_n believer_n design_v in_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o the_o pattern_n set_v we_o by_o our_o bless_a saviour_n in_o the_o prayer_n he_o teach_v his_o disciple_n direct_v we_o thereunto_o all_o the_o first_o request_n of_o it_o concern_v immediate_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o advancement_n thereof_o for_o therein_o also_o all_o the_o blessedness_n and_o safety_n of_o the_o church_n be_v include_v those_o who_o fail_v in_o this_o design_n do_v err_v in_o all_o that_o they_o do_v they_o never_o tend_v unto_o the_o mark_n propose_v unto_o they_o but_o this_o be_v that_o which_o principal_o animate_v the_o soul_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o all_o their_o duty_n this_o their_o universal_a relation_n unto_o he_o and_o love_n in_o that_o relation_n make_v necessary_a wherefore_o that_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v direct_o and_o solemn_o ascribe_v and_o give_v glory_n unto_o god_n be_v precious_a and_o delightful_a unto_o they_o and_o such_o be_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n these_o be_v some_o of_o the_o thing_n wherein_o the_o respect_n of_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v unto_o ordinance_n and_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n do_v differ_v from_o the_o act_n of_o affection_n towards_o the_o same_o object_n which_o be_v not_o so_o santify_v and_o renew_v there_o be_v yet_o other_o thing_n accompany_v with_o the_o same_o evidence_n of_o the_o difference_n between_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v and_o those_o which_o have_v only_o a_o general_a change_n wrought_v in_o they_o by_o conviction_n and_o some_o outward_a occasion_n which_o must_v in_o one_o or_o two_o instance_n more_o be_v insist_v on_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o such_o case_n as_o derive_v from_o they_o for_o my_o design_n herein_o be_v not_o only_o to_o declare_v when_o our_o mind_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v but_o also_o what_o be_v the_o nature_n and_o operation_n of_o our_o affection_n whereby_o we_o be_v constitute_v and_o denominate_v spiritually-minded_n which_o be_v the_o subject_a of_o our_o whole_a enquiry_n herein_o than_o we_o shall_v proceed_v chap._n xvi_o assimulation_n unto_o thing_n heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a in_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v this_o assimulation_n the_o work_n of_o faith_n how_o and_o whereby_o reason_n of_o the_o want_n of_o growth_n in_o our_o spiritual_a affection_n as_o unto_o this_o assimulation_n when_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v in_o their_o exercise_n or_o fix_v of_o themselves_o on_o spiritual_a thing_n there_o be_v a_o assimulation_n wrought_v in_o they_o and_o in_o the_o whole_a soul_n unto_o those_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n by_o faith_n but_o when_o there_o be_v a_o change_n in_o they_o only_o from_o other_o cause_n and_o occasion_n and_o not_o from_o renew_v grace_n there_o be_v a_o assimulation_n effect_v of_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n unto_o themselves_o unto_o those_o affection_n by_o imagination_n this_o must_v somewhat_o at_o large_a be_v speak_v unto_o as_o that_o which_o give_v the_o most_o eminent_a distinction_n between_o the_o frame_v of_o mind_n who_o difference_n we_o inquire_v into_o and_o to_o that_o end_n we_o shall_v cast_v our_o consideration_n of_o it_o into_o the_o ensue_a observation_n first_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v be_v in_o all_o their_o act_n in_o their_o whole_a exercise_n under_o the_o guidance_n and_o conduct_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v faith_n which_o in_o its_o spiritual_a light_n have_v the_o lead_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o whole_a life_n of_o god_n we_o live_v here_o by_o faith_n as_o we_o shall_v do_v hereafter_o by_o light_n if_o our_o affection_n deviate_v or_o decline_v in_o the_o least_o from_o the_o guidance_n of_o the_o faith_n they_o degenerate_a from_o their_o spirituality_n and_o give_v up_o themselves_o unto_o the_o service_n of_o superstition_n next_o unto_o corrupt_a secular_a interest_n in_o the_o management_n of_o crafty_a selfish_a seducer_n this_o have_v be_v the_o great_a inlet_n of_o all_o superstition_n and_o false_a worship_n into_o the_o world_n blind_a affection_n grope_v in_o the_o dark_a after_o spiritual_a thing_n have_v not_o the_o save_v light_n of_o faith_n to_o conduct_v they_o have_v seduce_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n into_o all_o manner_n of_o superstition_n imagination_n and_o practice_n continue_v to_o do_v so_o at_o this_o day_n and_o wherever_o they_o will_v lead_v the_o way_n when_o faith_n go_v not_o before_o they_o to_o discover_v both_o way_n and_o end_n they_o that_o lead_v and_o the_o mind_n that_o be_v lead_v must_v fall_v into_o one_o snare_n and_o pit_n or_o another_o wherefore_o affection_n that_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v move_v not_o act_n not_o but_o as_o faith_n discover_v their_o object_n and_o direct_v they_o unto_o it_o it_o be_v faith_n that_o work_v by_o love_n we_o can_v love_v nothing_o sincere_o with_o divine_a love_n but_o what_o we_o believe_v save_o with_o divine_a faith_n let_v our_o affection_n unto_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v never_o so_o vehement_a if_o they_o spring_v not_o from_o faith_n if_o they_o be_v not_o guide_v by_o it_o they_o be_v neither_o accept_v with_o god_n nor_o will_v promote_v the_o interest_n of_o spirituality_n and_o holiness_n in_o our_o own_o soul_n heb._n 11.6_o mat._n 6.22_o 23._o and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n whence_o we_o oft_o time_n see_v great_a and_o plausible_a appearance_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n which_o yet_o endure_v only_o for_o a_o season_n they_o have_v be_v awaken_v excite_v act_v by_o one_o mean_n or_o another_o outward_a or_o inward_a but_o not_o have_v the_o light_n of_o faith_n to_o guide_v they_o unto_o their_o proper_a object_n they_o either_o wither_v and_o die_v as_o unto_o any_o appear_v of_o spiritual_a motion_n or_o else_o keep_v the_o mind_n toss_v up_o and_o down_o in_o perpetual_a disquietment_n without_o rest_n or_o peace_n the_o foolish_a man_n weary_v himself_o because_o he_o can_v find_v the_o way_n to_o the_o city_n so_o be_v it_o with_o they_o who_o on_o the_o account_n of_o their_o attendance_n unto_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n be_v call_v his_o disciple_n joh._n 6._o have_v preach_v unto_o they_o about_o the_o bread_n which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o give_v life_n unto_o they_o that_o feed_v they_o be_v great_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o cry_v out_o lord_n evermore_o give_v we_o of_o this_o bread_n v_o 34._o but_o when_o he_o proceed_v to_o declare_v the_o mystery_n of_o it_o they_o have_v not_o faith_n to_o discern_v and_o apprehend_v it_o their_o affection_n immediate_o decay_v and_o they_o forsake_v both_o he_o and_o his_o doctrine_n vers_fw-la 66._o we_o may_v consider_v one_o especial_a instance_n of_o this_o nature_n person_n every_o day_n fall_v under_o great_a and_o effectual_a conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o their_o danger_n or_o certain_a misery_n thereby_o this_o stir_v up_o and_o act_v all_o their_o affection_n especial_o their_o fear_n hope_n desire_n sorrow_n self-revenge_n according_a as_o their_o condition_n call_v for_o they_o hence_o sometime_o they_o grow_v restless_a in_o their_o complaint_n and_o turn_v themselves_o every_o way_n for_o relief_n like_o man_n that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n and_o bewilder_v in_o the_o night_n but_o in_o this_o state_n and_o condition_n tell_v they_o of_o the_o only_a proper_a way_n and_o mean_n of_o their_o relief_n which_o let_v the_o world_n say_v what_o it_o will_v be_v christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n alone_o with_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o they_o quick_o discover_v that_o they_o be_v strange_a thing_n unto_o they_o such_o as_o they_o do_v not_o understand_v nor_o indeed_o approve_v they_o can_v see_v they_o they_o can_v discern_v they_o nor_o any_o beauty_n in_o they_o for_o which_o they_o shall_v be_v desire_v wherefore_o after_o their_o affection_n have_v be_v toss_v up_o and_o down_o for_o a_o season_n under_o the_o power_n and_o torment_n of_o this_o conviction_n they_o come_v unto_o one_o or_o other_o of_o these_o issue_n with_o they_o for_o either_o they_o utter_o decay_v and_o the_o mind_n lose_v all_o sense_n of_o any_o impression_n from_o they_o so_o as_o that_o they_o wonder_v in_o themselves_o whence_o they_o be_v so_o foolish_a as_o to_o be_v toss_v and_o trouble_v with_o such_o melancholy_a fancy_n and_o so_o common_o prove_v as_o bad_a a_o sort_n of_o man_n as_o live_v upon_o the_o earth_n or_o they_o take_v up_o in_o a_o formal_a legal_a profession_n wherein_o they_o never_o attain_v to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n this_o be_v the_o best_a end_n that_o our_o affection_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n not_o guide_v by_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n do_v come_v unto_o second_o faith_n have_v a_o clear_a prospect_n into_o and_o apprehension_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n
〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n declare_v and_o practical_o improve_v by_o john_n owen_n d._n d._n rome_n 8.6_o to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n colos._n 3.2_o set_a your_o affection_n on_o thing_n above_o london_n print_v by_o j._n g._n for_o nathaniel_n ponder_n at_o the_o sign_n of_o the_o peacock_n in_o the_o poultry_n near_o the_o church_n 1681._o the_o preface_n i_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o give_v the_o reader_n a_o brief_a account_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o design_n of_o the_o plain_a ensue_a discourse_n which_o may_v both_o direct_v he_o in_o the_o read_n and_o be_v some_o kind_n of_o apology_n for_o myself_o in_o the_o publish_n of_o it_o he_o may_v therefore_o know_v that_o the_o thought_n here_o communicate_v be_v original_o private_a meditation_n for_o my_o own_o use_n in_o a_o season_n wherein_o i_o be_v every_o way_n unable_a to_o do_v any_o thing_n for_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o and_o far_o from_o expectation_n that_o ever_o i_o shall_v be_v so_o able_a any_o more_o in_o this_o world_n receive_v as_o i_o think_v some_o benefit_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o my_o own_o meditation_n therein_o when_o god_n be_v gracious_o please_v to_o restore_v a_o little_a strength_n unto_o i_o i_o insist_v on_o the_o same_o subject_a in_o the_o instruction_n of_o a_o private_a congregation_n and_o this_o i_o do_v partly_o out_o of_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o advantage_n i_o have_v receive_v myself_o by_o be_v conversant_a in_o they_o and_o partly_o from_o a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o duty_n direct_v and_o press_v unto_o in_o the_o whole_a discourse_n be_v seasonable_a from_o all_o sort_n of_o present_a circumstance_n to_o be_v declare_v and_o urge_v on_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n of_o professor_n for_o leave_v other_o unto_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o own_o method_n and_o design_n i_o acknowledge_v that_o these_o be_v the_o two_o thing_n whereby_o i_o regulate_v my_o work_n in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o my_o ministry_n to_o impart_v those_o truth_n of_o who_o power_n i_o hope_v i_o have_v have_v in_o some_o measure_n a_o real_a experience_n and_o to_o press_v those_o duty_n which_o present_a occasion_n temptation_n and_o other_o circumstance_n do_v render_v necessary_a to_o be_v attend_v unto_o in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n be_v the_o thing_n which_o i_o will_v principal_o apply_v myself_o unto_o in_o the_o work_n of_o teach_v other_o for_o as_o in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n in_o general_a the_o whole_a council_n of_o god_n concern_v the_o salvation_n of_o the_o church_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v to_o be_v declare_v so_o in_o particular_a we_o be_v not_o to_o fight_v uncertain_o as_o man_n beat_v the_o air_n nor_o shoot_v our_o arrow_n at_o random_n without_o a_o certain_a scope_n and_o design_n knowledge_n of_o the_o flock_n whereof_o we_o be_v overseer_n with_o a_o due_a consideration_n of_o their_o want_n their_o grace_n their_o temptation_n their_o light_n their_o strength_n and_o weakness_n be_v require_v herein_o and_o when_o in_o pursuance_n of_o that_o design_n the_o preparation_n of_o the_o word_n to_o be_v dispense_v proceed_v from_o zeal_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o compassion_n unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n when_o it_o be_v deliver_v with_o the_o demonstration_n of_o a_o due_a reverence_n unto_o god_n who_o word_n it_o be_v and_o of_o authority_n towards_o they_o unto_o who_o it_o be_v dispense_v with_o a_o deep_a sense_n of_o that_o great_a account_n which_o both_o they_o that_o preach_v and_o they_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n preach_v must_v short_o give_v before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o christ_n there_o may_v the_o a_o comfortable_a expectation_n of_o a_o bless_a issue_n of_o the_o whole_a work_n but_o my_o present_a design_n be_v only_o to_o declare_v in_o particular_a the_o reason_n why_o i_o judge_v the_o preach_a and_o publish_v of_o this_o small_a and_o plain_a discourse_n concen_v the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a not_o to_o be_v altogether_o unseasonable_a at_o this_o time_n in_o the_o present_a circumstance_n of_o of_o most_o christian_n and_o the_o first_o thing_n which_o i_o will_v observe_v unto_o this_o end_n be_v the_o present_a importunity_n of_o the_o world_n to_o impose_v itself_o on_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n and_o the_o various_a way_n of_o insinuation_n whereby_o it_o possess_v and_o fill_v they_o if_o it_o attain_v hereunto_o if_o it_o can_v fill_v the_o mind_n the_o thought_n and_o affection_n of_o man_n with_o itself_o it_o will_v in_o some_o fortify_v the_o soul_n against_o faith_n and_o obedience_n and_o in_o other_o weaken_v all_o grace_n and_o endanger_v eternal_a ruin_n for_o if_o we_o love_v the_o world_n the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n be_v not_o in_o we_o and_o when_o the_o world_n fill_v our_o thought_n it_o will_v entangle_v our_o affection_n and_o first_o the_o present_a state_n of_o all_o public_a affair_n in_o it_o with_o a_o apprehend_a concernment_n of_o private_a person_n therein_o continual_o exercise_v the_o thought_n of_o many_o and_o be_v almost_o the_o only_a subject_n of_o their_o mutual_a converse_n for_o the_o world_n be_v at_o present_a in_o a_o mighty_a hurry_n and_o be_v in_o many_o place_n cast_v off_o from_o all_o foundation_n of_o steadfastness_n it_o make_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n giddy_a with_o its_o revolution_n or_o disorderly_a in_o the_o expectation_n of_o they_o thought_n about_o these_o thing_n be_v both_o allowable_a and_o unavoidable_a if_o they_o take_v not_o the_o mind_n out_o of_o its_o own_o power_n by_o their_o multiplicity_n vehemency_n and_o urgency_n until_o it_o be_v unframe_v as_o unto_o spiritual_a thing_n retain_v neither_o room_n nor_o time_n for_o their_o entertainment_n hence_o man_n walk_v and_o talk_v as_o if_o the_o world_n be_v all_o when_o comparative_o it_o be_v nothing_o and_o when_o man_n come_v with_o their_o warm_a affection_n reek_v with_o thought_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o the_o performance_n of_o or_o attendance_n unto_o any_o spiritual_a duty_n it_o be_v very_o difficult_a for_o they_o if_o not_o impossible_a to_o stir_v up_o any_o grace_n unto_o a_o due_a and_o vigorous_a exercise_n unless_o this_o plausible_a advantage_n which_o the_o world_n have_v obtain_v of_o insinuate_a itself_o and_o its_o occasion_n into_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n so_o as_o to_o fill_v they_o and_o possess_v they_o be_v watch_v against_o and_o obviate_v so_o far_o at_o least_o as_o that_o it_o may_v not_o transform_v the_o mind_n into_o its_o own_o image_n and_o likeness_n this_o grace_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n which_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n can_v be_v attain_v nor_o keep_v unto_o its_o due_a exercise_n nor_o can_v we_o be_v any_o of_o we_o deliver_v from_o this_o snare_n at_o this_o season_n without_o a_o watchful_a endeavour_n to_o keep_v and_o preserve_v our_o mind_n in_o the_o constant_a contemplation_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a proceed_v from_o the_o prevalent_a adherence_n of_o our_o affection_n unto_o they_o as_o will_v appear_v in_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n again_o there_o be_v so_o great_a and_o pregnant_a evidence_n of_o the_o prevalency_n of_o a_o earthly_a worldly_a frame_n of_o spirit_n in_o many_o who_o make_v profession_n of_o religion_n that_o it_o be_v high_a time_n they_o be_v call_v unto_o a_o due_a consideration_n how_o unanswerable_a they_o be_v therein_o unto_o the_o power_n and_o spirituallity_n of_o that_o religion_n which_o they_o do_v profess_v there_o be_v no_o way_n whereby_o such_o a_o frame_n may_v be_v evince_v to_o prevail_v in_o many_o yea_o in_o the_o generality_n of_o such_o professior_n that_o be_v not_o manifest_a unto_o all_o in_o their_o habit_n attire_n and_o vestment_n in_o their_o usual_a converse_n and_o mispence_v of_o time_n in_o their_o over_o liberal_a entertainment_n of_o themselves_o and_o other_o unto_o the_o border_n of_o excess_n and_o sundry_a other_o thing_n of_o a_o a_o like_a nature_n there_o be_v in_o many_o such_o a_o conformity_n unto_o the_o world_n a_o thing_n severe_o forbid_v that_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o make_v a_o distinction_n between_o they_o and_o these_o thing_n do_v manifest_v such_o a_o predominancy_n of_o carnal_a affection_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n as_o whatever_o may_v be_v pretend_v unto_o the_o contrary_a be_v inconsistent_a with_o spiritual_a peace_n to_o call_v man_n off_o from_o this_o evil_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n to_o discover_v the_o sin_n and_o danger_n of_o it_o to_o direct_v they_o unto_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v effect_v to_o supply_v their_o thought_n and_o affection_n with_o better_a object_n to_o discover_v and_o press_v that_o excercise_n of_o they_o which_o be_v indispensible_o require_v of_o all_o believer_n if_o they_o design_v life_n and_o
distinct_o unto_o what_o be_v mention_v in_o the_o three_o place_n concern_v the_o complacency_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o what_o its_o affection_n be_v fix_v on_o for_o it_o will_v fall_v in_o with_o sundry_a other_o thing_n that_o be_v to_o be_v speak_v unto_o but_o before_o we_o do_v proceed_v it_o be_v not_o amiss_o as_o i_o suppose_v to_o put_v a_o remark_n upon_o those_o important_a truth_n which_o be_v direct_o contain_v in_o the_o word_n propose_v as_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o present_a discourse_n as_o 1._o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v the_o great_a distinguish_a character_n of_o true_a believer_n from_o all_o unregenerate_a person_n as_o such_o be_v it_o here_o assert_v by_o the_o apostle_n all_o those_o who_o be_v carnal_o mind_v who_o be_v in_o the_o flesh_n they_o be_v unregenerate_a they_o be_v not_o bear_v of_o god_n they_o please_v he_o not_o nor_o can_v do_v so_o but_o must_v perish_v for_o ever_o but_o those_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v bear_v of_o god_n do_v live_v unto_o he_o and_o shall_v come_v to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o hereon_o depend_v the_o trial_n and_o determination_n of_o what_o state_n we_o do_v belong_v unto_o 2._o where_o any_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v there_o and_o there_o alone_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n what_o these_o be_v wherein_o they_o do_v consist_v what_o be_v their_o excellency_n and_o pre-eminence_n above_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n how_o they_o be_v the_o effect_n and_o consequent_n of_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v shall_v be_v afterward_o declare_v there_o be_v neither_o of_o these_o consideration_n but_o be_v sufficient_a to_o demonstrate_v of_o how_o great_a concernment_n unto_o we_o it_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o diligent_o to_o inquire_v whether_o we_o be_v so_o or_o no._n it_o will_v therefore_o be_v no_o small_a advantage_n unto_o we_o to_o have_v our_o soul_n and_o conscience_n always_o affect_v with_o and_o in_o due_a subjection_n unto_o the_o power_n of_o this_o truth_n namely_o that_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v life_n and_o peace_n whence_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o whatever_o we_o may_v think_v otherwise_o if_o we_o be_v not_o so_o we_o have_v neither_o of_o they_o neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n it_o will_v i_o say_v be_v of_o use_n unto_o we_o if_o we_o be_v affect_v with_o the_o power_n of_o it_o for_o many_o great_o deceive_v themselves_o in_o hear_v the_o word_n they_o admit_v of_o sacred_a truth_n in_o their_o understanding_n and_o assent_v unto_o they_o but_o take_v not_o in_o the_o power_n of_o they_o on_o their_o conscience_n nor_o strict_o judge_v of_o their_o state_n and_o condition_n by_o they_o which_o prove_v their_o ruin_n for_o hereby_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o believe_v that_o whereof_o in_o truth_n they_o believe_v not_o one_o syllable_n as_o they_o ought_v they_o hear_v it_o they_o understand_v it_o in_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o they_o assent_n unto_o it_o at_o least_o they_o do_v not_o contradict_v it_o yea_o they_o commend_v it_o oftentimes_o and_o approve_v of_o it_o but_o yet_o they_o believe_v it_o not_o for_o if_o they_o do_v they_o will_v judge_v themselves_o by_o it_o and_o reckon_v on_o it_o that_o it_o will_v be_v with_o they_o at_o the_o last_o day_n according_a as_o thing_n be_v determine_v therein_o or_o such_o person_n be_v as_o the_o apostle_n james_n declare_v like_o a_o man_n behold_v his_o natural_a face_n in_o a_o glass_n for_o he_o behold_v himself_o and_o go_v his_o way_n and_o straightway_o forget_v what_o manner_n of_o man_n he_o be_v jam._n 1.23_o 24._o there_o be_v a_o representation_n make_v of_o they_o their_o state_n and_o condition_n unto_o they_o in_o the_o word_n they_o behold_v it_o and_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v even_o so_o with_o they_o as_o the_o word_n do_v declare_v but_o immediate_o their_o mind_n be_v fill_v with_o other_o thought_n act_v by_o other_o affection_n take_v up_o with_o other_o occasion_n and_o they_o forget_v in_o a_o moment_n the_o representation_n make_v of_o themselves_o and_o their_o condition_n wherefore_o all_o that_o i_o have_v to_o offer_v on_o this_o subject_n will_v be_v utter_o lose_v unless_o a_o firm_a persuasion_n hereof_o be_v fix_v on_o our_o mind_n unless_o we_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o it_o that_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v life_n and_o peace_n so_o that_o whatever_o our_o light_n and_o profession_n be_v our_o knowledge_n or_o our_o duty_n without_o this_o we_o have_v indeed_o no_o real_a interest_n in_o life_n and_o peace_n these_o thing_n be_v premise_v i_o shall_v more_o practical_o open_v the_o nature_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o what_o be_v require_v unto_o this_o frame_n of_o spirit_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v may_v be_v consider_v either_o as_o unto_o the_o nature_n and_o essence_n of_o it_o or_o as_o unto_o its_o degree_n for_o one_o may_v be_v so_o more_o than_o another_o or_o the_o same_o person_n may_v be_v more_o so_o at_o one_o time_n than_o another_o in_o the_o first_o way_n it_o be_v oppose_v unto_o be_v carnal_o mind_v in_o the_o other_o unto_o be_v earthly_a mind_v to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v be_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v death_n it_o be_v so_o every_o way_n and_o they_o who_o be_v so_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n this_o be_v oppose_v unto_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v as_o unto_o its_o nature_n or_o essence_n where_o a_o man_n as_o unto_o the_o substance_n and_o be_v of_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n intend_v be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v he_o be_v carnal_o mind_v that_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o death_n spiritual_a and_o obnoxious_a unto_o death_n eternal_a this_o be_v the_o principal_a foundation_n we_o proceed_v upon_o whence_o we_o demonstrate_v the_o indispensible_a necessity_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o mind_n inquire_v after_o there_o be_v two_o way_n wherein_o man_n be_v earthly-minded_n the_o one_o be_v absolute_a when_o the_o love_n of_o earthly_a thing_n be_v whole_o predominant_a in_o the_o mind_n this_o be_v not_o formal_o and_o proper_o to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v which_o be_v of_o a_o large_a extent_n the_o one_o denomination_n be_v from_o the_o root_n and_o principle_n namely_o the_o flesh_n the_o other_o from_o the_o object_n or_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o latter_a be_v a_o branch_n from_o the_o former_a as_o its_o root_n to_o be_v earthly_a mind_v be_v a_o operation_n and_o effect_n of_o the_o carnal_a mind_n in_o one_o especial_a way_n and_o instance_n and_o it_o be_v as_o exclusive_a of_o life_n and_o salvation_n as_o the_o carnal_a mind_n itself_o phil._n 3.19_o 1_o joh._n 2.16_o this_o therefore_o be_v oppose_v unto_o the_o be_v of_o spiritual_a mindedness_n no_o less_o than_o to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v be_v when_o there_o be_v in_o any_o a_o love_n of_o earthly_a thing_n that_o be_v predominant_a whence_o a_o person_n may_v be_v right_o denominate_v to_o be_v earthly_a mind_v he_o be_v not_o nor_o can_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v at_o all_o he_o have_v no_o interest_n in_o the_o frame_n of_o heart_n and_o spirit_n intend_v thereby_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v evident_o with_o the_o great_a part_n of_o they_o who_o be_v call_v christian_n in_o the_o world_n let_v they_o pretend_v what_o they_o will_v to_o the_o contrary_n again_o there_o be_v a_o be_v earthly-minded_n which_o consist_v in_o a_o inordinate_a affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n it_o be_v that_o which_o be_v sinful_a which_o ought_v to_o be_v mortify_v yet_o be_v it_o not_o absolute_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o substance_n and_o be_v of_o the_o grace_n inquire_v after_o some_o who_o be_v real_o and_o true_o spiritual_o mind_v yet_o may_v for_o a_o time_n at_o least_o be_v under_o such_o a_o inordinate_a affection_n unto_o and_o care_v about_o earthly_a thing_n that_o if_o not_o absolute_o yet_o comparative_o as_o unto_o what_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v and_o may_v be_v they_o may_v be_v just_o say_v to_o be_v earthly_a mind_v they_o be_v so_o in_o respect_n of_o those_o degree_n in_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v which_o they_o ought_v to_o aim_v at_o and_o may_v attain_v unto_o and_o where_o it_o be_v thus_o this_o grace_n can_v never_o thrive_v or_o flourish_v it_o can_v never_o advance_v unto_o any_o eminent_a degree_n this_o be_v the_o zoar_n of_o many_o professor_n that_o little_a one_o wherein_o they_o will_v be_v spare_v such_o a_o earthly-mindedness_a as_o be_v whole_o inconsistent_a with_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v as_o unto_o the_o state_n and_o condition_n which_o depend_v thereon_o they_o will_v avoid_v for_o this_o they_o know_v will_v be_v absolute_o exclusive_a of_o life_n and_o peace_n they_o can_v but_o know_v that_o such_o a_o frame_n be_v as_o inconsistent_a with_o salvation_n as_o live_v in_o the_o vile_a sin_n that_o any_o man_n can_v
contract_v the_o gild_n of_o there_o be_v more_o way_n of_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a death_n than_o one_o as_o well_o as_o of_o natural_a all_o that_o dye_n have_v not_o the_o plague_n and_o all_o that_o perish_v eternal_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o the_o same_o profligate_v sin_n the_o covetous_a be_v exclude_v from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n no_o less_o severe_o than_o fornicator_n idolater_n adulterer_n and_o thief_n 1_o cor._n 6.9_o 10._o but_o there_o be_v a_o degree_n in_o be_v earthly_a mind_v which_o they_o suppose_v their_o interest_n advantage_n relation_n and_o occasion_n of_o life_n do_v call_v for_o which_o they_o will_v be_v a_o little_a indulge_v in_o they_o may_v abide_v in_o such_o a_o frame_n without_o a_o disparagement_n of_o their_o profession_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v they_o have_v too_o many_o companion_n to_o fear_v a_o especial_a reflection_n on_o themselves_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o guilty_a take_v away_o the_o sense_n and_o shame_n of_o the_o gild_n but_o beside_o they_o hope_v well_o that_o it_o be_v not_o inconsistent_a absolute_o with_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v only_o they_o can_v well_o deny_v but_o that_o it_o be_v contrary_a unto_o such_o degree_n in_o that_o grace_n such_o thrive_a in_o that_o duty_n as_o be_v recommend_v unto_o they_o they_o think_v well_o of_o other_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o a_o eminent_a degree_n at_o least_o they_o do_v so_o as_o unto_o the_o thing_n itself_o in_o general_a for_o when_o they_o come_v unto_o particular_a instance_n of_o this_o or_o that_o man_n for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o esteem_v what_o be_v beyond_o their_o own_o measure_n to_o be_v little_o better_a than_o pretence_n but_o in_o general_a to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o a_o eminent_a degree_n they_o can_v but_o esteem_v it_o a_o thing_n excellent_a and_o desirable_a but_o it_o be_v for_o they_o who_o be_v more_o at_o leisure_n than_o they_o be_v their_o circumstance_n and_o occasion_n require_v they_o to_o satisfy_v themselves_o with_o a_o inferior_a measure_n to_o obviate_v such_o pretence_n i_o shall_v insist_v on_o nothing_o in_o the_o declaration_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o the_o necessity_n of_o it_o but_o what_o be_v incumbent_n on_o all_o that_o believe_v and_o without_o which_o they_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o assure_v their_o conscience_n before_o god_n and_o at_o present_a in_o general_n i_o shall_v say_v whoever_o he_o be_v who_o do_v not_o sincere_o aim_v at_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v which_o the_o mean_v he_o enjoy_v will_v lead_v he_o unto_o and_o which_o the_o light_n he_o have_v receive_v do_v call_v for_o who_o judge_v it_o necessary_a unto_o his_o present_a advantage_n occasion_n and_o circumstance_n to_o rest_v in_o such_o measure_n or_o degree_n of_o it_o as_o he_o can_v but_o know_v that_o they_o come_v short_a of_o what_o he_o ought_v to_o aim_v at_o and_o so_o do_v not_o endeavour_v after_o compleatness_n in_o the_o will_n of_o god_n herein_o can_v have_v no_o satisfaction_n in_o his_o own_o mind_n have_v no_o unfailing_a ground_n whereon_o to_o believe_v that_o he_o have_v any_o thing_n at_o all_o of_o the_o reality_n of_o this_o grace_n in_o he_o such_o a_o person_n possible_o may_v have_v life_n which_o accompany_v the_o essence_n of_o this_o grace_n but_o he_o can_v have_v peace_n which_o follow_v on_o its_o degree_n in_o a_o due_a improvement_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o far_o the_o great_a number_n of_o they_o who_o satisfy_v themselves_o in_o this_o apprehension_n willing_o neglect_v a_o endeavour_n after_o the_o further_a degree_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o growth_n in_o this_o duty_n which_o their_o light_n or_o conviction_n and_o the_o mean_n they_o enjoy_v do_v suggest_v unto_o they_o be_v indeed_o carnal_o mind_v and_o every_o way_n obnoxious_a unto_o death_n chap._n ii_o a_o particular_a account_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v how_o it_o be_v state_v in_o and_o evidence_v by_o our_o thought_n have_v state_v the_o general_a concernment_n of_o that_o frame_n of_o mind_n which_o be_v here_o recommend_v unto_o we_o we_o may_v proceed_v to_o inquire_v more_o particular_o into_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o according_a unto_o the_o description_n before_o give_v in_o distinct_a proposition_n and_o we_o shall_v carry_v on_o both_o these_o intention_n together_o first_o to_o show_v what_o it_o be_v and_o wherein_o it_o do_v consist_v and_o then_o how_o it_o do_v evidence_n itself_o so_o as_o that_o we_o may_v frame_v a_o right_a judgement_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o we_o or_o no._n and_o we_o shall_v have_v no_o regard_n unto_o they_o who_o either_o neglect_n or_o despise_v these_o thing_n on_o any_o pretence_n whatever_o for_o this_o be_v the_o word_n according_a unto_o which_o we_o shall_v all_o short_o be_v judge_v to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v be_v death_n but_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v life_n and_o peace_n thought_n and_o meditation_n as_o proceed_v from_o spiritual_a affection_n be_v the_o first_o thing_n wherein_o this_o spiritual_a mindedness_n do_v consist_v and_o whereby_o it_o do_v evidence_n itself_o our_o thought_n be_v like_o the_o blossom_n on_o a_o tree_n in_o the_o spring_n you_o may_v see_v a_o tree_n in_o the_o spring_n all_o cover_v with_o blossom_n that_o nothing_o else_o of_o it_o appear_v multitude_n of_o they_o fall_v off_o and_o come_v to_o nothing_o ofttime_n where_o there_o be_v most_o blossom_n there_o be_v least_o fruit_n but_o yet_o there_o be_v no_o fruit_n be_v it_o of_o what_o sort_n it_o will_v good_a or_o bad_a but_o it_o come_v in_o and_o from_o some_o of_o those_o blossom_n the_o mind_n of_o man_n be_v cover_v with_o thought_n as_o a_o tree_n with_o blossom_n most_o of_o they_o fall_v off_o vanish_z and_o come_v to_o nothing_o end_n in_o vanity_n and_o sometime_o where_o the_o mind_n do_v most_o abound_v with_o they_o there_o be_v the_o least_o fruit_n the_o sap_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v waste_v and_o consume_v in_o they_o howbeit_o there_o be_v no_o fruit_n which_o actual_o we_o bring_v forth_o be_v it_o good_a or_o bad_a but_o it_o proceed_v from_o some_o of_o these_o thought_n wherefore_o ordinary_o these_o give_v the_o best_a and_o sure_a measure_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o man_n mind_n as_o a_o man_n think_v in_o his_o heart_n so_o be_v he_o pro._n 23.7_o in_o case_n of_o strong_a or_o violent_a temptation_n the_o real_a frame_n of_o a_o man_n heart_n be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v by_o the_o multiplicity_n of_o thought_n about_o any_o object_n for_o whether_o they_o be_v from_o satan_n suggestion_n or_o from_o inward_a darkness_n trouble_n and_o horror_n they_o will_v impose_v such_o a_o continual_a sense_n of_o themselves_o on_o the_o mind_n as_o shall_v engage_v all_o its_o thought_n about_o they_o as_o when_o a_o man_n be_v in_o a_o storm_n at_o sea_n the_o current_n of_o his_o thought_n run_v quite_o another_o way_n than_o when_o he_o be_v in_o safety_n about_o his_o occasion_n but_o ordinary_o voluntary_a thought_n be_v the_o best_a measure_n and_o indication_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o our_o mind_n as_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o soil_n be_v judge_v by_o the_o grass_n which_o it_o bring_v forth_o so_o may_v the_o disposition_n of_o the_o heart_n by_o the_o predominancy_n of_o voluntary_a thought_n they_o be_v the_o original_n act_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o way_n whereby_o the_o heart_n put_v forth_o and_o empty_v the_o treasure_n that_o be_v in_o it_o the_o water_n that_o first_o rise_v and_o flow_v from_o the_o fountain_n every_o man_n heart_n be_v his_o treasury_n and_o the_o treasure_n that_o be_v in_o it_o be_v either_o good_a or_o evil_a as_o our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o there_o be_v a_o good_a and_o bad_a treasure_n of_o the_o heart_n but_o whatever_o a_o man_n have_v be_v it_o good_a or_o evil_n there_o it_o be_v this_o treasure_n be_v open_v empty_v and_o spend_v itself_o continual_o though_o it_o can_v never_o be_v exhaust_v for_o it_o have_v a_o fountain_n in_o nature_n or_o grace_n which_o no_o expense_n can_v diminish_v yea_o it_o increase_v and_o get_v strength_n by_o it_o the_o more_o you_o spend_v of_o the_o treasure_n of_o your_o heart_n in_o any_o kind_n the_o more_o will_v you_o abound_v in_o treasure_n of_o the_o same_o kind_n whether_o it_o be_v good_a or_o evil_a it_o grow_v by_o expense_n and_o exercise_n and_o the_o principal_a way_n whereby_o it_o put_v forth_o itself_o be_v by_o the_o thought_n of_o the_o mind_n if_o the_o heart_n be_v evil_a they_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n vain_a filthy_a corrupt_a wicked_a foolish_a if_o it_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o grace_n and_o so_o have_v a_o good_a treasure_n in_o it_o it_o put_v forth_o itself_o by_o thought_n suitable_a unto_o its_o
most_o earnest_o to_o be_v desire_v or_o avoid_v herein_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o strive_v with_o all_o their_o might_n to_o endeavour_v to_o go_v run_v or_o contend_v but_o all_o in_o vain_a every_o thing_n fail_v they_o and_o they_o be_v not_o relieve_v until_o they_o be_v awake_v so_o such_o person_n in_o impression_n they_o receive_v from_o the_o word_n seem_v to_o strive_v and_o contend_v in_o their_o thought_n and_o resolution_n to_o comply_v with_o what_o be_v propose_v unto_o they_o but_o their_o strength_n fail_v they_o find_v no_o success_n for_o want_v of_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o after_o a_o time_n give_v over_o their_o endeavour_n until_o they_o be_v occasional_o renew_v again_o now_o the_o thought_n which_o in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n do_v proceed_v from_o a_o inward_a principle_n of_o grace_n excite_v unto_o its_o due_a exercise_n be_v distinguishable_a from_o they_o which_o be_v only_o occasional_o suggest_v unto_o the_o mind_n by_o the_o word_n outward_o preach_v for_o 1._o they_o be_v especial_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n towards_o the_o thing_n themselves_o that_o be_v preach_v they_o belong_v unto_o our_o receive_v the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n thereof_o and_o love_n respect_v the_o goodness_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o and_o not_o mere_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o proposition_n wherein_o they_o be_v express_v the_o other_o thought_n be_v only_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o mind_n as_o affect_v with_o light_n and_o truth_n without_o any_o cordial_a love_n unto_o the_o thing_n themselves_o 2._o they_o be_v accompany_v with_o complacency_n of_o soul_n arise_v from_o love_n experience_n more_o or_o less_o of_o the_o power_n of_o they_o and_o their_o suitableness_n unto_o the_o new_a nature_n or_o principle_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o for_o when_o our_o mind_n find_v that_o so_o indeed_o it_o be_v in_o we_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o word_n that_o this_o be_v that_o which_o we_o will_v be_v more_o conformable_a unto_o it_o give_v a_o secret_a complacency_n with_o satisfaction_n unto_o the_o soul._n the_o other_o thought_n which_o be_v only_o occasional_a have_v none_o of_o these_o concomitant_n or_o effect_n but_o be_v dry_a and_o barren_a unless_o it_o be_v in_o a_o few_o word_n or_o transient_a discourse_n 3._o the_o former_a be_v mean_n of_o spiritual_a growth_n so_o some_o say_v the_o natural_a growth_n of_o vegetable_n be_v not_o by_o insensible_a motion_n but_o by_o gust_n and_o sensible_a eruption_n of_o increase_n these_o be_v both_o in_o spiritual_a growth_n and_o the_o late_a consist_v much_o in_o those_o thought_n which_o the_o principle_n of_o the_o new_a nature_n be_v excite_v unto_o by_o the_o word_n in_o the_o latter_a 2._o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n be_v another_o mean_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n one_o principal_a end_n of_o it_o be_v to_o excite_v stir_v up_o and_o draw_v forth_o the_o principle_n of_o grace_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o heart_n unto_o a_o due_a exercise_n in_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n with_o affection_n suitable_a unto_o they_o those_o who_o design_v not_o this_o end_n in_o prayer_n know_v not_o at_o all_o what_o it_o be_v to_o pray_v now_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n have_v frequent_a occasion_n to_o join_v with_o other_o in_o prayer_n and_o many_o be_v under_o the_o conviction_n that_o it_o be_v their_o own_o duty_n to_o pray_v every_o day_n it_o may_v be_v in_o their_o family_n and_o otherwise_o and_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o conceive_v how_o man_n can_v constant_o join_v with_o other_o in_o prayer_n much_o more_o how_o they_o can_v pray_v themselves_o but_o that_o they_o must_v have_v thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n every_o day_n howbeit_o it_o be_v possible_a that_o they_o may_v have_v no_o root_n or_o live_a spring_n of_o they_o in_o themselves_o but_o they_o be_v only_o occasional_a impression_n on_o their_o mind_n from_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n i_o shall_v give_v some_o instance_n of_o the_o ground_n hereof_o which_o on_o many_o reason_n require_v our_o diligent_a consideration_n spiritual_a thought_n may_v be_v raise_v in_o a_o person_n in_o his_o own_o duty_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o gift_n when_o there_o be_v no_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o at_o all_o for_o they_o lead_v and_o guide_v the_o mind_n unto_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v the_o matter_n of_o prayer_n that_o be_v spiritual_a thing_n gift_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o spiritual_a improvement_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n or_o ability_n and_o a_o man_n can_v speak_v or_o utter_v any_o thing_n but_o what_o proceed_v from_o his_o rational_a faculty_n by_o invention_n or_o memory_n or_o both_o manage_v in_o and_o by_o his_o thought_n unless_o he_o speak_v by_o rote_n and_o that_o which_o be_v not_o rational_a what_o therefore_o proceed_v from_o a_o man_n rational_a faculty_n in_o and_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o gift_n that_o his_o thought_n must_v be_v exercise_v about_o a_o man_n may_v read_v a_o long_a prayer_n that_o express_v spiritual_a thing_n and_o yet_o never_o have_v one_o spiritual_a thought_n arise_v in_o his_o mind_n about_o they_o for_o there_o be_v no_o exercise_n of_o any_o faculty_n of_o his_o mind_n require_v unto_o such_o read_n but_o only_o to_o attend_v unto_o the_o word_n that_o be_v to_o be_v read_v this_o i_o say_v may_v be_v so_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o it_o be_v always_o so_o or_o that_o it_o must_v be_v so_o but_o as_o be_v say_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o gift_n it_o be_v impossible_a but_o there_o must_v be_v a_o exercise_n of_o reason_n by_o invention_n judgement_n and_o memory_n and_o consequent_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n yet_o may_v they_o all_o be_v mere_o occasional_a from_o the_o present_a external_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n without_o any_o live_a spring_n or_o exercise_v of_o grace_n in_o such_o a_o course_n may_v man_n of_o tolerable_a gift_n continue_v all_o their_o day_n unto_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o themselves_o and_o other_o deceive_v both_o they_o and_o their_o own_o soul_n this_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o scripture_n and_o experience_n a_o enquiry_n may_v be_v make_v thereon_o as_o unto_o our_o own_o concernment_n in_o these_o thing_n especial_o of_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v spiritual_a gift_n of_o their_o own_o and_o of_o they_o also_o in_o some_o degree_n who_o usual_o enjoy_v the_o gift_n of_o other_o in_o this_o duty_n for_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v how_o we_o shall_v know_v whether_o the_o thought_n which_o we_o have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o and_o upon_o prayer_n do_v arise_v from_o gift_n only_o those_o of_o our_o own_o or_o other_o man_n give_v occasion_n unto_o they_o or_o be_v influence_v from_o a_o live_a principle_n and_o spring_n of_o grace_n in_o our_o heart_n a_o case_n this_o be_v however_o by_o some_o it_o may_v be_v apprehend_v of_o great_a importance_n and_o which_o will_v require_v much_o time_n full_o to_o resolve_v for_o there_o be_v nothing_o whereby_o the_o refine_a sort_n of_o hypocrite_n do_v more_o deceive_v themselves_o and_o other_o nothing_o whereby_o some_o man_n do_v give_v themselves_o more_o countenance_n in_o a_o indulgence_n unto_o their_o lust_n than_o by_o this_o part_n of_o the_o form_n of_o godliness_n when_o they_o deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o and_o beside_o it_o be_v that_o wherein_o the_o best_a of_o believer_n ought_v to_o keep_v a_o diligent_a watch_n over_o themselves_o in_o every_o particular_a instance_n of_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n with_o respect_n hereunto_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n be_v they_o to_o watch_v unto_o prayer_n if_o they_o be_v at_o any_o time_n negligent_a herein_o they_o may_v rest_v in_o a_o bare_a exercise_n of_o gift_n when_o on_o a_o due_a examination_n and_o trial_n they_o have_v no_o evidence_n of_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o what_o they_o have_v do_v i_o shall_v therefore_o with_o what_o brevity_n i_o can_v give_v a_o resolution_n unto_o this_o enquiry_n and_o to_o this_o end_n observe_v 1._o it_o be_v a_o ancient_a complaint_n that_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v fill_v with_o great_a obscurity_n and_o difficulty_n and_o it_o be_v true_a not_o that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o thing_n in_o themselves_o for_o they_o all_o come_v forth_o from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n and_o be_v full_a of_o light_n order_n beauty_n and_o wisdom_n and_o light_n and_o order_n be_v the_o only_a mean_n whereby_o any_o thing_n make_v a_o discovery_n of_o itself_o but_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o darkness_n and_o difficulty_n in_o these_o thing_n lie_v in_o ourselves_o we_o can_v more_o clear_o and_o steady_o see_v and_o behold_v the_o moon_n and_o the_o star_n than_o we_o can_v the_o sun_n when_o it_o shine_v in_o its_o great_a lustre_n it_o be_v not_o because_o there_o be_v more_o light_n
in_o the_o moon_n and_o star_n than_o in_o the_o sun_n but_o because_o the_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n be_v great_a than_o our_o visive_a faculty_n can_v direct_o bear_v and_o behold_v so_o we_o can_v more_o clear_o discover_v the_o truth_n and_o distinct_a nature_n of_o thing_n moral_a and_o natural_a than_o we_o can_v of_o thing_n that_o be_v heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a see_v john_n 3.14_o not_o that_o there_o be_v more_o substance_n or_o reality_n in_o they_o but_o because_o the_o ability_n of_o our_o understanding_n be_v more_o suit_v unto_o the_o comprehension_n of_o they_o the_o other_o be_v above_o we_o we_o know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o our_o mind_n be_v liable_a to_o be_v hinder_v and_o disorder_v in_o their_o apprehension_n of_o thing_n heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a by_o ignorance_n temptation_n and_o prejudices_fw-la of_o all_o sort_n in_o nothing_o more_o be_v man_n subject_a unto_o mistake_n than_o in_o the_o application_n of_o thing_n unto_o themselves_o and_o a_o judgement_n of_o their_o interest_n in_o they_o fear_v self-love_n with_o the_o prevalency_n of_o temptation_n and_o corruption_n do_v all_o engage_v their_o power_n to_o darken_v the_o light_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o to_o pervert_v its_o judgement_n in_o no_o case_n do_v the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n or_o of_o sin_n which_o be_v all_o one_o more_o act_n itself_o hence_o multitude_n say_v peace_n to_o themselves_o to_o who_o god_n do_v not_o speak_v peace_n and_o some_o who_o be_v child_n of_o light_n do_v yet_o walk_v in_o darkness_n hence_o be_v that_o fervent_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n for_o help_v in_o this_o case_n ephes._n 1.16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o there_o be_v also_o a_o great_a similitude_n between_o temporary_a faith_n and_o that_o which_o be_v save_v and_o durable_a and_o between_o gift_n and_o grace_n in_o their_o operation_n which_o be_v that_o that_o be_v under_o present_a consideration_n it_o be_v acknowledge_v therefore_o that_o without_o the_o especial_a light_n and_o conduct_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n no_o man_n can_v make_v such_o a_o judgement_n of_o his_o state_n and_o his_o action_n as_o shall_v be_v a_o stable_a foundation_n of_o give_v glory_n to_o god_n and_o of_o obtain_v peace_n unto_o his_o own_o soul._n and_o therefore_o the_o great_a part_n of_o mankind_n do_v constant_o deceive_v themselves_o in_o these_o thing_n but_o ordinary_o under_o this_o bless_a conduct_n in_o the_o search_n of_o ourselves_o and_o the_o concernment_n of_o our_o duty_n we_o may_v come_v unto_o a_o satisfaction_n whether_o they_o be_v influence_v by_o faith_n and_o have_v grace_n exercise_v in_o they_o especial_o this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n or_o whether_o it_o derive_v from_o the_o power_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n raise_v by_o light_n and_o spiritual_a gift_n only_o and_o so_o whether_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n therein_o do_v spring_n from_o a_o vital_a principle_n of_o grace_n or_o whether_o they_o come_v from_o occasional_a impression_n on_o the_o mind_n by_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n itself_o if_o man_n be_v willing_a to_o deceive_v themselves_o or_o to_o hide_v themselves_o from_o themselves_o to_o walk_v with_o god_n at_o all_o per_fw-la adventure_n to_o leave_v all_o thing_n at_o hazard_n to_o put_v off_o all_o trial_n unto_o that_o at_o the_o last_o day_n and_o so_o never_o call_v themselves_o unto_o a_o account_n as_o unto_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o duty_n in_o any_o particular_a instance_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v make_v any_o distinction_n in_o this_o matter_n as_o unto_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o their_o thought_n in_o spiritual_a duty_n two_o thing_n be_v require_v hereunto_o 1._o that_o we_o impartial_o and_o severe_o examine_v and_o try_v the_o frames_n and_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o holy_a duty_n by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o thereon_o not_o be_v afraid_a to_o speak_v that_o plain_o unto_o our_o soul_n which_o the_o word_n speak_v unto_o we_o this_o diligent_a search_n ought_v to_o respect_v our_o principle_n aim_n end_n act_n with_o the_o whole_a deportment_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o every_o duty_n see_v 2_o cor._n 13.5_o if_o a_o man_n receive_v much_o money_n and_o look_v only_o on_o the_o outward_a form_n and_o superscription_n when_o he_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v great_a store_n of_o currant_n coin_n in_o gold_n and_o silver_n he_o may_v have_v only_a heap_n of_o lead_n or_o copper_n by_o he_o but_o he_o that_o trade_v in_o it_o as_o the_o comfort_n and_o support_v of_o his_o natural_a life_n and_o condition_n he_o will_v try_v what_o he_o receive_v both_o by_o the_o balance_n and_o the_o touchstone_n as_o the_o occasion_n require_v especial_o if_o it_o be_v in_o a_o time_n when_o much_o adulterate_v coin_n be_v passant_a in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o a_o man_n reckon_v on_o his_o duty_n by_o tale_n and_o number_n he_o may_v be_v utter_o deceive_v and_o be_v spiritual_o poor_a and_o a_o bankrupt_a when_o he_o esteem_v himself_o rich_a increase_v in_o good_n and_o want_v nothing_o some_o duty_n may_v appear_o hold_v in_o the_o balance_n as_o to_o weight_n which_o will_v not_o hold_v it_o at_o the_o touchstone_n as_o to_o worth_n both_o mean_n be_v to_o be_v use_v if_o we_o will_v not_o be_v mistake_v in_o our_o account_n thus_o god_n himself_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o multitude_n of_o duty_n call_v the_o people_n to_o try_v and_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o be_v such_o as_o have_v faith_n and_o grace_n in_o they_o and_o so_o like_a to_o have_v acceptance_n with_o he_o isa._n 58.2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o 2._o add_v we_o must_v unto_o our_o own_o diligent_a enquiry_n fervent_a prayer_n unto_o god_n that_o he_o will_v search_v and_o try_v we_o as_o unto_o our_o sincerity_n and_o discover_v unto_o we_o the_o true_a frame_n of_o our_o heart_n hereof_o we_o have_v a_o express_a example_n psal._n 139.23_o 24._o search_v i_o o_o god_n and_o know_v my_o heart_n try_v i_o and_o know_v my_o thought_n and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v any_o wicked_a way_n in_o i_o and_o lead_v i_o in_o the_o way_n everlasting_a this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v have_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n witness_v unto_o our_o sincerity_n with_o our_o own_o spirit_n there_o be_v need_n of_o call_v in_o divine_a assistance_n in_o this_o matter_n both_o from_o the_o importance_n of_o it_o and_o from_o its_o difficulty_n god_n alone_o know_v full_o and_o perfect_o what_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n i_o no_o way_n doubt_v but_o that_o in_o the_o impartial_a use_n of_o these_o mean_n a_o man_n may_v come_v to_o assure_a satisfaction_n in_o his_o own_o mind_n such_o as_o wherein_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v deceive_v whether_o he_o do_v animate_v and_o quicken_v his_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o duty_n with_o inward_a vital_a grace_n or_o whether_o they_o be_v impression_n on_o his_o mind_n by_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o duty_n a_o duty_n this_o be_v of_o great_a importance_n and_o necessity_n now_o hypocrisy_n have_v make_v so_o great_a a_o inroad_a on_o profession_n and_o gift_n have_v doflowred_a grace_n in_o its_o principal_a operation_n no_o person_n be_v in_o great_a danger_n of_o walk_v at_o hazard_n with_o god_n than_o those_o who_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n in_o duty_n unto_o their_o own_o satisfaction_n and_o other_o for_o they_o may_v countenance_v themselves_o with_o a_o appearance_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o they_o in_o reality_n and_o power_n when_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o it_o in_o they_o and_o so_o it_o have_v fall_v out_o we_o have_v see_v many_o earnest_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o gift_n who_o have_v turn_v vile_a and_o debauch_a apostate_n some_o have_v be_v know_v to_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o a_o indulgence_n of_o their_o lust_n and_o yet_o to_o abide_v constant_a in_o their_o duty_n isa._n 1.15_o and_o we_o may_v hear_v prayer_n sometime_o that_o open_o discover_v themselves_o unto_o spiritual_a sense_n to_o be_v the_o labour_n of_o the_o brain_n by_o the_o help_n of_o gift_n in_o memory_n and_o invention_n without_o a_o evidence_n of_o any_o mixture_n of_o humility_n reverence_n or_o godly_a fear_n without_o any_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n they_o flow_v as_o wine_n yet_o smell_v and_o taste_v of_o the_o unsavoury_a cask_n from_o whence_o they_o proceed_v it_o be_v necessary_a therefore_o that_o we_o shall_v put_v ourselves_o on_o the_o severe_a trial_n lest_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v not_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o spiritual_a duty_n gift_n be_v gracious_a vouchsafement_n of_o christ_n to_o make_v grace_n useful_a unto_o ourselves_o and_o other_o yea_o they_o may_v make_v they_o useful_a unto_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o who_o have_v no_o grace_n in_o themselves_o but_o as_o
unto_o our_o own_o soul_n they_o be_v of_o no_o other_o advantage_n or_o benefit_n but_o to_o stir_v up_o grace_n unto_o its_o proper_a exercise_n and_o to_o be_v a_o vehicle_n to_o carry_v it_o on_o in_o its_o proper_a use_n if_o we_o do_v not_o always_o regard_v this_o in_o their_o exercise_n we_o have_v better_o be_v without_o they_o if_o instead_o hereof_o they_o once_o begin_v to_o impose_v themselves_o practical_o upon_o we_o so_o as_o that_o we_o rest_v in_o spiritual_a light_n act_v our_o invention_n memory_n and_o judgement_n with_o a_o ready_a utterance_n or_o such_o as_o it_o be_v there_o be_v no_o form_n of_o prayer_n can_v be_v more_o prejudicial_a unto_o our_o soul_n as_o wine_n if_o take_v moderate_o and_o seasonable_o help_v the_o stomach_n in_o digestion_n and_o quicken_v the_o natural_a spirit_n enable_v the_o power_n of_o nature_n unto_o their_o duty_n be_v useful_a and_o helpful_a unto_o it_o but_o if_o it_o be_v take_v in_o excess_n it_o do_v not_o help_v nature_n but_o oppress_v it_o and_o take_v on_o itself_o to_o do_v what_o nature_n shall_v be_v assist_v unto_o it_o fill_v man_n carcase_n with_o disease_n as_o well_o as_o their_o soul_n with_o sin_n so_o while_o spiritual_a gift_n be_v use_v and_o employ_v only_o to_o excite_v aid_n and_o assist_v grace_n in_o its_o operation_n they_o be_v unutterable_o useful_a but_o if_o they_o put_v themselves_o in_o the_o room_n thereof_o to_o do_v all_o that_o grace_n shall_v do_v they_o be_v hurtful_a and_o pernicious_a we_o have_v need_v therefore_o to_o be_v very_o diligent_a in_o this_o enquiry_n whether_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n even_o in_o our_o prayer_n be_v not_o rather_o occasion_v from_o the_o duty_n than_o spring_n from_o a_o gracious_a principle_n in_o our_o heart_n or_o be_v the_o act_n of_o real_a save_a grace_n 2._o where_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o prayer_n be_v occasional_a only_o in_o the_o way_n before_o describe_v such_o prayer_n will_v not_o be_v a_o mean_n of_o spiritual_a growth_n unto_o the_o soul._n they_o will_v not_o make_v the_o soul_n humble_a holy_a watchful_a and_o diligent_a in_o universal_a obedience_n grace_n will_v not_o thrive_v under_o the_o great_a constancy_n in_o such_o duty_n it_o be_v a_o astonish_a thing_n to_o see_v how_o under_o frequency_n of_o prayer_n and_o a_o seem_a fervency_n therein_o many_o of_o we_o be_v at_o a_o stand_n as_o to_o visible_a thrive_a in_o the_o fruit_n of_o grace_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v without_o any_o increase_n of_o strength_n in_o the_o root_n of_o it_o god_n hand_n be_v not_o shorten_v that_o he_o can_v save_v nor_o his_o ear_n deafen_a that_o he_o can_v hear_v he_o be_v the_o same_o as_o in_o the_o day_n of_o old_a when_o our_o father_n cry_v unto_o he_o and_o be_v deliver_v when_o they_o trust_v in_o he_o and_o be_v not_o confound_v jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o same_o yesterday_o and_o to_o day_n and_o for_o ever_o prayer_n be_v the_o same_o that_o it_o be_v and_o shall_v lose_v nothing_o of_o its_o prevalency_n while_o this_o world_n endure_v whence_o be_v it_o then_o that_o there_o be_v so_o much_o prayer_n among_o we_o and_o so_o little_a success_n i_o speak_v not_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o outward_a dispensation_n of_o divine_a providence_n in_o affliction_n or_o persecution_n wherein_o god_n always_o act_n in_o a_o way_n of_o sovereignty_n and_o ofttimes_o give_v the_o most_o useful_a answer_n unto_o our_o prayer_n by_o deny_v our_o request_n i_o intend_v that_o only_o whereof_o the_o psalmist_n give_v we_o his_o experience_n psal._n 138.3_o in_o the_o day_n when_o i_o cry_v thou_o answer_v i_o and_o strengthn_v i_o with_o strength_n in_o my_o soul._n where_o prayer_n be_v effectual_a they_o will_v bring_v in_o spiritual_a strength_n but_o the_o prayer_n of_o many_o seem_v to_o be_v very_o spiritual_a and_o to_o express_v all_o conceivable_a supply_n of_o grace_n and_o they_o be_v persist_v in_o with_o constancy_n and_o god_n forbid_v we_o shall_v judge_v they_o to_o be_v hypocritical_a and_o whole_o insincere_a yet_o be_v there_o a_o defect_n somewhere_o which_o shall_v be_v inquire_v after_o for_o they_o be_v not_o so_o answer_v as_o that_o they_o who_o pray_v they_o be_v strengthen_v with_o strength_n in_o their_o soul_n there_o be_v not_o that_o spiritual_a thrive_a that_o growth_n in_o grace_n which_o may_v be_v expect_v to_o accompany_v such_o supplication_n i_o know_v that_o a_o man_n may_v pray_v often_o pray_v sincere_o and_o frequent_o for_o a_o especial_a mercy_n grace_n or_o deliverance_n from_o a_o particular_a temptation_n and_o yet_o no_o spiritual_a supply_n of_o strength_n unto_o his_o own_o experience_n come_v in_o thereby_o so_o paul_n pray_v thrice_o for_o the_o removal_n of_o his_o temptation_n and_o yet_o have_v the_o exercise_n of_o it_o continue_v in_o such_o a_o case_n there_o may_v be_v no_o defect_n in_o prayer_n and_o yet_o the_o grace_n in_o particular_a aim_v at_o not_o be_v attain_v for_o god_n have_v other_o holy_a end_n to_o accomplish_v hereby_o on_o the_o soul_n but_o how_o person_n shall_v continue_v in_o prayer_n in_o general_a according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o can_v be_v outward_o discover_v and_o yet_o thrive_v not_o at_o all_o as_o unto_o spiritual_a strength_n in_o their_o soul_n be_v hard_o to_o be_v understand_v and_o which_o be_v yet_o more_o astonishable_a man_n abide_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o that_o in_o constancy_n in_o their_o family_n and_o otherwise_o and_o yet_o live_v in_o know_a sin_n whatever_o spiritual_a thought_n such_o man_n have_v in_o and_o by_o their_o prayer_n they_o be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v shall_v we_o now_o say_v that_o all_o such_o person_n be_v gross_a hypocrite_n such_o as_o know_v they_o do_v but_o mock_v god_n and_o man_n know_v that_o they_o have_v not_o desire_v nor_o aim_n after_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o mention_v in_o their_o own_o prayer_n but_o do_v these_o thing_n either_o for_o some_o corrupt_a end_n or_o at_o best_a to_o satisfy_v their_o conviction_n can_v we_o thus_o resolve_v the_o whole_a difficulty_n of_o the_o case_n be_v take_v off_o for_o such_o double_a mind_a man_n have_v no_o reason_n to_o think_v that_o they_o shall_v receive_v any_o thing_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o james_n speak_v chap._n 1.7_o indeed_o they_o do_v not_o they_o never_o act_n faith_n with_o reference_n unto_o their_o own_o prayer_n but_o it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o all_o of_o this_o sort_n some_o judge_n themselves_o sincere_a and_o in_o good_a earnest_n in_o their_o prayer_n not_o without_o some_o hope_n and_o expectation_n of_o success_n i_o will_v not_o say_v of_o all_o such_o person_n that_o they_o be_v among_o the_o number_n of_o they_o concern_v who_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n say_v because_o i_o call_v unto_o they_o and_o they_o refuse_v they_o shall_v call_v on_o i_o but_o i_o will_v not_o answer_v they_o shall_v seek_v i_o early_o and_o shall_v not_o find_v i_o prov._n 1.18_o 19_o 20_o 21._o and_o although_o we_o may_v say_v unto_o such_o person_n in_o general_a either_o leave_v your_o sin_v or_o leave_v your_o pray_v from_o psal._n 50.16_o 17._o and_o that_o with_o respect_n unto_o present_a scandal_n and_o certain_a miscarriage_n in_o the_o end_n if_o both_o be_v continue_v in_o yet_o in_o particular_a i_o will_v not_o advise_v any_o such_o person_n to_o leave_v off_o his_o pray_v until_o he_o have_v leave_v his_o sin_n this_o be_v to_o advise_v a_o sick_a man_n to_o use_v no_o remedy_n until_o he_o be_v well_o cure_v who_o know_v but_o that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o work_v when_o and_o how_o he_o please_v may_v take_v a_o time_n to_o animate_v these_o lifeless_a prayer_n and_o make_v they_o a_o mean_n of_o deliverance_n from_o the_o power_n of_o this_o sin_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o fault_n and_o gild_n be_v whole_o their_o own_o who_o have_v effect_v a_o consistency_n between_o a_o way_n in_o sin_v and_o a_o course_n in_o pray_v and_o it_o arise_v from_o hence_o that_o they_o have_v never_o labour_v to_o fill_v up_o their_o request_n with_o grace_n what_o there_o have_v be_v of_o earnestness_n or_o diligence_n in_o they_o have_v be_v from_o a_o force_n put_v upon_o they_o by_o their_o conviction_n and_o fear_n for_o no_o man_n be_v ever_o absolute_o prevail_v on_o by_o sin_n who_o pray_v for_o deliverance_n according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n every_o pray_v man_n that_o perish_v be_v a_o hypocrite_n the_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n in_o his_o promise_n will_v not_o allow_v we_o to_o judge_n otherwise_o wherefore_o the_o thought_n that_o such_o person_n have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n even_o in_o their_o duty_n do_v not_o arise_v from_o within_o nor_o be_v a_o natural_a emanation_n of_o the_o frame_v of_o their_o
heart_n and_o affection_n 3._o earnestness_n and_o appear_a fervency_n in_o prayer_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a delivery_n of_o the_o word_n of_o it_o yea_o though_o the_o mind_n be_v so_o affect_v as_o to_o contribute_v much_o thereunto_o will_v not_o of_o themselves_o prove_v that_o the_o thought_n of_o man_n therein_o do_v arise_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n there_o be_v a_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n in_o prayer_n that_o be_v one_o of_o the_o best_a property_n of_o it_o be_v a_o earnest_n act_v of_o love_n faith_n and_o desire_n but_o there_o be_v a_o fervency_n wherewith_o the_o mind_n itself_o may_v be_v affect_v that_o may_v arise_v from_o other_o cause_n 1._o it_o may_v do_v so_o from_o the_o engagement_n of_o natural_a affection_n unto_o the_o object_n of_o their_o prayer_n or_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o man_n may_v be_v mighty_a earnest_n and_o intent_n in_o their_o mind_n in_o pray_v for_o a_o dear_a relation_n or_o for_o deliverance_n from_o eminent_a trouble_n or_o imminent_a danger_n and_o yet_o all_o this_o fervour_n arise_v from_o the_o vehement_a act_n of_o natural_a affection_n about_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o excite_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n by_o the_o present_a duty_n hence_o god_n call_v the_o earnest_a cry_n of_o some_o for_o temporal_a thing_n not_o a_o cry_v unto_o he_o but_o a_o howl_v hosea_n 7.14_o that_o be_v the_o cry_n of_o hungry_a ravenous_a beast_n that_o will_v be_v satisfy_v 2._o sometime_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o sharpness_n of_o conviction_n which_o will_v make_v man_n even_o roar_v in_o their_o prayer_n for_o disquietment_n of_o heart_n and_o this_o may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o true_a grace_n as_o yet_o receive_v nor_o it_o may_v be_v ever_o will_v be_v so_o for_o the_o perplex_v work_n of_o conviction_n go_v before_o real_a conversion_n and_o as_o it_o produce_v many_o other_o effect_n and_o change_n in_o the_o mind_n so_o it_o may_v do_v this_o of_o great_a fervency_n in_o vocal_a prayer_n especial_o if_o it_o be_v accompany_v with_o outward_a affliction_n pain_n or_o trouble_n psal._n 78.34_o 35._o 3._o ofttime_n the_o mind_n and_o affection_n be_v very_o little_o concern_v in_o that_o fervour_n and_o earnestness_n which_o appear_v in_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n but_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o gift_n and_o through_o their_o own_o utterance_n man_n put_v their_o natural_a affection_n into_o such_o a_o agitation_n as_o shall_v carry_v they_o out_o into_o a_o great_a vehemency_n in_o their_o expression_n it_o have_v be_v so_o with_o sundry_a person_n who_o have_v be_v discover_v to_o be_v rot_a hypocrite_n and_o have_v afterward_o turn_v curse_v apostate_n wherefore_o all_o these_o thing_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o gracious_a spring_n or_o vital_a principle_n act_v itself_o from_o within_o in_o spiritual_a thought_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v design_v a_o advantage_n by_o their_o conception_n unto_o the_o interest_n of_o profaneness_n and_o scoff_v for_o if_o there_o may_v be_v these_o evil_n under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n both_o in_o constancy_n and_o with_o fervency_n if_o there_o may_v be_v a_o total_a want_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o true_a grace_n with_o it_o and_o under_o it_o than_o it_o may_v be_v all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o this_o gift_n and_o its_o use_n be_v but_o hypocrisy_n and_o talk_n but_o i_o say_v 1._o it_o may_v be_v as_o well_o pretend_v that_o because_o the_o sun_n shine_v on_o a_o dunghill_n do_v occasion_n offensive_a and_o noisome_a steam_n therefore_o all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o its_o influence_n on_o spice_n and_o flower_n cause_v they_o to_o give_v out_o their_o fragrancy_n be_v utter_o false_a no_o man_n ever_o think_v that_o spiritual_a gift_n do_v change_v or_o renew_v the_o mind_n and_o nature_n of_o man_n where_o they_o be_v alone_o they_o only_o help_v and_o assist_v unto_o the_o useful_a exercise_n of_o natural_a faculty_n and_o power_n and_o therefore_o where_o the_o heart_n be_v not_o saving_o renew_v no_o gift_n can_v stir_v up_o a_o save_a exercise_n of_o faith_n but_o where_o it_o be_v so_o they_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o cause_v the_o savour_n of_o it_o to_o flow_v forth_o 2._o be_v it_o so_o that_o there_o may_v be_v some_o evil_n find_v under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n what_o remedy_n for_o they_o may_v be_v propose_v be_v it_o that_o man_n shall_v renounce_v their_o use_n of_o it_o and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n only_o 1._o the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o spiritual_a gift_n whatever_o for_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o liable_a unto_o abuse_n and_o shall_v we_o reject_v all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v the_o whole_a complexe_n of_o gospel_n gift_n for_o the_o commuication_n whereof_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v promise_v to_o continue_v his_o spirit_n with_o his_o church_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n because_o by_o some_o they_o be_v abuse_v 2._o not_o only_o the_o same_o but_o far_o great_a evil_n may_v be_v find_v in_o and_o under_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n which_o need_v no_o further_a demonstration_n than_o what_o it_o give_v of_o itself_o every_o day_n 3._o it_o be_v hard_o to_o understand_v how_o any_o benefit_n at_o all_o can_v accrue_v unto_o any_o by_o this_o relief_n when_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o other_o way_n be_v evident_a wherefore_o the_o enquiry_n remain_v how_o we_o may_v know_v unto_o our_o own_o satisfaction_n that_o the_o thought_n we_o have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n be_v from_o internal_a fountain_n of_o grace_n and_o so_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v whereunto_o all_o these_o thing_n do_v tend_v some_o few_o thing_n i_o shall_v offer_v towards_o satisfaction_n herein_o 1._o i_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v on_o the_o evidence_n before_o give_v that_o person_n who_o have_v any_o spiritual_a light_n and_o will_v diligent_o examine_v and_o try_v their_o own_o heart_n will_v be_v able_a to_o discern_v what_o real_a act_n of_o faith_n of_o love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n there_o be_v in_o their_o duty_n and_o consequent_o what_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o their_o spiritual_a thought_n in_o general_n we_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n in_o himself_o 1_o joh._n 5.10_o sincere_a faith_n will_v be_v its_o own_o evidence_n and_o where_o there_o be_v sincere_a act_n of_o faith_n they_o will_v evidence_n themselves_o if_o we_o try_v all_o thing_n impartial_o by_o the_o word_n but_o if_o man_n do_v as_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o do_v content_v themselves_o with_o the_o performance_n of_o any_o duty_n without_o a_o examination_n of_o their_o principle_n frames_n and_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o walk_v in_o all_o uncertainty_n 2._o when_o the_o soul_n find_v a_o sweet_a spiritual_a complacency_n in_o and_o after_o its_o duty_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o grace_n have_v be_v act_v in_o its_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o desire_n jer._n 31._o the_o prophet_n receive_v a_o long_a gracious_a message_n from_o god_n fill_v up_o with_o excellent_a promise_n and_o pathetical_a exhortation_n unto_o the_o church_n the_o whole_a be_v as_o it_o be_v sum_v up_o in_o the_o close_a of_o it_o ver._n 25._o for_o i_o have_v satiate_v the_o weary_a soul_n and_o i_o have_v replenish_v every_o sorrowful_a soul_n whereon_o the_o prophet_n add_v upon_o this_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v and_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o god_n gracious_a message_n have_v so_o compose_v his_o spirit_n and_o free_v his_o mind_n from_o trouble_n as_o that_o he_o be_v at_o quiet_a repose_n in_o himself_o like_o a_o man_n asleep_a but_o after_o the_o end_n of_o it_o he_o stir_v up_o himself_o unto_o a_o review_n and_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v speak_v unto_o he_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v or_o i_o stir_v up_o myself_o and_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v deliver_v unto_o i_o and_o say_v he_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o i_o find_v a_o gracious_a complacency_n in_o and_o refreshment_n unto_o my_o soul_n from_o what_o i_o have_v hear_v and_o receive_v so_o be_v it_o ofttimes_o with_o a_o soul_n that_o have_v have_v real_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n it_o find_v itself_o both_o in_o it_o and_o afterward_o when_o it_o be_v awaken_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o it_o spiritual_o refresh_v it_o be_v sweet_a unto_o he_o this_o holy_a complacency_n this_o rest_n and_o sweet_a repose_n of_o mind_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o delight_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o duty_n they_o do_v not_o pray_v only_o because_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n so_o to_o do_v nor_o yet_o because_o
they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o it_o so_o as_o that_o they_o can_v live_v without_o it_o but_o they_o have_v delight_n in_o it_o and_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o it_o be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o their_o daily_a food_n and_o refreshment_n now_o we_o can_v have_v no_o delight_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o what_o we_o have_v find_v some_o sweetness_n rest_v and_o complacency_n in_o without_o any_o such_o experience_n we_o may_v do_v or_o use_v any_o thing_n but_o can_v do_v it_o with_o delight_n and_o it_o arise_v 1._o from_o the_o approach_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o god_n therein_o it_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n a_o access_n unto_o god_n on_o a_o throne_n of_o grace_n ephes._n 2.18_o heb._n 10.19_o 20._o and_o when_o this_o access_n be_v animate_v by_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n the_o soul_n have_v a_o spiritual_a experience_n of_o a_o nearness_n in_o that_o approach_n now_o god_n be_v the_o fountain_n and_o centre_n of_o all_o spiritual_a refreshment_n rest_v and_o complacency_n and_o in_o such_o a_o access_n unto_o he_o there_o be_v a_o refresh_a taste_n of_o they_o communicate_v unto_o the_o soul_n psal._n 36.7_o 8_o 9_o how_o excellent_a be_v thy_o love_a kindness_n o_o god_n therefore_o the_o child_n of_o man_n put_v their_o trust_n under_o the_o shadow_n of_o thy_o wing_n they_o shall_v be_v abundant_o satisfy_v with_o the_o fatness_n of_o thy_o house_n and_o thou_o shall_v make_v they_o drink_v of_o the_o river_n of_o thy_o pleasure_n for_o with_o thou_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o life_n in_o thy_o light_n we_o shall_v see_v light_n god_n be_v propose_v in_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o love_a kindness_n which_o be_v comprehensive_a of_o his_o goodness_n grace_n and_o mercy_n and_o so_o be_v he_o also_o as_o the_o spring_n of_o life_n and_o light_n all_o spiritual_a power_n and_o joy_n those_o that_o believe_v be_v describe_v by_o their_o trust_n under_o the_o shadow_n of_o his_o wing_n in_o his_o worship_n the_o fatness_n of_o his_o house_n they_o make_v their_o approach_n unto_o he_o and_o the_o fruit_n hereof_o be_v that_o he_o make_v they_o to_o drink_v of_o the_o river_n of_o his_o pleasure_n the_o satisfy_n refresh_a stream_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o goodness_n they_o approach_v unto_o he_o as_o unto_o the_o fountain_n of_o life_n so_o as_o to_o drink_v of_o that_o fountain_n in_o renew_a communication_n of_o life_n and_o grace_n and_o in_o the_o light_n of_o god_n the_o light_n of_o his_o countenance_n to_o see_v light_n in_o satisfy_v joy_n in_o these_o thing_n do_v consist_v and_o from_o they_o do_v arise_v that_o spiritual_a complacency_n which_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n do_v find_v in_o their_o duty_n 2._o from_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o faith_n love_n and_o delight_n the_o grace_n wherein_o the_o life_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n do_v principal_o consist_v there_o be_v a_o suitableness_n unto_o our_o natural_a constitution_n and_o a_o secret_a complacency_n of_o our_o nature_n in_o the_o proper_a act_n of_o life_n natural_a for_o its_o own_o preservation_n and_o increase_n there_o be_v so_o in_o our_o spiritual_a constitution_n in_o the_o proper_a act_n of_o the_o power_n of_o our_o spiritual_a life_n unto_o its_o preservation_n and_o increase_n these_o grace_n in_o their_o due_a exercise_n do_v compose_v and_o refresh_v the_o mind_n as_o those_o which_o be_v perfective_a of_o its_o state_n which_o quell_v and_o cast_v out_o whatever_o trouble_v it_o thence_o a_o bless_a satisfaction_n and_o complacency_n befall_v the_o soul_n herein_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n in_o himself_o beside_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v never_o real_o act_v on_o christ_n but_o they_o prepare_v and_o make_v meet_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v communication_n of_o love_n and_o grace_n from_o he_o which_o it_o never_o fail_v of_o although_o it_o be_v not_o always_o sensible_a thereof_o 3._o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n unto_o our_o sincerity_n both_o in_o aim_n end_n and_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n hence_o a_o gracious_a repose_n of_o mind_n and_o great_a satisfactoriness_n do_v ensue_v if_o we_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o these_o thing_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o we_o walk_v at_o random_n in_o the_o best_a of_o our_o duty_n for_o they_o be_v among_o the_o principal_a thing_n that_o we_o do_v or_o aught_o to_o pray_v for_o and_o if_o we_o have_v not_o experience_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o our_o prayer_n in_o our_o heart_n we_o neither_o have_v advantage_n by_o they_o nor_o give_v glory_n unto_o god_n in_o they_o but_o yet_o here_o as_o in_o most_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n one_o of_o the_o worst_a of_o vice_n be_v ready_a to_o impose_v itself_o in_o the_o room_n and_o place_n of_o the_o best_a of_o our_o grace_n and_o this_o be_v self-pleasing_a in_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n this_o instead_o of_o a_o grace_n steep_v in_o humility_n as_o all_o true_a grace_n be_v be_v a_o vile_a effect_n of_o spiritual_a pride_n or_o the_o offering_n of_o a_o sacrifice_n unto_o our_o own_o net_n and_o drag_v it_o be_v a_o glory_v in_o the_o flesh_n for_o whatever_o of_o self_n any_o do_v glory_n in_o it_o be_v but_o flesh._n when_o man_n have_v have_v enlargement_n in_o their_o expression_n and_o especial_o when_o they_o apprehend_v that_o other_o be_v satisfy_v or_o affect_v therewith_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o have_v a_o secret_a self-pleasing_a in_o what_o they_o have_v do_v which_o before_o they_o be_v aware_a turn_n into_o pride_n and_o a_o noxious_a elation_n of_o mind_n the_o same_o may_v befall_v man_n in_o their_o most_o secret_a duty_n perform_v outward_o by_o the_o aid_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n but_o this_o be_v most_o remote_a from_o and_o contrary_n unto_o that_o spiritual_a complacency_n in_o duty_n which_o we_o speak_v of_o which_o yet_o it_o will_v pretend_v unto_o until_o it_o be_v diligent_o examine_v the_o language_n of_o this_o spiritual_a complacency_n be_v i_o will_v go_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n i_o will_v make_v mention_n of_o thy_o righteousness_n of_o thy_o only_a psal._n 71.16_o that_o of_o spiritual_a pride_n be_v god_n i_o thank_v thou_o that_o i_o have_v do_v thus_o and_o thus_o as_o it_o be_v express_v by_o the_o pharisee_fw-mi that_o be_v in_o god_n alone_o this_o be_v in_o self_n that_o draw_v forth_o the_o savour_n of_o all_o grace_n this_o immediate_o cover_v and_o bury_v they_o all_o if_o there_o be_v any_o in_o the_o sâ—ul_a that_o fill_v the_o soul_n eminent_o with_o humility_n and_o self-abasement_n this_o with_o a_o lift_n up_o of_o the_o mind_n and_o proud_a self-conceit_n that_o cast_v out_o all_o remembrance_n of_o what_o we_o have_v do_v ourselves_o retain_v only_o a_o sense_n of_o what_o we_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n of_o the_o impression_n of_o his_o love_n and_o grace_n this_o blot_n out_o all_o remembrance_n of_o what_o we_o have_v free_o receive_v from_o god_n and_o retain_v only_o what_o we_o have_v do_v ourselves_o wherever_o it_o be_v there_o be_v no_o due_a sense_n either_o of_o the_o greatness_n or_o goodness_n of_o god_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v say_v that_o if_o it_o be_v so_o they_o for_o their_o part_n be_v cut_v off_o they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o any_o such_o spiritual_a rest_n and_o complacency_n in_o god_n in_o or_o after_o their_o prayer_n at_o the_o best_a they_o begin_v they_o with_o tear_n and_o end_v they_o in_o sorrow_n and_o sometime_o they_o know_v not_o what_o be_v become_v of_o they_o but_o fear_v that_o god_n be_v not_o glorify_v by_o they_o nor_o their_o own_o soul_n better_v i_o answer_v 1._o there_o be_v great_a spiritual_a refreshment_n in_o that_o godly_a sorrow_n which_o be_v at_o work_n in_o our_o prayer_n where_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n he_o cause_v mourn_v and_o in_o that_o mourn_a there_o be_v joy_n 2._o the_o secret_a encouragement_n which_o we_o receive_v by_o pray_v to_o adhere_v unto_o god_n constant_o in_o prayer_n arise_v from_o some_o experience_n of_o this_o holy_a complacency_n though_o we_o have_v not_o a_o sensible_a evidence_n of_o it_o 3._o perhaps_o some_o of_o they_o who_o make_v this_o complaint_n if_o they_o will_v awaken_v and_o consider_v will_v find_v that_o their_o soul_n at_o least_o sometime_o have_v be_v thus_o refresh_v and_o bring_v unto_o a_o holy_a rest_n in_o god_n 4._o then_o shall_v you_o know_v the_o lord_n if_o you_o follow_v on_o to_o know_v he_o abide_v in_o seek_v after_o this_o complacency_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o god_n and_o you_o shall_v attain_v it_o 3._o it_o be_v a_o sure_a evidence_n that_o our_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o supplication_n be_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n and_o be_v not_o mere_o occasion_v by_o the_o
duty_n itself_o when_o we_o find_v the_o daily_a fruit_n and_o advantage_n of_o they_o especial_o in_o the_o preservation_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o a_o holy_a humble_a watchful_a frame_n innumerable_a be_v the_o advantage_n benefit_n and_o effect_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v common_o speak_v unto_o growth_n in_o grace_n and_o consolation_n be_v the_o substance_n of_o they_o where_o there_o be_v continuance_n in_o prayer_n there_o will_v be_v spiritual_a growth_n in_o some_o proportion_n for_o man_n to_o be_v earnest_a in_o prayer_n and_o thriftless_a in_o grace_n be_v a_o certain_a indication_n of_o prevalent_a corruption_n and_o want_v of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a in_o prayer_n itself_o if_o a_o man_n eat_v his_o daily_a food_n let_v he_o eat_v never_o so_o much_o or_o so_o often_o if_o he_o be_v not_o nourish_v by_o it_o his_o body_n be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o prevalent_a distemper_n and_o so_o be_v his_o spiritual_a constitution_n who_o thrive_v not_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o food_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n but_o that_o which_o i_o fix_v upon_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o present_a enquiry_n be_v the_o frame_n that_o it_o preserve_v the_o soul_n in_o it_o will_v keep_v it_o humble_a and_o upon_o a_o diligent_a watch_n as_o unto_o its_o disposition_n and_o act_n he_o who_o pray_v as_o he_o ought_v will_v endeavour_v to_o live_v as_o he_o pray_v this_o none_o can_v do_v who_o do_v not_o with_o diligence_n keep_v his_o heart_n unto_o the_o thing_n he_o have_v pray_v about_o to_o pray_v earnest_o and_o live_v careless_o be_v to_o proclaim_v that_o a_o man_n be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v in_o his_o prayer_n hereby_o than_o we_o shall_v know_v what_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o those_o spiritual_a thought_n which_o our_o mind_n be_v exercise_v withal_o in_o our_o supplication_n if_o they_o be_v influence_v unto_o a_o constant_a daily_a watch_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o that_o frame_n of_o spirit_n those_o disposition_n and_o inclination_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o we_o pray_v for_o they_o be_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n if_o there_o be_v general_o a_o unsuitableness_n in_o our_o mind_n unto_o what_o we_o seem_v to_o contend_v for_o in_o our_o prayer_n the_o gift_n may_v be_v in_o exercise_n but_o the_o grace_n be_v want_v if_o a_o man_n be_v every_o day_n on_o the_o exchange_n and_o there_o talk_v diligent_o and_o earnest_o about_o merchandise_n and_o the_o affair_n of_o trade_n but_o when_o he_o come_v home_n think_v no_o more_o of_o they_o because_o indeed_o he_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v no_o interest_n in_o they_o he_o may_v be_v a_o very_a poor_a man_n notwithstanding_o his_o pretence_n and_o he_o may_v be_v spiritual_o very_o poor_a who_o be_v on_o occasion_n fervent_a in_o prayer_n if_o when_o he_o retire_v unto_o himself_o he_o be_v not_o careful_a and_o diligent_a about_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o 4._o when_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o due_a preparation_n of_o heart_n unto_o the_o duty_n do_v excite_v and_o animate_v the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n and_o not_o the_o gift_n make_v impression_n on_o the_o affection_n then_o be_v we_o spiritual_o mind_a therein_o gift_n be_v servant_n not_o ruler_n in_o the_o mind_n be_v bestow_v on_o we_o to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o grace_n not_o to_o lead_v it_o but_o to_o follow_v it_o and_o to_o be_v ready_a with_o their_o assistance_n on_o its_o exercise_n for_o the_o most_o part_n where_o they_o lead_v all_o they_o be_v all_o alone_a this_o be_v the_o natural_a order_n of_o these_o thing_n grace_n habitual_o incline_v and_o dispose_v the_o heart_n unto_o this_o duty_n providence_n and_o rule_n give_v the_o occasion_n for_o its_o excercise_n sense_n of_o duty_n call_v for_o preparation_n grace_n come_v into_o actual_a exercise_n gift_n come_v in_o with_o their_o assistance_n if_o they_o lead_v all_o all_o be_v out_o of_o order_n it_o may_v be_v otherwise_o sometime_o a_o person_n indispose_v and_o lifeless_a engage_v into_o prayer_n in_o a_o way_n of_o obedience_n upon_o conviction_n of_o duty_n may_v in_o and_o by_o the_o gift_n have_v his_o affection_n excite_v and_o grace_n engage_v unto_o its_o proper_a work_n it_o may_v be_v so_o i_o say_v but_o let_v man_n take_v heed_n how_o they_o trust_v unto_o this_o order_n and_o method_n for_o where_o it_o be_v so_o there_o may_v be_v little_a or_o nothing_o of_o the_o exercise_n of_o true_a grace_n in_o all_o their_o fervour_n and_o commotion_n of_o affection_n but_o when_o the_o genuine_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n holy_a reverence_n and_o gracious_a desire_n do_v stir_v up_o the_o gift_n unto_o its_o exercise_n call_v in_o its_o assistance_n unto_o the_o expression_n of_o themselves_o then_o be_v the_o heart_n and_o mind_n in_o their_o proper_a order_n 5._o it_o be_v so_o when_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n be_v equal_o regard_v and_o attend_v unto_o with_o prayer_n itself_o he_o all_o who_o religion_n lie_v in_o prayer_n and_o hearing_n have_v none_o at_o all_o god_n have_v a_o equal_a respect_n unto_o all_o other_o duty_n and_o so_o must_v we_o have_v also_o so_o be_v it_o express_v as_o unto_o the_o instance_n of_o alm_n act_v 10.31_o and_o james_n place_v all_o religion_n herein_o because_o there_o be_v none_o without_o it_o jam._n 1.27_o i_o shall_v not_o value_v his_o prayer_n at_o all_o be_v he_o never_o so_o earnest_a and_o frequent_a in_o they_o who_o give_v not_o alm_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n and_o this_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n be_v require_v of_o we_o who_o be_v minister_n that_o we_o be_v not_o like_o a_o hand_n set_v up_o in_o cross_a way_n direct_v other_o which_o way_n to_o go_v but_o stay_v behind_o itself_o this_o digression_n about_o the_o rise_n and_o spring_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n in_o prayer_n i_o judge_v not_o unnecessary_a in_o such_o a_o time_n and_o season_n wherein_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v very_o jealous_a lest_o gift_n impose_v themselves_o in_o the_o room_n of_o grace_n and_o be_v careful_a that_o they_o be_v employ_v only_o unto_o their_o proper_a end_n which_o be_v to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o grace_n in_o its_o exercise_n and_o not_o otherwise_o 3._o there_o be_v another_o occasion_n of_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n when_o they_o do_v not_o spring_v from_o a_o live_a principle_n within_o and_o so_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o this_o be_v the_o discourse_n of_o other_o they_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n will_v be_v speak_v one_o to_o another_o of_o the_o thing_n wherein_o his_o glory_n be_v concern_v mal._n 3.16_o to_o declare_v the_o righteousness_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v the_o delight_n of_o his_o saint_n psal._n 145._o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o great_a be_v the_o lord_n and_o great_o to_o be_v praise_v and_o his_o greatness_n be_v unsearchable_a one_o generation_n shall_v praise_v thy_o work_n to_o another_o and_o shall_v declare_v thy_o mighty_a work_n i_o will_v speak_v of_o the_o glorious_a honour_n of_o thy_o majesty_n and_o of_o thy_o wondrous_a work_n and_o man_n shall_v speak_v of_o the_o might_n of_o thy_o terrible_a act_n and_o i_o will_v declare_v thy_o greatness_n they_o shall_v abundant_o utter_v the_o memory_n of_o thy_o great_a goodness_n and_o shall_v sing_v of_o thy_o righteousness_n the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a and_o full_a of_o compassion_n slow_a to_o anger_n and_o of_o great_a mercy_n and_o according_o there_o be_v some_o who_o be_v ready_a on_o all_o occasion_n to_o be_v speak_v or_o make_v mention_n of_o thing_n divine_a spiritual_a and_o holy_a and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o there_o be_v more_o of_o they_o all_o the_o flagitious_a sin_n that_o the_o world_n be_v fill_v withal_o be_v not_o a_o great_a evidence_n of_o the_o degeneracy_n of_o christian_a religion_n than_o this_o be_v that_o it_o be_v grow_v unusual_a yea_o a_o shame_n or_o scorn_v for_o man_n to_o speak_v together_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o so_o when_o religion_n be_v in_o its_o primitive_a power_n and_o glory_n nor_o be_v it_o so_o with_o they_o who_o real_o fear_v god_n and_o be_v sensible_a of_o their_o duty_n some_o i_o say_v there_o be_v who_o embrace_v all_o occasion_n of_o spiritual_a communication_n those_o with_o who_o they_o do_v converse_v if_o they_o be_v not_o profligate_v if_o they_o have_v any_o spiritual_a light_n can_v but_o so_o far_o comply_v with_o what_o they_o say_v as_o to_o think_v of_o the_o thing_n speak_v which_o be_v spiritual_a oft_o time_n the_o track_n and_o course_n of_o man_n thought_n lie_v so_o out_o of_o the_o way_n be_v so_o contrary_a unto_o such_o thing_n that_o they_o seem_v strange_a unto_o they_o they_o give_v they_o no_o entertainment_n you_o do_v but_o cross_v their_o way_n with_o such_o discourse_n whereon_o they_o stand_v still_o a_o little_a and_o
so_o pass_v on_o even_o the_o countenance_n of_o some_o man_n will_v change_v hereon_o and_o they_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o a_o unsatisfy_a silence_n until_o they_o can_v divert_v unto_o other_o thing_n some_o will_v make_v such_o reply_n of_o empty_a word_n as_o shall_v evidence_n their_o heart_n to_o be_v far_o enough_o estrange_v from_o the_o thing_n propose_v unto_o they_o but_o with_o other_o such_o occasional_a discourse_n will_v make_v such_o impression_n on_o their_o mind_n as_o to_o stir_v up_o present_a thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o though_o frequent_a occasion_n hereof_o may_v be_v renew_v yet_o will_v such_o thought_n give_v no_o evidence_n that_o any_o man_n be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o they_o be_v not_o genuine_a from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n from_o these_o cause_n it_o be_v that_o the_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v with_o many_o as_o guest_n that_o come_v into_o a_o inn_n and_o not_o like_o child_n that_o dwell_v in_o the_o house_n they_o enter_v occasional_o and_o then_o there_o be_v a_o great_a stir_n about_o they_o to_o provide_v meet_a entertainment_n for_o they_o within_o a_o while_n they_o be_v dispose_v of_o and_o so_o depart_v unto_o their_o own_o occasion_n be_v neither_o look_v nor_o inquire_v after_o any_o more_o thing_n of_o another_o nature_n be_v attend_v unto_o new_a occasion_n bring_v in_o new_a guest_n for_o a_o season_n child_n be_v own_v in_o the_o house_n be_v miss_v if_o they_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n and_o have_v their_o daily_a provision_n constant_o make_v for_o they_o so_o be_v it_o with_o these_o occasional_a thought_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n by_o one_o mean_n or_o other_o they_o enter_v into_o the_o mind_n and_o there_o be_v entertain_v for_o a_o season_n on_o a_o sudden_a they_o depart_v and_o man_n hear_v of_o they_o no_o more_o but_o those_o that_o be_v natural_a and_o genuine_a arise_v from_o a_o live_a spring_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n dispose_v the_o mind_n unto_o they_o be_v as_o the_o child_n of_o the_o house_n they_o be_v expect_v in_o their_o place_n and_o at_o their_o season_n if_o they_o be_v miss_v they_o be_v inquire_v after_o the_o heart_n call_v itself_o unto_o a_o account_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o it_o have_v be_v so_o long_o without_o they_o and_o call_v they_o over_o into_o its_o wont_a converse_n with_o they_o chap._n iu._n other_o evidence_n of_o thought_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n arise_v from_o a_o internal_a principle_n of_o grace_n whereby_o they_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a the_o abound_v of_o these_o thought_n how_o far_o and_o wherein_o such_o a_o evidence_n ii_o the_o second_o evidence_n that_o our_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v proceed_v from_o a_o internal_a fountain_n of_o sanctify_a light_n and_o affection_n or_o that_o they_o be_v act_n or_o fruit_n of_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v that_o they_o abound_v in_o we_o that_o our_o mind_n be_v fill_v with_o they_o we_o may_v say_v of_o they_o as_o the_o apostle_n do_v of_o other_o grace_n if_o these_o thing_n be_v in_o you_o and_o abound_v you_o shall_v not_o be_v barren_a it_o be_v well_o indeed_o when_o our_o mind_n be_v like_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n in_o the_o year_n of_o plenty_n when_o it_o bring_v forth_o by_o handful_n when_o they_o flow_v from_o the_o well_o of_o live_v water_n in_o we_o with_o a_o full_a stream_n and_o current_n but_o there_o be_v a_o measure_n of_o abound_v which_o be_v necessary_a to_o evidence_n our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o they_o there_o be_v a_o double_a effect_v ascribe_v here_o unto_o this_o frame_n of_o spirit_n first_o life_n and_o then_o peace_n the_o nature_n and_o be_v of_o this_o grace_n depend_v on_o the_o former_a consideration_n of_o it_o namely_o its_o procedure_n from_o a_o internal_a principle_n of_o grace_n the_o effect_n and_o consequence_n whereof_o be_v life_n but_o that_o it_o be_v peace_n also_o depend_v on_o this_o degree_n and_o measure_n of_o the_o act_n of_o this_o part_n of_o it_o in_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o this_o we_o must_v consider_v it_o be_v the_o character_n of_o all_o man_n in_o the_o state_n of_o deprave_a nature_n and_o apostasy_n from_o god_n that_o every_o imagination_n of_o the_o thought_n of_o their_o heart_n be_v only_o evil_a continual_o gen._n 6.5_o all_o person_n in_o that_o condition_n be_v not_o swearer_n blasphemer_n drunkard_n adulterer_n idolater_n or_o the_o like_a these_o be_v the_o vice_n of_o particular_a person_n the_o effect_n of_o particular_a constitution_n and_o temptation_n but_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o they_o all_z and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o all_o the_o imagination_n of_o the_o thought_n of_o their_o heart_n be_v evil_a and_o that_o continual_o some_z as_o unto_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o some_z as_o unto_o their_o end_n all_o as_o unto_o their_o principle_n for_o out_o of_o the_o evil_a treasure_n of_o the_o heart_n can_v proceed_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v evil_a that_o infinite_a multitude_n of_o open_a sin_n which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n do_v give_v a_o clear_a prospect_n or_o representation_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o effect_n of_o our_o apostasy_n from_o god_n but_o he_o that_o can_v consider_v the_o numberless_a number_n of_o thought_n which_o pass_v through_o the_o mind_n of_o every_o individual_a person_n every_o day_n all_o evil_a and_o that_o continual_o he_o will_v have_v a_o far_a comprehension_n of_o it_o we_o can_v therefore_o have_v no_o great_a evidence_n of_o a_o change_n in_o we_o from_o this_o state_n and_o condition_n than_o a_o change_n wrought_v in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o thought_n a_o relinquishment_n of_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a sin_n be_v not_o a_o evidence_n of_o a_o translation_n from_o this_o state_n for_o as_o be_v say_v such_o particular_a sin_n proceed_v from_o particular_a lust_n and_o temptation_n and_o be_v not_o the_o immediate_a universal_a consequence_n of_o that_o depravation_n of_o nature_n which_o be_v equal_a in_o all_o such_o alone_o be_v the_o vanity_n and_o wickedness_n of_o the_o thought_n and_o imagination_n of_o the_o heart_n a_o change_n herein_o be_v a_o bless_a evidence_n of_o a_o change_n of_o state_n he_o who_o be_v cure_v of_o a_o dropsy_n be_v not_o immediate_o healthy_a because_o he_o may_v have_v the_o prevail_a seed_n and_o matter_n of_o other_o disease_n in_o he_o and_o the_o next_o day_n die_v of_o a_o lethargy_n but_o he_o who_o from_o a_o state_n of_o sickness_n be_v restore_v in_o the_o temperature_n of_o the_o mass_n of_o blood_n and_o the_o animal_n spirit_n and_o all_o the_o principle_n of_o life_n and_o health_n unto_o a_o good_a crasis_n and_o temperature_n his_o state_n of_o body_n be_v change_v the_o cure_n of_o a_o particular_a sin_n may_v leave_v behind_o it_o the_o seed_n of_o eternal_a death_n which_o they_o may_v quick_o effect_v but_o he_o who_o have_v obtain_v a_o change_n in_o this_o character_n which_o belong_v essential_o unto_o the_o state_n of_o deprave_a nature_n be_v spiritual_o recover_v and_o the_o more_o the_o stream_n of_o our_o thought_n be_v turn_v the_o more_o our_o mind_n be_v fill_v with_o those_o of_o a_o contrary_a nature_n the_o great_a and_o more_o firm_a be_v our_o evidence_n of_o a_o translation_n out_o of_o that_o deprave_a state_n and_o condition_n there_o be_v nothing_o so_o unaccountable_a as_o the_o multiplicity_n of_o thought_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n they_o fall_v from_o they_o like_o the_o leave_v of_o tree_n when_o they_o be_v shake_v with_o the_o wind_n in_o autumn_n to_o have_v all_o these_o thought_n all_o the_o several_a figment_n of_o the_o heart_n all_o the_o conception_n that_o be_v frame_v and_o agitate_a in_o the_o mind_n to_o be_v evil_a and_o that_o continual_o what_o a_o hell_n of_o horror_n and_o confusion_n must_v it_o need_v be_v a_o deliverance_n from_o this_o loathsome_a hateful_a state_n be_v more_o to_o be_v value_v than_o the_o whole_a world_n without_o it_o neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n nor_o immortality_n or_o glory_n can_v ever_o be_v attain_v the_o design_n of_o conviction_n be_v to_o put_v a_o stop_n unto_o these_o thought_n to_o take_v off_o from_o their_o number_n and_o thereby_o to_o lessen_v their_o gild_n it_o deserve_v not_o the_o name_n of_o conviction_n of_o sin_n which_o respect_v only_o outward_a action_n and_o regard_v not_o the_o inward_a act_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o this_o alone_a will_n for_o a_o season_n make_v a_o great_a change_n in_o the_o thought_n especial_o it_o will_v do_v so_o when_o assist_v by_o superstition_n direct_v they_o unto_o other_o object_n these_o two_o in_o conjunction_n be_v the_o rise_n of_o all_o that_o devotional_a religion_n which_o be_v in_o the_o papacy_n conviction_n labour_v to_o put_v some_o stop_n and_o bound_n unto_o thought_n
a_o thought_n of_o he_o how_o foolish_a be_v i_o to_o be_v want_v to_o such_o or_o such_o a_o opportunity_n i_o be_o in_o arrear_n unto_o myself_o and_o have_v no_o rest_n until_o i_o be_v satisfy_v i_o say_v if_o indeed_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v we_o will_v due_o and_o careful_o call_v over_o the_o consideration_n of_o those_o time_n and_o season_n wherein_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v exercise_v ourselves_o in_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o if_o we_o have_v lose_v they_o or_o any_o of_o they_o mourn_v over_o our_o own_o negligence_n but_o if_o we_o can_v omit_v and_o lose_v such_o season_n or_o opportunity_n from_o time_n to_o time_n without_o regret_n or_o self-reflection_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o we_o wax_v worse_o and_o worse_o way_n will_v be_v make_v hereby_o for_o further_a omission_n until_o we_o grow_v whole_o cold_a about_o they_o and_o indeed_o that_o woeful_a loss_n of_o time_n that_o be_v find_v among_o many_o professor_n be_v great_o to_o be_v bewail_v some_o lose_v it_o on_o themselves_o by_o a_o continual_a tract_n of_o fruitless_a impertinent_a thought_n about_o their_o own_o concern_v some_o in_o vain_a converse_n with_o oher_n wherein_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o edify_v one_o another_o unto_o vanity_n how_o much_o of_o this_o time_n may_v nay_o aught_o to_o be_v redeem_v for_o holy_a meditation_n the_o good_a lord_n make_v all_o professor_n sensible_a of_o their_o loss_n of_o former_a season_n that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o more_o watchful_a for_o the_o future_a in_o this_o great_a concernment_n of_o their_o soul_n little_o do_v some_o think_v what_o light_n what_o assurance_n what_o joy_n what_o readiness_n for_o the_o cross_n or_o for_o heaven_n they_o may_v have_v attain_v have_v they_o lay_v hold_v on_o all_o just_a season_n of_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o they_o have_v enjoy_v who_o now_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n in_o all_o and_o surprise_v with_o every_o fear_n or_o difficulty_n that_o do_v befall_v they_o this_o be_v the_o first_o thing_n that_o belong_v unto_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o although_o it_o do_v not_o absolute_o or_o essential_o consist_v therein_o yet_o be_v it_o inseparable_a from_o it_o and_o the_o most_o undeceive_a indication_n of_o it_o and_o thus_o of_o abound_v and_o abide_v in_o thought_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n such_o as_o arise_v and_o spring_v natural_o from_o a_o live_a principle_n a_o spiritual_a frame_n and_o disposition_n of_o heart_n within_o chap._n v._n the_o object_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n or_o what_o they_o be_v conversant_a about_o evidence_v they_o in_o who_o they_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v rule_n direct_v unto_o steadiness_n in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n motive_n to_o fix_v our_o thought_n with_o steadiness_n in_o they_o before_o i_o proceed_v unto_o the_o next_o general_a head_n and_o which_o be_v the_o principal_a thing_n the_o foundation_n of_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n inquire_v after_o some_o thing_n must_v be_v speak_v to_o render_v what_o have_v be_v already_o insist_v on_o yet_o more_o particular_o useful_a and_o this_o be_v to_o inquire_v what_o be_v or_o what_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o special_a object_n of_o those_o thought_n which_o under_o the_o qualification_n lay_v down_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o it_o may_v be_v we_o may_v be_v useful_a unto_o many_o herein_o by_o help_v of_o they_o to_o fix_v their_o mind_n which_o be_v apt_a to_o rove_v into_o all_o uncertainty_n for_o this_o be_v befall_v we_o through_o the_o disorder_n and_o weakness_n of_o the_o faculty_n of_o our_o soul_n that_o sometime_o what_o the_o mind_n guide_v lead_v and_o direct_v unto_o in_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a our_o will_n and_o affection_n through_o their_o depravation_n and_o corruption_n will_v not_o comply_v withal_o and_o so_o the_o good_a designing_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v lose_v sometime_o what_o the_o will_n and_o affection_n be_v incline_v unto_o and_o ready_a for_o the_o mind_n through_o its_o weakness_n and_o inconstancy_n can_v lead_v they_o to_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o so_o to_o will_n be_v present_a with_o we_o but_o how_o to_o perform_v that_o will_v we_o know_v not_o so_o many_o be_v barren_a in_o this_o duty_n because_o they_o know_v not_o what_o to_o fix_v upon_o nor_o how_o to_o exercise_n their_o thought_n when_o they_o have_v choose_v a_o subject_n for_o their_o meditation_n hence_o they_o spend_v their_o time_n in_o fruitless_a desire_n that_o they_o can_v use_v their_o thought_n unto_o more_o purpose_n rather_o than_o make_v any_o progress_n in_o the_o duty_n itself_o they_o tire_v themselves_o not_o because_o they_o be_v not_o willing_a to_o go_v but_o because_o they_o can_v find_v their_o way_n wherefore_o both_o these_o thing_n shall_v be_v speak_v unto_o both_o what_o be_v the_o proper_a object_n of_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o how_o we_o may_v be_v steady_a in_o our_o contemplation_n of_o they_o and_o i_o shall_v unto_o this_o purpose_n first_o give_v some_o general_a rule_n and_o then_o some_o particular_a instance_n in_o way_n of_o direction_n 1._o observe_v the_o especial_a call_n of_o providence_n and_o apply_v your_o mind_n unto_o thought_n of_o the_o duty_n require_v in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o there_o be_v a_o voice_n in_o all_o signal_n dispensation_n of_o providence_n the_o voice_n of_o the_o lord_n cry_v unto_o the_o city_n the_o man_n of_o wisdom_n shall_v see_v thy_o name_n hear_v you_o the_o rod_n and_o who_o have_v appoint_v it_o mic._n 6.9_o there_o be_v a_o call_v a_o cry_n in_o every_o rod_n of_o god_n in_o every_o chastise_v providence_n and_o therein_o make_v a_o declaration_n of_o his_o name_n his_o holiness_n his_o power_n his_o greatness_n this_o every_o wise_a substantial_a man_n will_v labour_v to_o discern_v and_o so_o comply_v with_o the_o call_n god_n be_v great_o provoke_v when_o it_o be_v otherwise_o lord_n when_o thy_o hand_n be_v lift_v up_o they_o will_v not_o see_v but_o they_o shall_v see_v and_o be_v ashamed_a isa._n 26.11_o if_o therefore_o we_o will_v apply_v ourselves_o unto_o our_o present_a duty_n we_o be_v wise_o to_o consider_v what_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n in_o his_o present_a providential_a dispensation_n in_o the_o world_n harken_v not_o unto_o any_o who_o will_v give_v another_o interpretation_n of_o they_o but_o that_o they_o be_v plain_a declaration_n of_o his_o displeasure_n and_o indignation_n against_o the_o sin_n of_o man_n be_v not_o his_o wrath_n in_o they_o reveal_v from_o heaven_n against_o the_o ungodliness_n of_o man_n especial_o such_o as_o detain_v the_o truth_n in_o unrighteousness_n or_o false_a hypocritical_a professor_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v he_o not_o also_o signal_o declare_v the_o uncertainty_n and_o instability_n of_o earthly_a enjoyment_n from_o life_n itself_o to_o a_o shoo-latchet_a as_o also_o how_o vain_a and_o foolish_a it_o be_v to_o adhere_v inordinate_o unto_o they_o the_o finger_n that_o appear_v write_v on_o the_o wall_n the_o doom_n of_o belshazzar_n do_v it_o in_o character_n that_o none_o read_v and_o word_n that_o none_o can_v understand_v but_o daniel_n but_o the_o present_a call_n of_o god_n in_o these_o thing_n be_v make_v plain_a upon_o table_n that_o he_o may_v run_v who_o read_v it_o if_o the_o heaven_n gather_v blackness_n with_o cloud_n and_o it_o thunder_v over_o we_o if_o any_o that_o be_v on_o their_o journey_n will_v not_o believe_v that_o there_o be_v a_o storm_n a_o come_n they_o must_v bear_v the_o severity_n of_o it_o suppose_v then_o this_o to_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o providence_n suppose_v there_o be_v in_o it_o these_o indication_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n what_o be_v the_o duty_n that_o we_o be_v call_v unto_o thereby_o they_o may_v be_v refer_v unto_o two_o head_n 1._o a_o diligent_a search_n into_o ourselves_o and_o a_o holy_a watch_n over_o ourselves_o with_o respect_n unto_o those_o way_n and_o sin_n which_o the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n be_v declare_v against_o that_o present_a providence_n be_v indication_n of_o god_n anger_n and_o displeasure_n we_o take_v for_o grant_v but_o when_o this_o be_v do_v the_o most_o be_v apt_a to_o cast_v the_o cause_n of_o they_o on_o other_o and_o to_o excuse_v themselves_o so_o long_o as_o they_o see_v other_o more_o wicked_a and_o prosligate_v than_o themselves_o open_o guilty_a of_o such_o crime_n as_o they_o abhor_v the_o thought_n of_o they_o cast_v all_o the_o wrath_n on_o they_o and_o fear_v nothing_o but_o that_o they_o shall_v suffer_v with_o they_o but_o alas_o when_o the_o storm_n come_v on_o the_o ship_n at_o sea_n wherein_o there_o be_v but_o one_o person_n that_o fear_v god_n upon_o a_o enquiry_n for_o who_o sake_n it_o come_v the_o lot_n fall_v on_o he_o jon._n 1.7_o the_o cause_n of_o
to_o fulfil_v the_o lust_n thereof_o their_o principal_a trouble_n be_v that_o they_o can_v comply_v with_o they_o to_o the_o utmost_a by_o reason_n of_o some_o outward_a restraint_n these_o dwell_v near_o unto_o those_o fool_n who_o make_v a_o mock_n of_o sin_n and_o will_v ever_o long_o take_v up_o their_o habitation_n among_o they_o but_o i_o speak_v as_o i_o say_v before_o of_o they_o only_o who_o temptation_n be_v their_o affliction_n and_o who_o groan_n for_o deliverance_n from_o they_o acquaint_v such_o person_n with_o the_o great_a indeed_o only_a way_n of_o relief_n in_o this_o distress_n as_o it_o be_v express_v heb._n 2.17_o 18._o he_o be_v a_o merciful_a and_o faithful_a high_a priest_n in_o thing_n appertain_v unto_o god_n for_o in_o that_o he_o himself_o have_v suffer_v be_v tempt_v he_o be_v able_a to_o succour_n they_o that_o be_v tempt_v and_o chap._n 4.15_o 16._o for_o we_o have_v not_o a_o high_a priest_n that_o can_v be_v touch_v with_o the_o feel_n of_o our_o infirmity_n but_o be_v in_o all_o point_v tempt_v like_a as_o we_o be_v yet_o without_o sin_n let_v we_o therefore_o come_v bold_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n that_o we_o may_v obtain_v mercy_n and_o find_v grace_n to_o help_v in_o time_n of_o need_n let_v they_o know_v that_o their_o only_a way_n for_o their_o deliverance_n be_v by_o act_v faith_n in_o thought_n on_o christ_n his_o power_n to_o succour_v they_o that_o be_v tempt_v with_o the_o way_n whereby_o he_o administer_v a_o sufficiency_n of_o grace_n unto_o that_o end_n retreat_v for_o relief_n unto_o he_o on_o the_o urgency_n of_o temptation_n they_o can_v hardly_o be_v bring_v unto_o a_o compliance_n therewithal_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o say_v be_v not_o abana_n and_o pharpar_n river_n of_o damascus_n better_a than_o all_o the_o water_n of_o israel_n be_v it_o not_o better_a to_o betake_v ourselves_o and_o to_o trust_v unto_o our_o own_o promise_n resolution_n and_o endeavour_n with_o such_o other_o way_n of_o escape_n as_o be_v in_o our_o own_o power_n i_o shall_v speak_v nothing_o against_o any_o of_o they_o in_o their_o proper_a place_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v warrant_v by_o scripture_n rule_n but_o this_o i_o say_v none_o shall_v ever_o be_v deliver_v from_o perplex_v temptation_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o their_o own_o spiritual_a advantage_n but_o by_o the_o act_n and_o exercise_v of_o faith_n on_o christ_n jesus_n and_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n for_o our_o deliverance_n but_o when_o man_n be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v they_o can_v fix_v their_o thought_n on_o spiritual_a thing_n therefore_o do_v man_n daily_o pine_v away_o under_o their_o temptation_n they_o get_v ground_n upon_o they_o until_o their_o breach_n grow_v great_a like_o the_o sea_n and_o there_o be_v no_o heal_n of_o it_o i_o mention_v this_o only_a to_o show_v the_o weight_n and_o necessity_n of_o the_o duty_n propose_v for_o when_o man_n under_o the_o power_n of_o conviction_n be_v press_v with_o temptation_n they_o will_v do_v any_o thing_n rather_o than_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o only_a efficacious_a relief_n some_o will_v groan_v and_o cry_v out_o under_o their_o vexation_n from_o the_o torture_n they_o be_v put_v unto_o in_o the_o conflict_n between_o their_o temptation_n and_o conviction_n some_o will_v betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o pretend_a relief_n that_o any_o false_a religion_n tender_v unto_o they_o but_o to_o apply_v themselves_o in_o thought_n of_o faith_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n who_o grace_n alone_o be_v sufficient_a for_o all_o that_o they_o will_v not_o be_v persuade_v unto_o we_o be_v all_o of_o we_o liable_a unto_o temptation_n those_o who_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o it_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o what_o the_o temptation_n lead_v unto_o and_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n first_o such_o as_o be_v extraordinary_a when_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n be_v in_o they_o in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n for_o our_o rebuke_n it_o be_v true_a god_n tempt_v none_o as_o temptation_n formal_o lead_v unto_o sin_n but_o he_o order_n temptation_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o be_v afflictive_a and_o chastisement_n thus_o it_o be_v when_o he_o suffer_v a_o especial_a corruption_n within_o to_o fall_v in_o conjunction_n with_o a_o especial_a temptation_n without_o and_o to_o obtain_v a_o prevalency_n thereby_o of_o these_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o any_o man_n not_o judicial_o harden_v may_v know_v both_o his_o disease_n and_o the_o remedy_n but_o that_o ordinary_a course_n of_o temptation_n which_o we_o be_v exercise_v withal_o needs_o a_o diligent_a attendance_n for_o their_o discovery_n as_o well_o as_o for_o our_o deliverance_n from_o they_o and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o many_o be_v keep_v in_o spiritual_a weakness_n useless_a and_o in_o darkness_n all_o their_o day_n through_o the_o power_n of_o their_o temptation_n yet_o never_o know_v what_o they_o be_v or_o wherein_o they_o consist_v these_o gray_a hair_n be_v sprinkle_v on_o they_o yet_o they_o know_v it_o not_o some_o approve_v themselves_o in_o those_o very_a thing_n and_o way_n which_o be_v their_o temptation_n yet_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o due_a watchfulness_n diligence_n and_o prudence_n man_n may_v know_v both_o the_o plague_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n in_o their_o prevail_a corruption_n and_o the_o way_n whereby_o it_o be_v excite_v through_o temptation_n with_o the_o occasion_n it_o make_v use_v of_o and_o the_o advantage_n it_o take_v for_o instance_n one_o may_v have_v a_o eminency_n in_o gift_n and_o usefulness_n or_o success_n in_o his_o labour_n which_o give_v he_o great_a acceptance_n with_o other_o such_o a_o one_o shall_v hardly_o avoid_v a_o double_a temptation_n first_o of_o spiritual_a pride_n and_o self_n exaltation_n hence_o the_o apostle_n will_v not_o admit_v a_o novice_n one_o unexperienced_a in_o the_o way_n of_o grace_n and_o deceit_n of_o sin_n into_o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n lest_o he_o shall_v be_v lift_v up_o with_o pride_n and_o fall_v into_o the_o condemnation_n of_o the_o devil_n 1_o tim._n 3.6_o he_o himself_o be_v not_o without_o danger_n hereof_o 2_o cor._n 12.17_o the_o best_a of_o man_n can_v hardly_o fortify_v their_o mind_n against_o the_o secret_a work_n of_o pride_n upon_o success_n and_o applause_n unless_o they_o keep_v they_o constant_o balance_v with_o thought_n of_o their_o own_o vileness_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o second_o remisseness_n unto_o exact_a universal_a mortification_n which_o they_o countenance_v themselves_o against_o by_o their_o acceptance_n and_o success_n above_o other_o in_o the_o ministry_n it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v desire_v that_o all_o we_o who_o be_v minister_n will_v be_v careful_a in_o these_o thing_n for_o although_o some_o of_o we_o may_v not_o much_o please_v other_o yet_o we_o may_v so_o far_o please_v ourselves_o as_o to_o expose_v our_o soul_n unto_o these_o snare_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o negligence_n herein_o do_v open_o appear_v unto_o the_o disadvantage_n of_o the_o gospel_n other_o be_v much_o conversant_a in_o the_o world_n and_o the_o affair_n of_o it_o negligence_n as_o unto_o a_o spiritual_a watch_n vanity_n in_o converse_n love_n of_o earthly_a thing_n with_o conformity_n unto_o the_o world_n will_v on_o all_o occasion_n impose_v themselves_o upon_o they_o if_o they_o understand_v not_o their_o temptation_n herein_o spiritual_a mindedness_n will_v be_v impair_v in_o they_o continual_o those_o that_o be_v rich_a have_v their_o especial_a temptation_n which_o for_o the_o most_o part_n be_v many_o plausible_a and_o effectual_a and_o those_o that_o be_v poor_a have_v they_o also_o the_o snare_n of_o some_o lie_n in_o their_o constitution_n of_o other_o in_o their_o society_n of_o most_o in_o the_o various_a circumstance_n of_o life_n those_o who_o be_v upon_o their_o watch_n in_o any_o due_a measure_n who_o exercise_n any_o wisdom_n or_o observation_n concern_v themselves_o may_v know_v wherein_o their_o temptation_n do_v lie_v what_o be_v the_o advantage_n whereby_o they_o perplex_v their_o mind_n and_o endanger_v their_o soul_n in_o these_o case_n general_o man_n be_v teach_v what_o be_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o their_o deliverance_n and_o preservation_n wherefore_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n require_v unto_o this_o duty_n and_o spiritual_a wisdom_n unto_o they_o all_o 1._o to_o know_v what_o be_v the_o especial_a temptation_n from_o whence_o you_o suffer_v and_o whereby_o the_o life_n of_o god_n be_v obstruct_v in_o in_o you_o if_o this_o be_v neglect_v if_o it_o be_v disregard_v no_o man_n can_v maintain_v either_o life_n or_o peace_n or_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v 2._o know_v your_o remedy_n your_o relief_n wherein_o alone_o it_o do_v consist_v many_o duty_n be_v require_v of_o we_o unto_o this_o end_n and_o be_v useful_a thereunto_o but_o know_v assure_o that_o no_o one_o of_o they_o not_o all_o of_o
they_o in_o conjunction_n will_v bring_v in_o relief_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o your_o own_o peace_n without_o application_n by_o faith_n unto_o he_o who_o be_v able_a to_o succour_v they_o that_o be_v tempt_v wherefore_o 3._o herein_o lie_v your_o great_a duty_n with_o respect_n unto_o your_o temptation_n namely_o in_o a_o constant_a exercise_n of_o your_o thought_n on_o the_o love_n care_n compassion_n and_o tenderness_n of_o christ_n with_o his_o ability_n to_o help_v succour_n and_o save_v they_o that_o do_v believe_v so_o to_o strengthen_v your_o faith_n and_o trust_n in_o he_o which_o will_v prove_v assure_o successful_a and_o victorious_a the_o same_o duty_n be_v incumbent_a on_o we_o with_o respect_n unto_o any_o urgent_a prevalent_a general_a temptation_n there_o be_v season_n wherein_o a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n come_v on_o the_o earth_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v therein_o what_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v judge_v that_o now_o it_o be_v such_o a_o hour_n and_o that_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n be_v put_v forth_o therein_o what_o if_o he_o shall_v be_v persuade_v that_o a_o general_a security_n coldness_n deadness_n and_o decay_n in_o grace_n especial_o as_o to_o the_o vigorous_a act_n of_o zeal_n love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n with_o a_o indifferency_n unto_o holy_a duty_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o this_o hour_n of_o temptation_n i_o do_v not_o say_v determinate_o that_o so_o it_o be_v let_v other_o judge_n as_o they_o see_v cause_n but_o if_o any_o one_o do_v so_o judge_v undoubted_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n to_o be_v exercise_v in_o his_o thought_n how_o he_o may_v escape_v in_o this_o day_n of_o trial_n and_o be_v count_v worthy_a to_o stand_v before_o the_o son_n of_o man._n he_o will_v find_v it_o his_o concernment_n to_o be_v conversant_a in_o his_o mind_n with_o the_o reason_n and_o motive_n unto_o watchfulness_n and_o how_o he_o may_v obtain_v such_o supply_n of_o grace_n as_o may_v effectual_o preserve_v he_o from_o such_o decay_n 3._o all_o thing_n in_o religion_n both_o in_o faith_n and_o practice_n be_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o such_o thought_n as_o they_o be_v propose_v or_o occur_v unto_o our_o mind_n in_o great_a variety_n on_o all_o sort_n of_o occasion_n so_o we_o ought_v to_o give_v they_o entertainment_n in_o our_o meditation_n to_o hear_v thing_n to_o have_v they_o propose_v unto_o we_o it_o may_v be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o a_o divine_a ordinance_n and_o to_o let_v they_o slip_v out_o or_o flow_v from_o we_o as_o water_n that_o be_v pour_v into_o a_o leak_a vessel_n be_v the_o ruin_n of_o many_o soul_n i_o shall_v therefore_o choose_v out_o some_o instance_n as_o be_v before_o propose_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o i_o judge_v that_o they_o who_o will_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v aught_o to_o abide_v and_o abound_v in_o thought_n concern_v they_o 1._o it_o be_v our_o duty_n great_o to_o mind_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o eternal_a thing_n both_o as_o unto_o their_o reality_n their_o 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present_a thing_n he_o that_o look_v steady_o on_o the_o sun_n although_o he_o can_v bear_v the_o lustre_n of_o its_o beam_n full_o yet_o his_o sight_n be_v so_o affect_v with_o it_o that_o when_o he_o call_v off_o his_o eye_n from_o it_o he_o can_v see_v nothing_o as_o it_o be_v of_o the_o thing_n about_o he_o they_o be_v all_o dark_a unto_o he_o and_o he_o who_o look_v steady_o in_o his_o contemplation_n on_o thing_n above_o eternal_a thing_n though_o he_o can_v comprehend_v their_o glory_n yet_o a_o veil_n will_v be_v cast_v by_o it_o on_o all_o the_o desirable_a beauty_n of_o earthly_a thing_n and_o take_v off_o his_o affection_n from_o they_o man_n live_v and_o act_v under_o the_o power_n of_o a_o conviction_n that_o there_o be_v a_o state_n of_o immortality_n and_o glory_n to_o come_v with_o a_o persuasion_n hereof_o they_o much_o relieve_v themselves_o in_o their_o sorrow_n suffering_n and_o temptation_n yet_o with_o many_o it_o be_v only_o a_o reserve_v when_o they_o can_v be_v here_o no_o more_o but_o as_o unto_o daily_a contemplation_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o cause_n of_o it_o or_o as_o unto_o any_o entrance_n into_o it_o by_o faith_n and_o hope_n the_o most_o be_v stranger_n thereunto_o if_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v nothing_o will_v be_v more_o natural_a unto_o we_o than_o to_o have_v many_o thought_n of_o eternal_a thing_n as_o those_o wherein_o all_o our_o own_o principal_n concern_v do_v lie_n as_o well_o as_o those_o which_o be_v excellent_a and_o glorious_a in_o themselves_o the_o direction_n thereon_o be_v that_o we_o will_v make_v heavenly_a thing_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o blessedness_n and_o glory_n a_o principal_a object_n of_o our_o thought_n that_o we_o will_v think_v much_o about_o they_o that_o we_o
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
a_o discriminate_a character_n of_o believer_n this_o be_v no_o heaven_n unto_o any_o other_o those_o who_o have_v not_o a_o experience_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o these_o thing_n in_o their_o initial_a state_n in_o this_o world_n and_o their_o incomparable_a transcendency_n unto_o all_o other_o thing_n can_v conceive_v how_o heavenly_a glory_n and_o blessedness_n shall_v consist_v in_o they_o unskilful_a man_n may_v cast_v away_o rough_a unwrought_a diamond_n as_o useless_a stone_n they_o know_v not_o what_o polish_n will_v bring_v they_o unto_o nor_o do_v man_n unskilful_a in_o the_o mystery_n of_o godliness_n judge_v there_o can_v be_v any_o glory_n in_o rough_a unwrought_a grace_n they_o know_v not_o what_o lustre_n and_o beauty_n the_o polish_n of_o the_o heavenly_a hand_n will_v give_v unto_o it_o it_o be_v general_o suppose_v that_o however_o man_n differ_v in_o and_o about_o religion_n here_o yet_o they_o agree_v well_o enough_o about_o heaven_n they_o will_v all_o go_v to_o the_o same_o heaven_n but_o it_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n they_o differ_v in_o nothing_o more_o they_o will_v not_o all_o go_v to_o the_o same_o heaven_n how_o few_o be_v they_o who_o value_v that_o heavenly_a state_n which_o we_o have_v treat_v of_o or_o do_v understand_v how_o any_o blessedness_n can_v consist_v in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o it_o but_o this_o and_o no_o other_o heaven_n will_v we_o go_v unto_o other_o notion_n there_o may_v be_v there_o be_v of_o it_o which_o be_v but_o fruit_n and_o effect_n of_o man_n own_o imagination_n the_o more_o they_o dwell_v in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o they_o the_o more_o carnal_a they_o may_v grow_v at_o best_a the_o more_o superstitious_a but_o spiritual_a thought_n of_o this_o heaven_n consist_v principal_o in_o freedom_n from_o all_o sin_n in_o the_o perfection_n of_o all_o grace_n in_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o all_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n as_o manifest_v in_o he_o be_v a_o effectual_a mean_n for_o the_o improvement_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o the_o increase_n of_o all_o grace_n in_o we_o for_o they_o can_v but_o effect_v a_o assimilation_n in_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n unto_o the_o thing_n contemplate_v on_o where_o the_o principle_n and_o seed_n of_o they_o be_v already_o inlay_v and_o begin_v this_o be_v our_o first_o direction_n second_o have_v fix_v right_a notion_n and_o apprehension_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o our_o mind_n it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o think_v and_o contemplate_v great_o on_o they_o and_o our_o own_o concernment_n in_o they_o without_o this_o all_o our_o speculation_n concern_v the_o nature_n of_o eternal_a thing_n will_v be_v of_o no_o use_n unto_o we_o and_o unto_o your_o encouragement_n and_o direction_n take_v these_o few_o short_a rule_n relate_v unto_o this_o duty_n 1._o here_o lie_v the_o great_a trial_n whether_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v or_o no_o by_o virtue_n of_o this_o rule_n if_o we_o be_v rise_v with_o christ_n we_o will_v mind_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o col._n 3.3_o 2._o here_o lie_v the_o great_a mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v attain_v further_a degree_n in_o that_o bless_a frame_n of_o mind_n if_o it_o be_v already_o form_v in_o we_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o rule_n behold_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n as_o in_o a_o glass_n we_o be_v change_v into_o the_o same_o image_n from_o glory_n to_o glory_n 2_o cor._n 3.18_o 3._o here_o lie_v the_o great_a evidence_n whether_o we_o have_v a_o real_a interest_n in_o the_o thing_n above_o or_o no_o whether_o we_o place_v our_o portion_n and_o blessedness_n in_o they_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o rule_n where_o our_o treasure_n be_v there_o will_v our_o heart_n be_v also_o be_v they_o our_o treasure_n our_o portion_n our_o reward_n in_o comparison_n whereof_o all_o other_o thing_n be_v but_o loss_n and_o dung_n we_o shall_v assure_o be_v conversant_a in_o our_o mind_n about_o they_o 4._o it_o can_v be_v imagine_v that_o a_o man_n shall_v have_v in_o he_o a_o principle_n cognate_n and_o suit_v unto_o thing_n above_o of_o the_o same_o kind_a and_o nature_n with_o they_o that_o his_o soul_n shall_v be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o those_o habit_n of_o grace_n which_o strive_v and_o natural_o tend_v unto_o perfection_n labour_v great_o here_o under_o the_o weight_n of_o their_o own_o weakness_n as_o it_o be_v with_o all_o who_o be_v true_o spiritual_o mind_a and_o yet_o not_o have_v his_o thought_n great_o exercise_v about_o these_o thing_n 1_o joh._n 3.3_o it_o be_v well_o if_o we_o will_v try_v ourselves_o by_o thing_n of_o so_o uncontrollable_a evidence_n what_o can_v any_o object_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o these_o thing_n or_o the_o necessity_n of_o this_o duty_n if_o it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o we_o it_o be_v from_o one_o of_o these_o two_o cause_n either_o we_o be_v not_o convince_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o they_o or_o we_o have_v no_o delight_n in_o they_o because_o we_o be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v do_v we_o think_v that_o man_n may_v turmoyl_v themselves_o in_o earthly_a thought_n all_o the_o day_n long_o and_o when_o they_o be_v free_v of_o their_o affair_n betake_v themselves_o unto_o those_o that_o be_v vain_a and_o useless_a without_o any_o state_v converse_n with_o thing_n above_o and_o yet_o enjoy_v life_n and_o peace_n we_o must_v take_v other_o measure_n of_o thing_n if_o we_o intend_v to_o live_v unto_o god_n to_o be_v like_o he_o and_o to_o come_v unto_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o what_o be_v the_o matter_n with_o man_n that_o they_o be_v so_o stupid_a they_o all_o general_o desire_v to_o go_v to_o heaven_n at_o least_o when_o they_o can_v live_v here_o no_o long_o some_o indeed_o have_v no_o other_o regard_n unto_o it_o but_o only_o that_o they_o will_v not_o go_v to_o hell_n but_o most_o will_v die_v the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o have_v their_o latter_a end_n like_o he_o yet_o few_o there_o be_v who_o endeavour_n to_o attain_v a_o right_a notion_n of_o it_o to_o try_v how_o it_o be_v suit_v unto_o their_o principle_n and_o desire_n but_o content_v themselves_o with_o such_o general_a notion_n of_o it_o as_o please_v their_o imagination_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o such_o person_n seldom_o exercise_v their_o mind_n or_o thought_n about_o it_o nor_o do_v they_o so_o much_o as_o pretend_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v but_o as_o for_o those_o who_o be_v instruct_v in_o these_o thing_n who_o profess_v their_o chief_a interest_n to_o lie_v in_o they_o not_o to_o abound_v in_o meditation_n concern_v they_o it_o argue_v indeed_o that_o whatever_o they_o profess_v they_o be_v earthly_a and_o carnal_a again_o meditate_v and_o think_v of_o the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n so_o as_o to_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o opposite_a state_n of_o death_n and_o eternal_a misery_n few_o man_n care_v to_o think_v much_o of_o hell_n and_o the_o everlasting_a torment_n of_o the_o wicked_a therein_o those_o do_v so_o least_o who_o be_v in_o most_o danger_n of_o fall_v thereinto_o they_o put_v far_o from_o they_o the_o evil_a day_n and_o suppose_v their_o covenant_n with_o death_n and_o hell_n to_o be_v sure_a some_o begin_v to_o advance_v a_o opinion_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o place_n because_o it_o be_v their_o interest_n and_o desire_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v none_o some_o out_o of_o profaneness_n make_v a_o scoff_n at_o it_o as_o though_o a_o future_a judgement_n be_v but_o a_o fable_n most_o seem_v to_o think_v that_o there_o be_v a_o severity_n in_o thought_n about_o it_o which_o it_o be_v not_o fit_a we_o shall_v be_v too_o much_o terrify_v withal_o some_o transient_a thought_n they_o will_v have_v of_o it_o but_o not_o suffer_v they_o to_o abide_v in_o their_o mind_n lest_o they_o shall_v be_v too_o much_o discompose_v or_o they_o think_v it_o not_o consistent_a with_o the_o goodness_n of_o christ_n to_o leave_v any_o man_n in_o that_o condition_n whereas_o there_o be_v more_o speak_v direct_o of_o hell_n its_o torment_n and_o their_o eternity_n by_o himself_o self_n 〈◊〉_d in_o all_o the_o scripture_n beside_o these_o thought_n â—â—â—…ost_o proceed_v from_o a_o unwillingness_n to_o be_v trouble_v 〈◊〉_d their_o sin_n and_o be_v useful_a unto_o none_o it_o be_v the_o height_n of_o folly_n for_o man_n to_o endeavour_v the_o hide_v of_o themselves_o for_o a_o few_o moment_n from_o that_o which_o be_v unavoidable_o come_v upon_o they_o unto_o eternity_n and_o the_o due_a consideration_n whereof_o be_v a_o mean_n for_o a_o escape_n from_o it_o but_o i_o speak_v only_o of_o true_a believer_n and_o the_o more_o they_o be_v conversant_a in_o their_o thought_n about_o the_o future_a estate_n of_o eternal_a misery_n the_o great_a evidence_n they_o have_v of_o the_o life_n and_o confidence_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n
to_o consider_v it_o as_o what_o we_o be_v by_o nature_n obnoxious_a unto_o as_o be_v child_n of_o wrath_n what_o we_o have_v deserve_v by_o our_o personal_a sin_n as_o the_o wage_n of_o sin_n be_v death_n what_o we_o be_v deliver_v from_o through_o jesus_n the_o deliverer_n who_o save_v we_o from_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v what_o expression_n it_o be_v of_o the_o indignation_n of_o god_n against_o sin_n who_o have_v prepare_v this_o tophet_n of_o old_a that_o we_o may_v be_v deliver_v from_o sin_n keep_v up_o to_o a_o abhorrency_n of_o it_o walk_v in_o humility_n self-abasement_n and_o the_o admiration_n of_o divine_a grace_n this_o therefore_o be_v require_v of_o we_o that_o in_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n we_o compare_v the_o state_n of_o blessedness_n and_o eternal_a glory_n as_o a_o free_a and_o absolute_a effect_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o and_o through_o christ_n jesus_n with_o that_o state_n of_o eternal_a misery_n which_o we_o have_v deserve_v and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o spark_n of_o grace_n or_o of_o holy_a thankfulness_n in_o our_o heart_n it_o will_v be_v stir_v up_o unto_o its_o due_a exercise_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v say_v that_o they_o complain_v before_o that_o they_o can_v get_v their_o mind_n fix_v on_o these_o thing_n weakness_n weariness_n darkness_n diversion_n occasion_n do_v prevalent_o obstruct_v their_o abide_n in_o such_o thought_n i_o shall_v speak_v further_o unto_o this_o afterward_o at_o present_a i_o shall_v only_o suggest_v two_o thing_n 1._o if_o you_o can_v attain_v yet_o continue_v to_o follow_v after_o get_v your_o mind_n in_o a_o perpetual_a endeavour_n after_o a_o abode_n in_o spiritual_a thought_n let_v your_o mind_n be_v rise_v towards_o they_o every_o hour_n yea_o a_o hundred_o time_n a_o day_n on_o all_o occasion_n on_o a_o continual_a sense_n of_o duty_n and_o sigh_v within_o yourselves_o for_o deliverance_n when_o you_o find_v disappointment_n or_o not_o a_o continuance_n in_o they_o it_o be_v the_o sense_n of_o that_o place_n rom._n 8.23_o 24_o 25_o 26_o 27._o 2._o take_v care_n you_o go_v not_o backward_o and_o lose_v what_o you_o have_v wrought_v if_o you_o neglect_v these_o thing_n for_o a_o season_n you_o will_v quick_o find_v yourselves_o neglect_v by_o they_o so_o i_o observe_v it_o every_o day_n in_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n whilst_o person_n keep_v up_o themselves_o to_o a_o diligent_a attendance_n on_o it_o where_o they_o find_v it_o preach_v unto_o their_o edification_n they_o find_v great_a delight_n in_o it_o and_o will_v undergo_v great_a difficulty_n for_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o it_o let_v they_o be_v divert_v from_o it_o for_o a_o season_n after_o a_o while_o it_o grow_v indifferent_a unto_o they_o any_o thing_n will_v satisfy_v they_o that_o pretend_v unto_o the_o same_o duty_n chap._n vii_o especial_a object_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n on_o the_o glorious_a state_n of_o heaven_n and_o what_o belong_v thereunto_o first_o of_o christ_n himself_o thought_n of_o heavenly_a glory_n in_o opposition_n unto_o thought_n of_o eternal_a misery_n the_o use_n of_o such_o thought_n advantage_n in_o suffering_n it_o will_v be_v unto_o our_o advantage_n have_v state_v right_a notion_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o bless_a state_n above_o in_o our_o mind_n to_o fix_v on_o some_o particular_n belong_v unto_o it_o as_o the_o especial_a object_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n as_o 1._o think_v much_o of_o he_o who_o unto_o we_o be_v the_o life_n and_o centre_n of_o all_o the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v christ_n himself_o i_o shall_v be_v very_o brief_a in_o treat_v hereof_o because_o i_o have_v design_v a_o peculiar_a treatise_n on_o this_o subject_a of_o behold_v the_o glory_n of_o christ_n both_o here_o and_o unto_o eternity_n at_o present_v therefore_o a_o few_o thing_n only_o shall_v be_v mention_v because_o on_o this_o occasion_n they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v omit_v the_o whole_a of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o state_n above_o be_v express_v by_o be_v ever_o with_o the_o lord_n where_o he_o be_v to_o behold_v his_o glory_n for_o in_o and_o through_o he_o be_v the_o beatifical_a manifestation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o glory_n make_v for_o evermore_o and_o through_o he_o be_v all_o communication_n of_o inward_a glory_n unto_o we_o the_o present_a resplendency_n of_o heavenly_a glory_n consist_v in_o his_o mediatory_a ministry_n as_o i_o have_v at_o large_a elsewhere_o declare_v and_o he_o will_v be_v the_o mean_n of_o all_o glorious_a communication_n between_o god_n and_o the_o church_n unto_o eternity_n wherefore_o if_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v we_o shall_v fix_v our_o thought_n on_o christ_n above_o as_o the_o centre_n of_o all_o heavenly_a glory_n to_o help_v we_o herein_o we_o may_v consider_v the_o thing_n that_o follow_v 1._o faith_n have_v continual_a recourse_n unto_o he_o on_o the_o account_n of_o what_o he_o do_v and_o suffer_v for_o we_o in_o this_o world_n for_o thereon_o pardon_v of_o sin_n justification_n and_o peace_n with_o god_n do_v depend_v this_o arise_v in_o the_o first_o place_n from_o a_o sense_n of_o our_o own_o want_n but_o love_n of_o he_o be_v no_o less_o necessary_a unto_o we_o than_o faith_n in_o he_o and_o although_o we_o have_v powerful_a motive_n unto_o love_n from_o what_o he_o do_v and_o be_v in_o this_o world_n yet_o the_o formal_a reason_n of_o our_o adherence_n unto_o he_o thereby_o be_v what_o he_o be_v in_o himself_o as_o he_o be_v now_o exalt_v in_o heaven_n if_o we_o rejoice_v not_o at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o present_a glory_n if_o the_o thought_n of_o it_o be_v not_o frequent_a with_o we_o and_o refresh_v unto_o we_o how_o dwell_v his_o love_n in_o we_o 2._o our_o hope_n be_v that_o ever_o long_o we_o shall_v be_v ever_o with_o he_o and_o if_o so_o it_o be_v certain_o our_o wisdom_n and_o duty_n to_o be_v here_o with_o he_o as_o much_o as_o we_o can_v it_o be_v a_o vain_a thing_n for_o any_o to_o suppose_v that_o they_o place_v their_o chief_a happiness_n in_o be_v for_o ever_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n who_o care_v not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v with_o he_o here_o as_o they_o may_v and_o the_o only_a way_n of_o our_o be_v present_a with_o he_o here_o be_v by_o faith_n and_o love_n act_v themselves_o in_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o affection_n and_o it_o be_v a_o absurd_a thing_n for_o man_n to_o esteem_v themselves_o christian_n who_o scarce_o think_v of_o christ_n all_o the_o day_n long_o yet_o some_o as_o one_o complain_v of_o old_a scarce_o ever_o think_v or_o speak_v of_o he_o but_o when_o they_o swear_v by_o his_o name_n i_o have_v read_v of_o they_o who_o have_v live_v and_o die_v in_o continual_a contemplation_n on_o he_o so_o far_o as_o the_o imperfection_n of_o our_o present_a state_n will_v admit_v i_o have_v know_v they_o i_o do_v know_v they_o who_o call_v themselves_o unto_o a_o reproof_n if_o at_o any_o time_n he_o have_v be_v many_o minute_n out_o of_o their_o thought_n and_o it_o be_v strange_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v otherwise_o with_o they_o who_o love_v he_o in_o sincerity_n yet_o i_o wish_v i_o do_v not_o know_v more_o who_o give_v evidence_n that_o it_o be_v a_o rare_a thing_n for_o they_o to_o be_v exercise_v in_o serious_a thought_n and_o meditation_n about_o he_o yea_o there_o be_v some_o who_o be_v not_o averse_a upon_o occasion_n to_o speak_v of_o god_n of_o mercy_n of_o pardon_n of_o his_o power_n and_o goodness_n who_o if_o you_o mention_v christ_n unto_o they_o with_o any_o thing_n of_o faith_n love_n trust_v in_o he_o they_o seem_v unto_o they_o as_o a_o strange_a thing_n few_o there_o be_v who_o be_v sensible_a of_o any_o religion_n beyond_o what_o be_v natural_a the_o thing_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o power_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v foolishness_n unto_o they_o take_v some_o direction_n for_o the_o discharge_v of_o this_o duty_n 1._o in_o your_o thought_n of_o christ_n be_v very_o careful_a that_o they_o be_v conceive_v and_o direct_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n lest_o you_o deceive_v your_o own_o soul_n and_o give_v up_o the_o conduct_n of_o your_o affection_n unto_o vain_a imagination_n spiritual_a notion_n befalling_a carnal_a mind_n do_v once_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o superstition_n ruin_v the_o power_n of_o religion_n a_o conviction_n man_n have_v that_o they_o must_v think_v much_o of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o this_o will_v make_v they_o conformable_a unto_o he_o but_o have_v no_o real_a evangelical_n faith_n nor_o the_o wisdom_n of_o faith_n to_o exercise_v it_o in_o their_o thought_n and_o affection_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n nor_o understanding_n what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v true_o like_a unto_o he_o they_o give_v up_o themselves_o unto_o many_o foolish_a invention_n and_o imagination_n by_o which_o they_o
think_v to_o express_v their_o love_n and_o conformity_n unto_o he_o they_o will_v have_v image_n of_o he_o which_o they_o will_v embrace_v adore_v and_o bedew_v with_o their_o tear_n they_o will_v have_v crucifix_n as_o they_o call_v they_o which_o they_o will_v carry_v about_o they_o and_o wear_v next_o unto_o their_o heart_n as_o if_o they_o resolve_v to_o lodge_v christ_n always_o in_o their_o bosom_n they_o will_v go_v in_o pilgrimage_n to_o the_o place_n where_o he_o die_v and_o rise_v again_o through_o a_o thousand_o danger_n and_o purchase_v a_o feign_a chip_n of_o a_o tree_n whereon_o he_o suffer_v at_o the_o price_n of_o all_o they_o have_v in_o the_o world_n they_o will_v endeavour_v by_o long_a thoughtfulness_n fast_n and_o watch_n to_o cast_v their_o soul_n into_o rapture_n and_o ecstasy_n wherein_o they_o fancy_v themselves_o in_o his_o presence_n they_o come_v at_o last_o to_o make_v themselves_o like_o he_o in_o get_v impression_n of_o wound_n on_o their_o side_n their_o hand_n and_o foot_n unto_o all_o these_o thing_n and_o sundry_a other_o of_o a_o alike_a nature_n and_o tendency_n do_v superstition_n abuse_v and_o corrupt_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o a_o pretence_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o truth_n for_o there_o be_v no_o more_o certain_a gospel_n truth_n than_o this_o that_o believer_n ought_v continual_o to_o contemplate_v on_o christ_n by_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o their_o thought_n and_o affection_n and_o that_o thereby_o they_o be_v change_v and_o transform_v into_o his_o image_n 2_o cor._n 3.18_o and_o we_o be_v not_o to_o forego_v our_o duty_n because_o other_o man_n have_v be_v mistake_v in_o they_o nor_o part_n with_o practical_a fundamental_a principle_n of_o religion_n because_o they_o have_v be_v abuse_v by_o superstition_n but_o we_o may_v see_v herein_o how_o dangerous_a it_o be_v to_o depart_v in_o any_o thing_n from_o the_o conduct_n of_o scripture_n light_n and_o rule_n when_o for_o want_v thereof_o the_o best_a and_o most_o noble_a endeavour_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n even_o to_o love_n christ_n and_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o he_o do_v issue_n in_o provocation_n of_o the_o high_a nature_n pray_v therefore_o that_o you_o may_v be_v keep_v unto_o the_o truth_n in_o all_o thing_n by_o a_o diligent_a attendance_n unto_o the_o only_a rule_n thereof_o and_o conscientious_a subjection_n of_o soul_n unto_o the_o authority_n of_o god_n in_o it_o for_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o suffer_v our_o affection_n to_o be_v entangle_v with_o the_o paint_n or_o artificial_a beauty_n of_o any_o way_n or_o mean_n of_o give_v our_o love_n unto_o christ_n which_o be_v not_o warrant_v by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n yet_o i_o must_v say_v that_o i_o have_v rather_o be_v among_o they_o who_o in_o the_o act_n of_o their_o love_n and_o affection_n unto_o christ_n do_v fall_v into_o some_o irregularity_n and_o excess_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o express_v it_o provide_v their_o worship_n of_o he_o be_v neither_o superstitious_a nor_o idolatrous_a than_o among_o those_o who_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v christian_n do_v almost_o disavow_v their_o have_v any_o thought_n of_o or_o affection_n unto_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n but_o there_o be_v no_o need_n that_o we_o shall_v foolish_o run_v into_o either_o of_o these_o extreme_n god_n have_v in_o the_o scripture_n sufficient_o provide_v against_o they_o both_o he_o have_v both_o show_v we_o the_o necessity_n of_o our_o diligent_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n on_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n and_o have_v limit_v out_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v so_o do_v and_o let_v our_o design_n be_v what_o they_o will_v where_o in_o any_o thing_n we_o depart_v from_o his_o prescription_n we_o be_v not_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o so_o be_v sure_a to_o lose_v all_o that_o we_o do_v wherefore_o two_o thing_n be_v require_v that_o we_o may_v thus_o think_v of_o christ_n and_o meditate_v on_o he_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n 1_o that_o the_o mean_n of_o bring_v he_o to_o mind_n be_v what_o god_n have_v promise_v and_o appoint_v 2._o that_o the_o continue_a proposal_n of_o he_o as_o the_o object_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n be_v of_o the_o same_o kind_n for_o both_o these_o end_n the_o superstitious_a mind_n of_o man_n invent_v the_o way_n of_o image_n and_o crucifix_n with_o their_o appurtenance_n before_o mention_v and_o this_o render_v all_o their_o devotion_n a_o abomination_n that_o which_o tend_v unto_o these_o end_n among_o believer_n be_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o word_n will_v you_o then_o think_v of_o christ_n as_o you_o ought_v take_v these_o two_o direction_n 1._o pray_o that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n may_v abide_v with_o you_o continual_o to_o mind_n you_o of_o he_o which_o he_o will_v do_v in_o all_o in_o who_o he_o do_v abide_v for_o it_o belong_v unto_o his_o office_n 2._o for_o more_o fix_v thought_n and_o meditation_n take_v some_o express_a place_n of_o scripture_n wherein_o he_o be_v set_v forth_o and_o propose_v either_o in_o his_o person_n office_n or_o grace_n unto_o you_o gal._n 3.1_o 4._o this_o duty_n lie_v at_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o that_o bless_a communion_n and_o intercourse_n that_o be_v between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n this_o i_o confess_v be_v despise_v by_o some_o and_o the_o very_a notion_n of_o it_o esteem_v ridiculous_a but_o they_o do_v therein_o no_o less_o than_o renounce_v christianity_n and_o turn_v the_o lord_n christ_n into_o a_o idol_n that_o neither_o know_v see_v nor_o hear_v but_o i_o speak_v unto_o they_o who_o be_v not_o utter_a stranger_n unto_o the_o life_n of_o faith_n who_o know_v not_o what_o religion_n be_v unless_o they_o have_v real_a spiritual_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n thereby_o consider_v this_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v in_o particular_a exemplify_v in_o the_o book_n of_o canticle_n there_o be_v not_o one_o instance_n of_o it_o to_o be_v find_v which_o do_v not_o suppose_v a_o continual_a thoughtfulness_n of_o he_o and_o in_o answer_n unto_o they_o as_o they_o be_v act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n wherein_o he_o be_v delight_v do_v he_o by_o his_o spirit_n insinuate_v into_o our_o mind_n and_o heart_n a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o love_n kindness_n and_o relation_n unto_o we_o the_o great_a variety_n wherein_o these_o thing_n be_v mutual_o carry_v on_o between_o he_o and_o the_o church_n the_o singular_a endearment_n which_o ensue_v thereon_o and_o bless_a estate_n in_o rest_n and_o complacency_n do_v make_v up_o the_o substance_n of_o that_o holy_a discourse_n no_o thought_n then_o of_o christ_n proceed_v from_o faith_n accompany_v with_o love_n and_o delight_n shall_v be_v lose_v they_o that_o sow_v this_o seed_n shall_v return_v with_o their_o sheaf_n christ_n will_v meet_v they_o with_o gracious_a intimation_n of_o his_o acceptance_n of_o they_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o return_v a_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o love_n unto_o they_o he_o never_o will_v be_v he_o never_o be_v behind_o with_o any_o poor_a soul_n in_o return_n of_o love_n those_o gracious_a and_o bless_a promise_n which_o he_o have_v make_v of_o come_v unto_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o of_o make_v his_o abode_n with_o they_o and_o of_o sup_v with_o they_o all_o expression_n of_o a_o gracious_a presence_n and_o intimate_a communion_n do_v all_o depend_v on_o this_o duty_n wherefore_o we_o may_v consider_v three_o thing_n concern_v these_o thought_n of_o christ._n 1._o that_o they_o be_v exceed_o acceptable_a unto_o he_o as_o the_o best_a pledge_n of_o our_o cordial_a affection_n cant._n 2.14_o o_o my_o dove_n that_o be_v in_o the_o cleft_n of_o the_o rock_n in_o the_o secret_a place_n of_o the_o stair_n let_v i_o see_v thy_o countenance_n let_v i_o hear_v thy_o voice_n for_o sweet_a be_v thy_o voice_n and_o thy_o countenance_n be_v comely_a when_o a_o soul_n through_o manifold_a discouragement_n and_o despondency_n withdraw_v and_o as_o it_o be_v hide_n itself_o from_o he_o he_o call_v to_o see_v a_o poor_a weep_n blubber_a face_n and_o to_o hear_v a_o break_a voice_n that_o scarce_o go_v beyond_o sigh_n and_o groan_n 2._o these_o thought_n be_v the_o only_a mean_n whereby_o we_o comply_v with_o the_o gracious_a intimation_n of_o his_o love_n mention_v before_o by_o they_o do_v we_o hear_v his_o knock_n know_v his_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n to_o give_v he_o entrance_n that_o he_o may_v abide_v and_o sup_v with_o we_o sometime_o indeed_o the_o soul_n be_v surprise_v into_o act_n of_o gracious_a communion_n with_o christ_n cant._n 6.11_o but_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v unless_o we_o abide_v in_o those_o way_n and_o mean_n which_o prepare_v
and_o make_v our_o soul_n meet_v for_o the_o reception_n and_o entertainment_n of_o he_o wherefore_o 3._o our_o want_n of_o experience_n in_o the_o power_n of_o this_o holy_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n arise_v principal_o from_o our_o defect_n in_o this_o duty_n i_o have_v know_v one_o who_o after_o a_o long_a profession_n of_o faith_n and_o holiness_n fall_v into_o great_a darkness_n and_o distress_n mere_o on_o this_o account_n that_o he_o do_v not_o experience_n in_o himself_o the_o sweetness_n life_n and_o power_n of_o the_o testimony_n give_v concern_v the_o real_a communication_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n unto_o and_o the_o intimation_n of_o his_o presence_n with_o believer_n he_o know_v well_o enough_o the_o doctrine_n of_o it_o but_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o it_o at_o least_o he_o understand_v there_o be_v more_o in_o it_o than_o he_o have_v experience_n of_o god_n carry_v he_o by_o faith_n through_o that_o darkness_n but_o teach_v he_o withal_o that_o no_o sense_n of_o these_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v let_v into_o the_o soul_n but_o by_o constant_a thoughtfulness_n and_o contemplation_n on_o christ._n how_o many_o bless_a visit_n do_v we_o lose_v by_o not_o be_v exercise_v unto_o this_o duty_n see_v cant._n 5.1_o 2_o 3._o sometime_o we_o be_v busy_a sometime_o careless_a and_o negligent_a sometime_o slothful_a sometime_o under_o the_o power_n of_o temptation_n so_o that_o we_o neither_o inquire_v after_o nor_o be_v ready_a to_o receive_v they_o this_o be_v not_o the_o way_n to_o have_v our_o joy_n abound_v again_o i_o speak_v now_o with_o especial_a respect_n unto_o he_o in_o heaven_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o presence_n as_o god_n and_o man_n eternal_o unite_v the_o discharge_v of_o his_o mediatory_a office_n as_o he_o be_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o present_a act_n for_o the_o church_n as_o he_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n and_o the_o true_a tabernacle_n which_o god_n have_v fix_v and_o not_o man_n the_o love_n power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o his_o intercession_n whereby_o he_o take_v care_n for_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o church_n the_o approach_n of_o his_o glorious_a come_n unto_o judgement_n be_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o daily_a thought_n and_o meditation_n let_v we_o not_o mistake_v ourselves_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v not_o to_o have_v the_o notion_n and_o knowledge_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o mind_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v constant_a no_o not_o to_o abound_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n both_o which_o may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n at_o all_o it_o be_v to_o have_v our_o mind_n real_o exercise_v with_o delight_n about_o heavenly_a thing_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o especial_o christ_n himself_o as_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n again_o so_o think_v of_o eternal_a thing_n as_o continual_o to_o lay_v they_o in_o the_o balance_n against_o all_o the_o suffering_n of_o this_o life_n this_o use_n of_o it_o i_o have_v speak_v unto_o somewhat_o before_o and_o it_o be_v necessary_a it_o shall_v be_v press_v upon_o all_o occasion_n it_o be_v very_o probable_a that_o we_o shall_v yet_o suffer_v more_o than_o we_o have_v do_v those_o who_o have_v go_v before_o we_o have_v do_v so_o it_o be_v foretell_v in_o the_o scripture_n that_o if_o we_o will_v live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n we_o must_v do_v so_o we_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o it_o and_o the_o world_n be_v prepare_v to_o bring_v it_o on_o we_o and_o as_o we_o must_v suffer_v so_o it_o be_v necessary_a unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o our_o own_o salvation_n that_o we_o suffer_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n mere_a suffering_n will_v neither_o commend_v we_o unto_o god_n nor_o any_o way_n advantage_n our_o own_o soul_n when_o we_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o eminent_a grace_n gift_n and_o privilege_n psal._n 1.29_o but_o many_o thing_n be_v require_v hereunto_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o that_o man_n suppose_v themselves_o to_o suffer_v for_o conscience_n sake_n though_o if_o we_o do_v not_o so_o all_o our_o suffering_n be_v in_o vain_a nor_o be_v it_o enough_o that_o we_o suffer_v for_o this_o or_o that_o way_n of_o profession_n in_o religion_n which_o we_o esteem_v to_o be_v true_a and_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o opposition_n unto_o what_o be_v not_o so_o the_o glory_n of_o suffering_n on_o these_o account_n sole_o have_v be_v much_o sully_v in_o the_o day_n wherein_o we_o live_v it_o be_v evident_a that_o person_n out_o of_o a_o natural_a courage_n accompany_v with_o deep_a radicate_a persuasion_n and_o have_v their_o mind_n influence_v with_o some_o sinister_a end_n may_v undergo_v thing_n hard_a and_o difficult_a in_o give_v testimony_n unto_o what_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n example_n we_o have_v have_v hereof_o in_o all_o age_n and_o in_o that_o wherein_o we_o live_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n see_v 1_o pet._n 4.14_o 15_o 16._o we_o have_v have_v enough_o to_o take_v off_o all_o paint_n and_o appearance_n of_o honour_n from_o they_o who_o in_o their_o suffering_n be_v deceive_v in_o what_o they_o profess_v but_o man_n may_v from_o the_o same_o principle_n suffer_v for_o what_o be_v indeed_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n yea_o may_v give_v their_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v therein_o and_o yet_o not_o to_o his_o glory_n nor_o their_o own_o eternal_a advantage_n wherefore_o we_o be_v due_o to_o consider_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v requisite_a to_o make_v our_o suffering_n acceptable_a unto_o god_n and_o honourable_a unto_o the_o gospel_n i_o have_v observe_v in_o many_o a_o frame_n of_o spirit_n with_o respect_n unto_o suffering_n that_o i_o never_o see_v good_a event_n of_o when_o it_o be_v try_v to_o the_o uttermost_a boldness_n confidence_n a_o pretend_a contempt_n of_o hardship_n and_o scorn_v other_o man_n who_o they_o suppose_v defective_a in_o these_o thing_n be_v the_o garment_n or_o livery_n they_o wear_v on_o this_o occasion_n such_o principle_n may_v carry_v man_n out_o in_o a_o bad_a cause_n they_o will_v never_o do_v so_o in_o a_o good_a evangelical_n truth_n will_v not_o be_v honourable_o witness_v unto_o but_o by_o evangelical_n grace_n distrust_v of_o ourselves_o a_o due_a apprehension_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o evil_n to_o be_v undergo_v and_o of_o our_o own_o frailty_n with_o continual_a prayer_n to_o be_v deliver_v from_o they_o or_o support_v under_o they_o and_o prudent_a care_n to_o avoid_v they_o without_o a_o inroad_n on_o conscience_n or_o neglect_v of_o duty_n be_v much_o better_a preparation_n for_o a_o entrance_n into_o a_o state_n of_o suffer_v many_o thing_n belong_v unto_o our_o learning_n aright_o this_o first_o and_o last_o lesson_n of_o the_o gospel_n namely_o of_o bear_v the_o cross_n or_o undergo_a all_o sort_n of_o suffering_n for_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o but_o they_o belong_v not_o unto_o our_o present_a occasion_n this_o only_o be_v that_o which_o we_o now_o press_v as_o a_o evidence_n of_o our_o sincerity_n in_o our_o suffering_n and_o a_o effectual_a mean_n to_o enable_v we_o cheerful_o to_o undergo_v they_o which_o be_v to_o have_v such_o a_o continual_a prospect_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o glory_n so_o as_o to_o lay_v it_o in_o the_o balance_n against_o all_o that_o we_o may_v undergo_v for_o 1._o to_o have_v our_o mind_n fill_v and_o possess_v with_o thought_n thereof_o will_v give_v we_o a_o alacrity_n in_o our_o entrance_n into_o suffering_n in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n other_o consideration_n will_v offer_v themselves_o unto_o our_o relief_n which_o will_v quick_o fade_v and_o disappear_v they_o be_v like_o a_o cordial_a water_n which_o give_v a_o little_a relief_n for_o a_o season_n and_o then_o leave_v the_o spirit_n to_o sink_v beneath_o what_o they_o be_v before_o it_o be_v take_v some_o relieve_v themselves_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o suffering_n they_o be_v not_o so_o great_a but_o that_o they_o may_v conflict_n with_o they_o and_o come_v off_o with_o safety_n but_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o that_o kind_n so_o small_a which_o will_v not_o prove_v too_o hard_a and_o strong_a for_o we_o unless_o we_o have_v especial_a assistance_n some_o do_v the_o same_o from_o their_o duration_n they_o be_v but_o for_o ten_o day_n or_o six_o month_n and_o then_o they_o shall_v be_v free_a some_o from_o the_o compassion_n and_o esteem_n of_o men._n these_o and_o the_o like_a consideration_n be_v apt_a to_o occur_v unto_o the_o mind_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n whether_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v or_o no._n but_o when_o our_o mind_n be_v accustom_v unto_o thought_n of_o the_o glory_n that_o shall_v be_v
and_o delight_v the_o mind_n of_o some_o man_n be_v apt_a on_o such_o occasion_n to_o be_v fill_v with_o thought_n of_o what_o they_o have_v receive_v and_o their_o affection_n to_o be_v whole_o take_v up_o with_o it_o but_o he_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a will_v immediate_o retreat_v unto_o thought_n of_o god_n place_v his_o delight_n and_o take_v up_o his_o satisfaction_n in_o he_o and_o so_o on_o the_o other_o side_n great_a distress_n prevalent_a sorrow_n strong_a pain_n violent_a distemper_n be_v apt_a of_o themselves_o to_o take_v up_o and_o exercise_v all_o the_o thought_n of_o man_n about_o they_o but_o those_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v will_v in_o and_o under_o they_o all_o continual_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o thought_n of_o god_n wherein_o they_o find_v relief_n and_o refreshment_n against_o all_o that_o they_o feel_v or_o fear_n in_o every_o state_n their_o principal_a joy_n be_v in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n 2._o that_o they_o be_v accompany_v with_o godly_a fear_n and_o reverence_n these_o be_v require_v of_o we_o in_o all_o wherein_o we_o have_v to_o do_v with_o god_n heb._n 12.28_o 29._o and_o as_o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o more_o abound_v with_o precept_n unto_o any_o duty_n so_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n and_o our_o own_o with_o the_o infinite_a distance_n between_o they_o make_v it_o indispensable_o necessary_a even_o in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o natural_a conscience_n infinite_a greatness_n infinite_a holiness_n infinite_a power_n all_o which_o god_n be_v command_v the_o uttermost_a reverential_a fear_n that_o our_o nature_n be_v capable_a of_o the_o want_n hereof_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o innumerable_a evil_n yea_o indeed_o of_o all_o that_o be_v so_o hence_o be_v blasphemous_a abuse_n of_o the_o holy_a name_n of_o god_n in_o curse_a oath_n and_o execration_n hence_o it_o be_v take_v in_o vain_a in_o ordinary_a exclamation_n hence_o be_v all_o formality_n in_o religion_n it_o be_v the_o spiritual_a mind_n alone_o that_o can_v reconcile_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v prescribe_v we_o as_o our_o duty_n towards_o god_n to_o delight_n and_o rejoice_v in_o he_o always_o to_o triumph_v in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o he_o to_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o he_o with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n be_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n prescribe_v unto_o we_o and_o on_o the_o other_o it_o be_v so_o that_o we_o fear_v and_o tremble_v before_o he_o that_o we_o fear_v that_o great_a and_o dreadful_a name_n the_o lord_n our_o god_n that_o we_o have_v grace_n to_o serve_v he_o with_o reverence_n and_o godly_a fear_n because_o he_o be_v a_o consume_a fire_n these_o thing_n carnal_a reason_n can_v comprehend_v no_o consistency_n in_o what_o it_o be_v afraid_a of_o it_o can_v delight_v in_o and_o what_o it_o delight_v in_o it_o will_v not_o long_o fear_v but_o the_o consideration_n of_o faith_n concern_v what_o god_n be_v in_o himself_o and_o what_o he_o will_v be_v unto_o we_o give_v these_o different_a grace_n their_o distinct_a operation_n and_o a_o bless_a reconciliation_n in_o our_o soul_n wherefore_o all_o our_o thought_n of_o god_n ought_v to_o be_v accompany_v with_o a_o holy_a awe_n and_o reverence_n from_o a_o due_a sense_n of_o his_o greatness_n holiness_n and_o power_n two_o thing_n will_v utter_o vitiate_v all_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o render_v they_o useless_a unto_o we_o 1._o vain_a curiosity_n 2._o carnal_a boldness_n it_o be_v inimaginable_a how_o the_o subtle_a disquisition_n and_o dispute_n of_o man_n about_o the_o nature_n property_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n have_v be_v corrupt_v render_v sapless_a and_o useless_a by_o vain_a curiosity_n and_o strive_v for_o a_o artificial_a accuracy_n in_o the_o expression_n of_o man_n apprehension_n when_o the_o wit_n and_o mind_n of_o man_n be_v engage_v in_o such_o thought_n god_n be_v not_o in_o all_o their_o thought_n even_o when_o all_o their_o thought_n be_v concern_v he_o when_o once_o man_n be_v get_v into_o their_o metaphysical_a curiosity_n and_o logical_a nicety_n in_o their_o contemplation_n about_o god_n and_o his_o divine_a property_n they_o bid_v farewell_n for_o the_o most_o part_n unto_o all_o godly_a fear_n and_o reverence_n other_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o carnal_a boldness_n that_o they_o think_v of_o god_n with_o no_o other_o respect_n than_o if_o they_o think_v of_o worm_n of_o the_o earth_n like_o themselves_o there_o be_v no_o holy_a awfulness_n upon_o their_o mind_n and_o soul_n in_o the_o mention_n of_o his_o name_n by_o these_o thing_n may_v our_o thought_n of_o god_n be_v so_o vitiate_v that_o the_o heart_n shall_v not_o in_o they_o be_v affect_v with_o a_o reverence_n of_o he_o nor_o any_o evidence_n be_v give_v that_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v it_o be_v this_o holy_a reverence_n that_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o bring_v in_o sanctify_a virtue_n into_o our_o soul_n from_o god_n upon_o our_o thought_n of_o he_o none_o that_o think_v of_o god_n with_o a_o due_a reverence_n but_o he_o shall_v be_v sensible_a of_o advantage_n by_o it_o hereby_o do_v we_o sanctify_v god_n in_o our_o access_n unto_o he_o and_o when_o we_o do_v so_o he_o will_v sanctify_v and_o purify_v our_o heart_n by_o those_o very_a thought_n in_o which_o we_o draw_v nigh_o to_o he_o we_o may_v have_v many_o sudden_a occasional_a transient_a thought_n of_o god_n that_o be_v not_o introduce_v into_o our_o mind_n by_o a_o precede_a reverential_n fear_n but_o if_o they_o leave_v not_o that_o fear_n on_o our_o heart_n in_o proportion_n unto_o their_o continuance_n with_o we_o they_o be_v of_o no_o value_n but_o will_v insensible_o habituate_v we_o unto_o a_o common_a bold_a frame_n of_o spirit_n which_o he_o despise_v so_o be_v it_o in_o the_o case_n of_o thought_n of_o a_o contrary_a nature_n thought_n of_o sin_n of_o sinful_a object_n may_v arise_v in_o our_o mind_n from_o the_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n or_o be_v occasion_v by_o the_o temptation_n and_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n if_o these_o be_v immediate_o reject_v and_o cast_v out_o of_o we_o the_o soul_n be_v not_o more_o prejudice_v by_o their_o entrance_n than_o it_o be_v advantage_v by_o their_o rejection_n through_o the_o power_n of_o grace_n but_o if_o they_o make_v frequent_a return_n into_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n or_o make_v any_o abode_n or_o continuance_n in_o their_o solicit_n of_o the_o affection_n they_o great_o defile_v the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n dispose_v the_o person_n unto_o the_o further_a entertainment_n of_o they_o so_o if_o our_o occasional_a thought_n of_o god_n do_v immediate_o leave_v we_o and_o pass_v away_o without_o much_o affect_v our_o mind_n we_o shall_v have_v little_a or_o no_o benefit_n by_o they_o but_o if_o by_o their_o frequent_a visit_n and_o some_o continuance_n with_o we_o they_o dispose_v soul_n unto_o a_o holy_a reverence_n of_o god_n they_o be_v a_o bless_a mean_n of_o promote_a our_o sanctification_n without_o this_o i_o say_v there_o may_v be_v thought_n of_o god_n unto_o no_o advantage_n of_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v implant_v on_o our_o nature_n such_o a_o sense_n of_o a_o divine_a power_n and_o presence_n as_o that_o on_o all_o sudden_a occasion_n and_o surprisal_n it_o will_v act_v itself_o according_a unto_o that_o sense_n and_o apprehension_n there_o be_v vox_fw-la naturae_fw-la clamantis_fw-la ad_fw-la dominum_fw-la naturae_fw-la a_o voice_n in_o nature_n itself_o upon_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v sudden_o too_o hard_o for_o it_o which_o cry_v out_o immediate_o unto_o the_o god_n of_o nature_n so_o man_n on_o such_o occasion_n without_o any_o consideration_n be_v surprise_v into_o a_o call_n on_o the_o name_n of_o god_n and_o cry_v unto_o he_o and_o from_o the_o same_o natural_a apprehension_n it_o be_v that_o wicked_a and_o profane_a person_n will_v break_v forth_o on_o all_o occasion_n into_o curse_a swear_v by_o his_o name_n so_o man_n in_o such_o way_n have_v thought_n of_o god_n without_o either_o reverence_n or_o godly_a fear_n without_o give_v any_o glory_n unto_o he_o and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n unto_o their_o own_o disadvantage_n such_o be_v all_o thought_n of_o god_n that_o be_v not_o accompany_v with_o holy_a fear_n and_o reverence_n there_o be_v scarce_o any_o duty_n that_o ought_v at_o present_a to_o be_v more_o press_v on_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n than_o this_o of_o keep_v up_o a_o constant_a holy_a reverence_n of_o god_n in_o all_o wherein_o they_o have_v to_o do_v with_o he_o both_o in_o private_a and_o public_a in_o their_o inward_a thought_n and_o outward_a communication_n formality_n have_v so_o prevail_v on_o religion_n and_o that_o under_o the_o most_o effectual_a mean_n of_o its_o suppression_n that_o very_o many_o do_v manifest_a that_o they_o have_v little_a or_o no_o reverence_n of_o god_n in_o the_o most_o solemn_a duty_n of_o his_o worship_n and_o less_o it_o may_v be_v in_o their_o secret_a
day_n of_o our_o trial_n this_o be_v the_o first_o thing_n wherein_o we_o may_v evidence_n ourselves_o unto_o ourselves_o to_o be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n or_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o i_o have_v insist_v the_o long_a on_o it_o because_o it_o contain_v the_o first_o sensible_a egress_n of_o the_o spring_n of_o live_a water_n in_o we_o the_o first_o act_v of_o spiritual_a life_n unto_o our_o own_o experience_n i_o shall_v now_o proceed_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o our_o affection_n of_o who_o frame_n and_o state_n these_o thought_n be_v the_o only_a genuine_a exposition_n but_o whereas_o there_o be_v or_o may_v be_v some_o who_o be_v sensible_a of_o their_o own_o weakness_n and_o deficiency_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o that_o part_n of_o this_o duty_n in_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v which_o we_o have_v pass_v through_o and_o may_v fall_v under_o discouragement_n thereon_o we_o must_v follow_v he_o as_o we_o be_v able_a who_o will_v not_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n nor_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n by_o offer_v something_o unto_o the_o relief_n of_o they_o that_o be_v sincere_a under_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o own_o weakness_n chap._n x._o sundry_a thing_n tender_v unto_o such_o as_o complain_v that_o they_o know_v not_o how_o that_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o abide_v in_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o spiritual_a or_o heavenly_a thing_n for_o their_o relief_n instruction_n and_o direction_n rule_n concern_v state_v spiritual_a meditation_n some_o will_v say_v yea_o many_o on_o all_o occasion_n do_v say_v that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n in_o all_o their_o duty_n towards_o god_n wherein_o they_o be_v more_o at_o a_o loss_n than_o they_o be_v in_o this_o one_o of_o fix_v or_o exercise_v their_o thought_n or_o meditation_n on_o thing_n heavenly_a or_o spiritual_a they_o acknowledge_v knowledge_n it_o a_o duty_n they_o see_v a_o excellency_n in_o it_o with_o inexpressible_a usefulness_n but_o although_o they_o often_o try_v and_o attempt_v it_o they_o can_v attain_v unto_o any_o thing_n but_o what_o make_v they_o ashamed_a both_o of_o it_o and_o themselves_o their_o mind_n they_o find_v be_v unsteady_a apt_a to_o rove_v and_o wander_v or_o give_v entertainment_n unto_o other_o thing_n and_o not_o to_o abide_v on_o the_o object_n which_o they_o design_v their_o meditation_n towards_o their_o ability_n be_v small_a their_o invention_n barren_a their_o memory_n frail_a and_o their_o judgement_n to_o dispose_v of_o thing_n into_o right_a order_n weak_a and_o unable_a they_o know_v not_o what_o to_o think_v on_o for_o the_o most_o part_n and_o when_o they_o fix_v on_o any_o thing_n they_o be_v immediate_o at_o loss_n as_o unto_o any_o progress_n and_o so_o give_v over_o hence_o other_o thought_n or_o thought_n of_o other_o thing_n take_v advantage_n to_o impose_v themselves_o on_o they_o and_o what_o begin_v in_o spiritual_a meditation_n end_v in_o carnal_a vanity_n on_o these_o consideration_n ofttimes_o they_o be_v discourage_v to_o enter_v on_o the_o duty_n ofttimes_o give_v it_o over_o so_o soon_o as_o it_o be_v begin_v and_o be_v glad_a if_o they_o come_v off_o without_o be_v loser_n by_o their_o endeavour_n which_o often_o befall_v they_o with_o respect_n unto_o other_o duty_n it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o they_o unto_o such_o as_o be_v real_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n unto_o who_o their_o want_n and_o defect_n be_v a_o burden_n who_o mourn_v under_o it_o and_o desire_v to_o be_v free_v from_o it_o or_o refresh_v in_o their_o conflict_n with_o it_o i_o shall_v offer_v the_o thing_n that_o ensue_v 1._o that_o sense_n of_o the_o vanity_n of_o our_o mind_n which_o this_o consideration_n due_o attend_v unto_o will_v give_v we_o ought_v great_o to_o humble_a and_o abase_v our_o soul_n whence_o be_v it_o thus_o with_o we_o that_o we_o can_v abide_v in_o thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a it_o be_v because_o they_o be_v such_o thing_n as_o we_o have_v no_o great_a concernment_n in_o it_o may_v be_v they_o be_v thing_n worthless_a and_o unprofitable_a so_o that_o it_o be_v to_o purpose_n to_o spend_v our_o thought_n about_o they_o the_o truth_n be_v they_o alone_o be_v worthy_a useful_a and_o desirable_a all_o other_o thing_n in_o comparison_n of_o they_o be_v but_o loss_n and_o dung_n or_o it_o be_v because_o the_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v not_o original_o suit_v unto_o the_o contemplation_n of_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o this_o also_o be_v otherwise_o they_o be_v all_o give_v unto_o we_o all_o create_v of_o god_n for_o this_o end_n all_o fit_v with_o inclination_n and_o power_n to_o abide_v with_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n without_o aversation_n or_o weariness_n nothing_o be_v so_o natural_a easy_a and_o pleasant_a unto_o they_o as_o steadiness_n in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o work_n the_o cause_n therefore_o of_o all_o this_o evil_a lie_n at_o our_o own_o door_n all_o this_o therefore_o and_o all_o other_o evil_n come_v upon_o we_o by_o the_o entrance_n of_o sin_n and_o therefore_o solomon_n in_o his_o enquiry_n after_o all_o the_o cause_n and_o effect_n of_o vanity_n bring_v it_o under_o this_o head_n lo_o this_o only_o have_v i_o find_v that_o god_n make_v man_n upright_o but_o they_o have_v seek_v out_o many_o invention_n eccles._n 7.29_o for_o hereby_o our_o mind_n that_o be_v create_v in_o a_o state_n of_o bless_a adherence_n unto_o god_n where_o whole_o turn_v off_o from_o he_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o fill_v with_o enmity_n against_o he_o in_o this_o state_n that_o vanity_n which_o be_v prevalent_a in_o they_o be_v both_o their_o sin_n and_o their_o punishment_n their_o sin_n in_o a_o perpetual_a inclination_n unto_o thing_n vain_a foolish_a sensual_a and_o wicked_a so_o the_o apostle_n describe_v it_o at_o large_a ephes._n 4.17_o 18_o 19_o tit._n 3.3_o and_o their_o punishment_n in_o that_o be_v turn_v off_o from_o the_o chief_a good_a wherein_o alone_a rest_n be_v to_o be_v find_v they_o be_v fill_v with_o darkness_n confusion_n and_o disquietment_n be_v like_o a_o trouble_a sea_n that_o can_v rest_v who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt_n by_o grace_v our_o mind_n be_v renew_v that_o be_v change_v and_o deliver_v from_o this_o frame_n but_o they_o be_v so_o partial_o only_a the_o principle_n of_o vanity_n be_v no_o long_o predominant_a in_o we_o to_o alienate_v we_o from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n or_o to_o keep_v we_o in_o enmity_n against_o he_o those_o who_o be_v so_o renew_v do_v not_o walk_v in_o the_o vanity_n of_o their_o mind_n as_o other_o do_v ephes._n 4.17_o they_o go_v up_o and_o down_o in_o all_o their_o way_n and_o occasion_n with_o a_o stream_n of_o vain_a thought_n in_o their_o mind_n but_o the_o remainder_n of_o it_o be_v effectual_o operative_a in_o we_o in_o all_o the_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n towards_o god_n affect_v they_o with_o uncertainty_n and_o instability_n as_o he_o who_o have_v receive_v a_o great_a wound_n in_o any_o principal_a part_n of_o his_o body_n though_o it_o may_v be_v so_o cure_v as_o that_o death_n shall_v not_o immediate_o ensue_v thereon_o yet_o it_o may_v make_v he_o go_v weak_a and_o lame_a all_o his_o day_n and_o hinder_v he_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o the_o power_n of_o life_n the_o vanity_n of_o our_o mind_n be_v so_o cure_v as_o to_o deliver_v we_o from_o spiritual_a death_n but_o yet_o such_o a_o wound_n such_o a_o weakness_n do_v remain_v as_o both_o weaken_v and_o hinder_v we_o in_o all_o the_o operation_n of_o spiritual_a life_n hence_o those_o who_o have_v make_v any_o progress_n in_o grace_n be_v sensible_a of_o their_o vanity_n as_o the_o great_a burden_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o do_v groan_n after_o such_o a_o complete_a renovation_n of_o their_o mind_n as_o whereby_o they_o may_v be_v perfect_o free_v from_o it_o this_o be_v that_o which_o they_o principal_o regard_v in_o that_o complain_v desire_n rom._n 7.24_o o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o this_o body_n of_o death_n yea_o they_o groan_v under_o a_o sense_n of_o it_o every_o day_n nor_o be_v any_o thing_n such_o a_o trouble_n unto_o they_o observe_v how_o it_o defeat_v they_o in_o their_o design_n to_o contemplate_v on_o heavenly_a thing_n how_o it_o frustrate_v their_o best_a resolution_n to_o abide_v in_o the_o spiritual_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n how_o they_o be_v impose_v on_o by_o it_o with_o the_o thought_n of_o thing_n which_o either_o in_o themselves_o or_o in_o their_o consequence_n they_o most_o abhor_v nothing_o be_v they_o so_o afraid_a of_o nothing_o be_v so_o grievous_a and_o burdensome_a unto_o they_o nothing_o do_v they_o more_o groan_n for_o deliverance_n from_o when_o there_o be_v war_n
in_o any_o place_n it_o behove_v they_o that_o be_v concern_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n and_o regard_n unto_o all_o their_o enemy_n and_o their_o attempt_n against_o they_o but_o if_o they_o be_v vigilant_a and_o diligent_a in_o their_o oppositition_n unto_o those_o that_o be_v without_o that_o visible_o contend_v with_o they_o and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n neglect_v such_o as_o traitorous_o act_v within_o among_o themselves_o betray_v their_o counsel_n and_o weaken_v their_o strength_n they_o will_v be_v undoubted_o ruin_v wise_a man_n do_v first_o take_v care_n of_o what_o be_v within_o as_o know_v if_o they_o be_v there_o betray_v all_o they_o do_v against_o their_o open_a enemy_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n in_o the_o warfare_n wherein_o we_o be_v engage_v we_o have_v enemy_n of_o all_o sort_n that_o open_o and_o visible_o in_o various_a temptation_n fight_v against_o our_o soul_n these_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o watch_v against_o to_o conflict_n with_o and_o to_o seek_v a_o conquest_n over_o but_o it_o be_v this_o internal_a vanity_n of_o mind_n that_o endeavour_n in_o all_o thing_n to_o betray_v we_o to_o weaken_v we_o in_o all_o our_o grace_n or_o to_o hinder_v their_o due_a operation_n and_o to_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n unto_o our_o curse_a enemy_n if_o our_o principal_a endeavour_n be_v not_o to_o discover_v suppress_v and_o destroy_v this_o traitor_n we_o shall_v not_o succeed_v in_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n this_o therefore_o be_v the_o original_a cause_n of_o all_o that_o disabilty_a of_o mind_n as_o unto_o steadiness_n in_o holy_a thought_n and_o meditation_n whereof_o you_o do_v complain_v when_o you_o be_v affect_v therewith_o turn_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o that_o from_o whence_o it_o do_v proceed_v labour_v to_o be_v humble_v great_o and_o to_o walk_v humble_o under_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o remainder_n of_o this_o vanity_n of_o mind_n so_o some_o wholesome_a fruit_n may_v be_v take_v from_o this_o bitter_a root_n and_o meat_n may_v come_v out_o of_o this_o eater_n if_o when_o you_o can_v abide_v in_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o your_o relation_n unto_o he_o you_o reflect_v on_o this_o cause_n of_o it_o to_o your_o further_a humiliation_n and_o self-abasement_n your_o good_a design_n and_o purpose_n be_v not_o lose_v let_v such_o a_o one_o say_v i_o begin_v to_o think_v of_o god_n of_o his_o love_n and_o grace_n in_o christ_n jesus_n of_o my_o duty_n towards_o he_o and_o where_o now_o in_o a_o few_o minute_n do_v i_o find_v myself_o i_o be_o get_v into_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n into_o thing_n useless_a and_o earthly_a or_o be_o at_o such_o a_o loss_n as_o that_o i_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o proceed_v in_o the_o work_n wherein_o i_o be_v engage_v o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o what_o a_o curse_a enemy_n have_v i_o within_o i_o i_o be_o ashamed_a of_o myself_o weary_a of_o myself_o loathe_v myself_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o this_o body_n of_o death_n such_o thought_n may_v be_v as_o useful_a unto_o he_o as_o those_o which_o he_o first_o design_v true_a it_o be_v we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v absolute_o from_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o vanity_n and_o instability_n of_o mind_n in_o this_o world_n vnchangeable_n cleave_v unto_o god_n always_o in_o all_o the_o power_n and_o affection_n of_o our_o mind_n be_v reserve_v for_o heaven_n but_o yet_o great_a degree_n may_v be_v attain_v in_o the_o conquest_n and_o expulsion_n of_o it_o such_o as_o i_o fear_v few_o have_v experience_n of_o yet_o ought_v all_o to_o the_o labour_n after_o if_o we_o apply_v ourselves_o as_o we_o ought_v to_o the_o increase_n of_o spiritual_a light_n and_o grace_n if_o we_o labour_v diligent_o to_o abide_v and_o abound_v in_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o that_o in_o love_n to_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o if_o we_o watch_v against_o the_o entertainment_n and_o approbation_n of_o such_o thought_n and_o thing_n in_o our_o mind_n as_o whereby_o this_o vain_a frame_n be_v please_v and_o confirm_v there_o be_v though_o not_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n yet_o a_o bless_a degree_n of_o heavenly_a mindedness_n to_o be_v attain_v and_o therein_o the_o near_a approach_n unto_o glory_n that_o in_o this_o world_n we_o be_v capable_a of_o if_o a_o man_n can_v attain_v a_o athletic_a constitution_n of_o health_n or_o a_o strength_n like_o that_o of_o samson_n yet_o if_o he_o be_v wise_a he_o will_v not_o omit_v the_o use_n of_o such_o mean_n as_o may_v make_v he_o to_o be_v useful_a in_o the_o ordinary_a duty_n of_o life_n and_o although_o we_o can_v attain_v perfection_n in_o this_o matter_n which_o yet_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o be_v continual_o press_v after_o yet_o if_o we_o be_v wise_a will_v be_v endeavour_v such_o a_o cure_n of_o this_o spiritual_a distemper_n as_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o discharge_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o life_n of_o god_n but_o if_o man_n in_o all_o other_o thing_n feed_v the_o vanity_n of_o their_o own_o mind_n if_o they_o permit_v they_o to_o rove_v continual_o after_o thing_n foolish_a sensual_a and_o earthly_a if_o they_o wilful_o supply_v they_o with_o object_n unto_o that_o end_n and_o labour_v not_o by_o all_o mean_n for_o the_o mortification_n of_o this_o evil_a frame_n in_o vain_a shall_v they_o desire_v or_o expect_v to_o bring_v they_o at_o any_o time_n on_o any_o occasion_n to_o be_v steady_a in_o the_o thought_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n if_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o any_o as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v it_o be_v with_o many_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o mind_v the_o word_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o first_o place_n make_v the_o tree_n good_a and_o then_o the_o fruit_n will_v be_v good_a and_o not_o before_o when_o the_o power_n of_o sanctify_a grace_n have_v make_v the_o mind_n habitual_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thought_n of_o such_o thing_n will_v be_v natural_a unto_o it_o and_o accompany_v with_o delight_n but_o they_o will_v not_o be_v so_o until_o the_o god_n of_o peace_n have_v sanctify_v we_o in_o our_o whole_a spirit_n soul_n and_o body_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v preserve_v blameless_a unto_o the_o come_n of_o jesus_n christ._n 2._o be_v always_o sensible_a of_o your_o own_o insufficincy_n to_o raise_v in_o your_o mind_n or_o to_o manage_v spiritual_a thought_n or_o thought_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a in_o a_o due_a manner_n but_o in_o this_o case_n man_n be_v apt_a to_o suppose_v that_o as_o they_o may_v so_o they_o can_v think_v of_o what_o they_o please_v thought_n be_v their_o own_o and_o therefore_o be_v they_o of_o what_o sort_n they_o will_v they_o need_v no_o assistance_n for_o they_o they_o can_v think_v as_o they_o ought_v they_o can_v do_v nothing_o at_o all_o and_o nothing_o will_v convince_v they_o of_o their_o folly_n until_o they_o be_v burden_v with_o a_o experience_n of_o the_o contrary_a as_o unto_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o the_o advice_n give_v be_v express_o lay_v down_o by_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o instance_n of_o himself_o 2_o cor._n 3.5_o not_o that_o we_o be_v sufficient_a of_o ourselves_o to_o think_v any_o thing_n as_o of_o ourselves_o but_o our_o sufficiency_n be_v of_o god_n he_o speak_v principal_o of_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o of_o such_o as_o be_v most_o eminent_o furnish_v with_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o grace_n as_o he_o declare_v v_o 6._o and_o if_o it_o be_v so_o with_o they_o and_o that_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o work_n and_o duty_n of_o their_o call_v how_o much_o more_o be_v it_o so_o with_o other_o who_o have_v not_o their_o grace_n nor_o their_o office_n wherefore_o if_o man_n without_o regard_n unto_o the_o present_a actual_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o the_o supply_n of_o his_o spirit_n do_v suppose_v that_o they_o can_v of_o themselves_o exercise_v their_o mind_n in_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o so_o only_o fret_v at_o themselves_o when_o they_o fall_v into_o disappointment_n not_o know_v what_o be_v the_o matter_n with_o they_o they_o will_v live_v in_o a_o lifeless_a barren_a frame_n all_o their_o day_n by_o the_o strength_n of_o their_o natural_a ability_n man_n may_v frame_v thought_n of_o god_n and_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o their_o mind_n according_a unto_o the_o knowledge_n they_o have_v of_o they_o they_o may_v methodize_v they_o by_o rule_n of_o art_n and_o express_v they_o elegant_o unto_o other_o but_o even_o while_o they_o do_v so_o they_o may_v be_v far_o enough_o from_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o there_o may_v be_v in_o their_o thought_n no_o act_n of_o faith_n love_n or_o holy_a delight_n in_o god_n or_o any_o grace_n at_o all_o but_o such_o alone_o be_v thing_n which_o we_o inquire_v after_o they_o be_v such_o only_a as_o wherein_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n
be_v in_o their_o proper_a exercise_n with_o respect_n unto_o they_o we_o have_v no_o sufficiency_n in_o ourselves_o all_o our_o sufficiency_n must_v be_v of_o god_n there_o be_v no_o truth_n among_o person_n of_o light_n and_o knowledge_n more_o general_o grant_v in_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o than_o this_o that_o of_o ourselves_o we_o can_v do_v nothing_o and_o none_o more_o neglect_v in_o daily_a practice_n man_n profess_v they_o can_v do_v nothing_o of_o themselves_o and_o yet_o go_v about_o their_o duty_n as_o if_o they_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n 3._o remember_v that_o i_o have_v not_o at_o present_a treat_v of_o solemn_a state_v meditation_n concern_v which_o other_o rule_n and_o instruction_n ought_v to_o be_v give_v by_o solemn_a or_o state_v meditation_n i_o intend_v the_o thought_n of_o some_o subject_a spiritual_a and_o divine_a with_o the_o fix_v force_v and_o order_v our_o thought_n about_o it_o with_o a_o design_n to_o affect_v our_o own_o heart_n and_o soul_n with_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o or_o the_o thing_n contain_v in_o it_o by_o this_o design_n it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o study_n of_o the_o word_n wherein_o our_o principal_a aim_n be_v to_o learn_v the_o truth_n or_o to_o declare_v it_o unto_o other_o and_o so_o also_o from_o prayer_n whereof_o god_n himself_o be_v the_o immediate_a object_n but_o in_o meditation_n it_o be_v the_o affect_v of_o our_o own_o heart_n and_o mind_n with_o love_n delight_n and_o humiliation_n at_o present_a i_o have_v only_o show_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o that_o in_o this_o instance_n of_o our_o thought_n as_o they_o proceed_v from_o the_o habitual_a frame_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o affection_n or_o of_o what_o sort_n the_o constant_a course_n of_o our_o thought_n ought_v to_o be_v with_o respect_n unto_o all_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o life_n of_o god_n this_o person_n may_v be_v in_o a_o readiness_n for_o who_o be_v yet_o unskilful_a in_o and_o unable_a for_o state_v meditation_n for_o there_o be_v require_v thereunto_o such_o a_o exercise_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n and_o ability_n as_o some_o through_o their_o weakness_n and_o ignorance_n be_v incapable_a of_o but_o as_o unto_o what_o we_o have_v hitherto_o insist_v on_o it_o be_v not_o unattainable_a by_o any_o in_o who_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n for_o it_o be_v but_o the_o frequent_a act_n of_o they_o that_o i_o intend_v wherefore_o do_v your_o heart_n and_o affection_n lead_v you_o unto_o many_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v they_o spring_v up_o in_o you_o as_o water_n in_o a_o well_o of_o live_a water_n be_v you_o ready_a on_o all_o occasion_n to_o entertain_v such_o thought_n and_o to_o be_v conversant_a with_o they_o as_o opportunity_n do_v offer_v itself_o do_v you_o labour_v to_o have_v in_o a_o readiness_n what_o be_v useful_a for_o you_o with_o respect_n unto_o temptation_n and_o duty_n be_v god_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o ordinary_a retreat_n of_o your_o soul_n though_o you_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o carry_v on_o a_o orderly_o state_v meditation_n in_o your_o mind_n yet_o you_o may_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v a_o man_n may_v not_o have_v a_o capacity_n and_o ability_n to_o carry_v on_o a_o great_a trade_n of_o merchandise_n in_o the_o world_n the_o knowledge_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o commodity_n and_o season_n of_o the_o world_n and_o nation_n of_o it_o with_o those_o contrivance_n and_o account_n which_o belong_v unto_o such_o trade_n may_v be_v above_o his_o comprehension_n and_o he_o may_v quick_o ruin_v himself_o in_o undertake_v such_o a_o employment_n yet_o may_v the_o ability_n of_o this_o man_n serve_v he_o well_o enough_o to_o carry_v on_o a_o retail_n trade_n in_o a_o private_a shop_n wherein_o perhaps_o he_o may_v thrive_v as_o well_o and_o get_v as_o good_a a_o estate_n as_o any_o of_o those_o who_o great_a capacity_n lead_v they_o forth_o unto_o more_o large_a and_o hazardous_a employment_n so_o it_o may_v be_v with_o some_o in_o this_o case_n the_o natural_a faculty_n of_o their_o mind_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o enable_v they_o unto_o state_v meditation_n they_o can_v cast_v thing_n into_o that_o method_n and_o order_n which_o be_v require_v thereunto_o nor_o frame_v the_o conception_n of_o their_o mind_n into_o word_n significant_a and_o expressive_a yet_o as_o unto_o frequency_n of_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o a_o disposition_n of_o mind_n thereunto_o they_o may_v thrive_v and_o be_v skilful_a beyond_o most_o other_o of_o great_a natural_a ability_n howbeit_o because_o even_o state_v meditation_n be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n yea_o the_o principal_a way_n whereby_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n do_v profitable_o act_v themselves_o i_o shall_v have_v regard_n thereunto_o in_o the_o follow_a direction_n wherefore_o 4._o whatever_o principle_n of_o grace_n we_o have_v in_o our_o mind_n we_o can_v attain_v unto_o a_o ready_a exercise_n of_o it_o in_o a_o way_n of_o spiritual_a meditation_n or_o otherwise_o without_o great_a diligence_n nor_o without_o great_a difficulty_n it_o be_v show_v at_o the_o entrance_n of_o this_o discourse_n that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o this_o grace_n between_o the_o essence_n substance_n or_o reality_n of_o it_o which_o we_o will_v not_o exclude_v man_n from_o under_o many_o fail_n or_o infirmity_n and_o the_o useful_a degree_n of_o it_o wherein_o it_o have_v its_o principal_a exercise_n as_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o life_n natural_a and_o its_o act_n in_o a_o weak_a disease_v sickly_a body_n and_o in_o that_o which_o be_v of_o a_o good_a constitution_n and_o in_o a_o vigorous_a health_n suppose_v the_o first_o the_o reality_n of_o this_o grace_n be_v wrought_v in_o we_o or_o implant_v in_o our_o mind_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o a_o principal_a part_n of_o that_o new_a nature_n which_o be_v the_o workmanship_n of_o god_n create_v in_o christ_n jesus_n unto_o good_a work_n yet_o unto_o the_o growth_n and_o improvement_n of_o it_o as_o of_o all_o other_o grace_n our_o own_o diligent_a care_n watchfulness_n and_o spiritual_a strive_v in_o all_o holy_a duty_n be_v require_v unless_o the_o most_o fruitful_a ground_n be_v manure_v it_o will_v not_o bring_v forth_o a_o useful_a crop_n let_v not_o any_o think_v that_o this_o frame_n of_o a_o spiritual_a mind_n wherein_o there_o be_v a_o disposition_n unto_o and_o a_o readiness_n for_o all_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n of_o christ_n of_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n at_o all_o time_n and_o on_o all_o occasion_n will_v befall_v he_o and_o continue_v with_o he_o he_o know_v not_o how_o as_o good_a it_o be_v for_o a_o poor_a man_n to_o expect_v to_o be_v rich_a in_o this_o world_n without_o industry_n or_o a_o weak_a man_n to_o be_v strong_a and_o healthy_a without_o food_n and_o exercise_n as_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v without_o a_o earnest_a endeavour_n after_o it_o it_o may_v be_v inquire_v what_o be_v requisite_a thereunto_o and_o we_o may_v name_v some_o of_o those_o thing_n without_o which_o such_o a_o holy_a frame_n will_v not_o be_v attain_v as_o 1._o a_o continual_a watch_n be_v to_o be_v keep_v in_o and_o on_o the_o soul_n against_o the_o incursion_n of_o vain_a thought_n and_o imagination_n especial_o in_o such_o season_n wherein_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o obtain_v advantage_n if_o they_o be_v suffer_v to_o make_v a_o inroad_n into_o the_o mind_n if_o we_o accustom_v ourselves_o to_o give_v they_o entertainment_n if_o they_o be_v wont_n to_o lodge_v within_o in_o vain_a shall_v we_o hope_v or_o desire_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v herein_o consist_v a_o principal_a part_n of_o that_o duty_n which_o our_o saviour_n so_o frequent_o so_o emphatical_o charge_v on_o we_o all_o namely_o to_o watch_n mark_v 3.37_o unless_o we_o keep_v a_o strict_a watch_n herein_o we_o shall_v be_v betray_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n for_o all_o such_o thought_n be_v but_o make_v provision_n for_o the_o flesh_n to_o fulfil_v its_o desire_n in_o the_o lust_n thereof_o however_o they_o may_v be_v disappoint_v as_o unto_o actual_a sin_n this_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o advice_n give_v we_o in_o charge_n prov._n 4.23_o keep_v thy_o heart_n with_o all_o diligence_n for_o out_o of_o it_o be_v the_o issue_n of_o life_n 2._o careful_a avoidance_n of_o all_o society_n and_o business_n of_o this_o life_n which_o be_v apt_a under_o various_a pretence_n to_o draw_v and_o seduce_v the_o mind_n unto_o a_o earthly_a or_o sensual_a frame_n if_o man_n will_v venture_v on_o those_o thing_n which_o they_o have_v find_v by_o experience_n or_o may_v find_v by_o observation_n that_o they_o seduce_v and_o draw_v off_o their_o mind_n from_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n unto_o that_o which_o be_v contrary_a thereunto_o and_o will_v not_o watch_v unto_o
upon_o a_o design_n that_o will_v be_v easy_o or_o it_o may_v be_v honest_o defeat_v man_n be_v able_a to_o defend_v themselves_o in_o their_o calling_n and_o enjoyment_n and_o to_o satisfy_v their_o conscience_n against_o any_o persuasion_n to_o the_o contrary_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o season_n wherein_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o part_n with_o all_o we_o have_v and_o give_v up_o ourselves_o whole_o to_o follow_v christ_n in_o all_o thing_n math._n 19.21_o and_o if_o we_o neglect_v or_o refuse_v it_o in_o that_o season_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o we_o be_v hypocrite_n and_o there_o be_v a_o time_n when_o superstition_n have_v so_o much_o power_n on_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n that_o multitude_n be_v persuade_v to_o forsake_v to_o give_v up_o all_o their_o interest_n in_o relation_n calling_n good_n possession_n and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o tedious_a pilgrimage_n yea_o hard_a service_n in_o war_n to_o comply_v with_o that_o superstition_n and_o it_o be_v not_o the_o glory_n of_o our_o profession_n that_o we_o have_v so_o few_o instance_n of_o man_n part_v with_o all_o and_o give_v up_o themselves_o unto_o heavenly_a retirement_n but_o i_o be_o at_o present_a on_o no_o such_o design_n i_o aim_v not_o to_o take_v man_n out_o of_o their_o lawful_a earthly_a occasion_n but_o to_o bring_v spiritual_a affection_n and_o thought_n into_o the_o management_n of_o they_o all_o the_o thing_n mention_v will_v deprive_v you_o of_o no_o time_n you_o can_v lay_v a_o claim_n unto_o but_o sanctify_v it_o all_o i_o confess_v he_o must_v be_v a_o great_a proficient_a in_o spirituality_n who_o dare_v venture_v on_o a_o absolute_a retirement_n and_o he_o must_v be_v well_o satisfy_v that_o he_o be_v not_o call_v unto_o a_o usefulness_n among_o man_n inconsistent_a therewith_o unto_o they_o it_o may_v prove_v a_o disadvantage_n yet_o this_o also_o be_v attainable_a if_o other_o circumstance_n do_v concur_v man_n under_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o improvement_n of_o it_o may_v attain_v unto_o that_o fixedness_n in_o heavenly-mindedness_a that_o inconcernment_n in_o all_o thing_n here_o below_o as_o to_o give_v themselves_o up_o entire_o and_o continual_o unto_o heavenly_a meditation_n unto_o a_o bless_a advancement_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o a_o near_a approach_n unto_o glory_n and_o i_o will_v hope_v it_o be_v so_o with_o many_o of_o they_o in_o ancient_a time_n who_o renounce_v the_o world_n with_o all_o circumstance_n of_o relation_n state_n inheritance_n and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o retirement_n in_o wilderness_n to_o abide_v always_o in_o divine_a contemplation_n but_o afterward_o when_o multitude_n who_o mind_n be_v not_o so_o prepare_v by_o a_o real_a growth_n in_o all_o grace_n and_o mortification_n unto_o the_o world_n as_o they_o be_v betake_v themselves_o under_o the_o same_o pretence_n unto_o a_o monastical_a retirement_n the_o devil_n the_o world_n sensual_a lust_n superstition_n and_o all_o manner_n of_o evil_n pursue_v they_o find_v they_o out_o possess_v they_o unto_o the_o unspeakable_a damage_n and_o scandal_n of_o religion_n this_o therefore_o be_v not_o that_o which_o i_o invite_v the_o common_a sort_n of_o believer_n unto_o let_v they_o that_o be_v able_a and_o free_a receive_v it_o the_o generality_n of_o christian_n have_v lawful_a calling_n employment_n and_o business_n which_o ordinary_o they_o ought_v to_o abide_v in_o that_o they_o also_o may_v live_v unto_o god_n in_o their_o occasion_n they_o may_v do_v well_o to_o consider_v two_o thing_n 1._o industry_n in_o man_n calling_n be_v a_o thing_n in_o itself_o very_o commendable_a if_o in_o nothing_o else_o it_o have_v a_o advantage_n herein_o that_o it_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o preserve_v man_n from_o those_o excess_n in_o lust_n and_o riot_n which_o otherwise_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o run_v into_o and_o if_o you_o consider_v the_o two_o sort_n of_o man_n whereinto_o the_o generality_n of_o mankind_n be_v distribute_v namely_o of_o they_o who_o be_v industrious_a in_o their_o affair_n and_o those_o who_o spend_v their_o time_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v able_a in_o idleness_n and_o pleasure_n the_o former_a sort_n be_v far_o more_o amiable_a and_o desirable_a howbeit_o it_o be_v capable_a of_o be_v great_o abuse_v earthly-mindedness_a covetousness_n devour_v thing_n holy_a as_o to_o time_n and_o season_n of_o duty_n uselessness_n and_o the_o like_a pernicious_a vice_n do_v invade_v and_o possess_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n there_o be_v no_o lawful_a call_v that_o do_v absolute_o exclude_v this_o grace_n of_o be_v spiritualy-minded_n in_o they_o that_o be_v engage_v in_o it_o nor_o any_o that_o do_v include_v it_o man_n may_v be_v in_o the_o mean_a of_o lawful_a calling_n and_o be_v so_o and_o man_n may_v be_v in_o the_o best_a and_o high_a and_o not_o be_v so_o consider_v the_o call_v of_o the_o ministry_n the_o work_n and_o duty_n of_o it_o call_v on_o those_o that_o be_v employ_v in_o it_o to_o have_v their_o mind_n and_o thought_n conversant_a about_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n they_o be_v to_o study_v about_o they_o to_o meditate_v on_o they_o to_o commit_v they_o unto_o memory_n to_o speak_v they_o out_o unto_o other_o it_o will_v be_v say_v sure_o such_o man_n must_v needs_o be_v spiritually-minded_n if_o they_o go_v no_o further_o than_o what_o be_v mention_v i_o say_v they_o must_v needs_o be_v so_o as_o printer_n must_v needs_o be_v learned_a who_o be_v continual_o conversant_a about_o letter_n a_o man_n may_v with_o great_a industry_n engage_v himself_o in_o these_o thing_n and_o yet_o his_o mind_n be_v most_o remote_a from_o be_v spiritual_a the_o event_n do_v declare_v that_o it_o may_v be_v so_o and_o the_o reason_n of_o it_o be_v manifest_a it_o require_v as_o much_o if_o not_o more_o watchfulness_n more_o care_n more_o humility_n for_o a_o minister_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o the_o discharge_v of_o his_o call_v than_o to_o any_o sort_n of_o man_n in_o they_o and_o that_o as_o for_o other_o reason_n so_o because_o the_o commonness_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o such_o thought_n with_o their_o design_n upon_o other_o in_o their_o expression_n will_v take_v off_o their_o power_n and_o efficacy_n and_o he_o will_v have_v little_a benefit_n by_o his_o own_o ministy_a who_o endeavour_v not_o in_o the_o first_o place_n a_o experience_n in_o his_o own_o heart_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o truth_n which_o he_o do_v teach_v unto_o other_o and_o there_o be_v evident_o as_o great_a a_o fail_v herein_o among_o we_o as_o among_o any_o other_o sort_n of_o christian_n as_o every_o occasion_n of_o trial_n do_v demonstrate_v 2._o although_o industry_n in_o any_o honest_a call_v be_v allowable_a yet_o unless_o man_n labour_v to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o that_o industry_n they_o have_v neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n hereunto_o all_o the_o thing_n before_o mention_v be_v necessary_a i_o know_v not_o how_o any_o of_o they_o can_v be_v abate_v yea_o more_o be_v require_v than_o be_v express_v in_o they_o if_o you_o burn_v this_o roll_n another_o must_v be_v write_v and_o many_o like_a thing_n must_v be_v add_v unto_o it_o and_o the_o objection_n from_o the_o expense_n of_o time_n in_o the_o observance_n of_o they_o be_v of_o no_o force_n for_o a_o man_n may_v do_v as_o much_o work_n while_o he_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v as_o while_o he_o be_v carnal_a spiritual_a thought_n will_v no_o more_o hinder_v you_o in_o your_o calling_n than_o those_o that_o be_v vain_a and_o earthly_a which_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n can_v find_v leisure_n for_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o employment_n if_o you_o have_v fill_v a_o vessel_n with_o chaff_n yet_o you_o may_v pour_v into_o it_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o water_n which_o will_v be_v contain_v in_o the_o same_o space_n and_o vessel_n and_o if_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o you_o shall_v take_v in_o much_o of_o the_o chaff_n of_o the_o world_n into_o your_o mind_n yet_o be_v they_o capable_a of_o such_o measure_n of_o grace_n as_o shall_v preserve_v they_o sincere_a unto_o god_n five_o this_o frame_n will_v never_o be_v preserve_v nor_o the_o duty_n mention_v be_v ever_o perform_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n unless_o we_o dedicate_v some_o part_n of_o our_o time_n peculiar_o unto_o they_o i_o speak_v unto_o they_o only_o concern_v who_o i_o suppose_v that_o they_o do_v daily_o set_v apart_o some_o portion_n of_o time_n unto_o holy_a duty_n as_o prayer_n and_o read_n of_o the_o word_n and_o they_o find_v by_o experience_n that_o it_o succeed_v well_o with_o they_o for_o the_o most_o part_n if_o they_o lose_v their_o season_n they_o lose_v their_o duty_n for_o some_o have_v complain_v that_o the_o urgency_n of_o business_n and_o multiplicity_n of_o occasion_n drive_v they_o at_o first_o from_o the_o fix_a time_n of_o their_o duty_n have_v bring_v
fail_v with_o look_v upward_o o_o lord_n i_o be_o oppress_v undertake_v for_o i_o isa._n 38.14_o when_o the_o soul_n labour_v sincere_o for_o communion_n with_o god_n but_o sink_v into_o break_a confuse_a thought_n under_o the_o weight_n of_o its_o own_o weakness_n yet_o if_o he_o look_v to_o god_n for_o relief_n his_o chatter_a and_o mourn_v will_v be_v accept_v with_o god_n and_o profitable_a unto_o himself_o 2._o supply_v the_o brokenness_n of_o your_o thought_n with_o ejaculatory_a prayer_n according_a as_o either_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o or_o your_o defect_n in_o the_o management_n of_o they_o do_v require_v so_o be_v it_o with_o hezekiah_n in_o the_o instance_n before_o mention_v where_o his_o own_o meditation_n be_v weak_a and_o break_a he_o cry_v out_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o o_o lord_n i_o be_o oppress_v undertake_v for_o i_o and_o meditation_n be_v proper_o a_o mixture_n of_o spiritual_a apprehension_n of_o god_n and_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o the_o thought_n and_o conception_n of_o the_o mind_n with_o desire_n and_o supplication_n thereon_o it_o be_v good_a and_o profitable_a to_o have_v some_o special_a design_a subject_n of_o meditation_n in_o our_o thought_n i_o have_v at_o large_a declare_v before_o what_o thing_n be_v the_o proper_a object_n of_o the_o thought_n of_o they_o that_o be_v spiritually-minded_n but_o they_o may_v be_v more_o peculiar_o consider_v as_o the_o matter_n of_o design_a meditation_n and_o they_o may_v be_v take_v out_o of_o some_o especial_a spiritual_a experience_n that_o we_o have_v late_o have_v or_o some_o warning_n we_o have_v receive_v of_o god_n or_o something_o wherewith_o we_o have_v be_v peculiar_o affect_v in_o the_o read_n or_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n or_o what_o we_o find_v the_o present_a posture_n and_o frame_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o soul_n to_o require_v or_o that_o which_o supply_v all_o most_o frequent_o the_o person_n and_o grace_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n if_o any_o thing_n of_o this_o nature_n be_v peculiar_o design_v antecedent_o unto_o this_o duty_n and_o a_o season_n be_v seek_v for_o it_o with_o respect_n thereunto_o the_o mind_n will_v be_v fix_v and_o keep_v from_o wander_v after_o variety_n of_o subject_n wherein_o it_o be_v apt_a to_o lose_v itself_o and_o bring_v nothing_o to_o perfection_n last_o be_v not_o discourage_v with_o a_o apprehension_n that_o all_o that_o you_o can_v attain_v unto_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o this_o duty_n be_v so_o little_a so_o contemptible_a as_o that_o it_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n to_o persist_v in_o it_o nor_o be_v weary_v with_o the_o difficulty_n you_o meet_v withal_o in_o its_o performance_n you_o have_v to_o do_v with_o he_o only_o in_o this_o matter_n who_o will_v not_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n nor_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n who_o will_v it_o be_v that_o none_o shall_v despise_v the_o day_n of_o small_a thing_n and_o if_o there_o be_v in_o this_o duty_n a_o ready_a mind_n it_o be_v accept_v according_a to_o what_o a_o man_n have_v and_o not_o according_a to_o what_o he_o have_v not_o he_o that_o can_v bring_v into_o this_o treasure_n only_o the_o mite_n of_o break_a desire_n and_o ejaculatory_a prayer_n so_o they_o be_v his_o best_a shall_v not_o come_v behind_o they_o who_o cast_v into_o it_o out_o of_o their_o great_a abundance_n in_o ability_n and_o skill_n to_o faint_v and_o give_v out_o because_o we_o can_v arise_v unto_o such_o a_o height_n as_o we_o aim_v at_o be_v a_o fruit_n of_o pride_n and_o unbelief_n he_o who_o find_v himself_o to_o gain_v nothing_o by_o continual_a endeavour_n after_o holy_a fix_a meditation_n but_o only_o a_o live_a active_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o vileness_n and_o unworthiness_n be_v a_o sufficient_a gainer_n by_o all_o his_o pain_n cost_n and_o charge_n but_o ordinary_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o constancy_n in_o the_o duty_n will_v give_v ability_n for_o it_o those_o who_o conscientious_o abide_v in_o its_o performance_n shall_v increase_v in_o light_n wisdom_n and_o experience_n until_o they_o be_v able_a to_o manage_v it_o with_o great_a success_n these_o few_o plain_a direction_n may_v possible_o be_v of_o some_o use_n unto_o the_o weak_a sort_n of_o christian_n when_o they_o find_v a_o disability_n in_o themselves_o unto_o the_o discharge_n of_o this_o duty_n wherein_o those_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v aught_o to_o be_v peculiar_o exercise_v part_n ii_o chap._n xi_o the_o seat_n of_o spiritual-mindedness_a in_o the_o affection_n the_o nature_n and_o use_n of_o they_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n use_v by_o god_n himself_o to_o call_v the_o affection_n of_o man_n from_o the_o world_n in_o the_o account_n give_v at_o the_o entrance_n of_o this_o discourse_n of_o what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a it_o be_v reduce_v unto_o there_o head_n the_o first_o be_v the_o habitual_a frame_n disposition_n and_o inclination_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o its_o affection_n the_o second_o be_v the_o usual_a exercise_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o its_o thought_n meditation_n and_o desire_v about_o heavenly_a thing_n whereunto_o three_o be_v add_v the_o complacency_n of_o mind_n in_o that_o relish_n and_o savour_n which_o it_o find_v in_o spiritual_a thing_n so_o think_v and_o meditate_a on_o the_o second_o of_o these_o have_v hitherto_o alone_o be_v speak_v unto_o as_o that_o which_o lead_v the_o way_n unto_o the_o other_o and_o give_v the_o most_o sensible_a evidence_n of_o the_o state_n inquire_v after_o therein_o consist_v the_o stream_n which_o rise_v in_o the_o fountain_n of_o our_o affection_n run_v into_o a_o holy_a rest_n and_o complacency_n of_o mind_n the_o first_o and_o last_o i_o shall_v now_o handle_v together_o and_o therein_o comprehend_v the_o account_n of_o what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a spiritual_a affection_n whereby_o the_o soul_n adhear_v unto_o spiritual_a thing_n take_v in_o such_o a_o savour_n and_o relish_v of_o they_o as_o wherein_o it_o find_v rest_n and_o satisfaction_n be_v the_o peculiar_a spring_n and_o substance_n of_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a this_o be_v that_o which_o i_o shall_v now_o further_o explain_v and_o confirm_v the_o great_a contest_v of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n be_v about_o the_o affection_n of_o the_o poor_a worm_n which_o we_o call_v man._n that_o the_o world_n shall_v contend_v for_o they_o be_v no_o wonder_n it_o be_v the_o best_a that_o it_o can_v pretend_v unto_o all_o thing_n here_o below_o be_v capable_a of_o no_o high_a ambition_n than_o to_o be_v possess_v of_o the_o affection_n of_o men._n and_o as_o they_o â—y_a under_o the_o curse_n it_o can_v do_v we_o no_o great_a mischief_n than_o â—y_a â—_o prevail_a in_o this_o design_n but_o that_o the_o holy_a god_n shall_v as_o it_o be_v engage_v in_o the_o contest_v and_o strive_v for_o the_o affection_n of_o man_n be_v a_o effect_n of_o infinite_a condescension_n and_o grace_n this_o he_o do_v express_o my_o son_n say_v he_o give_v i_o thy_o heart_n prov._n 23.26_o it_o be_v our_o affection_n he_o ask_v for_o and_o comparative_o nothing_o else_o to_o be_v sure_a he_o will_v accept_v of_o nothing_o from_o we_o without_o they_o the_o most_o fat_a and_o costly_a sacrifice_n will_v not_o be_v accept_v if_o it_o be_v without_o a_o heart_n all_o the_o way_n and_o method_n of_o the_o dispensation_n of_o his_o will_n by_o his_o word_n all_o the_o design_n of_o his_o effectual_a grace_n be_v suit_v unto_o and_o prepare_v for_o this_o end_n namely_o to_o recover_v the_o affection_n of_o man_n unto_o himself_o so_o he_o express_v himself_o concern_v his_o word_n deut._n 10.12_o and_o now_o israel_n what_o do_v the_o lord_n thy_o god_n require_v of_o thou_o but_o to_o fear_v the_o lord_n thy_o god_n to_o walk_v in_o all_o his_o way_n and_o to_o love_n and_o to_o serve_v the_o lord_n thy_o god_n with_o all_o thy_o heart_n and_o with_o all_o thy_o soul_n and_o as_o unto_o the_o word_n of_o his_o grace_n he_o declare_v it_o unto_o the_o same_o purpose_n deut._n 30.6_o and_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n will_v circumcise_v thy_o heart_n and_o the_o heart_n of_o thy_o seed_n to_o love_v the_o lord_n thy_o god_n with_o all_o thy_o heart_n and_o with_o all_o thy_o soul_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n all_o the_o artifices_fw-la of_o the_o world_n all_o the_o paint_v it_o put_v on_o its_o face_n all_o the_o great_a promise_v it_o make_v all_o the_o false_a appearance_n and_o attire_n it_o clothes_v itself_o withal_o by_o the_o help_n of_o satan_n have_v no_o other_o end_n but_o to_o draw_v and_o keep_v the_o affection_n of_o man_n unto_o itself_o and_o if_o the_o world_n be_v prefer_v before_o god_n in_o this_o address_n which_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o for_o our_o affection_n we_o shall_v just_o perish_v with_o the_o world_n unto_o eternity_n and_o be_v reject_v by_o he_o who_o we_o
judgement_n danger_n sickness_n apprehension_n of_o the_o approach_n of_o death_n psal._n 34_o 78.35_o 37._o these_o thing_n take_v man_n off_o for_o a_o season_n from_o their_o greedy_a delight_n in_o earthly_a thing_n and_o the_o pursuit_n of_o the_o interest_n of_o lust_n in_o make_v provision_n for_o the_o flesh._n on_o many_o other_o occasion_n by_o great_a variety_n of_o cause_n there_o may_v be_v temporary_a impression_n make_v on_o the_o affection_n that_o shall_v seem_v for_o a_o season_n to_o have_v turn_v the_o stream_n of_o they_o and_o thereon_o we_o have_v many_o who_o every_o day_n will_v be_v whole_o as_o it_o be_v for_o god_n resolve_v to_o forsake_v sin_n and_o all_o the_o pleasure_n of_o it_o but_o the_o next_o return_n unto_o all_o their_o former_a excess_n for_o this_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o those_o impression_n that_o whereas_o man_n ordinary_o be_v predominant_o act_v by_o love_n desire_v and_o delight_n which_o lead_v they_o to_o act_v according_a unto_o the_o true_a natural_a principle_n of_o the_o soul_n now_o they_o be_v for_o a_o season_n act_v by_o fear_n and_o dread_a which_o put_v a_o kind_n of_o force_n on_o all_o their_o inclination_n hereon_o they_o have_v other_o thought_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a of_o thing_n eternal_a and_o tmporal_a of_o god_n and_o their_o own_o duty_n for_o a_o season_n and_o hereon_o some_o of_o they_o may_v and_o do_v persuade_v themselves_o that_o there_o be_v a_o change_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o affection_n which_o there_o be_v not_o like_o a_o man_n who_o persuade_v himself_o that_o he_o have_v lose_v his_o ague_n because_o his_o present_a fit_a be_v over_o the_o next_o trial_n of_o temptation_n carry_v they_o away_o again_o unto_o the_o world_n and_o sin_n there_o be_v sometime_o sudden_a impression_n make_v on_o spiritual_a affection_n which_o be_v always_o of_o great_a advantage_n to_o the_o soul_n renew_v its_o engagement_n unto_o god_n and_o duty_n so_o be_v it_o with_o jacob_n gen._n 28.16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o 20._o so_o be_v it_o often_o with_o believer_n in_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o other_o occasion_n on_o all_o of_o they_o they_o renew_v their_o cleaving_n unto_o god_n with_o love_n and_o delight_n but_o the_o effect_n of_o these_o impression_n on_o unrenewed_a affection_n be_v neither_o spiritual_a nor_o durable_a yea_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o be_v but_o check_v give_v in_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n unto_o the_o rage_a of_o their_o lusts._n psal._n 9.20_o second_o they_o be_v liable_a unto_o a_o habitual_a change_n this_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o age_n give_v testimony_n to_o there_o may_v be_v a_o habitual_a change_n wrought_v in_o the_o passion_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o mind_n as_o unto_o the_o inordinate_a and_o violent_a pursuit_n of_o their_o inclination_n without_o any_o gracious_a renovation_n of_o they_o education_n philosophy_n or_o reason_n long_a affliction_n spiritual_a light_n and_o gift_n have_v wrought_v this_o change_n so_o saul_n upon_o his_o call_n to_o be_v king_n become_v another_o man._n hereby_o person_n natural_o passionate_a and_o furious_a have_v be_v make_v sedate_n and_o moderate_v and_o those_o who_o have_v be_v sensual_a have_v become_v temperate_a yea_o and_o hater_n of_o religion_n to_o be_v professor_n of_o it_o all_o these_o thing_n and_o many_o more_o of_o the_o like_a nature_n have_v proceed_v from_o a_o change_n wrought_v upon_o the_o affection_n only_o while_o the_o mind_n will_n and_o conscience_n have_v be_v total_o unsanctified_a by_o this_o change_n where_o it_o be_v alone_o no_o man_n ever_o become_v spiritually-minded_n for_o whereas_o there_o be_v two_o part_n of_o the_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n that_o whereby_o they_o be_v turn_v off_o from_o god_n and_o that_o whereby_o they_o inordinate_o cleave_v unto_o other_o thing_n their_o change_n principal_o if_o not_o only_o respect_v the_o latter_a they_o be_v bring_v into_o some_o order_n with_o respect_n unto_o present_a thing_n the_o mind_n be_v not_o continual_o toss_v up_o and_o down_o by_o they_o as_o the_o wave_n of_o the_o sea_n that_o be_v trouble_v and_o cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt_n they_o do_v not_o carry_v those_o in_o who_o they_o be_v into_o vicious_a sensual_a action_n but_o they_o allow_v they_o to_o make_v virtue_n in_o moderation_n sobriety_n temperance_n fidelity_n and_o usefulness_n in_o several_a way_n to_o be_v their_o design_n and_o it_o be_v admirable_a to_o think_v what_o degree_n of_o eminency_n in_o all_o sort_n of_o moral_a virtue_n upon_o this_o one_o principle_n of_o moderate_v the_o affection_n even_o many_o among_o the_o heathen_n attain_v unto_o but_o as_o unto_o their_o aversation_n from_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o the_o true_a spiritual_a notion_n of_o they_o they_o be_v not_o cure_v by_o this_o change_n at_o least_o this_o change_n may_v be_v and_o yet_o this_o latter_a not_o be_v wrought_v again_o this_o alteration_n do_v but_o turn_v the_o course_n or_o stream_n of_o man_n affection_n it_o do_v not_o change_v the_o nature_n of_o they_o they_o be_v the_o same_o in_o their_o spring_n and_o fountain_n as_o ever_o they_o be_v only_o they_o be_v habituate_v unto_o another_o course_n than_o what_o of_o themselves_o they_o be_v incline_v unto_o you_o may_v take_v a_o young_a whelp_n of_o the_o most_o fierce_a and_o savage_a creature_n as_o of_o a_o tiger_n or_o a_o wolf_n and_o by_o custom_n or_o usage_n make_v it_o as_o tame_v and_o harmless_a as_o any_o domestic_a creature_n a_o dog_n or_o the_o like_a but_o although_o it_o may_v be_v turn_v unto_o quite_o another_o way_n or_o course_n of_o act_v than_o what_o it_o be_v of_o itself_o incline_v unto_o yet_o its_o nature_n be_v not_o change_v and_o therefore_o frequent_o on_o occasion_n opportunity_n or_o provocation_n it_o will_v fall_v into_o its_o own_o savage_a inclination_n and_o have_v taste_v of_o the_o blood_n of_o creature_n it_o will_v never_o be_v reclaim_v so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o deprave_a affection_n of_o man_n with_o respect_n unto_o their_o change_n their_o stream_n be_v turn_v they_o be_v habituate_v unto_o a_o new_a course_n their_o nature_n be_v not_o alter_v at_o least_o not_o from_o rational_a unto_o spiritual_a from_o earthly_a unto_o heavenly_a yet_o this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v most_o beautiful_a and_o desirable_a in_o nature_n the_o glory_n of_o it_o and_o the_o utmost_a of_o its_o attainment_n he_o who_o have_v by_o any_o mean_v proceed_v unto_o such_o a_o moderation_n of_o his_o affection_n as_o to_o render_v he_o kind_n benign_a patient_a useful_a prefer_v public_a good_a before_o private_a inordinate_a and_o temperate_a in_o all_o thing_n will_v rise_v up_o in_o judgement_n against_o those_o who_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o light_n of_o grace_n do_v yet_o by_o be_v morose_n angry_a selfish_a worldly_a manifest_a that_o their_o affection_n be_v not_o subdue_v by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o grace_n wherefore_o that_o we_o may_v be_v spiritually-minded_n there_o be_v yet_o another_o work_n upon_o our_o affection_n require_v which_o be_v their_o internal_a renovation_n whereby_o not_o only_o the_o course_n of_o their_o act_n be_v change_v but_o their_o nature_n be_v alter_v and_o spiritual_o renew_v i_o intend_v that_o which_o be_v express_v in_o that_o great_a evangelical_n promise_v isai._n 17.6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o the_o wolf_n shall_v dwell_v with_o the_o lamb_n the_o leopard_n shall_v lie_v down_o with_o the_o kid_n and_o the_o calf_n and_o the_o young_a lion_n and_o the_o fatling_n together_o and_o a_o little_a child_n shall_v lead_v they_o and_o the_o cow_n and_o the_o bear_n shall_v feed_v their_o young_a one_o shall_v lie_v down_o together_o and_o the_o lion_n shall_v eat_v straw_n like_o the_o ox_n and_o the_o suck_a child_n shall_v play_v on_o the_o hole_n of_o the_o asp_n and_o the_o wean_a child_n shall_v put_v his_o hand_n on_o the_o cockatrice_n den._n they_o shall_v not_o hurt_v nor_o destroy_v in_o all_o my_o holy_a mountain_n a_o change_n and_o alteration_n be_v promise_v in_o the_o nature_n principle_n and_o first_o inclination_n of_o the_o worst_a and_o most_o savage_a sinner_n who_o pass_v under_o the_o power_n of_o gospel_n grace_n this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v require_v of_o we_o in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n ephes._n 4.13_o and_o be_v you_o renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o your_o mind_n there_o be_v a_o renovation_n of_o the_o mind_n itself_o by_o the_o communication_n of_o spiritual_n save_v light_n and_o understanding_n thereunto_o whereof_o i_o have_v treat_v elsewhere_o at_o large_a see_v rom._n 12.2_o ephes._n 1.17_o 18._o but_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o mind_n that_o whereby_o it_o be_v enliven_v lead_v and_o dispose_v unto_o its_o act_n that_o be_v to_o be_v renew_v also_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v in_o this_o place_n oppose_v unto_o
soul_n and_o body_n 1_o thes._n 5.23_o when_o we_o say_v that_o we_o be_v sanctify_v in_o part_n only_o we_o do_v not_o say_v that_o any_o part_n power_n or_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v unsanctify_v but_o only_o that_o the_o work_n be_v not_o absolute_o perfect_a in_o any_o of_o they_o all_o sin_n may_v retain_v power_n in_o some_o one_o affection_n as_o anger_n fear_v or_o love_v as_o unto_o actual_a eruption_n and_o effect_n more_o than_o in_o all_o the_o rest_n as_o one_o affection_n may_v be_v more_o eminent_o sanctify_v in_o some_o than_o in_o other_o for_o it_o may_v have_v advantage_n unto_o this_o end_n from_o man_n natural_a temper_n and_o various_a outward_a circumstance_n hence_o some_o find_v little_a difficulty_n in_o the_o mortification_n of_o all_o other_o lust_n or_o corruption_n in_o comparison_n of_o what_o they_o meet_v withal_o in_o some_o one_o inordinate_a affection_n or_o corruption_n this_o it_o may_v be_v david_n have_v regard_n unto_o psal._n 18.23_o i_o have_v know_v person_n shine_v examplary_o in_o all_o other_o grace_n who_o have_v be_v scarce_o free_a from_o give_v great_a scandal_n by_o the_o excess_n of_o their_o passion_n and_o easy_a provocation_n thereunto_o and_o yet_o they_o have_v know_v that_o the_o set_v themselves_o unto_o the_o sincere_a vigorous_a mortification_n of_o that_o disorder_n be_v the_o most_o eminent_a pledge_n of_o their_o sincerity_n in_o other_o thing_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o ourselves_o denial_n lie_v in_o the_o thing_n that_o our_o natural_a inclination_n lie_v strong_a towards_o howbeit_o as_o be_v say_v there_o be_v no_o affection_n where_o there_o be_v this_o work_n of_o renovation_n but_o it_o be_v sanctify_v and_o renew_v none_o of_o they_o be_v leave_v absolute_o unto_o the_o service_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o therefore_o whereas_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o advantage_n mention_v sin_n do_v great_o contend_v to_o use_v some_o of_o they_o unto_o its_o interest_n and_o service_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n yet_o be_v they_o enable_v unto_o &_o make_v meet_v for_o gracious_a act_n and_o do_v in_o their_o proper_a season_n put_v forth_o themselves_o according_o there_o be_v no_o affection_n of_o the_o mind_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n have_v receive_v the_o great_a damage_n that_o be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o field_n wherein_o the_o contest_v be_v manage_v between_o sin_n and_o grace_n but_o have_v its_o spiritual_a use_n and_o exercise_n when_o the_o mind_n be_v renew_v there_o be_v some_o so_o inordinate_o subject_a to_o anger_n and_o passion_n therein_o as_o if_o they_o be_v absolute_o under_o the_o power_n and_o dominion_n of_o it_o yet_o do_v they_o also_o know_v how_o to_o be_v angry_a and_o sin_v not_o in_o be_v angry_a at_o sin_n in_o themselves_o and_o other_o yea_o what_o indignation_n yea_o what_o revenge_n 2_o cor._n 7.7_o yea_o god_n be_v please_v sometime_o to_o leave_v somewhat_o more_o than_o ordinary_a of_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n in_o one_o affection_n that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o occasion_n of_o the_o continual_a exercise_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o other_o affection_n yet_o be_v they_o all_o sanctify_v in_o their_o degree_n that_o which_o be_v relieve_v as_o well_o as_o that_o which_o do_v relieve_v and_o therefore_o as_o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n in_o they_o that_o believe_v be_v call_v the_o old_a man_n which_o be_v to_o be_v crucify_v in_o all_o the_o member_n of_o it_o because_o of_o its_o adherence_n unto_o the_o whole_a person_n in_o all_o its_o power_n and_o faculty_n so_o the_o grace_n implant_v in_o our_o nature_n be_v call_v the_o new_a man_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o we_o that_o be_v not_o season_v and_o affect_v with_o it_o as_o nothing_o in_o our_o nature_n escape_v the_o taint_n of_o sin_n so_o nothing_o in_o our_o nature_n be_v accept_v from_o the_o renovation_n that_o be_v by_o grace_n he_o in_o who_o any_o one_o affection_n be_v utrer_o unrenewed_a have_v no_o one_o gracious_o renew_v in_o he_o let_v man_n take_v heed_n how_o they_o indulge_v to_o any_o deprave_a affection_n for_o it_o will_v be_v a_o unavoidable_a impeachment_n of_o their_o sincerity_n think_v not_o to_o say_v with_o naaman_n god_n be_v merciful_a unto_o i_o in_o this_o thing_n in_o all_o other_o i_o will_v be_v for_o he_o he_o require_v the_o whole_a heart_n and_o will_v have_v it_o or_o more_o the_o chief_a work_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v to_o make_v all_o his_o affection_n in_o all_o their_o operation_n subservient_fw-fr unto_fw-la the_o life_n of_o god_n rom._n 6.17_o and_o he_o who_o be_v wise_a will_v keep_v a_o continual_a watch_n over_o those_o wherein_o he_o find_v the_o great_a reluctancy_n thereunto_o and_o every_o affection_n be_v original_o sanctify_v according_a unto_o the_o use_n it_o be_v to_o be_v of_o in_o the_o life_n of_o holiness_n and_o obedience_n to_o be_v entire_a for_o god_n to_o follow_v he_o whole_o to_o cleave_v unto_o he_o with_o purpose_n of_o heart_n to_o have_v the_o heart_n circumcise_a to_o love_v he_o be_v to_o have_v all_o our_o affection_n renew_v and_o sanctify_v without_o which_o we_o can_v do_v none_o of_o they_o when_o it_o be_v otherwise_o there_o be_v a_o double_a heart_n a_o heart_n and_o a_o heart_n which_o he_o abhor_v their_o heart_n be_v divide_v now_o shall_v they_o be_v find_v faulty_a hosea_n 10.2_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o other_o change_v mention_v what_o ever_o be_v or_o may_v be_v wrought_v upon_o our_o affection_n when_o they_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v that_o very_o change_v as_o unto_o the_o degree_n of_o it_o be_v not_o universal_a it_o do_v not_o affect_v the_o whole_a mind_n in_o all_o its_o power_n and_o affection_n until_o a_o vital_a prevail_a principle_n and_o habit_n of_o grace_n be_v implant_v in_o the_o soul_n sin_n will_v not_o only_o radical_o adhere_v unto_o all_o the_o faculty_n power_n and_o affection_n but_o it_o will_v under_o any_o change_n that_o may_v befall_v they_o refer_v the_o rule_n and_o dominion_n in_o some_o of_o they_o unto_o itself_o so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o young_a man_n that_o come_v unto_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n to_o know_v what_o he_o shall_v do_v to_o obtain_v eternal_a life_n mark_n 10.17_o 18_o 19_o 20_o 21_o 22._o thus_o there_o be_v many_o who_o in_o other_o thing_n be_v reduce_v unto_o moderation_n sobriety_n and_o temperance_n yet_o there_o remain_v in_o they_o the_o love_n of_o money_n in_o a_o predominant_a degree_n which_o to_o they_o be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o evil_a as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v some_o seem_v to_o be_v religious_a but_o they_o bridle_v not_o their_o tongue_n through_o anger_n envy_n hatred_n and_o the_o like_a their_o religion_n be_v in_o vain_a the_o most_o of_o man_n in_o their_o several_a way_n of_o profession_n pretend_v not_o only_o unto_o religion_n but_o unto_o zeal_n in_o it_o yet_o set_v no_o bound_n unto_o their_o affection_n unto_o earthly_a enjoyment_n some_o of_o old_a who_o have_v most_o eminent_o in_o all_o other_o thing_n subdue_v their_o passion_n and_o affection_n be_v the_o great_a enemy_n unto_o and_o persecutor_n of_o the_o gospel_n some_o who_o seem_v to_o have_v have_v a_o mighty_a change_n wrought_v in_o they_o by_o a_o superstitious_a devotion_n do_v yet_o walk_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o cain_n towards_o all_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o principal_a devotionist_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o elsewhere_o we_o may_v see_v some_o go_v sober_o about_o the_o persecution_n and_o destruction_n of_o other_o christian_n some_o will_v cherish_v one_o secret_a lust_n or_o other_o which_o they_o can_v but_o know_v to_o be_v pernicious_a unto_o their_o soul_n some_o love_n the_o praise_n of_o man_n which_o will_v never_o permit_v they_o to_o be_v true_o spiritual_o mind_a so_o our_o saviour_n testify_v of_o some_o that_o they_o can_v not_o believe_v because_o they_o love_v the_o praise_n of_o men._n this_o be_v the_o know_a vice_n of_o all_o the_o ancient_a philosopher_n they_o have_v many_o of_o they_o on_o the_o principle_n of_o reason_n and_o by_o severe_a exercise_n subdue_v their_o affection_n unto_o great_a moderation_n about_o temporary_a thing_n but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n be_v all_o of_o they_o slave_n to_o vain_a glory_n and_o the_o praise_n of_o man_n until_o by_o the_o public_a observation_n of_o it_o and_o some_o contradiction_n in_o their_o life_n unto_o their_o pretence_n unto_o virtue_n they_o lose_v that_o also_o among_o wise_a and_o considerative_a men._n and_o general_o if_o man_n not_o spiritual_o renew_v be_v able_a to_o search_v themselves_o they_o will_v find_v that_o some_o of_o their_o affection_n be_v so_o far_o from_o have_v any_o change_n wrought_v in_o they_o as_o that_o they_o be_v a_o quiet_a habitation_n for_o sin_n where_o it_o exercise_v its_o
rule_n and_o dominion_n second_o there_o be_v a_o universality_n that_o be_v objective_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o affection_n that_o be_v affection_n spiritual_o renew_v do_v fix_v themselves_o upon_o and_o cleave_v unto_o all_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o their_o proper_a place_n and_o unto_o their_o proper_a ends._n for_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n of_o our_o adherence_n unto_o any_o one_o of_o they_o be_v the_o same_o with_o respect_n unto_o they_o all_o that_o be_v their_o relation_n unto_o god_n in_o christ._n wherefore_o when_o our_o affection_n be_v renew_v we_o make_v no_o choice_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n cleave_v unto_o some_o and_o refuse_v other_o make_v use_n of_o naaman_n restraint_n but_o our_o adherence_n be_v the_o same_o unto_o they_o all_o in_o their_o proper_a place_n and_o degree_n and_o if_o by_o reason_n of_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n we_o know_v not_o any_o of_o they_o to_o be_v from_o god_n as_o for_o instance_n the_o observation_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n it_o be_v of_o unspeakable_a disadvantage_n unto_o we_o a_o equal_a respect_n be_v require_v in_o we_o unto_o all_o god_n command_n yet_o there_o be_v various_a distinction_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o thereon_o a_o man_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o value_v one_o above_o another_o as_o unto_o the_o degree_n of_o his_o love_n and_o esteem_v although_o they_o be_v to_o be_v sincere_a with_o respect_n unto_o they_o all_o first_o god_n himself_o that_o be_v as_o revealed_z in_o and_o by_o christ_n be_v in_o the_o first_o and_o chief_a place_n the_o proper_a and_o adequate_a object_n of_o our_o affection_n as_o they_o be_v renew_v he_o be_v so_o for_o himself_o or_o his_o own_o sake_n alone_o this_o be_v the_o spring_n the_o centre_n and_o chief_a object_n of_o our_o love_n he_o that_o love_v not_o god_n for_o himself_o that_o be_v for_o what_o he_o be_v in_o himself_o and_o what_o from_o himself_o alone_o he_o be_v and_o will_v be_v unto_o we_o in_o christ_n which_o consideration_n be_v inseparable_a he_o have_v no_o true_a affection_n for_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n whatever_o and_o not_o a_o few_o do_v here_o deceive_v themselves_o or_o be_v deceive_v which_o shall_v make_v we_o the_o more_o strict_a and_o diligent_a in_o the_o examination_n of_o ourselves_o they_o suppose_v that_o they_o love_v heaven_n and_o heavenly_a thing_n and_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n which_o persuasion_n maybe_o fall_v they_o on_o many_o ground_n and_o occasion_n which_o will_v not_o endure_v the_o trial_n but_o as_o unto_o god_n himself_o they_o can_v give_v no_o evidence_n that_o they_o have_v any_o love_n to_o he_o either_o on_o the_o account_n of_o the_o glorious_a excellency_n of_o his_o nature_n with_o their_o natural_a relation_n unto_o he_o and_o dependence_n on_o he_o nor_o on_o the_o account_n of_o the_o manifestation_n of_o himself_o in_o christ_n and_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o grace_n therein_o but_o whatever_o be_v pretend_v there_o be_v no_o love_n unto_o god_n whereof_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o the_o formal_a reason_n that_o proceed_v not_o from_o these_o spring_n and_o because_o that_o all_o man_n pretend_v that_o they_o love_v god_n and_o defy_v they_o that_o think_v they_o so_o vile_a as_o not_o so_o to_o do_v though_o they_o live_v in_o open_a enmity_n against_o he_o and_o hatred_n of_o he_o it_o become_v we_o strict_o to_o examine_v ourselves_o on_o what_o ground_n we_o pretend_v so_o to_o do_v it_o be_v because_o indeed_o we_o see_v a_o excellency_n a_o beauty_n a_o desirableness_n in_o the_o glorious_a property_n of_o his_o nature_n such_o as_o our_o soul_n be_v refresh_v and_o satisfy_v with_o the_o thought_n of_o by_o faith_n and_o in_o who_o enjoyment_n our_o blessedness_n will_v consist_v so_o that_o we_o always_o rejoice_v at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n it_o be_v our_o great_a joy_n and_o satisfaction_n that_o god_n be_v what_o he_o be_v be_v it_o from_o the_o glorious_a manifestation_n that_o he_o have_v make_v of_o himself_o and_o all_o his_o holy_a excellency_n in_o christ_n with_o the_o communication_n of_o himself_o unto_o we_o in_o and_o by_o he_o if_o it_o be_v so_o indeed_o then_o be_v our_o lord_n generous_a and_o gracious_a from_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o affection_n but_o if_o we_o say_v we_o love_v god_n yet_o true_o know_v not_o why_o or_o upon_o principle_n of_o education_n and_o because_o it_o be_v esteem_v the_o height_n of_o wickedness_n to_o do_v otherwise_o we_o shall_v be_v at_o a_o loss_n when_o we_o be_v call_v unto_o our_o trial_n this_o be_v the_o first_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n second_o in_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n renew_a affection_n do_v cleave_v unto_o they_o according_a as_o god_n be_v in_o they_o god_n alone_o be_v love_v for_o himself_o all_o other_o thing_n for_o he_o in_o the_o measure_n and_o degree_n of_o his_o presence_n in_o they_o this_o alone_a give_v they_o pre-eminence_n in_o renew_a affection_n for_o instance_n god_n be_v in_o christ_n in_o the_o humane_a nature_n of_o the_o man_n christ_n jesus_n in_o a_o way_n and_o manner_n singular_a in_o concern_v a_o like_a incomprehensible_a so_o as_o he_o be_v in_o the_o same_o kind_n in_o nothing_o else_o therefore_o be_v the_o lord_n christ_n even_o as_o unto_o his_o humane_a nature_n the_o object_n of_o our_o love_n and_o affection_n in_o such_o a_o way_n and_o degree_n as_o no_o other_o thing_n spiritual_a or_o eternal_a but_o god_n himself_o be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v all_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n become_v so_o from_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n in_o they_o and_o from_o the_o degree_n of_o that_o presence_n have_v they_o their_o nature_n and_o use._n according_o be_v they_o or_o aught_o to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n as_o unto_o the_o degree_n of_o their_o exercise_n evidence_n of_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n in_o thing_n and_o person_n be_v the_o only_a attractive_n of_o renew_a affection_n three_o in_o those_o thing_n which_o seem_v to_o stand_v in_o a_o equality_n as_o unto_o what_o be_v of_o god_n in_o they_o yet_o on_o some_o especial_a occasion_n and_o reason_n our_o love_n may_v go_v forth_o eminent_o unto_o one_o more_o than_o another_o some_o particular_a truth_n with_o the_o grace_n communicate_v by_o it_o may_v have_v be_v the_o mean_n of_o our_o conversion_n unto_o god_n of_o our_o edification_n in_o a_o especial_a manner_n of_o our_o consolation_n in_o distress_n it_o can_v be_v but_o that_o the_o mind_n will_v have_v a_o peculiar_a respect_n unto_o and_o valuation_n of_o such_o truth_n and_o the_o grace_n administer_v by_o they_o and_o so_o it_o be_v as_o unto_o duty_n we_o may_v have_v find_v such_o a_o lively_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o some_o of_o they_o as_o may_v give_v we_o a_o peculiar_a delight_n in_o they_o but_o notwithstanding_o these_o difference_n affection_n spiritual_o renew_v do_v cleave_v unto_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o such_o for_o the_o true_a formal_a reason_n of_o their_o so_o do_v be_v the_o same_o in_o they_o all_o namely_o god_n in_o they_o only_o they_o have_v several_a way_n of_o act_v themselves_o towards_o they_o whereof_o i_o shall_v give_v one_o instance_n our_o saviour_n distribute_v spiritual_a thing_n into_o those_o that_o be_v heavenly_a and_o those_o that_o be_v earthly_a that_o be_v comparative_o so_o joh._n 3.12_o if_o i_o have_v tell_v you_o earthly_a thing_n and_o you_o believe_v not_o how_o shall_v you_o believe_v if_o i_o tell_v you_o of_o heavenly_a thing_n the_o heavenly_a thing_n be_v the_o deep_a and_o mysterious_a counsel_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n these_o renew_a affection_n cleave_v unto_o with_o holy_a admiration_n and_o satisfactory_a submission_n captivate_v the_o understanding_n unto_o what_o it_o can_v comprehend_v so_o the_o apostle_n declare_v it_o rom._n 11.33_o 34_o 35_o 36._o o_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o riches_n both_o of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n of_o god_n how_o unsearchable_a be_v his_o judgement_n and_o his_o way_n past_o find_v out_o for_o who_o have_v know_v the_o mind_n of_o the_o lord_n or_o who_o have_v be_v his_o councillor_n or_o who_o have_v first_o give_v to_o he_o and_o it_o shall_v be_v recompense_v to_o he_o again_o for_o of_o he_o and_o through_o he_o and_o to_o he_o be_v all_o thing_n to_o who_o be_v glory_n for_o ever_o amen_n what_o the_o mind_n can_v comprehend_v the_o heart_n do_v admire_v and_o adore_v delight_v in_o god_n and_o give_v glory_n unto_o he_o in_o all_o the_o earthly_a thing_n intend_v by_o our_o saviour_n in_o that_o place_n be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n in_o their_o regeneration_n wrought_v here_o in_o the_o earth_n towards_o these_o the_o affection_n act_v themselves_o with_o delight_n and_o with_o great_a
thanksgiving_n the_o experience_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o and_o upon_o believer_n be_v sweet_a unto_o their_o soul_n but_o one_o way_n or_o other_o they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o all_o they_o have_v not_o a_o prevail_a aversation_n unto_o any_o of_o they_o they_o have_v a_o regard_n unto_o all_o god_n precept_n a_o delight_n in_o all_o his_o counsel_n a_o love_n to_o himself_o and_o all_o his_o way_n whatever_o other_o change_n be_v wrought_v on_o the_o affection_n if_o they_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o they_o for_o as_o they_o do_v not_o cleave_v unto_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o their_o own_o true_a proper_a nature_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n because_o of_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n in_o they_o so_o there_o be_v always_o some_o of_o they_o whereunto_o those_o who_o affection_n be_v not_o renew_v do_v maintain_v a_o aversation_n and_o a_o enmity_n and_o although_o this_o frame_n do_v not_o instant_o discover_v itself_o yet_o it_o will_v do_v so_o upon_o any_o especial_a trial_n so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o hearer_n of_o our_o saviour_n joh._n 6._o there_o be_v a_o great_a impression_n make_v on_o their_o affection_n by_o what_o he_o teach_v they_o concern_v the_o bread_n of_o god_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o give_v life_n unto_o the_o world_n for_o they_o cry_v thereon_o lord_n evermore_o give_v we_o of_o this_o bread_n v_o 34._o but_o when_o the_o mystery_n of_o it_o be_v further_o explain_v unto_o they_o they_o like_v it_o not_o but_o cry_v this_o be_v a_o hard_a say_v who_o can_v bear_v it_o v_o 60_o and_o thereon_o fall_v off_o both_o from_o he_o and_o his_o doctrine_n although_o they_o have_v follow_v he_o so_o long_o as_o to_o be_v esteem_v his_o disciple_n v_o 66._o i_o say_v therefore_o whensoever_o man_n affection_n be_v not_o renew_v whatever_o other_o change_n may_v have_v be_v wrought_v upon_o they_o as_o they_o have_v no_o true_a delight_n in_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n or_o truth_n for_o themselves_o and_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n so_o there_o be_v some_o instance_n wherein_o they_o will_v maintain_v their_o natural_a enmity_n and_o aversation_n unto_o they_o this_o be_v the_o first_o difference_n between_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v and_o those_o which_o from_o any_o other_o cause_n may_v have_v some_o kind_n of_o change_n wrought_v in_o they_o chap._n xiiii_o the_o second_o difference_n between_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v and_o those_o who_o have_v be_v only_o change_v by_o light_n and_o conviction_n ground_n and_o reason_n of_o man_n delight_n in_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o of_o their_o diligence_n in_o their_o performance_n who_o mind_n be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_a the_o second_o difference_n lie_v herein_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o change_n in_o the_o affection_n wherein_o man_n may_v have_v delight_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o religious_a worship_n and_o diligence_n in_o their_o observance_n but_o it_o be_v the_o spiritual_a revovation_n of_o the_o affection_n that_o give_v delight_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n in_o any_o duty_n of_o religious_a worship_n whatever_o where_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v know_v and_o public_o profess_v there_o be_v great_a variety_n in_o the_o mind_n way_n and_o practice_n of_o man_n about_o the_o duty_n of_o religious_a worship_n many_o be_v profane_a in_o their_o mind_n and_o life_n who_o practical_o at_o least_o despise_v or_o whole_o neglect_v the_o observance_n of_o they_o these_o be_v stout_a heart_a and_o far_o from_o righteousness_n tit._n 1.16_o some_o attend_v unto_o they_o formal_o and_o coursory_o from_o the_o principle_n of_o their_o education_n and_o it_o may_v be_v out_o of_o some_o conviction_n they_o have_v of_o their_o necessity_n but_o many_o there_o be_v who_o in_o the_o way_n they_o choose_v and_o be_v please_v withal_o be_v diligent_a in_o their_o observance_n and_o that_o with_o great_a delight_n who_o yet_o give_v no_o evidence_n of_o the_o spiritual_a renovation_n of_o their_o mind_n yea_o the_o way_n whereby_o some_o express_v their_o devotion_n in_o they_o be_v superstitious_a and_o idolatrous_a be_v inconsistent_a with_o that_o or_o any_o other_o save_v grace_n this_o therefore_o we_o must_v diligent_o inquire_v into_o or_o search_v into_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n of_o man_n delight_n in_o divine_a worship_n according_a unto_o their_o conviction_n of_o the_o way_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o continue_v in_o their_o mind_n altogether_o unrenewed_a and_o 1_o man_n may_v be_v great_o affect_v with_o the_o outward_a part_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o performance_n thereof_o who_o have_v no_o delight_n in_o what_o be_v internal_a real_a and_o spiritual_a therein_o joh._n 5.35_o he_o be_v a_o burn_a and_o a_o shine_a light_n and_o you_o be_v willing_a for_o a_o season_n to_o rejoice_v in_o this_o light_n so_o many_o be_v delight_v in_o the_o preach_n of_o ezekiel_n because_o of_o his_o eloquence_n and_o elegancy_n of_o his_o parable_n chap._n 33.31_o 32._o this_o give_v they_o both_o delight_n and_o diligence_n in_o hear_v whereon_o they_o call_v themselves_o the_o people_n of_o god_n though_o they_o continue_v to_o live_v in_o sin_n their_o heart_n go_v after_o covetousness_n the_o same_o may_v befall_v many_o at_o present_a with_o reference_n unto_o the_o spiritual_a gift_n of_o those_o by_o who_o the_o word_n be_v dispense_v i_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o man_n may_v be_v more_o delight_v more_o satisfy_v with_o the_o gift_n the_o preach_a of_o one_o than_o another_o and_o yet_o be_v sincere_a in_o their_o delight_n in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n for_o they_o may_v find_v more_o spiritual_a advantage_n thereby_o than_o by_o the_o gift_n of_o other_o and_o thing_n so_o prepare_v as_o to_o be_v suit_v unto_o their_o edification_n more_o than_o elsewhere_o but_o that_o which_o at_o present_a we_o insist_v on_o have_v respect_n only_o unto_o some_o outward_a circumstance_n please_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n 2_o tim._n 2.3_o 4._o this_o be_v principal_o evident_a under_o the_o old_a testament_n while_o they_o have_v carnal_a ordinance_n and_o a_o worldly_a sanctuary_n oft_o time_n under_o that_o dispensation_n the_o people_n be_v give_v up_o unto_o all_o sort_n of_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n and_o when_o they_o be_v not_o so_o yet_o be_v the_o body_n of_o they_o carnal_a and_o unholy_a as_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o whole_a tract_n of_o god_n deal_n with_o they_o by_o his_o prophet_n and_o in_o his_o providence_n yet_o have_v they_o great_a delight_n in_o the_o outward_a solemnity_n of_o their_o worship_n place_v all_o their_o trust_n of_o acceptance_n with_o god_n therein_o they_o who_o do_v true_o and_o real_o believe_v look_v through_o they_o all_o unto_o christ_n who_o they_o do_v foresignify_v without_o which_o the_o thing_n be_v a_o yoke_n unto_o they_o and_o a_o burden_n almost_o insupportable_a act._n 15._o but_o those_o who_o be_v carnal_a delight_v in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o and_o for_o their_o sake_n reject_v he_o who_o be_v the_o life_n and_o substance_n of_o they_o all_o and_o this_o prove_v the_o great_a mean_n of_o the_o apostasy_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n also_o for_o to_o maintain_v some_o appearance_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n man_n introduce_v carnal_a incitation_n of_o they_o into_o evangelical_n worship_n such_o as_o sing_v with_o music_n and_o pompous_a ceremony_n for_o they_o find_v such_o thing_n needful_a to_o reconcile_v the_o worship_n of_o god_n unto_o their_o mind_n and_o affection_n and_o through_o they_o they_o appear_v to_o have_v great_a delight_n therein_o can_v some_o man_n but_o in_o their_o thought_n separate_v divine_a service_n from_o that_o outward_a order_n those_o method_n of_o variety_n show_v and_o melody_n wherewith_o they_o be_v affect_v they_o will_v have_v no_o delight_n in_o it_o but_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o must_v be_v endure_v how_o can_v it_o be_v otherwise_o conceive_v of_o among_o the_o papist_n they_o will_v with_o much_o earnestness_n many_o evidence_n of_o devotion_n sometime_o with_o difficulty_n and_o danger_n repair_v unto_o their_o solemn_a worship_n and_o yet_o when_o they_o be_v present_a understand_v not_o one_o word_n whereby_o their_o mind_n may_v be_v excite_v unto_o the_o real_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n only_a order_n ceremony_n music_n and_o other_o incentives_n of_o carnal_a affection_n make_v great_a impression_n on_o they_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v be_v not_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n yea_o if_o those_o in_o who_o they_o be_v shall_v be_v engage_v in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o they_o will_v find_v they_o mean_n of_o divert_v their_o mind_n from_o the_o proper_a work_n of_o divine_a worship_n rather_o than_o a_o advantage_n therein_o it_o will_v appear_v so_o unto_o themselves_o unless_o they_o
not_o prosper_v we_o may_v therefore_o do_v well_o to_o consider_v that_o the_o principal_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v sanctify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o all_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n and_o obtain_v the_o benefit_n of_o they_o to_o our_o own_o soul_n be_v by_o a_o conscientious_a approach_n unto_o they_o with_o a_o holy_a desire_n and_o design_n to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n on_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o be_v help_v and_o guide_v therein_o by_o they_o to_o be_v under_o a_o efficacious_a influence_n from_o this_o design_n be_v the_o best_a preparation_n for_o any_o duty_n so_o david_n express_v his_o delight_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n how_o amiable_a be_v thy_o tabernacle_n o_o lord_n of_o host_n my_o soul_n long_v yea_o even_o faint_v for_o the_o court_n of_o the_o lord_n my_o heart_n and_o my_o flesh_n cry_v out_o for_o the_o live_a god_n psal._n 84.1_o 2._o he_o long_v for_o the_o tabernacle_n and_o the_o court_n of_o it_o but_o it_o be_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n himself_o the_o live_a god_n that_o he_o desire_v and_o seek_v after_o this_o be_v that_o which_o make_v he_o so_o servant_n in_o his_o desire_n after_o those_o ordinance_n of_o god_n so_o he_o express_v it_o psal._n 63.2_o to_o see_v thy_o power_n and_o thy_o glory_n so_o as_o i_o have_v see_v thou_o in_o the_o sanctuary_n david_n have_v have_v great_a communion_n with_o and_o delight_n in_o god_n by_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o solemn_a duty_n of_o his_o worship_n and_o this_o be_v that_o which_o inflame_v he_o with_o desire_n after_o renew_a opportunity_n unto_o the_o same_o end_n second_o this_o design_n be_v not_o general_a unactive_a useless_a and_o slothful_a but_o such_o person_n diligent_o endeavour_v in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o ordinance_n and_o attendance_n unto_o they_o to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o these_o grace_n they_o have_v not_o only_o a_o antecedent_n design_n to_o be_v so_o but_o a_o diligent_a actual_a endeavour_n after_o it_o not_o suffer_v their_o mind_n by_o any_o thing_n to_o be_v divert_v from_o the_o pursuit_n of_o that_o design_n ecc._n 5.1_o whatever_o be_v not_o quicken_v and_o enliven_v hereby_o they_o esteem_v utter_o lose_v neither_o outward_a administration_n nor_o order_n will_v give_v they_o satisfaction_n when_o these_o thing_n be_v want_v in_o themselves_o without_o the_o internal_a act_n of_o the_o life_n of_o faith_n external_a administration_n of_o ordinance_n of_o worship_n be_v but_o dead_a thing_n nor_o can_v any_o believer_n obtain_v real_a satisfaction_n in_o they_o or_o refreshment_n by_o they_o without_o a_o inward_a experience_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o if_o we_o be_v wise_a we_o shall_v continual_o attend_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o a_o watchful_a christian_a will_v be_v careful_a lest_o he_o lose_v any_o one_o duty_n by_o take_v up_o the_o carcase_n of_o it_o and_o the_o danger_n of_o so_o do_v be_v not_o small_a our_o affection_n be_v renew_v but_o in_o part_n and_o as_o they_o be_v still_o liable_a to_o be_v divert_v and_o seduce_v from_o spirituality_n in_o duty_n even_o by_o thing_n earthly_a and_o carnal_a through_o the_o corruption_n that_o remain_v in_o they_o so_o there_o be_v a_o disposition_n abide_v in_o they_o to_o be_v please_v with_o those_o external_a thing_n in_o religious_a duty_n which_o other_o as_o we_o have_v show_v before_o who_o be_v no_o way_n gracious_o renew_v do_v satisfy_v themselves_o withal_o the_o grace_n and_o oratory_n of_o the_o speaker_n in_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n especial_o in_o these_o day_n wherein_o the_o foppery_n of_o fine_a language_n even_o in_o sacred_a thing_n be_v so_o much_o extol_v the_o order_n and_o circumstance_n of_o other_o duty_n with_o inclination_n and_o love_n unto_o a_o party_n be_v apt_a to_o insinuate_v themselves_o with_o great_a complacency_n into_o our_o affection_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v unrenewed_a and_o these_o thing_n discover_v the_o true_a ground_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n be_v so_o useless_a as_o they_o be_v to_o many_o who_o seem_v to_o attend_v unto_o they_o with_o diligence_n they_o may_v be_v refer_v unto_o these_o three_o head_n 1_o they_o do_v not_o come_v unto_o they_o as_o the_o mean_v appoint_v of_o god_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o christ_n so_o as_o to_o make_v it_o their_o design_n in_o their_o approach_n to_o they_o without_o which_o all_o that_o be_v speak_v of_o advantage_n in_o and_o by_o other_o duty_n be_v utter_o lose_v 2_o they_o do_v not_o in_o and_o under_o they_o labour_n to_o stir_v up_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o their_o due_a exercise_n 3_o they_o suffer_v their_o mind_n to_o be_v divert_v from_o the_o exercise_n of_o these_o grace_n partly_o by_o occasional_a temptation_n partly_o by_o attendance_n unto_o what_o be_v outward_a only_o in_o the_o ordinance_n themselves_o spiritual_a affection_n find_v no_o place_n of_o rest_n in_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n such_o proposal_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n of_o his_o will_n and_o their_o own_o duty_n as_o may_v draw_v out_o their_o faith_n love_n godly_a fear_n and_o delight_n into_o their_o due_a exercise_n be_v that_o which_o they_o inquire_v after_o and_o acquiesce_v in_o two_o thing_n alone_o do_v faith_n regard_n in_o all_o duty_n of_o worship_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a administration_n of_o it_o the_o one_o absolute_o the_o other_o comparative_o both_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o end_v mention_v or_o the_o exercise_n growth_n and_o increase_v of_o grace_n in_o we_o the_o first_o be_v that_o they_o may_v be_v of_o divine_a appointment_n where_o their_o original_a and_o observance_n be_v resolve_v into_o divine_a authority_n there_o and_o there_o alone_o will_v they_o have_v a_o divine_a efficacy_n in_o all_o these_o thing_n faith_n have_v regard_n to_o nothing_o but_o divine_a precept_n and_o promise_n whatever_o have_v regard_n to_o any_o thing_n else_o be_v not_o faith_n but_o fancy_n and_o therefore_o these_o uncommanded_a duty_n in_o religion_n which_o so_o abound_v in_o the_o papal_a church_n as_o that_o if_o not_o the_o whole_a yet_o all_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o their_o worship_n consist_v in_o they_o be_v such_o as_o in_o who_o discharge_v it_o be_v impossible_a faith_n shall_v be_v in_o a_o due_a exercise_n that_o which_o it_o have_v comparative_a respect_n unto_o be_v the_o spiritual_a gift_n of_o they_o unto_o who_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o public_a worship_n of_o the_o church_n be_v commit_v with_o respect_n unto_o they_o believer_n may_v have_v more_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o one_o than_o of_o another_o as_o be_v touch_v before_o but_o this_o be_v not_o because_o one_o be_v more_o learned_a than_o another_o or_o more_o elegant_a than_o another_o have_v more_o ability_n of_o speech_n than_o another_o or_o fervency_n in_o utterance_n than_o another_o be_v more_o fervent_a or_o earnest_n in_o his_o delivery_n but_o because_o they_o find_v the_o gift_n of_o one_o more_o suit_v and_o more_o effectual_a to_o stir_v up_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o a_o holy_a exercise_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o heart_n than_o what_o they_o find_v in_o some_o other_o hence_o they_o have_v a_o peculiar_a value_n for_o and_o delight_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o such_o person_n especial_o when_o they_o can_v enjoy_v it_o in_o due_a order_n and_o without_o the_o offence_n of_o other_o and_o minister_n that_o be_v wise_a will_v in_o holy_a administration_n neglect_v all_o other_o thing_fw-mi and_o attend_v unto_o this_o alone_a how_o they_o may_v be_v helpful_a unto_o the_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o joy_n of_o believer_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v the_o object_n of_o their_o ministry_n this_o be_v the_o first_o reason_n and_o ground_n whereon_o affection_n spiritually-renewed_n cleave_v unto_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n with_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n namely_o because_o they_o be_v the_o mean_v appoint_v and_o bless_a of_o god_n for_o the_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o faith_n and_o love_n with_o a_o experience_n of_o their_o efficacy_n unto_o that_o end_n second_o the_o second_o be_v because_o they_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o the_o communication_n of_o a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n and_o supply_v of_o divine_a grace_n unto_o the_o soul_n of_o they_o that_o do_v believe_v so_o far_o as_o our_o affection_n be_v renew_v this_o be_v the_o most_o principal_a attractive_a to_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n and_o complacency_n they_o be_v as_o be_v observe_v before_o the_o way_n of_o our_o approach_n unto_o god_n now_o we_o do_v not_o draw_v nigh_o to_o god_n as_o himself_o speak_v as_o a_o dry_a hearth_n or_o a_o barren_a
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
a_o signal_n contempt_n of_o the_o love_n grace_n faithfulness_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o give_v of_o we_o such_o promise_n of_o grace_n to_o make_v we_o to_o increase_v thrive_v and_o grow_v how_o can_v it_o be_v do_v more_o effectual_o than_o by_o such_o a_o neglect_n of_o his_o promise_a grace_n second_o a_o evidence_n that_o such_o person_n love_v not_o care_v not_o for_o grace_n or_o holiness_n for_o their_o own_o soul_n but_o mere_o to_o serve_v their_o turn_n at_o present_a as_o they_o suppose_v nor_o do_v desire_v the_o least_o of_o grace_n or_o privilege_n by_o christ_n without_o which_o they_o can_v have_v any_o hope_n to_o get_v to_o heaven_n this_o sufficient_o discover_v man_n to_o be_v whole_o under_o the_o power_n of_o self-love_n and_o to_o centre_n therein_o for_o if_o they_o may_v have_v so_o much_o grace_n and_o mercy_n as_o may_v save_v they_o they_o care_v for_o no_o more_o three_o it_o be_v repugnant_a unto_o the_o honour_n of_o gospel_n grace_n as_o though_o it_o will_v carry_v we_o so_o far_o and_o no_o far_o in_o the_o way_n to_o glory_n for_o it_o must_v be_v know_v that_o this_o sort_n of_o person_n who_o sit_v down_o in_o their_o present_a measure_n and_o attainment_n either_o real_o have_v no_o true_a grace_n at_o all_o or_o that_o which_o be_v of_o the_o low_a mean_a and_o most_o imperceptible_a size_n and_o degree_n for_o if_o any_o one_o have_v attain_v any_o considerable_a growth_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n in_o heavenly-mindedness_a it_o be_v utter_o impossible_a but_o that_o ordinary_o he_o will_v be_v press_v forward_o towards_o far_a attainment_n and_o far_a degree_n of_o spiritual_a strength_n in_o the_o life_n of_o god_n so_o the_o apostle_n declare_v it_o in_o his_o own_o example_n phil._n 3.10_o 11_o 12_o 13_o 14._o what_o thought_n can_v these_o person_n have_v concern_v the_o glory_n power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o gospel_n grace_n which_o they_o suppose_v they_o have_v receive_v if_o they_o measure_v they_o by_o the_o effect_n which_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o either_o as_o unto_o the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n or_o strength_n unto_o and_o delight_n in_o duty_n of_o holiness_n or_o as_o unto_o spiritual_a consolation_n they_o can_v see_v no_o excellency_n nor_o beauty_n in_o they_o for_o they_o do_v not_o manifest_v themselves_o but_o in_o their_o success_n as_o they_o transform_v the_o soul_n daily_o into_o the_o image_n of_o christ._n four_o it_o be_v that_o which_o have_v lose_v the_o reputation_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n and_o therein_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o gospel_n itself_o for_o the_o most_o of_o professor_n do_v take_v up_o with_o such_o measure_n as_o put_v no_o lustre_n upon_o it_o as_o give_v no_o commendation_n unto_o the_o religion_n they_o profess_v for_o their_o measure_n allow_v they_o such_o a_o conformity_n unto_o the_o world_n in_o their_o way_n word_n and_o action_n in_o their_o gesture_n apparel_n and_o attire_n as_o that_o they_o be_v no_o way_n visible_o to_o be_v distinguish_v from_o it_o yea_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n why_o the_o most_o do_v rest_n in_o their_o present_a measure_n be_v because_o they_o will_v not_o be_v further_o difference_v from_o the_o world_n this_o have_v great_o lose_v the_o glory_n honour_n and_o reputation_n of_o religion_n among_o we_o and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o all_o visible_a professor_n will_v endeavour_v continual_o to_o grow_v and_o thrive_v in_o spirituality_n of_o mind_n and_o heavenlyness_n of_o affection_n with_o fruit_n suit_v thereunto_o it_o will_v bring_v a_o conviction_n on_o the_o world_n that_o there_o be_v a_o secret_a invisible_a power_n accompany_v the_o religion_n they_o profess_v transform_v they_o daily_o into_o the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o god_n five_o whatever_o be_v pretend_v unto_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o all_o solid_a peace_n of_o conscience_n for_o so_o such_o thing_n be_v promise_v unto_o any_o who_o live_v in_o such_o a_o contempt_n of_o divine_a promise_n nor_o be_v it_o attainable_a but_o by_o the_o diligent_a exercise_n of_o all_o those_o grace_n which_o lie_v neglect_v under_o this_o frame_n few_o man_n be_v able_a to_o judge_v whether_o they_o have_v real_a eternal_a abide_v peace_n or_o no_o unless_o it_o be_v in_o case_n of_o trial_n and_o temptation_n at_o other_o season_n general_a hope_n and_o confidence_n do_v or_o may_v supply_v the_o want_n of_o it_o in_o their_o mind_n but_o when_o any_o fear_n danger_n trial_n or_o word_n of_o conviction_n befall_v they_o they_o can_v but_o inquire_v and_o examine_v how_o it_o be_v with_o they_o and_o if_o they_o find_v their_o affection_n cold_a dead_a earthly_a carnal_a wither_a not_o spiritual_a or_o heavenly_a there_o will_v be_v a_o end_n of_o their_o suppose_a peace_n and_o they_o will_v fall_v into_o woeful_a disquietment_n and_o they_o will_v then_o find_v that_o the_o root_n of_o all_o this_o evil_a lie_n in_o this_o frame_n and_o disposition_n they_o have_v be_v so_o far_o satisfy_v with_o their_o present_a measure_n or_o attainment_n in_o religion_n as_o that_o the_o utmost_a of_o their_o endeavour_n have_v be_v but_o to_o preserve_v their_o station_n or_o not_o to_o forfeit_v it_o by_o open_a sin_n to_o keep_v their_o soul_n alive_a from_o the_o severe_a reflection_n of_o the_o word_n and_o their_o reputation_n fair_a in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n spiritual_o to_o thrive_v to_o prosper_v in_o their_o soul_n to_o wax_v fat_a and_o flourish_a in_o the_o inward_a man_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o fruit_n as_o age_n increase_v to_o press_v towards_o perfection_n be_v thing_n they_o have_v not_o design_v nor_o pursue_v hence_o it_o be_v that_o so_o many_o among_o we_o be_v visible_o at_o a_o unthrifty_a stand_n in_o the_o world_n that_o where_o they_o be_v one_o year_n there_o they_o be_v another_o like_o shrub_n in_o the_o wilderness_n not_o like_o the_o plant_n in_o the_o garden_n of_o god_n not_o as_o vine_n plant_v in_o a_o very_a fruitful_a hill_n yea_o though_o many_o be_v sensible_a themselves_o that_o they_o be_v cold_a lifeless_a and_o fruitless_a yet_o will_v they_o not_o be_v convince_v that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o make_v a_o daily_a progress_n in_o spirituality_n and_o heavenly-mindedness_a whereby_o the_o inward_a man_n may_v be_v renew_v day_n by_o day_n and_o grace_n augment_v with_o the_o increase_n of_o god_n this_o be_v a_o work_n as_o they_o suppose_v for_o they_o who_o have_v nothing_o else_o to_o do_v not_o consistent_a with_o their_o business_n calling_n and_o occasion_n not_o necessary_a as_o they_o hope_v unto_o their_o salvation_n nor_o it_o may_v be_v to_o be_v attain_v by_o they_o if_o they_o shall_v set_v themselves_o about_o it_o this_o apprehension_n of_o imagination_n upon_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o declension_n and_o decay_v of_o christian_a religion_n in_o the_o many_o cast_v of_o all_o holiness_n and_o devotion_n unto_o a_o sort_n of_o man_n who_o undertake_v to_o retire_v themselves_o utter_o out_o of_o the_o world_n among_o who_o also_o the_o substance_n of_o religion_n be_v quick_o lose_v and_o a_o cloud_n or_o meteor_n of_o superstition_n embrace_v in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o but_o this_o folly_n be_v ominous_a unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n those_o who_o have_v make_v the_o great_a progress_n in_o the_o conformity_n of_o their_o affection_n unto_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a know_v most_o of_o its_o necessity_n excellency_n and_o desireableness_n yea_o without_o some_o progress_n in_o it_o these_o thing_n will_v not_o be_v know_v such_o will_v testify_v that_o the_o more_o they_o attain_v herein_o the_o more_o they_o see_v there_o be_v yet_o to_o be_v attain_v and_o the_o more_o they_o do_v desire_v to_o attain_v what_o be_v behind_o forget_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v behind_o they_o reach_v forth_o unto_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v yet_o before_o they_o like_o man_n run_v in_o a_o race_n who_o prize_n and_o reward_n be_v yet_o before_o they_o phil._n 3.13_o 14._o it_o be_v a_o comely_a thing_n to_o see_v a_o christian_a wean_v from_o the_o world_n mind_v heavenly_a thing_n green_a and_o flourish_a in_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o it_o be_v the_o more_o lovely_a because_o it_o be_v so_o rare_a the_o generality_n of_o they_o take_v up_o with_o those_o measure_n which_o neither_o glorify_v god_n nor_o bring_v in_o durable_a peace_n into_o their_o own_o soul_n that_o which_o man_n pretend_v and_o complain_v of_o herein_o be_v the_o difficulty_n of_o the_o work_n they_o can_v as_o they_o suppose_v preserve_v their_o present_a station_n but_o to_o press_v forward_o to_o grow_v in_o grace_n to_o thrive_v in_o their_o affection_n this_o be_v too_o hard_a for_o they_o but_o this_o complaint_n be_v unequal_a and_o unjust_a and_o add_v unto_o the_o guilt_n of_o
their_o sloth_n it_o reflect_v upon_o the_o word_n of_o our_o saviour_n that_o his_o yoke_n be_v easy_a and_o his_o burden_n light_n that_o his_o commandment_n be_v not_o grievious_a it_o experss_v unbelief_n in_o the_o promise_v of_o god_n tender_v such_o supply_n of_o grace_n as_o to_o render_v all_o the_o way_n of_o wisdom_n easy_a yea_o mercy_n and_o peace_n it_o be_v contrary_a unto_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o who_o have_v with_o any_o sincerity_n and_o diligence_n engage_v in_o the_o way_n of_o gospel_n obedience_n and_o the_o whole_a cause_n of_o the_o pretend_a difficulty_n lie_v in_o themselves_o alone_o which_o may_v be_v reduce_v unto_o these_o two_o head_n first_o a_o desire_n to_o retain_v some_o thing_n or_o thing_n that_o be_v or_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o such_o a_o progress_n for_o unless_o the_o heart_n be_v ready_a on_o all_o occasion_n to_o esteem_v every_o thing_n as_o loss_n and_o dung_n so_o as_o we_o may_v win_v christ_n the_o work_n will_v be_v accomcompany_v with_o insuperable_a difficulty_n this_o be_v the_o first_o principle_n of_o religion_n of_o gospel_n obedience_n that_o all_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v despise_v for_o christ._n but_o this_o difficulty_n arise_v not_o from_o the_o thing_n itself_o but_o from_o our_o indisposition_n unto_o it_o and_o unfitness_n for_o it_o that_o which_o be_v a_o easy_a pleasant_a walk_n unto_o a_o find_v and_o healthy_a man_n be_v a_o toilsome_a journey_n to_o he_o that_o be_v disease_v and_o infirm_a in_o particular_a whilst_o man_n will_v retain_v a_o inordinate_a respect_n unto_o the_o world_n the_o vanity_n the_o pleasure_n the_o profit_n the_o contentment_n of_o it_o while_o self-love_n put_v a_o undue_a valuation_n on_o our_o person_n our_o relation_n our_o enjoyment_n our_o reputation_n do_v cleave_v unto_o we_o we_o shall_v labour_v in_o the_o fire_n when_o we_o engage_v in_o this_o duty_n or_o rather_o we_o shall_v not_o at_o all_o sincere_o engage_v in_o it_o wherefore_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o in_o this_o case_n we_o must_v cast_v off_o every_o weight_n and_o the_o sin_n that_o do_v so_o easy_o beset_v we_o if_o we_o intend_v to_o run_v with_o joy_n the_o race_n that_o be_v set_v before_o we_o heb._n 12.1_o second_o it_o be_v because_o man_n dwell_v continual_o upon_o the_o entrance_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o first_o and_o low_a exercise_n of_o grace_n some_o be_v always_o begin_v at_o religion_n and_o the_o beginning_n of_o thing_n be_v always_o difficult_a they_o design_v not_o to_o be_v complete_a in_o the_o whole_a will_n of_o god_n nor_o to_o give_v all_o grace_n their_o perfect_a work_n they_o do_v not_o with_o use_n habituate_v grace_n unto_o a_o readiness_n in_o all_o the_o act_n of_o it_o which_o the_o apostle_n commend_v in_o they_o that_o be_v perfect_a or_o complete_a heb._n 5.14_o hence_o he_o call_v such_o person_n babe_n and_o carnal_a comparative_o unto_o they_o that_o be_v strong_a man_n and_o spirival_n such_o person_n do_v not_o oblige_v themselves_o unto_o the_o whole_a work_n and_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n but_o only_o what_o they_o judge_v necessary_a unto_o they_o in_o their_o present_a circumstance_n in_o particular_a they_o do_v not_o attempt_v a_o thorow-work_n in_o the_o mortification_n of_o any_o sin_n but_o be_v hew_v and_o hack_v at_o it_o as_o their_o conviction_n be_v urgent_a or_o abate_v the_o wound_n whereof_o in_o the_o body_n of_o sin_n be_v quick_o heal_v they_o give_v not_o any_o grace_n its_o perfect_a work_n but_o be_v always_o make_v essay_n and_o so_o give_v over_o while_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o any_o they_o shall_v always_o be_v delude_v with_o the_o apprehension_n of_o insuperable_a difficulty_n as_o to_o the_o growth_n of_o their_o affection_n in_o spirituality_n and_o heavenliness_n remove_v these_o thing_n out_o of_o the_o way_n as_o the_o aught_o to_o be_v remove_v and_o we_o shall_v find_v all_o the_o path_n wherein_o we_o be_v to_o walk_v towards_o god_n to_o be_v pleasantness_n and_o peace_n this_o be_v the_o first_o cause_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o there_o may_v be_v affection_n true_o spiritual_a and_o gracious_o renew_v in_o some_o person_n who_o yet_o do_v not_o thrive_v in_o a_o assimulation_n and_o conformity_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n man_n take_v up_o with_o their_o present_a measure_n and_o thereon_o pretend_v either_o necessary_a occasion_n or_o discouragement_n from_o difficulty_n in_o attempt_v spiritual_a growth_n in_o the_o inward_a man._n but_o they_o may_v thank_v themselves_o if_o as_o they_o bring_v no_o honour_n unto_o christ_n so_o they_o have_v no_o solid_a peace_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n second_o as_o the_o evil_n proceed_v from_o folly_n so_o it_o be_v always_o the_o consequent_a of_o sin_n of_o many_o sin_n of_o various_a sort_n let_v we_o not_o dwell_v on_o heartless_a complaint_n that_o we_o do_v not_o find_v our_o affection_n lively_a and_o heavenly_a that_o we_o do_v not_o find_v the_o inward_a man_n to_o thrive_v or_o grow_v let_v we_o not_o hearken_v after_o this_o or_o that_o relief_n or_o comfort_n under_o this_o consideration_n as_o many_o thing_n be_v usual_o insist_v on_o unto_o that_o purpose_n they_o may_v be_v of_o use_n when_o person_n be_v under_o temptation_n and_o not_o able_a to_o make_v a_o right_a judgement_n of_o themselves_o but_o in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o ordinary_a walk_v with_o god_n they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v attend_v not_o retire_v unto_o the_o general_a reason_n of_o this_o evil_a state_n be_v our_o own_o sinful_a carelessness_n negligence_n and_o sloth_n with_o perhaps_o a_o indulgence_n unto_o some_o know_a lust_n or_o corruption_n and_o we_o do_v in_o vain_a seek_v after_o refresh_a cordial_n as_o though_o we_o be_v only_o spiritual_o faint_a when_o we_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o lance_n and_o burn_n as_o nigh_o unto_o a_o lethargy_n it_o will_v be_v too_o long_o to_o give_v instance_n of_o these_o sin_n which_o fail_v not_o effectual_o to_o obstruct_v the_o thrive_a of_o spiritual_a affection_n but_o in_o general_a when_o man_n be_v careless_a as_o unto_o that_o continual_a watch_n which_o they_o ought_v to_o keep_v over_o their_o heart_n while_o they_o be_v negligent_a in_o holy_a duty_n either_o as_o unto_o the_o season_n of_o they_o or_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o performance_n when_o they_o be_v stranger_n unto_o holy_a meditation_n and_o self-examination_n while_o they_o inordinate_o pursue_v the_o thing_n of_o the_o world_n or_o be_v so_o tender_a and_o delicate_a as_o that_o they_o will_v not_o undergo_v the_o hardship_n of_o a_o heavenly_a life_n either_o as_o unto_o the_o inward_a or_o outward_a man_n much_o more_o when_o they_o be_v vain_a in_o their_o conversation_n corrupt_v in_o their_o communication_n especial_o if_o under_o the_o predominant_a influence_n of_o any_o particular_a lust_n it_o be_v vain_a to_o think_v of_o thrive_a in_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o yet_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o all_o who_o ordinary_o and_o in_o their_o constant_a course_n be_v thriftless_a herein_o chap._n xvii_o decay_n in_o spiritual_a affection_n with_o the_o cause_n and_o danger_n of_o they_o advice_n unto_o they_o who_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o evil_a of_o spiritual_a decay_n it_o must_v be_v acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v yet_o that_o which_o be_v worse_o than_o what_o we_o have_v yet_o insist_v on_o and_o more_o opposite_a unto_o the_o growth_n of_o affection_n in_o conformity_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a character_n of_o those_o that_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v and_o this_o be_v their_o spiritual_a decay_n manifest_v itself_o in_o sensible_a and_o visible_a effect_n some_o there_o be_v yea_o many_o who_o upon_o the_o beginning_n of_o a_o profession_n of_o their_o conversion_n unto_o god_n have_v make_v a_o great_a appearance_n of_o vigorous_a active_a spiritual_a affection_n yea_o it_o be_v so_o with_o most_o it_o may_v be_v all_o who_o be_v real_o so_o convert_v god_n take_v notice_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o youth_n in_o his_o people_n of_o the_o love_n of_o their_o espousal_n in_o some_o this_o vigiour_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n be_v from_o the_o real_a power_n of_o grace_n exert_v its_o efficacy_n on_o their_o heart_n and_o in_o their_o mind_n in_o other_o it_o be_v from_o other_o cause_n as_o for_o instance_n relief_n from_o conviction_n by_o spiritual_a illumination_n will_v produce_v this_o effect_n and_o this_o fall_v out_o unto_o their_o advantage_n of_o such_o person_n that_o general_o a_o change_n be_v wrought_v in_o their_o young_a day_n for_o than_o their_o affection_n in_o their_o natural_a power_n be_v active_a and_o bear_v great_a sway_n in_o the_o whole_a soul_n wherefore_o the_o change_n that_o be_v make_v be_v most_o eminent_a in_o they_o be_v it_o what_o it_o will_n but_o as_o man_n increase_v in_o age_n and_o thereon_o grow_v up_o in_o carnal_a wisdom_n
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
you_o have_v only_o a_o temporary_a work_n which_o excite_v your_o affection_n for_o a_o season_n which_o now_o it_o be_v wear_v off_o leave_v no_o sweet_a remembrance_n of_o itself_o upon_o your_o mind_n have_v your_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v sincere_a in_o what_o you_o do_v it_o be_v impossible_a but_o that_o the_o remembrance_n of_o their_o act_n in_o some_o especial_a instance_n shall_v be_v sweet_a and_o refresh_n unto_o you_o or_o else_o 2_o you_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n and_o there_o be_v no_o way_n leave_v to_o give_v a_o sense_n or_o impression_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n upon_o your_o mind_n you_o have_v true_o nothing_o leave_v in_o religion_n but_o the_o fear_n of_o hell_n and_o trouble_v of_o duty_n i_o speak_v not_o to_o such_o at_o present_a as_o unto_o those_o unto_o who_o this_o frame_n be_v a_o burden_n there_o be_v no_o more_o effectual_a mean_n to_o stir_v they_o unto_o endeavour_n for_o deliverance_n than_o a_o continual_a remembrance_n of_o former_a thing_n and_o experience_n they_o have_v have_v of_o holy_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n this_o will_v revive_v quicken_v and_o strengthen_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v and_o beget_v a_o self-abhorrency_a in_o they_o in_o consideration_n of_o that_o woeful_a frame_n and_o temper_n of_o mind_n which_o by_o their_o sin_n and_o negligence_n they_o have_v bring_v themselves_o into_o 2_o consider_v that_o as_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n dreadful_o pronounce_v in_o the_o scripture_n against_o backslide_v and_o backslider_n in_o heart_n as_o it_o be_v with_o you_o yet_o also_o there_o be_v especial_a call_n and_o promise_v give_v and_o propose_v unto_o those_o in_o your_o condition_n and_o know_v assure_o that_o upon_o your_o compliance_n or_o noncompliance_n with_o they_o depend_v your_o everlasting_a blessedness_n or_o woe_n consider_v both_o call_n and_o promise_v in_o that_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n jer._n 3.12_o 13_o 14._o go_v and_o proclaim_v these_o word_n towards_o the_o north_n and_o say_v return_v thou_o backslide_v israel_n say_v the_o lord_n and_o i_o will_v not_o cause_v my_o anger_n to_o fall_v upon_o you_o for_o i_o be_o merciful_a faith_n the_o lord_n and_o i_o will_v not_o keep_v anger_n for_o ever_o only_o acknowledge_v thy_o iniquity_n that_o thou_o have_v transgress_v against_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n and_o have_v scatter_v thy_o way_n to_o the_o stranger_n under_o every_o green_a tree_n and_o you_o have_v not_o obey_v my_o voice_n say_v the_o lord_n turn_v o_o backslide_a child_n say_v the_o lord_n for_o i_o be_o marry_v unto_o you_o and_o i_o will_v take_v you_o one_o of_o a_o city_n and_o two_o of_o a_o family_n and_o i_o will_v bring_v you_o to_o zion_n add_v thereunto_o this_o bless_a promise_n hos._n 14.4_o i_o will_v heal_v their_o backslide_n i_o will_v love_v they_o free_o for_o my_o anger_n be_v turn_v away_o from_o they_o if_o you_o design_v to_o live_v and_o not_o die_v it_o must_v be_v by_o yield_a obedience_n unto_o this_o call_v and_o plead_v this_o promise_n before_o god_n mix_v it_o with_o faith_n your_o return_n must_v be_v by_o the_o word_n isai._n 57.18_o 19_o here_o lie_v your_o great_a encouragement_n and_o direction_n herein_o lie_v your_o only_a relief_n as_o you_o value_v your_o soul_n defer_v not_o the_o duty_n you_o be_v call_v unto_o one_o moment_n you_o know_v not_o how_o soon_o you_o may_v be_v without_o the_o reach_n of_o call_n and_o promise_v and_o he_o that_o can_v hear_v they_o without_o stir_v up_o himself_o in_o sincerity_n to_o comply_v with_o they_o have_v make_v already_o a_o great_a progress_n towards_o that_o length_n 3_o as_o unto_o those_o who_o on_o these_o and_o the_o like_a consideration_n do_v not_o only_o desire_v but_o will_v endeavour_v also_o to_o retrieve_v themselves_o from_o this_o condition_n i_o shall_v give_v no_o advice_n at_o present_a but_o this_o be_v in_o good_a earnest_n as_o the_o prophet_n speak_v in_o another_o case_n if_o you_o will_v return_v return_v and_o come_v make_v through_o work_n of_o it_o you_o must_v do_v so_o at_o one_o time_n or_o another_o or_o you_o will_v perish_v why_o not_o now_o why_o be_v not_o this_o the_o best_a season_n who_o know_v but_o it_o may_v be_v the_o only_a time_n you_o will_v have_v for_o it_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o multiply_v all_o sort_n of_o argument_n unto_o this_o purpose_n trifle_a endeavour_n occasional_a resolution_n and_o attempt_n like_o the_o early_a cloud_n and_o morning_n dew_n shift_v with_o warning_n and_o conviction_n by_o renew_a duty_n until_o their_o impression_n be_v wear_v out_o will_v ruin_v your_o soul_n unless_o there_o be_v universal_a diligence_n and_o permanency_n in_o your_o endeavour_n you_o be_v undo_v then_o shall_v you_o know_v the_o lord_n if_o you_o follow_v on_o to_o know_v he_o but_o now_o to_o return_v these_o thing_n i_o say_v through_o our_o sloth_n negligence_n and_o sin_n may_v befall_v we_o as_o unto_o our_o spiritual_o renew_a affection_n their_o progress_n in_o conformity_n unto_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n may_v be_v slow_a imperceptible_a yea_o total_o obstruct_v for_o a_o season_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o they_o may_v fall_v under_o decay_n and_o the_o soul_n therein_o be_v guilty_a of_o backslide_v from_o god_n but_o this_o be_v that_o which_o they_o be_v capacitate_v for_o by_o their_o renovation_n this_o be_v that_o whereby_o the_o grace_n wherewith_o they_o be_v renew_v do_v lead_v unto_o this_o be_v that_o which_o in_o the_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n they_o will_v grow_v up_o unto_o whereon_o our_o comfort_n and_o peace_n do_v depend_v namely_o a_o holy_a assimulation_n unto_o those_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n which_o they_o be_v set_v and_o fix_v on_o wherein_o they_o be_v renew_v and_o make_v more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a every_o day_n chap._n xviii_o it_o remain_v only_o as_o unto_o this_o head_n now_o speak_v unto_o that_o we_o brief_o consider_v what_o be_v the_o state_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n thus_o daily_o exercise_v and_o improve_v and_o this_o we_o shall_v do_v by_o show_v 1_o what_o be_v their_o pattern_n 2_o what_o be_v their_o rule_n 3_o what_o be_v their_o measure_n or_o whereunto_o they_o may_v attain_v first_o the_o pattern_n which_o we_o ought_v continual_o to_o bear_v in_o our_o eye_n whereunto_o our_o affection_n ought_v to_o be_v conform_v be_v jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o affection_n of_o his_o holy_a soul_n the_o mind_n be_v the_o seat_n of_o all_o our_o affection_n and_o this_o be_v that_o we_o ought_v continual_o to_o design_n and_o endeavour_v namely_o that_o the_o same_o mind_n be_v in_o we_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n phil._n 2.5_o to_o have_v our_o mind_n so_o affect_v with_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o grace_n nor_o do_v i_o think_v that_o any_o man_n can_v attain_v any_o considerable_a degree_n in_o spiritual_a mindedness_n who_o be_v not_o much_o in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o same_o mind_n in_o christ_n 2_o cor._n 3.18_o to_o this_o purpose_n ought_v we_o to_o furnish_v our_o mind_n with_o instance_n of_o the_o holy_a affection_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o their_o bless_a exercise_n on_o all_o occasion_n the_o scripture_n make_v a_o full_a representation_n of_o they_o unto_o we_o and_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v conversant_a in_o our_o meditation_n on_o they_o what_o glorious_a thing_n be_v speak_v of_o his_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o delight_n in_o he_o whence_o also_o he_o delight_v to_o do_v his_o will_n and_o his_o law_n be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o bowel_n psal._n 40.8_o seat_v in_o the_o throne_n of_o his_o affection_n what_o pity_n and_o compassion_n have_v he_o for_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n yea_o for_o whole_a humane_a kind_a in_o all_o their_o suffering_n pain_n and_o distress_n how_o be_v all_o his_o affection_n always_o in_o perfection_n of_o order_n under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mind_n thence_o be_v his_o self-denial_n his_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n his_o readiness_n for_o the_o cross_n to_o do_v or_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n if_o this_o pattern_n be_v continual_o before_o we_o it_o will_v put_v forth_o a_o transform_a efficacy_n to_o change_v we_o into_o the_o same_o image_n when_o we_o find_v our_o mind_n liable_a unto_o any_o disorder_n cleave_v inordinate_o unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n move_v with_o intemperate_a passion_n vain_a and_o frothy_a in_o conversation_n darken_v or_o disturb_v by_o the_o fume_n of_o distemper_a lust_n let_v we_o call_v thing_n to_o a_o account_n and_o ask_v of_o ourselves_o whether_o this_o be_v the_o frame_n of_o mind_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n this_o therefore_o be_v a_o evidence_n
the_o affection_n it_o be_v easy_a to_o manifest_v that_o from_o these_o three_o corrupt_a spring_n arise_v that_o flood_n of_o idolatry_n and_o false-worship_n which_o spread_v itself_o over_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o with_o who_o machination_n the_o mind_n of_o man_n be_v yet_o too_o much_o replenish_v four_o where_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o yet_o carnal_a affection_n do_v various_o debase_v spiritual_a thing_n to_o bring_v they_o into_o a_o conformity_n with_o themselves_o and_o this_o may_v proceed_v so_o far_o until_o man_n think_v wicked_o that_o god_n be_v altogether_o like_a unto_o they_o but_o i_o shall_v not_o insist_v on_o these_o thing_n any_o far_o last_o where_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v the_o person_n oâ—_n christ_n be_v the_o centre_n of_o they_o but_o where_o they_o be_v change_v only_o they_o tend_v unto_o a_o end_n in_o self_n where_o the_o new_a man_n as_o â—ut_v on_o christ_n be_v all_o in_o all_o col._n 3.10_o 11._o he_o be_v the_o spring_n by_o his_o spirit_n that_o give_v they_o life_n light_n and_o be_v and_o he_o be_v the_o ocean_n that_o receive_v all_o their_o sâ—â—egâ—â—â—_n god_n even_o the_o father_n present_v not_o himself_o in_o his_o beauty_n and_o amiableness_n as_o the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n but_o as_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n act_v his_o love_n in_o he_o 1_o joh._n 4.8_o 9_o and_o as_o unto_o all_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n renew_a affection_n cleave_v unto_o they_o according_a as_o they_o derive_v from_o christ_n and_o lead_v unto_o he_o for_o he_o be_v unto_o they_o all_o and_o in_o all_o it_o be_v he_o who_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o saint_n do_v love_n for_o himself_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n and_o all_o other_o thing_n of_o religion_n in_o and_o for_o he_o the_o air_n be_v pleasant_a and_o useful_a that_o without_o which_o we_o can_v live_v or_o breath_n but_o if_o the_o sun_n do_v not_o enlighten_v it_o and_o warm_v it_o with_o its_o beam_n if_o it_o be_v always_o one_o perpetual_a night_n and_o cold_a what_o refreshment_n can_v be_v receive_v by_o it_o christ_n be_v the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n and_o if_o his_o beam_n do_v not_o quicken_v animate_v and_o enlighten_v the_o best_a the_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o religion_n nothing_o desirable_a will_v remain_v in_o they_o this_o be_v the_o most_o certain_a character_n of_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v they_o can_v rest_v in_o nothing_o but_o in_o christ_n they_o fix_v on_o nothing_o but_o what_o be_v amiable_a by_o a_o participation_n of_o his_o beauty_n and_o in_o whatever_o he_o be_v therein_o do_v they_o find_v complacency_n it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o they_o who_o affection_n may_v be_v change_v but_o be_v not_o renew_v that_o truth_n be_v and_o it_o may_v be_v make_v good_a by_o all_o sort_n of_o instance_n that_o christ_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o person_n and_o in_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o mediation_n be_v the_o only_a thing_n that_o they_o dislike_v in_o religion_n false_a representation_n of_o he_o by_o image_n and_o picture_n they_o may_v embrace_v and_o delight_n in_o false_a notion_n of_o his_o present_a glory_n greatness_n and_o power_n may_v affect_v they_o a_o worship_n of_o their_o own_o devise_v they_o may_v give_v unto_o he_o and_o please_v themselves_o in_o it_o corrupt_a opinion_n concern_v his_o office_n and_o grace_n may_v possess_v their_o mind_n and_o they_o may_v contend_v for_o they_o but_o those_o who_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v can_v love_v the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n in_o sincerity_n yea_o they_o have_v a_o inward_a secret_a aversation_n from_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o person_n and_o his_o grace_n it_o be_v self_n which_o all_o their_o affection_n centre_n in_o the_o way_n whereof_o be_v too_o long_o here_o to_o be_v declare_v this_o be_v the_o first_o thing_n that_o be_v require_v to_o render_v our_o affection_n in_o such_o a_o state_n and_o condition_n as_o that_o from_o and_o by_o they_o we_o may_v be_v spiritually-minded_n namely_o that_o they_o themselves_o be_v spiritual_o and_o save_o renew_v the_o thing_n that_o remain_v will_v admit_v of_o a_o speedy_a dispatch_n as_o i_o suppose_v chap._n xix_o the_o second_o thing_n require_v that_o we_o may_v be_v spiritual_o mind_a as_o unto_o the_o interest_n of_o our_o affection_n therein_o be_v the_o object_n of_o they_o about_o which_o they_o be_v conversant_a and_o whereunto_o they_o do_v adhere_v what_o this_o be_v material_o or_o what_o be_v the_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o our_o affection_n be_v to_o be_v set_v upon_o have_v be_v declare_v already_o under_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o object_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n for_o they_o be_v the_o same_o yea_o as_o have_v be_v intimate_v the_o fix_v of_o our_o affection_n upon_o they_o be_v the_o spring_n and_o cause_n of_o our_o thought_n about_o they_o but_o that_o which_o we_o shall_v now_o inquire_v into_o be_v the_o true_a notion_n and_o consideration_n of_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n which_o render_v they_o the_o formal_a proper_a object_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o their_o adherance_n unto_o they_o for_o as_o be_v intimate_v before_o man_n may_v have_v false_a notion_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n under_o which_o they_o may_v like_v they_o and_o embrace_v they_o with_o unrenewed_a affection_n wherefore_o we_o shall_v inquire_v into_o some_o of_o those_o consideration_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n under_o which_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v do_v satisfactory_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n and_o complacency_n 1._o and_o the_o first_o be_v that_o as_o they_o comprehend_v god_n in_o christ_n and_o all_o other_o thing_n as_o derive_v from_o he_o and_o tend_v unto_o he_o they_o have_v a_o infinite_a beauty_n goodness_n and_o amiableness_n in_o they_o which_o be_v powerful_o attractive_a of_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o which_o alone_o be_v able_a to_o fill_v to_o they_o to_o satisfy_v they_o to_o give_v they_o rest_n and_o acquiescency_n love_n be_v the_o most_o roll_a and_o prevalent_a affection_n in_o the_o whole_a soul_n but_o it_o can_v be_v fix_v on_o any_o object_n without_o a_o apprehension_n true_a or_o false_a of_o a_o amiableness_n and_o desirableness_n in_o it_o from_o a_o suitable_a goodness_n unto_o all_o its_o desire_n and_o our_o fear_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v spiritual_a have_v divine_a goodness_n for_o its_o object_n hos._n 3.5_o unless_o this_o be_v that_o which_o draw_v our_o heart_n unto_o god_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n in_o all_o pretence_n of_o love_n unto_o he_o man_n do_v but_o frame_v idol_n to_o themselves_o according_a to_o their_o own_o understanding_n as_o the_o prophet_n speak_v hos._n 13.2_o wherefore_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v cleave_v unto_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n three_o thing_n be_v require_v 1_o that_o we_o apprehend_v and_o do_v find_v a_o goodness_n a_o beauty_n and_o thence_o a_o amiableness_n and_o desirableness_n in_o they_o â—â—ech_n â—_o 17_o many_o pretend_v to_o love_n god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o they_o know_v not_o why_o why_o they_o love_v other_o thing_n they_o know_v well_o enough_o but_o why_o they_o love_v god_n they_o can_v tell_v many_o be_v afraid_a of_o he_o &_o suppose_v they_o ought_v to_o love_v he_o and_o therefore_o pretend_v so_o to_o do_v though_o indeed_o they_o know_v they_o do_v not_o they_o do_v but_o flatter_v he_o with_o their_o lip_n when_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o some_o be_v much_o affect_v with_o the_o benefit_n and_o mercy_n they_o receive_v from_o he_o and_o suppose_v that_o they_o love_v he_o on_o that_o account_n but_o this_o love_n be_v no_o other_o but_o what_o the_o devil_n false_o charge_v job_n withal_o chap._n 1.8_o 9_o 10_o 11._o some_o have_v delight_n in_o the_o outward_a mode_n and_o rite_n of_o divine_a worship_n wherewith_o they_o satisfy_v themselves_o that_o they_o love_v god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n when_o they_o only_o please_v their_o own_o imagination_n and_o carnal_a mind_n many_o have_v a_o traditional_a apprehension_n that_o they_o ought_v to_o love_n god_n they_o know_v no_o reason_n why_o they_o shall_v not_o they_o know_v it_o will_v be_v ill_a for_o they_o if_o they_o do_v not_o and_o these_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o they_o do_v how_o few_o be_v there_o who_o have_v that_o spiritual_a discern_a and_o apprehension_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n that_o view_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o goodness_n and_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n as_o thereby_o alone_o to_o be_v draw_v after_o he_o and_o to_o delight_v in_o he_o yet_o be_v this_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o sincere_a real_a love_n unto_o god_n two_o thing_n be_v require_v that_o we_o may_v apprehend_v a_o amiable_a goodness_n in_o any_o thing_n and_o cleave_v unto_o it_o with_o sincere_a affection_n first_o a_o real_a worth_n or_o
the_o text_n from_o whence_o the_o whole_a be_v educe_v be_v to_o manifest_v how_o it_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n which_o be_v affirm_v by_o the_o apostle_n this_o shall_v be_v do_v with_o all_o brevity_n as_o have_v pass_v through_o that_o which_o be_v principal_o design_v and_o two_o thing_n be_v we_o to_o inquire_v into_o 1_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o life_n and_o peace_n 2_o in_o what_o sense_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a be_v both_o of_o they_o 1_o that_o spiritual_a life_n whereof_o we_o be_v make_v partaker_n in_o this_o world_n be_v threefold_a or_o there_o be_v three_o gospel_n privilege_n or_o grace_n so_o express_v 1_o there_o be_v the_o life_n of_o justification_n therein_o the_o just_a by_o faith_n do_v live_v as_o free_v from_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n of_o the_o law_n so_o the_o righteousness_n of_o one_o come_v on_o all_o that_o believe_v unto_o the_o justification_n of_o life_n rom._n 5.18_o it_o give_v unto_o believer_n a_o right_a and_o title_n to_o life_n for_o they_o that_o receive_v the_o abundance_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o righteousness_n shall_v reign_v in_o life_n by_o one_o christ_n jesus_n vers_fw-la 17._o this_o be_v not_o the_o life_n here_o intend_v for_o this_o life_n depend_v sole_o on_o the_o sovereign_a grace_n of_o god_n by_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o imputation_n of_o his_o righteousness_n unto_o we_o unto_o pardon_n right_o to_o life_n and_o salvation_n 2_o there_o be_v a_o life_n of_o sanctification_n as_o life_n in_o the_o forego_n sense_n in_o oppose_a unto_o death_n spiritual_a as_o unto_o the_o the_o gild_n of_o it_o and_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n of_o death_n wherewith_o it_o be_v accompany_v so_o in_o this_o it_o be_v oppose_v unto_o it_o as_o unto_o its_o internal_a power_n on_o and_o efficacy_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o keep_v it_o under_o a_o impotency_n unto_o all_o act_n of_o spiritual_a life_n yea_o a_o enmity_n against_o they_o this_o be_v that_o life_n wherewith_o we_o be_v quicken_v by_o christ_n jesus_n when_o before_o we_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n ephes._n 2.1_o 5._o of_o this_o life_n the_o apostle_n treat_v direct_o in_o this_o place_n for_o have_v in_o the_o first_o four_o verse_n of_o the_o chapter_n declare_v the_o life_n of_o justification_n in_o the_o nature_n and_o cause_n of_o it_o in_o the_o follow_a he_o treat_v of_o death_n spiritual_a in_o sin_n with_o the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n whereby_o we_o be_v free_v from_o it_o and_o to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n be_v this_o life_n in_o a_o double_a sense_n 1_o in_o that_o it_o be_v the_o principal_a effect_n and_o fruit_n of_o that_o life_n the_o life_n itself_o consist_v in_o the_o infusion_n and_o communication_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o life_n that_o be_v of_o faith_n and_o obedience_n unto_o all_o the_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o our_o soul_n enable_v we_o to_o live_v unto_o god_n to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n which_o be_v a_o grace_n whereunto_o many_o duty_n do_v concur_v and_o that_o not_o only_o as_o to_o the_o act_n of_o all_o grace_n in_o they_o but_o as_o unto_o the_o degree_n of_o their_o exercise_n can_v be_v this_o life_n formal_o but_o it_o be_v that_o wherein_o the_o power_n of_o this_o principle_n of_o life_n do_v in_o the_o first_o and_o chief_a place_n put_v forth_o itself_o all_o act_n of_o grace_n all_o duty_n of_o obedience_n internal_a and_o external_a do_v proceed_v from_o this_o spring_n and_o fountain_n nothing_o of_o that_o kind_n be_v acceptable_a unto_o god_n but_o what_o be_v influence_v by_o it_o and_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o it_o but_o it_o principal_o put_v forth_o its_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n in_o render_v our_o mind_n spiritual_a which_o if_o it_o effect_v not_o it_o work_v not_o at_o all_o that_o be_v we_o be_v utter_o destitute_a of_o it_o the_o next_o and_o immediate_a work_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o life_n in_o our_o sanctification_n be_v to_o renew_v the_o mind_n to_o make_v it_o spiritual_a and_o thereon_o gradual_o to_o carry_v it_o on_o unto_o that_o degree_n which_o be_v here_o call_v be_v spiritually-minded_n 2_o it_o be_v the_o proper_a adjunct_n and_o evidence_n of_o it_o will_v any_o one_o know_v whether_o he_o be_v spiritual_o alive_a unto_o god_n with_o the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n and_o holiness_n the_o communication_n of_o it_o unto_o he_o be_v by_o a_o almighty_a act_n of_o create_a power_n ephes_n 2.10_o it_o be_v not_o easy_o discernible_a so_o as_o to_o help_v we_o to_o make_v a_o right_a judgement_n of_o it_o from_o its_o essence_n or_o form_n but_o where_o thing_n be_v in_o themselves_o indiscernible_a we_o may_v know_v they_o from_o their_o proper_a and_o inseparable_a adjunct_n which_o be_v therefore_o call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o the_o essence_n or_o the_o form_n itself_o such_o be_v this_o be_v spiritually-minded_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n it_o be_v a_o inseparable_a property_n and_o adjunct_n of_o it_o whereby_o it_o infallible_o evidence_v if_o self_n unto_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v in_o these_o two_o respect_n it_o be_v the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n 3_o life_n be_v take_v for_o the_o comfort_n and_o refreshment_n of_o life_n so_o speak_v the_o apostle_n 1_o thes._n 3.8_o now_o we_o live_v if_o you_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o lord_n now_o our_o life_n will_v do_v we_o good_a we_o have_v the_o comfort_n the_o refreshment_n and_o the_o joy_n of_o it_o non_fw-fr est_fw-fr vivere_fw-la sed_fw-la valere_fw-la vita_fw-la the_o comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o life_n be_v more_o life_n than_o life_n itself_o it_o be_v life_n that_o be_v that_o which_o make_v life_n to_o be_v so_o bring_v in_o that_o satisfaction_n those_o refreshment_n unto_o it_o which_o make_v it_o pleasant_a and_o desirable_a and_o i_o do_v suppose_v this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v principal_o intend_v in_o the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n it_o be_v life_n a_o cheerful_a joyous_a life_n a_o life_n worth_a the_o live_n in_o explication_n and_o confirmation_n whereof_o it_o be_v add_v that_o it_o be_v peace_n also_o peace_n be_v twofold_a 1_o general_n and_o absolute_a that_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v celebrate_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o which_o be_v the_o only_a original_a spring_n and_o fountain_n of_o all_o consolation_n unto_o believer_n that_o which_o virtual_o contain_v in_o it_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a useful_a or_o desirable_a unto_o they_o but_o it_o be_v not_o here_o precise_o intend_v it_o be_v not_o so_o 1_o as_o to_o the_o immediate_a ground_n and_o cause_n of_o it_o which_o be_v our_o justification_n not_o our_o sanctification_n rom._n 5.1_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n so_o christ_n alone_o be_v our_o peace_n as_o he_o who_o have_v make_v peace_n for_o we_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o cross_n ephes._n 2.14_o 15._o hereof_o our_o be_v spiritually-minded_n be_v no_o way_n the_o cause_n or_o reason_n only_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n and_o pledge_n of_o it_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v 2_o not_o as_o unto_o the_o formal_a nature_n of_o it_o peace_n with_o god_n through_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v one_o thing_n and_o peace_n in_o our_o mind_n through_o a_o holy_a frame_n in_o they_o be_v another_o the_o former_a be_v communicate_v unto_o we_o by_o a_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n dwell_v in_o we_o rom._n 5.5_o the_o latter_a be_v a_o effect_n on_o our_o mind_n begin_v and_o gradual_o carry_v on_o by_o the_o duty_n we_o have_v before_o at_o large_a declare_v the_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o seal_v we_o witness_v unto_o our_o adoption_n and_o be_v a_o earnest_a of_o glory_n be_v require_v unto_o the_o former_a our_o own_o sedulity_n and_o diligence_n in_o duty_n and_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o grace_n be_v require_v unto_o the_o latter_a 2_o peace_n be_v take_v for_o a_o peculiar_a fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n consist_v in_o a_o gracious_a quietness_n and_o composure_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o difficulty_n temptation_n trouble_n and_o such_o other_o thing_n as_o be_v apt_a to_o fill_v we_o with_o fear_n despondency_n and_o disquietment_n this_o be_v that_o which_o keep_v the_o soul_n in_o its_o own_o power_n free_a from_o transport_v by_o fear_n or_o passion_n on_o all_o the_o abide_a ground_n of_o gospel_n consolation_n for_o although_o this_o be_v a_o peculiar_a especial_a grace_n yet_o it_o it_o that_o which_o be_v influence_v and_o keep_v alive_a by_o the_o consideration_n of_o all_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o it_o and_o whereas_o peace_n include_v in_o the_o first_o notion_n of_o it_o a_o inward_a freedom_n from_o opposition_n and_o trouble_n which_o those_o in_o who_o it_o be_v be_v outward_o expose_v
unto_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n from_o which_o we_o be_v secure_v by_o this_o peace_n which_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a the_o first_o be_v offence_n there_o be_v nothing_o of_o who_o danger_n we_o be_v more_o warn_v in_o the_o gospel_n than_o of_o offence_n wo_n to_o the_o world_n say_v our_o saviour_n because_o of_o offence_n all_o age_n all_o time_n and_o season_n be_v fill_v with_o they_o and_o they_o prove_v pernicious_a and_o destructive_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o many_o such_o be_v the_o scandalous_a division_n that_o be_v among_o christian_n the_o endless_a difference_n of_o opinion_n and_o diversity_n of_o practice_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n the_o fall_v and_o sin_n of_o professor_n the_o fearful_a end_n of_o some_o of_o they_o the_o reproach_n that_o be_v cast_v on_o all_o that_o engage_v into_o any_o peculiar_a way_n of_o holiness_n and_o strictness_n of_o life_n with_o other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n whereby_o the_o soul_n of_o innumerable_a person_n be_v disquiet_v subvert_v or_o infect_v be_v to_o be_v reckon_v unto_o this_o head_n against_o any_o hurtful_a or_o noxious_a influence_n on_o our_o mind_n from_o these_o thing_n against_o disquietment_n dejection_n of_o spirit_n and_o disconsolation_n be_v we_o secure_v by_o this_o peace_n so_o the_o psalmist_n assure_v we_o psal._n 119.165_o great_a peace_n have_v they_o that_o love_v thy_o law_n and_o nothing_o shall_v offend_v they_o the_o law_n or_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a way_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o will_n unto_o we_o and_o the_o only_a outward_a way_n and_o rule_n of_o our_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o wherefore_o to_o love_v the_o law_n be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o our_o be_v heavenly_a mind_a yea_o virtual_o that_o which_o comprehend_v the_o whole_a for_o such_o as_o do_v so_o nothing_o none_o of_o the_o thing_n before_o mention_v nor_o any_o other_o of_o the_o like_a nature_n shall_v be_v a_o offence_n a_o stumble_a block_n or_o cause_n of_o fall_v into_o sin_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o they_o have_v such_o a_o experience_n in_o themselves_o of_o the_o truth_n power_n efficacy_n and_o holiness_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o that_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o man_n under_o a_o profession_n of_o it_o shall_v never_o be_v unto_o they_o a_o occasion_n of_o fall_v or_o be_v offend_v at_o christ._n and_o i_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o very_a evil_a frame_n of_o heart_n when_o man_n be_v concern_v in_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o some_o that_o have_v make_v profession_n whereby_o they_o be_v it_o may_v be_v damage_v in_o their_o outward_a concern_v so_o as_o that_o they_o be_v surprise_v into_o reflection_n on_o that_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v profess_v the_o same_o themselves_o 2_o the_o second_o be_v affliction_n persecution_n and_o suffering_n of_o all_o sort_n it_o be_v know_v by_o all_o it_o be_v well_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o well_o know_v what_o disquietment_n dejection_n and_o disconsolation_n these_o thing_n be_v apt_a to_o fill_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n withal_o what_o fear_n trouble_n sorrow_n they_o reflect_v upon_o they_o against_o all_o these_o effect_n of_o they_o this_o peace_n intend_v give_v we_o security_n it_o make_v we_o to_o preserve_v a_o peaceable_a yea_o a_o joyous_a life_n in_o our_o conflict_n with_o they_o see_v joh._n 16.33_o both_o these_o as_o here_o join_v together_o life_n and_o peace_n do_v comprise_v a_o holy_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n wherein_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n do_v find_v rest_n quietness_n refreshment_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o god_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o temptation_n affliction_n offence_n and_o suffering_n it_o be_v the_o soul_n composure_n of_o itself_o in_o god_n in_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n jesus_n so_o as_o not_o great_o to_o be_v put_v out_o of_o order_n to_o be_v cast_v down_o with_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v befall_v it_o but_o afford_v man_n cheerfulness_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o themselves_o though_o they_o walk_v sometime_o in_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n such_o person_n have_v that_o in_o they_o abide_v with_o they_o as_o will_v give_v they_o life_n and_o peace_n under_o all_o occurrence_n 2_o our_o next_o enquiry_n be_v how_o this_o spiritual_a mindedness_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n or_o what_o it_o contribute_v unto_o they_o how_o it_o produce_v the_o frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n so_o express_v and_o this_o it_o do_v several_a way_n 1_o it_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n on_o our_o part_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o it_o as_o shed_v abroad_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v the_o first_o and_o only_a foundation_n of_o all_o durable_a comfort_n such_o as_o will_v support_v and_o refresh_v we_o under_o all_o opposition_n and_o distress_n that_o be_v of_o life_n and_o peace_n in_o our_o soul_n in_o any_o condition_n this_o god_n communicate_v by_o a_o act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n for_o the_o most_o part_n without_o any_o preparation_n for_o it_o in_o ourselves_o he_o create_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o lip_n peace_n peace_n but_o although_o divine_a love_n be_v in_o itself_o unchangeable_a and_o always_o the_o same_o yet_o this_o sense_n of_o it_o may_v be_v lose_v as_o it_o be_v in_o david_n when_o he_o pray_v that_o god_n will_v restore_v unto_o he_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n psal._n 51.12_o and_o so_o many_o other_o have_v find_v it_o by_o woeful_a experience_n to_o insist_v upon_o all_o that_o be_v require_v on_o our_o part_n that_o we_o may_v retain_v a_o gracious_a refresh_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n after_o it_o be_v once_o grant_v unto_o we_o belong_v not_o unto_o my_o present_a purpose_n but_o this_o i_o say_v there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n wherein_o we_o be_v more_o concern_v for_o to_o be_v careful_a and_o diligent_a in_o than_o as_o unto_o what_o belong_v to_o that_o end_n for_o man_n who_o by_o a_o mere_a act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n have_v taste_v herein_o of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o have_v have_v the_o consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o it_o to_o be_v negligent_a in_o the_o keep_n and_o preserve_v it_o in_o their_o soul_n be_v a_o provocation_n that_o they_o will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o be_v sensible_a of_o there_o be_v nothing_o do_v more_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n than_o to_o have_v his_o especial_a work_n whereby_o he_o seal_v we_o unto_o the_o day_n of_o redemption_n neglect_v or_o despise_v and_o it_o argue_v a_o mighty_a prevalency_n of_o some_o corruption_n or_o temptation_n that_o shall_v cause_v man_n willing_o and_o by_o their_o own_o sloth_n to_o forfeit_v so_o inestimable_a a_o grace_n mercy_n and_o privilege_n and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o there_o be_v but_o few_o of_o we_o who_o have_v not_o reason_n to_o bewail_v our_o folly_n in_o every_o intimation_n of_o divine_a love_n be_v a_o inestimable_a jewel_n which_o if_o safe_o treasure_v up_o in_o our_o heart_n add_v unto_o our_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o be_v lose_v will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o another_o affect_v we_o with_o sorrow_n and_o i_o be_o afraid_a that_o many_o of_o we_o be_v very_o negligent_a herein_o unto_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o spiritual_n state_n many_o such_o intimation_n be_v give_v we_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n through_o the_o word_n which_o we_o take_v little_a notice_n of_o either_o we_o know_v not_o the_o voice_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o or_o do_v not_o hearken_v unto_o he_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n or_o refuse_v a_o compliance_n with_o he_o when_o we_o can_v but_o know_v that_o he_o speak_v unto_o we_o see_v cant._n 5.2_o 3._o or_o if_o we_o receive_v any_o impression_n of_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o they_o we_o quick_o lose_v they_o not_o know_v how_o much_o the_o life_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v concern_v therein_o and_o what_o use_n of_o they_o we_o may_v have_v in_o our_o follow_a temptation_n trial_n and_o duty_n now_o the_o great_a mean_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o only_a spring_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n unto_o our_o soul_n be_v this_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n this_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o the_o duty_n for_o 1_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n preserve_v of_o itself_o in_o a_o frame_n meet_v to_o receive_v and_o retain_v this_o sense_n of_o god_n love_n what_o other_o way_n can_v there_o be_v on_o our_o part_n but_o that_o our_o mind_n which_o be_v so_o to_o receive_v it_o and_o retain_v it_o be_v spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a always_o prepare_v for_o that_o holy_a converse_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o which_o he_o
excess_n in_o it_o both_o weaken_v spiritual_a life_n and_o disturb_v yea_o destroy_v all_o solid_a spiritual_a peace_n i_o have_v occasional_o speak_v unto_o it_o before_o as_o also_o the_o way_n whereby_o our_o mind_v of_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n do_v deliver_v and_o preserve_v our_o soul_n from_o the_o snare_n of_o it_o and_o if_o we_o diligent_o examine_v ourselves_o we_o shall_v find_v that_o in_o our_o inordinate_a affection_n and_o cleave_v unto_o these_o thing_n the_o principal_a cause_n why_o we_o thrive_v no_o more_o in_o the_o power_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o whence_o we_o meet_v with_o so_o many_o disquietment_n and_o dejection_n of_o spirit_n unto_o the_o disturbance_n of_o our_o prace_n and_o rest_v in_o god_n be_v from_o hence_o for_o there_o be_v no_o grace_n which_o be_v not_o impair_v by_o it_o in_o its_o nature_n or_o not_o obstruct_v by_o it_o in_o its_o exercise_n wherefore_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a be_v life_n and_o peace_n because_o it_o subdue_v and_o expel_v that_o inordinate_a love_n unto_o present_a thing_n which_o be_v destructive_a of_o they_o both_o and_o inconsistent_a with_o they_o 4_o it_o preserve_v the_o mind_n in_o a_o due_a and_o holy_a frame_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o all_o other_o duty_n this_o also_o be_v indispensible_o require_v unto_o the_o preservation_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n especial_o unto_o the_o improvement_n of_o they_o they_o will_v not_o abide_v much_o less_o thrive_v and_o flourish_v in_o any_o person_n who_o be_v negligent_a in_o holy_a duty_n or_o do_v not_o perform_v they_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n and_o there_o be_v four_o thing_n which_o impede_fw-la or_o hinder_v we_o from_o such_o a_o attendance_n unto_o holy_a duty_n as_o may_v be_v advantageous_a unto_o our_o soul_n against_o all_o which_o we_o have_v relief_n by_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a 1_o distraction_n 2_o despondency_n 3_o weariness_n 4_o unreadiness_n of_o grace_n for_o exercise_n 1_o distraction_n of_o mind_n and_o thought_n have_v this_o evil_a effect_n which_o many_o complain_v of_o few_o take_v the_o right_a way_n of_o deliverance_n from_o for_o this_o evil_n will_v not_o be_v cure_v by_o attendance_n unto_o any_o particular_a direction_n without_o a_o change_n of_o the_o whole_a frame_n of_o our_o mind_n nothing_o can_v give_v we_o relief_n herein_o but_o a_o prevalent_a delight_n in_o be_v exercise_v about_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a for_o hence_o arise_v all_o our_o distraction_n the_o want_n of_o fix_v our_o mind_n on_o spiritual_a thing_n with_o delight_n make_v they_o obnoxious_a to_o be_v divert_v from_o they_o on_o all_o occasion_n yea_o to_o seek_v occasion_n for_o such_o diversion_n it_o be_v this_o frame_n alone_o namely_o of_o spiritual_a mindedness_n that_o will_v give_v we_o this_o delight_n for_o thereby_o the_o soul_n be_v transform_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n so_o as_o that_o they_o be_v suit_v unto_o it_o and_o pleasant_a unto_o our_o affection_n the_o mind_n and_o the_o thing_n themselves_o be_v thereby_o so_o fit_v unto_o each_o other_o that_o on_o every_o occasion_n they_o be_v ready_a for_o mutual_a embrace_n and_o not_o easy_o draw_v off_o by_o any_o cause_n or_o mean_n of_o the_o distraction_n so_o complain_v of_o yea_o they_o will_v all_o be_v prevent_v hereby_o 2_o despondencys_n in_o duty_n arise_v from_o the_o frequent_a incursion_n of_o the_o gild_n of_o sin_n the_o remembrance_n hereof_o frequent_o solicit_v the_o mind_n of_o person_n in_o their_o first_o entrance_n into_o duty_n unless_o they_o be_v under_o especial_a act_n of_o grace_n stir_v they_o up_o unto_o earnestness_n and_o fervency_n in_o what_o they_o undertake_v at_o other_o season_v it_o render_v man_n lifeless_a and_o heartless_a so_o as_o that_o they_o know_v not_o whether_o they_o have_v best_o pray_v or_o no_o when_o duty_n and_o opportunity_n call_v they_o thereunto_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a we_o have_v manifest_v in_o many_o instance_n be_v the_o great_a preservative_n against_o these_o dishearten_v incursion_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v the_o soul_n watch_v and_o guard_n against_o they_o whence_o ever_o they_o arise_v or_o proceed_v no_o lust_n or_o corruption_n can_v be_v prevalent_a in_o a_o spiritual_a mind_n and_o this_o be_v the_o principal_a cause_n of_o such_o incursion_n of_o sin_n as_o affect_v the_o soul_n with_o a_o dishearten_v sense_n of_o gild_n no_o affection_n can_v abide_v in_o any_o sinful_a disorder_n where_o the_o mind_n be_v so_o affect_v this_o also_o give_v sin_n a_o entrance_n unto_o a_o distract_n sense_n of_o gild_n but_o the_o foal_n cure_v hereof_o lie_v in_o this_o grace_n and_o duty_n the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o other_o way_n mean_n and_o occasion_n of_o such_o incursion_n of_o sin_n 3_o weariness_n in_o and_o of_o spiritual_a duty_n abate_v their_o tendency_n unto_o the_o improvement_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n in_o we_o this_o evil_n arise_v from_o the_o same_o cause_n with_o that_o or_o distraction_n before_o mention_v and_o it_o be_v ofttimes_o increase_v by_o the_o weakness_n and_o indisposition_n of_o the_o flesh_n or_o of_o the_o outward_a man_n sometime_o the_o spirit_n be_v willing_a but_o through_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o flesh_n it_o be_v disappoint_v the_o principal_a cure_n hereof_o lie_v in_o that_o delight_n which_o spiritual_a mindedness_n give_v unto_o the_o soul_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n for_o where_o there_o be_v constant_a delight_n in_o any_o thing_n there_o will_v be_v no_o weariness_n at_o least_o not_o such_o as_o shall_v hinder_v any_o from_o cleave_v firm_o unto_o the_o thing_n wherein_o he_o do_v delight_n while_o therefore_o we_o be_v exercise_v in_o a_o delight_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n weariness_n can_v prevalent_o assault_v the_o mind_n and_o it_o be_v the_o only_a relief_n against_o that_o weariness_n which_o proceed_v from_o the_o indisposition_n of_o the_o outward_a man_n for_o as_o it_o will_v preserve_v the_o mind_n from_o attend_v too_o much_o unto_o their_o solicitation_n cry_v spare_a thyself_o by_o fill_v and_o possess_v the_o thought_n with_o other_o thing_n so_o it_o will_v offer_v a_o holy_a violence_n unto_o the_o complaint_n of_o the_o flesh_n silence_v they_o with_o a_o sense_n of_o and_o delight_n in_o holy_a duty_n 4_o the_o unreadiness_n of_o grace_n for_o its_o due_a and_o proper_a excercise_n be_v another_o thing_n which_o defeat_v we_o of_o the_o benefit_n of_o holy_a duty_n the_o season_n of_o they_o be_v come_v sense_n of_o duty_n carry_v man_n unto_o a_o attendance_n unto_o they_o and_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o but_o when_o they_o shall_v enter_v upon_o they_o those_o grace_n of_o faith_n love_n fear_v and_o delight_n wherein_o the_o soul_n and_o be_v of_o they_o do_v consist_v be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n unready_z for_o a_o due_a exercise_n so_o as_o that_o man_n take_v up_o and_o satisfy_v themselves_o with_o the_o mere_a outward_a performance_n of_o they_o the_o heart_n and_o mind_n have_v be_v take_v up_o with_o other_o thing_n due_a preparation_n have_v be_v want_v man_n come_v unto_o they_o with_o reak_a thought_n of_o earthly_a occasion_n and_o it_o be_v no_o easy_a matter_n in_o or_o immediate_o out_o of_o such_o a_o frame_n to_o stir_v up_o grace_n unto_o a_o due_a exercise_n but_o herein_o lie_v the_o very_a life_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a the_o nature_n of_o it_o consist_v in_o the_o keep_n and_o preserve_v all_o grace_n in_o a_o readiness_n for_o its_o exercise_n as_o our_o occasion_n require_v and_o this_o be_v a_o effectual_a way_n whereby_o this_o grace_n come_v to_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n for_o they_o can_v be_v attain_v they_o can_v be_v preserve_v without_o such_o a_o constancy_n and_o spirituality_n in_o all_o holy_a duty_n as_o we_o shall_v never_o arrive_v at_o unless_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a last_o this_o frame_n of_o mind_n bring_v the_o soul_n unto_o and_o keep_v it_o at_o its_o near_a approach_n unto_o heaven_n and_o blessedness_n wherein_o lie_v the_o eternal_a spring_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n according_a unto_o the_o degree_n of_o this_o grace_n in_o we_o such_o be_v those_o of_o our_o approach_n unto_o god_n nearness_n unto_o he_o give_v we_o our_o initial_a conformity_n unto_o he_o by_o the_o renovation_n of_o his_o image_n in_o we_o as_o our_o presence_n with_o he_o will_v give_v we_o perfection_n therein_o for_o when_o we_o see_v he_o we_o shall_v be_v like_a unto_o he_o he_o therefore_o alone_o as_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n by_o our_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o he_o and_o by_o our_o likeness_n of_o he_o will_v they_o thrive_v and_o flourish_v in_o our_o soul_n finis_fw-la
nature_n and_o compliant_a with_o its_o inclination_n wherefore_o these_o thought_n give_v the_o best_a measure_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o heart_n i_o mean_v such_o as_o be_v voluntary_a such_o as_o the_o mind_n of_o its_o own_o accord_n be_v apt_a for_o incline_v and_o ordinary_o betake_v itself_o unto_o man_n may_v have_v a_o multitude_n of_o thought_n about_o the_o affair_n of_o their_o calling_n and_o the_o occasion_n of_o life_n which_o yet_o may_v give_v no_o due_a measure_n of_o the_o inward_a frame_n of_o their_o heart_n so_o man_n who_o calling_n and_o work_v it_o be_v to_o study_v the_o scripture_n or_o the_o thing_n reveal_v therein_o and_o to_o preach_v they_o unto_o other_o can_v but_o have_v many_o thought_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v and_o oftentimes_o be_v most_o remote_a from_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v they_o may_v be_v force_v by_o their_o work_n and_o call_v to_o think_v of_o they_o early_o and_o late_o evening_n and_o morning_n and_o yet_o their_o mind_n be_v no_o way_n render_v or_o prove_v spiritual_a thereby_o it_o be_v well_o if_o all_o of_o we_o who_o be_v preacher_n will_v diligent_o examine_v ourselves_o herein_o so_o be_v it_o with_o they_o who_o oblige_v themselves_o to_o read_v the_o scripture_n it_o may_v be_v so_o many_o chapter_n every_o day_n notwithstanding_o the_o diligent_a performance_n of_o their_o task_n they_o may_v be_v most_o remote_a from_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v see_v ezek._n 33.31_o but_o there_o be_v a_o certain_a track_n and_o course_n of_o thought_n that_o man_n ordinary_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o when_o not_o affect_v with_o present_a occasion_n if_o these_o be_v vain_a foolish_a proud_a ambitious_a sensual_a or_o filthy_a such_o be_v the_o mind_n and_o its_o frame_n if_o they_o be_v holy_a spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a such_o may_v the_o frame_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v judge_v to_o be_v but_o these_o thing_n must_v be_v more_o full_o explain_v it_o be_v the_o great_a character_n and_o description_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o man_n mind_n in_o a_o unregenerate_a condition_n or_o before_o the_o renovation_n of_o their_o nature_n that_o every_o imagination_n of_o the_o thought_n of_o their_o heart_n be_v only_o evil_a continual_o gen._n 6.5_o they_o be_v continual_o coin_v figment_n and_o imagination_n in_o their_o heart_n stamp_v they_o into_o thought_n that_o be_v vain_a foolish_a and_o wicked_a all_o other_o thought_n in_o they_o be_v occasional_a these_o be_v the_o natural_a genuine_a product_n of_o their_o heart_n hence_o the_o clear_a and_o sometime_o first_o discovery_n of_o the_o bottomless_a evil_a treasure_n of_o filth_n folly_n and_o wickedness_n that_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n by_o nature_n be_v from_o the_o innumerable_a multitude_n of_o evil_a imagination_n which_o be_v there_o coin_a and_o thrust_v forth_o every_o day_n so_o the_o wicked_a be_v say_v to_o be_v like_o the_o trouble_a sea_n when_o it_o can_v rest_v who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt_n isa._n 57.20_o there_o be_v a_o fullness_n of_o evil_n in_o their_o heart_n like_o that_o of_o water_n in_o the_o sea_n this_o fullness_n be_v trouble_v or_o put_v into_o continual_a motion_n by_o their_o lust_n and_o impetuous_a desire_n hence_o the_o mire_n and_o dirt_n of_o evil_a thought_n be_v continual_o cast_v up_o in_o they_o it_o be_v therefore_o evident_a that_o the_o predominancy_n of_o voluntary_a thought_n be_v the_o best_a and_o most_o sure_a indication_n of_o the_o inward_a frame_n and_o state_n of_o the_o mind_n for_o if_o it_o be_v so_o on_o the_o one_o side_n as_o unto_o the_o carnal_a mind_n it_o be_v so_o on_o the_o other_o as_o unto_o the_o spiritual_a wherefore_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o the_o first_o place_n be_v to_o have_v the_o course_n and_o stream_n of_o those_o thought_n which_o we_o ordinary_o retreat_v unto_o which_o we_o approve_v of_o as_o suit_v unto_o our_o affection_n to_o be_v about_o spiritual_a thing_n therein_o consist_v the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n but_o because_o all_o man_n unless_o horrible_o profligate_v have_v thought_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n yet_o we_o know_v that_o all_o man_n be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v we_o must_v consider_v what_o be_v require_v unto_o such_o thought_n to_o render_v they_o a_o certain_a indication_n of_o the_o state_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o there_o be_v these_o three_o thing_n require_v hereunto_o 1._o that_o they_o be_v natural_a arise_v from_o ourselves_o and_o not_o from_o outward_a occasion_n the_o psalmist_n mention_n the_o inward_a thought_n of_o man_n psal._n 49.11_o &_o 64.6_o but_o whereas_o all_o thought_n be_v the_o inward_a act_n of_o the_o mind_n it_o shall_v seem_v that_o this_o expression_n make_v no_o distinction_n of_o the_o especial_a kind_n of_o thought_n intend_v from_o those_o of_o another_o sort_n but_o the_o difference_n be_v not_o in_o the_o formal_a nature_n of_o they_o but_o in_o the_o cause_n spring_n and_o occasion_n inward_a thought_n be_v such_o as_o arise_v mere_o and_o sole_o from_o man_n inward_a principle_n disposition_n and_o inclination_n that_o be_v not_o suggest_v or_o excite_v by_o any_o outward_a object_n such_o in_o wicked_a man_n be_v those_o act_n of_o their_o lust_n whereby_o they_o entice_v and_o seduce_v themselves_o jam._n 1.14_o their_o lust_n stir_v up_o thought_n lead_v and_o encourage_v they_o to_o make_v provision_n for_o the_o flesh_n these_o be_v their_o inward_a thought_n of_o the_o same_o nature_n be_v those_o thought_n which_o be_v the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n they_o be_v the_o first_o natural_a egress_n and_o genuine_a act_n of_o the_o habitual_a disposition_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o soul_n thus_o in_o covetous_a man_n there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o thought_n whereby_o their_o covetousness_n act_v itself_o first_o such_o as_o be_v occasion_v by_o outward_a object_n and_o opportunity_n so_o it_o be_v with_o achan_n josh._n 7.21_o when_o say_v he_o i_o see_v among_o the_o spoil_n a_o goodly_a babylonish_n garment_n and_o two_o hundred_o shekel_n of_o silver_n and_o a_o wedge_n of_o gold_n than_o i_o covet_v they_o his_o sight_n of_o they_o with_o a_o opportunity_n of_o possess_v himself_o of_o they_o excite_v covetous_a thought_n and_o desire_n in_o he_o so_o be_v it_o with_o other_o every_o day_n who_o occasion_n call_v they_o to_o converse_v with_o the_o object_n of_o their_o lusts._n and_o some_o by_o such_o object_n may_v be_v surprise_v into_o thought_n that_o their_o mind_n be_v not_o habitual_o incline_v unto_o and_o therefore_o when_o they_o be_v know_v it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o avoid_v they_o but_o the_o same_o sort_n of_o person_n have_v thought_n of_o this_o nature_n arise_v from_o themselves_o only_o their_o own_o disposition_n and_o inclination_n without_o any_o outward_a provocation_n the_o vile_a person_n will_v speak_v villainy_n and_o his_o heart_n will_v work_v iniquity_n isa._n 32.6_o and_o this_o he_o do_v as_o the_o liberal_a devise_v liberal_a thing_n v_o 8._o from_o his_o own_o disposition_n and_o inclination_n he_o be_v contrive_v in_o his_o thought_n how_o to_o act_v according_a to_o they_o so_o the_o unclean_a person_n have_v two_o sort_n of_o thought_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o his_o lusts._n first_o such_o as_o be_v occasion_v in_o his_o mind_n by_o the_o external_a object_n of_o it_o hereunto_o stageplay_n revel_v dance_n with_o the_o society_n of_o bold_a person_n person_n of_o corrupt_a communication_n do_v contribute_v their_o wicked_a service_n for_o the_o avoidance_n of_o this_o snare_n job_n make_v a_o covenant_n with_o his_o eye_n chap._n 31.1_o and_o our_o saviour_n give_v that_o holy_a declaration_n of_o the_o evil_a of_o it_o mat._n 5.28_o but_o he_o have_v a_o habitual_a spring_n of_o these_o thought_n in_o himself_o constant_o incline_v and_o dispose_v he_o thereunto_o hence_o the_o apostle_n peter_n tell_v we_o that_o such_o person_n have_v eye_n full_a of_o a_o adulteress_n that_o can_v cease_v from_o sin_n 2_o ep._n 2.14_o their_o own_o affection_n make_v they_o restless_a in_o their_o thought_n and_o contrivance_n about_o sin_n so_o be_v it_o with_o they_o who_o be_v give_v to_o excess_n in_o wine_n or_o strong_a drink_n they_o have_v please_a thought_n raise_v in_o they_o from_o the_o object_n of_o their_o lust_n represent_v unto_o they_o hence_o solomon_n give_v that_o advice_n against_o the_o occasion_n of_o they_o prov._n 23.31_o but_o it_o be_v their_o own_o habitual_a disposition_n which_o carry_v they_o unto_o please_a thought_n of_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o their_o lust_n which_o he_o describe_v v_o 34_o 35._o so_o be_v it_o in_o other_o case_n the_o thought_n of_o this_o latter_a sort_n be_v man_n inward_a thought_n and_o such_o must_v these_o be_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n whence_o we_o may_v be_v esteem_v spiritual_o mind_v psal._n 45.1_o say_v the_o
two_o thing_n that_o the_o weak_a sort_n of_o believer_n may_v be_v exercise_v with_o in_o their_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o existence_n which_o may_v occasion_v they_o some_o trouble_n 1._o satan_n know_v the_o weakness_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o the_o immediate_a contemplation_n of_o thing_n infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a will_v sometime_o take_v advantage_n to_o insinuate_v blasphemous_a imagination_n in_o opposition_n unto_o what_o we_o will_v fix_v upon_o and_o relieve_v ourselves_o withal_o he_o will_v take_v that_o very_a time_n trust_v unto_o our_o weakness_n and_o his_o own_o method_n of_o subtlety_n to_o suggest_v his_o temptation_n unto_o atheism_n by_o ensnare_a inquiry_n when_o we_o go_v about_o to_o refresh_v our_o soul_n with_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o excellency_n but_o be_v there_o a_o god_n indeed_o how_o do_v you_o know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n and_o may_v it_o not_o be_v otherwise_o will_v be_v his_o language_n unto_o our_o mind_n for_o from_o his_o first_o temptation_n by_o way_n of_o a_o ensnare_a question_n yea_o and_o have_v god_n say_v it_o you_o shall_v not_o eat_v of_o every_o tree_n of_o the_o garden_n he_o proceed_v still_o much_o in_o the_o same_o method_n so_o he_o do_v with_o our_o saviour_n himself_o if_o thou_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v there_o a_o god_n how_o if_o there_o shall_v be_v none_o in_o such_o a_o case_n the_o rule_n be_v give_v we_o by_o the_o apostle_n above_o all_o take_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n whereby_o you_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o quench_v all_o the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o the_o wicked_a eph._n 6.16_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o wicked_a one_o that_o be_v the_o devil_n and_o two_o way_n will_v faith_n act_n itself_o on_o this_o occasion_n 1._o by_o a_o speedy_a rejection_n of_o such_o diabolical_a suggestion_n with_o detestation_n so_o do_v our_o saviour_n in_o a_o case_n not_o unlike_o it_o get_v thou_o behind_o i_o satan_n wherefore_o if_o any_o such_o thought_n be_v suggest_v or_o seem_v to_o arise_v in_o your_o mind_n know_v assure_o that_o they_o be_v no_o less_o immediate_o from_o the_o devil_n than_o if_o he_o personal_o stand_v before_o you_o and_o visible_o appear_v unto_o you_o if_o he_o do_v so_o there_o be_v none_o of_o you_o but_o will_v arm_v yourselves_o with_o a_o utter_a defiance_n of_o what_o he_o shall_v offer_v unto_o you_o it_o be_v no_o less_o necessary_a on_o this_o occasion_n when_o you_o may_v feel_v he_o though_o you_o see_v he_o not_o suffer_v not_o his_o fiery_a dart_n to_o abide_v one_o moment_n with_o you_o entertain_v no_o parley_n or_o dispute_v about_o they_o reject_v they_o with_o indignation_n and_o strengthen_v your_o rejection_n of_o they_o with_o some_o pertinent_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n as_o our_o saviour_n do_v if_o a_o man_n have_v a_o granado_n or_o fireball_n cast_v into_o his_o clothes_n by_o his_o enemy_n he_o do_v not_o consider_v whether_o it_o will_v burn_v or_o no_o but_o immediate_o shake_v it_o off_o from_o he_o deal_v no_o otherwise_o with_o these_o fiery_a dart_n lest_o by_o their_o abode_n with_o you_o they_o inflame_v your_o imagination_n unto_o great_a disturbance_n 2._o in_o case_n they_o utter_o depart_v not_o upon_o this_o endeavour_n for_o their_o exclusion_n and_o cast_v out_o return_v immediate_o without_o further_a dispute_n unto_o your_o own_o experience_n when_o the_o devil_n have_v ask_v you_o the_o question_n if_o you_o answer_v he_o you_o will_v be_v ensnare_v but_o if_o thereon_o you_o ask_v yourselves_o the_o question_n and_o apply_v yourselves_o unto_o your_o own_o experience_n for_o a_o answer_n unto_o it_o you_o will_v frustrate_v all_o his_o design_n there_o be_v argument_n to_o be_v take_v as_o be_v say_v from_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o reason_n in_o its_o proper_a exercise_n sufficient_a to_o defeat_v all_o objection_n of_o that_o kind_n but_o these_o be_v not_o our_o proper_a weapon_n in_o case_n of_o our_o own_o temptation_n which_o alone_o be_v now_o under_o consideration_n it_o require_v long_a and_o more_o sedate_v reason_v than_o such_o a_o state_n will_v admit_v of_o nor_o be_v it_o a_o sanctify_a medium_n for_o our_o relief_n it_o be_v what_o be_v suit_v unto_o suggestion_n on_o the_o occasion_n of_o our_o meditation_n that_o we_o inquire_v after_o in_o they_o we_o be_v not_o to_o argue_v on_o such_o principle_n but_o to_o take_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n to_o quench_v these_o fiery_a dart_n and_o if_o on_o such_o occasion_n satan_n can_v divert_v we_o into_o long_a dispute_n about_o the_o be_v of_o god_n he_o have_v his_o end_n by_o carry_v we_o off_o from_o the_o meditation_n on_o he_o which_o we_o do_v design_n and_o after_o a_o while_o he_o will_v prevail_v to_o make_v it_o a_o common_a road_n and_o trade_n that_o no_o soon_o shall_v we_o begin_v to_o think_v of_o god_n but_o immediate_o we_o must_v dispute_v about_o his_o be_v therefore_o the_o way_n in_o this_o case_n for_o he_o who_o be_v real_o a_o believer_n be_v to_o retreat_v immediate_o unto_o his_o own_o experience_n which_o will_v pour_v shame_n and_o contempt_n on_o the_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n there_o be_v no_o believer_n who_o have_v knowledge_n and_o time_n to_o exercise_v the_o wisdom_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o consideration_n of_o himself_o and_o of_o god_n deal_n with_o he_o but_o have_v a_o witness_n in_o himself_o of_o his_o eternal_a power_n and_o godhead_n as_o also_o of_o all_o those_o other_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n which_o he_o be_v please_v to_o manifest_v and_o glorify_v by_o jesus_n christ._n wherefore_o on_o this_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n that_o there_o be_v no_o god_n he_o will_v be_v able_a to_o say_v that_o he_o may_v better_o tell_v i_o that_o i_o do_v not_o live_v nor_o breathe_v that_o i_o be_o not_o feed_v by_o my_o meat_n nor_o warm_v by_o my_o clothes_n that_o i_o know_v not_o myself_o nor_o any_o thing_n else_o for_o i_o have_v spiritual_a sense_n and_o experience_n of_o the_o contrary_a like_v he_o of_o old_a who_o when_o a_o cunning_a sophister_n will_v prove_v unto_o he_o by_o syllogism_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n as_o motion_n he_o give_v no_o answer_n unto_o his_o argument_n but_o rise_v up_o and_o walk_v how_o often_o will_v he_o say_v have_v i_o have_v experience_n of_o the_o power_n and_o presence_n of_o god_n in_o prayer_n as_o though_o i_o have_v not_o only_o hear_v of_o he_o by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o ear_n but_o also_o see_v he_o by_o the_o see_n of_o the_o eye_n how_o often_o have_v he_o put_v forth_o his_o power_n and_o grace_n in_o i_o by_o his_o spirit_n and_o his_o word_n with_o a_o uncontrollable_a evidence_n of_o his_o be_v goodness_n love_n and_o grace_n how_o often_o have_v he_o refresh_v my_o conscience_n with_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n speak_v that_o peace_n unto_o my_o soul_n which_o all_o the_o world_n can_v not_o communicate_v unto_o i_o in_o how_o many_o affliction_n danger_n trouble_n have_v he_o be_v a_o present_a help_n and_o relief_n what_o sensible_a emanation_n of_o life_n and_o power_n from_o he_o have_v i_o obtain_v in_o meditation_n on_o his_o grace_n and_o glory_n as_o he_o who_o have_v be_v blind_a answer_v the_o pharisee_n unto_o their_o ensnare_a captious_a question_n be_v it_o what_o it_o will_v one_o thing_n i_o know_v that_o whereas_o i_o be_v blind_a now_o i_o see_v whatever_o say_v such_o a_o soul_n be_v in_o this_o temptation_n of_o satan_n one_o thing_n i_o know_v full_a well_o that_o whereas_o i_o be_v dead_a i_o be_o alive_a whereas_o i_o be_v blind_a now_o i_o see_v and_o that_o by_o a_o effect_n of_o divine_a power_n this_o shield_n of_o faith_n manage_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o experience_n will_v quench_v the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n and_o he_o will_v fall_v under_o a_o double_a defeat_n 1._o his_o temptation_n will_v be_v repel_v by_o the_o proper_a way_n of_o resistance_n whereon_o he_o will_v not_o only_o desist_v in_o his_o attempt_n but_o even_o fly_v from_o you_o resist_v the_o devil_n say_v the_o apostle_n and_o he_o will_v fly_v from_o you_o he_o will_v not_o only_o depart_v and_o cease_v to_o trouble_v you_o but_o will_v depart_v as_o one_o defeat_v and_o confound_v and_o it_o be_v for_o want_v of_o this_o resistance_n lively_o make_v use_n of_o that_o many_o hang_v so_o long_o in_o the_o briar_n of_o this_o temptation_n 2._o recall_v the_o experience_n we_o have_v have_v of_o god_n will_v lead_v we_o unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v the_o great_a disappointment_n of_o our_o adversary_n 2._o in_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o existence_n we_o be_v apt_a to_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n to_o be_v as_o it_o be_v overwhelm_v in_o
our_o mind_n because_o the_o object_n be_v too_o great_a and_o glorious_a for_o we_o to_o contemplate_v on_o eternity_n and_o immensity_n every_o thing_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o infinite_a take_v off_o the_o mind_n from_o its_o distinct_a act_n and_o reduce_v it_o as_o it_o be_v unto_o nothing_o hereon_o in_o some_o not_o able_a to_o abide_v in_o the_o strict_a reason_n of_o thing_n vain_a and_o foolish_a imagination_n be_v apt_a to_o arise_v and_o inquiry_n how_o can_v these_o thing_n be_v which_o we_o can_v comprehend_v other_o be_v utter_o at_o a_o loss_n and_o turn_v away_o their_o thought_n from_o they_o as_o they_o will_v do_v their_o eye_n from_o the_o bright_a beam_n of_o the_o sun_n two_o thing_n be_v adviseable_a in_o this_o case_n 1._o that_o we_o betake_v ourselves_o unto_o a_o holy_a admiration_n of_o what_o we_o can_v comprehend_v in_o these_o thing_n we_o can_v see_v god_n and_o live_v nay_o in_o life_n eternal_a itself_o they_o be_v not_o absolute_o to_o be_v comprehend_v only_o what_o be_v infinite_a can_v full_o comprehend_v what_o be_v so_o here_o they_o be_v the_o object_n of_o faith_n and_o worship_n in_o they_o we_o may_v find_v rest_n and_o satisfaction_n when_o inquiry_n and_o reason_n will_v disquiet_v we_o and_o it_o may_v be_v overwhelm_v we_o infinite_a glory_n forbid_v we_o any_o near_a approach_n but_o only_o by_o faith_n the_o soul_n thereby_o bow_v down_o itself_o unto_o god_n adoreable_a greatness_n and_o imcomprehensible_a perfection_n find_v ourselves_o to_o be_v nothing_o and_o god_n to_o be_v all_o will_v give_v we_o rest_v and_o peace_n in_o these_o thing_n rom._n 11.33_o 34_o 35_o 36._o we_o have_v but_o unsteady_a thought_n of_o the_o greatness_n of_o the_o world_n and_o all_o the_o nation_n and_o inhabitant_n of_o it_o yet_o be_v both_o it_o and_o these_o but_o as_o the_o dust_n of_o the_o balance_n and_o the_o drop_n of_o the_o bucket_n as_o vanity_n as_o nothing_o compare_v with_o god_n what_o then_o can_v our_o thought_n concern_v he_o issue_n in_o but_o holy_a admiration_n 2._o in_o case_n we_o be_v bring_v unto_o a_o loss_n and_o disorder_n in_o our_o mind_n on_o the_o contemplation_n of_o any_o one_o infinite_a property_n of_o god_n it_o be_v good_a to_o divert_v our_o thought_n unto_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o such_o as_o whereof_o we_o have_v or_o may_v have_v experience_n for_o what_o be_v too_o great_a or_o high_a for_o we_o in_o itself_o be_v make_v suitable_a to_o our_o understanding_n in_o its_o effect_n so_o the_o invisible_a thing_n of_o god_n be_v know_v in_o and_o by_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v see_v and_o there_o be_v indeed_o no_o property_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n but_o we_o may_v have_v a_o experience_n of_o it_o as_o unto_o some_o of_o its_o effect_n in_o and_o upon_o ourselves_o these_o we_o may_v consider_v and_o in_o the_o stream_n taste_v of_o the_o fountain_n which_o we_o can_v approach_v by_o they_o we_o may_v be_v lead_v unto_o a_o holy_a admiration_n of_o what_o be_v in_o itself_o infinite_a immense_a imcomprehensible_a i_o can_v comprehend_v the_o immensity_n of_o god_n nature_n it_o may_v be_v i_o can_v understand_v the_o nature_n of_o immensity_n yet_o if_o i_o find_v by_o experience_n and_o do_v strong_o believe_v that_o he_o be_v always_o present_a wherever_o i_o be_o i_o have_v the_o faith_n of_o it_o and_o satisfaction_n in_o it_o 2._o with_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v those_o of_o his_o omnipresence_n and_o omniscience_n ought_v continual_o to_o accompany_v we_o we_o can_v take_v one_o step_n in_o a_o walk_n before_o he_o unless_o we_o remember_v that_o always_o and_o in_o all_o place_n he_o be_v present_a with_o we_o that_o the_o frame_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o our_o inward_a thought_n be_v continual_o in_o his_o view_n no_o less_o than_o our_o outward_a action_n and_o as_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v perpetual_o under_o a_o awe_n of_o and_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n in_o these_o apprehension_n so_o there_o be_v some_o season_n wherein_o our_o mind_n ought_v to_o be_v in_o the_o actual_a conception_n and_o thought_n of_o they_o without_o which_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v preserve_v in_o our_o duty_n 1._o the_o first_o season_n of_o this_o nature_n be_v when_o time_n place_n with_o other_o occasion_n of_o temptation_n and_o consequent_o of_o sin_v do_v come_v and_o meet_v with_o some_o company_n do_v constitute_v such_o a_o season_n and_o with_o some_o secrecy_n with_o opportunity_n do_v the_o same_o there_o be_v those_o who_o be_v ready_a with_o a_o careless_a boldness_n to_o put_v themselves_o on_o such_o society_n as_o they_o do_v know_v have_v be_v temptation_n unto_o they_o and_o occasion_n of_o sin_n every_o such_o entrance_n into_o any_o society_n or_o company_n unto_o they_o who_o know_v how_o it_o have_v former_o succeed_v be_v their_o actual_a sin_n and_o it_o be_v just_a with_o god_n to_o leave_v they_o to_o all_o the_o evil_a consequent_n that_o do_v ensue_v other_o also_o do_v either_o choose_v or_o be_v frequent_o cast_v on_o such_o society_n and_o no_o soon_o be_v they_o engage_v in_o they_o but_o they_o forget_v all_o regard_n unto_o god_n and_o give_v themselves_o up_o not_o only_o unto_o vanity_n but_o unto_o various_a sort_n of_o excess_n david_n know_v the_o evil_a and_o danger_n of_o such_o occasion_n and_o give_v we_o a_o account_n of_o his_o behaviour_n in_o they_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 as_o for_o their_o evil_a word_n and_o way_n he_o will_v have_v no_o communication_n with_o they_o and_o as_o unto_o good_a discourse_n he_o judge_v it_o unseasonable_a to_o cast_v pearl_n before_o swine_n he_o be_v therefore_o silent_a as_o unto_o that_o also_o though_o it_o be_v a_o grief_n and_o trouble_n to_o he_o but_o this_o occasion_v in_o he_o afterward_o those_o excellent_a meditation_n which_o he_o express_v in_o the_o follow_a verse_n in_o the_o entrance_n of_o these_o occasion_n if_o man_n will_v remember_v the_o presence_n of_o god_n with_o they_o in_o these_o place_n with_o the_o holy_a severity_n of_o the_o eye_n that_o be_v upon_o they_o it_o will_v put_v a_o awe_n upon_o their_o spirit_n and_o embitter_v those_o jollity_n who_o relish_n be_v give_v they_o by_o temptation_n and_o sin_n he_o do_v neither_o walk_n humble_o nor_o circumspect_o who_o be_v unnecessary_o cast_v on_o the_o society_n of_o man_n wicked_a or_o profane_a on_o such_o occasion_n wherein_o the_o ordinary_a sort_n of_o man_n give_v more_o than_o ordinary_a liberty_n unto_o corrupt_a communication_n or_o excess_n in_o any_o kind_n do_v not_o in_o his_o entrance_n of_o they_o call_v to_o mind_v the_o presence_n and_o all-seeing_a eye_n of_o god_n and_o at_o his_o departure_n from_o they_o consider_v whether_o his_o deportment_n have_v be_v such_o as_o become_v that_o presence_n and_o his_o be_v under_o that_o eye_n but_o alas_o pretence_n of_o business_n and_o necessary_a occasion_n engagement_n of_o trade_n carnal_a relation_n and_o the_o common_a course_n of_o communication_n in_o the_o world_n with_o a_o supposition_n that_o all_o sort_n of_o society_n be_v allow_v for_o diversion_n have_v cast_v out_o the_o remembrance_n of_o god_n from_o the_o mind_n of_o most_o even_o then_o when_o man_n can_v be_v preserve_v from_o sin_n without_o it_o this_o have_v sully_v the_o beauty_n of_o gospel_n conversation_n among_o the_o most_o and_o leave_v in_o very_a few_o any_o prevalent_a evidence_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v wherefore_o as_o unto_o they_o who_o either_o by_o their_o voluntary_a choice_n or_o necessity_n of_o their_o occasion_n do_v enter_v and_o engage_v pomiscuous_o into_o all_o society_n and_o company_n let_v they_o know_v assure_o that_o if_o they_o awe_v not_o their_o heart_n and_o spirit_n continual_o with_o the_o thought_n and_o apprehension_n of_o the_o omnipresence_n and_o omniscience_n of_o god_n that_o he_o be_v always_o with_o they_o and_o his_o eye_n always_o upon_o they_o they_o will_v not_o be_v preserve_v from_o snare_n and_o sinful_a miscarriage_n yea_o such_o thought_n be_v needful_a unto_o the_o best_a of_o we_o all_o and_o in_o the_o best_a of_o our_o society_n that_o we_o behave_v not_o ourselves_o undecent_o in_o they_o at_o any_o time_n again_o unto_o some_o privacy_n secrecy_n and_o opportunity_n be_v occasion_n of_o temptation_n and_o sin_n they_o be_v so_o unto_o person_n under_o conviction_n not_o whole_o turn_v to_o god_n