Psal. 89.16 See Psal. 33.21 8. Indisposition Comforts against it In the thoughts of our indisposiâ—ion to any thing that is good let these places quicken us I can doe all things through CHRIST that strengthneth mee Phil. 4.13 Yee shall be unto mee a kingdome of Priests Exod. 19.6 We shall be able to offer unto GOD the sacrifice of prayer or praise In every place incense shall be offered to my name and a pure offering Mal. 1.11 which is spoken of the beleeving Gentiles 9. Distractions Comforts against them GOD promiseth in the Covenant of grace Ezek. 11.19 To give his people one heart CHRIST prayed that we might have this one heart Iohn 17.21 23. and be one with GOD. When we are troubled with distractions in prayer hearing or meditation wee should pleade the Covenant and pray with David O LORD unite my heart to thee 10. Evils of good done Promises or comforts to the godly for evils of good done GOD not onely accepteth and taketh in good part the poorest service we doe to him notwithstanding our corruptions and frailties but even delighteth and taketh great pleasure in them Cant. 2.14 as a Father delights more in the stammering of his little childe then in the eloquence of the best Orator CHRIST presenteth and perfumeth our prayers to his Father Rev. 8.3 1 Pet. 2.5 And it shall be upon Aarons fore-head that Aaron may beare the iniquity of the holy things and that they may be accepted before the LORD Exod. 28.38 Aaron was a Type of CHRIST who by his intercession perfumes our prayers and doth away the blemishes that cleave to our best actions Loving Parents doe not take notice of many blemishes in their children so GOD seeth no iniquity in Iacob nor any transgression in Israel Num. 23.21 But passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage which makes the Prophet in the beginning of the verse in admiration to cry Who is a GOD like to thee 11. Comforts against Feares of their falling from GOD who labour to work out their salvation with feare and trembling 1. In regard of GOD. 1. His Counsell on which mans salvation is founded is sure and unchangeable and his calling without repentance Rom. 11.29 2. His Love is everlasting and inviolable Ier. 31.3 Rom. 8.35 ult 3. His Mercy like his Lovâ— is â—verlasting Psal. 103.17 Psal. 100.5.106.1 107.1 Luke 1.50 It is iterated 26. times in 136. Psalme 4. His Will is for such Luke 12.32 Iohn 6.39 His Grace and that is all-sufficient 2 Cor. 12.9 5. His Power is for such and that is Almighty Ioh 10.27 28 29. Iude 24.2 Tim. 1.12 6. His faithfullnesse and truth make both for this 2 Thess. 3.3 2. In regard of CHRIST 1. Because of our union with him He is the Head we the members and he will not suffer any to perish that are ingraffed into him Ioh. 6.39 Ioh. 17.22 23 26. 2. From the perpetuall efficacie of his intercession Rom. 8.34 Heb. 7.21 Hee is a Priest for ever and alwaies intercedes for his What he said to Peter I have prayed that thy faith faile not Luke 22.32 Hee performeth for all He is the Author and finisheâ— of our faith Heb. 12.2 3. In regard of the HOLY GHOST 1. His continuall assistance Hee shall abide with us for ever John 14.16 And hee which hath begun a good work will finish it Phil. 1.6 2. His Obsignation which is irrevocable every one that beleeveth is sealed by the holy Spirit of promise Ephes. 1.13 14. sealed for ever 4.30 2 Cor. 1.22 an honest man will not break his bargaine when there is earnest and evidence for it therefore Chrysostome saith elegantly if GOD having once given this earnest should not also give the rest of the inheritance He should undergo the losse of his earnest 4. The lasting power of the Word once rooted in the good and honest heart Luke 8.15 It is called immortall seed 1 Pet. 1.23 25. The engraffed Word James 1.21 The seed remaining 1 Joh. 3.9 5. The certainty and sweetnesse of the promises to this purpose GOD hath promised that his people shall not be mooved from the state of grace Psal. 15.5 16.8 Psal. 37.24 27 28 31. Psal. 55.22 102.28 Pro. 10.30 Psal. 125.1 Hee will not cast off his people nor forsake his inheritance Psal. 94.14 1 Sam. 12.22 And hee will put his feare into their hearts that they shall not depart from him For this is his Covenant with his people Ier. 32.39 40 41. Hosea 2.19 20. Hee upholdeth them with his hand that they shall not fall away Hee will confirme them unto the end that they may be blamâ—lesse in the day of our LORD JESUS CHRIST 1 Cor. 1.8 9. the like is 1 Thess. 5.23 24 GOD hath made more promises to hold up his children then ever he made to hold up the pillars of the world 6. The prayers of the whole Church of GOD which are very prevalent and powerfull Ioh. 16.23 the daily sacrifice of beleevers is ne inducas in tentationem 7. The force and might of faith 1 Pet. 1.2 3 4 5. 8. The durable vigour of saving graces John 4.14 our Saviour hath promised Iohn 16.22 that he will give unto the faithfull such constant and permanent joy as no man shall be able to take from them He hath prayed that our faith may not faile Luke 22.32 It is a stable grace 1 Ioh. 5.4 1 Pet. 2.6 Comforts to the Godly who are troubled with many and strong corruptions and likewise want the meanes of grace either 1. Altogether 2. In the power of them 3. Or having them so yet profit not by them 1. Comforts in case of dismayednesse under many and strong corruptions I will sprinkle cleane water upon you and you shall be cleane â—rom all your filthinesse and from all your idols will I cleanse you Ezek. 36.25 Though thy sinnes were as great as Idolatry in the first Table or Whoredome in the second yet GOD will forgive and sanctifie thee He will cast all our sinnes into the depths of the sea Micah 7.19 The sea can drowne mountaines as well as mole-hills Though they were as crimson and scarlet which will take no other die yet in CHRISTS bloud they shall bee made as white as wooll and snow Esay 1.18 All manner of sinnes and blasphemies shall be forgiven unto men Matth. 12.31 CHRIST came to save sinners 1 Tim. 1.15 It matters not what the wound is so CHRIST be the Physitian Where sin that is the knowledge and feeling of sinne abounded grace over-abounded Rom. 5.20 have wee a multitude and magnitude of sinnes GOD hath a multitude and magnitude of mercies Have mercy upon mee O GOD according unto the multitude so wee translate it the Hebrew word Rob signifieth also magnitude of thy tender mercies Two things terrifie penitent sinners 1. The multitude and exceeding great number of evils whereof they are guilty he tels
for the children of Israel Esay 66.11 That they should sucke and be satisfied with the breasts of consolation A worthy Divine observes well the Emphasis of the originall Two Metaphors are there used one is to milke consolation out of the Promises the meaning is this that the promises are full of comfort as a dugge is full of milke for he repeateth the promise presently after now if thou be ready to faint goe and milke out consolation out of the promises and that will relieve thee and stay thy heart The other Metaphore is to extort the promises as a rich man oppresseth a poore man and gets out of him all that he is worth so deale with the Promises for they are rich there is a price in them now when a man is poore and needy let him goe to the rich promises and be an extortioner to them that is consider them to the utmost see the utmost riches that is contained in them and they will make thee rich Againe draw out the utmost of the milke that is in them and it will exceedingly revive and comfort thee CHAP. IIII. 4. The right Vse of them WEe should labour to work upon our selves to be holy upon Consideration of GODS promises thus is GOD our Father is he holy And are wee his Sonnes and Daughters and professe our selves to be so and shall we be uncleane Hath GOD promised to pardon our sinnes and shall we therefore provoke and grieve him every day more and more by our sinnes shall we thus requite the bounty mercy love and goodnesse of GOD Hath he promised us a Crowne and Kingdome an immortall and eternall Inheritance that can never be shaken nor taken from us and shall not we labour to walke worthy of the sâ—ne When the LORD renewed the promise of the Land of Canaan to the children of Israel Deut. 10.11 12. He doth inferre this use upon the same And now O Israel saith hee what doth the LORD require of thee but to feare the LORD thy GOD to walke in all his waies and to love him and to serve the LORD thy GOD with all thy heart and with all thy soule As if he should say since GOD hath made thee so large promises there is somewhat required at thy hands to do So Rom. 12.1 I beseech you Brethren by the mercies of GOD since GOD hath beene so mercifull towards you both in promises and performances for so fâ—rre that may be extended that therefore you giâ—e up your bodies a living sacrifice holy acceptable unto GOD. But because the right use of the Promise is a meanes to sweeten all our afflictions confirme our faith excite us to well-doing and to breede contentation of minde in all estates and conditions whatsoever something shall be premised generally concerning the use of them and then speciall rules laid downe to direct us how to use them For the generall three things are to be observed 1. We must labour to be acquainted with them 2. Faithfully to remember them 3. Wisely and fitly to apply them 1. We are to acquaint our selves familiarly with those Promises which are most Generall Precious and Fundamentall wherein GODS power and goodnesse is principally seene Such a speech there is in Iob Acquaint thy selfe with him and be at peace thereby good shall come unto thee Receive the law from his mouth and lay up his words in thine heart If we have an herbe in our garden that would ease our griefe and we know it not what are we the nearer So if we know not the Promises though they be in the booke what are we the better 2. We should strive to remember the Promises for that which is not remembred is not knowne David hid GODS promises in his heart Psal. 119.111 and those upheld him in his trouble and he received admirable comfort by them verse 50. The Promises of GOD are the Magna Charta of a Christian his chiefe evidence for Heaven Now if men do so highly prize their Charters and Priviledges and carefully keepe the conveyances and assurances of their Lands how should we then treasure up these promises which unto the Faithfull are in stead of all assurances for his maintenance protection assistance deliverance comfort and everlasting happinesse The Apostle sheweth that the cause of the Hebrewes fainting in their troubles was this they had forgotten the consolation that is the comfortable promises of GOD made unto them for the strengthening of their faith in the fiery triall As a Lamp saith Chrysostome will soone be out if oyle be not continually supplied so faith if it be not nourished with continuall meditation of GODS promises will soone faile 3. We should beleeve the promises and apply them particularly to our selves Faith apprehends the promises not onely as true and so assents but as good and sweet and so adheres and cleaves unto them Thy loving kindnesse apprehended by faith is better then life Psal. 63.3 The apprehension of Faith is with feeling sweetnesse in CHRIST and in the Promises and therefore called The receiving of CHRIST Iohn 1.12 The eating and drinking of his flesh Iohn 6. Psal. 34.8 Taste and see that the LORD is good that is Beleeve in him as appeares by the reason added Blessed is the man that trusteth in him When the understanding hath judged aright of the promises and adjudged them to our selves that they belong to us then the will welcomes them claspes about them hugges them and as it is Heb. 11.13 kisses and embraces them and when the heart thus kindly entertaines the promises then with old Simeon we hold CHRIST in our armes GOD himselfe applieth the promises outwardly in the Word and inwardly by the testimony of his Spirit and is wont to make good his promises unto his children proportionably to their trust in them and dependance upon his truth and goodnesse for a seasonable performance of them Be it unto thee according to thy saith Matth. 9.29 All things are possible to him that beleeveth Mark 9.23 That we may apply GODS Promises we are to use two meanes 1. Fixed Meditation we should ponder well and muse upon the promise Pondering is when a man lifts any thing to see what weight it beares so ought faith to doe with the promise sound the sweetnesse of it to the bottome and that 1. By marking it wee should set a starre upon the Margin of a speciall promise and by the book that culs out promises of note in this kinde 2. Musing of it we should dwell upon it Mary pondered the Angels words in her heart 3. Making the word of promise familiar by frequency we should get it by heart till it be easie so did David make the promise his Counsellor and Companion Psal. 119.24 When we go to prayer we should chew of those promises Rom. 8.26 Iam. 1.5 When we go about our callings we should thinke seriously of that promise Psal 121.8 When any crosse befalleth us we should remember
before he came to the Crowne insomuch that he saies of himselfe Psal. 119.82 Mine eyes faile for thy Word The promise which was made unto Simeon was not accomplished till hee was an old man ready to die yet he continued to waite The deliverance of Israel was promised 400. yeares before it was fulfilled Gen. 15.13 GOD many times takes day 1. â—ither his children are not ready for it 2. Or hee doth it to exercise their faith and patience Heb. 6.15 to prove whether they can beleeve when they see not Deut. 8.2 3. Or hee lets them waite that they may more esteeme the blessings when they have them but never any could taxe him for promise-breaking GOD as he doth out-vie all for the largenesse of his promises so is he unmatchable for faithfullnesse in fulfilling his promises We reade of some that have promised halfe their kingdomes nay the Divell promised all the kingdomes of the world to our Saviour but GOD promiseth yet more and performeth better then any of them First he doth not promise by halves but he promiseth a whole Kingdome and such a one as is more worth then all the kingdomes of the world and excelleth them in foure properties as the Apostle Peter sheweth Nay one kingdome or one world is too little for him to give he promiseth to give to all the faithfull two worlds 1 Cor. 3.22 23. Things present and things to come all are yours both worlds are yours He performeth better also what hee hath promised then those before mentioned For the first of them were but men which often promise mountaines and performe mole-hills in this sence it may be said Let GOD be true and every man a lier and for the Divels promise that great All which he made profer on was just nothing but shadowes and representations of things He went about to coozen CHRIST with meere words for the kingdomes of the world were not in his power to give but GOD is both able and willing to performe whatsoever he hath promised his servants have often found him better never any worse then his word therefore wee should waite with patience for the fulfilling of his promises not limiting him to time manner or meanes of accomplishment CHAP. VI. 6. The persons to whom the promises belong 1. CHRIST as the head 2. His members FIrst a Covenant of Grace is made with CHRIST the Head of the Church Hee is the Foundation of it He was GOD and Man to reconcile both and is therefore called The Angell of the Covenant Mal. 3.1 The Covenant of the people Esay 49.8 The Mediator of the New Testament Heb. 12.24 and next in CHRIST it is made with all Christian men and women As he was Head of the Church and Redeemer he is the heire of all GODS Promises In him they are Yea and Amen that is in him they are propounded ratified and accomplished This is evident by those generall promises which are the foundation of all the rest Hee that is CHRIST shall breake thine head Gen. 3.15 In thy seed that is CHRIST shall the nations of the earth be blessed Gen. 22.18 The promises are made not to seedes as many but to seede viz. CHRIST in aggregato with his Chuâ—ch the Head and members together for JESUS together with all the Saints make but one mysticall body which is CHRIST 1 Cor. 12.12 Any promise or blessing that belongs to us belongs chiefely to CHRIST He is the Elder Brother That speech Hos. 11.1 I called my sonne out of Aegypt is meant speciâ—lly of the delivery of Israel by Moses out of the bondage of 〈◊〉 and yet it is a prophesâ—e of CHRISâ— and applied to him Matth. 2.15 That which is spoken Psal. 8. of mans digniâ—y above all other creatures as having all things put in subjection under him is interpreted of CHRIST Heb. 2.6 1 Cor. 15.27 All the good we have comes to us by and through him We are elected and called in him Ephes. 1.3 4. In him we have redemption Ephes. 1.7 Col. 1.14 Sanctification 1 Cor. 1.2 Adoption Ephes. 1.5 In him GOD is well pleased with us Matth. 3.17 He is Heire of all things Heb. 1.2 The Faithfull are Co-heires with him Rom. 8.17 They shall have the same substantiall though not graduall glory the same crowne the same kingdome Ioh. 17.22 24. GOD loves them with the same love that hee loâ—ed CHRIST verse 23. They are heires of all GODS most precious promises They are stiled Children of the Covenant Acts 3.25 Children of the Promise Rom. 9.8 Gal. 4.28 because they are made children of GOD by vertue of GODS promise Thus was Isaac the child of the promise in that he was borne to Abraham not by the strength of nature but by GODS promise They are also called Heires of the Promise Gal. 3.29 Heb. 6.12 17. 11.9 that is not onely such to whom the promises doe belong but such as claime their inheritance onely by adoption and promise Amongst men the eldest childe usually is the heire and carries away the Inheritance and the rest have but pettie portions but all the LORDS children are Heires and that not alone of the promises but of the glory promised Pareus hath an excellent similitude to illustrate this every one there saith he inherits all even as every man injoyeth the light of the Sunne as if it were made onely for him The promises made to Christ are Thou shalt be a Priest for ever and I will give thee the kingdome of David thou shalt be a Prince of peace and the governement shall be upon thy shoulders thou shalt be a Prophet to my people shalt open the prison to the captive The promises made to us are passive You shall be taught you shall be made Prophets you shall have your sinnes forgiven you shall be subiect to his government you shall be made Kings If onely they that are CHRISTS have benefit of the promises in CHRIST then the wicked have no part nor portion in this businesse the Divell sweeps all that are out of the covenant the childrens bread shall not be given to dogges GOD will not cast away precious things upon swine and those that are strangers from the covenant of promise Ephes. 2.12 GOD pâ—omiseth to satisfie but it is such as hunger for righteousnesse sake to comfort not the carelesse but such as mourne forgivenesse of sinnes but to the Penitent eternall life but to such as beleeve Except the condition be wrought in us the promise shall never be accomplished upon us walke before me and be thou upright and then I am GOD All-sufficient Gen. 17.1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way Psal. 119.1 Psal. 84.11 Ioh. 1.12 Gal. 3.7 9. Psal. 34.9 10. Pro. 19.16 Therefore in the 1. of S. Matthew when Abraham is said to have begotten Isaac there is no mention made of Ishmael which yet he begot and likewise when Isaac is said to have begotten Iacob
indeavours accepted He may expect protection in dangers and distresses Psal. 80.14 15 16. Every one protects their owne I am thine saith David save mee Psal. 119.94 He may looke to have his wants supplied Psal. 23.1 4. He may boldly challenge Sin Death Hell the Divell and victoriously triumph over them all with the Apostle 1 Cor. 15.55 56 57. and say with David The LORD is my light and my salvation whom shall I feare the LORD is the strength of my life of whom shall I be afraid Psal. 27.1 2. We should also improve the Covenant for all holy purposes We must with boldnesse and reverence challenge the Covenant of grace There cannot be a more forcible argument in prayer then to pleade GODS Covenant and the interest wee have in him Our Saviour Matth. 6.9 teaching us to pray bids us to say Our Father as if hee should say presume not to aske any petition of GOD till thou canst so conceive and be perswaded of him Those then who are GODS children may pray with confidence unto him as a Father ipsum nomen orat pro nobis The very name makes supplication for us Thus our Saviour CHRIST prayed O my Father three severall times Matth. 26.39 42 44. and My GOD My GOD Matth. 27.64 Psal. 22.1 The Papists urge their owne merits and merits of Saints in their prayers but GODS people have still urged Covenant Gen. 32.9 Nehem. 1.6.10.11 2 Chron. 14.11 20. 6 7. Psal. 16.1 2. Psal. 18.1 2 3 6. Psal. 22.1 116.16 Ioh. 17.6.9 10. Deut. 9.27 1 Sam. 12.22 Ier. 14.21 Vnite my heart saith David to thy feare Psal. 86.11 as if he should have said LORD thou hast promised to give mee one heart behold I finde my heart divided disjoynted unite it I beseech thee so those that are within the Covenant may goe to GOD and say LORD give mee wisedome faith patience for the discharge of my duty toward thee my heart is out of order LORD mend it it is thy bargaine thine owne Covenant O doe it for thy names sake GOD takes it well if we mind him of his Covenant and presse him with his promise Wee should also aggravate our sinnes in confession by this that wee have sinned against Covenant hand and seale our sinnes in that respect are worse then the sinnes of Pagans or Heathens they sinne but against Creation wee against Covenant whoredome is worse then fornication When wee are tempted to the committing of any sinne the Covenant should be a curbe to us wee should say no I must now lye no more sweare no more breake the LORDS day no more it is against my bargaine such a LORDS day in such a Congregation before such and such witnesses I tooke the Sacrament upon it that I would doe so no more when wee are taken off from any duty the Covenant should spurre us on wee should remember that wee have taken presse money and earnest as it were from GOD in our Baptisme that wee will be for him that wee have often renewed our first Covenant in the Sacrament and therefore there should be no flinching from our bargaine 2. Temporall Promises This second Table containes the Speciall Temporall Promises Speciall promises in regard of a mans selfe Temporall 1. In regard of evill 1. In generall Afflictions dangers 1. To prevent them 2. To qualifie them if they do come by correcting 1. In greâ—t wisedome which is seene in 1. The meetnesse of correction 2. The just measure and continuâ—nce thereof 2. In love and tendernâ—s 3. For good 1. General to make them happy 2. Speciall 1. To try them 2. To purge sin 3. To quicken Graces 1. Faith 〈…〉 2. Hope 3. Patience 3. To helpe us tâ— beare them and in due time to remove them 2. Speciall 1. Sicknesse 1. To prevent it 2. To helpe mâ—â— 3. To take it awâ—y 2. Povertie 3. Famine Promises to Succour in Deliverâ—tâ—â—n 4. Warre to preserve from it 5. Captivity Promises tâ— Comfort in Deliver â—ut 6. Witchcraft or the possession of the Divellâ— 7. Oppression 2. In regard of good 1. In generall to supply any thing needfull 2. In speciall for 1. Name 1. Honâ—ur 2. A goâ—d name 2. Body 1. Lonâ—-life 2. Health 3. Safety 4. Peace 5. Sleepe 6. Poâ—dâ—râ—iment 3. Estate 1. Wealth â— Good successe and prosperity 1. To their persâ—nâ— 2. To their purpâ—sâ—s 4. Calling Promises To diligence in it 1. Abundâ—â—ce and plentâ— 2. Protectiâ—n 3. Promâ—tâ—a 4. Good fate 5. It builds thâ— hâ—usâ— 6. It make 〈…〉 CHAP. II. Of Speciall Temporall Promises 1. Temporall Promises in regard of evill things 1. In Generall Afflictions and Dangers 1. To prevent them GOD will preserve his children from Afflictions and Dangers HE is a Buckler Gen. 15.1 Pro. 2.7 30.5 to keep them from all evill to cover and compasse them round about Psal. 5.11 12. Psal. 8.2 A wall of Brasse Ier. 1.18 and A wall of Fire about his children Zach. 2.5 As the mountaines are round about Ierusalem so the LORD is round about his people Psal. 125.2 There shall no evill befall thee neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling Psal. 91.10 The LORD shall preserve thee from all evill Psal. 121.7 There shall no evill touch thee Iob 5.19 GOD hath promised to protect his children in all their waies Psal. 91.11 and to preserve them in greatest dangers by Sea or land Fire and water are two mercilesse enemies yet the fire shall not burne nor the waters overflow them as GOD hath promised Esay 43.2 They must not passe by these by the fire and by the water but through the fire and through the water neither is here water mentioned onely but flouds or rivers of water nor fire onely but a flame too Surely in the flouds of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him Psal. 52.6 An asseveration is added to confirme their hearts and to shew the truth of the promise Though the earth and the heavens be shaken yet GOD will be the hope of his people Ioel 3.16 And they shall be hid in the day of his anger Zeph. 2.3 Therefore such who are in Covenant with GOD may looke to be freed from evills and dangers if it be for their good and in the valley of the shadow of death may assure themselves of GODS mercifull omnipotent presence Psal. 23.4 Psal. 73.26 Psal. 91.15 Esay 43.2 2. To qualifie them if they doe come GOD will qualifie Afflictions to his children He will correct them 1. In great wisedome which is seene in two things 1. In the meetnesse of correction Heb. 12.9 10. Furthermore wee had fathers of our flesh which corrected us and wee gave them reverence shall wee not much rather be in subiection to the father of spirits and live For they verily for a few daies chastened us after their owne pleasure but hee for our profit that wee might be partakers of his holinesse Earthly Parents oft correct
their children after their owne pleasure to satisfie their will but GOD our heavenly Father in great wisdome considereth with what correction and when to chastize his so as may be most for their profit yea the best profit to repaire his image of holinesse in them 2. In the just measure and continuance thereof Ier. 46.28 30.11 Esay 27.7 8. 1 Cor. 10.13 they shall not be tempted above their strength GOD will not lay more on man then is meet that he should enter into iudgemēt with God Iob 34.23 Affliction is momentany CHRIST comforts his Disciples with the shortnesse of afflictions Ioh. 16.16 GOD will not keepe his anger for ever Ier. 3.12 Ezek. 16.42 Micah 7.18 nor cast off for ever Lam. 3.31 David had great experience of this as he often professeth Psal. 30.5 Psal. 103.9 The rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous Psalme 125.3 2. In love and tendernesse GOD compareth himselfe to a Father Psal. 103.13 14. to a Mother Esay 49.15 16. I will not execute the fiercenesse of mine anger for I am GOD and not man Hesea 11.9 and in the 8. verse he saith His heart is turned within him his repentings are kindled together GOD there imitates parents saith Theodoret when any misery is upon a child their bowels yearne more There is an excellent expression in Iudg. 10.16 His soule was grieved for the misery of Israel He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men Lam. 3.33 Judgement is called his Strange worke Esay 28.21 which wee inforce him unto Atque dolet quoties cogitur esse ferox In all their afflictions hee is afflicted Esay 63.9 Affliction cannot separate from his love Rom. 8.35 39. He preserveth their teares as pretious liquor in his bottle Psal. 56.8 See Psal. 116.15 Psal. 31.7 Psal. 38.9 Psal. 145.8 9. 3. For good GOD afflicts his children for their good There are many benefits which GOD promiseth and his Spirit worketh by afflictions 1. Generall they are blessed whom the LORD correcteth Behold happy is the man whom GOD correcteth therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty Iob 5.17 the like promise we have Iam. 1.12 Psal. 94.12 Whom the LORD loveth hee correcteth even as a father the sonne in whom hee delighteth Pro. 3.12 Quem unicè diligit whom he cockers above the rest of his children so the Hebrew word signifieth That Sonne in whom hee is well pleased saith Mercerus quem approbat whom he makes his white boy so Theophylact interprets Heb. 12.6 The Originall there 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 chastize is derived from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a sonne or childe Our light affliction which is but for a moment worketh for us a farre more exceeding and eternall waight of glory Wee shall have for Affliction Glory For light affliction Heavie Massie Substantiall Glory a waight of Glory For Momentany affliction eternall Glory He addeth also degrees of comparison yea goeth beyond all degrees calling it More excellent farre more excellent an exceeding excessive eternall weight of Glory See Rom. 8.18 Acts 14.22 2 Tim. 2.12 1 Cor. 11.32 Matth. 5.10 11. Luke 6.22 1 Pet. 3.14 4.14 Iam. 5.11 Psal. 119.71 Lament 3.27 2. Speciall 1. Afflictions are trialls the godly by them have experience of their frailties and graces and come to know GOD and themselves 2 Chron. 33.13 This is oft set out by this comparison of gold and silver tried by the fire Zach. 13.9 Prov. 17.3 Psal. 66.10 1 Pet. 4.12 Iames calls afflictions temptations because they serve to try what is in us GOD led the Israelites forty yeares in the wildernesse To prove them and to know what was in their heart that is that they might know saith Iunius The skill of a Pilot is unknowne but in a tempest the valour of a Captaine is unseene but in a battell and the worth of a Christian is untried but in triall and temptation 2. They shall purge sinne they are soveraigne medicines to kill spirituall diseases GODS children shall come out of the fornace of affliction much more refined and purified as Iob did and lose nothing but their drosse By this the iniquity of Jacob shall be purged and this is all the fruite to take away his sinne Esay 27.9 I will purely purge away thy drosse and take away all thy tinne Esay 1.25 Many shall be purified made white and tried Dan. 12.10 Wee know that all things worke together for good to them that love GOD to them who are the called according to his purpose Rom. 8.28 Wee that is not only I and you but all the faithfull know have great proofe of it by daily experience that all afflictions for of them he specially speaketh how many or how great soever they be shall procure and further our chiefest good the welfare and happinesse of our soules See Iohn 15.2 Prov. 20.30 Psal 119.67 Esay 4.4 Iob 33.16 17. 36.8 9 10 15. Hosea 2.6 7. 3. They quicken graces they make us partakers of GODS holinesse and bring forth the quiet fruit of righteousnesse Heb. 12.10 11. The inward man is renewed by them 2 Cor. 4.16 1. Faith is exercised in beleeving most assuredly the promises that GOD hath made of our deliverance that the triall of your faith being much more pretious then of gold that perisheth though it be tryed with fire might be found unto praise and glory at the appearing of JESUS CHRIST CHRIST Faith is as much advanced by afflictions as gold by fire The 11. Chapter to the Hebrewes proveth this Afflictions saith one cause us to seeke out GODS promise the promise to seeke faith faith to seeke prayer and prayer to find GOD. 2. Hope in assuring her selfe of the reward promised to them that suffer patiently Tribulatiō worketh patience patience experience and experience hope Rom. 5.3 4. 3. Patience is exercised in bearing quietly Tribulation worketh patience as was said Account it all joy when yee fall into divers temptations knowing this that the triall of your faith worketh patience Iam. 1.2 3. 3. To helpe us to beare them and in due time to remove them GOD promiseth to helpe us to beare afflictions and in due time to remove them Though he fall hee shall not be utterly cast downe for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand Psal. 37.24 As their afflictions abound so shall their consolations also 2 Cor. 1.5 They shall have the Comforter himselfe Ioh. 14.16 Ioh. 15.26 16.7 GOD often promiseth to his people to be a sure and speedy helpe in all troubles David had great experience thereof The booke of Psalmes is full of those speeches GOD is my Rocke my Tower my Refuge my Shield and Buckler my Health and Strength Psal. 18.2 Psal. 31.3 Psal. 71.3 Psal. 94.22 73.25 26. All which speeches shew that what helpe any man in any danger may finde in any earthly meanes whatsoever GOD is the same and
when hee seeth that their power is gone and there is none shut up or left Deut. 32.36 2 King 14 26. Going into captivity was a signe of the Israelites returning out of Captivity Faith will teach us to say he hath chastized me according as he hath threatned therfore he wil comfort me according as he hath promised Ier. 32.42 It will extract abundance of comfort in the most desperate distresses from those places 2 Chron. 20.12 Prov. 18.10 Esay 33.9 10. For the nature of it is to beleeve GOD upon his bare word and that against sense in things invisible and against reason in things incredible Heb. 11.1 David Psal. 56.10 though sorely afflicted yet rejoyceth in GOD because of his naked promise the woman of Canaan could picke comfort out of the reproachfull name of dog Hath not GOD promised and assured me not to faile nor forsake me but to uphold me in affliction and bring me through it and comfort me by it and glorifie me after it therefore I should with Abraham hope against hope and apprehend the certaine accomplishment of these promises by faith when sense and carnall reason see nothing but the contrary CHAP. III. Temporall Promises in regard of evill things Speciall Sicknesse Poverty Famine Warre Captivity Witchcraft or possession of the Divell Oppression Promises in regard of Sicknesse 1. TO prevent Sicknesse and keepe it away If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy GOD and wilt doe that which is right in his sight and wilt give eare to his Commandements and keepe all his statutes I will put none of these diseases upon thee which I have brought upon the Aegyptians for I am the LORD that healeth thee Exod. 15.26 Deut. 7.15 GOD will preserve his children from the pestilence Psal. 91.3 6 7 10. He will certainly deliver them from the hurt of it so as it shall not hinder the good or salvation of any in the godly mans house 2. If sicknesse be amongst us to helpe in it and remove it from us The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing thou wilt make all his bed in his sicknesse Psal. 41.3 And the LORD will take away from thee all sicknesse Deut. 7.15 And I will take sicknesse away from the midst of thee Exod. 23.25 In all our bodily infirmities and sore diseases we should remember some of these promises and lay hold on them by faith that wee faint not nor murmure Promises in regard of Poverty There is a generall promise made to all that feare GOD 1 Tim. 4.8 Psal. 34.9 10. Heb. 13.5 And many other speciall promises likewise which may comfort and strengthen the godly against murmuring and impatiency in hard times I will abundantly blesse her provision I will satisfie her poore with bread Psal. 132.15 Deut. 8.16 No rich man under Heaven can be so assured that hee and his shall be preserved from beggery as every poore Christian may be For though the LORD in infinite bounty doe bestow those blessings on wicked men in great abundance yet they belong to them onely ex largitate out of a generall providence but to the faithfull ex promisso out of GODS promise David beholding how much it vexed GODS children to see the wicked prosper in this world and the godly distressed of purpose made the 37. Psalme to heartenâ— the godly against this sore tentation which in all ages much troubled GODS people and there hee sheweth that the state of the godly is far better even in this life then that of the wicked 3 4 5 11 16. verses To the same purpose was made the 73. Psalme See Psal. 16.5 6. Psal. 23. Psal. 10.14 Psal. 109.31 He raiseth up the poore out of the dust and lifteth the needie out of the dunghill Psal. 103.7 I have beene young saith David in that 37. Psalme 25. verse and now am old yet have I not seene the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread Davids saying may be taken 1. as his owne observation in his time for he saith not the righteous is never forsaken but that he never saw it and it is a rare thing 2. which Exposition Master Perkins approves the righteous man is never forsaken and his seed too GOD may make triall of godly Parents by want but their godly children shall surely be blessed 3. hee saith hee never saw the righteous and his seed forsaken begging bread that is no not forsaken when they were begging their bread Whensoever wee are pinched with any earthly necessity we should runne to one of these gracious promises for if wee rightly beleeve them they will make us cast our care on GOD that careth for us and moderate our immeasurable carking after the things of this world moving us patiently to waite for the accomplishment of our desires or contentedly to want what GOD denieth Phil. 4.5 1 Pet. 5.7 Psal. 55.22 Psal. 37.4 5. Deut. 8.3 Promises for succour in Famine Particular promises for helpe in Famine and deliverance from it In Famine he shall redeeme thee from death Iob 5.20 The LORD will not suffer the soule of the righteous to famish Prov. 10.3 Behold the eye of the LORD is upon them that feare him upon them that hope in his mercy to keepe them alive in famine Psal. 33.19 In the daies of famine they shall be satisfied Psal. 37.19 If I shut up Heaven saith the LORD thâ—t there be no raine or if I command the Locusts to devoure the land if my people shall humble themselves and pray and seeke my face and turne from their wicked waies then will I heare from heaven and will forgive their sinne and heale their land 2 Chron. 7.13 14. In that day I will heare saith the LORD I will heare the Heavens and they shall heare the Earth and the earth shall heare the corne and the wine and the oyle and they shall heare Iezreel Hosea 2.21 22. When the poore and needy seeke water and there is none and their tongue faileth for thirst I the LORD will heare them I the GOD of Israel will not forsake them I will open rivers in high places and fountaines in the midst of the valleys I will make the wildernesse a poole of water and the drie land springs of water See Ioel 2.18 19. Zach. 8.11 12. 10.1 Mal. 3.10 GODS children in time of scarcity should live by faith Mat. 4.4 feede on the promise and depend on GODS allowance when our owne provision failes us then not to distrust the provision of GOD is a noble tryall of faith Promises to preserve from Warre and deliver from the Sword The LORD will preserve his children from Warre Thou shalt not see a fierce people Esay 33.19 The enemies being astonished shall be a prey to the Church ver 23. GOD will deliver them from the Sword as he saith Ier. 39.17 18. I will deliver thee in that day and thou shalt not be given into the
hand of the men of whom thou art afraid For I will surely deliver thee and thou shalt not fall by the sword but thy life shall be for a prey unto thee because thou hast put thy trust in me saith the LORD In Warre he shall redeeme thee from the power of the sword Iob 5.20 Promises to comfort in and deliver out of Captivity Although I have cast them farre off among the heathen and although I have scattered them among the countries yet will I be to them a little Sanctuary in the countries where they shall come Ezek. 11.16 See ver 17. I will give you a reviving there Ezra 9.8 And make you to be pittied of those that shall carry you captive Psal. 106.46 Then the LORD thy GOD will turne thy captivity and have compassion upon thee and will returne and gather thee from all the nations whither the LORD thy GOD hath scattered thee If any of thine be driven out unto the utmost parts of Heaven from thence will the LORD thy GOD gather thee and from thence will hee fetch thee c. Deut. 30.3 4 5. Nehemiah sueth out this promise Nehem. 1.9 There was a promise made unto Israel to restore them out of the great captivity of Babylon and this seemed to them as incredible as for men to be raised out of their graves after so many yeares consumption therefore they said Our bones are dried and our hope is lost we are cut off for our parts we have no more reason to beleeve any promise or to rest upon any expectations of deliverance then dead bones have to revive againe Therefore the LORD acquainteth them with his power together with his promises O my people yee shall know that I am the LORD that is that my waies and thoughts are infinitely above your shallow apprehension when I shall have brought you out of your graves Ezek. 37.11 13 14. See Psal. 14.7 and 53.6 Ier. 30.6.18 A promise against Witchcraft or possession of the Divell Surely there is no inchantment against Iacob neither is there any divination against Israel Num. 23.23 This is promised conditionally so farre as it is good for GODS people they shall be freed from it Promises against Oppression It is one of the LORDS most royall titles to be the Father of the Fatherlesse and a Iudge of the widdowes Psal. 68.5 To be a Refuge for the oppressed Psal. 9.9 10 14. Esay 25.4 For the oppression of the poore for the sighing of the needy now will I arise saith the LORD I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him Psal. 12.5 He executeth iudgement for the oppressed preserveth the strangers relieveth the fatherlesse and widdow Psal. 146.7 9. In thee the fatherlesse findeth mercy Hosea 14.3 CHAP. IIII. Temporall promises in regard of good things 1. In Generall to supply any thing needfull GOD hath promised to provide things needfull for the godly All earthly blessings are intailed to godlinesse by that gracious promise 1 Tim. 4.8 Godlinesse hath the promise of the life that now is and that which is to come It is said Nothing shall be wanting Psal. 34.9 All things shall be ministred Matth. 6.33 GOD shall fulfill all your necessity Philip 4.19 As a tender Father desiring the welfare of his beloved child bids him to be a good and obedient child and he shall not want any thing so the LORD bids us as good children hearken to his voice and be ruled by him and tels us we shall not want any thing that is good Psal. 34.8 9 10. 84 11. This is that which is so oft repeated That it may goe well with thee in the land which the LORD thy GOD giveth thee Deut. 5.16 33. 6.3 18. 12.25 28. This is meant in those Scriptures which set out the goodnesse of the LORD Psal. 31.19 Psal. 145.9 and many other places where GODS goodnesse loving kindnesse and mercy and that specially in things belonging to this naturall life are commended unto us In those generall promises wherein GOD saith He will dwell with his and not forsake them that he will love and blesse his people that he will be their GOD will reioyce over them to doe them good will compasse them with favour as with a shield that he will set peace in their borders and prosper them in all they goe about that he will keepe his Covenant with them For outward riches are a part of his Covenant All things are yours we are heires of all the world In the Covenant of grace GOD promiseth not onely to write his law in our hearts and to forgive our sinne but also to conferre Temporall blessings as they shall be serviceable to us in our journey towards Heaven Ier. 31.10 11 12 14. Ezek. 34.25 26 27. 36.29 30. Hosea 2.20 21 22. He hath given us his Sonne the Fountaine of all good things what can he denie us then that may be for our good and comfort The promise of CHRIST before his incarnation was to the Jewes a seale of all temporall things promised Our Saviour saith Seeke yee first the Kingdome of GOD and his Righteousnesse and all these things shall be added unto you First in time before all other things and in degree above all other things and all these needfull things shall be cast in As when a man buyeth spice fruit or any such commodity paper and packthred is given into the bargaine It is the property of true saving faith not onely to lay hold on the mercy of GOD for the pardon of sinne and life everlasting in CHRIST but on his promises also for Temporall blessings that concerne this life As wee looke to be saved by our faith after death so we must live 〈◊〉 faith in this world if we relie upon his mercy for our soules we must depend upon his providence for our bodies How doth he trust in GOD for a Kingdome that will not trust him for a crust of bread Faith receiveth earthly blessings not as the fruit of our labour or desert but as the gifts of GODS bounty yea as gifts of the gracious Covenant proceeding from the free love of GOD. Temporall promises in regard of good things Speciall For 1. Name 1. Honour 2. A good name 2. Body 1. Long life 2. Health 3. Safetie 4. Peace 5. Sleepe 6. Foode raiment 3. Estate 1. Wealth 2. Good successe and prosperity 1. To their persons 2. To their purposes 4. Calling Promises to diligence in it 1. Abundance and plenty 2. Protection 3. Promotion 4. Good successe 5. It builds the house 6 It makes sleep comfortable GOD hath promised not only to give these outward things but to blesse them to his children CHAP. V. 2. Temporall Promises in regard of good things 1. Speciall Promises to GODS children in respect of their Name 1. Honour GOD saith Hee will honour those that honour him 1 Sam. 2.30 And Wisedome will honour those that honour her Pro. 4.7 8 9.
So it is oft said Riches and honour are with her Pro. 3.16 and verse 35. The wise shall inherit glory So Chap. 13.18 Hee that regardeth reproofe shall be honoured This is meant by all those speeches where it is said that hearkning to instruction will adorne and bring into estimation as costly ornaments of bracelets jewels and the like will doe so it is Pro. 1.9 They shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head and chaines about thy neck See Chap. 3.22 4.9 The gracious woman receiveth honour Pro. 11.16 Righteousnesse exalteth a naâ—ion Prov. 14.34 GOD doth highly esteeme of the godly himselfe Since thou wast precious in my sight thou hast beene honourable and I have loved thee Esay 43.4 and he will make the wicked to honour them The evill bow before the good and the wicked at the gates of the righteous Pro. 14.19 Behold I will make them of the Synagogue of Satan to come and worship before thy feet and to know that I have loved thee Rev. 3.9 2. Good name A good name is better then precious ointment Eccles. 7.1 and rather to be chosen then great riches Pro. 22.1 GOD hath made many promises concerning this The memory of the Iust is blessed Pro. 10.7 I will make you a name and praise among all the people of the earth saith the LORD Zeph. 3.20 I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off Esay 56.5 The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance Psal. 112.6 Promises to GODS children in respect of the Body 1. Long life The LORD that hee may stirre up his people to obedience doth make many promises of long life and many daies as in the fift Commandement which the Apostle saith is the first Commandement with Promise Ephes. 6.2 every child is there commanded to Honour his Father and Mother upon this promise that his daies may be long in the land So Deut. 5.33 Deut. 25.15 30.20 In the Proverbes this is very oft repeated Chap. 3.1 2. My sonne forget not my law but let thine heart keepe my commandements for length of daies and long life and peace shall they add to thee And 16. and 18. verses of the same Chapter and Chap. 4. from the 5. verse to 14. Chap. 8.35 Chap. 9.11 Chap. 10.25 27. Chap. 11.19 30. 14.30 This GOD promised to Salomon 1 King 3.14 and the like is spoken more generally that the Prince that hateth covetousnesse shall prolong his daies Prov. 28.16 and also Deut. 17.19 20. Long life is promised to the observers of the whole law Deut. 6.2 and other particular branches of it Psalm 34.12 13 14. In all the perills of this life by sickenesse warre famine theeves or any wicked enemy whatsoever we may call to minde some of these promises and so rest quiet thereupon that none of these nor any thing else shall shorten our daies more then shall turne to our good 2. Health GOD hath promised bodily health and strength unto his people that they may enjoy and make use of these earthly comforts Salomon Pro. 3.7 exhorting us to feare the LORD and depart from evill adds this as a promise verse 8. It shall be health to thy navill and marrow to thy bones that is soundnesse of health to thy whole body and Chap. 4.22 He saith That the true receiving of instructions is life to those that finde them and health to all their flesh Bodily strength is often promised The LORD will give strength unto his people Psal. 29.11 See Psal. 103.5 3. Safety Then shalt thou walke in thy way safely and thy foot shall not stumble Pro. 3.23 See verse 26. 1 Sam. 2.9 The Name of the LORD is a strong tower the righteous runneth unto it and is safe Pro. 18.10 He that walketh uprightly walketh surely Pro. 10.9 Who so hearkeneth unto mee shall dwell safely and shall be quiet from feare of evill Prov. 1.33 Thou shalt be secure because there is hope yea thou shalt digge about thee and thou shalt take thy rest in safety Job 11.18 See Psal. 91.1 3 4 5 9 10. 1 Pet. 3.13 14. When a man is in Covenant with GOD he is in league with the creatures and therefore they shall never doe him hurt Gen. 9.2 Hos. 2.18 Thou shalt be in league with the stones of the field and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with thee Job 5.23 4. Peace Peace in regard of outward troubles is a speciall blessing of GOD and hath beene in all ages promised by GOD to his Church 1 Chron. 22.9 And I will give peace in the land and yee shall lye downe and none shall make you afraid Levit. 26.6 The LORD will blesse his people with peace Psal. 29.11 The meeke shall delight themselves in abundance of peace Psal. 37.11 He maketh peace in thy borders Psal. 147.14 LORD thou wilt ordaine peace for us Esay 26.12 Thou shalt know that thy Tabernacle shall be in peace Job 5.29 See Jam. 3.18 Esay 48.18 When a mans waies please the LORD hee will make his enemies at peace with him Prov. 16.6 5. Sleepe Promises for quiet rest and safety in the night When thou liest downe thou shalt not be afraid yea thou shalt lie downe and thy sleepe shall be sweet Pro. 3.24 Also thou shalt lie downe and none shall make thee afraid Job 11.19 Zeph. 3.13 Hee giveth his beloved sleepe Psal. 127.2 6. Food and raiment GOD hath promised to give his children food unto content Yee shall eate in plenty and be satisfied and praise the Name of the LORD Joel 2.26 Trust in the LORD and doe good so shalt thou dwell in the land and verily thou shalt be fed Psal. 37.3 He giveth meate unto them that feare him Psal. 111.5 He will satisfie the poore with bread Psal. 102.15 He loveth the stranger in giving him food and raiment Deut. 10.18 To such as want meate drinke or apparell CHRIST saith Matth. 6.25 Is not the life more then meate and the body then raiment It is an argument as we say à maiori aâ—minus from the greater to the lesser The LORD which gave the life it selfe will not suffer us to want those things that appertaine to the sustaining of the same and ver 32. Your heavenly Father saith hee knoweth that yee have neede of these things that is foode and raiment A man may know our wants and yet say as it is Iames 2.16 another may desire to supply our wants and yet not know them but GOD 1. Knowes our wants 2. Will supply them for hee is a Father 3. Can supply them for he is a heavenly Father Promises to GODS children for their outward Estate 1. Wealth GOD hath promised his people such a portion of earthly goods as shall be needfull for their more comfortable living in this world Riches and honour are with mee yea durable riches and righteousnesse My fruit is better then gold yea then fine gold and my revenue then choice silver
Pro. 8.18 19. The blessing of the LORD maketh rich and hee addeth no sorrow with it Pro. 10.22 The LORD often promiseth plenty that the land shall yeeld her fruit that hee will give them raine in due season that there should be none barren but he would encrease them in all their substance both ground and cattell that they should eate old store that threshing should reach unto vintage Ezek. 36.30 Ioel 2.23 24 25. Levit. 26.4 5 10. 25.19 See Deut. 28. from 2. to 15. and Chap. 7. from 12. to 17. Psal. 23. Psal. 128. Pro. 3.9 10 16 17 18. and Chap. 8.21 1 Chron. 29.12 Those that waite upon the LORD shall inherit the earth Psal. 37.9 the like is in the 11 22 29 34. verses and Mat. 5.5 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his childrens children and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the Iust Pro. 13.22 Wealth and riches shall be in his house Psal. 112.3 In the house of the righteous is much treasure Pro. 15.6 Thou shalt lay up gold as dust and the gold of Ophir as the stones of the brookes thou shalt have plenty of silver Job 22.24 25. That was a speciall promise made to the people of Israel at their returne They shall flow together to the goodnesse of the Lord for wheate and for wine and for oyle and for the young of the flocke and for the heard c. Jer. 31.12 I will open unto you the windowes of heaven and powre you out a blessing that there shall not be roome to receive it Malac 3.10 2. Good successe and prosperity GOD hath promised prosperity to his children Both to their persons and their purposes They shall prosper that love thee Psal. 122.6 Prosperity shall be within thy palaces ver 7. Good understanding giveth favour Pro. 13.15 Doe according to all the law which Moses my servant commanded thee that thou maist prosper whithersoever thou goest Josh. 1.7 Then shalt thou make they way prosperous and then thou shalt have good successe ver 8. They shall spend their daies in prosperity and their yeares in pleasures Job 36.11 And all nations shall call you blessed for yee shall be a delight some land Malac. 3.12 The LORD taketh pleasure in the prosperity of his servants Psal. 35.27 Hee that feareth the LORD is and shall be blessed every way blessed Psal. 128.1 2.3 GOD will also give good successe to their purposes and indeavours Whatsoever hee doth shall prosper Psal. 1.3 this was verified in Ioseph Gen. 39.3 23. Thou shalt also decree a thing and it shall be established unto thee and the light shall shine upon thy waies Job 22.28 Commit thy way unto the LORD trust also in him and hee shall bring it to passe Psal. 37.5 Promises to GODS children in respect of their Calling Diligence in a calling hath many a sweet promise in the Word of GOD. 1. Abundance and plenty The hand of the diligent maketh rich Pro. 10.4 The soule of the diligent shall be made fat Pro. 13.4 He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread Pro. 28.19 at least sufficiency followes it He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread Pro. 12.11 See 27. verse That which is gotten by honest labour is preserved and multiplied Prov. 13.11 2. Protection GOD hath promised to protect those that keepe themselves within the limits of their calling Hee shall give his Angels charge over thee to keepe thee in all thy waies Psal. 91.11 that is so long as thou keepest thy selfe within the waies of thy calling so long shall my Angels preserve thee 3. Promotion it exalteth to honour and authority The hanâ— of the diligent shall beare rule Pro. 12.24 Seest thou a man diligent in his businesse Hee shall stanâ— before Kings hee shall not stanâ— before meane men Prov. 22.29 4. Good successe The recompence of a mans hands shall be rendred unto him Pro. 12.14 They shall build houses and inhabit them they shall plant vineyards and eatâ— the fruit of them They shall not labour in vaine nor bring forth foâ— trouble Esay 65.21 23. There yee shall eate before the LORD your GOD and yee shall reioyce in all that you put your hand unto Yee and your housholds wherein the LORD thy GOD hath blessed thee Deut. 12.7 Deut. 28.8 12. 5. It buildeth the house Pro 24.27 6. It makes sleepe comfortable Eccles. 5.12 The sleepe of a labouring man is sweet and pleasant whether hee eate little or much if little his labour breeds him rest if much his body being strong and hardned by labour causeth easie digestion and uninterrupted sleepe CHAP. VI. GOD hath promised not onely to give these outward things but to blesse them to his children HE will make that prosperous unto the Righteous which they possesse be it little or much Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body and the fruit of thy ground and the fruit of thy cattell the increase of thy kine and the flockes of thy sheepe Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store Deut. 28.4 5. Deut. 7.13 14. The LORD also will blesse thy fruit of thy wombe and the fruit of thy land thy corne and thy wine and thine oyle the increase of thy kine the flockes of thy sheepe there shall be neither male or female barreâ— among them or among your cattell Hee shall not onely enjoy the fruit of his labours but also be blessed in his fruit Psal. 128.1 2. The godly are in a better state for these outward things then the wicked in two respects 1. They have a spirituall right to them which the wicked have not they have these outward things onely by a generall providence during GODS pleasure but the faithfull have them as rewards of their righteousnesse as testimonies of GODS love and care of them 2. They enjoy them as they are a little gives them more content then plenty others Better is a little righteousnesse then great revenues without right Prov. 16.8 more comfortable in respect of inward peace the present use of this life and continuance Better is a little with the feare of the LORD then great treasure and trouble therewith Prov. 15.16 17. The blessing of the LORD maketh rich and hee addeth no sorrow with it Prov. 10.22 GOD giveth his beloved sleepe Psal. 127.2 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soule Pro. 13.25 See Esay 65.13 Eccles. 5.19 3.12 13. Prov. 17.1 THE THIRD BOOK CHAP. 1. 2. SPIRITVALL PROMISES 1. In regard of evill from Temptations 1. Of Satan in generall 2. To uncleannesse Comforts against the temptations of Satan THE Faithfull have a promise to preserve them from such temptations as are incident to their lawfull callings and which they cannot avoid unlesse they would forsake their calling Psal. 91.11 12. In all thy waies seeme they never so dangerous and full of temptation they shall beare thee up The man whose heart is upright shall finde
for it may comfort themselves with such precious places as these 1 Ioh. 2.1 Luke 17.4 1 Sam. 12.20 22. 1 Iohn 1.9 From this last place a reverend Divine collects this comfort If wee see our unworthinesse and with broken hearts acknowledge it GOD is faithfull and iust to forgive it be it never so great Thou hast played the harlot with many lovers yet returne againe to mee saith the LORD Ier. 3.1 3. The LORD will restore them and raise them up againe by repentance The LORD will heale thy backesliding if thou take unto thee words to confesse thy falling away Hosea 14.2 3 4. There is healing in the wings of the Sonne of righteousnesse and you shall grow up as the calves of the stall Mal. 4.2 The LORD upholdeth all that fall and raiseth up all those that are bowed downe Psal. 145.14 Behold I will bring it health and cure and I will cure them and will reveale unto them the abundance of peace and truth Ier. 32.6 Hee speakes Ezek. 34.16 of the time of the Gospell when CHRIST should bee the Shepheard and shewes the Covenant that he will make with those that are his if any thing be lost saith he if a Sheepe lose it selfe this is my Covenant I will finde it If it be driven away by any violence of temptation I will bring it backe againe If there be a breach made into their hearts by any occasion through sinne and lust I will heale them and binde them up GODS Covenant is to make us faithfull in his Covenant the actions of faith and repentance are ours but the power of doing them GODS 4. Spirituall Lamenesse Comforts against Spirituall Lamenesse or weaknesses of graces Then shall the lame man leape as an Hart Esay 35.6 And I will put my spirit within you and cause you to walke in my statutes and yee shall keepe my iudgements and doe them Ezek. 36.27 They shall runne and not be wearie they shall walke and not be saint Esay 40.31 See ver 29. The LORD will be the hope of his people and the strength of the children of Israel Joel 3 16. In our Spirituall infancie we may comfort our selves by those cordiâ—ll refreshing promises I will give unto him that is a thirst of the fountaine of the water of life freely Rev. 21.6 A bruised reede shall he not breake and the smoaking flaxe shall he not quench Esay 42.3 though grace be in us but like the heate in the weeke of the candle when the light is out yet GOD hath taken order that it shall not be extinguished Hee shall feede his flocke like a shepheard he shall gather the lambes with his arme and carry them in his bosome and shall gently leade those that are with young Esay 40.11 Hee will use all compassion with a tender respect of our weakenesse In love in care in pittie he will redeeme us and carry us as in the daies of old Esay 63.9 As he hath borne us from the wombe so will he be the same still unto old age even unto the gray haires hee will carry us in the armes of his compassion hee hath made us hee will beare even hee will carry and deliver us Esay 46.3 4. Since thou art a branch of his planting he may glorifie himselfe in thee so as thy little one may be as a thousand and thy small one as a strong nation GOD can performe it in his due time Esay 60.21 22. CHRIST graciously receiveth and tenderly cherisheth weake Christians Zach. 13.7 Matth. 18.5 Hee giveth charge against the contempt of them verse 10. and will not have the day of small things despised Zach. 4.10 The obedience oâ— the faithfull is weake and imperfect but pleasing and acceptable unto GOD. The Psalmist saith Psal. 147.11 149.4 The LORD taketh pleasure in his people the prayers of the upright are his delight GOD will reckon of so much good done by us as wee desired and endeavoured to doe the preparations of our hearts are reckoned with GOD as great things Esay 55.1 This is a great comfort to GODS children that doe their best indeavour to keepe all his Commandements for though they faile in that obedience which they ought to performe yet GOD promiseth to shew mercy to them Exod. 26.6 so long as their heart is true he will beare with their infirmities Wee are not under the law saith the Apostle but under grace Rom. 6.14 We are delivered from the rigour of the Law GOD hath received us to the benefit of that Covenant in which perfection is onely required in CHRIST uprightnesse in us GOD accepts of the will for the deed 2 Cor. 8.12 and the will above the deed as appeareth by the 10. verse Who hath not onely begunne to doe but also to be forward a yeare agoe making it a greater grace to be willing and desirous to doe well then it is to doe a good thing 5. Doubts and Feares of losing the love of GOD. Comforts against doubts and feares of loosing the love of GOD. In the affliction of thy minde and losse of the feeling of GODS favour acquaint thy selfe with those promises Iohn 13.1 Having loved his owne which were in the world he loved them unto the end and without end The gifts and calling of GOD are without repentance that is such gifts as accompany an effectuall calling are such as GOD never repenteth of or taketh away I will not forsake my people 1 King 6.13 Heb. 13.5 Behold GOD will not cast away a perfect man Iob 8.20 The love of GOD unto his childe in respect of tendernesse is infinitely dearer then that of a most loving mother to her little one Esay 49.15 stronger then the stony mountaines and rockes of flint Esay 54.10 as constant as the waters of Noah ver 9. as the ordinances of Heaven Ier. 33.20 and ver 25. nay as sure as GOD himselfe Psal. 89.33 34 35. 6. Forgetfullnesse A promise against forgetfullnesse But the Comforter which is the HOLY GHOST whom the Father will send in my name he shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said unto you Iohn 14.26 7. Vncheerefullnesse Comforts against dullnesse and uncheerefullnesse The wildernesse and solitary place shall be glad for them and the desart shall reioyce and blossome as the rose it shall blossome abundantly and reioyce even with ioy and singing Esay 35.1 2. Then shall yee sucke yee shall be borne upon her sides and be dandled upon her knees As one whom his mother comforteth so will I comfort you and yee shall be comforted in Ierusalem And when yee see this your heart shall reioyce and your bones shall flourish like an herbe Jer. 66.12 13 14. Thou shalt reioyce in the LORD Esay 41.16 Thou shalt have thy delight in the Almighty Iob 22.26 The godly have a spring of joy within them Iohn 4.14 In thy name shall they reioyce all the day
Psal. 91.14 The LORD compareth himselfe to an Eagle which safely carrieth her young Deut. 1.31 32.11 and to a carefull Shepheard Ezek. 34.12 Psal. 23.1 2 3. Iohn 16.12 Esay 30.21 The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous Psal. 34.15 a mans eye is upon one that hee loves ubi amor ibi oculus The LORD hath a care of them he loves defends and protects them He saith Psal. 32.8 I will guide thee with mine eye Hee will guide his children by his speciall providence in all their waies Psal. 121.8 Esay 46 4. He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous but with Kings are they on the throne yea hee doth establish them for ever and they are exalted Job 36.7 Hee keepeth all his bones not one of them is broken Psal. 34.20 There shall not a haire of your head perish Luke 21 18. Matth. 10.30 Acts 27.34 Hee that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye Zach. 2.8 To expresse the tendernesse of his love he named the tenderest part of the body saith Salvian that he might shew that hee is troubled with the least contamelie offered to his Saints as we are with the least hurt of our eye Nay hee saith not hee that toucheth you toucheth his eye but the apple of his eye the tenderest piece of the tenderest part the Chrystall humour as the Philosophers call it Ishon in Hebrew of Ish pupilla in Latine of pupa because therein appeareth the resemblance of a little man or because as a man is to be prized above all other creatures so GOD esteemeth his people above all the world David found by his owne experience Psal. 17.8 Psal. 63.7 and 41.12 that GOD preserved him as the apple of his eye and so may all Christians What was said to Iacob Gen. 28.15 and to Ioshua by Moses Deut. 31.8 and by GOD himselfe Iosh. 1.5 Paul applieth generally to all Christians Heb. 13.5 I will never leave thee nor forsake thee Hee guides them in all their waies Hee that hath mercy on them saith the Prophet shall leade them even by the springs of water shall hee guide them Esay 49.16 2. Christians have the guard of Angels He shall give his Angels charge ovâ—r thee to keepe thee in all thy waies they shall beare thee up in their hands least thou dash thy foot against a stone Psal. 91.11 12. The Angels keepe us and that universally in all our waies they keepe us and that very charily and tenderly they beare us in their hands and they keepe us very safely and surely so that we dash not our feete against a stone The Angell of the LORD encampeth about them that feare him and delivereth them Psal. 34.7 CHAP. VII 2. CHRIST himselfe and many blessings by him are promised to the Godly 1. Redemption 2. Vocation 3. Iustification which hath two parts 1. Not imputing sin 2 Imputing righteousnes 4. Reconciliation 5. Adoption 1. CHRIST is promised to the godly THe first promise made to man and the foundation of all other was thâ—t Gen. 3.15 It shall bruise thy head It or He that is CHRIST shall bruise thy head that is breake the power and dominion of Satan The first Promise was made concerning CHRIST because GOD intended to make good every promise in CHRIST In all ages the LORD renewed this promise of sending CHRIST the promised seed as immediately after the floud Noah by prophesie blessing his two sonnes said GOD shall enlarge Iaphet and hee shall dwell in the tents of Shem Gen. 9.27 He meaneth that we the Gentiles should be called to be one body with the Jewes in CHRIST The same was afterwards oft renewed to Abraham In thy Seed that is CHRIST thou thy selfe and all the nations of the earth that is the faithfull in all nations shall be blessed Gen. 12.3 Gen. 13.14 15.4 18. Gen. 17.4 22. The like was after promised to Isaac Gen. 26.4 and Iacob Gen. 28.14 and Gen. 49.10 it is said The Scepter shall not depart from Iuda untill Shiloh come that is the Messias come for Shiloh signifieth the tunicle or skinne that lappeth the Infant in the Mothers wombe called by Physitians the secundine because it grieves the woman that is with child the second time as it were a second birth in French arriere fais in English the after-birth or after-burden and by a kind of figure is put for the Sonne of GOD in the wombe of the Virgin made man to note him to be of the flesh of Mary and his birth to be like the birth of other children sinne onely excepted There shall come a Starre out of Jacob and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel Numb 24.17 In all succeeding ages Moses and all the Prophets in their times foretold of CHRIST Acts 3.24 10.43 The LORD thy GOD will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee of thy brethren like unto mee unto him shall yee hearken Deut. 18.15 like unto mee both in the participation of nature and office saith Iunius a true man and a true Mediator CHRIST is there meant Acts 3.22 7.37 That evangelicall Prophet Esay spake of him then as already come For unto us a childe is borne unto us a Sonne is given and the Governement shall be upon his shoulder and his name shall be called Wonderfull Counsellor the mighty GOD the everlasting Father the Prince of Peace Esay 9.6 See Esay 11.1.32.1 2. 53.2 3 4. Ezek 37.24 34.24 Ier. 33.15 16. Ier. 23.5 6. Micah 5.2 Zach. 3.8 6.12 13. 9.9 10. He is called the messenger of the Covenant Mal. 3.1 For in him GOD reconciled the world to himselfe 2 Cor. 5.19 There are multitudes of promises also concerning CHRIST and the generall benefits by him in the New Testament 1. That he shall save us The Evangelist Matthew gives this reason of his name JESUS For hee shall save his people from their sinnes from the guiltinesse power and punishment of them The Sonne of man is come to seeke and save that which was lost Luke 19.10 GOD sent his Sonne into the world that the world through him might be saved Iohn 3.17 The Apostle with a vehement asseveration affirmeth this This is a faithfull saying and worthy of all acceptation that CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners 1 Tim. 1.15 Hence CHRIST is often called our Saviour Esay 49.26 Esay 60.16 Luke 2.11 1 Tim. 1.1 1 Tim. 2.3 2. CHRIST is said to be A light to the Gentiles Matth. 4.16 The light of the world John 8.13 9.5 under this comparison of Light all benefits which CHRIST brings us are contained light of knowledge grace and glory Hitherto belong all such Scriptures as shew CHRIST to be our Life Col. 3.4 Iohn 6.33 Ioh. 14.6 CHRIST also cals himselfe The bread of life Ioh. 6.35 51. Compares himselfe to a Vine Iohn 15.1 to teach that as the branch hath his whole
also he iustified and whom hee iustified them also hee glorified Rom. 8.30 2. Promises to make us righteous As by one mans disobedience many were made sinners so by the obedience of one shall many bee made righteous Rom. 5.19 therefore we are said to be the righteousnesse of GOD in him 2 Cor. 5.21 For this cause CHRIST is called The LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESSE Ier. 23.6 33.16 CHRIST is made unto us righteousnesse 1 Cor. 1.30 He is said to be the end of the law for righteousnesse to every one that beleeveth Rom. 10.4 and the Sacraments are said to be the Seales of the righteousnesse of faith Rom. 4.11 He hath covered mee with a robe of righteousnesse Abraham beleeved GOD and it was imputed to him for righteousnesse Gal. 3.6 This imputed righteousnesse the Papists scoffe at and call it a putative righteousnesse and yet the phrase is used tenne times in one Chapter 4. Reconciliation By CHRIST wee are reconciled to GOD. GOD hath reconciled us to himselfe by JESUS CHRIST GOD was in CHRIST reconciling the world unto himselfe 2 Cor. 5.18 19. CHRIST is our peace who hath made both one that he might reconcile both unto GOD Ephes. 2.14 16. You that were sometime alienated yet now hath he reconciled Col. 1.21 5. Adoption Promises 1. of it Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sonnes of GOD 1 Joh. 3.1 2. But to as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sonnes of GOD even to them that beleeve in his name Iohn 1.12 That is a gracious promise which the Apostle citeth out of the Prophet Hosea Rom. 9.26 And it shall be in the place where it was said unto them yee are not my people that there they shall be called the children of the living GOD. So the LORD promiseth to such as shall separate themselves from the wicked 2 Cor. 6.18 Hee that overcommeth shall inherit all things and I will be his GOD and hee shall be my sonne Rev. 21.7 Blessed are the peace-makers for they shall be called the sonnes of GOD Mat. 5.9 It was GODS promise to David concerning Salomon 2 Sam. 7.14 I will be his father and hee shall be my sonne Whereupon David much affected and ravished saith verse 18. O LORD GOD what am I or my fathers house that thou shouldst vouchsafe me so great honour and happinesse as to finde my childe yea to take him for thine owne and to become his Father See that excellent place Gal. 4.4 5 6 7. Rom. 8.17 2. To it paternity promiseth all blessings Mat. 7.11 and all forbearance Psal. 103.13 Heb. 12.5 6. CHAP. VIII PROMISES 1. Of the Spirit THe giving of the Spirit is a part of GODS Covenant I will powre out my Spirit upon all flesh in those daies and your young men shall see visions c. Ioel 2.28 29. which is repeated Acts 2.17 18. The great Promise that our Saviour CHRIST made to them before he departed in the flesh was this I will baptize you with the HOLY GHOST which was fulfilled after when he powred forth his Spirit So Esay 44.3 I will powre water upon him that is thirsty and flouds upon the drie ground I will powre my spirit upon thy seed and my blessing upon thy off-spring the latter end of the verse interprets it So Ezek. 36.25 26 27. I will put my spirit within you c. I will powre upon the house of David the spirit of grace and supplications Zach. 12.10 How much more shall your heavenly Father give the Spirit to them that aske him Luke 11.13 I will powre out my spirit unto you Prov. 1.23 This is meant in that place Ioh. 4.10 Where our Saviour saith to the woman of Samaria thou wouldest have asked of him and hee would have given thee living water that is the Spirit as appeares by comparing it with Iohn 7.38 39. I will pray the Father and hee shall give you another Comforter that he may abide with you for ever even the Spirit of truth Iohn 14.16 17. It is said Ephes. 1.13 They were sealed with the Spirit of promise that is which was promised to all Beleevers and Gal. 3.14 we are said by faith to receive the promise of the Spirit that is the Spirit of promise or that had beene promised CHRIST had the Spirit in the fullnesse of it It pleased the Father that in him should all fullnesse dwell Col. 1.19 all fullnesse both in respect of the number of graces Esay 11.2 and in respect of the measure of them Iohn 3.34 Col. 2.3 Of his fullnesse we shall all receive and grace for grace Ioh. 1.16 grace freely and grace upon grace Zach. 14.8 A Promise to those that have the Spirit As many as are led by the Spirit of GOD they are the sonnes of GOD Rom. 8.14 CHAP. IX The operation of the Spirit 1. In Generall Sanctification 2. In Speciall 1. Spirituall graces 2. Spirituall duties 1. The kinds of them 2. The degrees of them 1. The Promises of Sanctification _â—OD promiseth in the Covenant of grace which hee hath made with his people to take away their hearts of stone and give them hearts of flesh to put his law in their inward parts and write it in their hearts to put his feare in their hearts that they shall not depart from him and to give them a new heart and to put his Spirit within them The substance of which Covenant is this that all their sins shall be forgiven and both the guilt and punishment thereof wholly remooved Their persons shall be justified and their natures sanctified the lawes of GOD and his promises shall be written in their mindes so that they shall have the knowledge of them and in their hearts so that they shall have the comfort feeling and fruition of them they shall not onely have interest in all GODS graces and blessings but according to their neede shall have the use and enjoyment thereof The LORD often promiseth to Sanctifie and make holy his people as Exod 19.6 31.13 Levit. 22.32 Esay 4.3 4 35.8 Ioel 3.17 Sanctifie them through thy truth John 17.17 and ver 19. For their sakes I sanctifie my selfe that they also might be sanctified through the truth The LORD hath sworne that his children shall serve him in holinesse and righteousnesse all the daies of their life Luke 1.73 74 75. The GOD of peace sanctifie you wholly Faithfull is hee that hath called you who also will doe it 1 Thess. 5.23 24. CHRIST is made unto us Sanctification 1 Cor. 1.30 The LORD hath said that his children shall not want any needfull Grace for the leading of a godly life Psal. 84.11 There shall be a fountaine opened for sinne and for uncleanenesse Zach. 13.1 it is GODS Covenant to sprinkle cleane water upon us that we may be cleane and to cleanse us from all our filthinesse and all our Idols
to be conveyed wheresoever they are Prayer is profitable to obtaine every thing as is evident by the promise of CHRIST Iohn 16.23 Verily verily I say unto you whatsoever yee shall aske the Father iâ— my name hee will give it you Note the certainty of the promise in CHRISTS vehement asseveration note the generality of it whatsoever Our Saviour oft repeated such promises in those heavenly and last speeches which he uttered to his Disciples Iohn 14.13 Ioh. 15.7 16 See Mar. 11.24 Iohn 9.31 1 Iohn 3.22 5.14 15. I may say of prayer as the Apostle saith of Godlinesse it hath the promises of this life and that which is to come 1. For this life Temporall and Spirituall things are promised to prayer 1. Temporall 1. The prayer of faith shall save the sicke and the LORD shall raise him up Iam. 5.15 2. Spirituall 1. It obtaineth remission of sins and if hee have committed sinnes they shall be forgiven him the same verse of 5. of Iâ—mes 2. The Spirit How much more shall your heavenly Father give good things to them that aske him Matth. 7.11 Give the holy Spirit to them that aske him So it is Luke 11 13. 2. For the life to come Prayer obtaineth eternall life and salvation For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved Rom. 10.13 That Promise that is made to our prayers runs thus If thou prepare thine heart and stretch out thine hands towards him c. Iob 11.13 The stretching out of our hands or of our voice either is to little purpose if our heart be not prepared first Promises To fervent prayer Then yee shall call upon me and ye shall goe and pray unto me and I will hearken unto you And ye shall seeke me and find me when ye shall search for me with all your heart that is truly and fervently saith Greenham The effectuall prayer of a righteous man availeth much both for the helping of the body and healing of the soule but with this proviso if it be fervent open thy mouth wide that is earnestly confidently call upon me and I will fill it that is I will satisfie thy desire to the full Aske and it shall be given you seeke and yee shall find knocke and it shall be opened unto you Matth. 7.7 Aske seeke knocke It is not a simple repetition of the same thing but a gradation It shews instantissimam neâ—essitatem saith Austen Aske â—s a begger seeke as with a candle knocke as one that hath powâ—r with importunity One thus descants upon the place Aske with the mouth seek with the heart knock with the hand and it shall be given you that is for Temporall things and yee shall find that is for Spirituall things and it shall be opened unto you that is for Eternall things Promises 1. To Secret Prayer When thou prayest enter into thy closet and when thou hast shut thy dore pray to thy Father which is in secret and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly 2. To Private or Family prayer Where two or three are gathered together in my name there aâ— I in the midst of them Matth 18.20 3. To publike prayer Publike for 1. Matter 2. Place 1. A promise to those that pray for the Church Remember Sion they shall prosper that love thee Psalme 122.6 7. 2. Promises to the prayers of the Congregation made in the Church Hierusalem had singular promises made unto it such as had no particular Church in the world besides Psalm 132.14 There is a speciall promise made to the prayers made in the Temple 2 Chron. 7.15 Mine eyes shall be open and mine eares attent unto the prayer tâ—at is made in this place 1 Kings 9.3 The LORD hath promised that he will cause his servants to rejoyce in the granting of their suites which they shall make unto him in his owne house Esay 56.7 upon the like promise made by GOD Salomon at the consecration of the Temple 1 King 8.30 33. groundeth his Prayer that the LORD would in speciall manner heare the suites and supplications of his servants publikely assembled in his Temple to call upon him See the 5. Book cap 1. A promise To Preaching GOD hath made a speciall promise to this that he will be with it to assist and blesse it Matth. 28.20 I am with you alwaies even unto the end of the world Promises To Reading In Reading of the Word if we understand not we should apply these Promises Prov. 1.23 I will powre out my Spirit unto you I will make knowne my Words unto you Prov. 1.4 It gives subtilty to thâ— simple to the young men knowledge and discretion The Commandement of the LORD is pure inlightningâ— the eyes Ps. 19.8 GOD hath promised to teach and instruct such by his Spirit that bring good and honest hearts to the reading and hearing of the Word Psal. 25.12 What man is he that fearth the LORD him will he teach in the way that he shall choose The promise of finding is made to those who seeke as for gold and search as for treasure Pro. 2.3 4 5. Promises to sâ—ch as love the Word of GOD. Great peace have they which love thy Law and nothing shall offend them Ps. 119.165 Blessed is the man that delighteth greatly in his commandements Ps. 112.1 A promise to those that waite for the Word There is a blessing promised to such hearers as wait for the Word Blessed is the man that heareth me watching daily at my gates waiting at the posts of my doores For who so findeth me findeth life and obtaineth favour of the LORD Promises that GODS children shall hearken to the Word The eares of them that heare shall hearken Psa. 32 3. See Esaias 50.4 Acts 16.14 Promises to such as conscionably hearken to the Word Hoe every one that thirsteth come yee to the water and he that hath no mony come yee buy and eat yea come buy wine and milke without mony and without price Hearken diligently unto me and eat ye that which is good and let your soule delight it selfe in fatnesse Encline your eare and come unto me heare and your soule shall live c. There the LORD freely offereth saving grace to such as have none and nothing whereby they might purchase it 2. He setteth out a way wherby they might injoy it viz. a diligent hearing and beleiving GODS Word 3. He makes most sweet promises that their soule shall live that is they shall be quickned in CHRIST and in him the seed of David be made partakers of those mercies which shall never decay If thou warne the righteous man that the righteous sinne not and he doth not sin he shall surely live because he is warned Ezek. 3.21 The conscionable hearing of GODS Word quickens the soule and makes it to live both the life of grace and of glory He that heareth my word and beleeveth on him that sent
thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD Thou shalt see thy childrens children Ps. 128.3 4 6. See Esay 48.19 Ps. 115.14 127.3 Ps. 113.9 These promises may aboundantly suffice to settle the minds and hearts of any true beleever under this tentation of griefe for want of children that assuredly GOD will fulfill their desire if it be good for them 2. To blesse their children every way 1. With outward things 2. In their soules GOD hath made a free and gracious Covenant with the beleeving Parents and their posterity Gen. 17.7 9. Act. 2.39 Ier. 32.39 He hath promised to blesse their children every way He will blesse the fruit of thy wombe Deut. 7.13 This is intended in all those places where it is said I will be the GOD of thy seed which was said to Abraham the father of the faithfull Gen. 17. and belongeth to all beleevers The just man walketh in his integrity his children are blessed after him Pro. 20.7 1. GOD will blesse them with outward things Personall goodnesse is a good means to bring safety honour wealth and many comfortable blessings upon posterity Exod. 20.6 Their children and childrens children to many generations shall be blessed Ps. 37.25 26. Pro. 11.21 His seed shall be mighty upon the earth the generation of the upright shall be blessed Ps. 112.2 His seed shall inherit the earth Ps. 25 13. Ps. 37.29 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his childrens children Pro. 13.22 2. GOD will blesse them in their soules I will powre my Spirit upon thy seed Esa. 44.3 4. Thy children shall be taught of the LORD and great shall be the peace of thy children Esay 54.13 If we know our selves to be GODS children we may be assured saith one that some of our posterity shall be so likewise They are foederati in GODS Covenant by meanes of their Parents whom when GOD received into the Church he received them with this promise I will be thy GOD and the GOD of thy seed Good Parents though they be poore leave their children a good patrimony for they have laid up many prayers for them in heaven and they leave them GODS favour for their possession this is urged therefore as a motive by the HOLY GHOST to provoke Parents unto all righteousnesse Deut. 5.29 It is promised as a blessing that mothers shall give sucke to the children that they beare GOD shall blesse thee with the blessings of the breasts and of the wombe Gen. 49.25 Promises To Parents correcting their children The rod and reproofe give wisdome correct thy son and he shall give thee rest yea he shall give delight to thy soule Proverbs 29.15 17. Hold not correction from thy childe for if thou beatest him with the rod he shall not die Thou shalt beate him with the rod and shalt deliver his soule from Hell Pro. 23.13 â—4 Foolishnesse is bound in the heart of a childe but the rod of correction shall drive it farre from him Pro. 22.15 Promises to comfort them in the want of children To them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better then of sonnes and of daughters I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off Esa. 56.5 Promises To children obeying their Parents Honour thy Father and thy Mother that thy dayes may be long upon the Land which the LORD thy GOD giveth thee Exod 20.12 The Apostle Ephes. 6.2 saith this is the first Commandement with promise The second Commandement hath a Promise annexed unto it and a large one of shewing mercy unto thousands to them that love GOD Exod. 20.6 The Greeke word used by the Apostle properly signifieth an affirmative precept as our English word Commandement doth of the affirmative precepts it is the first with promise Secondly the promise in the second Commandement is only a generall promise made to observers of the whole Law and therfore he useth the plurall number Commandements and saith in the generall shewing mercy to thousands but this is a speciall promise made to them that keep this particular Commandement that it may be well with thee and thou mayest live this answer is given by many Learned Divines It followeth ver 3. That it may be well with thee and thou maist live long on the Earth The promise mentioned before in generall is particularly set down Whatsoever belongeth to a mans well-fare and wel-being in this life is here promised saith D. Willet All manner of blessings Spirituall and Temporall belonging to soule and body concerning this life and the life to come make to a mans well-being but temporall prosperity is here principally intended saith Doctor Gouge And Ieremiah saith unto the house of the Rechabites Thus saith the LORD of Hosts the GOD of Israel because yee have obeyed the commandement of Ionadab your father and kept all his precepts and done according unto all that he hath commanded you Therfore thus saith the LORD of Hoasts the GOD of Israel Ionadab the sonne of Rechab shall not want a man to stand before me for ever My sonne heare the instruction of thy father and forsake not the law of thy mother For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head and chains about thy neck Prov. 1.8 9. See 6.20 CHAP. VIII Promises For Company That we shall reap good by the society of the godly HE that walketh with wise men shall be wise Prov. 13.20 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another and the LORD hearkened and heard it and a booke of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD and that thought upon his name And they shall be mine saith the LORD of Hosts in that day when I make up my Iewels and I will spare them as a man spareth his owne sonne that serveth him Where two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them Mat. 18.20 FINIS An Alphabeticall Table of the principall things contained in this Treatise A. ABsolute promises pag. 12. Adoption promises of it 289. 2. To it 291. Afflictions promises to prevent them 155 156. Or qualifie them if they do come 157 158. Affliction is momentary 159. GOD afflictâ— his children for their good 161 162. Afflictions are tryals 163. Afflictions purge sin 165 166. and quicken graces faith hope patience 168. GOD promiseth to help his to bear afflictions and in due time to remove them 169 170. The use of faith in respect of Gods promises concerning afflictions 173. to 176. Alms-giving promises to it 402 403. Angels guard the godly 272. Antichrist promises against him 434 435. Apostles promises to them 441. Application of the promises 30 72. Means to apply them 32 33. Rules to be observed in applying them 41. Examples of such as have applied them 35 74. The divel would hinder the faithfull from a right applying of them 37. The wicked misapply them
39 67 74 75. Assurance 74 75 306 307. B BAckesliding comforts against it 243 244. Baptisme promises to it 393. Barrennesse comforts against spirituall barrennesse 262 263. Blesse GOD will blesse all outward things to his children 212 213. Blessings by CHRIST to the godly 280. Body promises to Gods children in respect of the Body 198. Bounty promises to bounty to â—ODS Ministers 406. Buriall 420. C CAlling promises to diligence in a calling 209 210. Effectuall calling 280 281. Captivity comforts against it 187 188. Children promises concerning children 449 c. Promises to children obeying their Parents 454 455. Christ promises belong to him as Head of the Church 104 c. Promises of Christ 274 275. Church promises to the Church in generall or particular Churches 428 c. Company a promise to those that dislike evill company 232. Promises to good company 457. Conditionall promises 15 16 59 60. Conference promises of and to it 41 42. Confession of sinne promises to it 332 333. Confidence promises of and to it 309 c. Conversion promises of and to it 347 348. Correction See Afflictions GOD corrects in great wisdom and in love 157 158. They are blessed whom the LORD correcteth 161 c. Promises to correction of children 453 454. Covenant is mutuall between God and us 94.95 What the word covenant signifies 111 112. How it is taken in Scripture 113. The definition of a covenant in generall 114 115. The division of a covenant in generall 114 115. The covenants of works and grace â—15 116. their severall appellations agreements and differences 116 219. Why the Covenant of grace is called a Covenant and Testament and why it is termed old and new 126 127 128 129. How the old Covenant made with the Jews agrees and differs from the covenant of works 129 130 131. How the old and new covenant or Testament agree and differ 132 133. The covenant of grace handled in a speciall manner as it is a cluster of all the promises 137 138. The priviledges of those that are in Covenant with GOD 140 c. How to know whether we be in Covenant with GOD 144 145. What use we are to make of the covenant 146 147. c. Covetousnesse promises against it 233. D DAngers see Afflictions Damnation promises against it 415. Deâ—fâ—nesse comforts against spiâ—iâ—â—all deafenesse 240. 〈◊〉 comforts against the feare of death 417. and the feare of untimely death 419. Delighting in GOD promises of it and a promise to it 410 411. Desertions comforts to GODS people in spirituall desertions 265 266. Desire promises to such as unfainedly desire grace 308 309. Distractions comforts against them 251 252. Duties GOD hath promised to assist his children by his Spirit in holy duties 368 369. he will also accept the services of his children and reward them 371 372. E ELect the promises belong to them only 180 c. Estate promises to Gods children for their outward estate 205 206 207. Eternall life promises of it 423 424. Evills promises against evils in the world 231 232. Comforts to the godly for evils of good done 252 253. Self examination promises to it 399. Excellency of the promises 18 19 c. Experience of God in his promises confirmeth faith and nourisheth hope 46 47. c. F FAith promises of and to it 303 304. How Faith and hope agree and differ 6 213 314 315. How Faith and presumption differ 39 40. Live by Faith 34 35. Gods promises are faithfull 15 77 102 103. Falling away comforts against fears of falling-away 253 254 c. Famine promises for helpe in famine and deliverance from it 184 185 Fasting promises to it 396. Feare promises of and to it 324 325 326. Food promises of it 204 205. Forgetfullnesse a promise against it 249. Forgiving iniuries promises to it 322 323. Forgivenesse of sinnes promises of it 282 283. c. Frailties comforts in regard of slips and frailties 241 c. Free Gods promises are free 65 66 67 68. G GEnerality of the promises 68 69 70. Gentiles promises for bringing them in 438 439. Give promises to liberall and chearfull giving 405. Godlinesse promises to it 411 412. Godly promises to them 412 413. Glorification promises for the glorification of our soules and bodies 423. Glory promises for the glory of heaven 425 426. Growth in grace promises of and to it 365 366 367. H HEalth promises of it 200 201. Honour promises of it 196. Hope what it is 312 313. Promises of and to hope 313 314. The agreement and difference betweene Faith and Hope 6.313 Hope is preserved by a consideration of foure attributes in God 315. House GOD hath promised to keep the houses and habitations of the godly 446. Humility promises to it 349. Husband promises to him 448 449. I IEwes promises for calling them 436 437. Ignorance comforts against it 238 239. Imprisonment promises to those that are imprisoned for the Gospel 228 229. Indisposition comforts against it 251. Infirmities comforts against them 235 236 c. Ioy promises of it 316 317. c. Iudgement promises concerning the last judgement 422. Iustification promises of it 281. K KIlling of sin see mortification Knowledge promises of and to it 300 301. L LAmenesse comforts against spirituall lamenesse 244 c. Law 115 116. Liberality promises to liberality to the Saints 405 406. Long life promises of it 198 199. Lords supper promises to it 194. Losses for Gods cause promises to those that loose outward things and life it self for Christ 229 230 Love comforts to such as are troubled with doubts and fears of loosing Gods love 248 249. Promises of Gods love to us 268 269. A promise of our love to him 319 320. Pâ—omises to the love of Christ 327 Promises to the love of our brethren and enemies 322 323. Promises to such as love the word 387. M MAgistrates promises to them 440. Masters of Families 445. Meanes comforts to those who are troubled for want of the meanes 261 262. Meditation in the promises 32. Promises to Meditation 398 399. Meeknesse promises of and to it 350 351. Ministers promises to faithfull Ministers 441 442 443. Mortification promises of and to to it 340 341 c. Mothers a promise that they shall give suck to their children 453. Mourning for sin see sorrow N NAme promises of a good name 198. Nature of the promises 1. to 8. O Oath promises to a lawfull oath 395. Obedience promises of and to it 327. to 330. Promises to willing and generall obedience 331. Oppression promises against it 189. Ordinances promises to the Ordinances of GOD generally 373. P PArents promises to give them children and to blesse them e-every way 449. to 453. Promises to comfort them in the want of children 454. Patience a promise of it and promises to it 352 353. Peace promises of outward and inward peace 359 360. Promises to peaceable men or peace-makers 203. marg Persecution promises to those that are persecuted for the profession
but it is a notable glorifying of God the glory of his truth is given him when a man doth as it were subscribe to GODS Word and set his Seale to iâ— Ioh 3.33 Rom 4 20. not to beleeve is horriâ—le preâ—umption for that we presume to give God the lie â— Ioh 5. â—0 for he that doth not in speciall apply the promise unto himselfe doth not in heart beleeve the generall promise Non enâ—m hic sensus est quem fingit Bellarminus credo in Ecclesia dari remissionem peccatorum quod Diabolus atque desperabundus quivis potest credere sed credo diri remissionem peccatorum per Christum mihi quia in illum Credo Episc Daven in Col. Generals of promise blessing or comfort delivered in Scripture are intentionally meant to particulars rightly qualified Quod omnibus promiâ—titur singulis promittitur a 1 Ioh. 1.7 Esay 1.8 Ezek. 18.22 b Ezek. 3â— 12 c Mat. 1â— 28 * Poenitentia vera nunquaÌ„ sera at poenitentia sera rarò vera Austen Qui promisit â—oenitenti veniam non promisit peccanti poenitentiam Peccanti crastinum non promisit Nemo promiâ—tat sibi quod Evangelium non promittit Nehem. 9.8 * A firme sate and uncorruptible Covenant which lasts for ever Num 18.19 Decretum ab omni corruptione tutum perpetuumque saith Iunius Every word of his mouth is exactly performed aâ— his people by experience have found and confessed Iosh. 21 45. 1 King 8.56 * 2 King 10.30 a The promise Gen 12 2 3. performance Gen. 13.26.24.1.35 the promise Gen. 15.5 fulfilled Deut. 10.22 the promise Gen. 17 16 9. fulfilled Gen. 21.1 2. b Promise to Isaac Gen 26.3 fulfiâ—led 12 13. verses c To Iacob Gen. 24.15 fulfilled Gen. â—5 3. His love moveâ— him to promise his truth binds him to performe Deut. 7 7 8. 2 Sam. 7.18 21. Micah 7 20. The promises run all upon mercy Exod 20.6 34 7. Deut. 5.10 Luk. 1 50 Psal. 103 17 18. Mat. 5 7. Psal. 62 2. Every one of Gods promises is as sure as himselfe being confirmed with his owne oath Heb. 17 18. Luk. 1 7â— Esay 54.9 D. Benefield on Amos 1.2 Psal. 119.89 152. Psal. 33.11 Num. 13.19 2 Pet. 29. It is not Gods power simply but with relation to his promise which secures our faith Luk. 1.37 Psal 1â—5 3. 135 6. In Dei pâ—omissis nulla falsit is est quia in facieâ—dis nulla omnipotentâ— est difficultas Fulgentius God having made a promise unto Israel to restore them out of that great Captivity of Babylon and it seeming to them incredible he acquainteth them with his power together with his promises Ezek. 37.11 13. Where the Holy Ghost intreats of the doctrine of repentance and faith the word create is metaphorically useâ— to assure us that God will performe his promise though it were as hard a worke as to create all things at first Thus hee hath promised to create a clean heart Ps 51. and to create the fruite of lips to be peace Esay 57.9 and to create upon every place c. Esa 4.5 and to create light and deliâ—erance out of afflictions Esa. 45 7. God performeth his promise when there is no ground nor possibility in nature for itâ— notwithstanding all the media incongruâ—i dissimilia Iob 15.25 26 â—7 All the promises are as true as truth it selfe The promises are called suâ—e Rom 4 16. Promâ—ssa tua sunt Deus qua falit timeat cum promittii veritas August Confes l. 12. c. 10. His words are as deeds his promises as performances The land which was onely promâ—sed to Abraham is said Gen. â—5 12 to be given him Promittendo se fecit debitorem Austen 1 Ioh. 1.9 Verba illa Iustâ—s fidelis referuntur ad promissionem divinam Bellar. de poenitent l. 3. c. 6. God is as just in performing the mercy which he promiseth as in executing the vengeance which he threatneth 2 Tim. 2.13 1 Thess. 5.24 Gen. 3 1. Moses bewrayed his infidelity Num. 11 1â— 14.15 Christs Disciples and otheâ—s that believed in him accounted the promises of his resurrection to be vaine Luk. 24.11 25. Psal. 105.24 Luk. 1. 18 20 The Covenant is mutuall betweene God and us 1 King 8.23 God hath said that he will be All-sufficient to us but he requires then on our part that we be Altogether his Cant. 2.16 In marriage the woman must take the may for her husband as well as he her for his wife True faiths apprehension of Christ is mutuall it laies hold on Christ as we use to do in our salutatioÌ„s when we imbrace one another there is mutuall hold on both sides Whence the act of the Patriarkes faith apprehending the promises Heb. 11.13 is elegantly set out by the metaphor of saluting They saluted the promises True faith kissing Christ is kissed of him embracing Christ is reimbraced of him Phil. 3.12 a Psal. 15.4 b When we receive this command from God keepe my covenant we should pray with Austen Da Dominc quod iubes iube quid vu or as the Church teacheth us when wee heare the 10. CommaÌ„dements Lord have mercy on us and incline our hearts to keep this law c Exod. 19 5 Deut. 5.16 Is a good exposition of this place So farre as long life may be a benefit to Gods children so far he giveth it to them Gen. 25.8 * He promised â—itam 〈◊〉 â—ongatam and gave vitam perpeuatam for it In Coelis repâ—sita est maior compensatio Calvin 1 Chron. 34.28 Acts 7.5 Tibi dabo semini tuo Gen. 13.15 Particula et videtur exegetica Pareus in locum God delayeth the fulfilling of his promises Hab. 2.3 Goodnesse makes the promise truth performes it and wisdome observes the fittest time Esay 60.22 2 King 4.16 17. Gen. 3.15 Iude 14. The Amorites countrey is by promise given to Abâ—ahams see iâ— Gen. 12 7. 13.15 and 15.18 and Abrahams seede in the posterity of Iacob possessed it Amos 2 10. but some 400 seventy yeares after the promise Luke 2. â—5 Alwaies some distance of time passeth beâ—weene promises â—erfoâ—mances Pollicitiâ— diveâ— quilibet este potest Ovid. * Matth. 4. Excelsâ— fro 〈◊〉 in excelso On a mountaine he promiseth mouÌ„taines 1 Pet. 1.4 * Like the man in Erasmus his naufragium who in a storme promised the Virgin a picture of wax as big as S. Christopher but when hee came to shâ—re would not give a tallow candle Heb. 6.12 15 Psal. 130.7 8 * He promised the câ—ildren of Israel onely the land of Canaan but hee gave them besides the whole lâ—nd of Canaan two other kingdomes which he never promised and to Zachary for his unbeleefe stricken dumbe he promised to give his speech at the birth of the child but besides he gave him also the gift of prophecy God prevents his people with his blessings Psal. 2â— 3 He is bountifull to them afore they aske ver 3. and above their requests ver 4. Christ
many of them 3. Freedome from all temptations CHRIST himselfe was tempted 4. Lesse principall graces the common gifts of the Spirit these are distributed severally 1 Cor. 12.8 5. The measure of sanctifying graces some Saints have a greater measure of grace and some a lesse Some Promises are in divers respects both Absolute and Conditionall as that Exod. 3.17 of bringing the Israelites into the land of Canaan for in respect of the people of Israel it was absolâ—te and at length really accomplished but if we consider all the particular Israelites it had an implicite condition viz. if they were obedient to GOD. Lastly the Promises are either such as pertaine unto this life or the life to come The Promises pertaining unto this life are either Spirituall concerning the soule such are the promises of GODS graces or Temporall concerning the body as health wealth The Promises appertaining unto the life to come are eternall life the crowne of glory which concerne both soule and body These I shall handle fully afterward CHAP. III. 3. The Excellency of them THe Promises of GOD are a Rich Mine of Spirituall and Heavenly treasures they are a garden of most precious flowers of medicinable herbes they are as the Poole of Bethesda for all diseases for all sorts of persons and at all times They are called the unsearchable riches of CHRIST Ephes. 3.6 8. to assure us that hee is a very rich man that hath his heart stored with the promises of GOD well applied One stiles them pabulum fidei the food of faith As â—aith is the life of the Soule so GODS promise is the life of Faith They are the inheritance of GODS people Dauid did so account of them Thy promises have I claimed as mine heritage for ever for they are the Ioy of my heart Psal. 119.111 and all the people of GOD are Heires of all his Promises Rom. 9.8 The very keeping of the Records of these Promises was a great Prerogative to the Jewes Rom. 3.2 and it is accounted a singular happinesse for the Gentiles that they may now partake of these Promises Ephes. 3.6 The Apostle Peter saith that they are Exceeding great and precious promises 2 Pet. 1.4 which GOD hath given to us They are most great and precious for quantity Great exceeding great for quality Good exceeding good Precious 1. In respect of the Author of them GOD He is said in Scripture to be the giver of them Rom. 1.2 1 Tim. 1.1 Tit. 1.2 2. The ground of them JESUS CHRIST for whose sake we obtaine them and the price he paied to purchase them for us his precious blood 1 Pet. 1.19 3. The manner how they are given freely the fountaine from which they spring is the precious loving kindnesse of GOD Psal. 36.7 4. The meanes whereby they are apprehended that precious grace of faith 2 Pet. 1.1 5. The great and inestimable profit flowing from them and the end why they are bestowed upon us that we might be partakers of the Divine nature that is of the graces of the HOLY GHOST 6. In regard of the excellencie of the things promised life and godlinesse or glory and vertue which the Apostle Peter mentioned 3. ver of that 1. Chapter The ordinary Glosse would have life eternall to be there promised There is nothing in the world so excellent so precious so sweet and so comfortable as the promises are Psal. 119.103 Cardan saith that every precious stone hath some egregious vertue and Iosephus observeth that the splendor and brightnesse of the precious stones in the High-Priests brest-plate foreshewed victory I examine not the truth of those relations but I dare say there is more soveraigne vertue in one of GODS precious promises than in all the precious stones of the world I may say of them as Salomon saith of a vertuous woman that their price is farre above rubies or as he speakes of wisdome that they are better then rubies and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to them The bright lustre also of these precious stones observed by the quick eye of faith presageth certaine victory over all our enemies If we can behold the face of GOD to shine upon us by proving our interest in his promises we shall be in all things more then Conquerors through Him that loveth us The Promises of GOD applyed by faith will put such an undaunted courage into the heart of the weakest Christian that he will not feare the rigour of the Law 1 Tim. 1.9 the rage of Satan Ephes. 6.16 the tyranny of the world 1 Ioh. 5.4 the gastly and grimme face of Death 1 Cor. 15.55 nor the torments of Hell Ioh. 3.16 Therefore a truly humbled spirit relishing Spirituall things would not exchange any one of the Promises for the riches and sweetnesse of both the Indies In many of Davids Psalmes the beginnings are full of trouble but joy and assurance is to be found in the end so that one would imagine saith Peter du Moulin that the Psalmes had beene composed by two men of a contrary humour but he assigneth this as the cause of so sudden a change Davids soule at the last raising up it selfe from under its burden and adhering to the promises he found abundance of comfort Mr. Bolton hath three excellent Stories to this purpose The first is of a woman greatly distressed in conscience who industriously sought the destruction of her selfe but being most miraculously preserved shee afterward received comfort from that promise Esay 57.15 Thus saith the High and loftie one that inhabiteth Eternity whose Name is Holy I dwell in the high and holy place with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones And to use his phrase she went to Heaven in the yeare of our LORD 1595. Another Godly Man in his sicknesse stedfastly fixed his heart upon that sweetest Promise Esay 26.3 Thou wilt keepe him in perfect peace whose minde is stayed on thee because hee trusteth in thee and said GOD had graciously made it fully good unto his soule A Scottish Penitent also at the place of execution when he was ready to die laid hold on that Matth. 11.28 saying I challenge thee LORD by that promise which thou hast made that thou performe and make it good unto me that call for ease and mercy at thy hands S. Paul boasteth that he is an Apostle of CHRIST according to the promise 2 Tim. 1.1 The Patriarkes hugged and embraced the promises as a chiefe stay of their lives in their pilgrimage on earth Heb. 11.13 Vrsine was comforted by that place Ioh. 10.29 and Bilney was much quieted by that saying of S. Paul This is a faithfull saying and worthy of all acceptation that CHRIST JESUS came into world to save sinners of whom I am chiefe There is a commandement of the LORD