thanksgiving_n the_o experience_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o and_o upon_o believer_n be_v sweet_a unto_o their_o soul_n but_o one_o way_n or_o other_o they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o all_o they_o have_v not_o a_o prevail_a aversation_n unto_o any_o of_o they_o they_o have_v a_o regard_n unto_o all_o god_n precept_n a_o delight_n in_o all_o his_o counsel_n a_o love_n to_o himself_o and_o all_o his_o way_n whatever_o other_o change_n be_v wrought_v on_o the_o affection_n if_o they_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o they_o for_o as_o they_o do_v not_o cleave_v unto_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o their_o own_o true_a proper_a nature_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n because_o of_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n in_o they_o so_o there_o be_v always_o some_o of_o they_o whereunto_o those_o who_o affection_n be_v not_o renew_v do_v maintain_v a_o aversation_n and_o a_o enmity_n and_o although_o this_o frame_n do_v not_o instant_o discover_v itself_o yet_o it_o will_v do_v so_o upon_o any_o especial_a trial_n so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o hearer_n of_o our_o saviour_n joh._n 6._o there_o be_v a_o great_a impression_n make_v on_o their_o affection_n by_o what_o he_o teach_v they_o concern_v the_o bread_n of_o god_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o give_v life_n unto_o the_o world_n for_o they_o cry_v thereon_o lord_n evermore_o give_v we_o of_o this_o bread_n v_o 34._o but_o when_o the_o mystery_n of_o it_o be_v further_o explain_v unto_o they_o they_o like_v it_o not_o but_o cry_v this_o be_v a_o hard_a say_v who_o can_v bear_v it_o v_o 60_o and_o thereon_o fall_v off_o both_o from_o he_o and_o his_o doctrine_n although_o they_o have_v follow_v he_o so_o long_o as_o to_o be_v esteem_v his_o disciple_n v_o 66._o i_o say_v therefore_o whensoever_o man_n affection_n be_v not_o renew_v whatever_o other_o change_n may_v have_v be_v wrought_v upon_o they_o as_o they_o have_v no_o true_a delight_n in_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n or_o truth_n for_o themselves_o and_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n so_o there_o be_v some_o instance_n wherein_o they_o will_v maintain_v their_o natural_a enmity_n and_o aversation_n unto_o they_o this_o be_v the_o first_o difference_n between_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v and_o those_o which_o from_o any_o other_o cause_n may_v have_v some_o kind_n of_o change_n wrought_v in_o they_o chap._n xiiii_o the_o second_o difference_n between_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v and_o those_o who_o have_v be_v only_o change_v by_o light_n and_o conviction_n ground_n and_o reason_n of_o man_n delight_n in_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o of_o their_o diligence_n in_o their_o performance_n who_o mind_n be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_a the_o second_o difference_n lie_v herein_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o change_n in_o the_o affection_n wherein_o man_n may_v have_v delight_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o religious_a worship_n and_o diligence_n in_o their_o observance_n but_o it_o be_v the_o spiritual_a revovation_n of_o the_o affection_n that_o give_v delight_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n in_o any_o duty_n of_o religious_a worship_n whatever_o where_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v know_v and_o public_o profess_v there_o be_v great_a variety_n in_o the_o mind_n way_n and_o practice_n of_o man_n about_o the_o duty_n of_o religious_a worship_n many_o be_v profane_a in_o their_o mind_n and_o life_n who_o practical_o at_o least_o despise_v or_o whole_o neglect_v the_o observance_n of_o they_o these_o be_v stout_a heart_a and_o far_o from_o righteousness_n tit._n 1.16_o some_o attend_v unto_o they_o formal_o and_o coursory_o from_o the_o principle_n of_o their_o education_n and_o it_o may_v be_v out_o of_o some_o conviction_n they_o have_v of_o their_o necessity_n but_o many_o there_o be_v who_o in_o the_o way_n they_o choose_v and_o be_v please_v withal_o be_v diligent_a in_o their_o observance_n and_o that_o with_o great_a delight_n who_o yet_o give_v no_o evidence_n of_o the_o spiritual_a renovation_n of_o their_o mind_n yea_o the_o way_n whereby_o some_o express_v their_o devotion_n in_o they_o be_v superstitious_a and_o idolatrous_a be_v inconsistent_a with_o that_o or_o any_o other_o save_v grace_n this_o therefore_o we_o must_v diligent_o inquire_v into_o or_o search_v into_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n of_o man_n delight_n in_o divine_a worship_n according_a unto_o their_o conviction_n of_o the_o way_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o continue_v in_o their_o mind_n altogether_o unrenewed_a and_o 1_o man_n may_v be_v great_o affect_v with_o the_o outward_a part_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o performance_n thereof_o who_o have_v no_o delight_n in_o what_o be_v internal_a real_a and_o spiritual_a therein_o joh._n 5.35_o he_o be_v a_o burn_a and_o a_o shine_a light_n and_o you_o be_v willing_a for_o a_o season_n to_o rejoice_v in_o this_o light_n so_o many_o be_v delight_v in_o the_o preach_n of_o ezekiel_n because_o of_o his_o eloquence_n and_o elegancy_n of_o his_o parable_n chap._n 33.31_o 32._o this_o give_v they_o both_o delight_n and_o diligence_n in_o hear_v whereon_o they_o call_v themselves_o the_o people_n of_o god_n though_o they_o continue_v to_o live_v in_o sin_n their_o heart_n go_v after_o covetousness_n the_o same_o may_v befall_v many_o at_o present_a with_o reference_n unto_o the_o spiritual_a gift_n of_o those_o by_o who_o the_o word_n be_v dispense_v i_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o man_n may_v be_v more_o delight_v more_o satisfy_v with_o the_o gift_n the_o preach_a of_o one_o than_o another_o and_o yet_o be_v sincere_a in_o their_o delight_n in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n for_o they_o may_v find_v more_o spiritual_a advantage_n thereby_o than_o by_o the_o gift_n of_o other_o and_o thing_n so_o prepare_v as_o to_o be_v suit_v unto_o their_o edification_n more_o than_o elsewhere_o but_o that_o which_o at_o present_a we_o insist_v on_o have_v respect_n only_o unto_o some_o outward_a circumstance_n please_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n 2_o tim._n 2.3_o 4._o this_o be_v principal_o evident_a under_o the_o old_a testament_n while_o they_o have_v carnal_a ordinance_n and_o a_o worldly_a sanctuary_n oft_o time_n under_o that_o dispensation_n the_o people_n be_v give_v up_o unto_o all_o sort_n of_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n and_o when_o they_o be_v not_o so_o yet_o be_v the_o body_n of_o they_o carnal_a and_o unholy_a as_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o whole_a tract_n of_o god_n deal_n with_o they_o by_o his_o prophet_n and_o in_o his_o providence_n yet_o have_v they_o great_a delight_n in_o the_o outward_a solemnity_n of_o their_o worship_n place_v all_o their_o trust_n of_o acceptance_n with_o god_n therein_o they_o who_o do_v true_o and_o real_o believe_v look_v through_o they_o all_o unto_o christ_n who_o they_o do_v foresignify_v without_o which_o the_o thing_n be_v a_o yoke_n unto_o they_o and_o a_o burden_n almost_o insupportable_a act._n 15._o but_o those_o who_o be_v carnal_a delight_v in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o and_o for_o their_o sake_n reject_v he_o who_o be_v the_o life_n and_o substance_n of_o they_o all_o and_o this_o prove_v the_o great_a mean_n of_o the_o apostasy_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n also_o for_o to_o maintain_v some_o appearance_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n man_n introduce_v carnal_a incitation_n of_o they_o into_o evangelical_n worship_n such_o as_o sing_v with_o music_n and_o pompous_a ceremony_n for_o they_o find_v such_o thing_n needful_a to_o reconcile_v the_o worship_n of_o god_n unto_o their_o mind_n and_o affection_n and_o through_o they_o they_o appear_v to_o have_v great_a delight_n therein_o can_v some_o man_n but_o in_o their_o thought_n separate_v divine_a service_n from_o that_o outward_a order_n those_o method_n of_o variety_n show_v and_o melody_n wherewith_o they_o be_v affect_v they_o will_v have_v no_o delight_n in_o it_o but_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o must_v be_v endure_v how_o can_v it_o be_v otherwise_o conceive_v of_o among_o the_o papist_n they_o will_v with_o much_o earnestness_n many_o evidence_n of_o devotion_n sometime_o with_o difficulty_n and_o danger_n repair_v unto_o their_o solemn_a worship_n and_o yet_o when_o they_o be_v present_a understand_v not_o one_o word_n whereby_o their_o mind_n may_v be_v excite_v unto_o the_o real_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n only_a order_n ceremony_n music_n and_o other_o incentives_n of_o carnal_a affection_n make_v great_a impression_n on_o they_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v be_v not_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n yea_o if_o those_o in_o who_o they_o be_v shall_v be_v engage_v in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o they_o will_v find_v they_o mean_n of_o divert_v their_o mind_n from_o the_o proper_a work_n of_o divine_a worship_n rather_o than_o a_o advantage_n therein_o it_o will_v appear_v so_o unto_o themselves_o unless_o they_o
all_o the_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o spiritual_a judgement_n as_o well_o as_o natural_a affection_n and_o i_o do_v not_o understand_v how_o a_o man_n can_v be_v a_o sincere_a believer_n unto_o who_o sin_n be_v not_o the_o great_a burden_n and_o sorrow_n wherefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n it_o belong_v unto_o the_o true_a notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o it_o be_v a_o state_n wherein_o we_o shall_v be_v eternal_o free_v from_o sin_n and_o all_o the_o concernment_n of_o it_o but_o only_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o christ_n by_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o he_o that_o true_o hate_v sin_n and_o abhor_v it_o who_o principal_a desire_n and_o design_n of_o life_n be_v to_o be_v free_v from_o it_o so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v possible_a who_o walk_v in_o self_n abasement_n through_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o many_o disappointment_n when_o he_o hope_v it_o shall_v act_v in_o he_o no_o more_o can_v as_o i_o judge_v but_o frequent_o betake_v himself_o for_o refreshment_n unto_o thought_n of_o that_o state_n wherein_o he_o shall_v be_v free_v from_o it_o and_o triumph_n over_o it_o unto_o eternity_n this_o be_v a_o notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v easy_o apprehend_v and_o fix_v on_o the_o mind_n which_o we_o may_v dwell_v upon_o unto_o the_o great_a advantage_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o our_o soul_n frequent_a thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o heaven_n under_o this_o notion_n do_v argue_v a_o man_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o it_o be_v a_o convince_a evidence_n that_o sin_n be_v a_o burden_n unto_o he_o that_o he_o belong_v to_o be_v deliver_v from_o it_o and_o all_o its_o consequent_n that_o no_o thought_n be_v more_o welcome_a unto_o he_o than_o those_o of_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o and_o although_o man_n be_v trouble_v about_o their_o sin_n and_o will_v desirous_o be_v free_v from_o they_o so_o far_o as_o they_o perplex_v their_o mind_n and_o make_v their_o conscience_n uneasy_a yet_o if_o they_o be_v not_o much_o in_o the_o prospect_n of_o this_o relief_n if_o they_o find_v not_o refreshment_n in_o it_o i_o fear_v their_o trouble_n be_v not_o such_o as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v wherefore_o when_o man_n can_v so_o wrangle_v and_o wrestle_v with_o their_o conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o yet_o take_v up_o the_o best_a of_o their_o relief_n in_o hope_n that_o it_o will_v be_v better_o with_o they_o at_o some_o time_n or_o other_o in_o this_o world_n without_o long_a desire_n after_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o they_o can_v give_v no_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v it_o be_v quite_o otherwise_o with_o sincere_a believer_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o duty_n the_o consideration_n of_o the_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n of_o the_o purity_n and_o holiness_n of_o that_o good_a spirit_n that_o dwell_v in_o they_o of_o the_o light_n grace_n and_o mercy_n which_o they_o have_v attain_v through_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v those_o which_o make_v the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n most_o grievous_a and_o burdensome_a unto_o they_o this_o be_v that_o which_o even_o break_v their_o heart_n and_o make_v some_o of_o they_o go_v mourn_v all_o the_o day_n long_o namely_o that_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o which_o alone_a god_n hate_v shall_v be_v find_v in_o they_o or_o be_v remain_v with_o they_o it_o be_v in_o this_o condition_n a_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v if_o together_o with_o watchful_a endeavour_n for_o the_o universal_a mortification_n of_o sin_n and_o utter_a excision_n of_o it_o both_o root_n and_o branch_n they_o constant_o add_v these_o thought_n of_o that_o bless_a state_n wherein_o they_o shall_v be_v absolute_o and_o eternal_o free_v from_o all_o sin_n with_o refreshment_n delight_n and_o complacency_n these_o thing_n belong_v unto_o our_o direction_n for_o the_o fix_v of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n on_o thing_n above_o this_o the_o mean_a and_o weak_a person_n who_o have_v the_o least_o spark_n of_o sincerity_n and_o grace_n be_v capable_a of_o apprehend_v and_o able_a to_o practice_v and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o the_o sense_n they_o have_v of_o the_o evil_a of_o sin_n will_v put_v they_o on_o every_o day_n if_o they_o shut_v not_o their_o eye_n against_o the_o light_n of_o the_o refreshment_n that_o be_v in_o it_o let_v they_o who_o can_v arise_v in_o their_o mind_n unto_o fix_a and_o stable_a thought_n of_o any_o other_o notion_n of_o these_o invisible_a thing_n dwell_v on_o this_o consideration_n of_o they_o wherein_o they_o will_v find_v no_o small_a spiritual_a advantage_n and_o refreshment_n unto_o their_o soul_n 2._o as_o unto_o the_o positive_a part_n of_o this_o glorious_a future_a state_n the_o thought_n and_o apprehension_n of_o man_n be_v very_o various_a and_o that_o we_o may_v know_v as_o well_o what_o to_o avoid_v as_o what_o to_o embrace_v we_o shall_v a_o little_a reflect_v on_o some_o of_o they_o 1._o many_o be_v able_a to_o entertain_v no_o rational_a conception_n about_o a_o future_a state_n of_o blessedness_n and_o glory_n no_o notion_n wherein_o either_o faith_n or_o reason_n be_v concern_v imagination_n they_o have_v of_o something_o that_o be_v great_a and_o glorious_a but_o what_o it_o be_v they_o know_v not_o no_o wonder_n if_o such_o person_n have_v no_o delight_n in_o no_o use_n of_o thought_n of_o heaven_n when_o their_o imagination_n have_v fluctuate_v up_o and_o down_o in_o all_o uncertainty_n for_o a_o while_n they_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o nothing_o glorious_a and_o therefore_o desirable_a they_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o it_o must_v be_v but_o nothing_o can_v be_v so_o unto_o they_o but_o what_o be_v suitable_a unto_o their_o present_a disposition_n inclination_n and_o principle_n and_o hereof_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o true_a spiritual_a glory_n of_o heaven_n or_o in_o the_o eternal_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n these_o thing_n be_v not_o suit_v unto_o the_o will_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o of_o the_o flesh_n and_o therefore_o they_o can_v rise_v up_o unto_o any_o constant_a desire_n of_o they_o hence_o to_o please_v themselves_o they_o begin_v to_o imagine_v what_o be_v not_o but_o whereas_o what_o be_v true_o heaven_n please_v they_o not_o and_o what_o do_v please_v they_o be_v not_o heaven_n nor_o there_o to_o be_v find_v they_o seldom_o or_o never_o endeavour_v in_o good_a earnest_n to_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o it_o it_o be_v well_o if_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o the_o future_a state_n and_o eternal_a glory_n do_v not_o exceed_o prejudice_n believer_n themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o meditation_n about_o they_o they_o have_v nothing_o fix_v or_o state_v in_o their_o mind_n which_o they_o can_v betake_v themselves_o unto_o in_o their_o thought_n when_o they_o will_v contemplate_v about_o they_o and_o by_o the_o way_n whatever_o do_v divert_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o the_o power_n and_o life_n of_o spiritual_a worship_n as_o do_v all_o pompous_a solemnity_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o do_v great_o hinder_v they_o as_o unto_o right_a conception_n of_o our_o future_a state_n there_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n give_v unto_o the_o saint_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n but_o whereas_o they_o be_v oblige_v unto_o a_o worship_n that_o be_v carnal_a and_o outward_o pompous_a they_o never_o have_v clear_a and_o distinct_a apprehension_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o glory_n for_o life_n and_o immortality_n be_v bring_v to_o light_n by_o the_o gospel_n wherefore_o although_o no_o man_n live_a can_v see_v or_o find_v out_o the_o infinite_a riches_n of_o eternal_a glory_n yet_o be_v it_o the_o duty_n of_o all_o to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o in_o general_a so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v have_v fix_v thought_n of_o it_o love_n unto_o it_o earnest_n desire_v after_o it_o all_o under_o its_o own_o true_a and_o proper_a notion_n 2._o so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o mankind_n as_o the_o mahometan_n unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v all_o the_o principal_a and_o most_o desirable_a part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o inhabit_v and_o possess_v do_v conceive_v the_o state_n of_o future_a blessedness_n to_o consist_v in_o the_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o their_o sensual_a lust_n and_o pleasure_n a_o evidence_n this_o be_v that_o the_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v have_v no_o power_n or_o efficacy_n on_o their_o mind_n to_o change_v they_o from_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n or_o place_v their_o happiness_n in_o fulfil_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o flesh._n it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o enlighten_v their_o mind_n to_o discern_v a_o beauty_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n nor_o excite_v their_o affection_n unto_o the_o love_n of_o they_o nor_o free_v the_o soul_n
think_v to_o express_v their_o love_n and_o conformity_n unto_o he_o they_o will_v have_v image_n of_o he_o which_o they_o will_v embrace_v adore_v and_o bedew_v with_o their_o tear_n they_o will_v have_v crucifix_n as_o they_o call_v they_o which_o they_o will_v carry_v about_o they_o and_o wear_v next_o unto_o their_o heart_n as_o if_o they_o resolve_v to_o lodge_v christ_n always_o in_o their_o bosom_n they_o will_v go_v in_o pilgrimage_n to_o the_o place_n where_o he_o die_v and_o rise_v again_o through_o a_o thousand_o danger_n and_o purchase_v a_o feign_a chip_n of_o a_o tree_n whereon_o he_o suffer_v at_o the_o price_n of_o all_o they_o have_v in_o the_o world_n they_o will_v endeavour_v by_o long_a thoughtfulness_n fast_n and_o watch_n to_o cast_v their_o soul_n into_o rapture_n and_o ecstasy_n wherein_o they_o fancy_v themselves_o in_o his_o presence_n they_o come_v at_o last_o to_o make_v themselves_o like_o he_o in_o get_v impression_n of_o wound_n on_o their_o side_n their_o hand_n and_o foot_n unto_o all_o these_o thing_n and_o sundry_a other_o of_o a_o alike_a nature_n and_o tendency_n do_v superstition_n abuse_v and_o corrupt_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o a_o pretence_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o truth_n for_o there_o be_v no_o more_o certain_a gospel_n truth_n than_o this_o that_o believer_n ought_v continual_o to_o contemplate_v on_o christ_n by_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o their_o thought_n and_o affection_n and_o that_o thereby_o they_o be_v change_v and_o transform_v into_o his_o image_n 2_o cor._n 3.18_o and_o we_o be_v not_o to_o forego_v our_o duty_n because_o other_o man_n have_v be_v mistake_v in_o they_o nor_o part_n with_o practical_a fundamental_a principle_n of_o religion_n because_o they_o have_v be_v abuse_v by_o superstition_n but_o we_o may_v see_v herein_o how_o dangerous_a it_o be_v to_o depart_v in_o any_o thing_n from_o the_o conduct_n of_o scripture_n light_n and_o rule_n when_o for_o want_v thereof_o the_o best_a and_o most_o noble_a endeavour_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n even_o to_o love_n christ_n and_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o he_o do_v issue_n in_o provocation_n of_o the_o high_a nature_n pray_v therefore_o that_o you_o may_v be_v keep_v unto_o the_o truth_n in_o all_o thing_n by_o a_o diligent_a attendance_n unto_o the_o only_a rule_n thereof_o and_o conscientious_a subjection_n of_o soul_n unto_o the_o authority_n of_o god_n in_o it_o for_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o suffer_v our_o affection_n to_o be_v entangle_v with_o the_o paint_n or_o artificial_a beauty_n of_o any_o way_n or_o mean_n of_o give_v our_o love_n unto_o christ_n which_o be_v not_o warrant_v by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n yet_o i_o must_v say_v that_o i_o have_v rather_o be_v among_o they_o who_o in_o the_o act_n of_o their_o love_n and_o affection_n unto_o christ_n do_v fall_v into_o some_o irregularity_n and_o excess_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o express_v it_o provide_v their_o worship_n of_o he_o be_v neither_o superstitious_a nor_o idolatrous_a than_o among_o those_o who_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v christian_n do_v almost_o disavow_v their_o have_v any_o thought_n of_o or_o affection_n unto_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n but_o there_o be_v no_o need_n that_o we_o shall_v foolish_o run_v into_o either_o of_o these_o extreme_n god_n have_v in_o the_o scripture_n sufficient_o provide_v against_o they_o both_o he_o have_v both_o show_v we_o the_o necessity_n of_o our_o diligent_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n on_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n and_o have_v limit_v out_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v so_o do_v and_o let_v our_o design_n be_v what_o they_o will_v where_o in_o any_o thing_n we_o depart_v from_o his_o prescription_n we_o be_v not_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o so_o be_v sure_a to_o lose_v all_o that_o we_o do_v wherefore_o two_o thing_n be_v require_v that_o we_o may_v thus_o think_v of_o christ_n and_o meditate_v on_o he_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n 1_o that_o the_o mean_n of_o bring_v he_o to_o mind_n be_v what_o god_n have_v promise_v and_o appoint_v 2._o that_o the_o continue_a proposal_n of_o he_o as_o the_o object_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n be_v of_o the_o same_o kind_n for_o both_o these_o end_n the_o superstitious_a mind_n of_o man_n invent_v the_o way_n of_o image_n and_o crucifix_n with_o their_o appurtenance_n before_o mention_v and_o this_o render_v all_o their_o devotion_n a_o abomination_n that_o which_o tend_v unto_o these_o end_n among_o believer_n be_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o word_n will_v you_o then_o think_v of_o christ_n as_o you_o ought_v take_v these_o two_o direction_n 1._o pray_o that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n may_v abide_v with_o you_o continual_o to_o mind_n you_o of_o he_o which_o he_o will_v do_v in_o all_o in_o who_o he_o do_v abide_v for_o it_o belong_v unto_o his_o office_n 2._o for_o more_o fix_v thought_n and_o meditation_n take_v some_o express_a place_n of_o scripture_n wherein_o he_o be_v set_v forth_o and_o propose_v either_o in_o his_o person_n office_n or_o grace_n unto_o you_o gal._n 3.1_o 4._o this_o duty_n lie_v at_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o that_o bless_a communion_n and_o intercourse_n that_o be_v between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n this_o i_o confess_v be_v despise_v by_o some_o and_o the_o very_a notion_n of_o it_o esteem_v ridiculous_a but_o they_o do_v therein_o no_o less_o than_o renounce_v christianity_n and_o turn_v the_o lord_n christ_n into_o a_o idol_n that_o neither_o know_v see_v nor_o hear_v but_o i_o speak_v unto_o they_o who_o be_v not_o utter_a stranger_n unto_o the_o life_n of_o faith_n who_o know_v not_o what_o religion_n be_v unless_o they_o have_v real_a spiritual_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n thereby_o consider_v this_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v in_o particular_a exemplify_v in_o the_o book_n of_o canticle_n there_o be_v not_o one_o instance_n of_o it_o to_o be_v find_v which_o do_v not_o suppose_v a_o continual_a thoughtfulness_n of_o he_o and_o in_o answer_n unto_o they_o as_o they_o be_v act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n wherein_o he_o be_v delight_v do_v he_o by_o his_o spirit_n insinuate_v into_o our_o mind_n and_o heart_n a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o love_n kindness_n and_o relation_n unto_o we_o the_o great_a variety_n wherein_o these_o thing_n be_v mutual_o carry_v on_o between_o he_o and_o the_o church_n the_o singular_a endearment_n which_o ensue_v thereon_o and_o bless_a estate_n in_o rest_n and_o complacency_n do_v make_v up_o the_o substance_n of_o that_o holy_a discourse_n no_o thought_n then_o of_o christ_n proceed_v from_o faith_n accompany_v with_o love_n and_o delight_n shall_v be_v lose_v they_o that_o sow_v this_o seed_n shall_v return_v with_o their_o sheaf_n christ_n will_v meet_v they_o with_o gracious_a intimation_n of_o his_o acceptance_n of_o they_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o return_v a_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o love_n unto_o they_o he_o never_o will_v be_v he_o never_o be_v behind_o with_o any_o poor_a soul_n in_o return_n of_o love_n those_o gracious_a and_o bless_a promise_n which_o he_o have_v make_v of_o come_v unto_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o of_o make_v his_o abode_n with_o they_o and_o of_o sup_v with_o they_o all_o expression_n of_o a_o gracious_a presence_n and_o intimate_a communion_n do_v all_o depend_v on_o this_o duty_n wherefore_o we_o may_v consider_v three_o thing_n concern_v these_o thought_n of_o christ._n 1._o that_o they_o be_v exceed_o acceptable_a unto_o he_o as_o the_o best_a pledge_n of_o our_o cordial_a affection_n cant._n 2.14_o o_o my_o dove_n that_o be_v in_o the_o cleft_n of_o the_o rock_n in_o the_o secret_a place_n of_o the_o stair_n let_v i_o see_v thy_o countenance_n let_v i_o hear_v thy_o voice_n for_o sweet_a be_v thy_o voice_n and_o thy_o countenance_n be_v comely_a when_o a_o soul_n through_o manifold_a discouragement_n and_o despondency_n withdraw_v and_o as_o it_o be_v hide_n itself_o from_o he_o he_o call_v to_o see_v a_o poor_a weep_n blubber_a face_n and_o to_o hear_v a_o break_a voice_n that_o scarce_o go_v beyond_o sigh_n and_o groan_n 2._o these_o thought_n be_v the_o only_a mean_n whereby_o we_o comply_v with_o the_o gracious_a intimation_n of_o his_o love_n mention_v before_o by_o they_o do_v we_o hear_v his_o knock_n know_v his_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n to_o give_v he_o entrance_n that_o he_o may_v abide_v and_o sup_v with_o we_o sometime_o indeed_o the_o soul_n be_v surprise_v into_o act_n of_o gracious_a communion_n with_o christ_n cant._n 6.11_o but_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v unless_o we_o abide_v in_o those_o way_n and_o mean_n which_o prepare_v
not_o prosper_v we_o may_v therefore_o do_v well_o to_o consider_v that_o the_o principal_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v sanctify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o all_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n and_o obtain_v the_o benefit_n of_o they_o to_o our_o own_o soul_n be_v by_o a_o conscientious_a approach_n unto_o they_o with_o a_o holy_a desire_n and_o design_n to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n on_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o be_v help_v and_o guide_v therein_o by_o they_o to_o be_v under_o a_o efficacious_a influence_n from_o this_o design_n be_v the_o best_a preparation_n for_o any_o duty_n so_o david_n express_v his_o delight_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n how_o amiable_a be_v thy_o tabernacle_n o_o lord_n of_o host_n my_o soul_n long_v yea_o even_o faint_v for_o the_o court_n of_o the_o lord_n my_o heart_n and_o my_o flesh_n cry_v out_o for_o the_o live_a god_n psal._n 84.1_o 2._o he_o long_v for_o the_o tabernacle_n and_o the_o court_n of_o it_o but_o it_o be_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n himself_o the_o live_a god_n that_o he_o desire_v and_o seek_v after_o this_o be_v that_o which_o make_v he_o so_o servant_n in_o his_o desire_n after_o those_o ordinance_n of_o god_n so_o he_o express_v it_o psal._n 63.2_o to_o see_v thy_o power_n and_o thy_o glory_n so_o as_o i_o have_v see_v thou_o in_o the_o sanctuary_n david_n have_v have_v great_a communion_n with_o and_o delight_n in_o god_n by_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o solemn_a duty_n of_o his_o worship_n and_o this_o be_v that_o which_o inflame_v he_o with_o desire_n after_o renew_a opportunity_n unto_o the_o same_o end_n second_o this_o design_n be_v not_o general_a unactive_a useless_a and_o slothful_a but_o such_o person_n diligent_o endeavour_v in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o ordinance_n and_o attendance_n unto_o they_o to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o these_o grace_n they_o have_v not_o only_o a_o antecedent_n design_n to_o be_v so_o but_o a_o diligent_a actual_a endeavour_n after_o it_o not_o suffer_v their_o mind_n by_o any_o thing_n to_o be_v divert_v from_o the_o pursuit_n of_o that_o design_n ecc._n 5.1_o whatever_o be_v not_o quicken_v and_o enliven_v hereby_o they_o esteem_v utter_o lose_v neither_o outward_a administration_n nor_o order_n will_v give_v they_o satisfaction_n when_o these_o thing_n be_v want_v in_o themselves_o without_o the_o internal_a act_n of_o the_o life_n of_o faith_n external_a administration_n of_o ordinance_n of_o worship_n be_v but_o dead_a thing_n nor_o can_v any_o believer_n obtain_v real_a satisfaction_n in_o they_o or_o refreshment_n by_o they_o without_o a_o inward_a experience_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o if_o we_o be_v wise_a we_o shall_v continual_o attend_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o a_o watchful_a christian_a will_v be_v careful_a lest_o he_o lose_v any_o one_o duty_n by_o take_v up_o the_o carcase_n of_o it_o and_o the_o danger_n of_o so_o do_v be_v not_o small_a our_o affection_n be_v renew_v but_o in_o part_n and_o as_o they_o be_v still_o liable_a to_o be_v divert_v and_o seduce_v from_o spirituality_n in_o duty_n even_o by_o thing_n earthly_a and_o carnal_a through_o the_o corruption_n that_o remain_v in_o they_o so_o there_o be_v a_o disposition_n abide_v in_o they_o to_o be_v please_v with_o those_o external_a thing_n in_o religious_a duty_n which_o other_o as_o we_o have_v show_v before_o who_o be_v no_o way_n gracious_o renew_v do_v satisfy_v themselves_o withal_o the_o grace_n and_o oratory_n of_o the_o speaker_n in_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n especial_o in_o these_o day_n wherein_o the_o foppery_n of_o fine_a language_n even_o in_o sacred_a thing_n be_v so_o much_o extol_v the_o order_n and_o circumstance_n of_o other_o duty_n with_o inclination_n and_o love_n unto_o a_o party_n be_v apt_a to_o insinuate_v themselves_o with_o great_a complacency_n into_o our_o affection_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v unrenewed_a and_o these_o thing_n discover_v the_o true_a ground_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n be_v so_o useless_a as_o they_o be_v to_o many_o who_o seem_v to_o attend_v unto_o they_o with_o diligence_n they_o may_v be_v refer_v unto_o these_o three_o head_n 1_o they_o do_v not_o come_v unto_o they_o as_o the_o mean_v appoint_v of_o god_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o christ_n so_o as_o to_o make_v it_o their_o design_n in_o their_o approach_n to_o they_o without_o which_o all_o that_o be_v speak_v of_o advantage_n in_o and_o by_o other_o duty_n be_v utter_o lose_v 2_o they_o do_v not_o in_o and_o under_o they_o labour_n to_o stir_v up_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o their_o due_a exercise_n 3_o they_o suffer_v their_o mind_n to_o be_v divert_v from_o the_o exercise_n of_o these_o grace_n partly_o by_o occasional_a temptation_n partly_o by_o attendance_n unto_o what_o be_v outward_a only_o in_o the_o ordinance_n themselves_o spiritual_a affection_n find_v no_o place_n of_o rest_n in_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n such_o proposal_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n of_o his_o will_n and_o their_o own_o duty_n as_o may_v draw_v out_o their_o faith_n love_n godly_a fear_n and_o delight_n into_o their_o due_a exercise_n be_v that_o which_o they_o inquire_v after_o and_o acquiesce_v in_o two_o thing_n alone_o do_v faith_n regard_n in_o all_o duty_n of_o worship_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a administration_n of_o it_o the_o one_o absolute_o the_o other_o comparative_o both_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o end_v mention_v or_o the_o exercise_n growth_n and_o increase_v of_o grace_n in_o we_o the_o first_o be_v that_o they_o may_v be_v of_o divine_a appointment_n where_o their_o original_a and_o observance_n be_v resolve_v into_o divine_a authority_n there_o and_o there_o alone_o will_v they_o have_v a_o divine_a efficacy_n in_o all_o these_o thing_n faith_n have_v regard_n to_o nothing_o but_o divine_a precept_n and_o promise_n whatever_o have_v regard_n to_o any_o thing_n else_o be_v not_o faith_n but_o fancy_n and_o therefore_o these_o uncommanded_a duty_n in_o religion_n which_o so_o abound_v in_o the_o papal_a church_n as_o that_o if_o not_o the_o whole_a yet_o all_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o their_o worship_n consist_v in_o they_o be_v such_o as_o in_o who_o discharge_v it_o be_v impossible_a faith_n shall_v be_v in_o a_o due_a exercise_n that_o which_o it_o have_v comparative_a respect_n unto_o be_v the_o spiritual_a gift_n of_o they_o unto_o who_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o public_a worship_n of_o the_o church_n be_v commit_v with_o respect_n unto_o they_o believer_n may_v have_v more_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o one_o than_o of_o another_o as_o be_v touch_v before_o but_o this_o be_v not_o because_o one_o be_v more_o learned_a than_o another_o or_o more_o elegant_a than_o another_o have_v more_o ability_n of_o speech_n than_o another_o or_o fervency_n in_o utterance_n than_o another_o be_v more_o fervent_a or_o earnest_n in_o his_o delivery_n but_o because_o they_o find_v the_o gift_n of_o one_o more_o suit_v and_o more_o effectual_a to_o stir_v up_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o a_o holy_a exercise_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o heart_n than_o what_o they_o find_v in_o some_o other_o hence_o they_o have_v a_o peculiar_a value_n for_o and_o delight_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o such_o person_n especial_o when_o they_o can_v enjoy_v it_o in_o due_a order_n and_o without_o the_o offence_n of_o other_o and_o minister_n that_o be_v wise_a will_v in_o holy_a administration_n neglect_v all_o other_o thing_fw-mi and_o attend_v unto_o this_o alone_a how_o they_o may_v be_v helpful_a unto_o the_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o joy_n of_o believer_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v the_o object_n of_o their_o ministry_n this_o be_v the_o first_o reason_n and_o ground_n whereon_o affection_n spiritually-renewed_n cleave_v unto_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n with_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n namely_o because_o they_o be_v the_o mean_v appoint_v and_o bless_a of_o god_n for_o the_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o faith_n and_o love_n with_o a_o experience_n of_o their_o efficacy_n unto_o that_o end_n second_o the_o second_o be_v because_o they_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o the_o communication_n of_o a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n and_o supply_v of_o divine_a grace_n unto_o the_o soul_n of_o they_o that_o do_v believe_v so_o far_o as_o our_o affection_n be_v renew_v this_o be_v the_o most_o principal_a attractive_a to_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n and_o complacency_n they_o be_v as_o be_v observe_v before_o the_o way_n of_o our_o approach_n unto_o god_n now_o we_o do_v not_o draw_v nigh_o to_o god_n as_o himself_o speak_v as_o a_o dry_a hearth_n or_o a_o barren_a
warn_v it_o be_v and_o this_o arise_v from_o hence_o that_o they_o have_v not_o as_o yet_o be_v overtake_v with_o any_o enormous_a sin_n which_o have_v fill_v their_o conscience_n with_o terror_n and_o disquietment_n but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n also_o for_o every_o decay_n be_v dangerous_a especial_o such_o as_o the_o mind_n be_v ready_a to_o plead_v for_o and_o to_o countenance_v itself_o in_o second_o they_o be_v prone_a to_o suppose_v that_o this_o decay_n do_v not_o arise_v from_o themselves_o and_o the_o evil_a of_o their_o own_o heart_n but_o from_o their_o circumstance_n business_n present_a occasion_n and_o state_n of_o life_n which_o when_o they_o be_v free_v from_o they_o will_v at_o least_o return_n unto_o their_o former_a love_n and_o delight_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n also_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o rule_n heb._n 3.12_o let_v man_n circumstance_n and_o occasion_n of_o life_n be_v what_o they_o will_v all_o their_o departure_n from_o god_n be_v from_o a_o evil_a heart_n of_o unbelief_n three_o they_o judge_v it_o no_o hard_a matter_n to_o retrieve_v themselves_o out_o of_o this_o state_n but_o that_o which_o they_o can_v easy_o do_v when_o there_o be_v a_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o it_o but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n also_o recovery_n from_o backslide_v be_v the_o hard_a task_n in_o christian_a religion_n and_o which_o few_o make_v either_o comfortable_a or_o honourable_a work_n of_o in_o this_o state_n i_o say_v man_n be_v apt_a by_o such_o false_a reason_n to_o deceive_v themselves_o unto_o their_o eternal_a ruin_n which_o make_v the_o consideration_n of_o it_o the_o more_o necessary_a wherefore_o i_o say_v last_o upon_o the_o whole_a that_o who_o so_o find_v themselves_o under_o the_o power_n of_o this_o wretched_a frame_n who_o be_v sensible_a in_o themselves_o or_o at_o least_o make_v it_o evident_a unto_o other_o that_o they_o be_v under_o a_o decay_n in_o their_o spiritual_a condition_n if_o they_o rest_v in_o that_o state_n without_o groan_v labour_a endeavour_v for_o deliverance_n from_o it_o they_o can_v have_v no_o well_o ground_v hope_n in_o themselves_o of_o life_n and_o immortality_n yea_o they_o be_v in_o those_o path_n which_o go_v down_o unto_o the_o chamber_n of_o death_n i_o can_v let_v this_o pass_n without_o something_o of_o advice_n unto_o they_o who_o find_v themselves_o under_o such_o decay_n be_v sensible_a of_o they_o and_o will_v be_v deliver_v from_o they_o and_o i_o shall_v give_v it_o in_o a_o few_o word_n first_o remember_v former_a thing_n call_v to_o mind_n how_o it_o be_v with_o you_o in_o the_o spring_n and_o vigour_n of_o your_o affection_n and_o compare_v your_o present_a state_n enjoyment_n peace_n and_o quiet_a with_o what_o they_o be_v then_o this_o will_v be_v a_o great_a principle_n of_o return_n to_o god_n hos._n 2.7_o and_o to_o put_v a_o little_a weight_n upon_o it_o we_o may_v consider_v first_o god_n himself_o make_v it_o on_o his_o part_n a_o ground_n and_o reason_n of_o his_o return_n unto_o we_o in_o a_o way_n of_o mercy_n and_o of_o the_o continuance_n of_o his_o love_n jer._n 2.2_o even_o when_o a_o people_n be_v under_o manifold_a decay_n while_o yet_o they_o be_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o god_n covenant_n and_o mercy_n he_o will_v remember_v their_o first_o love_n with_o the_o fruit_n and_o act_n of_o it_o in_o trial_n and_o temptation_n which_o move_v his_o compassion_n towards_o they_o and_o the_o way_n to_o have_v god_n thus_o remember_v it_o be_v for_o we_o to_o remember_v with_o delight_n and_o longing_n of_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v with_o we_o as_o in_o those_o day_n of_o old_a when_o we_o have_v the_o love_n of_o espousal_n for_o god_n in_o christ_n jeremiah_n 31.18_o 19_o 20._o second_o it_o be_v the_o way_n whereby_o the_o saint_n of_o old_a have_v refresh_v and_o encourage_v themselves_o under_o their_o great_a despondency_n so_o do_v the_o psalmist_n in_o many_o place_n as_o for_o instance_n psal._n 42.6_o o_o my_o god_n my_o soul_n be_v cast_v down_o within_o i_o therefore_o will_v i_o remember_v thou_o from_o the_o land_n of_o jordan_n and_o of_o the_o hermonite_n from_o the_o hill_n missar_n david_n in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o persecution_n by_o saul_n when_o he_o wander_v up_o and_o down_o in_o desert_n wilderness_n and_o solitude_n have_v under_o his_o fear_n distress_n and_o exercise_n great_a holy_a spiritual_a communion_n with_o god_n as_o many_o of_o his_o psalm_n compose_v on_o such_o occasion_n do_v testify_v and_o the_o great_a his_o distress_n be_v the_o more_o fervent_a be_v his_o affection_n in_o all_o his_o address_n unto_o god_n and_o he_o be_v never_o in_o great_a than_o when_o he_o escape_v out_o of_o the_o cave_n at_o adullam_n and_o go_v thence_o unto_o mizpheh_n of_o moab_n to_o get_v shelter_n for_o his_o parent_n 1_o sam._n 22.13_o then_o be_v he_o in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o hermonite_n the_o hill_n hermon_n be_v the_o boundary_a eastward_o of_o the_o israelite_n possession_n next_o to_o moab_n deut._n 3.8_o 9_o there_o no_o doubt_n david_n have_v a_o bless_a exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o of_o all_o his_o affection_n towards_o god_n wherein_o his_o soul_n find_v great_a refreshment_n be_v now_o in_o great_a distress_n and_o disconsolation_n of_o spirit_n among_o other_o thing_n under_o a_o sense_n that_o god_n have_v forget_v he_o vers_n 9_o he_o call_v to_o mind_v the_o bless_a experience_n he_o have_v of_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o hermonite_n wherein_o he_o now_o find_v support_n and_o refreshment_n so_o at_o other_o time_n he_o call_v to_o remembrance_n the_o day_n of_o old_a and_o in_o they_o his_o song_n in_o the_o night_n or_o the_o sweet_a refreshment_n he_o have_v in_o spiritual_a converse_n with_o god_n in_o former_a time_n i_o have_v know_v one_o in_o the_o depth_n of_o distress_n and_o darkness_n of_o mind_n who_o go_v through_o temptation_n to_o destroy_v himself_o be_v relieve_v and_o deliver_v in_o the_o instant_n of_o ruin_n by_o a_o sudden_a remembrance_n that_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o in_o such_o a_o place_n he_o have_v pray_v fervent_o with_o the_o engagement_n of_o all_o his_o affection_n unto_o god_n wherefore_o you_o that_o be_v sensible_a of_o these_o decay_n or_o aught_o so_o to_o be_v take_v the_o advice_n of_o our_o saviour_n remember_v whence_o you_o be_v fall_v call_v to_o mind_n the_o former_a day_n consider_v if_o it_o be_v not_o better_o with_o you_o than_o now_o when_o in_o your_o lie_v down_o and_o your_o rise_n up_o you_o have_v many_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o they_o be_v sweet_a and_o precious_a unto_o your_o soul_n when_o you_o rejoice_v at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n when_o you_o have_v zeal_n for_o his_o glory_n delight_n in_o his_o worship_n and_o be_v glad_a when_o they_o say_v let_v we_o go_v to_o the_o house_n of_o god_n together_o when_o you_o pour_v forth_o your_o soul_n with_o freedom_n and_o enlarge_v affection_n before_o he_o and_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o visit_n and_o refreshment_n of_o his_o love_n remember_v what_o peace_n what_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n what_o joy_v you_o have_v while_o it_o be_v so_o with_o you_o and_o consider_v what_o you_o have_v get_v since_o you_o have_v forsake_v god_n in_o any_o measure_n or_o degree_n dare_v to_o deal_v plain_o with_o yourselves_o be_v not_o all_o wherein_o you_o have_v now_o to_o do_v with_o god_n either_o form_n custom_n and_o selfishness_n or_o attend_v with_o trouble_n disquietment_n and_o fear_n do_v you_o true_o know_v either_o how_o to_o live_v or_o how_o to_o die_v be_v you_o not_o sometime_o a_o terror_n unto_o yourselves_o it_o must_v be_v so_o unless_o you_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n what_o have_v all_o your_o lover_n do_v for_o you_o that_o you_o have_v entertain_v in_o the_o room_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n speak_v plain_o have_v they_o not_o defile_v you_o wound_v you_o weaken_v you_o and_o bring_v you_o into_o that_o condition_n that_o you_o know_v not_o what_o you_o be_v nor_o to_o who_o you_o do_v belong_v what_o be_v your_o thought_n when_o you_o be_v most_o awake_a when_o you_o be_v most_o yourselves_o do_v you_o not_o sometime_o part_v within_o yourselves_o and_o say_v o_o that_o it_o be_v with_o we_o as_o in_o former_a day_n and_o it_o you_o can_v be_v no_o way_n affect_v with_o the_o remembrance_n of_o former_a thing_n then_o one_o of_o these_o two_o great_a evil_n you_o be_v certain_o under_o for_o either_o 1_o you_o never_o have_v a_o true_a and_o real_a work_n on_o your_o soul_n whatever_o you_o profess_v and_o so_o never_o have_v true_a and_o real_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o any_o duty_n
unto_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n from_o which_o we_o be_v secure_v by_o this_o peace_n which_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a the_o first_o be_v offence_n there_o be_v nothing_o of_o who_o danger_n we_o be_v more_o warn_v in_o the_o gospel_n than_o of_o offence_n wo_n to_o the_o world_n say_v our_o saviour_n because_o of_o offence_n all_o age_n all_o time_n and_o season_n be_v fill_v with_o they_o and_o they_o prove_v pernicious_a and_o destructive_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o many_o such_o be_v the_o scandalous_a division_n that_o be_v among_o christian_n the_o endless_a difference_n of_o opinion_n and_o diversity_n of_o practice_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n the_o fall_v and_o sin_n of_o professor_n the_o fearful_a end_n of_o some_o of_o they_o the_o reproach_n that_o be_v cast_v on_o all_o that_o engage_v into_o any_o peculiar_a way_n of_o holiness_n and_o strictness_n of_o life_n with_o other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n whereby_o the_o soul_n of_o innumerable_a person_n be_v disquiet_v subvert_v or_o infect_v be_v to_o be_v reckon_v unto_o this_o head_n against_o any_o hurtful_a or_o noxious_a influence_n on_o our_o mind_n from_o these_o thing_n against_o disquietment_n dejection_n of_o spirit_n and_o disconsolation_n be_v we_o secure_v by_o this_o peace_n so_o the_o psalmist_n assure_v we_o psal._n 119.165_o great_a peace_n have_v they_o that_o love_v thy_o law_n and_o nothing_o shall_v offend_v they_o the_o law_n or_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a way_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o will_n unto_o we_o and_o the_o only_a outward_a way_n and_o rule_n of_o our_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o wherefore_o to_o love_v the_o law_n be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o our_o be_v heavenly_a mind_a yea_o virtual_o that_o which_o comprehend_v the_o whole_a for_o such_o as_o do_v so_o nothing_o none_o of_o the_o thing_n before_o mention_v nor_o any_o other_o of_o the_o like_a nature_n shall_v be_v a_o offence_n a_o stumble_a block_n or_o cause_n of_o fall_v into_o sin_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o they_o have_v such_o a_o experience_n in_o themselves_o of_o the_o truth_n power_n efficacy_n and_o holiness_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o that_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o man_n under_o a_o profession_n of_o it_o shall_v never_o be_v unto_o they_o a_o occasion_n of_o fall_v or_o be_v offend_v at_o christ._n and_o i_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o very_a evil_a frame_n of_o heart_n when_o man_n be_v concern_v in_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o some_o that_o have_v make_v profession_n whereby_o they_o be_v it_o may_v be_v damage_v in_o their_o outward_a concern_v so_o as_o that_o they_o be_v surprise_v into_o reflection_n on_o that_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v profess_v the_o same_o themselves_o 2_o the_o second_o be_v affliction_n persecution_n and_o suffering_n of_o all_o sort_n it_o be_v know_v by_o all_o it_o be_v well_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o well_o know_v what_o disquietment_n dejection_n and_o disconsolation_n these_o thing_n be_v apt_a to_o fill_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n withal_o what_o fear_n trouble_n sorrow_n they_o reflect_v upon_o they_o against_o all_o these_o effect_n of_o they_o this_o peace_n intend_v give_v we_o security_n it_o make_v we_o to_o preserve_v a_o peaceable_a yea_o a_o joyous_a life_n in_o our_o conflict_n with_o they_o see_v joh._n 16.33_o both_o these_o as_o here_o join_v together_o life_n and_o peace_n do_v comprise_v a_o holy_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n wherein_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n do_v find_v rest_n quietness_n refreshment_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o god_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o temptation_n affliction_n offence_n and_o suffering_n it_o be_v the_o soul_n composure_n of_o itself_o in_o god_n in_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n jesus_n so_o as_o not_o great_o to_o be_v put_v out_o of_o order_n to_o be_v cast_v down_o with_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v befall_v it_o but_o afford_v man_n cheerfulness_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o themselves_o though_o they_o walk_v sometime_o in_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n such_o person_n have_v that_o in_o they_o abide_v with_o they_o as_o will_v give_v they_o life_n and_o peace_n under_o all_o occurrence_n 2_o our_o next_o enquiry_n be_v how_o this_o spiritual_a mindedness_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n or_o what_o it_o contribute_v unto_o they_o how_o it_o produce_v the_o frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n so_o express_v and_o this_o it_o do_v several_a way_n 1_o it_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n on_o our_o part_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o it_o as_o shed_v abroad_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v the_o first_o and_o only_a foundation_n of_o all_o durable_a comfort_n such_o as_o will_v support_v and_o refresh_v we_o under_o all_o opposition_n and_o distress_n that_o be_v of_o life_n and_o peace_n in_o our_o soul_n in_o any_o condition_n this_o god_n communicate_v by_o a_o act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n for_o the_o most_o part_n without_o any_o preparation_n for_o it_o in_o ourselves_o he_o create_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o lip_n peace_n peace_n but_o although_o divine_a love_n be_v in_o itself_o unchangeable_a and_o always_o the_o same_o yet_o this_o sense_n of_o it_o may_v be_v lose_v as_o it_o be_v in_o david_n when_o he_o pray_v that_o god_n will_v restore_v unto_o he_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n psal._n 51.12_o and_o so_o many_o other_o have_v find_v it_o by_o woeful_a experience_n to_o insist_v upon_o all_o that_o be_v require_v on_o our_o part_n that_o we_o may_v retain_v a_o gracious_a refresh_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n after_o it_o be_v once_o grant_v unto_o we_o belong_v not_o unto_o my_o present_a purpose_n but_o this_o i_o say_v there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n wherein_o we_o be_v more_o concern_v for_o to_o be_v careful_a and_o diligent_a in_o than_o as_o unto_o what_o belong_v to_o that_o end_n for_o man_n who_o by_o a_o mere_a act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n have_v taste_v herein_o of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o have_v have_v the_o consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o it_o to_o be_v negligent_a in_o the_o keep_n and_o preserve_v it_o in_o their_o soul_n be_v a_o provocation_n that_o they_o will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o be_v sensible_a of_o there_o be_v nothing_o do_v more_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n than_o to_o have_v his_o especial_a work_n whereby_o he_o seal_v we_o unto_o the_o day_n of_o redemption_n neglect_v or_o despise_v and_o it_o argue_v a_o mighty_a prevalency_n of_o some_o corruption_n or_o temptation_n that_o shall_v cause_v man_n willing_o and_o by_o their_o own_o sloth_n to_o forfeit_v so_o inestimable_a a_o grace_n mercy_n and_o privilege_n and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o there_o be_v but_o few_o of_o we_o who_o have_v not_o reason_n to_o bewail_v our_o folly_n in_o every_o intimation_n of_o divine_a love_n be_v a_o inestimable_a jewel_n which_o if_o safe_o treasure_v up_o in_o our_o heart_n add_v unto_o our_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o be_v lose_v will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o another_o affect_v we_o with_o sorrow_n and_o i_o be_o afraid_a that_o many_o of_o we_o be_v very_o negligent_a herein_o unto_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o spiritual_n state_n many_o such_o intimation_n be_v give_v we_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n through_o the_o word_n which_o we_o take_v little_a notice_n of_o either_o we_o know_v not_o the_o voice_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o or_o do_v not_o hearken_v unto_o he_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n or_o refuse_v a_o compliance_n with_o he_o when_o we_o can_v but_o know_v that_o he_o speak_v unto_o we_o see_v cant._n 5.2_o 3._o or_o if_o we_o receive_v any_o impression_n of_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o they_o we_o quick_o lose_v they_o not_o know_v how_o much_o the_o life_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v concern_v therein_o and_o what_o use_n of_o they_o we_o may_v have_v in_o our_o follow_a temptation_n trial_n and_o duty_n now_o the_o great_a mean_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o only_a spring_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n unto_o our_o soul_n be_v this_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n this_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o the_o duty_n for_o 1_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n preserve_v of_o itself_o in_o a_o frame_n meet_v to_o receive_v and_o retain_v this_o sense_n of_o god_n love_n what_o other_o way_n can_v there_o be_v on_o our_o part_n but_o that_o our_o mind_n which_o be_v so_o to_o receive_v it_o and_o retain_v it_o be_v spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a always_o prepare_v for_o that_o holy_a converse_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o which_o he_o
carnal_o mind_v be_v death_n it_o be_v not_o meet_v it_o shall_v be_v any_o thing_n else_o that_o which_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n be_v under_o the_o curse_n of_o god_n in_o opposition_n hereunto_o it_o be_v affirm_v that_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v or_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n and_o these_o be_v the_o thing_n which_o we_o be_v particular_o to_o inquire_v into_o namely_o what_o be_v this_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n and_o then_o how_o it_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n 1._o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o context_n be_v evident_o use_v in_o a_o double_a sense_n as_o be_v usual_a where_o both_o the_o holy_a spirit_n himself_o and_o his_o work_n on_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v relate_v unto_o 1._o the_o person_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n himself_o or_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v intend_v by_o it_o v_o 9_o if_o so_o be_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n dwell_v in_o you_o and_o so_o also_o v._n 11._o the_o spirit_n of_o he_o that_o raise_v up_o jesus_n from_o the_o dead_a he_o be_v speak_v of_o as_o the_o principal_a efficient_a cause_n of_o all_o the_o spiritual_a mercy_n and_o benefit_n here_o and_o afterward_o insist_v on_o 2._o it_o be_v use_v for_o the_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n wrought_v in_o all_o that_o be_v regenerate_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o spirit_n be_v spirit_n joh._n 3.6_o it_o be_v most_o probable_a that_o the_o name_n spirit_n be_v here_o use_v in_o the_o latter_a sense_n not_o for_o the_o spirit-himself_a but_o for_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o spirit_n the_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n in_o they_o that_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v in_o its_o nature_n act_n inclination_n and_o operation_n oppose_v unto_o the_o flesh_n v_o 1.4_o 5_o but_o the_o flesh_n here_o intend_v be_v that_o inherent_a corrupt_a principle_n of_o deprave_a nature_n whence_o all_o evil_a action_n do_v proceed_v and_o wherewith_o the_o action_n of_o all_o evil_a man_n be_v vitiate_a the_o opposition_n between_o they_o be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o mention_a and_o declare_v by_o the_o apostle_n gal._n 5.17_o 18_o etc._n etc._n wherefore_o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o place_n be_v the_o holy_a vital_a principle_n of_o new_a obedience_n wrought_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n enable_v they_o to_o live_v unto_o god_n 2._o unto_o this_o spirit_n there_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d ascribe_v which_o as_o we_o have_v intimate_v be_v translate_v with_o great_a variety_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d be_v the_o principal_a power_n and_o act_n of_o the_o mind_n it_o be_v its_o light_n wisdom_n prudence_n knowledge_n understanding_n and_o discretion_n it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o respect_n unto_o speculation_n or_o ratiocination_n mere_o which_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d but_o this_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d be_v its_o power_n as_o it_o be_v practical_a include_v the_o habitual_a frame_n and_o inclination_n of_o the_o affection_n also_o it_o be_v its_o faculty_n to_o conceive_v of_o thing_n with_o a_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o adherence_n unto_o they_o from_o that_o suitableness_n which_o it_o find_v in_o they_o unto_o all_o its_o affection_n hence_o we_o translate_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d sometime_o to_o think_v that_o be_v to_o conceive_v and_o judge_v rom._n 12.3_o sometime_o to_o set_v the_o affection_n col._n 3.2_o to_o have_v such_o a_o apprehension_n of_o thing_n as_o to_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o our_o affection_n sometime_o to_o mind_n to_o mind_n earthly_a thing_n phil._n 3.19_o which_o include_v that_o relish_n and_o savour_n which_o the_o mind_n find_v in_o the_o thing_n it_o be_v fix_v on_o no_o where_o do_v it_o design_v a_o notional_a conception_n of_o thing_n only_o but_o principal_o the_o engagement_n of_o the_o affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n which_o the_o mind_n apprehend_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o word_n here_o use_v express_v the_o actual_a exercise_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o mind_n before_o describe_v wherefore_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o actual_a exercise_n of_o the_o mind_n as_o renew_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o furnish_v with_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o light_n in_o its_o conception_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o the_o set_n of_o its_o affection_n on_o they_o as_o find_v that_o relish_n and_o savour_n in_o they_o wherewith_o it_o be_v please_v and_o satisfy_v and_o something_o we_o must_v yet_o further_o observe_v to_o give_v light_n unto_o this_o description_n of_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n as_o it_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o 1._o it_o be_v not_o speak_v of_o absolute_o as_o unto_o what_o it_o be_v in_o itself_o but_o with_o respect_n unto_o its_o power_n and_o prevalency_n in_o we_o significant_o render_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v that_o be_v to_o have_v the_o mind_n change_v and_o renew_v by_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o light_n so_o as_o to_o be_v continual_o act_v and_o influence_v thereby_o unto_o thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n from_o the_o affection_n cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v when_o man_n mind_v earthly_a thing_n from_o a_o principle_n of_o love_n unto_o they_o arise_v from_o their_o suitableness_n unto_o their_o corrupt_a affection_n their_o thought_n meditation_n and_o desire_n be_v continual_o engage_v about_o they_o wherefore_o 2._o three_o thing_n may_v be_v distinguish_v in_o the_o great_a duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v under_o which_o notion_n it_o be_v here_o recommend_v unto_o we_o 1._o the_o actual_a exercise_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o its_o thought_n meditation_n and_o desire_n about_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a so_o be_v it_o express_v in_o the_o verse_n forego_v they_o that_o be_v after_o the_o flesh_n do_v mind_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o flesh_n they_o think_v on_o they_o their_o contrivance_n be_v about_o they_o and_o their_o desire_n after_o they_o but_o they_o that_o be_v after_o the_o spirit_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n they_o mind_v they_o by_o fix_v their_o thought_n and_o meditation_n upon_o they_o 2._o the_o inclination_n disposition_n and_o frame_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o all_o its_o affection_n whereby_o it_o adhere_v and_o cleave_v unto_o spiritual_a thing_n this_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n reside_v habitual_o in_o the_o affection_n wherefore_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o spirit_n or_o the_o mind_n as_o renew_v and_o act_v by_o a_o spiritual_a principle_n of_o light_n and_o life_n be_v the_o exercise_n of_o its_o thought_n meditation_n and_o desire_n on_o spiritual_a thing_n proceed_v from_o the_o love_n and_o delight_n of_o its_o affection_n in_o they_o and_o engagement_n unto_o they_o 3._o a_o complacency_n of_o mind_n from_o that_o gust_n relish_v and_o savour_n which_o it_o find_v in_o spiritual_a thing_n from_o their_o suitableness_n unto_o its_o constitution_n inclination_n and_o desire_n there_o be_v a_o salt_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n whereby_o they_o be_v condit_v and_o make_v savoury_a unto_o a_o renew_a mind_n though_o to_o other_o they_o be_v as_o the_o white_a of_o a_o egg_n that_o have_v no_o taste_n or_o savour_n in_o it_o in_o this_o gust_n and_o relish_n lie_v the_o sweetness_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o spiritual_a life_n speculative_a notion_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n when_o they_o be_v alone_o be_v dry_a sapless_a and_o barren_a in_o this_o gust_n we_o taste_v by_o experience_n that_o god_n be_v gracious_a and_o that_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n be_v better_a than_o wine_n or_o whatever_o else_o have_v the_o most_o grateful_a relish_n unto_o a_o sensual_a appetite_n this_o be_v the_o proper_a foundation_n of_o the_o joy_n which_o be_v unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n all_o these_o thing_n do_v concur_v in_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n or_o to_o constitute_v any_o person_n spiritual_o mind_v and_o although_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o whole_a duty_n include_v in_o it_o lie_v in_o the_o affection_n and_o their_o immediate_a adherence_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n whence_o the_o thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o the_o mind_n about_o they_o do_v proceed_v yet_o i_o shall_v treat_v of_o the_o distinct_a part_n of_o this_o duty_n in_o the_o order_n lay_v down_o begin_v with_o the_o exercise_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n about_o they_o for_o they_o be_v the_o first_o genuine_a act_n of_o the_o mind_n according_a unto_o the_o prevalency_n of_o affection_n in_o it_o they_o will_v make_v the_o best_a and_o most_o evident_a discovery_n of_o what_o nature_n the_o spring_n be_v from_o whence_o they_o do_v arise_v and_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o speak_v
distinct_o unto_o what_o be_v mention_v in_o the_o three_o place_n concern_v the_o complacency_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o what_o its_o affection_n be_v fix_v on_o for_o it_o will_v fall_v in_o with_o sundry_a other_o thing_n that_o be_v to_o be_v speak_v unto_o but_o before_o we_o do_v proceed_v it_o be_v not_o amiss_o as_o i_o suppose_v to_o put_v a_o remark_n upon_o those_o important_a truth_n which_o be_v direct_o contain_v in_o the_o word_n propose_v as_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o present_a discourse_n as_o 1._o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v the_o great_a distinguish_a character_n of_o true_a believer_n from_o all_o unregenerate_a person_n as_o such_o be_v it_o here_o assert_v by_o the_o apostle_n all_o those_o who_o be_v carnal_o mind_v who_o be_v in_o the_o flesh_n they_o be_v unregenerate_a they_o be_v not_o bear_v of_o god_n they_o please_v he_o not_o nor_o can_v do_v so_o but_o must_v perish_v for_o ever_o but_o those_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v bear_v of_o god_n do_v live_v unto_o he_o and_o shall_v come_v to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o hereon_o depend_v the_o trial_n and_o determination_n of_o what_o state_n we_o do_v belong_v unto_o 2._o where_o any_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v there_o and_o there_o alone_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n what_o these_o be_v wherein_o they_o do_v consist_v what_o be_v their_o excellency_n and_o pre-eminence_n above_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n how_o they_o be_v the_o effect_n and_o consequent_n of_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v shall_v be_v afterward_o declare_v there_o be_v neither_o of_o these_o consideration_n but_o be_v sufficient_a to_o demonstrate_v of_o how_o great_a concernment_n unto_o we_o it_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o diligent_o to_o inquire_v whether_o we_o be_v so_o or_o no._n it_o will_v therefore_o be_v no_o small_a advantage_n unto_o we_o to_o have_v our_o soul_n and_o conscience_n always_o affect_v with_o and_o in_o due_a subjection_n unto_o the_o power_n of_o this_o truth_n namely_o that_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v life_n and_o peace_n whence_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o whatever_o we_o may_v think_v otherwise_o if_o we_o be_v not_o so_o we_o have_v neither_o of_o they_o neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n it_o will_v i_o say_v be_v of_o use_n unto_o we_o if_o we_o be_v affect_v with_o the_o power_n of_o it_o for_o many_o great_o deceive_v themselves_o in_o hear_v the_o word_n they_o admit_v of_o sacred_a truth_n in_o their_o understanding_n and_o assent_v unto_o they_o but_o take_v not_o in_o the_o power_n of_o they_o on_o their_o conscience_n nor_o strict_o judge_v of_o their_o state_n and_o condition_n by_o they_o which_o prove_v their_o ruin_n for_o hereby_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o believe_v that_o whereof_o in_o truth_n they_o believe_v not_o one_o syllable_n as_o they_o ought_v they_o hear_v it_o they_o understand_v it_o in_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o they_o assent_n unto_o it_o at_o least_o they_o do_v not_o contradict_v it_o yea_o they_o commend_v it_o oftentimes_o and_o approve_v of_o it_o but_o yet_o they_o believe_v it_o not_o for_o if_o they_o do_v they_o will_v judge_v themselves_o by_o it_o and_o reckon_v on_o it_o that_o it_o will_v be_v with_o they_o at_o the_o last_o day_n according_a as_o thing_n be_v determine_v therein_o or_o such_o person_n be_v as_o the_o apostle_n james_n declare_v like_o a_o man_n behold_v his_o natural_a face_n in_o a_o glass_n for_o he_o behold_v himself_o and_o go_v his_o way_n and_o straightway_o forget_v what_o manner_n of_o man_n he_o be_v jam._n 1.23_o 24._o there_o be_v a_o representation_n make_v of_o they_o their_o state_n and_o condition_n unto_o they_o in_o the_o word_n they_o behold_v it_o and_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v even_o so_o with_o they_o as_o the_o word_n do_v declare_v but_o immediate_o their_o mind_n be_v fill_v with_o other_o thought_n act_v by_o other_o affection_n take_v up_o with_o other_o occasion_n and_o they_o forget_v in_o a_o moment_n the_o representation_n make_v of_o themselves_o and_o their_o condition_n wherefore_o all_o that_o i_o have_v to_o offer_v on_o this_o subject_n will_v be_v utter_o lose_v unless_o a_o firm_a persuasion_n hereof_o be_v fix_v on_o our_o mind_n unless_o we_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o it_o that_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v life_n and_o peace_n so_o that_o whatever_o our_o light_n and_o profession_n be_v our_o knowledge_n or_o our_o duty_n without_o this_o we_o have_v indeed_o no_o real_a interest_n in_o life_n and_o peace_n these_o thing_n be_v premise_v i_o shall_v more_o practical_o open_v the_o nature_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o what_o be_v require_v unto_o this_o frame_n of_o spirit_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v may_v be_v consider_v either_o as_o unto_o the_o nature_n and_o essence_n of_o it_o or_o as_o unto_o its_o degree_n for_o one_o may_v be_v so_o more_o than_o another_o or_o the_o same_o person_n may_v be_v more_o so_o at_o one_o time_n than_o another_o in_o the_o first_o way_n it_o be_v oppose_v unto_o be_v carnal_o mind_v in_o the_o other_o unto_o be_v earthly_a mind_v to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v be_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v death_n it_o be_v so_o every_o way_n and_o they_o who_o be_v so_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n this_o be_v oppose_v unto_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v as_o unto_o its_o nature_n or_o essence_n where_o a_o man_n as_o unto_o the_o substance_n and_o be_v of_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n intend_v be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v he_o be_v carnal_o mind_v that_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o death_n spiritual_a and_o obnoxious_a unto_o death_n eternal_a this_o be_v the_o principal_a foundation_n we_o proceed_v upon_o whence_o we_o demonstrate_v the_o indispensible_a necessity_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o mind_n inquire_v after_o there_o be_v two_o way_n wherein_o man_n be_v earthly-minded_n the_o one_o be_v absolute_a when_o the_o love_n of_o earthly_a thing_n be_v whole_o predominant_a in_o the_o mind_n this_o be_v not_o formal_o and_o proper_o to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v which_o be_v of_o a_o large_a extent_n the_o one_o denomination_n be_v from_o the_o root_n and_o principle_n namely_o the_o flesh_n the_o other_o from_o the_o object_n or_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o latter_a be_v a_o branch_n from_o the_o former_a as_o its_o root_n to_o be_v earthly_a mind_v be_v a_o operation_n and_o effect_n of_o the_o carnal_a mind_n in_o one_o especial_a way_n and_o instance_n and_o it_o be_v as_o exclusive_a of_o life_n and_o salvation_n as_o the_o carnal_a mind_n itself_o phil._n 3.19_o 1_o joh._n 2.16_o this_o therefore_o be_v oppose_v unto_o the_o be_v of_o spiritual_a mindedness_n no_o less_o than_o to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v be_v when_o there_o be_v in_o any_o a_o love_n of_o earthly_a thing_n that_o be_v predominant_a whence_o a_o person_n may_v be_v right_o denominate_v to_o be_v earthly_a mind_v he_o be_v not_o nor_o can_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v at_o all_o he_o have_v no_o interest_n in_o the_o frame_n of_o heart_n and_o spirit_n intend_v thereby_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v evident_o with_o the_o great_a part_n of_o they_o who_o be_v call_v christian_n in_o the_o world_n let_v they_o pretend_v what_o they_o will_v to_o the_o contrary_n again_o there_o be_v a_o be_v earthly-minded_n which_o consist_v in_o a_o inordinate_a affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n it_o be_v that_o which_o be_v sinful_a which_o ought_v to_o be_v mortify_v yet_o be_v it_o not_o absolute_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o substance_n and_o be_v of_o the_o grace_n inquire_v after_o some_o who_o be_v real_o and_o true_o spiritual_o mind_v yet_o may_v for_o a_o time_n at_o least_o be_v under_o such_o a_o inordinate_a affection_n unto_o and_o care_v about_o earthly_a thing_n that_o if_o not_o absolute_o yet_o comparative_o as_o unto_o what_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v and_o may_v be_v they_o may_v be_v just_o say_v to_o be_v earthly_a mind_v they_o be_v so_o in_o respect_n of_o those_o degree_n in_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v which_o they_o ought_v to_o aim_v at_o and_o may_v attain_v unto_o and_o where_o it_o be_v thus_o this_o grace_n can_v never_o thrive_v or_o flourish_v it_o can_v never_o advance_v unto_o any_o eminent_a degree_n this_o be_v the_o zoar_n of_o many_o professor_n that_o little_a one_o wherein_o they_o will_v be_v spare_v such_o a_o earthly-mindedness_a as_o be_v whole_o inconsistent_a with_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v as_o unto_o the_o state_n and_o condition_n which_o depend_v thereon_o they_o will_v avoid_v for_o this_o they_o know_v will_v be_v absolute_o exclusive_a of_o life_n and_o peace_n they_o can_v but_o know_v that_o such_o a_o frame_n be_v as_o inconsistent_a with_o salvation_n as_o live_v in_o the_o vile_a sin_n that_o any_o man_n can_v
most_o earnest_o to_o be_v desire_v or_o avoid_v herein_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o strive_v with_o all_o their_o might_n to_o endeavour_v to_o go_v run_v or_o contend_v but_o all_o in_o vain_a every_o thing_n fail_v they_o and_o they_o be_v not_o relieve_v until_o they_o be_v awake_v so_o such_o person_n in_o impression_n they_o receive_v from_o the_o word_n seem_v to_o strive_v and_o contend_v in_o their_o thought_n and_o resolution_n to_o comply_v with_o what_o be_v propose_v unto_o they_o but_o their_o strength_n fail_v they_o find_v no_o success_n for_o want_v of_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o after_o a_o time_n give_v over_o their_o endeavour_n until_o they_o be_v occasional_o renew_v again_o now_o the_o thought_n which_o in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n do_v proceed_v from_o a_o inward_a principle_n of_o grace_n excite_v unto_o its_o due_a exercise_n be_v distinguishable_a from_o they_o which_o be_v only_o occasional_o suggest_v unto_o the_o mind_n by_o the_o word_n outward_o preach_v for_o 1._o they_o be_v especial_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n towards_o the_o thing_n themselves_o that_o be_v preach_v they_o belong_v unto_o our_o receive_v the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n thereof_o and_o love_n respect_v the_o goodness_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o and_o not_o mere_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o proposition_n wherein_o they_o be_v express_v the_o other_o thought_n be_v only_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o mind_n as_o affect_v with_o light_n and_o truth_n without_o any_o cordial_a love_n unto_o the_o thing_n themselves_o 2._o they_o be_v accompany_v with_o complacency_n of_o soul_n arise_v from_o love_n experience_n more_o or_o less_o of_o the_o power_n of_o they_o and_o their_o suitableness_n unto_o the_o new_a nature_n or_o principle_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o for_o when_o our_o mind_n find_v that_o so_o indeed_o it_o be_v in_o we_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o word_n that_o this_o be_v that_o which_o we_o will_v be_v more_o conformable_a unto_o it_o give_v a_o secret_a complacency_n with_o satisfaction_n unto_o the_o soul._n the_o other_o thought_n which_o be_v only_o occasional_a have_v none_o of_o these_o concomitant_n or_o effect_n but_o be_v dry_a and_o barren_a unless_o it_o be_v in_o a_o few_o word_n or_o transient_a discourse_n 3._o the_o former_a be_v mean_n of_o spiritual_a growth_n so_o some_o say_v the_o natural_a growth_n of_o vegetable_n be_v not_o by_o insensible_a motion_n but_o by_o gust_n and_o sensible_a eruption_n of_o increase_n these_o be_v both_o in_o spiritual_a growth_n and_o the_o late_a consist_v much_o in_o those_o thought_n which_o the_o principle_n of_o the_o new_a nature_n be_v excite_v unto_o by_o the_o word_n in_o the_o latter_a 2._o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n be_v another_o mean_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n one_o principal_a end_n of_o it_o be_v to_o excite_v stir_v up_o and_o draw_v forth_o the_o principle_n of_o grace_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o heart_n unto_o a_o due_a exercise_n in_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n with_o affection_n suitable_a unto_o they_o those_o who_o design_v not_o this_o end_n in_o prayer_n know_v not_o at_o all_o what_o it_o be_v to_o pray_v now_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n have_v frequent_a occasion_n to_o join_v with_o other_o in_o prayer_n and_o many_o be_v under_o the_o conviction_n that_o it_o be_v their_o own_o duty_n to_o pray_v every_o day_n it_o may_v be_v in_o their_o family_n and_o otherwise_o and_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o conceive_v how_o man_n can_v constant_o join_v with_o other_o in_o prayer_n much_o more_o how_o they_o can_v pray_v themselves_o but_o that_o they_o must_v have_v thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n every_o day_n howbeit_o it_o be_v possible_a that_o they_o may_v have_v no_o root_n or_o live_a spring_n of_o they_o in_o themselves_o but_o they_o be_v only_o occasional_a impression_n on_o their_o mind_n from_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n i_o shall_v give_v some_o instance_n of_o the_o ground_n hereof_o which_o on_o many_o reason_n require_v our_o diligent_a consideration_n spiritual_a thought_n may_v be_v raise_v in_o a_o person_n in_o his_o own_o duty_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o gift_n when_o there_o be_v no_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o at_o all_o for_o they_o lead_v and_o guide_v the_o mind_n unto_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v the_o matter_n of_o prayer_n that_o be_v spiritual_a thing_n gift_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o spiritual_a improvement_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n or_o ability_n and_o a_o man_n can_v speak_v or_o utter_v any_o thing_n but_o what_o proceed_v from_o his_o rational_a faculty_n by_o invention_n or_o memory_n or_o both_o manage_v in_o and_o by_o his_o thought_n unless_o he_o speak_v by_o rote_n and_o that_o which_o be_v not_o rational_a what_o therefore_o proceed_v from_o a_o man_n rational_a faculty_n in_o and_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o gift_n that_o his_o thought_n must_v be_v exercise_v about_o a_o man_n may_v read_v a_o long_a prayer_n that_o express_v spiritual_a thing_n and_o yet_o never_o have_v one_o spiritual_a thought_n arise_v in_o his_o mind_n about_o they_o for_o there_o be_v no_o exercise_n of_o any_o faculty_n of_o his_o mind_n require_v unto_o such_o read_n but_o only_o to_o attend_v unto_o the_o word_n that_o be_v to_o be_v read_v this_o i_o say_v may_v be_v so_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o it_o be_v always_o so_o or_o that_o it_o must_v be_v so_o but_o as_o be_v say_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o gift_n it_o be_v impossible_a but_o there_o must_v be_v a_o exercise_n of_o reason_n by_o invention_n judgement_n and_o memory_n and_o consequent_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n yet_o may_v they_o all_o be_v mere_o occasional_a from_o the_o present_a external_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n without_o any_o live_a spring_n or_o exercise_v of_o grace_n in_o such_o a_o course_n may_v man_n of_o tolerable_a gift_n continue_v all_o their_o day_n unto_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o themselves_o and_o other_o deceive_v both_o they_o and_o their_o own_o soul_n this_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o scripture_n and_o experience_n a_o enquiry_n may_v be_v make_v thereon_o as_o unto_o our_o own_o concernment_n in_o these_o thing_n especial_o of_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v spiritual_a gift_n of_o their_o own_o and_o of_o they_o also_o in_o some_o degree_n who_o usual_o enjoy_v the_o gift_n of_o other_o in_o this_o duty_n for_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v how_o we_o shall_v know_v whether_o the_o thought_n which_o we_o have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o and_o upon_o prayer_n do_v arise_v from_o gift_n only_o those_o of_o our_o own_o or_o other_o man_n give_v occasion_n unto_o they_o or_o be_v influence_v from_o a_o live_a principle_n and_o spring_n of_o grace_n in_o our_o heart_n a_o case_n this_o be_v however_o by_o some_o it_o may_v be_v apprehend_v of_o great_a importance_n and_o which_o will_v require_v much_o time_n full_o to_o resolve_v for_o there_o be_v nothing_o whereby_o the_o refine_a sort_n of_o hypocrite_n do_v more_o deceive_v themselves_o and_o other_o nothing_o whereby_o some_o man_n do_v give_v themselves_o more_o countenance_n in_o a_o indulgence_n unto_o their_o lust_n than_o by_o this_o part_n of_o the_o form_n of_o godliness_n when_o they_o deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o and_o beside_o it_o be_v that_o wherein_o the_o best_a of_o believer_n ought_v to_o keep_v a_o diligent_a watch_n over_o themselves_o in_o every_o particular_a instance_n of_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n with_o respect_n hereunto_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n be_v they_o to_o watch_v unto_o prayer_n if_o they_o be_v at_o any_o time_n negligent_a herein_o they_o may_v rest_v in_o a_o bare_a exercise_n of_o gift_n when_o on_o a_o due_a examination_n and_o trial_n they_o have_v no_o evidence_n of_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o what_o they_o have_v do_v i_o shall_v therefore_o with_o what_o brevity_n i_o can_v give_v a_o resolution_n unto_o this_o enquiry_n and_o to_o this_o end_n observe_v 1._o it_o be_v a_o ancient_a complaint_n that_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v fill_v with_o great_a obscurity_n and_o difficulty_n and_o it_o be_v true_a not_o that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o thing_n in_o themselves_o for_o they_o all_o come_v forth_o from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n and_o be_v full_a of_o light_n order_n beauty_n and_o wisdom_n and_o light_n and_o order_n be_v the_o only_a mean_n whereby_o any_o thing_n make_v a_o discovery_n of_o itself_o but_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o darkness_n and_o difficulty_n in_o these_o thing_n lie_v in_o ourselves_o we_o can_v more_o clear_o and_o steady_o see_v and_o behold_v the_o moon_n and_o the_o star_n than_o we_o can_v the_o sun_n when_o it_o shine_v in_o its_o great_a lustre_n it_o be_v not_o because_o there_o be_v more_o light_n
in_o the_o moon_n and_o star_n than_o in_o the_o sun_n but_o because_o the_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n be_v great_a than_o our_o visive_a faculty_n can_v direct_o bear_v and_o behold_v so_o we_o can_v more_o clear_o discover_v the_o truth_n and_o distinct_a nature_n of_o thing_n moral_a and_o natural_a than_o we_o can_v of_o thing_n that_o be_v heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a see_v john_n 3.14_o not_o that_o there_o be_v more_o substance_n or_o reality_n in_o they_o but_o because_o the_o ability_n of_o our_o understanding_n be_v more_o suit_v unto_o the_o comprehension_n of_o they_o the_o other_o be_v above_o we_o we_o know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o our_o mind_n be_v liable_a to_o be_v hinder_v and_o disorder_v in_o their_o apprehension_n of_o thing_n heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a by_o ignorance_n temptation_n and_o prejudices_fw-la of_o all_o sort_n in_o nothing_o more_o be_v man_n subject_a unto_o mistake_n than_o in_o the_o application_n of_o thing_n unto_o themselves_o and_o a_o judgement_n of_o their_o interest_n in_o they_o fear_v self-love_n with_o the_o prevalency_n of_o temptation_n and_o corruption_n do_v all_o engage_v their_o power_n to_o darken_v the_o light_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o to_o pervert_v its_o judgement_n in_o no_o case_n do_v the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n or_o of_o sin_n which_o be_v all_o one_o more_o act_n itself_o hence_o multitude_n say_v peace_n to_o themselves_o to_o who_o god_n do_v not_o speak_v peace_n and_o some_o who_o be_v child_n of_o light_n do_v yet_o walk_v in_o darkness_n hence_o be_v that_o fervent_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n for_o help_v in_o this_o case_n ephes._n 1.16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o there_o be_v also_o a_o great_a similitude_n between_o temporary_a faith_n and_o that_o which_o be_v save_v and_o durable_a and_o between_o gift_n and_o grace_n in_o their_o operation_n which_o be_v that_o that_o be_v under_o present_a consideration_n it_o be_v acknowledge_v therefore_o that_o without_o the_o especial_a light_n and_o conduct_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n no_o man_n can_v make_v such_o a_o judgement_n of_o his_o state_n and_o his_o action_n as_o shall_v be_v a_o stable_a foundation_n of_o give_v glory_n to_o god_n and_o of_o obtain_v peace_n unto_o his_o own_o soul._n and_o therefore_o the_o great_a part_n of_o mankind_n do_v constant_o deceive_v themselves_o in_o these_o thing_n but_o ordinary_o under_o this_o bless_a conduct_n in_o the_o search_n of_o ourselves_o and_o the_o concernment_n of_o our_o duty_n we_o may_v come_v unto_o a_o satisfaction_n whether_o they_o be_v influence_v by_o faith_n and_o have_v grace_n exercise_v in_o they_o especial_o this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n or_o whether_o it_o derive_v from_o the_o power_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n raise_v by_o light_n and_o spiritual_a gift_n only_o and_o so_o whether_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n therein_o do_v spring_n from_o a_o vital_a principle_n of_o grace_n or_o whether_o they_o come_v from_o occasional_a impression_n on_o the_o mind_n by_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n itself_o if_o man_n be_v willing_a to_o deceive_v themselves_o or_o to_o hide_v themselves_o from_o themselves_o to_o walk_v with_o god_n at_o all_o per_fw-la adventure_n to_o leave_v all_o thing_n at_o hazard_n to_o put_v off_o all_o trial_n unto_o that_o at_o the_o last_o day_n and_o so_o never_o call_v themselves_o unto_o a_o account_n as_o unto_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o duty_n in_o any_o particular_a instance_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v make_v any_o distinction_n in_o this_o matter_n as_o unto_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o their_o thought_n in_o spiritual_a duty_n two_o thing_n be_v require_v hereunto_o 1._o that_o we_o impartial_o and_o severe_o examine_v and_o try_v the_o frames_n and_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o holy_a duty_n by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o thereon_o not_o be_v afraid_a to_o speak_v that_o plain_o unto_o our_o soul_n which_o the_o word_n speak_v unto_o we_o this_o diligent_a search_n ought_v to_o respect_v our_o principle_n aim_n end_n act_n with_o the_o whole_a deportment_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o every_o duty_n see_v 2_o cor._n 13.5_o if_o a_o man_n receive_v much_o money_n and_o look_v only_o on_o the_o outward_a form_n and_o superscription_n when_o he_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v great_a store_n of_o currant_n coin_n in_o gold_n and_o silver_n he_o may_v have_v only_a heap_n of_o lead_n or_o copper_n by_o he_o but_o he_o that_o trade_v in_o it_o as_o the_o comfort_n and_o support_v of_o his_o natural_a life_n and_o condition_n he_o will_v try_v what_o he_o receive_v both_o by_o the_o balance_n and_o the_o touchstone_n as_o the_o occasion_n require_v especial_o if_o it_o be_v in_o a_o time_n when_o much_o adulterate_v coin_n be_v passant_a in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o a_o man_n reckon_v on_o his_o duty_n by_o tale_n and_o number_n he_o may_v be_v utter_o deceive_v and_o be_v spiritual_o poor_a and_o a_o bankrupt_a when_o he_o esteem_v himself_o rich_a increase_v in_o good_n and_o want_v nothing_o some_o duty_n may_v appear_o hold_v in_o the_o balance_n as_o to_o weight_n which_o will_v not_o hold_v it_o at_o the_o touchstone_n as_o to_o worth_n both_o mean_n be_v to_o be_v use_v if_o we_o will_v not_o be_v mistake_v in_o our_o account_n thus_o god_n himself_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o multitude_n of_o duty_n call_v the_o people_n to_o try_v and_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o be_v such_o as_o have_v faith_n and_o grace_n in_o they_o and_o so_o like_a to_o have_v acceptance_n with_o he_o isa._n 58.2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o 2._o add_v we_o must_v unto_o our_o own_o diligent_a enquiry_n fervent_a prayer_n unto_o god_n that_o he_o will_v search_v and_o try_v we_o as_o unto_o our_o sincerity_n and_o discover_v unto_o we_o the_o true_a frame_n of_o our_o heart_n hereof_o we_o have_v a_o express_a example_n psal._n 139.23_o 24._o search_v i_o o_o god_n and_o know_v my_o heart_n try_v i_o and_o know_v my_o thought_n and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v any_o wicked_a way_n in_o i_o and_o lead_v i_o in_o the_o way_n everlasting_a this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v have_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n witness_v unto_o our_o sincerity_n with_o our_o own_o spirit_n there_o be_v need_n of_o call_v in_o divine_a assistance_n in_o this_o matter_n both_o from_o the_o importance_n of_o it_o and_o from_o its_o difficulty_n god_n alone_o know_v full_o and_o perfect_o what_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n i_o no_o way_n doubt_v but_o that_o in_o the_o impartial_a use_n of_o these_o mean_n a_o man_n may_v come_v to_o assure_a satisfaction_n in_o his_o own_o mind_n such_o as_o wherein_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v deceive_v whether_o he_o do_v animate_v and_o quicken_v his_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o duty_n with_o inward_a vital_a grace_n or_o whether_o they_o be_v impression_n on_o his_o mind_n by_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o duty_n a_o duty_n this_o be_v of_o great_a importance_n and_o necessity_n now_o hypocrisy_n have_v make_v so_o great_a a_o inroad_a on_o profession_n and_o gift_n have_v doflowred_a grace_n in_o its_o principal_a operation_n no_o person_n be_v in_o great_a danger_n of_o walk_v at_o hazard_n with_o god_n than_o those_o who_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n in_o duty_n unto_o their_o own_o satisfaction_n and_o other_o for_o they_o may_v countenance_v themselves_o with_o a_o appearance_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o they_o in_o reality_n and_o power_n when_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o it_o in_o they_o and_o so_o it_o have_v fall_v out_o we_o have_v see_v many_o earnest_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o gift_n who_o have_v turn_v vile_a and_o debauch_a apostate_n some_o have_v be_v know_v to_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o a_o indulgence_n of_o their_o lust_n and_o yet_o to_o abide_v constant_a in_o their_o duty_n isa._n 1.15_o and_o we_o may_v hear_v prayer_n sometime_o that_o open_o discover_v themselves_o unto_o spiritual_a sense_n to_o be_v the_o labour_n of_o the_o brain_n by_o the_o help_n of_o gift_n in_o memory_n and_o invention_n without_o a_o evidence_n of_o any_o mixture_n of_o humility_n reverence_n or_o godly_a fear_n without_o any_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n they_o flow_v as_o wine_n yet_o smell_v and_o taste_v of_o the_o unsavoury_a cask_n from_o whence_o they_o proceed_v it_o be_v necessary_a therefore_o that_o we_o shall_v put_v ourselves_o on_o the_o severe_a trial_n lest_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v not_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o spiritual_a duty_n gift_n be_v gracious_a vouchsafement_n of_o christ_n to_o make_v grace_n useful_a unto_o ourselves_o and_o other_o yea_o they_o may_v make_v they_o useful_a unto_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o who_o have_v no_o grace_n in_o themselves_o but_o as_o
heart_n and_o affection_n 3._o earnestness_n and_o appear_a fervency_n in_o prayer_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a delivery_n of_o the_o word_n of_o it_o yea_o though_o the_o mind_n be_v so_o affect_v as_o to_o contribute_v much_o thereunto_o will_v not_o of_o themselves_o prove_v that_o the_o thought_n of_o man_n therein_o do_v arise_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n there_o be_v a_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n in_o prayer_n that_o be_v one_o of_o the_o best_a property_n of_o it_o be_v a_o earnest_n act_v of_o love_n faith_n and_o desire_n but_o there_o be_v a_o fervency_n wherewith_o the_o mind_n itself_o may_v be_v affect_v that_o may_v arise_v from_o other_o cause_n 1._o it_o may_v do_v so_o from_o the_o engagement_n of_o natural_a affection_n unto_o the_o object_n of_o their_o prayer_n or_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o man_n may_v be_v mighty_a earnest_n and_o intent_n in_o their_o mind_n in_o pray_v for_o a_o dear_a relation_n or_o for_o deliverance_n from_o eminent_a trouble_n or_o imminent_a danger_n and_o yet_o all_o this_o fervour_n arise_v from_o the_o vehement_a act_n of_o natural_a affection_n about_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o excite_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n by_o the_o present_a duty_n hence_o god_n call_v the_o earnest_a cry_n of_o some_o for_o temporal_a thing_n not_o a_o cry_v unto_o he_o but_o a_o howl_v hosea_n 7.14_o that_o be_v the_o cry_n of_o hungry_a ravenous_a beast_n that_o will_v be_v satisfy_v 2._o sometime_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o sharpness_n of_o conviction_n which_o will_v make_v man_n even_o roar_v in_o their_o prayer_n for_o disquietment_n of_o heart_n and_o this_o may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o true_a grace_n as_o yet_o receive_v nor_o it_o may_v be_v ever_o will_v be_v so_o for_o the_o perplex_v work_n of_o conviction_n go_v before_o real_a conversion_n and_o as_o it_o produce_v many_o other_o effect_n and_o change_n in_o the_o mind_n so_o it_o may_v do_v this_o of_o great_a fervency_n in_o vocal_a prayer_n especial_o if_o it_o be_v accompany_v with_o outward_a affliction_n pain_n or_o trouble_n psal._n 78.34_o 35._o 3._o ofttime_n the_o mind_n and_o affection_n be_v very_o little_o concern_v in_o that_o fervour_n and_o earnestness_n which_o appear_v in_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n but_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o gift_n and_o through_o their_o own_o utterance_n man_n put_v their_o natural_a affection_n into_o such_o a_o agitation_n as_o shall_v carry_v they_o out_o into_o a_o great_a vehemency_n in_o their_o expression_n it_o have_v be_v so_o with_o sundry_a person_n who_o have_v be_v discover_v to_o be_v rot_a hypocrite_n and_o have_v afterward_o turn_v curse_v apostate_n wherefore_o all_o these_o thing_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o gracious_a spring_n or_o vital_a principle_n act_v itself_o from_o within_o in_o spiritual_a thought_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v design_v a_o advantage_n by_o their_o conception_n unto_o the_o interest_n of_o profaneness_n and_o scoff_v for_o if_o there_o may_v be_v these_o evil_n under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n both_o in_o constancy_n and_o with_o fervency_n if_o there_o may_v be_v a_o total_a want_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o true_a grace_n with_o it_o and_o under_o it_o than_o it_o may_v be_v all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o this_o gift_n and_o its_o use_n be_v but_o hypocrisy_n and_o talk_n but_o i_o say_v 1._o it_o may_v be_v as_o well_o pretend_v that_o because_o the_o sun_n shine_v on_o a_o dunghill_n do_v occasion_n offensive_a and_o noisome_a steam_n therefore_o all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o its_o influence_n on_o spice_n and_o flower_n cause_v they_o to_o give_v out_o their_o fragrancy_n be_v utter_o false_a no_o man_n ever_o think_v that_o spiritual_a gift_n do_v change_v or_o renew_v the_o mind_n and_o nature_n of_o man_n where_o they_o be_v alone_o they_o only_o help_v and_o assist_v unto_o the_o useful_a exercise_n of_o natural_a faculty_n and_o power_n and_o therefore_o where_o the_o heart_n be_v not_o saving_o renew_v no_o gift_n can_v stir_v up_o a_o save_a exercise_n of_o faith_n but_o where_o it_o be_v so_o they_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o cause_v the_o savour_n of_o it_o to_o flow_v forth_o 2._o be_v it_o so_o that_o there_o may_v be_v some_o evil_n find_v under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n what_o remedy_n for_o they_o may_v be_v propose_v be_v it_o that_o man_n shall_v renounce_v their_o use_n of_o it_o and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n only_o 1._o the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o spiritual_a gift_n whatever_o for_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o liable_a unto_o abuse_n and_o shall_v we_o reject_v all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v the_o whole_a complexe_n of_o gospel_n gift_n for_o the_o commuication_n whereof_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v promise_v to_o continue_v his_o spirit_n with_o his_o church_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n because_o by_o some_o they_o be_v abuse_v 2._o not_o only_o the_o same_o but_o far_o great_a evil_n may_v be_v find_v in_o and_o under_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n which_o need_v no_o further_a demonstration_n than_o what_o it_o give_v of_o itself_o every_o day_n 3._o it_o be_v hard_o to_o understand_v how_o any_o benefit_n at_o all_o can_v accrue_v unto_o any_o by_o this_o relief_n when_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o other_o way_n be_v evident_a wherefore_o the_o enquiry_n remain_v how_o we_o may_v know_v unto_o our_o own_o satisfaction_n that_o the_o thought_n we_o have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n be_v from_o internal_a fountain_n of_o grace_n and_o so_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v whereunto_o all_o these_o thing_n do_v tend_v some_o few_o thing_n i_o shall_v offer_v towards_o satisfaction_n herein_o 1._o i_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v on_o the_o evidence_n before_o give_v that_o person_n who_o have_v any_o spiritual_a light_n and_o will_v diligent_o examine_v and_o try_v their_o own_o heart_n will_v be_v able_a to_o discern_v what_o real_a act_n of_o faith_n of_o love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n there_o be_v in_o their_o duty_n and_o consequent_o what_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o their_o spiritual_a thought_n in_o general_n we_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n in_o himself_o 1_o joh._n 5.10_o sincere_a faith_n will_v be_v its_o own_o evidence_n and_o where_o there_o be_v sincere_a act_n of_o faith_n they_o will_v evidence_n themselves_o if_o we_o try_v all_o thing_n impartial_o by_o the_o word_n but_o if_o man_n do_v as_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o do_v content_v themselves_o with_o the_o performance_n of_o any_o duty_n without_o a_o examination_n of_o their_o principle_n frames_n and_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o walk_v in_o all_o uncertainty_n 2._o when_o the_o soul_n find_v a_o sweet_a spiritual_a complacency_n in_o and_o after_o its_o duty_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o grace_n have_v be_v act_v in_o its_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o desire_n jer._n 31._o the_o prophet_n receive_v a_o long_a gracious_a message_n from_o god_n fill_v up_o with_o excellent_a promise_n and_o pathetical_a exhortation_n unto_o the_o church_n the_o whole_a be_v as_o it_o be_v sum_v up_o in_o the_o close_a of_o it_o ver._n 25._o for_o i_o have_v satiate_v the_o weary_a soul_n and_o i_o have_v replenish_v every_o sorrowful_a soul_n whereon_o the_o prophet_n add_v upon_o this_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v and_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o god_n gracious_a message_n have_v so_o compose_v his_o spirit_n and_o free_v his_o mind_n from_o trouble_n as_o that_o he_o be_v at_o quiet_a repose_n in_o himself_o like_o a_o man_n asleep_a but_o after_o the_o end_n of_o it_o he_o stir_v up_o himself_o unto_o a_o review_n and_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v speak_v unto_o he_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v or_o i_o stir_v up_o myself_o and_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v deliver_v unto_o i_o and_o say_v he_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o i_o find_v a_o gracious_a complacency_n in_o and_o refreshment_n unto_o my_o soul_n from_o what_o i_o have_v hear_v and_o receive_v so_o be_v it_o ofttimes_o with_o a_o soul_n that_o have_v have_v real_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n it_o find_v itself_o both_o in_o it_o and_o afterward_o when_o it_o be_v awaken_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o it_o spiritual_o refresh_v it_o be_v sweet_a unto_o he_o this_o holy_a complacency_n this_o rest_n and_o sweet_a repose_n of_o mind_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o delight_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o duty_n they_o do_v not_o pray_v only_o because_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n so_o to_o do_v nor_o yet_o because_o
they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o it_o so_o as_o that_o they_o can_v live_v without_o it_o but_o they_o have_v delight_n in_o it_o and_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o it_o be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o their_o daily_a food_n and_o refreshment_n now_o we_o can_v have_v no_o delight_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o what_o we_o have_v find_v some_o sweetness_n rest_v and_o complacency_n in_o without_o any_o such_o experience_n we_o may_v do_v or_o use_v any_o thing_n but_o can_v do_v it_o with_o delight_n and_o it_o arise_v 1._o from_o the_o approach_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o god_n therein_o it_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n a_o access_n unto_o god_n on_o a_o throne_n of_o grace_n ephes._n 2.18_o heb._n 10.19_o 20._o and_o when_o this_o access_n be_v animate_v by_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n the_o soul_n have_v a_o spiritual_a experience_n of_o a_o nearness_n in_o that_o approach_n now_o god_n be_v the_o fountain_n and_o centre_n of_o all_o spiritual_a refreshment_n rest_v and_o complacency_n and_o in_o such_o a_o access_n unto_o he_o there_o be_v a_o refresh_a taste_n of_o they_o communicate_v unto_o the_o soul_n psal._n 36.7_o 8_o 9_o how_o excellent_a be_v thy_o love_a kindness_n o_o god_n therefore_o the_o child_n of_o man_n put_v their_o trust_n under_o the_o shadow_n of_o thy_o wing_n they_o shall_v be_v abundant_o satisfy_v with_o the_o fatness_n of_o thy_o house_n and_o thou_o shall_v make_v they_o drink_v of_o the_o river_n of_o thy_o pleasure_n for_o with_o thou_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o life_n in_o thy_o light_n we_o shall_v see_v light_n god_n be_v propose_v in_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o love_a kindness_n which_o be_v comprehensive_a of_o his_o goodness_n grace_n and_o mercy_n and_o so_o be_v he_o also_o as_o the_o spring_n of_o life_n and_o light_n all_o spiritual_a power_n and_o joy_n those_o that_o believe_v be_v describe_v by_o their_o trust_n under_o the_o shadow_n of_o his_o wing_n in_o his_o worship_n the_o fatness_n of_o his_o house_n they_o make_v their_o approach_n unto_o he_o and_o the_o fruit_n hereof_o be_v that_o he_o make_v they_o to_o drink_v of_o the_o river_n of_o his_o pleasure_n the_o satisfy_n refresh_a stream_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o goodness_n they_o approach_v unto_o he_o as_o unto_o the_o fountain_n of_o life_n so_o as_o to_o drink_v of_o that_o fountain_n in_o renew_a communication_n of_o life_n and_o grace_n and_o in_o the_o light_n of_o god_n the_o light_n of_o his_o countenance_n to_o see_v light_n in_o satisfy_v joy_n in_o these_o thing_n do_v consist_v and_o from_o they_o do_v arise_v that_o spiritual_a complacency_n which_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n do_v find_v in_o their_o duty_n 2._o from_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o faith_n love_n and_o delight_n the_o grace_n wherein_o the_o life_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n do_v principal_o consist_v there_o be_v a_o suitableness_n unto_o our_o natural_a constitution_n and_o a_o secret_a complacency_n of_o our_o nature_n in_o the_o proper_a act_n of_o life_n natural_a for_o its_o own_o preservation_n and_o increase_n there_o be_v so_o in_o our_o spiritual_a constitution_n in_o the_o proper_a act_n of_o the_o power_n of_o our_o spiritual_a life_n unto_o its_o preservation_n and_o increase_n these_o grace_n in_o their_o due_a exercise_n do_v compose_v and_o refresh_v the_o mind_n as_o those_o which_o be_v perfective_a of_o its_o state_n which_o quell_v and_o cast_v out_o whatever_o trouble_v it_o thence_o a_o bless_a satisfaction_n and_o complacency_n befall_v the_o soul_n herein_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n in_o himself_o beside_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v never_o real_o act_v on_o christ_n but_o they_o prepare_v and_o make_v meet_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v communication_n of_o love_n and_o grace_n from_o he_o which_o it_o never_o fail_v of_o although_o it_o be_v not_o always_o sensible_a thereof_o 3._o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n unto_o our_o sincerity_n both_o in_o aim_n end_n and_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n hence_o a_o gracious_a repose_n of_o mind_n and_o great_a satisfactoriness_n do_v ensue_v if_o we_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o these_o thing_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o we_o walk_v at_o random_n in_o the_o best_a of_o our_o duty_n for_o they_o be_v among_o the_o principal_a thing_n that_o we_o do_v or_o aught_o to_o pray_v for_o and_o if_o we_o have_v not_o experience_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o our_o prayer_n in_o our_o heart_n we_o neither_o have_v advantage_n by_o they_o nor_o give_v glory_n unto_o god_n in_o they_o but_o yet_o here_o as_o in_o most_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n one_o of_o the_o worst_a of_o vice_n be_v ready_a to_o impose_v itself_o in_o the_o room_n and_o place_n of_o the_o best_a of_o our_o grace_n and_o this_o be_v self-pleasing_a in_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n this_o instead_o of_o a_o grace_n steep_v in_o humility_n as_o all_o true_a grace_n be_v be_v a_o vile_a effect_n of_o spiritual_a pride_n or_o the_o offering_n of_o a_o sacrifice_n unto_o our_o own_o net_n and_o drag_v it_o be_v a_o glory_v in_o the_o flesh_n for_o whatever_o of_o self_n any_o do_v glory_n in_o it_o be_v but_o flesh._n when_o man_n have_v have_v enlargement_n in_o their_o expression_n and_o especial_o when_o they_o apprehend_v that_o other_o be_v satisfy_v or_o affect_v therewith_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o have_v a_o secret_a self-pleasing_a in_o what_o they_o have_v do_v which_o before_o they_o be_v aware_a turn_n into_o pride_n and_o a_o noxious_a elation_n of_o mind_n the_o same_o may_v befall_v man_n in_o their_o most_o secret_a duty_n perform_v outward_o by_o the_o aid_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n but_o this_o be_v most_o remote_a from_o and_o contrary_n unto_o that_o spiritual_a complacency_n in_o duty_n which_o we_o speak_v of_o which_o yet_o it_o will_v pretend_v unto_o until_o it_o be_v diligent_o examine_v the_o language_n of_o this_o spiritual_a complacency_n be_v i_o will_v go_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n i_o will_v make_v mention_n of_o thy_o righteousness_n of_o thy_o only_a psal._n 71.16_o that_o of_o spiritual_a pride_n be_v god_n i_o thank_v thou_o that_o i_o have_v do_v thus_o and_o thus_o as_o it_o be_v express_v by_o the_o pharisee_fw-mi that_o be_v in_o god_n alone_o this_o be_v in_o self_n that_o draw_v forth_o the_o savour_n of_o all_o grace_n this_o immediate_o cover_v and_o bury_v they_o all_o if_o there_o be_v any_o in_o the_o sâ—ul_a that_o fill_v the_o soul_n eminent_o with_o humility_n and_o self-abasement_n this_o with_o a_o lift_n up_o of_o the_o mind_n and_o proud_a self-conceit_n that_o cast_v out_o all_o remembrance_n of_o what_o we_o have_v do_v ourselves_o retain_v only_o a_o sense_n of_o what_o we_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n of_o the_o impression_n of_o his_o love_n and_o grace_n this_o blot_n out_o all_o remembrance_n of_o what_o we_o have_v free_o receive_v from_o god_n and_o retain_v only_o what_o we_o have_v do_v ourselves_o wherever_o it_o be_v there_o be_v no_o due_a sense_n either_o of_o the_o greatness_n or_o goodness_n of_o god_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v say_v that_o if_o it_o be_v so_o they_o for_o their_o part_n be_v cut_v off_o they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o any_o such_o spiritual_a rest_n and_o complacency_n in_o god_n in_o or_o after_o their_o prayer_n at_o the_o best_a they_o begin_v they_o with_o tear_n and_o end_v they_o in_o sorrow_n and_o sometime_o they_o know_v not_o what_o be_v become_v of_o they_o but_o fear_v that_o god_n be_v not_o glorify_v by_o they_o nor_o their_o own_o soul_n better_v i_o answer_v 1._o there_o be_v great_a spiritual_a refreshment_n in_o that_o godly_a sorrow_n which_o be_v at_o work_n in_o our_o prayer_n where_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n he_o cause_v mourn_v and_o in_o that_o mourn_a there_o be_v joy_n 2._o the_o secret_a encouragement_n which_o we_o receive_v by_o pray_v to_o adhere_v unto_o god_n constant_o in_o prayer_n arise_v from_o some_o experience_n of_o this_o holy_a complacency_n though_o we_o have_v not_o a_o sensible_a evidence_n of_o it_o 3._o perhaps_o some_o of_o they_o who_o make_v this_o complaint_n if_o they_o will_v awaken_v and_o consider_v will_v find_v that_o their_o soul_n at_o least_o sometime_o have_v be_v thus_o refresh_v and_o bring_v unto_o a_o holy_a rest_n in_o god_n 4._o then_o shall_v you_o know_v the_o lord_n if_o you_o follow_v on_o to_o know_v he_o abide_v in_o seek_v after_o this_o complacency_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o god_n and_o you_o shall_v attain_v it_o 3._o it_o be_v a_o sure_a evidence_n that_o our_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o supplication_n be_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n and_o be_v not_o mere_o occasion_v by_o the_o
duty_n itself_o when_o we_o find_v the_o daily_a fruit_n and_o advantage_n of_o they_o especial_o in_o the_o preservation_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o a_o holy_a humble_a watchful_a frame_n innumerable_a be_v the_o advantage_n benefit_n and_o effect_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v common_o speak_v unto_o growth_n in_o grace_n and_o consolation_n be_v the_o substance_n of_o they_o where_o there_o be_v continuance_n in_o prayer_n there_o will_v be_v spiritual_a growth_n in_o some_o proportion_n for_o man_n to_o be_v earnest_a in_o prayer_n and_o thriftless_a in_o grace_n be_v a_o certain_a indication_n of_o prevalent_a corruption_n and_o want_v of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a in_o prayer_n itself_o if_o a_o man_n eat_v his_o daily_a food_n let_v he_o eat_v never_o so_o much_o or_o so_o often_o if_o he_o be_v not_o nourish_v by_o it_o his_o body_n be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o prevalent_a distemper_n and_o so_o be_v his_o spiritual_a constitution_n who_o thrive_v not_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o food_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n but_o that_o which_o i_o fix_v upon_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o present_a enquiry_n be_v the_o frame_n that_o it_o preserve_v the_o soul_n in_o it_o will_v keep_v it_o humble_a and_o upon_o a_o diligent_a watch_n as_o unto_o its_o disposition_n and_o act_n he_o who_o pray_v as_o he_o ought_v will_v endeavour_v to_o live_v as_o he_o pray_v this_o none_o can_v do_v who_o do_v not_o with_o diligence_n keep_v his_o heart_n unto_o the_o thing_n he_o have_v pray_v about_o to_o pray_v earnest_o and_o live_v careless_o be_v to_o proclaim_v that_o a_o man_n be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v in_o his_o prayer_n hereby_o than_o we_o shall_v know_v what_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o those_o spiritual_a thought_n which_o our_o mind_n be_v exercise_v withal_o in_o our_o supplication_n if_o they_o be_v influence_v unto_o a_o constant_a daily_a watch_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o that_o frame_n of_o spirit_n those_o disposition_n and_o inclination_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o we_o pray_v for_o they_o be_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n if_o there_o be_v general_o a_o unsuitableness_n in_o our_o mind_n unto_o what_o we_o seem_v to_o contend_v for_o in_o our_o prayer_n the_o gift_n may_v be_v in_o exercise_n but_o the_o grace_n be_v want_v if_o a_o man_n be_v every_o day_n on_o the_o exchange_n and_o there_o talk_v diligent_o and_o earnest_o about_o merchandise_n and_o the_o affair_n of_o trade_n but_o when_o he_o come_v home_n think_v no_o more_o of_o they_o because_o indeed_o he_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v no_o interest_n in_o they_o he_o may_v be_v a_o very_a poor_a man_n notwithstanding_o his_o pretence_n and_o he_o may_v be_v spiritual_o very_o poor_a who_o be_v on_o occasion_n fervent_a in_o prayer_n if_o when_o he_o retire_v unto_o himself_o he_o be_v not_o careful_a and_o diligent_a about_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o 4._o when_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o due_a preparation_n of_o heart_n unto_o the_o duty_n do_v excite_v and_o animate_v the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n and_o not_o the_o gift_n make_v impression_n on_o the_o affection_n then_o be_v we_o spiritual_o mind_a therein_o gift_n be_v servant_n not_o ruler_n in_o the_o mind_n be_v bestow_v on_o we_o to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o grace_n not_o to_o lead_v it_o but_o to_o follow_v it_o and_o to_o be_v ready_a with_o their_o assistance_n on_o its_o exercise_n for_o the_o most_o part_n where_o they_o lead_v all_o they_o be_v all_o alone_a this_o be_v the_o natural_a order_n of_o these_o thing_n grace_n habitual_o incline_v and_o dispose_v the_o heart_n unto_o this_o duty_n providence_n and_o rule_n give_v the_o occasion_n for_o its_o excercise_n sense_n of_o duty_n call_v for_o preparation_n grace_n come_v into_o actual_a exercise_n gift_n come_v in_o with_o their_o assistance_n if_o they_o lead_v all_o all_o be_v out_o of_o order_n it_o may_v be_v otherwise_o sometime_o a_o person_n indispose_v and_o lifeless_a engage_v into_o prayer_n in_o a_o way_n of_o obedience_n upon_o conviction_n of_o duty_n may_v in_o and_o by_o the_o gift_n have_v his_o affection_n excite_v and_o grace_n engage_v unto_o its_o proper_a work_n it_o may_v be_v so_o i_o say_v but_o let_v man_n take_v heed_n how_o they_o trust_v unto_o this_o order_n and_o method_n for_o where_o it_o be_v so_o there_o may_v be_v little_a or_o nothing_o of_o the_o exercise_n of_o true_a grace_n in_o all_o their_o fervour_n and_o commotion_n of_o affection_n but_o when_o the_o genuine_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n holy_a reverence_n and_o gracious_a desire_n do_v stir_v up_o the_o gift_n unto_o its_o exercise_n call_v in_o its_o assistance_n unto_o the_o expression_n of_o themselves_o then_o be_v the_o heart_n and_o mind_n in_o their_o proper_a order_n 5._o it_o be_v so_o when_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n be_v equal_o regard_v and_o attend_v unto_o with_o prayer_n itself_o he_o all_o who_o religion_n lie_v in_o prayer_n and_o hearing_n have_v none_o at_o all_o god_n have_v a_o equal_a respect_n unto_o all_o other_o duty_n and_o so_o must_v we_o have_v also_o so_o be_v it_o express_v as_o unto_o the_o instance_n of_o alm_n act_v 10.31_o and_o james_n place_v all_o religion_n herein_o because_o there_o be_v none_o without_o it_o jam._n 1.27_o i_o shall_v not_o value_v his_o prayer_n at_o all_o be_v he_o never_o so_o earnest_a and_o frequent_a in_o they_o who_o give_v not_o alm_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n and_o this_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n be_v require_v of_o we_o who_o be_v minister_n that_o we_o be_v not_o like_o a_o hand_n set_v up_o in_o cross_a way_n direct_v other_o which_o way_n to_o go_v but_o stay_v behind_o itself_o this_o digression_n about_o the_o rise_n and_o spring_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n in_o prayer_n i_o judge_v not_o unnecessary_a in_o such_o a_o time_n and_o season_n wherein_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v very_o jealous_a lest_o gift_n impose_v themselves_o in_o the_o room_n of_o grace_n and_o be_v careful_a that_o they_o be_v employ_v only_o unto_o their_o proper_a end_n which_o be_v to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o grace_n in_o its_o exercise_n and_o not_o otherwise_o 3._o there_o be_v another_o occasion_n of_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n when_o they_o do_v not_o spring_v from_o a_o live_a principle_n within_o and_o so_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o this_o be_v the_o discourse_n of_o other_o they_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n will_v be_v speak_v one_o to_o another_o of_o the_o thing_n wherein_o his_o glory_n be_v concern_v mal._n 3.16_o to_o declare_v the_o righteousness_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v the_o delight_n of_o his_o saint_n psal._n 145._o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o great_a be_v the_o lord_n and_o great_o to_o be_v praise_v and_o his_o greatness_n be_v unsearchable_a one_o generation_n shall_v praise_v thy_o work_n to_o another_o and_o shall_v declare_v thy_o mighty_a work_n i_o will_v speak_v of_o the_o glorious_a honour_n of_o thy_o majesty_n and_o of_o thy_o wondrous_a work_n and_o man_n shall_v speak_v of_o the_o might_n of_o thy_o terrible_a act_n and_o i_o will_v declare_v thy_o greatness_n they_o shall_v abundant_o utter_v the_o memory_n of_o thy_o great_a goodness_n and_o shall_v sing_v of_o thy_o righteousness_n the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a and_o full_a of_o compassion_n slow_a to_o anger_n and_o of_o great_a mercy_n and_o according_o there_o be_v some_o who_o be_v ready_a on_o all_o occasion_n to_o be_v speak_v or_o make_v mention_n of_o thing_n divine_a spiritual_a and_o holy_a and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o there_o be_v more_o of_o they_o all_o the_o flagitious_a sin_n that_o the_o world_n be_v fill_v withal_o be_v not_o a_o great_a evidence_n of_o the_o degeneracy_n of_o christian_a religion_n than_o this_o be_v that_o it_o be_v grow_v unusual_a yea_o a_o shame_n or_o scorn_v for_o man_n to_o speak_v together_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o so_o when_o religion_n be_v in_o its_o primitive_a power_n and_o glory_n nor_o be_v it_o so_o with_o they_o who_o real_o fear_v god_n and_o be_v sensible_a of_o their_o duty_n some_o i_o say_v there_o be_v who_o embrace_v all_o occasion_n of_o spiritual_a communication_n those_o with_o who_o they_o do_v converse_v if_o they_o be_v not_o profligate_v if_o they_o have_v any_o spiritual_a light_n can_v but_o so_o far_o comply_v with_o what_o they_o say_v as_o to_o think_v of_o the_o thing_n speak_v which_o be_v spiritual_a oft_o time_n the_o track_n and_o course_n of_o man_n thought_n lie_v so_o out_o of_o the_o way_n be_v so_o contrary_a unto_o such_o thing_n that_o they_o seem_v strange_a unto_o they_o they_o give_v they_o no_o entertainment_n you_o do_v but_o cross_v their_o way_n with_o such_o discourse_n whereon_o they_o stand_v still_o a_o little_a and_o
they_o in_o conjunction_n will_v bring_v in_o relief_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o your_o own_o peace_n without_o application_n by_o faith_n unto_o he_o who_o be_v able_a to_o succour_v they_o that_o be_v tempt_v wherefore_o 3._o herein_o lie_v your_o great_a duty_n with_o respect_n unto_o your_o temptation_n namely_o in_o a_o constant_a exercise_n of_o your_o thought_n on_o the_o love_n care_n compassion_n and_o tenderness_n of_o christ_n with_o his_o ability_n to_o help_v succour_n and_o save_v they_o that_o do_v believe_v so_o to_o strengthen_v your_o faith_n and_o trust_n in_o he_o which_o will_v prove_v assure_o successful_a and_o victorious_a the_o same_o duty_n be_v incumbent_a on_o we_o with_o respect_n unto_o any_o urgent_a prevalent_a general_a temptation_n there_o be_v season_n wherein_o a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n come_v on_o the_o earth_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v therein_o what_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v judge_v that_o now_o it_o be_v such_o a_o hour_n and_o that_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n be_v put_v forth_o therein_o what_o if_o he_o shall_v be_v persuade_v that_o a_o general_a security_n coldness_n deadness_n and_o decay_n in_o grace_n especial_o as_o to_o the_o vigorous_a act_n of_o zeal_n love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n with_o a_o indifferency_n unto_o holy_a duty_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o this_o hour_n of_o temptation_n i_o do_v not_o say_v determinate_o that_o so_o it_o be_v let_v other_o judge_n as_o they_o see_v cause_n but_o if_o any_o one_o do_v so_o judge_v undoubted_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n to_o be_v exercise_v in_o his_o thought_n how_o he_o may_v escape_v in_o this_o day_n of_o trial_n and_o be_v count_v worthy_a to_o stand_v before_o the_o son_n of_o man._n he_o will_v find_v it_o his_o concernment_n to_o be_v conversant_a in_o his_o mind_n with_o the_o reason_n and_o motive_n unto_o watchfulness_n and_o how_o he_o may_v obtain_v such_o supply_n of_o grace_n as_o may_v effectual_o preserve_v he_o from_o such_o decay_n 3._o all_o thing_n in_o religion_n both_o in_o faith_n and_o practice_n be_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o such_o thought_n as_o they_o be_v propose_v or_o occur_v unto_o our_o mind_n in_o great_a variety_n on_o all_o sort_n of_o occasion_n so_o we_o ought_v to_o give_v they_o entertainment_n in_o our_o meditation_n to_o hear_v thing_n to_o have_v they_o propose_v unto_o we_o it_o may_v be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o a_o divine_a ordinance_n and_o to_o let_v they_o slip_v out_o or_o flow_v from_o we_o as_o water_n that_o be_v pour_v into_o a_o leak_a vessel_n be_v the_o ruin_n of_o many_o soul_n i_o shall_v therefore_o choose_v out_o some_o instance_n as_o be_v before_o propose_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o i_o judge_v that_o they_o who_o will_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v aught_o to_o abide_v and_o abound_v in_o thought_n concern_v they_o 1._o it_o be_v our_o duty_n great_o to_o mind_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o eternal_a thing_n both_o as_o unto_o their_o reality_n their_o present_a state_n and_o our_o future_a enjoyment_n of_o they_o herein_o consist_v the_o life_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o duty_n to_o be_v heavenly_a mind_a that_o be_v to_o mind_v the_o thing_n of_o heaven_n and_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a be_v all_o one_o or_o it_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a as_o unto_o its_o original_a and_o essence_n or_o the_o first_o proper_a act_n of_o it_o it_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o it_o as_o unto_o its_o growth_n and_o degree_n and_o it_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o it_o in_o experience_n nor_o do_v i_o understand_v how_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o a_o man_n to_o place_v his_o chief_a interest_n in_o thing_n above_o and_o not_o have_v many_o thought_n of_o they_o it_o be_v the_o great_a advice_n of_o the_o apostle_n on_o a_o supposition_n of_o our_o interest_n in_o christ_n and_o conformity_n unto_o he_o col._n 3.1_o 2._o if_o you_o then_o be_v rise_v with_o christ_n seek_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o where_o christ_n sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n set_v your_o affection_n or_o your_o thought_n mind_n much_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o it_o become_v those_o who_o through_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n be_v raise_v unto_o newness_n of_o life_n to_o have_v their_o thought_n exercise_v on_o the_o state_n of_o thing_n above_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n among_o they_o and_o the_o singular_a use_n of_o our_o prospect_n into_o these_o thing_n or_o our_o meditation_n on_o they_o he_o instruct_v we_o in_o 2_o cor._n 4.16_o 17_o 18._o for_o which_o cause_n we_o faint_v not_o but_o though_o our_o outward_a man_n perish_v yet_o the_o inward_a man_n be_v renew_v day_n by_o day_n for_o our_o light_a affliction_n which_o be_v but_o for_o a_o moment_n work_v for_o we_o a_o far_o more_o exceed_a and_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n whilst_o we_o look_v not_o at_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v see_v but_o at_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o see_v for_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v see_v be_v temporal_a but_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o see_v be_v eternal_a not_o to_o faint_v under_o the_o daily_a decay_n of_o our_o outward_a man_n and_o the_o approach_n of_o death_n thereby_o to_o bear_v affliction_n as_o thing_n light_a and_o momentary_a to_o thrive_v under_o all_o in_o the_o inward_a man_n be_v unspeakable_a mercy_n and_o privilege_n can_v you_o attain_v a_o better_a frame_n be_v there_o any_o thing_n that_o you_o will_v more_o desire_v if_o you_o be_v believer_n be_v it_o not_o better_a to_o have_v such_o a_o mind_n in_o we_o than_o to_o enjoy_v all_o the_o peace_n and_o security_n that_o the_o world_n can_v afford_v one_o principal_a mean_n whereby_o we_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o these_o thing_n be_v a_o due_a meditation_n on_o thing_n unseen_a and_o eternal_a these_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v within_o the_o veil_n whereon_o we_o ought_v to_o cast_v the_o anchor_n of_o our_o hope_n in_o all_o the_o storm_n we_o meet_v withal_o heb._n 6.19_o 20._o whereof_o we_o shall_v speak_v more_o afterward_o without_o doubt_v the_o generality_n of_o christian_n be_v great_o defective_a in_o this_o duty_n partly_o for_o want_v of_o light_n into_o they_o partly_o for_o want_v of_o delight_n in_o they_o they_o think_v little_a of_o a_o eternal_a country_n wherever_o man_n be_v they_o do_v not_o use_v to_o neglect_v thought_n of_o that_o country_n wherein_o their_o inheritance_n lie_v if_o they_o be_v absent_a from_o it_o for_o a_o season_n yet_o will_v they_o labour_v to_o acquaint_v themselves_o with_o the_o principal_a concernment_n of_o it_o but_o this_o heavenly_a country_n wherein_o lie_v our_o eternal_a inheritance_n be_v not_o regard_v man_n do_v not_o as_o they_o ought_v exercise_v themselves_o unto_o thought_n of_o thing_n eternal_a and_o invisible_a it_o be_v impossible_a if_o they_o do_v so_o that_o their_o mind_n shall_v be_v so_o earthly_a and_o their_o affection_n cleave_v so_o as_o they_o do_v unto_o present_a thing_n he_o that_o look_v steady_o on_o the_o sun_n although_o he_o can_v bear_v the_o lustre_n of_o its_o beam_n full_o yet_o his_o sight_n be_v so_o affect_v with_o it_o that_o when_o he_o call_v off_o his_o eye_n from_o it_o he_o can_v see_v nothing_o as_o it_o be_v of_o the_o thing_n about_o he_o they_o be_v all_o dark_a unto_o he_o and_o he_o who_o look_v steady_o in_o his_o contemplation_n on_o thing_n above_o eternal_a thing_n though_o he_o can_v comprehend_v their_o glory_n yet_o a_o veil_n will_v be_v cast_v by_o it_o on_o all_o the_o desirable_a beauty_n of_o earthly_a thing_n and_o take_v off_o his_o affection_n from_o they_o man_n live_v and_o act_v under_o the_o power_n of_o a_o conviction_n that_o there_o be_v a_o state_n of_o immortality_n and_o glory_n to_o come_v with_o a_o persuasion_n hereof_o they_o much_o relieve_v themselves_o in_o their_o sorrow_n suffering_n and_o temptation_n yet_o with_o many_o it_o be_v only_o a_o reserve_v when_o they_o can_v be_v here_o no_o more_o but_o as_o unto_o daily_a contemplation_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o cause_n of_o it_o or_o as_o unto_o any_o entrance_n into_o it_o by_o faith_n and_o hope_n the_o most_o be_v stranger_n thereunto_o if_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v nothing_o will_v be_v more_o natural_a unto_o we_o than_o to_o have_v many_o thought_n of_o eternal_a thing_n as_o those_o wherein_o all_o our_o own_o principal_n concern_v do_v lie_n as_o well_o as_o those_o which_o be_v excellent_a and_o glorious_a in_o themselves_o the_o direction_n thereon_o be_v that_o we_o will_v make_v heavenly_a thing_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o blessedness_n and_o glory_n a_o principal_a object_n of_o our_o thought_n that_o we_o will_v think_v much_o about_o they_o that_o we_o
and_o will_v not_o be_v thorough_o cure_v in_o any_o but_o by_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o this_o part_n of_o spiritual-mindedness_a there_o be_v other_o duty_n require_v also_o unto_o the_o same_o end_n namely_o of_o the_o mortification_n of_o our_o desire_n and_o affection_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n whereof_o i_o have_v treat_v elsewhere_o but_o without_o this_o or_o a_o fix_a contemplation_n on_o the_o desirableness_n beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n it_o will_v not_o be_v attain_v further_o to_o evince_v the_o truth_n hereof_o we_o may_v observe_v these_o two_o thing_n first_o if_o by_o any_o mean_v a_o man_n do_v seem_v to_o have_v take_v off_o his_o heart_n from_o the_o love_n of_o present_a thing_n and_o be_v not_o at_o the_o same_o time_n take_v up_o with_o the_o love_n of_o thing_n that_o be_v heavenly_a his_o seem_a mortification_n be_v of_o no_o advantage_n unto_o he_o so_o person_n frequent_o through_o discontent_n disappointment_n or_o dissatisfaction_n with_o relation_n or_o mere_a natural_a weariness_n have_v leave_v the_o world_n the_o affair_n and_o care_n of_o it_o as_o unto_o their_o wont_a conversation_n in_o it_o and_o have_v betake_v themselves_o to_o monastery_n convent_v or_o other_o retirement_n suit_v their_o principle_n without_o any_o advantage_n to_o their_o soul_n second_o god_n be_v no_o such_o severe_a lord_n and_o master_n as_o to_o require_v we_o to_o take_v off_o our_o affection_n from_o and_o mortify_v they_o unto_o those_o thing_n which_o the_o law_n of_o our_o nature_n make_v dear_a unto_o we_o as_o wife_n child_n house_n land_n and_o possession_n and_o not_o propose_v unto_o we_o somewhat_o that_o be_v incomparable_o more_o excellent_a to_o fix_v they_o upon_o so_o he_o invite_v the_o elect_a of_o the_o gentile_n unto_o christ_n psal._n 45.10_o harken_v o_o daughter_n and_o consider_v and_o incline_v thy_o ear_n forget_v also_o thy_o own_o people_n and_o thy_o father_n house_n that_o be_v come_v into_o the_o faith_n of_o abraham_n who_o forsake_v his_o country_n and_o his_o father_n house_n to_o follow_v god_n whither_o ever_o he_o please_v but_o he_o propose_v this_o for_o their_o encouragement_n ver_fw-la 11._o so_o shall_v the_o king_n great_o desire_v thy_o beauty_n for_o he_o be_v thy_o lord_n and_o worship_n thou_o he_o the_o love_n of_o the_o great_a king_n be_v a_o abundant_a satisfactory_a recompense_n for_o part_v with_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n so_o when_o abraham_n servant_n be_v send_v to_o take_v rebecka_n for_o a_o wife_n unto_o isaac_n he_o require_v that_o she_o shall_v immediate_o leave_v father_n and_o mother_n brother_n and_o all_o enjoyment_n and_o go_v along_o with_o he_o but_o withal_o that_o she_o may_v know_v herself_o to_o be_v no_o loser_n thereby_o he_o not_o only_o assure_v she_o of_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o master_n but_o also_o at_o present_a he_o give_v her_o jewel_n of_o silver_n and_o jewel_n of_o gold_n and_o raiment_n gen._n 24.53_o and_o when_o our_o saviour_n require_v that_o we_o shall_v part_v with_o all_o for_o his_o sake_n and_o the_o gospel_n he_o promise_v a_o hundred_o fold_v in_o lieu_n of_o they_o even_o in_o this_o life_n namely_o in_o a_o interest_n in_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a wherefore_o without_o a_o assiduous_a meditation_n on_o heavenly_a thing_n as_o a_o better_a more_o noble_a and_o suitable_a object_n for_o our_o affection_n to_o be_v fix_v on_o we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n from_o a_o inordinate_a love_n of_o the_o thing_n here_o below_o it_o be_v sad_a to_o see_v some_o professor_n who_o will_v keep_v up_o spiritual_a duty_n in_o church_n and_o in_o their_o family_n who_o will_v speak_v and_o discourse_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o keep_v themselves_o from_o the_o open_a excess_n of_o the_o world_n yet_o when_o they_o come_v to_o be_v try_v by_o such_o duty_n as_o entrench_v on_o their_o love_n and_o adherence_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n quick_o manifest_a how_o remote_a they_o be_v from_o be_v spiritually-minded_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n be_v they_o to_o be_v try_v as_o our_o saviour_n try_v the_o young_a man_n who_o make_v such_o a_o profession_n of_o his_o conscientious_a and_o religious_a conversation_n go_v sell_v what_o thou_o have_v give_v to_o the_o poor_a and_o follow_v i_o something_o may_v be_v plead_v in_o excuse_n for_o their_o tergiversation_n but_o alas_o they_o will_v decline_v their_o duty_n when_o they_o be_v not_o touch_v unto_o the_o hundred_o part_n of_o their_o enjoyment_n i_o bless_v god_n i_o speak_v not_o thus_o of_o many_o of_o my_o own_o knowledge_n and_o may_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n unto_o the_o most_o unto_o who_o i_o usual_o speak_v in_o this_o manner_n but_o belove_a we_o be_v persuade_v better_a thing_n of_o you_o and_o thing_n that_o accompany_v salvation_n though_o we_o thus_o speak_v heb._n 6.9_o yea_o the_o same_o testimony_n may_v be_v give_v of_o many_o in_o this_o city_n which_o the_o same_o apostle_n give_v unto_o the_o church_n of_o macedonia_n 2_o cor._n 8.1_o 2_o 3._o understand_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n bestow_v on_o the_o church_n of_o macedonia_n how_o that_o in_o a_o great_a trial_n of_o affliction_n the_o abundance_n of_o their_o joy_n and_o their_o poverty_n abound_v unto_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n for_o to_o their_o power_n and_o beyond_o their_o power_n they_o be_v willing_a of_o themselves_o there_o have_v be_v nothing_o do_v among_o we_o that_o may_v or_o can_v be_v boast_v of_o yet_o consider_v all_o circumstance_n it_o may_v be_v there_o have_v not_o be_v more_o instance_n of_o true_a evangelical_n charity_n in_o any_o age_n or_o place_n for_o these_o many_o year_n for_o they_o who_o have_v be_v but_o useful_a and_o helpful_a herein_o the_o lord_n remember_v they_o for_o good_a and_o spare_v they_o according_a to_o the_o multitude_n of_o his_o mercy_n it_o be_v true_a they_o have_v not_o many_o of_o they_o found_v college_n build_v hospital_n or_o raise_v work_n of_o state_n and_o magnificence_n for_o very_o many_o of_o they_o be_v such_o as_o who_o deep_a poverty_n comparative_o have_v abound_v unto_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n the_o bask_n and_o belly_n of_o multitude_n of_o poor_a and_o needy_a servant_n of_o christ_n have_v be_v warm_v and_o refresh_v by_o they_o blessing_n god_n for_o they_o thank_n be_v be_v to_o god_n say_v the_o apostle_n in_o this_o case_n for_o his_o unspeakable_a gift_n 2_o cor._n 9.15_o bless_a be_v god_n who_o have_v not_o leave_v the_o gospel_n without_o this_o glory_n nor_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o without_o this_o evidence_n of_o its_o power_n and_o efficacy_n yea_o god_n have_v exalt_v the_o glory_n of_o persecution_n and_o affliction_n for_o many_o since_o they_o have_v lose_v much_o of_o their_o enjoyment_n by_o they_o and_o have_v all_o endanger_v continual_o have_v abound_v in_o duty_n of_o charity_n beyond_o what_o they_o do_v in_o the_o day_n of_o their_o fullness_n and_o prosperity_n so_o out_o of_o the_o eater_n there_o have_v come_v forth_o meat_n and_o if_o the_o world_n do_v but_o know_v what_o fruit_n in_o a_o way_n of_o charity_n and_o bounty_n unto_o the_o praise_n of_o god_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o gospel_n have_v be_v occasion_v by_o their_o make_v many_o poor_a it_o will_v abate_v of_o their_o satisfaction_n in_o their_o success_n but_o with_o many_o it_o be_v not_o so_o their_o mind_n be_v so_o full_a of_o earthly_a thing_n they_o do_v so_o cleave_v unto_o they_o in_o their_o affection_n that_o no_o sense_n of_o duty_n no_o example_n of_o other_o no_o concernment_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n or_o the_o gospel_n can_v make_v any_o impression_n on_o they_o if_o there_o be_v yet_o in_o they_o so_o much_o life_n and_o light_n of_o grace_n as_o to_o design_n a_o deliverance_n from_o this_o woeful_a condition_n the_o mean_n insist_v on_o must_v be_v make_v use_n of_o especial_o this_o advice_n be_v needful_a unto_o those_o who_o be_v rich_a who_o have_v large_a possession_n or_o abound_v in_o the_o good_n of_o this_o world_n the_o poor_a the_o afflict_a the_o sorrowful_a be_v prompt_v from_o their_o outward_a circumstance_n as_o well_o as_o excite_v by_o inward_a grace_n frequent_o to_o remember_v and_o to_o think_v of_o the_o thing_n above_o wherein_o lie_v their_o only_a reserve_n and_o relief_n against_o the_o trouble_n and_o urgency_n of_o their_o present_a condition_n but_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o these_o thing_n in_o abundance_n be_v accompany_v with_o a_o twofold_n evil_n lie_v direct_o contrary_a unto_o this_o duty_n 1._o a_o desire_n of_o increase_n and_o add_v thereunto_o earthly_a enjoyment_n enlarge_v man_n earthly_a desire_n and_o the_o love_n of_o they_o grow_v with_o their_o income_n a_o moderate_a stock_n of_o water_n sufficient_a for_o our_o use_n may_v be_v keep_v within_o ordinary_a
to_o look_v after_o blessedness_n in_o such_o thing_n as_o alone_o be_v suit_v unto_o its_o rational_a constitution_n for_o if_o it_o do_v they_o will_v place_v their_o happiness_n and_o blessedness_n in_o they_o wherefore_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o artifice_n of_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n to_o blind_v the_o eye_n of_o man_n unto_o their_o eternal_a destruction_n 3._o some_o of_o the_o philosopher_n of_o old_a do_v attain_v a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o blessedness_n of_o man_n in_o another_o world_n do_v consist_v in_o the_o soul_n full_a satisfaction_n in_o the_o goodness_n and_o beauty_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o there_o be_v a_o truth_n in_o this_o notion_n which_o contemplative_a man_n have_v adorn_v with_o excellent_a and_o rational_a discourse_n and_o sundry_a who_o have_v be_v and_o be_v learned_a among_o christian_n have_v great_o improve_v this_o truth_n by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o scripture_n from_o reason_n they_o take_v up_o with_o thought_n of_o the_o goodness_n the_o amiableness_n the_o selfsufficiency_n the_o alsufficient_a satisfactoriness_n of_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n these_o thing_n shine_v in_o themselves_o with_o such_o a_o glorious_a light_n as_o that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o require_v unto_o a_o perception_n of_o they_o but_o that_o man_n do_v not_o wilful_o shut_v their_o eye_n against_o it_o through_o bestial_a sensuality_n and_o love_n of_o sin_n from_o reason_n also_o do_v they_o frame_v their_o conception_n concern_v the_o capacity_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n for_o the_o immediate_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n and_o what_o be_v suit_v therein_o unto_o their_o utmost_a blessedness_n no_o more_o be_v require_v unto_o these_o thing_n but_o a_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n and_o man_n with_o our_o relation_n unto_o he_o and_o dependence_n on_o he_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o scripture_n they_o frame_v these_o thing_n into_o that_o which_o they_o call_v the_o beatifical_a vision_n whereby_o they_o intend_v all_o the_o way_n whereby_o god_n in_o the_o high_a and_o immediate_a instance_n can_v and_o do_v communicate_v of_o himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o the_o utmost_a elevation_n of_o their_o intellectual_a capacity_n to_o receive_v those_o communication_n it_o be_v such_o a_o intellectual_a apprehension_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o perfection_n with_o ineffable_a love_n as_o gives_z the_o soul_n the_o utmost_a rest_n and_o blessedness_n which_o its_o capacity_n can_v extend_v unto_o these_o thing_n be_v so_o and_o they_o have_v be_v by_o many_o both_o pious_o and_o elegant_o illustrate_v howbeit_o they_o be_v above_o the_o capacity_n of_o ordinary_a christian_n they_o know_v not_o how_o to_o manage_v they_o in_o their_o mind_n nor_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o they_o they_o can_v reduce_v they_o unto_o present_a usefulness_n nor_o make_v they_o subservient_fw-fr unto_o the_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o grace_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o scripture_n give_v we_o another_o notion_n of_o heaven_n and_o glory_n not_o contrary_a unto_o this_o not_o inconsistent_a with_o it_o but_o more_o suit_v unto_o the_o faith_n and_o experience_n of_o believer_n and_o which_o alone_o can_v convey_v a_o true_a and_o useful_a sense_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o our_o mind_n this_o therefore_o be_v diligent_o to_o be_v inquire_v into_o and_o firm_o state_v in_o our_o thought_n and_o affection_n 4._o the_o principal_a notion_n which_o the_o scripture_n give_v we_o of_o the_o state_n of_o heavenly_a blessedness_n and_o which_o the_o mean_a believer_n be_v capable_a of_o improve_n in_o daily_a practice_n be_v that_o faith_n shall_v be_v turn_v into_o sight_n and_o grace_n into_o glory_n we_o walk_v now_o by_o faith_n and_o not_o by_o sight_n say_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 5.7_o wherefore_o this_o be_v the_o difference_n between_o our_o present_a and_o our_o future_a state_n that_o sight_n hereafter_o shall_v supply_v the_o room_n of_o faith_n 1_o joh._n 3.2_o and_o if_o sight_n come_v into_o the_o place_n of_o faith_n than_o the_o object_n of_o that_o sight_n must_v be_v the_o same_o with_o the_o present_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n so_o the_o apostle_n inform_v we_o 1_o cor._n 13.9.10_o 12._o for_o we_o know_v in_o part_n and_o when_o we_o prophesy_v in_o part_n but_o when_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a be_v come_v that_o which_o be_v in_o part_n shall_v be_v do_v away_o for_o now_o we_o see_v through_o a_o glass_n dark_o but_o then_o face_n to_o face_n those_o thing_n which_o we_o see_v now_o dark_o as_o in_o a_o glass_n we_o shall_v then_o have_v a_o immediate_a sight_n and_o full_a comprehension_n of_o for_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a must_v come_v and_o do_v away_o that_o which_o be_v in_o part_n what_o then_o be_v the_o principal_a present_a object_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o be_v evangelical_n into_o who_o room_n sight_n must_v succeed_v be_v it_o not_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n grace_n love_n kindness_n and_o power_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o revelation_n of_o the_o eternal_a counsel_n of_o his_o will_n and_o the_o way_n of_o their_o accomplishment_n unto_o the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o the_o church_n in_o and_o by_o he_o with_o the_o glorious_a exaltation_n of_o christ_n himself_o wherefore_o in_o the_o full_a satisfactory_a representation_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o our_o soul_n receive_v by_o sight_n or_o a_o direct_a immediate_a intuition_n of_o they_o do_v the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n principal_o consist_v we_o behold_v they_o now_o dark_o as_o in_o a_o glass_n that_o be_v the_o utmost_a which_o by_o faith_n we_o can_v attain_v unto_o in_o heaven_n they_o shall_v be_v open_o and_o full_o display_v the_o infinite_a incomprehensible_a excellency_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n be_v not_o propose_v in_o scripture_n as_o the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n nor_o shall_v they_o be_v so_o unto_o sight_n in_o heaven_n the_o manifestation_n of_o they_o in_o christ_n be_v the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n here_o and_o shall_v be_v of_o our_o sight_n hereafter_o only_o through_o this_o manifestation_n of_o they_o we_o be_v lead_v even_o by_o faith_n ultimate_o to_o acquiesce_v in_o they_o as_o we_o shall_v in_o heaven_n be_v lead_v by_o love_n perfect_o to_o adhere_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n ineffable_a this_o be_v our_o immediate_a objective_n glory_n in_o heaven_n we_o hope_v for_o no_o other_o and_o this_o if_o god_n will_v i_o shall_v short_o more_o full_o explain_v whoever_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o have_v any_o experience_n of_o the_o life_n power_n and_o sweetness_n of_o these_o heavenly_a thing_n unto_o who_o they_o be_v a_o spring_n of_o grace_n and_o consolation_n they_o be_v able_a to_o meditate_v on_o the_o glory_n of_o they_o in_o their_o full_a enjoyment_n think_v much_o of_o heaven_n as_o that_o which_o will_v give_v you_o a_o perfect_a view_n and_o comprehension_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o those_o other_o thing_n which_o shall_v be_v immediate_o declare_v some_o perhaps_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v that_o if_o this_o be_v heaven_n they_o can_v see_v no_o great_a glory_n in_o it_o no_o such_o beauty_n as_o for_o which_o it_o shall_v be_v desire_v it_o may_v be_v so_o for_o some_o have_v no_o instrument_n to_o take_v a_o view_n of_o invisible_a thing_n but_o carnal_a imagination_n some_o have_v no_o light_n no_o principle_n no_o disposition_n of_o mind_n or_o soul_n whereunto_o these_o thing_n be_v either_o acceptable_a or_o suitable_a some_o will_v go_v no_o further_o in_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o god_n and_o the_o faculty_n and_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n than_o reason_n will_v guide_v they_o which_o may_v be_v of_o use_n but_o we_o look_v for_o no_o other_o heaven_n we_o desire_v none_o but_o what_o we_o be_v lead_v unto_o and_o prepare_v for_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o which_o shall_v perfect_v all_o the_o beginning_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o we_o not_o what_o shall_v be_v quite_o of_o another_o nature_n and_o destructive_a of_o they_o we_o value_v not_o that_o heaven_n which_o be_v equal_o suit_v unto_o the_o desire_v and_o inclination_n of_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n as_o well_o as_o of_o the_o best_a for_o we_o know_v that_o they_o who_o like_v not_o grace_n here_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v like_v that_o which_o be_v glory_n hereafter_o no_o man_n who_o be_v not_o acquaint_v experimental_o in_o some_o measure_n with_o the_o life_n power_n and_o evidence_n of_o faith_n here_o have_v any_o other_o heaven_n in_o his_o aim_n but_o what_o be_v erect_v in_o his_o own_o imagination_n the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n which_o the_o gospel_n prepare_v we_o for_o which_o faith_n lead_v and_o conduct_n we_o unto_o
and_o make_v our_o soul_n meet_v for_o the_o reception_n and_o entertainment_n of_o he_o wherefore_o 3._o our_o want_n of_o experience_n in_o the_o power_n of_o this_o holy_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n arise_v principal_o from_o our_o defect_n in_o this_o duty_n i_o have_v know_v one_o who_o after_o a_o long_a profession_n of_o faith_n and_o holiness_n fall_v into_o great_a darkness_n and_o distress_n mere_o on_o this_o account_n that_o he_o do_v not_o experience_n in_o himself_o the_o sweetness_n life_n and_o power_n of_o the_o testimony_n give_v concern_v the_o real_a communication_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n unto_o and_o the_o intimation_n of_o his_o presence_n with_o believer_n he_o know_v well_o enough_o the_o doctrine_n of_o it_o but_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o it_o at_o least_o he_o understand_v there_o be_v more_o in_o it_o than_o he_o have_v experience_n of_o god_n carry_v he_o by_o faith_n through_o that_o darkness_n but_o teach_v he_o withal_o that_o no_o sense_n of_o these_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v let_v into_o the_o soul_n but_o by_o constant_a thoughtfulness_n and_o contemplation_n on_o christ._n how_o many_o bless_a visit_n do_v we_o lose_v by_o not_o be_v exercise_v unto_o this_o duty_n see_v cant._n 5.1_o 2_o 3._o sometime_o we_o be_v busy_a sometime_o careless_a and_o negligent_a sometime_o slothful_a sometime_o under_o the_o power_n of_o temptation_n so_o that_o we_o neither_o inquire_v after_o nor_o be_v ready_a to_o receive_v they_o this_o be_v not_o the_o way_n to_o have_v our_o joy_n abound_v again_o i_o speak_v now_o with_o especial_a respect_n unto_o he_o in_o heaven_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o presence_n as_o god_n and_o man_n eternal_o unite_v the_o discharge_v of_o his_o mediatory_a office_n as_o he_o be_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o present_a act_n for_o the_o church_n as_o he_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n and_o the_o true_a tabernacle_n which_o god_n have_v fix_v and_o not_o man_n the_o love_n power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o his_o intercession_n whereby_o he_o take_v care_n for_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o church_n the_o approach_n of_o his_o glorious_a come_n unto_o judgement_n be_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o daily_a thought_n and_o meditation_n let_v we_o not_o mistake_v ourselves_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v be_v not_o to_o have_v the_o notion_n and_o knowledge_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o mind_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v constant_a no_o not_o to_o abound_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n both_o which_o may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n at_o all_o it_o be_v to_o have_v our_o mind_n real_o exercise_v with_o delight_n about_o heavenly_a thing_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o especial_o christ_n himself_o as_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n again_o so_o think_v of_o eternal_a thing_n as_o continual_o to_o lay_v they_o in_o the_o balance_n against_o all_o the_o suffering_n of_o this_o life_n this_o use_n of_o it_o i_o have_v speak_v unto_o somewhat_o before_o and_o it_o be_v necessary_a it_o shall_v be_v press_v upon_o all_o occasion_n it_o be_v very_o probable_a that_o we_o shall_v yet_o suffer_v more_o than_o we_o have_v do_v those_o who_o have_v go_v before_o we_o have_v do_v so_o it_o be_v foretell_v in_o the_o scripture_n that_o if_o we_o will_v live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n we_o must_v do_v so_o we_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o it_o and_o the_o world_n be_v prepare_v to_o bring_v it_o on_o we_o and_o as_o we_o must_v suffer_v so_o it_o be_v necessary_a unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o our_o own_o salvation_n that_o we_o suffer_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n mere_a suffering_n will_v neither_o commend_v we_o unto_o god_n nor_o any_o way_n advantage_n our_o own_o soul_n when_o we_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o eminent_a grace_n gift_n and_o privilege_n psal._n 1.29_o but_o many_o thing_n be_v require_v hereunto_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o that_o man_n suppose_v themselves_o to_o suffer_v for_o conscience_n sake_n though_o if_o we_o do_v not_o so_o all_o our_o suffering_n be_v in_o vain_a nor_o be_v it_o enough_o that_o we_o suffer_v for_o this_o or_o that_o way_n of_o profession_n in_o religion_n which_o we_o esteem_v to_o be_v true_a and_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o opposition_n unto_o what_o be_v not_o so_o the_o glory_n of_o suffering_n on_o these_o account_n sole_o have_v be_v much_o sully_v in_o the_o day_n wherein_o we_o live_v it_o be_v evident_a that_o person_n out_o of_o a_o natural_a courage_n accompany_v with_o deep_a radicate_a persuasion_n and_o have_v their_o mind_n influence_v with_o some_o sinister_a end_n may_v undergo_v thing_n hard_a and_o difficult_a in_o give_v testimony_n unto_o what_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n example_n we_o have_v have_v hereof_o in_o all_o age_n and_o in_o that_o wherein_o we_o live_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n see_v 1_o pet._n 4.14_o 15_o 16._o we_o have_v have_v enough_o to_o take_v off_o all_o paint_n and_o appearance_n of_o honour_n from_o they_o who_o in_o their_o suffering_n be_v deceive_v in_o what_o they_o profess_v but_o man_n may_v from_o the_o same_o principle_n suffer_v for_o what_o be_v indeed_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n yea_o may_v give_v their_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v therein_o and_o yet_o not_o to_o his_o glory_n nor_o their_o own_o eternal_a advantage_n wherefore_o we_o be_v due_o to_o consider_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v requisite_a to_o make_v our_o suffering_n acceptable_a unto_o god_n and_o honourable_a unto_o the_o gospel_n i_o have_v observe_v in_o many_o a_o frame_n of_o spirit_n with_o respect_n unto_o suffering_n that_o i_o never_o see_v good_a event_n of_o when_o it_o be_v try_v to_o the_o uttermost_a boldness_n confidence_n a_o pretend_a contempt_n of_o hardship_n and_o scorn_v other_o man_n who_o they_o suppose_v defective_a in_o these_o thing_n be_v the_o garment_n or_o livery_n they_o wear_v on_o this_o occasion_n such_o principle_n may_v carry_v man_n out_o in_o a_o bad_a cause_n they_o will_v never_o do_v so_o in_o a_o good_a evangelical_n truth_n will_v not_o be_v honourable_o witness_v unto_o but_o by_o evangelical_n grace_n distrust_v of_o ourselves_o a_o due_a apprehension_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o evil_n to_o be_v undergo_v and_o of_o our_o own_o frailty_n with_o continual_a prayer_n to_o be_v deliver_v from_o they_o or_o support_v under_o they_o and_o prudent_a care_n to_o avoid_v they_o without_o a_o inroad_n on_o conscience_n or_o neglect_v of_o duty_n be_v much_o better_a preparation_n for_o a_o entrance_n into_o a_o state_n of_o suffer_v many_o thing_n belong_v unto_o our_o learning_n aright_o this_o first_o and_o last_o lesson_n of_o the_o gospel_n namely_o of_o bear_v the_o cross_n or_o undergo_a all_o sort_n of_o suffering_n for_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o but_o they_o belong_v not_o unto_o our_o present_a occasion_n this_o only_o be_v that_o which_o we_o now_o press_v as_o a_o evidence_n of_o our_o sincerity_n in_o our_o suffering_n and_o a_o effectual_a mean_n to_o enable_v we_o cheerful_o to_o undergo_v they_o which_o be_v to_o have_v such_o a_o continual_a prospect_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o glory_n so_o as_o to_o lay_v it_o in_o the_o balance_n against_o all_o that_o we_o may_v undergo_v for_o 1._o to_o have_v our_o mind_n fill_v and_o possess_v with_o thought_n thereof_o will_v give_v we_o a_o alacrity_n in_o our_o entrance_n into_o suffering_n in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n other_o consideration_n will_v offer_v themselves_o unto_o our_o relief_n which_o will_v quick_o fade_v and_o disappear_v they_o be_v like_o a_o cordial_a water_n which_o give_v a_o little_a relief_n for_o a_o season_n and_o then_o leave_v the_o spirit_n to_o sink_v beneath_o what_o they_o be_v before_o it_o be_v take_v some_o relieve_v themselves_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o suffering_n they_o be_v not_o so_o great_a but_o that_o they_o may_v conflict_n with_o they_o and_o come_v off_o with_o safety_n but_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o that_o kind_n so_o small_a which_o will_v not_o prove_v too_o hard_a and_o strong_a for_o we_o unless_o we_o have_v especial_a assistance_n some_o do_v the_o same_o from_o their_o duration_n they_o be_v but_o for_o ten_o day_n or_o six_o month_n and_o then_o they_o shall_v be_v free_a some_o from_o the_o compassion_n and_o esteem_n of_o men._n these_o and_o the_o like_a consideration_n be_v apt_a to_o occur_v unto_o the_o mind_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n whether_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v or_o no._n but_o when_o our_o mind_n be_v accustom_v unto_o thought_n of_o the_o glory_n that_o shall_v be_v
day_n of_o our_o trial_n this_o be_v the_o first_o thing_n wherein_o we_o may_v evidence_n ourselves_o unto_o ourselves_o to_o be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o mind_v of_o the_o spirit_n or_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o i_o have_v insist_v the_o long_a on_o it_o because_o it_o contain_v the_o first_o sensible_a egress_n of_o the_o spring_n of_o live_a water_n in_o we_o the_o first_o act_v of_o spiritual_a life_n unto_o our_o own_o experience_n i_o shall_v now_o proceed_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o our_o affection_n of_o who_o frame_n and_o state_n these_o thought_n be_v the_o only_a genuine_a exposition_n but_o whereas_o there_o be_v or_o may_v be_v some_o who_o be_v sensible_a of_o their_o own_o weakness_n and_o deficiency_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o that_o part_n of_o this_o duty_n in_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v which_o we_o have_v pass_v through_o and_o may_v fall_v under_o discouragement_n thereon_o we_o must_v follow_v he_o as_o we_o be_v able_a who_o will_v not_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n nor_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n by_o offer_v something_o unto_o the_o relief_n of_o they_o that_o be_v sincere_a under_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o own_o weakness_n chap._n x._o sundry_a thing_n tender_v unto_o such_o as_o complain_v that_o they_o know_v not_o how_o that_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o abide_v in_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o spiritual_a or_o heavenly_a thing_n for_o their_o relief_n instruction_n and_o direction_n rule_n concern_v state_v spiritual_a meditation_n some_o will_v say_v yea_o many_o on_o all_o occasion_n do_v say_v that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n in_o all_o their_o duty_n towards_o god_n wherein_o they_o be_v more_o at_o a_o loss_n than_o they_o be_v in_o this_o one_o of_o fix_v or_o exercise_v their_o thought_n or_o meditation_n on_o thing_n heavenly_a or_o spiritual_a they_o acknowledge_v knowledge_n it_o a_o duty_n they_o see_v a_o excellency_n in_o it_o with_o inexpressible_a usefulness_n but_o although_o they_o often_o try_v and_o attempt_v it_o they_o can_v attain_v unto_o any_o thing_n but_o what_o make_v they_o ashamed_a both_o of_o it_o and_o themselves_o their_o mind_n they_o find_v be_v unsteady_a apt_a to_o rove_v and_o wander_v or_o give_v entertainment_n unto_o other_o thing_n and_o not_o to_o abide_v on_o the_o object_n which_o they_o design_v their_o meditation_n towards_o their_o ability_n be_v small_a their_o invention_n barren_a their_o memory_n frail_a and_o their_o judgement_n to_o dispose_v of_o thing_n into_o right_a order_n weak_a and_o unable_a they_o know_v not_o what_o to_o think_v on_o for_o the_o most_o part_n and_o when_o they_o fix_v on_o any_o thing_n they_o be_v immediate_o at_o loss_n as_o unto_o any_o progress_n and_o so_o give_v over_o hence_o other_o thought_n or_o thought_n of_o other_o thing_n take_v advantage_n to_o impose_v themselves_o on_o they_o and_o what_o begin_v in_o spiritual_a meditation_n end_v in_o carnal_a vanity_n on_o these_o consideration_n ofttimes_o they_o be_v discourage_v to_o enter_v on_o the_o duty_n ofttimes_o give_v it_o over_o so_o soon_o as_o it_o be_v begin_v and_o be_v glad_a if_o they_o come_v off_o without_o be_v loser_n by_o their_o endeavour_n which_o often_o befall_v they_o with_o respect_n unto_o other_o duty_n it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o they_o unto_o such_o as_o be_v real_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n unto_o who_o their_o want_n and_o defect_n be_v a_o burden_n who_o mourn_v under_o it_o and_o desire_v to_o be_v free_v from_o it_o or_o refresh_v in_o their_o conflict_n with_o it_o i_o shall_v offer_v the_o thing_n that_o ensue_v 1._o that_o sense_n of_o the_o vanity_n of_o our_o mind_n which_o this_o consideration_n due_o attend_v unto_o will_v give_v we_o ought_v great_o to_o humble_a and_o abase_v our_o soul_n whence_o be_v it_o thus_o with_o we_o that_o we_o can_v abide_v in_o thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a it_o be_v because_o they_o be_v such_o thing_n as_o we_o have_v no_o great_a concernment_n in_o it_o may_v be_v they_o be_v thing_n worthless_a and_o unprofitable_a so_o that_o it_o be_v to_o purpose_n to_o spend_v our_o thought_n about_o they_o the_o truth_n be_v they_o alone_o be_v worthy_a useful_a and_o desirable_a all_o other_o thing_n in_o comparison_n of_o they_o be_v but_o loss_n and_o dung_n or_o it_o be_v because_o the_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v not_o original_o suit_v unto_o the_o contemplation_n of_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o this_o also_o be_v otherwise_o they_o be_v all_o give_v unto_o we_o all_o create_v of_o god_n for_o this_o end_n all_o fit_v with_o inclination_n and_o power_n to_o abide_v with_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n without_o aversation_n or_o weariness_n nothing_o be_v so_o natural_a easy_a and_o pleasant_a unto_o they_o as_o steadiness_n in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o work_n the_o cause_n therefore_o of_o all_o this_o evil_a lie_n at_o our_o own_o door_n all_o this_o therefore_o and_o all_o other_o evil_n come_v upon_o we_o by_o the_o entrance_n of_o sin_n and_o therefore_o solomon_n in_o his_o enquiry_n after_o all_o the_o cause_n and_o effect_n of_o vanity_n bring_v it_o under_o this_o head_n lo_o this_o only_o have_v i_o find_v that_o god_n make_v man_n upright_o but_o they_o have_v seek_v out_o many_o invention_n eccles._n 7.29_o for_o hereby_o our_o mind_n that_o be_v create_v in_o a_o state_n of_o bless_a adherence_n unto_o god_n where_o whole_o turn_v off_o from_o he_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o fill_v with_o enmity_n against_o he_o in_o this_o state_n that_o vanity_n which_o be_v prevalent_a in_o they_o be_v both_o their_o sin_n and_o their_o punishment_n their_o sin_n in_o a_o perpetual_a inclination_n unto_o thing_n vain_a foolish_a sensual_a and_o wicked_a so_o the_o apostle_n describe_v it_o at_o large_a ephes._n 4.17_o 18_o 19_o tit._n 3.3_o and_o their_o punishment_n in_o that_o be_v turn_v off_o from_o the_o chief_a good_a wherein_o alone_a rest_n be_v to_o be_v find_v they_o be_v fill_v with_o darkness_n confusion_n and_o disquietment_n be_v like_o a_o trouble_a sea_n that_o can_v rest_v who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt_n by_o grace_v our_o mind_n be_v renew_v that_o be_v change_v and_o deliver_v from_o this_o frame_n but_o they_o be_v so_o partial_o only_a the_o principle_n of_o vanity_n be_v no_o long_o predominant_a in_o we_o to_o alienate_v we_o from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n or_o to_o keep_v we_o in_o enmity_n against_o he_o those_o who_o be_v so_o renew_v do_v not_o walk_v in_o the_o vanity_n of_o their_o mind_n as_o other_o do_v ephes._n 4.17_o they_o go_v up_o and_o down_o in_o all_o their_o way_n and_o occasion_n with_o a_o stream_n of_o vain_a thought_n in_o their_o mind_n but_o the_o remainder_n of_o it_o be_v effectual_o operative_a in_o we_o in_o all_o the_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n towards_o god_n affect_v they_o with_o uncertainty_n and_o instability_n as_o he_o who_o have_v receive_v a_o great_a wound_n in_o any_o principal_a part_n of_o his_o body_n though_o it_o may_v be_v so_o cure_v as_o that_o death_n shall_v not_o immediate_o ensue_v thereon_o yet_o it_o may_v make_v he_o go_v weak_a and_o lame_a all_o his_o day_n and_o hinder_v he_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o the_o power_n of_o life_n the_o vanity_n of_o our_o mind_n be_v so_o cure_v as_o to_o deliver_v we_o from_o spiritual_a death_n but_o yet_o such_o a_o wound_n such_o a_o weakness_n do_v remain_v as_o both_o weaken_v and_o hinder_v we_o in_o all_o the_o operation_n of_o spiritual_a life_n hence_o those_o who_o have_v make_v any_o progress_n in_o grace_n be_v sensible_a of_o their_o vanity_n as_o the_o great_a burden_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o do_v groan_n after_o such_o a_o complete_a renovation_n of_o their_o mind_n as_o whereby_o they_o may_v be_v perfect_o free_v from_o it_o this_o be_v that_o which_o they_o principal_o regard_v in_o that_o complain_v desire_n rom._n 7.24_o o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o this_o body_n of_o death_n yea_o they_o groan_v under_o a_o sense_n of_o it_o every_o day_n nor_o be_v any_o thing_n such_o a_o trouble_n unto_o they_o observe_v how_o it_o defeat_v they_o in_o their_o design_n to_o contemplate_v on_o heavenly_a thing_n how_o it_o frustrate_v their_o best_a resolution_n to_o abide_v in_o the_o spiritual_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n how_o they_o be_v impose_v on_o by_o it_o with_o the_o thought_n of_o thing_n which_o either_o in_o themselves_o or_o in_o their_o consequence_n they_o most_o abhor_v nothing_o be_v they_o so_o afraid_a of_o nothing_o be_v so_o grievous_a and_o burdensome_a unto_o they_o nothing_o do_v they_o more_o groan_n for_o deliverance_n from_o when_o there_o be_v war_n
in_o any_o place_n it_o behove_v they_o that_o be_v concern_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n and_o regard_n unto_o all_o their_o enemy_n and_o their_o attempt_n against_o they_o but_o if_o they_o be_v vigilant_a and_o diligent_a in_o their_o oppositition_n unto_o those_o that_o be_v without_o that_o visible_o contend_v with_o they_o and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n neglect_v such_o as_o traitorous_o act_v within_o among_o themselves_o betray_v their_o counsel_n and_o weaken_v their_o strength_n they_o will_v be_v undoubted_o ruin_v wise_a man_n do_v first_o take_v care_n of_o what_o be_v within_o as_o know_v if_o they_o be_v there_o betray_v all_o they_o do_v against_o their_o open_a enemy_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n in_o the_o warfare_n wherein_o we_o be_v engage_v we_o have_v enemy_n of_o all_o sort_n that_o open_o and_o visible_o in_o various_a temptation_n fight_v against_o our_o soul_n these_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o watch_v against_o to_o conflict_n with_o and_o to_o seek_v a_o conquest_n over_o but_o it_o be_v this_o internal_a vanity_n of_o mind_n that_o endeavour_n in_o all_o thing_n to_o betray_v we_o to_o weaken_v we_o in_o all_o our_o grace_n or_o to_o hinder_v their_o due_a operation_n and_o to_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n unto_o our_o curse_a enemy_n if_o our_o principal_a endeavour_n be_v not_o to_o discover_v suppress_v and_o destroy_v this_o traitor_n we_o shall_v not_o succeed_v in_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n this_o therefore_o be_v the_o original_a cause_n of_o all_o that_o disabilty_a of_o mind_n as_o unto_o steadiness_n in_o holy_a thought_n and_o meditation_n whereof_o you_o do_v complain_v when_o you_o be_v affect_v therewith_o turn_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o that_o from_o whence_o it_o do_v proceed_v labour_v to_o be_v humble_v great_o and_o to_o walk_v humble_o under_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o remainder_n of_o this_o vanity_n of_o mind_n so_o some_o wholesome_a fruit_n may_v be_v take_v from_o this_o bitter_a root_n and_o meat_n may_v come_v out_o of_o this_o eater_n if_o when_o you_o can_v abide_v in_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o your_o relation_n unto_o he_o you_o reflect_v on_o this_o cause_n of_o it_o to_o your_o further_a humiliation_n and_o self-abasement_n your_o good_a design_n and_o purpose_n be_v not_o lose_v let_v such_o a_o one_o say_v i_o begin_v to_o think_v of_o god_n of_o his_o love_n and_o grace_n in_o christ_n jesus_n of_o my_o duty_n towards_o he_o and_o where_o now_o in_o a_o few_o minute_n do_v i_o find_v myself_o i_o be_o get_v into_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n into_o thing_n useless_a and_o earthly_a or_o be_o at_o such_o a_o loss_n as_o that_o i_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o proceed_v in_o the_o work_n wherein_o i_o be_v engage_v o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o what_o a_o curse_a enemy_n have_v i_o within_o i_o i_o be_o ashamed_a of_o myself_o weary_a of_o myself_o loathe_v myself_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o this_o body_n of_o death_n such_o thought_n may_v be_v as_o useful_a unto_o he_o as_o those_o which_o he_o first_o design_v true_a it_o be_v we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v absolute_o from_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o vanity_n and_o instability_n of_o mind_n in_o this_o world_n vnchangeable_n cleave_v unto_o god_n always_o in_o all_o the_o power_n and_o affection_n of_o our_o mind_n be_v reserve_v for_o heaven_n but_o yet_o great_a degree_n may_v be_v attain_v in_o the_o conquest_n and_o expulsion_n of_o it_o such_o as_o i_o fear_v few_o have_v experience_n of_o yet_o ought_v all_o to_o the_o labour_n after_o if_o we_o apply_v ourselves_o as_o we_o ought_v to_o the_o increase_n of_o spiritual_a light_n and_o grace_n if_o we_o labour_v diligent_o to_o abide_v and_o abound_v in_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o that_o in_o love_n to_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o if_o we_o watch_v against_o the_o entertainment_n and_o approbation_n of_o such_o thought_n and_o thing_n in_o our_o mind_n as_o whereby_o this_o vain_a frame_n be_v please_v and_o confirm_v there_o be_v though_o not_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n yet_o a_o bless_a degree_n of_o heavenly_a mindedness_n to_o be_v attain_v and_o therein_o the_o near_a approach_n unto_o glory_n that_o in_o this_o world_n we_o be_v capable_a of_o if_o a_o man_n can_v attain_v a_o athletic_a constitution_n of_o health_n or_o a_o strength_n like_o that_o of_o samson_n yet_o if_o he_o be_v wise_a he_o will_v not_o omit_v the_o use_n of_o such_o mean_n as_o may_v make_v he_o to_o be_v useful_a in_o the_o ordinary_a duty_n of_o life_n and_o although_o we_o can_v attain_v perfection_n in_o this_o matter_n which_o yet_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o be_v continual_o press_v after_o yet_o if_o we_o be_v wise_a will_v be_v endeavour_v such_o a_o cure_n of_o this_o spiritual_a distemper_n as_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o discharge_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o life_n of_o god_n but_o if_o man_n in_o all_o other_o thing_n feed_v the_o vanity_n of_o their_o own_o mind_n if_o they_o permit_v they_o to_o rove_v continual_o after_o thing_n foolish_a sensual_a and_o earthly_a if_o they_o wilful_o supply_v they_o with_o object_n unto_o that_o end_n and_o labour_v not_o by_o all_o mean_n for_o the_o mortification_n of_o this_o evil_a frame_n in_o vain_a shall_v they_o desire_v or_o expect_v to_o bring_v they_o at_o any_o time_n on_o any_o occasion_n to_o be_v steady_a in_o the_o thought_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n if_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o any_o as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v it_o be_v with_o many_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o mind_v the_o word_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o first_o place_n make_v the_o tree_n good_a and_o then_o the_o fruit_n will_v be_v good_a and_o not_o before_o when_o the_o power_n of_o sanctify_a grace_n have_v make_v the_o mind_n habitual_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thought_n of_o such_o thing_n will_v be_v natural_a unto_o it_o and_o accompany_v with_o delight_n but_o they_o will_v not_o be_v so_o until_o the_o god_n of_o peace_n have_v sanctify_v we_o in_o our_o whole_a spirit_n soul_n and_o body_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v preserve_v blameless_a unto_o the_o come_n of_o jesus_n christ._n 2._o be_v always_o sensible_a of_o your_o own_o insufficincy_n to_o raise_v in_o your_o mind_n or_o to_o manage_v spiritual_a thought_n or_o thought_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a in_o a_o due_a manner_n but_o in_o this_o case_n man_n be_v apt_a to_o suppose_v that_o as_o they_o may_v so_o they_o can_v think_v of_o what_o they_o please_v thought_n be_v their_o own_o and_o therefore_o be_v they_o of_o what_o sort_n they_o will_v they_o need_v no_o assistance_n for_o they_o they_o can_v think_v as_o they_o ought_v they_o can_v do_v nothing_o at_o all_o and_o nothing_o will_v convince_v they_o of_o their_o folly_n until_o they_o be_v burden_v with_o a_o experience_n of_o the_o contrary_a as_o unto_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o the_o advice_n give_v be_v express_o lay_v down_o by_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o instance_n of_o himself_o 2_o cor._n 3.5_o not_o that_o we_o be_v sufficient_a of_o ourselves_o to_o think_v any_o thing_n as_o of_o ourselves_o but_o our_o sufficiency_n be_v of_o god_n he_o speak_v principal_o of_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o of_o such_o as_o be_v most_o eminent_o furnish_v with_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o grace_n as_o he_o declare_v v_o 6._o and_o if_o it_o be_v so_o with_o they_o and_o that_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o work_n and_o duty_n of_o their_o call_v how_o much_o more_o be_v it_o so_o with_o other_o who_o have_v not_o their_o grace_n nor_o their_o office_n wherefore_o if_o man_n without_o regard_n unto_o the_o present_a actual_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o the_o supply_n of_o his_o spirit_n do_v suppose_v that_o they_o can_v of_o themselves_o exercise_v their_o mind_n in_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o so_o only_o fret_v at_o themselves_o when_o they_o fall_v into_o disappointment_n not_o know_v what_o be_v the_o matter_n with_o they_o they_o will_v live_v in_o a_o lifeless_a barren_a frame_n all_o their_o day_n by_o the_o strength_n of_o their_o natural_a ability_n man_n may_v frame_v thought_n of_o god_n and_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o their_o mind_n according_a unto_o the_o knowledge_n they_o have_v of_o they_o they_o may_v methodize_v they_o by_o rule_n of_o art_n and_o express_v they_o elegant_o unto_o other_o but_o even_o while_o they_o do_v so_o they_o may_v be_v far_o enough_o from_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o there_o may_v be_v in_o their_o thought_n no_o act_n of_o faith_n love_n or_o holy_a delight_n in_o god_n or_o any_o grace_n at_o all_o but_o such_o alone_o be_v thing_n which_o we_o inquire_v after_o they_o be_v such_o only_a as_o wherein_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n
predominant_a in_o we_o what_o if_o we_o miss_v in_o our_o measure_n and_o that_o which_o we_o approve_v of_o in_o ourselves_o shall_v be_v disapprove_v of_o god_n we_o be_v cast_v for_o ever_o we_o belong_v unto_o the_o world_n and_o with_o the_o world_n we_o shall_v perish_v it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o if_o it_o be_v so_o difficult_a to_o distinguish_v between_o these_o thing_n namely_o the_o lawful_a use_n of_o thing_n here_o below_o and_o their_o abuse_n the_o allowable_a industry_n about_o they_o and_o the_o inordinate_a love_n of_o they_o on_o the_o knowledge_n whereof_o our_o eternal_a condition_n depend_v it_o be_v impossible_a but_o man_n must_v spend_v their_o time_n in_o solicitous_a anxiety_n of_o mind_n as_o not_o know_v when_o they_o have_v aright_o discharge_v their_o duty_n ans._n 1_o i_o press_v these_o thing_n at_o present_a no_o further_o but_o only_o to_o show_v how_o dangerous_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v for_o any_o to_o incline_v in_o his_o affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n wherein_o a_o excess_n be_v ruinous_a and_o hardly_o discoverable_a sure_o no_o wiseman_n will_v venture_v free_o and_o frequent_o unto_o the_o edge_n of_o such_o a_o precipice_n he_o will_v be_v jealous_a of_o his_o measure_n lest_o they_o will_v not_o hold_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o a_o due_a sense_n hereof_o be_v the_o best_a preservative_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o cleave_v inordinate_o unto_o these_o thing_n below_o and_o when_o god_n in_o any_o instance_n by_o affliction_n or_o otherwise_o show_v unto_o believer_n their_o transgression_n herein_o and_o how_o they_o have_v exceed_v job_n 38.8_o 9_o it_o make_v they_o careful_a for_o the_o future_a they_o will_v now_o or_o never_o be_v diligent_a that_o they_o fall_v not_o under_o that_o peremptory_a rule_n 1_o joh._n 2.14_o second_o where_o the_o soul_n be_v upright_o and_o sincere_a there_o be_v no_o need_n in_o this_o case_n of_o any_o more_o solicitousness_n or_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n than_o there_o be_v unto_o or_o about_o other_o duty_n but_o when_o it_o be_v byase_v and_o act_v by_o self-love_n and_o its_o more_o strong_a inclination_n unto_o thing_n present_a it_o be_v impossible_a man_n shall_v enjoy_v solid_a peace_n or_o be_v free_v from_o severe_a reflection_n on_o they_o by_o their_o own_o conscience_n in_o such_o season_n wherein_o they_o be_v awaken_v unto_o their_o duty_n and_o the_o consideration_n of_o their_o state_n nor_o have_v i_o any_o thing_n to_o tender_v for_o their_o relief_n with_o other_o it_o be_v not_o so_o and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v so_o far_o digress_v in_o this_o place_n as_o to_o give_v some_o direction_n unto_o those_o who_o in_o sincerity_n will_v be_v satisfy_v in_o this_o lawful_a use_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o earthly_a thing_n so_o as_o not_o to_o adhere_v unto_o they_o with_o inordinate_a affection_n first_o remember_v always_o that_o you_o be_v not_o proprietor_n nor_o absolute_a possessor_n of_o these_o thing_n but_o only_a steward_n of_o they_o with_o respect_n unto_o man_n you_o be_v or_o may_v be_v just_a proprietor_n of_o what_o you_o enjoy_v with_o respect_n unto_o he_o who_o be_v the_o great_a possessor_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n you_o be_v but_o steward_n this_o stewardship_n we_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o as_o we_o be_v teach_v in_o the_o parable_n luk._n 16.1_o 2._o this_o rule_n always_o attend_v unto_o will_v be_v a_o bless_a guide_n in_o all_o instancss_n and_o occasion_n of_o duty_n but_o if_o a_o man_n be_v leave_v in_o trust_n with_o house_n and_o large_a possession_n as_o a_o steward_n for_o the_o right_a lord_n owner_n and_o proprietor_n of_o they_o if_o he_o fall_v into_o a_o please_a dream_n that_o they_o be_v all_o his_o own_o and_o use_v they_o according_o it_o will_v be_v a_o woeful_a surprisal_n unto_o he_o when_o he_o shall_v be_v call_v to_o account_v for_o all_o he_o have_v receive_v and_o lay_v out_o whether_o he_o will_v or_o no._n and_o when_o indeed_o he_o have_v nothing_o to_o pay_v it_o will_v scarce_o be_v otherwise_o with_o they_o at_o the_o great_a day_n who_o forget_v the_o trust_n which_o be_v commit_v to_o they_o and_o suppose_v they_o may_v do_v what_o they_o will_v with_o what_o they_o call_v their_o own_o second_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o way_n of_o get_v enjoy_v or_o use_v of_o these_o thing_n but_o give_v its_o own_o evidence_n unto_o spiritual_a wisdom_n whether_o it_o be_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o duty_n or_o no._n man_n be_v not_o light_o deceive_v herein_o but_o when_o they_o be_v evident_o under_o the_o power_n of_o corrupt_a affection_n or_o will_v not_o at_o all_o attend_v unto_o themselves_o and_o the_o language_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n it_o be_v a_o man_n own_o fault_n alone_o if_o he_o know_v not_o wherein_o he_o do_v exceed_v a_o due_a examination_n of_o ourselves_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n with_o respect_n unto_o these_o thing_n the_o frame_n and_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o they_o will_v great_o give_v check_n unto_o our_o corrupt_a inclination_n and_o discover_v the_o folly_n of_o those_o reason_n whereby_o we_o deceive_v ourselves_o into_o the_o love_n of_o earthly_a thing_n or_o justify_v ourselves_o therein_o and_o bring_v to_o light_v the_o secret_a principle_n of_o self-love_n which_o be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o this_o evil_n three_o if_o you_o will_v be_v able_a to_o make_v a_o right_a judgement_n in_o this_o case_n be_v sure_a that_o you_o have_v another_o object_n for_o your_o affection_n which_o have_v a_o predominant_a interest_n in_o your_o mind_n and_o which_o will_v evidence_n itself_o so_o to_o have_v on_o all_o occasion_n let_v a_o man_n be_v never_o so_o observant_a of_o himself_o as_o unto_o all_o outward_a duty_n require_v to_o he_o with_o respect_n unto_o these_o earthly_a thing_n let_v he_o be_v liberal_a in_o the_o disposal_n of_o they_o on_o all_o occasion_n let_v he_o be_v watchful_a against_o all_o intemperance_n and_o excess_n in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o yet_o if_o he_o have_v not_o another_o object_n for_o his_o affection_n which_o have_v a_o prevail_a influence_n upon_o they_o if_o they_o be_v not_o set_v upon_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o one_o way_n or_o other_o it_o be_v the_o world_n that_o have_v the_o possession_n of_o his_o heart_n for_o the_o affection_n of_o our_o mind_n will_v and_o must_v be_v place_v in_o chief_a on_o thing_n below_o or_o thing_n above_o there_o will_v be_v a_o predominant_a love_n in_o we_o and_o therefore_o although_o all_o our_o action_n shall_v testify_v another_o frame_n yet_o if_o god_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n be_v not_o the_o principal_a object_n of_o our_o affection_n by_o one_o way_n or_o other_o unto_o the_o world_n we_o do_v belong_v this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v teach_v we_o so_o express_o by_o our_o saviour_n luk._n 16.9_o 10_o 11_o 12_o 13._o and_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o make_v to_o yourselves_o friend_n of_o the_o mammon_n of_o unrighteousness_n that_o when_o you_o fail_v they_o may_v receive_v you_o into_o everlasting_a habitation_n he_o that_o be_v faithful_a in_o that_o which_o be_v least_o be_v faithful_a also_o in_o much_o and_o he_o that_o be_v unjust_a in_o the_o least_o be_v unjust_a also_o in_o much_o if_o therefore_o you_o have_v not_o be_v faithful_a in_o the_o unrighteous_a mammon_n who_o will_v commit_v to_o your_o trust_n the_o true_a riches_n and_o if_o you_o have_v not_o be_v faithful_a in_o that_o which_o be_v anothert_n man_n who_o shall_v give_v you_o that_o which_o be_v your_o own_o no_o servant_n can_v serve_v two_o master_n for_o either_o he_o will_v hate_v the_o one_o and_o love_v the_o other_o or_o else_o he_o will_v hold_v to_o the_o one_o and_o despise_v the_o other_o you_o can_v serve_v god_n and_o mammon_n four_o labour_v continual_o for_o the_o mortification_n of_o your_o affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n they_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n set_v and_o fix_v on_o they_o nor_o will_v any_o reason_n or_o consideration_n effectual_o divert_v they_o or_o take_v they_o off_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n unless_o they_o be_v mortify_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o cross_n of_o christ._n whatever_o change_v be_v otherwise_o wrought_v in_o they_o it_o will_v be_v of_o no_o advantage_n unto_o we_o it_o be_v mortification_n alone_o that_o will_v take_v they_o off_o from_o earthly_a thing_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n hence_o the_o apostle_n have_v give_v we_o that_o charge_n set_v your_o affection_n on_o thing_n above_o and_o not_o on_o thing_n below_o on_o the_o earth_n col._n 3.2_o add_v this_o as_o the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v do_v so_o mortify_v therefore_o your_o member_n that_o be_v on_o the_o earth_n v_o 5._o let_v no_o man_n think_v that_o his_o
be_v two_o other_o head_n of_o thing_n that_o offer_v themselves_o unto_o our_o consideration_n first_o the_o way_n mean_n arguing_n and_o enticement_n which_o the_o world_n make_v use_v of_o to_o draw_v keep_v and_o secure_v the_o affection_n of_o man_n unto_o itself_o second_o the_o secret_a powerful_a efficacy_n of_o grace_n in_o take_v off_o the_o heart_n from_o these_o thing_n turn_v and_o draw_v it_o unto_o god_n with_o the_o argument_n and_o motive_n that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n make_v use_v of_o in_o and_o by_o the_o word_n unto_o this_o end_n and_o wherein_o we_o must_v show_v what_o be_v the_o act_n of_o conquer_a grace_n wherein_o the_o heart_n be_v final_o prevail_v on_o to_o choose_v and_o adhere_v unto_o god_n in_o love_n immutable_a but_o these_o thing_n can_v be_v handle_v in_o any_o measure_n according_a to_o their_o nature_n and_o importance_n without_o such_o length_n of_o discourse_n as_o i_o can_v not_o here_o divert_v unto_o i_o shall_v therefore_o proceed_v unto_o that_o which_o be_v the_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a subject_n before_o we_o chap._n xii_o what_o be_v require_v in_o and_o unto_o our_o affection_n that_o they_o may_v be_v spiritual_a a_o threefold_a work_n on_o the_o affection_n describe_v to_o declare_v the_o interest_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o this_o frame_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n and_o what_o they_o contribute_v thereunto_o i_o shall_v do_v these_o three_o thing_n first_o declare_v what_o be_v require_v hereunto_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v be_v spiritual_a wherein_o lie_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o whole_a duty_n second_o what_o be_v their_o act_n when_o they_o be_v so_o spiritual_a three_o what_o be_v the_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v keep_v and_o preserve_v in_o that_o frame_n with_o sundry_a other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n how_o our_o affection_n be_v concern_v in_o or_o do_v belong_v unto_o the_o frame_n of_o mind_n inquire_v after_o have_v be_v before_o declare_v without_o spiritual_a affection_n we_o can_v be_v spiritually-minded_n and_o that_o they_o may_v be_v of_o this_o use_n three_o thing_n be_v require_v first_o their_o principle_n second_o their_o object_n three_o the_o way_n and_o manner_n of_o their_o application_n unto_o their_o proper_a object_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o principle_n first_o as_o unto_o the_o principle_n act_v in_o they_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v be_v spiritual_a and_o the_o spring_n of_o our_o be_v spiritually-minded_n it_o be_v require_v that_o they_o be_v change_v renew_v and_o in-laid_a with_o grace_n spiritual_n and_o supernatural_a to_o clear_v the_o sense_n hereof_o we_o must_v a_o little_a consider_v what_o be_v their_o state_n by_o nature_n and_o then_o by_o what_o mean_v they_o may_v be_v wrought_v upon_o as_o unto_o a_o change_n or_o a_o renovation_n for_o they_o be_v like_a unto_o some_o thing_n which_o in_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o nature_n be_v poisonous_a but_o be_v correct_v and_o receive_v a_o due_a temperament_n from_o a_o mixture_n of_o other_o ingredient_n become_v medicinal_a and_o of_o excellent_a use._n first_o by_o nature_n our_o affection_n all_o of_o they_o be_v deprave_v and_o corrupt_v nothing_o in_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o man_n no_o power_n or_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v fall_v under_o great_a disorder_n and_o depravation_n by_o the_o entrance_n of_o sin_n than_o our_o affection_n be_v in_o and_o by_o they_o be_v the_o heart_n whole_o go_v and_o turn_v off_o from_o god_n tit._n 3.3_o it_o be_v a_o long_a work_n to_o set_v forth_o this_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n nor_o do_v it_o belong_v unto_o our_o present_a design_n some_o few_o thing_n i_o shall_v brief_o observe_v concern_v it_o to_o make_v way_n unto_o what_o be_v propose_v concern_v their_o change_n first_o this_o be_v the_o only_a corruption_n and_o depravation_n of_o our_o nature_n by_o the_o fall_v evident_a in_o and_o unto_o reason_n or_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n itself_o those_o who_o be_v wise_a among_o the_o heathen_a both_o see_v it_o and_o complain_v of_o it_o they_o find_v a_o weakness_n in_o the_o mind_n but_o see_v nothing_o of_o its_o darkness_n and_o depravation_n as_o unto_o thing_n spiritual_a but_o they_o be_v sensible_a enough_o of_o this_o disorder_n and_o tumult_n of_o the_o affection_n in_o thing_n moral_a which_o render_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n like_o a_o trouble_a sea_n who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt._n this_o great_o aggravate_v the_o neglect_n of_o they_o who_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o it_o in_o themselves_o see_v it_o be_v discernible_a in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n second_o they_o be_v as_o deprave_v the_o seat_n and_o subject_n of_o all_o lust_n both_o of_o the_o flesh_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n yea_o lust_n or_o evil_a concupiscence_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o irregular_a motion_n and_o act_v of_o our_o affection_n as_o deprave_a defile_v corrupt_a rom._n 7.9_o hence_o no_o one_o sin_n can_v be_v mortify_v without_o a_o change_n wrought_v in_o the_o affection_n three_o they_o be_v the_o spring_n root_n and_o cause_n of_o all_o actual_a sin_n in_o the_o world_n mat._n 15.9_o the_o evil_a heart_n in_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o corrupt_a affection_n of_o it_o with_o the_o imagination_n of_o the_o mind_n whereby_o they_o be_v excite_v and_o act_v gen._n 6.5_o these_o be_v they_o which_o at_o this_o time_n fill_v the_o whole_a world_n with_o wickedness_n darkness_n confusion_n and_o terror_n and_o we_o may_v learn_v what_o be_v their_o force_n and_o efficacy_n from_o these_o effect_n so_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o plague_n be_v most_o evident_a when_o we_o see_v thousand_o die_v of_o it_o every_o week_n four_o they_o be_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o soul_n apply_v itself_o unto_o all_o sinful_a object_n and_o act_n hence_o be_v they_o call_v our_o member_n our_o earthly_a member_n because_o as_o the_o body_n apply_v itself_o unto_o its_o operation_n by_o its_o member_n so_o do_v the_o soul_n apply_v itself_o unto_o what_o belong_v unto_o it_o by_o its_o affection_n rom._n 6.13_o col._n 3.5_o five_o they_o will_v not_o be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o mind_n its_o light_n or_o conviction_n rebellion_n against_o the_o light_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v the_o very_a form_n whereby_o their_o corruption_n act_v itself_o job_n 24.13_o let_v the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o its_o notion_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n be_v what_o they_o will_v they_o reject_v they_o and_o lead_v the_o soul_n in_o pursuit_n of_o their_o inclination_n hence_o no_o natural_a man_n whatsoever_o do_v in_o any_o measure_n answer_v the_o light_n of_o his_o mind_n or_o the_o conviction_n of_o his_o understanding_n but_o he_o see_v and_o approve_v of_o better_a thing_n follow_v those_o that_o be_v worse_o and_o there_o be_v no_o great_a spiritual_a judgement_n than_o for_o man_n to_o be_v give_v up_o unto_o themselves_z and_o their_o own_o evil_a affection_n rom._n 1.26_o many_o other_o instance_n may_v be_v give_v of_o the_o greatness_n of_o that_o depravation_n which_o our_o affection_n be_v fall_v under_o by_o sin_n these_o may_v suffice_v as_o unto_o our_o present_a purpose_n in_o general_n this_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n by_o nature_n may_v be_v reduce_v unto_o two_o head_n first_o a_o utter_a aversation_n from_o god_n and_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o this_o lie_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o that_o dislike_n of_o god_n and_o his_o way_n that_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n be_v fill_v withal_o yea_o they_o do_v not_o only_o produce_v a_o aversation_n from_o they_o and_o dislike_n of_o they_o but_o they_o fill_v the_o mind_n with_o a_o enmity_n against_o they_o therefore_o man_n say_v in_o their_o heart_n unto_o god_n depart_v from_o we_o for_o we_o desire_v not_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thy_o way_n what_o be_v the_o almighty_a that_o we_o shall_v serve_v he_o or_o what_o profit_n shall_v we_o have_v if_o we_o pray_v unto_o he_o job_n 21.14_o 15._o see_v rom._n 1.28_o chap._n 8._o 7_o 8._o second_o a_o inordinate_a cleave_v unto_o thing_n vain_a earthly_a and_o sensual_a cause_v the_o soul_n to_o engage_v into_o the_o pursuit_n of_o they_o as_o the_o horse_n rush_n into_o the_o battle_n while_o our_o affection_n be_v in_o this_o state_n and_o condition_n we_o be_v far_o enough_o from_o be_v spiritually-minded_n nor_o be_v it_o possible_a to_o engage_v they_o into_o a_o adherence_n unto_o or_o delight_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o this_o state_n they_o may_v be_v two_o way_n wrought_v upon_o and_o yet_o not_o so_o renew_v as_o to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o this_o end_n first_o there_o may_v be_v various_a temporary_a impression_n make_v on_o they_o sometime_o there_o be_v so_o by_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o word_n hereon_o man_n may_v hear_v it_o with_o joy_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n glad_o sometime_o it_o be_v so_o by_o
mistake_n to_o suppose_v that_o any_o external_a duty_n of_o worship_n as_o hear_v the_o word_n prayer_n or_o the_o sacrament_n be_v appoint_v for_o themselves_o or_o accept_v for_o themselves_o such_o thought_n the_o jew_n of_o old_a have_v concern_v their_o sacrifice_n namely_o that_o they_o be_v appoint_v for_o their_o own_o sake_n and_o be_v acceptable_a service_n unto_o god_n mere_o on_o their_o own_o account_n wherefore_o god_n to_o deliver_v they_o from_o this_o pernicious_a mistake_n affirm_v ofttimes_o that_o he_o never_o appoint_v they_o at_o all_o that_o be_v for_o any_o such_o end_n jer._n 7.22_o 23._o isa._n 1.12_o 13_o 14_o etc._n etc._n and_o now_o under_o the_o gospel_n sundry_a thing_n destructive_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n have_v proceed_v from_o such_o a_o supposition_n some_o hereon_o have_v always_o satisfy_v and_o content_v themselves_o with_o the_o external_a observance_n of_o they_o without_o desire_v or_o endeavour_v any_o holy_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o they_o or_o by_o they_o this_o constitute_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n mention_v rev._n 3.1_o and_o by_o follow_v this_o tract_n the_o generality_n of_o christian_n do_v wander_v out_o of_o the_o way_n they_o can_v leave_v they_o nor_o do_v know_v how_o to_o use_v they_o unto_o their_o advantage_n until_o they_o come_v whole_o unto_o that_o woeful_a state_n isai._n 29.13_o and_o some_o to_o establish_v this_o deceit_n have_v teach_v that_o there_o be_v much_o more_o in_o the_o outward_a work_n of_o these_o duty_n than_o ever_o god_n put_v into_o they_o and_o that_o they_o be_v sanctify_v mere_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o work_v wrought_v but_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o second_o commandment_n as_o be_v all_o institute_v ordinance_n of_o worship_n be_v but_o mean_v to_o express_v and_o exercise_v those_o of_o the_o first_o as_o faith_n love_n fear_v trust_v and_o delight_n in_o god_n the_o end_n of_o they_o all_o be_v that_o through_o they_o and_o by_o they_o we_o may_v act_v those_o grace_n on_o god_n in_o christ_n where_o this_o be_v not_o attend_v unto_o when_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n do_v not_o apply_v themselves_o unto_o this_o exercise_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o let_v they_o be_v never_o so_o solemn_a as_o to_o their_o outward_a performance_n be_v attend_v unto_o with_o diligence_n be_v perform_v with_o earnestness_n and_o delight_n they_o be_v neither_o acceptable_a unto_o god_n nor_o beneficial_a unto_o themselves_o isai._n 1.11_o this_o therefore_o be_v the_o first_o general_a spring_n of_o the_o love_n of_o believer_n of_o they_o who_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v unto_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o their_o delight_n in_o they_o they_o have_v experience_n that_o in_o and_o by_o they_o their_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v excite_v unto_o a_o gracious_a exercise_n of_o themselves_o on_o god_n in_o christ._n and_o when_o they_o find_v it_o otherwise_o with_o they_o they_o can_v have_v no_o rest_n in_o their_o soul_n for_o this_o end_n be_v they_o ordain_v sanctify_v and_o bless_v of_o god_n and_o therefore_o be_v effectual_a mean_n of_o it_o when_o their_o efficacy_n be_v not_o defeat_v by_o unbelief_n and_o those_o who_o have_v no_o experience_n hereof_o in_o their_o attendance_n unto_o they_o do_v as_o have_v be_v say_v fall_v into_o pernicious_a extreme_n some_o continue_v their_o observance_n with_o little_a regard_n unto_o god_n in_o curse_a formality_n so_o they_o make_v they_o a_o mean_n of_o their_o ruin_n by_o countenance_v of_o they_o in_o their_o security_n other_o utter_o reject_v they_o at_o least_o the_o most_o solemn_a of_o they_o and_o therein_o both_o the_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n and_o authority_n of_o god_n by_o who_o they_o be_v appoint_v because_o through_o the_o power_n of_o their_o own_o unbelief_n they_o find_v nothing_o in_o they_o this_o be_v the_o immediate_a end_n of_o all_o divine_a institution_n this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v give_v glory_n unto_o god_n in_o their_o observance_n which_o be_v their_o ultimate_a end_n in_o this_o world_n &_o this_o be_v the_o design_n in_o general_n of_o believer_n in_o that_o obedience_n they_o yield_v unto_o the_o lord_n christ_n in_o their_o diligent_a observation_n of_o they_o we_o may_v consider_v how_o in_o what_o way_n and_o by_o what_o mean_v those_o who_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v do_v and_o aught_o to_o apply_v their_o mind_n and_o soul_n unto_o their_o observance_n and_o we_o may_v consider_v herein_o first_o what_o they_o do_v design_n and_o than_o what_o they_o endeavour_v to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o exercise_n and_o practice_n of_o in_o their_o use_n and_o enjoyment_n first_o they_o come_v unto_o they_o with_o this_o desire_n design_n and_o expectation_n namely_o to_o be_v enable_v direct_v and_o excite_v by_o they_o unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a faith_n and_o love_n when_o it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o any_o where_o there_o be_v not_o this_o design_n they_o do_v in_o various_a degree_n take_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o vain_a in_o their_o observance_n these_o be_v approximationes_n dei_fw-la the_o way_n of_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o god_n as_o they_o be_v every_o where_o call_v in_o scripture_n to_o suppose_v that_o a_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o god_n may_v consist_v mere_o in_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o duty_n whatever_n be_v its_o solemnity_n be_v to_o reject_v all_o due_a reverence_n of_o he_o forasmuch_o say_v the_o lord_n as_o this_o people_n draw_v near_o i_o with_o their_o mouth_n and_o with_o their_o lip_n do_v honour_n i_o but_o have_v remove_v their_o heart_n far_o from_o i_o therefore_o i_o will_v proceed_v against_o they_o isaiah_n 29.13_o the_o mouth_n and_o lip_n be_v put_v by_o a_o synecdoche_n for_o all_o the_o mean_n of_o outward_a worship_n and_o honour_n these_o man_n may_v use_v diligent_o attend_v unto_o while_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o god_n that_o be_v when_o they_o do_v not_o draw_v nigh_o to_o he_o by_o faith_n and_o love_n but_o all_o this_o worship_n be_v reject_v of_o god_n with_o the_o high_a token_n of_o his_o displeasure_n and_o indignation_n against_o it_o first_o our_o soul_n then_o have_v no_o way_n of_o approach_n unto_o god_n in_o duty_n of_o worship_n but_o by_o faith_n no_o way_n of_o adherance_n or_o cleave_v unto_o he_o but_o by_o love_n no_o way_n of_o abide_v in_o he_o but_o by_o fear_n reverence_n and_o delight_n when_o ever_o these_o be_v not_o in_o excercise_n outward_a duty_n of_o worship_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v a_o mean_n of_o such_o a_o approach_n unto_o he_o as_o that_o they_o set_v we_o at_o a_o great_a distance_n from_o he_o than_o we_o be_v before_o at_o least_o be_v utter_o useless_a and_o fruitless_a unto_o we_o so_o indeed_o they_o be_v unto_o the_o most_o who_o come_v unto_o they_o they_o know_v not_o why_o and_o behave_v themselves_o under_o they_o they_o care_v not_o how_o nor_o be_v there_o any_o evil_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o way_n of_o man_n whereof_o god_n complain_v more_o in_o his_o word_n as_o that_o which_o be_v accompany_v with_o the_o high_a contempt_n of_o he_o and_o because_o these_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n be_v mean_n which_o the_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n have_v appoint_v unto_o this_o end_n namely_o the_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o divine_a faith_n and_o love_n and_o therefore_o do_v sanctify_v and_o bless_v they_o thereunto_o i_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o they_o have_v any_o delight_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o these_o grace_n nor_o do_v design_n growth_n in_o they_o by_o who_o these_o great_a mean_n of_o they_o be_v despise_v or_o neglect_v and_o although_o i_o have_v see_v those_o valley_n of_o public_a worship_n forsake_v either_o on_o pretence_n of_o high_a attainment_n in_o faith_n light_n and_o love_n than_o to_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o they_o any_o more_o or_o on_o a_o foolish_a opinion_n that_o they_o cease_v upon_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o to_o make_v they_o useful_a and_o effectual_a or_o on_o some_o provocation_n that_o have_v be_v give_v unto_o some_o man_n or_o which_o they_o have_v take_v unto_o themselves_o which_o they_o have_v think_v they_o can_v revenge_v by_o a_o neglect_n of_o public_a administration_n or_o through_o slavish_a peace_n and_o negligence_n in_o time_n of_o difficulty_n as_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o some_o who_o forsake_v the_o assembly_n of_o the_o saint_n heb._n 16.25_o yet_o i_o never_o see_v but_o it_o issue_v in_o a_o great_a decay_n if_o not_o in_o a_o utter_a loss_n of_o all_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o sometime_o in_o open_a profaneness_n for_o such_o person_n contemn_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n which_o god_n in_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n have_v appoint_v for_o their_o exercise_n and_o increase_n and_o this_o shall_v
wilderness_n where_o no_o refreshment_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v to_o make_v a_o pretence_n of_o come_v unto_o god_n and_o not_o with_o expectation_n of_o receive_v good_a and_o great_a thing_n from_o he_o be_v to_o despise_v god_n himself_o to_o overthrow_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n and_o deprive_v our_o own_o soul_n of_o all_o benefit_n thereby_o and_o want_v hereof_o be_v that_o which_o render_v the_o worship_n of_o the_o most_o useless_a and_o fruitless_a unto_o themselves_o we_o be_v always_o to_o come_v unto_o god_n as_o unto_o a_o eternal_a spring_n of_o goodness_n grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o all_o that_o our_o soul_n do_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o of_o all_o we_o can_v desire_v in_o order_n unto_o our_o everlasting_a blessedness_n and_o all_o these_o thing_n as_o unto_o believer_n may_v be_v reduce_v unto_o the_o two_o head_n before_o mention_v first_o they_o come_v for_o a_o communication_n of_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o love_n in_o jesus_n christ._n hence_o do_v all_o our_o peace_n consolation_n and_o joy_n all_o our_o encouragement_n to_o do_v and_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n all_o our_o supportment_n under_o our_o suffering_n sole_o depend_v in_o these_o thing_n do_v our_o soul_n live_v and_o without_o they_o we_o be_v of_o all_o man_n the_o most_o miserable_a it_o be_v the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o be_v the_o immediate_a efficient_a cause_n of_o all_o these_o thing_n in_o we_o he_o shed_v abroad_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o our_o heart_n rom._n 5.5_o he_o witness_v our_o adoption_n unto_o we_o chap._n 8.15_o 16._o and_o thereby_o a_o interest_n in_o the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n in_o god_n as_o he_o be_v love_n but_o the_o outward_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o he_o communicate_v these_o thing_n unto_o we_o and_o effect_n they_o in_o we_o be_v by_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o the_o preach_a of_o it_o ordinary_o he_o do_v the_o same_o work_n also_o in_o prayer_n ofttimes_o in_o other_o holy_a administration_n for_o this_o end_n for_o a_o participation_n of_o this_o grace_n of_o these_o mercy_n do_v believer_n come_v unto_o god_n by_o they_o they_o use_v they_o as_o mean_n to_o draw_v water_n from_o the_o well_n of_o salvation_n and_o to_o receive_v in_o that_o spiritual_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n which_o god_n by_o they_o will_v communicate_v so_o christ_n by_o his_o word_n knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o heart_n if_o it_o be_v open_v by_o faith_n he_o come_v in_o and_o sup_v with_o man_n give_v they_o a_o gracious_a refreshment_n by_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o own_o love_n and_o the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n rev._n 3.20_o joh._n 14.23_o this_o believer_n look_v for_o in_o and_o this_o they_o do_v in_o various_a measure_n receive_v by_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o although_o some_o through_o their_o fear_n and_o temptation_n be_v not_o sensible_a hereof_o yet_o do_v they_o secret_o receive_v these_o bless_a gracious_a supply_n whereby_o their_o soul_n be_v hold_v in_o life_n without_o which_o they_o will_v pine_v away_o and_o perish_v so_o he_o deal_v with_o they_o cant._n 4.5_o 6._o these_o be_v the_o garden_n and_o gallery_n of_o christ_n wherein_o he_o give_v we_o of_o his_o love_n cant._n 7.12_o those_o who_o be_v humble_a and_o sincere_a know_v how_o often_o their_o soul_n have_v be_v refresh_v in_o they_o and_o how_o long_o sometime_o the_o impression_n they_o have_v receive_v of_o divine_a grace_n and_o love_n have_v continue_v with_o they_o unto_o their_o unspeakable_a consolation_n they_o remember_v what_o they_o have_v receive_v in_o the_o open_v and_o application_n of_o the_o exceed_a great_a and_o precious_a promise_n that_o be_v give_v unto_o they_o whereby_o they_o be_v gradual_o more_o and_o more_o make_v partaker_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n how_o many_o a_o time_n they_o have_v receive_v light_n in_o darkness_n refreshment_n under_o despondency_n relief_n in_o their_o conflict_n with_o danger_n and_o temptation_n in_o and_o by_o they_o for_o this_o cause_n do_v affection_n that_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v cleave_v unto_o they_o who_o can_v but_o love_v and_o delight_n in_o that_o which_o he_o have_v find_v by_o experience_n to_o be_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o communicate_v unto_o he_o the_o most_o invaluable_a mercy_n the_o most_o inestimable_a benefit_n whereof_o in_o this_o life_n he_o can_v be_v make_v partaker_n he_o who_o have_v find_v a_o hide_a treasure_n although_o he_o shall_v at_o once_o take_v away_o the_o whole_a of_o it_o yet_o will_v esteem_v the_o place_n where_o he_o find_v it_o but_o if_o it_o be_v of_o that_o nature_n that_o no_o more_o can_v be_v find_v or_o take_v of_o it_o at_o once_o but_o what_o be_v sufficient_a for_o the_o present_a occasion_n yet_o be_v so_o full_a and_o boundless_a as_o that_o whenever_o he_o come_v again_o to_o seek_v for_o it_o he_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o obtain_v present_a supply_n he_o will_v always_o value_v it_o and_o constant_o apply_v himself_o unto_o it_o and_o such_o be_v the_o treasure_n of_o grace_n and_o divine_a love_n that_o be_v in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n if_o we_o be_v stranger_n unto_o these_o thing_n if_o we_o have_v never_o receive_v efficatious_a intimation_n of_o divine_a love_n unto_o our_o soul_n in_o and_o by_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n we_o can_v love_v they_o and_o delight_v in_o they_o as_o we_o ought_v what_o do_v man_n come_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o what_o do_v they_o pray_v for_o what_o do_v they_o expect_v to_o receive_v from_o he_o do_v they_o come_v unto_o god_n as_o the_o eternal_a fountain_n of_o live_v water_n as_o the_o god_n of_o all_o grace_n peace_n and_o consolation_n or_o do_v they_o come_v unto_o his_o worship_n without_o any_o design_n as_o unto_o a_o dry_a and_o empty_a show_n do_v they_o fight_v uncertain_o with_o these_o thing_n as_o man_n beat_v the_o air_n or_o do_v they_o think_v they_o bring_v something_o unto_o god_n but_o receive_v nothing_o from_o he_o that_o the_o best_a of_o their_o business_n be_v to_o please_v he_o in_o do_v what_o he_o command_v but_o to_o receive_v any_o thing_n from_o he_o they_o expect_v not_o nor_o do_v ever_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o they_o have_v do_v so_o or_o no_o it_o be_v not_o for_o person_n who_o walk_v in_o such_o way_n ever_o to_o attain_v a_o due_a delight_n in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n believer_n have_v other_o design_n herein_o and_o among_o the_o rest_n this_o in_o the_o first_o place_n that_o they_o may_v be_v a_o fresh_a make_v partaker_n of_o refresh_a comfort_a pledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o thereby_o of_o their_o adoption_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o acceptance_n of_o their_o person_n according_a as_o they_o meet_v with_o these_o thing_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o holy_a worship_n public_a or_o private_a so_o will_v they_o love_v value_n and_o adhere_v unto_o they_o some_o man_n be_v full_a of_o other_o thought_n and_o affection_n so_o as_o that_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o their_o principal_a design_n or_o desire_n or_o be_v content_v with_o that_o measure_n of_o they_o which_o they_o suppose_v themselves_o to_o have_v attain_v or_o at_o least_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o the_o need_n they_o stand_v in_o to_o have_v fresh_a communication_n of_o they_o make_v unto_o their_o soul_n suppose_v that_o they_o can_v do_v well_o enough_o without_o a_o renew_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n every_o day_n some_o be_v so_o ignorant_a of_o what_o they_o ought_v to_o design_n to_o look_v after_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o gospel_n worship_n as_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a they_o shall_v have_v any_o real_a design_n in_o they_o many_o of_o the_o better_a sort_n of_o professor_n be_v too_o negligent_a in_o this_o matter_n they_o do_v not_o long_a and_o pant_v in_o the_o inward_a man_n after_o renew_a pledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n they_o do_v not_o consider_v how_o much_o need_n they_o have_v of_o they_o that_o they_o may_v be_v encourage_v and_o strengthen_v unto_o all_o other_o duty_n of_o obedience_n they_o do_v not_o prepare_v their_o mind_n for_o their_o reception_n of_o they_o nor_o come_v with_o expectation_n of_o their_o communication_n unto_o they_o they_o do_v not_o right_o fix_v their_o faith_n on_o this_o truth_n namely_o that_o these_o holy_a administration_n and_o duty_n be_v appoint_v of_o god_n in_o the_o first_o place_n as_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o convey_v his_o love_n and_o a_o sense_n of_o it_o unto_o our_o soul_n from_o hence_o spring_v all_o that_o lukewarmness_n coldness_n and_o indifferency_n in_o and_o unto_o the_o duty_n of_o holy_a worship_n that_o be_v grow_v among_o we_o for_o if_o man_n have_v lose_v the_o principal_a design_n of_o faith_n
in_o they_o and_o disesteem_n the_o chief_a benefit_n which_o be_v to_o be_v obtain_v by_o they_o whence_o shall_v zeal_n for_o they_o delight_n in_o they_o or_o diligence_n in_o attendance_n unto_o they_o arise_v let_v not_o any_o please_v themselves_o under_o the_o power_n of_o such_o decay_n they_o be_v indication_n of_o their_o inward_a frame_n and_o those_o infallible_a such_o person_n will_v grow_v cold_a careless_a and_o negligent_a as_o unto_o the_o duty_n of_o public_a worship_n they_o will_v put_v themselves_o neither_o to_o charge_v nor_o trouble_v about_o they_o every_o occasion_n of_o life_n divert_v they_o and_o find_v ready_a entertainment_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o when_o they_o do_v attend_v upon_o they_o it_o be_v with_o great_a indifferency_n and_o unconcernedness_n yet_o will_v they_o have_v it_o think_v that_o all_o be_v still_o well_o within_o as_o ever_o it_o be_v they_o have_v as_o good_a a_o respect_n unto_o religion_n as_o any_o but_o these_o thing_n open_o discover_v a_o ulcerous_a disease_n in_o the_o very_a soul_n of_o man_n as_o evident_o as_o if_o it_o be_v write_v on_o their_o forehead_n what_o ever_o they_o pretend_v unto_o the_o contrary_a they_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o woeful_a decay_n from_o all_o due_a regard_n unto_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a thing_n and_o i_o will_v avoid_v the_o society_n of_o such_o person_n as_o those_o who_o carry_v a_o infectious_a disease_n about_o they_o unless_o it_o be_v to_o help_v on_o their_o cure_n but_o herein_o it_o be_v that_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v do_v manifest_v themselves_o when_o we_o do_v delight_n in_o and_o value_v the_o duty_n of_o god_n worship_n because_o we_o find_v by_o experience_n that_o they_o be_v and_o have_v be_v unto_o we_o mean_n of_o communicate_v a_o sense_n and_o renew_v pledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o all_o the_o benefit_n and_o privilege_n which_o depend_v thereon_o then_o be_v our_o affection_n renew_v in_o and_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n second_o they_o come_v for_o supply_n of_o internal_a sanctify_a strengthen_v grace_n this_o be_v the_o second_o great_a design_n of_o believer_n in_o their_o approach_n unto_o god_n in_o his_o worship_n the_o want_n hereof_o as_o unto_o measure_n and_o degree_n they_o find_v in_o themselves_o and_o be_v sensible_a of_o it_o yea_o therein_o lie_v the_o great_a burden_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o world_n all_o that_o we_o do_v in_o the_o life_n of_o god_n may_v be_v refer_v unto_o two_o head_n first_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o duty_n of_o obedience_n and_o second_o the_o conflict_n with_o and_o conquest_n over_o temptation_n about_o these_o thing_n be_v we_o continual_o exercise_v hence_o the_o great_a thing_n which_o we_o desire_v labour_n for_o and_o pant_v after_o be_v spiritual_a strength_n and_o ability_n for_o the_o discharge_v of_o ourselves_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n with_o respect_n unto_o these_o thing_n this_o be_v that_o which_o every_o true_a believer_n groan_v after_o in_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o which_o he_o prefer_v infinite_o above_o all_o earthly_a thing_n so_o he_o may_v have_v grace_n sufficient_a in_o any_o competent_a measure_n for_o these_o end_n let_v what_o will_v befall_v he_o he_o desire_v no_o more_o in_o this_o world_n god_n in_o christ_n be_v the_o only_a fountain_n of_o all_o this_o grace_n there_o be_v not_o one_o drachm_n of_o it_o to_o be_v obtain_v but_o from_o he_o alone_o and_o as_o he_o do_v communicate_v it_o unto_o we_o of_o his_o own_o sovereign_a goodness_n and_o pleasure_n so_o the_o ordinary_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o he_o will_v do_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n isaiah_n 40.28_o 29_o 30_o 31._o have_v thou_o not_o know_v have_v thou_o not_o hear_v that_o the_o everlasting_a god_n the_o lord_n the_o creator_n of_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n faint_v not_o neither_o be_v weary_a there_o be_v no_o search_v of_o his_o understanding_n he_o give_v power_n to_o the_o faint_a and_o to_o they_o that_o have_v no_o may_v he_o increase_v strength_n even_o the_o youth_n shall_v faint_v and_o be_v weary_a and_o the_o young_a man_n shall_v utter_o fail_v but_o they_o that_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n shall_v renew_v their_o strength_n they_o shall_v mount_v up_o with_o wing_n as_o eagle_n they_o shall_v run_v and_o not_o be_v weary_a they_o shall_v walk_v and_o not_o faint_a all_o grace_n and_o spiritual_a strength_n be_v original_o seat_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n v_o 28._o but_o what_o relief_n can_v that_o afford_v unto_o we_o who_o be_v weak_a feeble_a faint_a he_o will_v act_v suitable_o unto_o his_o nature_n in_o the_o communication_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o power_n v_o 29._o but_o how_o shall_v we_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o this_o grace_n in_o these_o opperation_n wait_v on_o he_o in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o his_o worship_n v_o 31._o the_o word_n as_o preach_v be_v the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o god_n administer_v growth_n and_o strength_n unto_o they_o joh._n 17.17_o 1_o pet._n 2.23_o desire_v say_v he_o the_o sincere_a milk_n of_o the_o word_n that_o you_o may_v grow_v thereby_o but_o what_o encouragement_n have_v we_o thereunto_o if_o so_o be_v say_v he_o you_o have_v taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a if_o in_o and_o by_o the_o dispensation_n of_o this_o word_n you_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o the_o grace_n the_o goodness_n the_o kindness_n of_o god_n unto_o your_o soul_n you_o can_v but_o desire_v it_o and_o delight_n in_o it_o and_o otherwise_o you_o will_v not_o do_v so_o when_o man_n have_v fate_n some_o good_a while_n under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o other_o ordinance_n without_o taste_v in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a they_o will_v grow_v weary_a of_o it_o and_o they_o wherefore_o prayer_n be_v the_o way_n of_o his_o appointment_n for_o the_o application_n of_o our_o soul_n unto_o he_o to_o obtain_v a_o participation_n of_o all_o needful_a grace_n which_o therefore_o he_o have_v propose_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o promise_v of_o the_o covenant_n that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o to_o ask_v and_o how_o to_o plead_v for_o it_o in_o the_o sacrament_n the_o same_o promise_n be_v seal_v unto_o we_o and_o the_o grace_n represent_v in_o they_o effectual_o exhibit_v meditation_n confirm_v our_o soul_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n about_o it_o and_o be_v the_o especial_a open_v of_o the_o heart_n unto_o the_o reception_n of_o it_o by_o these_o mean_n i_o say_v do_v god_n communicate_v all_o supply_n of_o renew_v strengthen_v and_o sanctify_a grace_n unto_o we_o that_o we_o may_v live_v unto_o he_o in_o all_o holy_a obedience_n and_o be_v able_a to_o get_v the_o victory_n over_o our_o temptation_n under_o this_o apprehension_n do_v believer_n approach_v unto_o god_n in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o his_o worship_n they_o come_v unto_o they_o as_o the_o mean_n of_o god_n communication_n unto_o their_o soul_n hence_o they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n so_o far_o as_o their_o affection_n be_v renew_v so_o the_o spouse_n testify_v of_o herself_o i_o sit_v down_o under_o his_o shadow_n with_o great_a delight_n cant_n 2.3_o in_o these_o ordinance_n be_v the_o protect_a refresh_a presence_n of_o christ._n this_o she_o rest_v in_o with_o great_a delight_n as_o they_o come_v unto_o they_o with_o these_o design_n and_o expectation_n so_o they_o have_v experience_n of_o the_o spiritual_a benefit_n and_o advantage_n which_o they_o receive_v by_o they_o which_o more_o and_o more_o engage_v they_o unto_o they_o in_o their_o affection_n and_o delight_n all_o these_o thing_n those_o who_o have_v a_o change_v wrought_v in_o their_o affection_n but_o not_o a_o spiritual_a renovation_n be_v stranger_n unto_o they_o neither_o have_v the_o design_n before_o mention_v in_o come_v to_o they_o nor_o the_o experience_n of_o this_o efficacy_n now_o propose_v in_o their_o attendance_n on_o they_o but_o these_o benefit_n be_v great_a as_o for_o instance_n when_o man_n find_v the_o worth_n and_o effect_n of_o the_o word_n preach_v on_o their_o soul_n in_o its_o enlighten_v refresh_a strengthen_v transform_a power_n when_o they_o find_v their_o heart_n warm_v their_o grace_n excite_v and_o strengthen_v the_o love_n of_o god_n improve_v their_o disponding_n spirit_n under_o trial_n and_o temptation_n relieve_v their_o whole_a soul_n gradual_o more_o and_o more_o conform_v unto_o christ_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o by_o it_o extricate_v out_o of_o snare_n doubt_n fear_n temptation_n and_o bring_v unto_o satisfaction_n and_o rest_n they_o can_v but_o delight_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o it_o and_o rejoice_v in_o it_o as_o the_o food_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o it_o be_v a_o great_a hindrance_n unto_o the_o increase_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o
of_o the_o divine_a nature_n our_o dependence_n on_o he_o and_o relation_n unto_o he_o and_o this_o be_v that_o which_o in_o the_o first_o place_n believer_n design_v in_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o the_o pattern_n set_v we_o by_o our_o bless_a saviour_n in_o the_o prayer_n he_o teach_v his_o disciple_n direct_v we_o thereunto_o all_o the_o first_o request_n of_o it_o concern_v immediate_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o advancement_n thereof_o for_o therein_o also_o all_o the_o blessedness_n and_o safety_n of_o the_o church_n be_v include_v those_o who_o fail_v in_o this_o design_n do_v err_v in_o all_o that_o they_o do_v they_o never_o tend_v unto_o the_o mark_n propose_v unto_o they_o but_o this_o be_v that_o which_o principal_o animate_v the_o soul_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o all_o their_o duty_n this_o their_o universal_a relation_n unto_o he_o and_o love_n in_o that_o relation_n make_v necessary_a wherefore_o that_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v direct_o and_o solemn_o ascribe_v and_o give_v glory_n unto_o god_n be_v precious_a and_o delightful_a unto_o they_o and_o such_o be_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n these_o be_v some_o of_o the_o thing_n wherein_o the_o respect_n of_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v unto_o ordinance_n and_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n do_v differ_v from_o the_o act_n of_o affection_n towards_o the_o same_o object_n which_o be_v not_o so_o santify_v and_o renew_v there_o be_v yet_o other_o thing_n accompany_v with_o the_o same_o evidence_n of_o the_o difference_n between_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v and_o those_o which_o have_v only_o a_o general_a change_n wrought_v in_o they_o by_o conviction_n and_o some_o outward_a occasion_n which_o must_v in_o one_o or_o two_o instance_n more_o be_v insist_v on_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o such_o case_n as_o derive_v from_o they_o for_o my_o design_n herein_o be_v not_o only_o to_o declare_v when_o our_o mind_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v but_o also_o what_o be_v the_o nature_n and_o operation_n of_o our_o affection_n whereby_o we_o be_v constitute_v and_o denominate_v spiritually-minded_n which_o be_v the_o subject_a of_o our_o whole_a enquiry_n herein_o than_o we_o shall_v proceed_v chap._n xvi_o assimulation_n unto_o thing_n heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a in_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v this_o assimulation_n the_o work_n of_o faith_n how_o and_o whereby_o reason_n of_o the_o want_n of_o growth_n in_o our_o spiritual_a affection_n as_o unto_o this_o assimulation_n when_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v in_o their_o exercise_n or_o fix_v of_o themselves_o on_o spiritual_a thing_n there_o be_v a_o assimulation_n wrought_v in_o they_o and_o in_o the_o whole_a soul_n unto_o those_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n by_o faith_n but_o when_o there_o be_v a_o change_n in_o they_o only_o from_o other_o cause_n and_o occasion_n and_o not_o from_o renew_v grace_n there_o be_v a_o assimulation_n effect_v of_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n unto_o themselves_o unto_o those_o affection_n by_o imagination_n this_o must_v somewhat_o at_o large_a be_v speak_v unto_o as_o that_o which_o give_v the_o most_o eminent_a distinction_n between_o the_o frame_v of_o mind_n who_o difference_n we_o inquire_v into_o and_o to_o that_o end_n we_o shall_v cast_v our_o consideration_n of_o it_o into_o the_o ensue_a observation_n first_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v be_v in_o all_o their_o act_n in_o their_o whole_a exercise_n under_o the_o guidance_n and_o conduct_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v faith_n which_o in_o its_o spiritual_a light_n have_v the_o lead_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o whole_a life_n of_o god_n we_o live_v here_o by_o faith_n as_o we_o shall_v do_v hereafter_o by_o light_n if_o our_o affection_n deviate_v or_o decline_v in_o the_o least_o from_o the_o guidance_n of_o the_o faith_n they_o degenerate_a from_o their_o spirituality_n and_o give_v up_o themselves_o unto_o the_o service_n of_o superstition_n next_o unto_o corrupt_a secular_a interest_n in_o the_o management_n of_o crafty_a selfish_a seducer_n this_o have_v be_v the_o great_a inlet_n of_o all_o superstition_n and_o false_a worship_n into_o the_o world_n blind_a affection_n grope_v in_o the_o dark_a after_o spiritual_a thing_n have_v not_o the_o save_v light_n of_o faith_n to_o conduct_v they_o have_v seduce_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n into_o all_o manner_n of_o superstition_n imagination_n and_o practice_n continue_v to_o do_v so_o at_o this_o day_n and_o wherever_o they_o will_v lead_v the_o way_n when_o faith_n go_v not_o before_o they_o to_o discover_v both_o way_n and_o end_n they_o that_o lead_v and_o the_o mind_n that_o be_v lead_v must_v fall_v into_o one_o snare_n and_o pit_n or_o another_o wherefore_o affection_n that_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v move_v not_o act_n not_o but_o as_o faith_n discover_v their_o object_n and_o direct_v they_o unto_o it_o it_o be_v faith_n that_o work_v by_o love_n we_o can_v love_v nothing_o sincere_o with_o divine_a love_n but_o what_o we_o believe_v save_o with_o divine_a faith_n let_v our_o affection_n unto_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v never_o so_o vehement_a if_o they_o spring_v not_o from_o faith_n if_o they_o be_v not_o guide_v by_o it_o they_o be_v neither_o accept_v with_o god_n nor_o will_v promote_v the_o interest_n of_o spirituality_n and_o holiness_n in_o our_o own_o soul_n heb._n 11.6_o mat._n 6.22_o 23._o and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n whence_o we_o oft_o time_n see_v great_a and_o plausible_a appearance_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n which_o yet_o endure_v only_o for_o a_o season_n they_o have_v be_v awaken_v excite_v act_v by_o one_o mean_n or_o another_o outward_a or_o inward_a but_o not_o have_v the_o light_n of_o faith_n to_o guide_v they_o unto_o their_o proper_a object_n they_o either_o wither_v and_o die_v as_o unto_o any_o appear_v of_o spiritual_a motion_n or_o else_o keep_v the_o mind_n toss_v up_o and_o down_o in_o perpetual_a disquietment_n without_o rest_n or_o peace_n the_o foolish_a man_n weary_v himself_o because_o he_o can_v find_v the_o way_n to_o the_o city_n so_o be_v it_o with_o they_o who_o on_o the_o account_n of_o their_o attendance_n unto_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n be_v call_v his_o disciple_n joh._n 6._o have_v preach_v unto_o they_o about_o the_o bread_n which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o give_v life_n unto_o they_o that_o feed_v they_o be_v great_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o cry_v out_o lord_n evermore_o give_v we_o of_o this_o bread_n v_o 34._o but_o when_o he_o proceed_v to_o declare_v the_o mystery_n of_o it_o they_o have_v not_o faith_n to_o discern_v and_o apprehend_v it_o their_o affection_n immediate_o decay_v and_o they_o forsake_v both_o he_o and_o his_o doctrine_n vers_fw-la 66._o we_o may_v consider_v one_o especial_a instance_n of_o this_o nature_n person_n every_o day_n fall_v under_o great_a and_o effectual_a conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o their_o danger_n or_o certain_a misery_n thereby_o this_o stir_v up_o and_o act_v all_o their_o affection_n especial_o their_o fear_n hope_n desire_n sorrow_n self-revenge_n according_a as_o their_o condition_n call_v for_o they_o hence_o sometime_o they_o grow_v restless_a in_o their_o complaint_n and_o turn_v themselves_o every_o way_n for_o relief_n like_o man_n that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n and_o bewilder_v in_o the_o night_n but_o in_o this_o state_n and_o condition_n tell_v they_o of_o the_o only_a proper_a way_n and_o mean_n of_o their_o relief_n which_o let_v the_o world_n say_v what_o it_o will_v be_v christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n alone_o with_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o they_o quick_o discover_v that_o they_o be_v strange_a thing_n unto_o they_o such_o as_o they_o do_v not_o understand_v nor_o indeed_o approve_v they_o can_v see_v they_o they_o can_v discern_v they_o nor_o any_o beauty_n in_o they_o for_o which_o they_o shall_v be_v desire_v wherefore_o after_o their_o affection_n have_v be_v toss_v up_o and_o down_o for_o a_o season_n under_o the_o power_n and_o torment_n of_o this_o conviction_n they_o come_v unto_o one_o or_o other_o of_o these_o issue_n with_o they_o for_o either_o they_o utter_o decay_v and_o the_o mind_n lose_v all_o sense_n of_o any_o impression_n from_o they_o so_o as_o that_o they_o wonder_v in_o themselves_o whence_o they_o be_v so_o foolish_a as_o to_o be_v toss_v and_o trouble_v with_o such_o melancholy_a fancy_n and_o so_o common_o prove_v as_o bad_a a_o sort_n of_o man_n as_o live_v upon_o the_o earth_n or_o they_o take_v up_o in_o a_o formal_a legal_a profession_n wherein_o they_o never_o attain_v to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n this_o be_v the_o best_a end_n that_o our_o affection_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n not_o guide_v by_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n do_v come_v unto_o second_o faith_n have_v a_o clear_a prospect_n into_o and_o apprehension_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n
and_o a_o great_a valuation_n of_o earthly_a thing_n with_o their_o care_n about_o they_o and_o converse_v in_o they_o they_o abate_v and_o decay_v in_o their_o spiritual_a affection_n every_o day_n they_o will_v abide_v in_o their_o profession_n but_o have_v lose_v their_o first_o love_n it_o be_v a_o shame_n and_o folly_n unutterable_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o with_o any_o who_o make_v profession_n of_o that_o religion_n wherein_o there_o be_v so_o many_o incomparable_a excellency_n to_o endear_v and_o engage_v they_o to_o it_o more_o and_o more_o but_o why_o shall_v we_o hide_v what_o experience_n make_v manifest_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o sun_n and_o what_o multitude_n proclaim_v concern_v themselves_o wherefore_o i_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o great_a evidence_n if_o not_o absolute_o of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o grace_n yet_o of_o the_o life_n and_o growth_n of_o it_o when_o man_n as_o they_o grow_v up_o in_o age_n do_v grow_v in_o a_o undervaluation_n of_o present_a thing_n in_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n in_o duty_n of_o charity_n and_o bounty_n and_o decay_v not_o in_o any_o of_o they_o but_o i_o say_v it_o be_v usual_a that_o the_o entrance_n of_o man_n profession_n of_o religion_n and_o conversation_n unto_o god_n be_v attend_v with_o vigorous_a active_a affection_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n of_o they_o who_o real_o and_o sincere_o believe_v it_o be_v say_v that_o on_o their_o believe_v they_o rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n and_o of_o those_o who_o only_o have_v a_o work_n of_o conviction_n on_o they_o improve_v by_o temporary_a faith_n that_o they_o receive_v the_o word_n with_o joy_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n glad_o in_o this_o state_n do_v many_o abide_v and_o thrive_v until_o their_o affection_n be_v whole_o transform_v into_o the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o thing_n above_o but_o with_o many_o of_o all_o sort_n it_o be_v not_o so_o they_o fall_v into_o woeful_a decay_n as_o unto_o their_o affection_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o consequent_o in_o their_o whole_a profession_n and_o conversation_n their_o moisture_n become_v as_o the_o drought_n in_o summer_n they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o the_o life_n and_o act_n of_o they_o in_o themselves_o nor_o any_o comfort_n or_o refreshment_n from_o they_o they_o honour_v not_o the_o gospel_n with_o any_o fruit_n of_o love_n zeal_n or_o delight_n nor_o be_v useful_a any_o way_n unto_o other_o by_o their_o example_n some_o of_o they_o have_v have_v seem_v recovery_n and_o be_v yet_o again_o take_v into_o a_o lifeless_a frame_n warning_n afliction_n sickness_n the_o word_n have_v awaken_v they_o but_o they_o be_v fall_v again_o into_o a_o dead_a sleep_n so_o as_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v tree_n who_o fruit_n wither_v without_o fruit_n twice_o dead_a pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n some_o thing_n must_v be_v speak_v unto_o this_o woeful_a condition_n in_o general_n as_o that_o which_o be_v direct_o opposite_a unto_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a and_o contrary_a unto_o and_o obstructive_a of_o the_o growth_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n in_o a_o assimulation_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n and_o what_o shall_v be_v speak_v may_v be_v apply_v unto_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o these_o decay_n though_o all_o of_o they_o be_v not_o alike_o dangerous_a or_o perilous_a first_o there_o may_v be_v a_o time_n of_o temptation_n wherein_o a_o soul_n may_v apprehend_v in_o itself_o not_o only_o a_o decay_n in_o but_o a_o utter_a loss_n of_o all_o spiritual_a affection_n when_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o as_o believer_n may_v apprehend_v and_o judge_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v forsake_v and_o forget_v they_o when_o he_o have_v not_o do_v so_o isaiah_n 49.14_o 15._o so_o they_o may_v under_o their_o temptation_n apprehend_v that_o they_o have_v forsake_v god_n when_o they_o have_v not_o do_v so_o as_o a_o man_n in_o the_o night_n may_v apprehend_v he_o have_v lose_v his_o way_n and_o be_v in_o great_a distress_n when_o he_o be_v in_o his_o proper_a road._n for_o temptation_n bring_v darkness_n and_o amazement_n and_o lead_v into_o mistake_v and_o a_o false_a judgement_n in_o all_o thing_n they_o find_v not_o it_o may_v be_v grace_n work_v in_o love_n joy_n and_o delight_n as_o former_o nor_o that_o activity_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n in_o holy_a duty_n which_o spiritual_a affection_n give_v unto_o they_o but_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v the_o same_o grace_n work_v in_o godly_a sorrow_n by_o mourn_v humiliation_n and_o self-abasement_n no_o less_o effectual_o nor_o less_o acceptable_o unto_o god_n such_o as_o these_o i_o separate_v from_o the_o present_a consideration_n second_o there_o may_v be_v a_o decay_n in_o affection_n themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o act_n towards_o any_o object_n whatever_o at_o least_o as_o unto_o the_o outward_a symptom_n and_o effect_n of_o they_o and_o on_o this_o ground_n their_o opperation_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n may_v be_v less_o sensible_a so_o man_n in_o their_o young_a day_n may_v be_v more_o ready_a to_o express_v their_o sorrow_n by_o tear_n and_o their_o joy_n by_o sensible_a exaltation_n and_o motion_n of_o their_o spirit_n than_o in_o ripe_a year_n and_o this_o may_v be_v so_o when_o there_o be_v no_o decay_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o affection_n as_o renew_v but_o 1_o when_o it_o be_v so_o it_o be_v a_o burden_n unto_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v they_o can_v but_o mourn_v and_o have_v a_o godly-jealousy_n over_o themselves_o lest_o the_o decay_v they_o find_v shall_v not_o be_v in_o the_o outward_a but_o the_o inward_a not_o in_o the_o natural_a but_o the_o spiritual_a man._n and_o they_o will_v labour_v that_o in_o all_o duty_n and_o at_o all_o time_n it_o may_v be_v with_o they_o as_o in_o day_n of_o old_a although_o they_o can_v attain_v strength_n in_o they_o that_o vigour_n of_o spirit_n that_o life_n joy_n peace_n and_o comfort_n which_o any_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o second_o there_o will_v be_v in_o such_o person_n no_o decay_n in_o holiness_n of_o life_n nor_o as_o unto_o diligence_n in_o all_o religious_a duty_n if_o the_o decay_n be_v real_o of_o grace_n in_o the_o affection_n it_o will_v be_v accompany_v with_o a_o proportionable_a decay_n in_o all_o other_o thing_n wherein_o the_o life_n of_o god_n be_v concern_v but_o if_o it_o be_v only_o as_o unto_o the_o sensible_a act_n of_o natural_a affection_n no_o such_o decay_n will_v ensue_v three_o grace_n will_v in_o this_o case_n more_o vigorous_o act_v itself_o in_o the_o other_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o the_o judgement_n and_o the_o will_n in_o their_o approbation_n of_o and_o firm_a adherence_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o four_o when_o man_n find_v or_o may_v find_v their_o affection_n yet_o quick_a active_a and_o intent_n on_o other_o thing_n as_o the_o lawful_a enjoyment_n and_o comfort_n of_o this_o life_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a for_o they_o to_o relieve_v themselves_o that_o the_o decay_v they_o find_v be_v in_o their_o affection_n as_o natural_a and_o not_o as_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v gracious_a if_o we_o see_v a_o man_n in_o his_o old_a age_n grow_v more_o in_o love_n with_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n and_o less_o in_o love_n with_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o through_o the_o weakness_n of_o nature_n but_o through_o the_o strength_n of_o sin_n on_o these_o and_o it_o may_v be_v some_o other_o the_o like_a occasion_n there_o may_v be_v a_o apprehension_n of_o a_o decay_n in_o spiritual_a affection_n when_o it_o may_v not_o be_v so_o at_o least_o not_o unto_o the_o degree_n that_o be_v apprehend_v but_o when_o it_o be_v so_o real_o as_o it_o be_v evident_o with_o many_o i_o have_v almost_o say_v with_o the_o most_o in_o these_o day_n it_o be_v a_o woeful_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o never_o enough_o to_o be_v lament_v it_o be_v that_o which_o lie_v in_o direct_a contradiction_n unto_o that_o spiritual-mindedness_a which_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n it_o be_v a_o consumption_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o threaten_v it_o with_o death_n every_o day_n it_o belong_v not_o unto_o my_o design_n to_o treat_v of_o it_o in_o particular_a yet_o i_o can_v let_v it_o pass_v without_o some_o remark_n upon_o it_o it_o be_v a_o evil_a almost_o epidemical_a among_o professor_n and_o prevalent_a in_o some_o unto_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v utter_o forsake_v of_o all_o power_n of_o spiritual_a life_n now_o beside_o all_o that_o folly_n and_o sin_n which_o we_o before_o discover_v as_o the_o cause_n of_o the_o want_n of_o the_o growth_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o spirituality_n and_o heavenliness_n which_o in_o this_o case_n of_o their_o decay_n be_v more_o abominable_a there_o be_v a_o multiplication_n of_o evil_n wherewith_o this_o state_n of_o heart_n and_o
mind_n be_v accompany_v for_o first_o it_o be_v that_o which_o of_o all_o thing_n the_o lord_n christ_n be_v most_o displease_v with_o in_o church_n or_o professor_n he_o pity_v they_o in_o their_o temptation_n he_o suffer_v with_o they_o in_o their_o persecution_n he_o intercee_v for_o they_o on_o their_o surprisal_n but_o threaten_v they_o under_o their_o spiritual_a decay_n rev._n 2.4_o 5._o chap._n 3.2_o this_o he_o can_v bear_v with_o as_o that_o which_o both_o reflect_v dishonour_n upon_o himself_o and_o which_o he_o know_v to_o be_v ruinous_a unto_o those_o in_o who_o it_o be_v he_o will_v long_o bear_v with_o they_o who_o be_v utter_o dead_a than_o with_o those_o who_o abide_v under_o these_o decay_n rev._n 3.15_o 16._o this_o be_v the_o only_a case_n wherein_o he_o threaten_v to_o reject_v and_o cast_v off_o a_o profess_v church_n to_o take_v away_o his_o candlestick_n from_o it_o unless_o it_o be_v that_o of_o false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n he_o that_o speak_v thus_o unto_o the_o church_n of_o old_a speak_v now_o the_o same_o unto_o we_o for_o he_o live_v for_o ever_o and_o be_v always_o the_o same_o and_o his_o word_n be_v live_v and_o unchangeable_a there_o be_v not_o one_o of_o we_o who_o be_v under_o this_o frame_n but_o the_o lord_n christ_n by_o his_o word_n and_o spirit_n testify_v his_o displeasure_n against_o we_o and_o if_o he_o be_v against_o we_o who_o shall_v plead_v for_o we_o consider_v what_o he_o say_v in_o this_o case_n revel_v 2.5_o chapter_n 3.3_o o_o who_o can_v stand_v before_o these_o dreadful_a intimation_n of_o his_o displeasure_n the_o lord_n help_v we_o to_o mind_v it_o lest_o he_o in_o who_o we_o profess_v to_o place_v our_o only_a trust_n be_v in_o our_o trial_n find_v our_o great_a enemy_n take_v heed_n of_o such_o sin_n as_o christ_n himself_o our_o only_a advocate_n have_v put_v a_o mark_n upon_o as_o those_o which_o he_o will_v not_o save_v we_o in_o second_o it_o be_v that_o wherewith_o above_o all_o thing_n the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v grieve_v his_o work_n it_o be_v to_o give_v grace_n a_o increase_n and_o progress_n in_o our_o soul_n he_o begin_v it_o and_o he_o carry_v it_o on_o and_o there_o can_v be_v no_o great_a grief_n unto_o a_o wise_a and_o gracious_a worker_n than_o to_o have_v his_o work_n decay_n and_o go_v backward_o under_o his_o hand_n this_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o those_o complaint_n of_o god_n which_o we_o find_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o the_o unprofitableness_n and_o backslide_n of_o man_n after_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o remedy_n for_o their_o fruitfulness_n and_o cure_n what_o say_v he_o can_v i_o have_v do_v more_o for_o my_o vineyard_n than_o i_o have_v do_v why_o then_o when_o i_o look_v for_o grape_n do_v it_o bring_v forth_o wild_a grape_n can_v any_o thing_n be_v apprehend_v to_o be_v such_o a_o just_a matter_n of_o grief_n and_o complaint_n unto_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o see_v and_o find_v those_o who_o he_o have_v once_o raise_v up_o unto_o holy_a and_o heavenly_a affection_n so_o as_o that_o their_o delight_n be_v in_o and_o their_o thought_n much_o upon_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o to_o become_v earthly_a or_o sensual_a to_o have_v no_o sensible_a act_n of_o any_o of_o his_o grace_n in_o they_o which_o be_v the_o state_n of_o they_o who_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o spiritual_a decay_n and_o this_o be_v the_o only_a cause_n wherein_o god_n speak_v unto_o man_n in_o the_o way_n of_o complaint_n and_o expostulation_n and_o use_v all_o sort_n of_o argument_n to_o convince_v they_o of_o their_o folly_n herein_o when_o a_o wise_a tender_a and_o careful_a parent_n have_v be_v diligent_a in_o the_o use_n of_o all_o mean_n for_o the_o education_n of_o his_o child_n and_o he_o for_o some_o time_n have_v give_v good_a hope_n of_o himself_o find_v he_o to_o slacken_v in_o his_o diligence_n to_o be_v careless_a in_o his_o call_n to_o delight_v in_o evil_a company_n how_o solicitous_a be_v his_o heart_n about_o he_o how_o much_o be_v he_o grieve_v and_o affect_v with_o his_o miscarriage_n the_o heart_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v infinite_o more_o tender_a towards_o we_o than_o that_o of_o the_o most_o affectionate_a parent_n can_v be_v towards_o a_o only_a child_n and_o when_o he_o with_o cost_n and_o care_n have_v nourish_v and_o bring_v we_o up_o unto_o some_o growth_n and_o progress_n in_o spiritual_a affection_n wherein_o all_o his_o concern_v in_o we_o do_v lie_n for_o we_o to_o grow_v cold_a dull_a earthly-minded_n to_o cleave_v unto_o the_o pleasure_n or_o lust_n of_o this_o world_n how_o be_v he_o grieve_v how_o be_v he_o provoke_v it_o may_v be_v this_o consideration_n of_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v of_o no_o great_a weight_n with_o some_o they_o shall_v have_v little_a concernment_n herein_o if_o they_o can_v well_o free_v themselves_o in_o other_o respect_n but_o let_v such_o person_n know_v it_o be_v impossible_a for_o they_o to_o give_v a_o great_a evidence_n of_o a_o profligate_n hardness_n in_o sin_n three_o this_o be_v that_o which_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n provoke_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n against_o any_o church_n as_o be_v intimate_v before_o when_o in_o the_o order_n of_o profession_n and_o worship_n any_o church_n have_v a_o name_n to_o live_v but_o as_o to_o the_o power_n of_o grace_n act_v in_o the_o affection_n be_v dead_a when_o it_o be_v not_o so_o cold_a as_o to_o forsake_v the_o external_a institution_n of_o worship_n nor_o so_o hot_a as_o to_o enliven_v their_o duty_n with_o spiritual_a affection_n the_o lord_n christ_n will_v not_o long_o bear_v with_o they_o yea_o judgement_n will_v sudden_o break_v out_o towards_o such_o a_o house_n of_o god_n four_o it_o be_v absolute_o inconsistent_a with_o all_o comfortable_a assurance_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n whatever_o person_n under_o the_o power_n of_o such_o a_o frame_n pretend_v unto_o of_o that_o kind_n it_o be_v sinful_a security_n not_o gracious_a assurance_n or_o peace_n and_o constant_o as_o professor_n grow_v cold_a and_o decay_n in_o their_o spiritual_a affection_n stupidity_n of_o conscience_n and_o security_n of_o mind_n do_v grow_v also_o uâ—on_v they_o it_o be_v so_o i_o say_v unless_o they_o be_v sometime_o surprise_v or_o overtake_v with_o some_o great_a sin_n which_o reflect_v severe_o on_o their_o conscience_n and_o cast_v they_o for_o a_o time_n under_o trouble_n and_o distress_n but_o that_o peace_n with_o god_n and_o a_o comfortable_a assurance_n of_o salvation_n shall_v be_v consistent_a with_o a_o habitual_a decay_n in_o grace_n especial_o in_o those_o grace_n which_o shall_v act_v themselves_o in_o our_o affection_n be_v contrary_a to_o the_o whole_a tenor_n and_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o supposition_n of_o it_o will_v be_v the_o bane_n and_o poison_n of_o religion_n i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o our_o assurance_n and_o peace_n with_o god_n do_v arise_v whole_o from_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o we_o there_o be_v other_o cause_n of_o they_o whereinto_o they_o be_v principal_o resolve_v but_o this_o i_o say_v under_o a_o habitual_a declension_n or_o decay_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o spirituality_n of_o our_o affection_n no_o man_n can_v keep_v or_o maintain_v a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n or_o of_o peace_n with_o he_o and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o duty_n more_o severe_o to_o be_v press_v on_o all_o at_o this_o day_n than_o a_o diligent_a examination_n and_o trial_n of_o the_o ground_n of_o their_o peace_n lest_o it_o shall_v be_v with_o any_o of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v with_o luodicen_n who_o be_v satisfy_v in_o her_o good_a state_n and_o condition_n when_o it_o be_v most_o miserable_a and_o almost_o desperate_a yea_o i_o must_v say_v that_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o many_o professor_n who_o we_o see_v and_o converse_v withal_o shall_v have_v any_o solid_a peace_n with_o god_n do_v man_n gather_v fig_n from_o thorn_n or_o grape_n from_o thistle_n it_o be_v a_o fruit_n that_o will_v not_o grow_v on_o a_o vain_a earthly_a selfish_a frame_n of_o mind_n and_o conversation_n and_o therefore_o such_o person_n whatever_o they_o pretend_v be_v either_o asleep_a in_o a_o sinful_a security_n or_o live_v on_o most_o uncertain_a hope_n which_o probable_o may_v deceive_v they_o nothing_o can_v be_v so_o ruinous_a unto_o our_o profession_n as_o once_o to_o suppose_v it_o be_v a_o easy_a matter_n a_o thing_n of_o course_n to_o maintain_v our_o peace_n with_o god_n god_n forbid_v but_o that_o our_o utmost_a diligence_n and_o continue_a endeavour_n to_o thrive_v in_o every_o grace_n shall_v be_v require_v thereunto_o the_o whole_a beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o our_o religion_n depend_v hereon_o to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n 5._o such_o a_o decay_n as_o that_o describe_v
that_o our_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v and_o that_o they_o have_v receive_v some_o progress_n in_o a_o assimulation_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n namely_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v delight_v in_o make_v christ_n their_o pattern_n in_o all_o thing_n second_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o their_o utmost_a spiritual_a improvement_n be_v the_o scripture_n and_o two_o thing_n be_v respect_v in_o they_o 1_o their_o internal_a act_n 2_o their_o exercise_n in_o outward_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o they_o be_v express_v of_o they_o both_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o entire_a rule_n and_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o former_a it_o give_v we_o one_o general_a law_n or_o rule_n that_o be_v comprehensive_a of_o all_o other_o namely_o that_o we_o love_v the_o lord_n our_o god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n soul_n mind_n and_o strength_n the_o act_n of_o all_o our_o affection_n towards_o god_n in_o the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o perfection_n be_v require_v of_o we_o that_o in_o all_o instance_n we_o prefer_v and_o value_v he_o above_o all_o thing_n that_o we_o inseparable_o cleave_v unto_o he_o and_o do_v nothing_o whatever_o at_o any_o time_n that_o be_v not_o influence_v and_o direct_v by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n this_o perfection_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v immediate_o be_v not_o attainable_a absolute_o in_o this_o life_n but_o it_o be_v propose_v unto_o we_o as_o that_o which_o the_o excellency_n of_o god_n nature_n require_v and_o which_o the_o faculty_n &_o power_n of_o our_o nature_n be_v crear_v for_o and_o which_o we_o ought_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o design_n and_o aim_v at_o but_o the_o indispensible_a obligation_n of_o this_o rule_n be_v that_o we_o shall_v always_o be_v in_o a_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o cleave_v unto_o god_n continual_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o prefer_v he_o above_o all_o and_o delight_n in_o he_o as_o our_o chief_a good_n when_o this_o frame_n and_o disposition_n be_v habitual_o fix_v in_o our_o mind_n it_o will_v declare_v and_o act_v itself_o in_o all_o instance_n of_o duty_n on_o all_o occasion_n of_o trial_n when_o other_o thing_n put_v in_o for_o a_o predominant_a interest_n in_o our_o affection_n as_o they_o do_v every_o day_n and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o we_o we_o shall_v be_v at_o a_o continual_a loss_n in_o all_o our_o way_n this_o be_v that_o which_o make_v we_o lifeless_a and_o heartless_a in_o duty_n careless_a in_o temptation_n or_o occasion_n of_o they_o forgetful_a of_o god_n when_o it_o be_v impossible_a we_o shall_v be_v preserve_v from_o sin_n without_o a_o due_a remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n in_o brief_a the_o want_n of_o a_o predominant_a love_n unto_o god_n keep_v in_o continual_a exercise_n be_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o that_o unprofitable_a profession_n of_o religion_n that_o the_o world_n be_v fill_v withal_o second_o there_o be_v outward_a way_n and_o duty_n whereby_o our_o spiritual_a affection_n be_v express_v the_o rule_n of_o they_o also_o be_v the_o scripture_n the_o way_n mark_v out_o therein_o be_v the_o only_a channel_n wherein_o the_o stream_n of_o our_o spiritual_a affection_n do_v take_v its_o course_n unto_o god_n the_o grace_n require_v therein_o be_v to_o act_v themselves_o by_o the_o duty_n it_o prescribe_v arâ—_n those_o which_o they_o stir_v up_o and_o enliven_v the_o religious_a worship_n it_o appoint_v be_v that_o wherein_o they_o have_v their_o exercise_n where_o this_o rule_n have_v be_v neglect_v man_n religious_a affection_n have_v grow_v irregular_a yea_o wild_a and_o ungovernable_a all_o the_o superstition_n that_o the_o world_n be_v fill_v withal_o owe_v their_o original_n principal_o unto_o man_n affection_n set_v at_o loose_a from_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n there_o be_v nothing_o so_o fond_a absurd_a and_o foolish_a but_o they_o have_v imbondaged_a the_o â—ouls_n of_o man_n unto_o nothing_o so_o horrid_a and_o difficult_a but_o they_o have_v engage_v they_o in_o and_o have_v once_o take_v unto_o themselves_o this_o liberty_n the_o corrupt_a mind_n of_o man_n be_v a_o thousand_o time_n more_o satisfy_v than_o in_o the_o regular_a exercise_n of_o they_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n hence_o they_o will_v rejoice_v in_o such_o penance_n as_o be_v not_o without_o their_o austeritys_n in_o such_o outward_a duty_n of_o devotion_n as_o be_v troublesome_a and_o chargeable_a in_o every_o thing_n that_o have_v a_o show_n of_o wisdom_n in_o will-worship_n and_o humility_n and_o neglect_v of_o the_o body_n hence_o will_v all_o their_o affection_n be_v more_o sensible_o move_v by_o image_n and_o picture_n and_o a_o melt_a devotion_n be_v stir_v up_o in_o they_o than_o by_o all_o the_o motive_n and_o incentives_n which_o god_n propose_v unto_o they_o to_o draw_v their_o affection_n unto_o himself_o nothing_o be_v more_o extravagant_a than_o the_o affection_n of_o man_n tincture_v with_o some_o devotion_n if_o they_o forsake_v the_o rule_n of_o the_o scripture_n three_o there_o be_v considerable_a concern_v they_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o attainment_n or_o what_o through_o due_a exercise_n and_o holy_a diligence_n they_o may_v be_v raise_v unto_o now_o this_o be_v not_o absolute_a perfection_n not_o as_o though_o i_o have_v already_o attain_v or_o be_v already_o perfect_a but_o i_o follow_v after_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v phil._n 3.12_o but_o there_o be_v that_o attainable_a which_o those_o who_o pretend_v high_o unto_o perfection_n seem_v to_o be_v stranger_n unto_o and_o the_o state_n of_o our_o affection_n under_o a_o due_a exercise_n on_o heavenly_a thing_n and_o in_o their_o assimulation_n unto_o they_o may_v be_v fix_v in_o these_o three_o thing_n 1_o a_o habitual_a suitableness_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n upon_o the_o proposal_n of_o they_o the_o way_n whereby_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v propose_v unto_o our_o mind_n be_v various_a they_o be_v so_o direct_o in_o all_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n they_o be_v so_o indirect_o and_o in_o just_a consequence_n by_o all_o the_o especial_a providence_n wherein_o we_o be_v concern_v by_o our_o own_o thought_n and_o state_v meditation_n they_o be_v so_o by_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n when_o he_o cause_v we_o to_o hear_v a_o â—ord_n behind_o we_o say_v this_o be_v the_o way_n walk_v in_o it_o by_o holy_a converse_n with_o other_o by_o all_o sort_n of_o occurrence_n and_o as_o the_o way_n of_o their_o proposal_n be_v various_a so_o the_o time_n and_o season_n wherein_o a_o representation_n of_o they_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o be_v comprehensive_a of_o all_o at_o least_o be_v not_o exclusive_a of_o any_o time_n and_o season_n of_o our_o life_n be_v the_o way_n of_o their_o proposal_n what_o it_o will_v and_o when_o ever_o be_v the_o season_n of_o it_o if_o our_o affection_n be_v due_o improve_v by_o spiritual_a exercise_n they_o be_v suit_v unto_o they_o and_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o give_v they_o entertainment_n hence_o or_o for_o want_v hereof_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n be_v â—ergiversations_n and_o shift_n in_o duty_n proneness_n to_o comply_v with_o diversion_n all_o to_o keep_v off_o the_o mind_n from_o close_v with_o and_o receive_v of_o those_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o it_o be_v not_o suit_v unto_o wherefore_o as_o unto_o the_o solemn_a way_n of_o propose_v spiritual_a thing_n unto_o our_o mind_n which_o be_v in_o and_o by_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n when_o man_n have_v a_o prevalent_a loathness_n to_o engage_v in_o they_o or_o when_o they_o be_v satisfy_v with_o a_o outward_a attendance_n on_o they_o but_o not_o enable_v unto_o a_o vigorous_a stir_v up_o of_o the_o inward_a man_n unto_o a_o holy_a affectionate_a converse_n with_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n it_o be_v because_o they_o be_v carnal_a when_o man_n can_v receive_v the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n in_o his_o temptation_n into_o their_o bosom_n and_o suffer_v they_o to_o abide_v there_o yea_o foster_n and_o cherish_v they_o in_o thought_n of_o the_o lust_n that_o they_o kindle_v but_o quick_o quench_v the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n stir_v they_o up_o unto_o the_o embrace_v of_o heavenly_a thing_n they_o be_v carnal_a and_o carnally-minded_n when_o providence_n of_o concernment_n in_o affliction_n trial_n deliverance_n do_v not_o engage_v the_o mind_n into_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o excite_v the_o affection_n unto_o the_o entertainment_n of_o they_o man_n be_v carnal_a and_o earthly_a when_o every_o lust_n corruption_n or_o passion_n as_o anger_n envy_n displeasure_n at_o this_o or_o that_o person_n or_o thing_n can_v divert_v the_o mind_n from_o compliance_n with_o the_o proposal_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o it_o we_o be_v carnal_a it_o be_v otherwise_o when_o our_o affection_n be_v conform_v unto_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a upon_o every_o proposal_n of_o this_o the_o mind_n find_v a_o suitableness_n unto_o itself_o like_o that_o
way_n these_o thought_n man_n approve_v themselves_o in_o and_o judge_v they_o their_o duty_n as_o they_o be_v in_o their_o proper_a place_n and_o measure_n but_o no_o heart_n can_v conceive_v the_o multitude_n of_o these_o thought_n which_o partly_o in_o contrivance_n partly_o in_o converse_n be_v engage_v and_o spend_v about_o these_o thing_n and_o the_o more_o man_n be_v immerse_v in_o they_o the_o more_o do_v themselves_o and_o other_o esteem_v they_o diligent_a and_o praiseworthy_a and_o there_o be_v some_o who_o have_v neither_o necessity_n nor_o occasion_n to_o be_v engage_v much_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o any_o especial_a call_v who_o yet_o by_o their_o word_n and_o action_n declare_v themselves_o to_o be_v confine_v almost_o in_o their_o thought_n unto_o themselves_o their_o relation_n their_o child_n and_o their self_o concern_v which_o tho_o most_o of_o they_o be_v very_o impertinent_a yet_o they_o justify_v themselves_o in_o they_o all_o sort_n may_v do_v well_o to_o examine_v what_o proportion_n their_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v bear_v unto_o those_o of_o other_o thing_n i_o fear_v with_o most_o it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v very_o small_a with_o many_o next_o to_o none_o at_o all_o what_o evidence_n then_o can_v they_o have_v that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v that_o their_o principal_a interest_n lie_v in_o thing_n above_o it_o may_v be_v it_o will_v be_v ask_v whether_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o man_n shall_v think_v as_o much_o and_o as_o often_o about_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a as_o they_o do_v about_o the_o lawful_a affair_n of_o their_o calling_n i_o say_v more_o and_o more_o often_o if_o we_o be_v what_o we_o profess_v ourselves_o to_o be_v general_o it_o be_v the_o best_a sort_n of_o man_n as_o to_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o man_n who_o be_v busy_v in_o their_o calling_n some_o of_o one_o sort_n some_o of_o another_o but_o even_o among_o the_o best_a of_o these_o many_o will_v continual_o spend_v the_o strength_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o vigour_n of_o their_o spirit_n about_o their_o affair_n all_o the_o day_n long_o and_o so_o they_o can_v pray_v in_o the_o morning_n and_o evening_n with_o some_o thought_n sometime_o of_o spiritual_a thing_n occasional_o administer_v do_v suppose_v they_o acquit_v themselves_o very_o well_o as_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v pretend_v that_o his_o great_a design_n be_v to_o prepare_v himself_o for_o a_o voyage_n unto_o a_o far_a country_n where_o be_v his_o patrimony_n and_o his_o inheritance_n but_o all_o his_o thought_n and_o contrivance_n be_v about_o some_o few_o trifle_n which_o if_o indeed_o he_o intend_v his_o voyage_n he_o must_v leave_v behind_o he_o and_o of_o his_o main_a design_n he_o scarce_o think_v at_o all_o we_o all_o profess_v that_o we_o be_v bind_v for_o heaven_n immortality_n and_o glory_n but_o be_v it_o any_o evidence_n we_o real_o design_v it_o if_o all_o our_o thought_n be_v consume_v about_o the_o trifle_n of_o this_o world_n which_o we_o must_v leave_v behind_o we_o and_o have_v only_o occasional_a thought_n of_o thing_n above_o i_o shall_v elsewhere_o show_v if_o god_n will_v how_o man_n may_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o their_o earthly_a affair_n if_o some_o relief_n may_v not_o be_v thence_o obtain_v i_o can_v tell_v what_o to_o say_v or_o answer_v for_o they_o who_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v not_o hold_v proportion_n with_o yea_o exceed_v they_o which_o they_o lie_v out_o about_o their_o calling_n this_o whole_a rule_n be_v ground_v on_o that_o of_o our_o saviour_n math._n 6.31_o 32_o 33_o 34._o take_v no_o thought_n say_v what_o shall_v we_o eat_v or_o what_o shall_v we_o drink_v or_o wherewith_o we_o shall_v be_v clothe_v but_o seek_v first_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n and_o all_o these_o thing_n shall_v be_v add_v unto_o you_o take_v therefore_o no_o thought_n for_o to_o morrow_n when_o we_o have_v do_v all_o we_o can_v when_o we_o have_v make_v the_o best_a of_o they_o we_o be_v able_a all_o earthly_a thing_n as_o unto_o our_o interest_n in_o they_o amount_v to_o no_o more_o but_o what_o we_o eat_v what_o we_o drink_v and_o wherewith_o we_o be_v clothe_v about_o these_o thing_n our_o saviour_n forbid_v we_o to_o take_v any_o thought_n not_o absolute_o but_o with_o a_o double_a limitation_n as_o first_o that_o we_o take_v no_o such_o thought_n about_o they_o as_o shall_v carry_v along_o with_o it_o a_o disquietment_n of_o mind_n through_o a_o distrust_n of_o the_o fatherly_a care_n and_o providence_n of_o god_n this_o be_v the_o design_n of_o the_o context_n second_o no_o thought_n that_o for_o constancy_n and_o engagement_n of_o spirit_n shall_v be_v like_a unto_o those_o which_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v about_o spiritual_a thing_n seek_v first_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n let_v that_o be_v the_o chief_a and_o principal_a thing_n in_o your_o thought_n and_o conscience_n we_o may_v therefore_o conclude_v that_o at_o least_o they_o must_v hold_v a_o exceed_a proportion_n with_o they_o let_v a_o man_n industrious_o engage_v in_o the_o way_n of_o his_o call_v try_v himself_o by_o this_o rule_n every_o evening_n let_v he_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v his_o thought_n about_o his_o earthly_a occasion_n and_o what_o about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o thereon_o ask_v of_o himself_o whether_o he_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v or_o no._n be_v not_o deceive_v as_o a_o man_n think_v so_o be_v he_o and_o if_o we_o account_v it_o a_o strange_a thing_n that_o our_o thought_n shall_v be_v more_o exercise_v about_o spiritual_a thing_n than_o about_o the_o affair_n of_o our_o calling_n we_o must_v not_o think_v it_o strange_a if_o when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o trial_n we_o can_v find_v that_o we_o have_v either_o life_n or_o peace_n moreover_o it_o be_v know_v how_o often_o when_o we_o be_v engage_v in_o spiritual_a duty_n other_o thought_n will_v interpose_v and_o impose_v themselves_o on_o our_o mind_n those_o which_o be_v about_o man_n secular_a concernment_n will_v do_v so_o the_o world_n will_v frequent_o make_v a_o inroad_n on_o the_o way_n to_o heaven_n to_o disturb_v the_o passenger_n and_o wayfaring_a man_n there_o be_v nothing_o more_o frequent_o complain_v of_o by_o such_o as_o be_v awake_a unto_o their_o duty_n and_o sensible_a of_o their_o weakness_n call_v to_o mind_n therefore_o how_o often_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n spiritual_a thought_n do_v interpose_v and_o as_o it_o be_v impose_v themselves_o on_o your_o mind_n while_o you_o be_v engage_v in_o your_o earthly_a affair_n sometime_o no_o doubt_n but_o with_o all_o that_o be_v true_a believer_n it_o be_v so_o or_o ever_o i_o be_v aware_a say_v the_o spouse_n my_o soul_n make_v i_o as_o the_o chariot_n of_o amminadab_n cant._n 6.12_o grace_n in_o she_o own_o soul_n surprise_v she_o into_o a_o ready_a willing_a frame_n unto_o spiritual_a communion_n with_o christ_n when_o she_o be_v intent_n on_o other_o occasion_n but_o if_o these_o thought_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n so_o arise_v in_o we_o bear_v no_o proportion_n with_o the_o other_o sort_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n what_o frame_n and_o principle_n be_v predominant_a in_o we_o 2._o there_o be_v a_o multitude_n of_o thought_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n which_o be_v vain_a useless_a and_o altogether_o unprofitable_a these_o ordinary_o through_o a_o dangerous_a mistake_n be_v look_v on_o as_o not_o sinful_a because_o as_o it_o be_v suppose_v the_o matter_n of_o they_o be_v not_o so_o and_o therefore_o man_n rather_o shake_v they_o off_o for_o their_o folly_n than_o their_o gild_n but_o they_o arise_v from_o a_o corrupt_a fountain_n and_o woeful_o pollute_v both_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n wherever_o there_o be_v vain_a thought_n there_o be_v sin_n jerem._n 4.14_o such_o be_v those_o numberless_a imagination_n whereby_o man_n fancy_v themselves_o to_o be_v what_o they_o be_v not_o to_o do_v what_o they_o do_v not_o to_o enjoy_v what_o they_o enjoy_v not_o to_o dispose_v of_o themselves_o and_o other_o at_o their_o pleasure_n that_o our_o nature_n be_v liable_a unto_o such_o a_o pernicious_a folly_n which_o some_o of_o tenacious_a fancy_n have_v turn_v into_o madness_n we_o be_v behold_v alone_o to_o our_o curse_a apostasy_n from_o god_n and_o the_o vanity_n that_o possess_v our_o mind_n thereon_o hence_o the_o prince_n of_o tyrus_n think_v he_o be_v a_o god_n and_o sit_v in_o the_o seat_n of_o god_n ezek._n 28.2_o so_o it_o have_v be_v with_o other_o and_o in_o those_o in_o who_o such_o imagination_n be_v keep_v unto_o some_o better_a order_n and_o bound_n yet_o be_v trace_v unto_o their_o original_a they_o will_v be_v find_v to_o spring_v some_o of_o they_o immediate_o from_o pride_n some_o from_o sensual_a lust_n some_o from_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n all_o from_o self_n and_o the_o
old_a ambition_n to_o be_v as_o god_n to_o dispose_v of_o all_o thing_n as_o we_o think_v meet_v i_o know_v no_o great_a misery_n or_o punishment_n in_o this_o world_n than_o the_o debase_v of_o our_o nature_n to_o such_o vain_a imagination_n and_o a_o perfect_a freedom_n from_o they_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o blessedness_n of_o heaven_n it_o be_v not_o my_o present_a work_n to_o show_v how_o sinful_a they_o be_v let_v they_o be_v esteem_v only_o fruitless_a foolish_a vain_a and_o ludicrous_a but_o let_v man_n examine_v themselves_o what_o number_n of_o these_o vain_a useless_a thought_n night_n and_o day_n do_fw-mi roave_fw-it up_o and_o down_o in_o their_o mind_n if_o now_o it_o be_v apprehend_v too_o severe_a that_o man_n thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n shall_v exceed_v they_o that_o be_v employ_v about_o their_o lawful_a calling_n let_v they_o consider_v what_o proportion_n they_o bear_v unto_o those_o which_o be_v altogether_o vain_a and_o useless_a do_v not_o many_o give_v more_o time_n unto_o they_o than_o they_o do_v unto_o holy_a meditation_n without_o a_o endeavour_n to_o mortify_v the_o one_o or_o to_o stir_v up_o and_o enliven_v the_o other_o be_v they_o not_o more_o wont_a to_o their_o season_n than_o holy_a thought_n be_v and_o shall_v we_o suppose_v that_o those_o with_o who_o it_o be_v so_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v 3._o there_o be_v thought_n that_o be_v formal_o evil_a they_o be_v so_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n be_v corrupt_a contrivance_n to_o fulfil_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o flesh_n in_o the_o lust_n thereof_o these_o also_o will_v attempt_v the_o mind_n of_o believer_n but_o they_o be_v always_o look_v on_o as_o profess_a enemy_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o be_v watch_v against_o i_o shall_v not_o therefore_o make_v any_o comparison_n between_o they_o and_o spiritual_a thought_n for_o they_o abound_v only_o in_o they_o that_o be_v carnal_o mind_v 2._o the_o second_o rule_n to_o this_o purpose_n be_v that_o we_o will_v consider_v whether_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v constant_o take_v possession_n of_o their_o proper_a season_n there_o be_v some_o time_n and_o season_n in_o the_o course_n of_o man_n life_n wherein_o they_o retire_v themselves_o unto_o their_o own_o thought_n the_o most_o busy_v man_n in_o the_o world_n have_v some_o time_n of_o think_v unto_o themselves_o and_o those_o who_o design_v no_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v afraid_a of_o come_v to_o be_v wise_a or_o better_a than_o they_o be_v do_v yet_o spend_v time_n therein_o whether_o they_o will_v or_o no._n but_o they_o who_o be_v wise_a will_v be_v at_o home_n as_o much_o as_o they_o can_v and_o have_v as_o many_o season_n for_o such_o their_o retirement_n as_o be_v possible_a for_o they_o to_o attain_v if_o that_o man_n be_v foolish_a who_o busy_v himself_o so_o much_o abroad_o in_o the_o concern_v of_o other_o that_o he_o have_v no_o time_n to_o consider_v the_o state_n of_o his_o own_o house_n and_o family_n much_o more_o be_v he_o so_o who_o spend_v all_o his_o thought_n about_o other_o thing_n and_o never_o make_v use_v of_o they_o in_o a_o enquiry_n how_o it_o be_v with_o himself_o and_o his_o own_o soul_n however_o man_n can_v hardly_o avoid_v but_o that_o they_o must_v have_v some_o season_n partly_o state_v partly_o occasional_a wherein_o they_o entertain_v themselves_o with_o their_o own_o thought_n the_o evening_n and_o the_o morning_n the_o time_n of_o wake_v on_o the_o bed_n those_o of_o the_o necessary_a cessation_n of_o all_o ordinary_a affair_n of_o walk_v journey_a and_o the_o like_a be_v such_o season_n if_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v if_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v abound_v in_o we_o they_o will_v ordinary_o and_o that_o with_o constancy_n possess_v these_o season_n look_v upon_o they_o as_o those_o which_o be_v their_o due_n which_o belong_v unto_o they_o for_o they_o be_v express_o assign_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o way_n of_o rule_n express_v in_o example_n and_o command_n see_v psal._n 16.7_o 8._o psal._n 92.2_o deut._n 6.7_o if_o they_o be_v usual_o give_v up_o unto_o other_o end_n and_o occasion_n be_v possess_v with_o thought_n of_o another_o nature_n it_o be_v a_o open_a evidence_n that_o spiritual_a thought_n have_v but_o little_a interest_n in_o our_o mind_n little_a prevalency_n in_o the_o conduct_n of_o our_o soul_n it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o afford_v unto_o they_o state_v time_n take_v away_o from_o other_o affair_n that_o call_v for_o they_o but_o if_o instead_o thereof_o we_o rob_v they_o of_o what_o be_v as_o it_o be_v their_o own_o which_o no_o other_o thing_n or_o business_n can_v lay_v any_o just_a claim_n unto_o how_o dwell_v the_o love_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o we_o most_o professor_n be_v convince_v that_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o pray_v morning_n and_o evening_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o they_o be_v all_o find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o but_o if_o ordinary_o they_o judge_v themselves_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o that_o duty_n to_o be_v discharge_v from_o any_o further_a exercise_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n apply_v they_o unto_o thing_n worldy_a useless_a or_o vain_a they_o can_v make_v no_o pretence_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o it_o must_v be_v observe_v which_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v true_a that_o if_o the_o season_n which_o be_v as_o it_o be_v due_a unto_o such_o meditation_n be_v take_v from_o they_o they_o will_v be_v the_o worst_a employ_v of_o all_o the_o minute_n of_o our_o life_n vain_a and_o foolish_a thought_n corrupt_a imagination_n will_v make_v a_o common_a haunt_n unto_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n in_o they_o and_o habituate_v themselves_o unto_o a_o expectation_n of_o entertainment_n whence_o they_o will_v grow_v importunate_n for_o admission_n hence_o with_o many_o those_o precious_a moment_n of_o time_n which_o may_v great_o influence_n their_o soul_n unto_o life_n and_o peace_n if_o they_o be_v indeed_o spiritual_o mind_v make_v the_o great_a provision_n for_o their_o trouble_n sorrow_n and_o confusion_n for_o the_o vain_a and_o evil_a thought_n which_o some_o person_n do_v accustom_v themselves_o unto_o in_o such_o season_n be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v a_o burden_n upon_o their_o conscience_n more_o than_o they_o can_v bear_v that_o which_o providence_n tender_v unto_o their_o good_a be_v turn_v into_o a_o snare_n and_o god_n do_v righteous_o leave_v they_o unto_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o own_o folly_n who_o so_o despise_v his_o gracious_a provision_n for_o their_o good_a if_o we_o can_v afford_v unto_o god_n our_o spare_a time_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o indeed_o we_o can_v afford_v nothing_o at_o all_o micah_n 2.1_o they_o devise_v iniquity_n upon_o their_o bed_n the_o season_n proper_a for_o holy_a contemplation_n they_o make_v use_v of_o to_o fill_v their_o mind_n with_o wicked_a imagination_n and_o when_o the_o morning_n be_v light_a they_o practise_v it_o walk_v all_o day_n on_o all_o occasion_n suitable_o unto_o their_o device_n and_o imagination_n of_o the_o night_n many_o will_v have_v cause_n to_o complain_v unto_o eternity_n of_o those_o leisure_n time_n which_o may_v have_v be_v improve_v for_o their_o advantage_n unto_o eternal_a blessedness_n if_o we_o intend_v therefore_o to_o maintain_v a_o title_n unto_o this_o grace_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v if_o we_o will_v have_v any_o evidence_n of_o it_o in_o ourselves_o without_o which_o we_o can_v have_v none_o of_o life_n or_o peace_n and_o what_o we_o pretend_v thereof_o be_v but_o a_o effect_n of_o security_n we_o must_v endeavour_v to_o preserve_v the_o claim_n and_o right_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n unto_o such_o season_n and_o actual_o put_v they_o in_o possession_n of_o they_o 3._o consider_v how_o we_o be_v affect_v with_o our_o disappointment_n about_o these_o season_n have_v we_o by_o negligence_n by_o temptation_n have_v we_o by_o occasional_a diversion_n or_o affair_n of_o life_n be_v take_v off_o from_o thought_n of_o god_n of_o christ_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n when_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v engage_v in_o they_o how_o be_v we_o affect_v with_o a_o review_n hereof_o a_o carnal_a mind_n be_v well_o enough_o satisfy_v with_o the_o omission_n of_o any_o duty_n so_o it_o have_v pretence_n of_o a_o necessary_a occasion_n if_o it_o have_v lose_v a_o temporal_a advantage_n through_o attendance_n unto_o a_o spiritual_a duty_n it_o will_v deep_o reflect_v on_o itself_o and_o it_o may_v be_v like_o the_o duty_n the_o worse_a afterward_o but_o a_o gracious_a soul_n one_o that_o be_v true_o spiritually-minded_n will_v mourn_v under_o a_o review_n of_o such_o omission_n and_o by_o every_o one_o of_o they_o be_v stir_v up_o unto_o more_o watchfulness_n for_o the_o future_a alas_o will_v it_o say_v how_o little_a have_v i_o be_v with_o christ_n this_o day_n how_o much_o time_n have_v pass_v i_o without_o