and_o forgiveness_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o o_o god_n from_o who_o all_o holy_a desire_n all_o good_a counsel_n and_o all_o just_a work_n do_v proceed_v give_v unto_o thy_o servant_n that_o peace_n which_o the_o world_n can_v give_v that_o both_o our_o heart_n may_v be_v set_v to_o obey_v thy_o commandment_n and_o also_o that_o by_o thou_o we_o be_v defend_v from_o the_o fear_n of_o our_o enemy_n may_v pass_v our_o time_n in_o rest_n and_o quietness_n through_o the_o merit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n our_o saviour_n amen_n lighten_v our_o darkness_n we_o beseech_v thou_o o_o lord_n and_o by_o thy_o great_a mercy_n defend_v we_o from_o all_o peril_n and_o danger_n of_o this_o night_n for_o the_o love_n of_o thy_o only_a son_n our_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n amen_n almighty_a god_n who_o see_v that_o we_o have_v no_o power_n of_o ourselves_o to_o help_v ourselves_o keep_v we_o both_o outward_o in_o our_o body_n and_o inward_o in_o our_o soul_n that_o we_o may_v be_v desended_a from_o all_o adversity_n which_o may_v happen_v to_o the_o body_n and_o from_o all_o evil_a thought_n which_o may_v assault_v and_o hurt_v the_o soul_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o o_o almighty_a god_n who_o alone_a can_v order_v the_o unruly_a will_n and_o affection_n of_o sinful_a man_n grant_v to_o thy_o people_n that_o they_o may_v love_v the_o thing_n which_o thou_o command_v and_o desire_v that_o which_o thou_o do_v promise_v so_o that_o among_o all_o the_o sundry_a and_o manifold_a change_n of_o the_o world_n our_o heart_n may_v sure_o there_o be_v fix_v where_o true_a joy_n be_v to_o be_v find_v through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o o_o lord_n who_o never_o fail_v to_o help_v and_o govern_v they_o who_o thou_o do_v bring_v up_o in_o thy_o steadfast_a fear_n and_o love_n keep_v we_o we_o beseech_v thou_o under_o the_o protection_n of_o thy_o good_a providence_n and_o make_v we_o to_o have_v a_o perpetual_a fear_n and_o love_n of_o thy_o holy_a name_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o o_o god_n who_o never_o fail_v providence_n order_v all_o thing_n both_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n we_o humble_o beseech_v thou_o to_o put_v away_o from_o we_o all_o hurtful_a thing_n and_o to_o give_v we_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v profitable_a for_o we_o through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o be_v merciful_a o_o lord_n to_o this_o church_n and_o nation_n punish_v we_o not_o accord-to_a our_o deserve_n but_o let_v thy_o mercy_n protect_v and_o save_v we_o from_o the_o evil_a hand_n of_o all_o our_o restless_a enemy_n continue_v thy_o word_n and_o gospel_n among_o we_o remit_v our_o senseless_a division_n open_v the_o eye_n and_o heart_n of_o all_o our_o dissent_v and_o disaffect_v brethren_n that_o they_o may_v embrace_v thy_o truth_n set_v aside_o all_o prejudice_n and_o join_v with_o we_o thy_o servant_n in_o the_o sincere_a worship_n of_o thou_o the_o true_a god_n all_o this_o we_o beg_v for_o jesus_n christ_n his_o sake_n amen_n o_o god_n for_o as_o much_o as_o without_o thou_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o please_v thou_o merciful_o grant_v that_o thy_o holy_a spirit_n may_v in_o all_o thing_n direct_v and_o rule_v our_o heart_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o o_o almighty_a god_n who_o be_v a_o strong_a tower_n of_o defence_n unto_o thy_o servant_n against_o the_o face_n of_o their_o enemy_n we_o yield_v thou_o praise_n and_o thanksgiving_n for_o our_o deliverance_n from_o those_o great_a and_o apparent_a danger_n wherewith_o we_o have_v be_v compass_v we_o acknowledge_v it_o thy_o goodness_n that_o we_o be_v not_o deliver_v over_o as_o a_o pray_v unto_o they_o beseech_v thou_o still_o to_o continue_v such_o thy_o mercy_n towards_o we_o to_o discover_v all_o hellish_a plot_n contrive_v against_o our_o king_n religion_n and_o country_n and_o to_o disappoint_v all_o the_o black_a design_n of_o our_o bloody_a enemy_n that_o all_o the_o world_n may_v know_v that_o thou_o be_v our_o saviour_n and_o mighty_a deliverer_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o o_o lord_n our_o god_n who_o upholde_v and_o govern_v all_o thing_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n receive_v our_o humble_a prayer_n for_o our_o sovereign_a lord_n and_o lady_n the_o king_n and_o queen_n set_v over_o we_o by_o thy_o grace_n and_o providence_n and_o so_o together_o with_o they_o bless_v the_o whole_a royal_a family_n with_o the_o dew_n of_o thy_o heavenly_a spirit_n that_o they_o ever_o trust_v in_o thy_o goodness_n protect_v by_o thy_o power_n and_o crown_v with_o thy_o gracious_a and_o endless_a favour_n may_v continue_v before_o thou_o in_o health_n peace_n joy_n and_o honour_n a_o long_a and_o happy_a life_n upon_o earth_n and_o after_o death_n obtain_v everlasting_a life_n and_o glory_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n by_o the_o merit_n and_o mediation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n our_o saviour_n amen_n bless_v we_o beseech_v thou_o o_o lord_n our_o bishop_n priest_n and_o deacon_n with_o true_a knowledge_n and_o understanding_n of_o thy_o word_n and_o that_o both_o by_o their_o preach_a and_o live_v they_o may_v set_v it_o forth_o and_o show_v it_o according_o enable_v they_o all_o to_o be_v faithful_a in_o their_o great_a trust_n in_o the_o maintetenance_n of_o thy_o true_a religion_n against_o the_o incroaching_n of_o popery_n heresy_n schism_n and_o profaneness_n bless_v the_o lord_n of_o the_o council_n and_o all_o the_o nobility_n magistrate_n and_o gentry_n with_o grace_n wisdom_n and_o understanding_n of_o thy_o will_n and_o word_n give_v to_o all_o nation_n quietness_n and_o peace_n and_o to_o this_o thy_o people_n give_v unity_n and_o happiness_n help_v the_o weak-hearted_a raise_v up_o they_o that_o fall_v subdue_v satan_n under_o our_o foot_n comfort_v all_o that_o be_v in_o tribulation_n preserve_v all_o that_o be_v in_o danger_n show_v thy_o pity_n to_o prisoner_n and_o captive_n provide_v for_o the_o fatherless_a the_o widow_n and_o all_o that_o be_v oppress_v have_v mercy_n upon_o all_o men._n forgive_v our_o enemy_n and_o turn_v their_o heart_n preserve_v for_o our_o use_n the_o kindly_a fruit_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o endue_v we_o with_o the_o grace_n of_o thy_o holy_a spirit_n and_o amend_v our_o life_n according_a to_o thy_o holy_a word_n all_o this_o we_o beseech_v thou_o to_o grant_v we_o for_o jesus_n christ_n his_o sake_n amen_n from_o our_o enemy_n defend_v we_o o_o christ_n gracious_o look_v upon_o our_o affliction_n pitiful_o behold_v the_o sorrow_n of_o our_o heart_n merciful_o forgive_v the_o sin_n of_o thy_o people_n favourable_o with_o mercy_n hear_v our_o prayer_n o_o son_n of_o david_n have_v mercy_n upon_o we_o both_o now_o and_o ever_o vouchsafe_v to_o hear_v we_o o_o christ_n gracious_o hear_v we_o o_o christ_n gracious_o hear_v we_o o_o lord_n christ_n o_o lord_n let_v thy_o mercy_n be_v show_v upon_o we_o as_o we_o do_v put_v our_o trust_n in_o thou_o we_o humble_o beseech_v thou_o o_o father_n merciful_o to_o look_v upon_o our_o infirmity_n and_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o thy_o name_n turn_v from_o we_o all_o those_o evil_n that_o we_o most_o righteous_o have_v deserve_v and_o grant_v that_o in_o all_o our_o trouble_n we_o may_v put_v our_o whole_a trust_n and_o confidence_n in_o thy_o mercy_n and_o evermore_o serve_v thou_o in_o holiness_n and_o pureness_n of_o live_v to_o thy_o honour_n and_o glory_n through_o our_o only_a mediator_n and_o advocate_n jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o prevent_v we_o o_o lord_n in_o all_o our_o do_n with_o thy_o most_o gracious_a favour_n and_o further_o we_o with_o thy_o continual_a help_n that_o in_o all_o our_o work_n begin_v continue_v and_o end_v in_o thou_o we_o may_v glorify_v thy_o holy_a name_n and_o final_o by_o thy_o mercy_n obtain_v eversasting_a life_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o almighty_a god_n who_o have_v give_v we_o grace_n at_o this_o time_n with_o one_o accord_n to_o make_v our_o common_a supplication_n unto_o thou_o and_o do_v promise_n that_o when_o two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o thy_o name_n thou_o will_v grant_v their_o request_n fulfil_v now_o o_o lord_n the_o desire_n and_o petition_n of_o thy_o servant_n as_o may_v be_v most_o expedient_a for_o they_o grant_v we_o in_o this_o world_n knowledge_n of_o thy_o truth_n and_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v life_n everlasting_a amen_n the_o grace_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v with_o we_o all_o evermore_o amen_n a_o evening_n prayer_n for_o a_o whole_a family_n suitable_a to_o the_o time_n o_o merciful_a god_n here_o we_o thy_o unworthy_a servant_n be_v prostrate_a before_o thou_o at_o the_o close_a of_o this_o day_n load_v with_o thy_o manifold_a mercy_n to_o acknowledge_v the_o weakness_n
two_o extreme_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o pass_v from_o the_o one_o to_o the_o other_o in_o a_o moment_n or_o without_o some_o medium_n that_o be_v appoint_v to_o rid_v we_o of_o the_o indisposition_n of_o the_o one_o and_o prepare_v we_o for_o the_o acceptance_n of_o the_o other_o it_o be_v for_o that_o good_a purpose_n that_o his_o wisdom_n condescend_v to_o send_v we_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o divine_a grace_n by_o which_o our_o soul_n be_v not_o only_o cleanse_v from_o the_o filthiness_n of_o our_o sinful_a habit_n but_o also_o enable_v to_o this_o bless_a correspondency_n with_o god_n in_o prayer_n the_o fountain_n of_o all_o spiritual_a joy_n and_o comfort_n let_v not_o therefore_o any_o persuasion_n or_o discouragement_n hinder_v thou_o o_o christian_n from_o visit_v often_o thy_o god_n in_o prayer_n let_v not_o the_o sinfulness_n of_o thy_o action_n the_o viciousness_n of_o thy_o disposition_n the_o multiplicity_n of_o worldly_a business_n the_o care_n and_o trouble_v of_o the_o world_n nor_o any_o mistake_n of_o god_n or_o of_o thyself_o cause_v thou_o to_o omit_v this_o beneficial_a duty_n what_o if_o thou_o be_v sinful_a or_o natural_o indispose_v to_o so_o holy_a a_o performance_n remember_v christ_n in_o heaven_n sit_v at_o god_n right_a hand_n to_o intercede_v for_o thou_o to_o render_v thy_o prayer_n effectual_a to_o sanctify_v thy_o groan_n and_o offer_v they_o up_o to_o thy_o god_n what_o if_o thou_o make_v thy_o address_n to_o a_o glorious_a be_v of_o a_o infinite_a power_n and_o majesty_n if_o thy_o disposition_n be_v suitable_a to_o the_o duty_n thou_o may_v draw_v near_o with_o confidence_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o his_o grace_n for_o he_o be_v thy_o heavenly_a father_n he_o desire_v nothing_o more_o than_o to_o render_v thou_o happy_a and_o to_o bestow_v upon_o thou_o his_o mercy_n consider_v his_o gracious_a invitation_n and_o many_o encouragement_n in_o his_o holy_a word_n come_v unto_o i_o all_o you_o that_o travel_n and_o be_v heavy_a lade_v and_o i_o will_v refresh_v you_o matth._n 11.28_o call_v upon_o i_o in_o the_o day_n of_o trouble_n and_o i_o will_v hear_v thou_o and_o thou_o shall_v glorify_v i_o psal_n 50.15_o the_o lord_n be_v good_a and_o ready_a to_o forgive_v and_o plenteous_a in_o mercy_n unto_o all_o they_o that_o call_v upon_o he_o psal_n 36.5_o before_o we_o call_v he_o will_v answer_v and_o while_o we_o be_v yet_o speak_v he_o will_v hear_v isaiah_n 65.24_o to_o all_o that_o turn_v to_o he_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a and_o merciful_a slow_a to_o anger_n and_o of_o great_a kindness_n joel_n 2.13_o he_o will_v not_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n nor_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n matth._n 12.20_o shall_v his_o mercy_n be_v so_o ready_a to_o receive_v thou_o and_o will_v thou_o be_v so_o unworthy_a to_o draw_v back_o shall_v his_o goodness_n long_o to_o bestow_v upon_o thou_o what_o thou_o want_v and_o will_v thou_o be_v so_o unreasonable_a to_o contemn_v it_o shall_v his_o love_n desire_n to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o thou_o by_o thy_o frequent_a address_n and_o will_v thou_o be_v so_o ungrateful_a to_o slight_v his_o offer_a kindness_n take_v notice_n of_o the_o just_a punishment_n of_o those_o ungracious_a soul_n who_o his_o wisdom_n invite_v in_o vain_a to_o herself_o because_o i_o have_v call_v and_o you_o refuse_v i_o have_v stretch_v out_o my_o hand_n and_o no_o man_n regard_v but_o you_o have_v set_v at_o naught_o all_o my_o counsel_n and_o will_v none_o of_o my_o reproof_n i_o also_o will_v laugh_v at_o your_o calamity_n i_o will_v mock_v when_o your_o fear_n come_v then_o shall_v they_o call_v upon_o i_o but_o i_o will_v not_o answer_v they_o shall_v seek_v i_o early_o but_o they_o shall_v not_o find_v i_o etc._n etc._n prov._n 1.25_o 26.28_o adversity_n may_v have_v that_o power_n to_o awaken_v many_o who_o in_o prosperity_n from_o one_o year_n to_o another_o scarce_o think_v of_o pray_v to_o their_o god_n but_o what_o can_v such_o expect_v in_o reason_n from_o his_o bounty_n which_o they_o in_o their_o flourish_a estate_n despise_v or_o neglect_v those_o service_n can_v never_o be_v think_v real_a and_o sincere_a unto_o which_o necessity_n drive_v man_n and_o those_o person_n that_o make_v a_o mock_n of_o this_o duty_n at_o any_o time_n can_v probable_o receive_v from_o it_o in_o their_o great_a urgency_n the_o benefit_n they_o expect_v it_o be_v therefore_o wisdom_n constant_o to_o practice_n that_o which_o may_v stand_v we_o in_o good_a stead_n and_o without_o which_o we_o shall_v assure_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n prayer_n may_v help_v and_o comfort_v thou_o o_o man_n when_o all_o other_o help_v and_o comfort_n forsake_v thou_o when_o thy_o riches_n and_o thy_o guard_n thy_o treasure_n and_o thy_o friend_n thy_o power_n and_o thy_o glory_n shall_v leave_v thou_o to_o be_v torment_v with_o the_o pang_n of_o a_o disease_n or_o suffer_v thou_o to_o pass_v alone_o and_o naked_a through_o the_o dark_a and_o mournful_a vale_n of_o death_n in_o a_o word_n when_o all_o the_o world_n can_v yield_v thou_o no_o assistance_n prayer_n alone_o may_v assist_v and_o relieve_v thou_o i_o can_v prescribe_v to_o any_o person_n the_o time_n and_o moment_n for_o every_o one_o to_o make_v his_o address_n to_o his_o god_n there_o be_v no_o hour_n of_o the_o day_n nor_o night_n but_o the_o divine_a goodness_n be_v ready_a to_o receive_v the_o humble_a application_n of_o a_o dutiful_a supplicant_n no_o wonder_n therefore_o that_o st._n paul_n advise_v we_o to_o pray_v without_o cease_v which_o word_n we_o must_v not_o so_o understand_v as_o to_o spend_v all_o our_o time_n in_o this_o duty_n leave_v all_o other_o necessary_a employment_n of_o life_n as_o the_o ancient_a lazy_a heretic_n surname_v by_o the_o father_n euthick_n teach_v by_o their_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n but_o this_o command_n may_v admit_v of_o a_o threefold_a interpretation_n equal_o necessary_a for_o the_o observance_n of_o a_o christian_n first_o we_o may_v go_v far_o to_o the_o complete_n of_o the_o apostle_n counsel_n by_o send_v up_o unto_o god_n without_o intermission_n our_o hearty_a desire_n our_o sigh_n and_o groan_n when_o we_o be_v busy_a in_o our_o daily_a work_n to_o implore_v his_o needful_a assistance_n and_o protection_n the_o constant_a business_n of_o this_o life_n shall_v not_o hinder_v thou_o from_o this_o preparation_n for_o the_o next_o nor_o the_o encumbrance_n of_o the_o world_n clog_v thy_o soul_n from_o this_o elevation_n to_o its_o god_n with_o who_o a_o uninterrupted_a correspondence_n will_v wonderful_o advance_v our_o present_a affair_n as_o well_o as_o dispose_v thou_o o_o man_n for_o a_o more_o bless_a estate_n second_o in_o imitation_n of_o david_n of_o daniel_n and_o of_o other_o religious_a man_n mention_v in_o holy_a writ_n we_o may_v pray_v always_o by_o a_o constant_a performance_n of_o prayer_n at_o those_o time_n that_o chief_o require_v a_o divine_a assistance_n and_o a_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n continual_a mercy_n evening_n morning_n and_o at_o noon_n will_v i_o pray_v and_o cry_v aloud_o and_o he_o shall_v hear_v my_o voice_n say_v david_n psal_n 55.17_o and_o daniel_n can_v not_o be_v fright_v with_o the_o sear_n of_o the_o lion_n fury_n from_o pray_v three_o time_n a_o day_n to_o his_o god_n in_o the_o morning_n when_o our_o eye_n be_v open_a again_o to_o behold_v the_o wonderful_a work_n of_o god_n power_n and_o wisdom_n in_o the_o creation_n and_o preservation_n of_o the_o world_n it_o concern_v we_o to_o praise_v his_o divine_a attribute_n that_o shine_v as_o bright_a as_o the_o sun_n over_o our_o head_n when_o we_o receive_v a_o fresh_a expression_n of_o god_n goodness_n in_o keep_v we_o safe_a from_o the_o danger_n of_o the_o precede_a night_n in_o add_v another_o day_n to_o our_o life_n and_o a_o continuance_n of_o all_o his_o temporal_a favour_n do_v not_o justice_n and_o reason_n call_v upon_o we_o to_o be_v as_o mindful_a of_o god_n bounty_n as_o he_o be_v of_o our_o necessity_n and_o to_o be_v as_o liberal_a of_o our_o thanks_o as_o he_o be_v of_o his_o riches_n when_o in_o the_o morning_n thou_o be_v go_v about_o thy_o employment_n and_o consider_v that_o all_o thy_o labour_n will_v be_v to_o little_a purpose_n without_o god_n blessing_n that_o thou_o be_v go_v through_o a_o world_n of_o danger_n spiritual_a and_o temporal_a a_o world_n of_o enemy_n subtle_a malicious_a and_o powerful_a that_o besiege_v thou_o on_o all_o side_n â—s_v it_o not_o thy_o interest_n to_o beg_v the_o favour_n and_o protection_n of_o that_o good_a creator_n that_o thy_o soul_n and_o thy_o body_n may_v be_v preserve_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o their_o envious_a attempt_n that_o thy_o design_n and_o undertake_n may_v be_v successful_a thy_o labour_n fruitful_a and_o all_o thy_o proceed_n prosperous_a at_o noon_n when_o thou_o
shall_v cause_v we_o to_o set_v aside_o all_o other_o consideration_n now_o in_o this_o case_n of_o prayer_n here_o be_v considerable_a nay_o assure_v and_o unspeakable_a benefit_n mention_v before_o arise_v from_o thence_o to_o our_o body_n and_o our_o soul_n the_o prosperity_n the_o health_n the_o riches_n the_o honour_n blessing_n and_o the_o very_a breath_n of_o the_o former_a with_o all_o other_o temporal_a thing_n relate_v to_o its_o good_a be_v in_o the_o hand_n and_o at_o the_o disposal_n of_o our_o god_n they_o proceed_v from_o his_o bounty_n and_o be_v common_o obtain_v by_o our_o zealous_a prayer_n for_o god_n a_o unchangeable_a truth_n have_v promise_v in_o his_o holy_a word_n to_o have_v a_o special_a regard_n to_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o destitute_a to_o hear_v the_o groan_a of_o the_o prisoner_n to_o loose_v they_o that_o be_v appoint_v to_o death_n that_o he_o will_v cause_v he_o that_o ask_v to_o receive_v he_o that_o seek_v from_o he_o his_o necessity_n shall_v find_v they_o in_o due_a time_n that_o he_o will_v grant_v whatsoever_o we_o ask_v in_o christ_n name_n that_o he_o will_v hear_v the_o prayer_n of_o all_o flesh_n and_o perform_v their_o desire_n that_o he_o will_v open_v the_o treasury_n of_o his_o mercy_n to_o such_o as_o call_v upon_o his_o name_n and_o grant_v they_o their_o request_n in_o a_o word_n god_n promise_v that_o he_o will_v free_o bestow_v upon_o we_o all_o those_o earthly_a advantage_n which_o man_n so_o high_o esteem_v and_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o in_o consideration_n of_o our_o devout_a and_o constant_a prayer_n together_o with_o the_o more_o last_a and_o more_o excellent_a riches_n of_o the_o soul_n psalm_n 102.17_o luke_n 11.9_o john_n 14.13_o psal_n 65.2_o jer._n 29.12_o and_o jer._n 33.3_o zech._n 13.9_o if_o some_o profane_a varlet_n that_o contemn_v god_n and_o religion_n and_o neglect_v this_o duty_n nevertheless_o seem_v to_o be_v so_o happy_a as_o to_o be_v load_v with_o these_o temporal_a blessing_n they_o enjoy_v they_o not_o with_o that_o deliciousness_n and_o content_a as_o a_o pray_a soul_n that_o which_o to_o the_o latter_a be_v a_o real_a benefit_n prove_v a_o present_a curse_n to_o the_o former_a and_o a_o aggravation_n and_o the_o fuel_n of_o their_o vice_n neither_o can_v they_o find_v that_o sweetness_n in_o good_a which_o natural_o it_o yield_v and_o a_o good_a christian_a taste_n partly_o because_o the_o fear_n and_o apprehensiens_n which_o common_o attend_v upon_o a_o disorderly_a behaviour_n with_o the_o gripe_n of_o a_o awaken_v conscience_n sour_a and_o poison_n all_o the_o mercy_n of_o heaven_n and_o partly_o because_o the_o secret_a curse_n that_o accompany_v the_o wicked_a in_o the_o neglect_n of_o their_o duty_n to_o god_n change_v the_o very_a nature_n of_o the_o great_a blessing_n let_v therefore_o the_o care_n diligence_n and_o frugality_n of_o our_o forefather_n make_v never_o so_o much_o provision_n for_o we_o let_v god_n providence_n put_v into_o our_o hand_n a_o plentiful_a estate_n honour_n power_n and_o authority_n as_o soon_o as_o we_o be_v bear_v prayer_n be_v as_o needful_a in_o such_o a_o condition_n as_o if_o we_o be_v daily_o to_o expect_v the_o continual_a supply_n of_o god_n bounty_n to_o entertain_v our_o being_n as_o if_o we_o have_v no_o such_o assurance_n of_o a_o livelihood_n in_o the_o world_n humane_a greatness_n if_o not_o support_v and_o animate_v by_o goodness_n and_o piety_n be_v like_o those_o unwieldy_a body_n the_o soon_o bring_v to_o ruin_v for_o want_n of_o vital_a spirit_n require_v to_o keep_v they_o in_o motion_n and_o preserve_v they_o from_o the_o encroaching_n of_o the_o disease_n unto_o which_o their_o grossness_n and_o fatness_n be_v inclinable_a worldly_n promotion_n can_v never_o be_v well_o maintain_v and_o continue_v but_o by_o that_o providence_n from_o whence_o it_o first_o proceed_v reason_n as_o well_o as_o religion_n oblige_v we_o to_o seek_v from_o god_n mercy_n the_o preservation_n of_o those_o store_n of_o good_a thing_n which_o he_o have_v bountiful_o bestow_v upon_o we_o see_v that_o without_o it_o they_o must_v needs_o decay_v and_o shrink_v away_o to_o nothing_o think_v not_o thyself_o o_o man_n less_o indebt_v to_o thy_o god_n because_o he_o have_v give_v thou_o by_o whole_a sale_n all_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o earth_n which_o he_o distribute_v to_o other_o but_o by_o retail_n and_o that_o therefore_o thou_o depende_v not_o so_o much_o upon_o his_o power_n and_o need_v not_o so_o much_o his_o continual_a assistance_n as_o other_o of_o the_o low_a rank_n of_o men._n soon_o may_v the_o moon_n and_o glitter_a star_n yield_v their_o light_n and_o comfortable_a influence_n without_o the_o aspect_n of_o the_o sun_n soon_o may_v the_o earth_n bring_v forth_o its_o variety_n of_o creature_n without_o the_o celestial_a globe_n than_o that_o man_n though_o never_o so_o rich_a and_o powerful_a shall_v subsist_v without_o his_o god_n when_o therefore_o solomon_n the_o wise_a of_o all_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n build_v the_o famous_a temple_n of_o jerusalem_n he_o place_v the_o king_n bedchamber_n near_o to_o god_n sanctuary_n and_o cause_v a_o door_n to_o lead_v into_o it_o whereof_o the_o key_n be_v transmit_v with_o the_o crown_n and_o sceptre_n of_o israel_n and_o always_o in_o the_o king_n possession_n that_o this_o may_v mind_v he_o of_o his_o dependency_n upon_o his_o god_n and_o to_o seek_v from_o he_o those_o blessing_n and_o the_o protection_n that_o he_o continual_o want_v in_o that_o lofty_a station_n of_o honour_n if_o therefore_o our_o subsistance_n the_o preservation_n of_o our_o estate_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o power_n and_o the_o continual_a assistance_n of_o our_o god_n needful_a in_o the_o great_a abundance_n proceed_v from_o his_o bountiful_a hand_n and_o be_v obtainable_a by_o and_o promise_v to_o our_o prayer_n shall_v not_o this_o oblige_v we_o to_o draw_v near_o with_o humility_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n grace_n to_o offer_v up_o this_o cheap_a sacrifice_n always_o ready_a and_o at_o hand_n so_o acceptable_a to_o our_o good_a god_n i_o confess_v he_o be_v acquaint_v with_o our_o indigency_n and_o his_o infinite_a knowledge_n need_v not_o be_v inform_v of_o the_o thing_n that_o we_o want_v in_o the_o world_n for_o he_o know_v our_o necessity_n before_o we_o ask_v and_o our_o ignorance_n in_o ask_v he_o understand_v our_o most_o bosom_n thought_n he_o see_v and_o foresee_v what_o be_v most_o useful_a both_o for_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n though_o this_o consideration_n may_v seem_v to_o render_v our_o prayer_n frivolous_a and_o not_o so_o needful_a as_o if_o god_n be_v ignorant_a of_o our_o want_n yet_o christ_n and_o his_o holy_a apostle_n require_v and_o advise_v we_o both_o by_o their_o example_n and_o command_n to_o lay_v open_a our_o necessity_n in_o prayer_n to_o our_o gracious_a god_n and_o nature_n itself_o call_v upon_o we_o to_o seek_v from_o he_o a_o supply_n to_o our_o daily_a want_n for_o we_o must_v not_o look_v upon_o prayer_n as_o a_o simple_a information_n of_o our_o desire_n and_o estate_n but_o as_o a_o open_a acknowledgement_n of_o god_n liberality_n and_o riches_n not_o as_o a_o increase_n to_o his_o knowledge_n which_o be_v in_o itself_o infinite_a and_o can_v admit_v no_o augmentation_n but_o as_o a_o mean_v appoint_v by_o his_o wisdom_n to_o increase_v and_o augment_v our_o happiness_n neither_o must_v we_o look_v upon_o prayer_n as_o a_o obligation_n lay_v upon_o god_n to_o commiserate_v our_o poor_a condition_n but_o as_o a_o nâ—â—hod_n to_o dispose_v and_o render_v we_o fit_a to_o receive_v the_o mercy_n of_o heaven_n and_o as_o that_o unto_o which_o god_n promise_n of_o earthly_a and_o spiritual_a blessing_n be_v annex_v which_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n have_v so_o much_o the_o more_o cause_n to_o encourage_v and_o we_o sinful_a man_n to_o practice_n because_o it_o be_v the_o most_o agreeable_a to_o god_n magnificence_n and_o unlimited_a bounty_n and_o to_o man_n weakness_n and_o poverty_n because_o it_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a armour_n to_o strengthen_v we_o against_o the_o assault_n of_o worldly_a casualty_n the_o safe_a shelter_n where_o we_o may_v retreat_v when_o pursue_v by_o storm_n and_o tempest_n the_o best_a pourveyor_n to_o procure_v we_o all_o thing_n needful_a for_o our_o maintenance_n and_o being_n and_o because_o it_o be_v the_o ready_a mean_n to_o entertain_v and_o increase_v that_o familiarity_n with_o our_o god_n which_o must_v of_o necessity_n precede_v that_o eternal_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o which_o we_o shall_v enjoy_v in_o the_o estate_n of_o glory_n god_n will_v have_v we_o draw_v near_o to_o he_o by_o degree_n and_o not_o leap_v from_o our_o vile_a fellowship_n with_o sin_n and_o the_o world_n into_o a_o immediate_a fruition_n of_o his_o unspeakable_a bliss_n as_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a distance_n between_o these_o
humility_n the_o exact_a care_n the_o most_o fervent_a zeal_n and_o earnestness_n that_o thou_o be_v capable_a of_o god_n be_v not_o to_o be_v court_v with_o ordinary_a devotion_n his_o blessing_n be_v not_o to_o be_v obtain_v by_o a_o slothful_a hand_n and_o a_o negligent_a soul_n the_o distance_n betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o vile_a man_n shall_v be_v express_v by_o the_o humility_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n and_o our_o prayer_n offer_v to_o so_o excellent_a a_o majesty_n must_v have_v a_o excellency_n to_o recommend_v they_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o his_o grace_n for_o that_o purpose_n we_o must_v take_v notice_n of_o and_o observe_v these_o follow_a direction_n in_o all_o our_o address_n to_o god_n first_o let_v a_o short_a meditation_n upon_o god_n his_o power_n glory_n sufficiency_n infinite_a presence_n goodness_n knowledge_n and_o riches_n precede_v your_o prayer_n with_o some_o reflection_n upon_o yourselves_o your_o sinfulness_n vileness_n and_o the_o former_a experience_n of_o god_n goodness_n that_o such_o consideration_n as_o these_o may_v cause_v you_o to_o shake_v off_o all_o negligence_n and_o sloathfulness_n and_o help_v to_o banish_v from_o your_o soul_n all_o undecency_n carelessness_n and_o misapprehension_n usual_o find_v in_o the_o devout_a person_n we_o be_v natural_o too_o much_o unmindful_a of_o the_o respect_n that_o we_o owe_v to_o our_o god_n too_o careless_a in_o the_o performance_n of_o our_o duty_n too_o fond_a of_o the_o world_n and_o its_o vanity_n therefore_o this_o meditation_n must_v stir_v we_o up_o and_o pre-dispose_a we_o for_o this_o holy_a conference_n with_o our_o maker_n it_o must_v withdraw_v all_o our_o mind_n from_o all_o other_o intangle_a thought_n that_o we_o may_v with_o more_o liberty_n set_v ourselves_o entire_o apart_o for_o this_o important_a duty_n we_o must_v rid_v ourselves_o of_o those_o thing_n that_o common_o entangle_v we_o when_o we_o present_v ourselves_o before_o our_o god_n and_o draw_v near_o to_o he_o with_o such_o thought_n as_o these_o ay_o poor_a wretched_a and_o weak_a man_n dust_n and_o ash_n be_o go_v to_o speak_v to_o and_o petition_v a_o god_n the_o creator_n of_o the_o world_n a_o holy_a and_o divine_a majesty_n a_o incomprehensible_a spirit_n which_o sill_n heaven_n and_o earth_n with_o his_o infinite_a presence_n he_o be_v at_o my_o elbow_n and_o take_v notice_n of_o my_o behaviour_n in_o my_o soul_n and_o observe_v all_o the_o wander_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o every_o corner_n of_o this_o wide_a world_n and_o see_v and_o hear_v our_o want_n and_o necessity_n how_o careful_a must_v i_o be_v to_o appear_v with_o respect_n before_o he_o he_o be_v holy_a and_o abhor_v all_o filthiness_n i_o must_v therefore_o banish_v all_o silthy_a pollute_a and_o idle_a imagination_n at_o this_o moment_n he_o be_v as_o just_a as_o he_o be_v good_a ready_a to_o punish_v irreverence_n but_o much_o more_o inclinable_a to_o reward_v humility_n and_o devotion_n how_o devout_a therefore_o shall_v my_o soul_n be_v in_o his_o presence_n how_o circumspect_a and_o humble_a before_o he_o who_o be_v a_o all-seeing_a majesty_n and_o a_o consume_a fire_n the_o indiscreet_a devotion_n of_o the_o son_n of_o aaron_n cause_v the_o fire_n from_o the_o lord_n to_o fall_v upon_o and_o consume_v they_o vzzah_n unseasonable_a officiousness_n and_o the_o impudence_n of_o the_o man_n of_o bethshemesh_n in_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n without_o respect_n be_v severe_o punish_v and_o shall_v i_o presume_v to_o draw_v near_o to_o my_o god_n with_o carelessness_n and_o indiscretion_n shall_v i_o escape_v if_o i_o venture_v before_o he_o without_o due_a consideration_n shall_v i_o expect_v any_o gracious_a return_n of_o those_o prayer_n that_o be_v offer_v up_o with_o so_o little_a grace_n and_o dread_n of_o god_n power_n with_o so_o little_a sense_n of_o his_o glory_n and_o majesty_n o_o let_v my_o soul_n be_v sill_v with_o the_o fear_n and_o reverence_n of_o so_o fearful_a and_o holy_a a_o be_v let_v my_o mind_n be_v season_v with_o such_o a_o dread_n of_o he_o that_o may_v not_o fright_v i_o from_o he_o but_o rather_o oblige_v i_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o he_o with_o more_o devotion_n and_o humility_n if_o we_o entertain_v such_o thought_n as_o these_o they_o will_v cleanse_v our_o soul_n from_o all_o that_o sapersluity_n which_o will_v otherwise_o disgrace_v and_o spoil_v all_o our_o holy_a performance_n a_o little_a pause_n therefore_o before_o prayer_n be_v needful_a for_o this_o purpose_n however_o it_o be_v a_o act_n of_o wisdom_n in_o so_o weighty_a a_o business_n to_o proceed_v on_o with_o caution_n and_o wariness_n and_o this_o little_a recollection_n of_o ourselves_o which_o i_o recommend_v to_o every_o devout_a soul_n before_o prayer_n chief_o before_o the_o solemn_a and_o public_a prayer_n offer_v up_o to_o god_n in_o the_o public_a congregation_n can_v but_o be_v of_o a_o great_a use_n and_o very_o instrumental_a to_o prepare_v we_o for_o that_o duty_n for_o thereby_o we_o may_v see_v what_o there_o be_v in_o we_o able_a to_o impede_fw-la u_fw-mi in_o our_o address_n to_o god_n and_o what_o be_v likely_a to_o hinder_v a_o favourable_a return_n of_o our_o petition_n beside_o it_o savour_v much_o of_o that_o respect_n that_o god_n greatness_n require_v from_o we_o together_o with_o our_o relation_n to_o he_o keep_v thy_o foot_n say_v the_o wise_a man_n when_o thou_o go_v to_o the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o be_v more_o ready_a to_o hear_v than_o to_o give_v the_o sacrifice_n of_o fool_n ecclesiast_fw-la 5.1_o that_o be_v when_o thou_o go_v to_o appear_v before_o god_n majesty_n keep_v thyself_o with_o watchfulness_n and_o circumspection_n and_o understand_v thyself_o thy_o disposition_n and_o what_o thou_o be_v and_o what_o thou_o do_v that_o this_o sacred_a frankincense_n of_o prayer_n may_v be_v present_v to_o god_n with_o the_o ingredient_n necessary_a and_o from_o a._n soul_n right_o qualify_v second_o for_o that_o purpose_n you_o must_v never_o come_v to_o god_n with_o any_o know_a sin_n unrepented_a of_o that_o be_v with_o any_o sin_n near_o and_o dear_a unto_o our_o soul_n which_o we_o entertain_v with_o a_o resolution_n never_o or_o not_o yet_o to_o part_v with_o for_o not_o only_o the_o sacred_a word_n of_o god_n assure_v we_o that_o god_n hear_v not_o sinner_n john_n 9.31_o but_o reason_n also_o teach_v we_o that_o it_o consist_v not_o with_o his_o wisdom_n to_o listen_v to_o the_o prayer_n of_o such_o as_o will_v not_o hearken_v to_o his_o command_n to_o bestow_v his_o blessing_n and_o mercy_n upon_o such_o unworthy_a soul_n as_o will_v not_o leave_v a_o sin_n for_o his_o sake_n or_o as_o prefer_v the_o filthy_a pleasure_n of_o the_o flesh_n to_o the_o sincere_a joy_n of_o god_n savour_n and_o the_o real_a advantage_n which_o slow_a from_o thence_o in_o abundance_n therefore_o by_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o prophet_n isaiah_n he_o speak_v thus_o to_o the_o jew_n and_o to_o all_o impenitent_a sinner_n when_o you_o spread_v forth_o your_o hand_n i_o will_v hide_v my_o eye_n from_o you_o when_o you_o make_v many_o prayer_n i_o will_v not_o hear_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o severity_n be_v discover_v in_o the_o next_o word_n because_o your_o hand_n be_v full_a of_o blood_n all_o other_o sin_n as_o well_o as_o blood_n guiltiness_n be_v wont_a to_o divert_v god_n mercy_n from_o we_o and_o withdraw_v those_o good_a thing_n which_o otherwise_o we_o may_v enjoy_v our_o prayer_n in_o such_o a_o case_n without_o this_o due_a preparation_n savour_v of_o the_o great_a impudence_n and_o atheistical_a boldness_n because_o we_o attempt_v the_o obtain_n of_o god_n riches_n and_o favour_n to_o our_o unworthy_a being_n and_o present_a before_o his_o all-seeing_a eye_n body_n distemper_v with_o vice_n hand_n full_a of_o sin_n eye_n swell_v with_o pride_n or_o bear_v the_o mark_n of_o contempt_n of_o his_o divine_a majesty_n and_o a_o soul_n that_o will_v never_o regard_v he_o be_v it_o not_o for_o our_o want_n and_o god_n riches_n the_o prayer_n of_o such_o a_o person_n will_v prevail_v no_o more_o upon_o god_n than_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o corah_n and_o his_o confederate_n for_o he_o accept_v not_o the_o offering_n present_v by_o foul_a hand_n purity_n and_o innocency_n be_v require_v in_o such_o as_o come_v before_o god_n and_o though_o none_o of_o we_o can_v pretend_v to_o a_o absolute_a freedom_n from_o sin_n and_o from_o those_o wicked_a propensity_n to_o vice_n which_o render_v our_o prayer_n ineffectual_a yet_o every_o one_o of_o we_o may_v cleanse_v ourselves_o from_o all_o actual_a transgression_n by_o repentance_n and_o make_v some_o amends_o by_o a_o repeat_v resolution_n against_o our_o belove_a sin_n and_o by_o a_o inward_a and_o hearty_a sorrow_n before_o we_o appear_v in_o god_n presence_n for_o our_o past_a miscarriage_n for_o unless_o we_o appear_v in_o that_o temper_n our_o most_o just_a and_o
seven_o faith_n must_v likewise_o be_v a_o ingredient_n in_o this_o part_n of_o god_n worship_n as_o well_o as_o in_o the_o rest_n this_o grace_n be_v the_o life_n and_o soul_n of_o devotion_n without_o which_o all_o our_o address_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n for_o he_o that_o come_v unto_o god_n must_v believe_v that_o he_o be_v and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o now_o there_o be_v a_o double_a duty_n that_o our_o faith_n be_v bind_v to_o perform_v in_o prayer_n first_o it_o must_v make_v we_o sensible_a of_o god_n presence_n and_o all-seeing_a eye_n it_o must_v cast_v the_o soul_n into_o a_o dread_n of_o that_o divine_a majesty_n who_o hear_v and_o see_v every_o petitioner_n all_o over_o the_o world_n it_o must_v awaken_v all_o our_o ability_n and_o quicken_v we_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n glorious_a be_v unto_o who_o we_o offer_v up_o our_o request_n it_o must_v represent_v he_o present_a and_o as_o he_o be_v a_o god_n a_o just_a a_o powerful_a and_o a_o merciful_a creator_n to_o our_o imagination_n but_o let_v the_o good_a christian_a take_v heed_n that_o he_o suffer_v not_o his_o fancy_n to_o give_v any_o visible_a shape_n to_o god_n incomprehensible_a be_v our_o mind_n be_v too_o apt_a to_o be_v extravagant_a in_o this_o case_n and_o to_o commit_v that_o spiritual_a idolatry_n which_o the_o heathen_n be_v outward_o guilty_a of_o this_o infinite_a spirit_n be_v to_o be_v represent_v inward_o to_o soul_n without_o any_o such_o contemptible_a appearance_n unto_o which_o our_o imagination_n instruct_v by_o our_o sense_n be_v wont_a to_o confine_v he_o his_o incomprehensible_a be_v must_v not_o be_v disgrace_v by_o our_o weak_a and_o shallow_a apprehension_n therefore_o in_o all_o our_o address_n to_o he_o our_o busy_a imagination_n ought_v to_o be_v entertain_v with_o the_o thought_n of_o the_o thing_n we_o want_v and_o desire_v from_o god_n and_o our_o mind_n stop_v with_o the_o notion_n of_o his_o immensity_n and_o our_o belief_n ought_v to_o make_v we_o as_o sensible_a of_o his_o presence_n as_o if_o he_o be_v visible_a before_o our_o eye_n this_o will_v banish_v all_o careless_a idle_a and_o wander_a thought_n and_o negligence_n and_o quicken_v we_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o important_a duty_n the_o sense_n of_o god_n presence_n will_v cause_v we_o to_o summon_v all_o our_o ability_n and_o rid_v we_o of_o all_o those_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v a_o impediment_n to_o our_o prayer_n and_o for_o want_v of_o it_o man_n be_v common_o slothful_a and_o careless_a in_o their_o address_n to_o god_n divine_a majesty_n but_o there_o be_v another_o duty_n that_o our_o faith_n must_v perform_v in_o prayer_n that_o be_v it_o must_v keep_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o expectation_n of_o the_o grant_n of_o our_o request_n and_o assure_v we_o that_o god_n be_v both_o willing_a and_o able_a to_o fulfil_v our_o desire_n in_o his_o due_a time_n that_o he_o have_v goodness_n and_o power_n enough_o in_o store_n to_o reward_v we_o and_o satisfy_v all_o our_o wish_n nay_o that_o he_o will_v give_v we_o the_o good_a thing_n that_o we_o petition_n for_o if_o they_o be_v convenient_a for_o we_o and_o likely_a to_o be_v instrumental_a in_o the_o promotion_n of_o his_o glory_n on_o earth_n for_o that_o purpose_n christ_n have_v encourage_v we_o with_o this_o promise_n math_n 21.22_o all_o thing_n whatsoever_o you_o shall_v ask_v in_o prayer_n believe_v you_o shall_v receive_v and_o elsewhere_o he_o call_v upon_o the_o slothful_a to_o ask_v and_o assure_v they_o math._n 7.7_o that_o they_o shall_v have_v seek_v and_o you_o shall_v find_v knock_v and_o it_o shall_v be_v open_v unto_o you_o and_o immediate_o before_o his_o crucifixion_n he_o reprove_v his_o disciple_n for_o their_o backwardness_n in_o prayer_n john_n 16.24_o hitherto_o have_v you_o ask_v nothing_o in_o my_o name_n ask_v and_o you_o shall_v receive_v that_o your_o joy_n may_v be_v full_a by_o these_o and_o such_o like_a promise_n christ_n offer_v we_o god_n assistance_n and_o mercy_n and_o desire_v we_o to_o send_v up_o our_o prayer_n to_o he_o with_o a_o lively_a faith_n and_o a_o strong_a persuasion_n that_o he_o will_v grant_v we_o our_o request_n or_o so_o much_o of_o they_o as_o be_v needful_a for_o we_o this_o faith_n or_o persuasion_n must_v not_o be_v ground_v upon_o such_o a_o deceitful_a foundation_n as_o our_o virtue_n good_a quality_n and_o excellency_n man_n be_v too_o apt_a to_o flatter_v themselves_o with_o such_o proud_a mistake_n and_o to_o look_v upon_o their_o person_n as_o deserve_v the_o favour_n that_o they_o petition_n for_o and_o that_o in_o consideration_n of_o their_o own_o piety_n and_o holiness_n god_n will_v infallible_o hear_v their_o prayer_n though_o our_o innocency_n may_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o draw_v the_o blessing_n of_o heaven_n upon_o our_o head_n it_o become_v not_o our_o christian_a humility_n to_o rely_v upon_o our_o merit_n and_o claim_v god_n mercy_n as_o due_a for_o our_o service_n if_o god_n be_v a_o debtor_n to_o we_o it_o be_v in_o regard_n of_o his_o promise_n and_o not_o of_o our_o deserve_n which_o can_v be_v in_o any_o wise_a proportionable_a to_o his_o blessing_n god_n may_v reward_v our_o piety_n with_o the_o good_a thing_n of_o this_o life_n and_o with_o a_o prosperous_a success_n in_o all_o our_o undertake_n according_a to_o our_o desire_n he_o may_v vouchsafe_v his_o mercy_n to_o his_o faithful_a servant_n as_o well_o as_o keep_v they_o from_o the_o smart_n and_o fury_n of_o his_o judgement_n and_o that_o because_o of_o their_o virtue_n and_o abstinence_n from_o the_o public_a sin_n but_o it_o become_v not_o the_o humility_n of_o a_o beggar_n when_o he_o come_v to_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n undeserved_a grace_n either_o to_o expect_v or_o claim_v more_o gracious_a return_n because_o of_o our_o former_a service_n due_a to_o his_o sovereignty_n over_o we_o beside_o man_n be_v common_o mistake_v and_o we_o be_v apt_a to_o think_v too_o well_o of_o ourselves_o but_o though_o our_o virtue_n shall_v be_v never_o so_o heroic_a and_o our_o life_n never_o so_o exemplary_a i_o will_v not_o advise_v any_o petitioner_n to_o settle_v thereupon_o his_o faith_n and_o confidence_n of_o acceptance_n of_o and_o success_n to_o his_o prayer_n because_o that_o persuasion_n claim_v god_n mercy_n as_o debt_n and_o deserve_v as_o severe_a a_o repulse_n as_o that_o boast_a pharisee_n in_o the_o gospel_n who_o prayer_n be_v but_o a_o provocation_n of_o god_n displeasure_n against_o he_o whereas_o the_o publican_n humility_n obtain_v a_o gracious_a forgiveness_n selfconceitedness_a in_o prayer_n be_v the_o worst_a disposition_n that_o we_o can_v bring_v and_o discover_v in_o our_o address_n to_o he_o who_o know_v the_o very_a bottom_n of_o our_o soul_n soon_o will_v the_o scandalous_a sinner_n who_o be_v sensible_a of_o have_v render_v himself_o unworthy_a of_o heaven_n mercy_n receive_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o tenderness_n of_o his_o fatherly_a love_n rather_o than_o a_o over-confident_a and_o a_o proud_a saint_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o upbraid_v god_n with_o his_o continual_a service_n but_o as_o our_o confidence_n in_o prayer_n must_v not_o proceed_v from_o a_o high_a opinion_n that_o we_o have_v conceive_v of_o ourselves_o of_o our_o perfection_n or_o action_n so_o it_o shall_v be_v settle_v upon_o the_o merit_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o christ_n our_o bless_a saviour_n and_o our_o real_a interest_n in_o he_o our_o faith_n and_o assurance_n of_o god_n acceptance_n must_v eye_n his_o promise_n and_o infallible_a truth_n and_o look_v upon_o the_o deserve_n of_o a_o alsufficient_a redeemer_n in_o who_o and_o by_o who_o we_o be_v welcome_a to_o a_o bountiful_a god_n it_o must_v trust_v upon_o christ_n intercession_n that_o sanctify_v our_o imperfect_a prayer_n and_o offer_v they_o up_o for_o we_o to_o our_o heavenly_a father_n let_v his_o mediation_n procure_v we_o admittance_n and_o his_o excellency_n purchase_v unto_o we_o a_o favourable_a return_n then_o only_o we_o may_v expect_v success_n when_o our_o petition_n be_v recommend_v by_o the_o merit_n of_o a_o crucify_a christ_n all_o such_o request_n as_o our_o saviour_n promise_v shall_v meet_v with_o acceptance_n if_o we_o can_v be_v persuade_v of_o a_o assure_a success_n or_o if_o we_o believe_v by_o which_o word_n he_o seem_v to_o encourage_v we_o to_o believe_v that_o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v the_o father_n in_o his_o name_n we_o shall_v obtain_v it_o experience_n teach_v we_o that_o this_o promise_n be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v in_o as_o large_a a_o sense_n as_o the_o word_n seem_v to_o intimate_v without_o any_o exception_n or_o restriction_n for_o many_o thing_n we_o may_v ask_v of_o god_n which_o become_v not_o his_o wisdom_n and_o fatherly_a care_n over_o we_o to_o grant_v and_o our_o ignorance_n be_v such_o that_o we_o may_v
have_v any_o regard_n to_o god_n our_o merciful_a creator_n i_o think_v there_o be_v no_o person_n so_o simple_a as_o to_o imagine_v that_o the_o eloquency_n of_o the_o tongue_n or_o unusual_a expression_n can_v have_v a_o great_a influence_n upon_o he_o than_o the_o common_a prayer_n of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v not_o the_o tongue_n but_o the_o heart_n that_o god_n eye_n in_o all_o our_o service_n the_o whisper_n and_o private_a complaint_n of_o the_o one_o be_v hear_v when_o the_o loud_a cry_n of_o the_o other_o be_v reject_v the_o door_n of_o mercy_n fly_v open_a at_o the_o beat_n of_o a_o devout_a heart_n when_o it_o remain_v bolt_v at_o the_o furious_a assault_n of_o the_o most_o eloquent_a tongue_n therefore_o as_o it_o shall_v be_v our_o chief_a regard_n in_o prayer_n to_o examine_v that_o which_o be_v most_o please_a to_o god_n not_o that_o which_o gratify_v our_o own_o humour_n we_o shall_v choose_v those_o prayer_n to_o offer_v up_o to_o he_o wherein_o our_o heart_n may_v be_v as_o well_o concern_v as_o our_o tongue_n in_o order_n thereunto_o as_o the_o set_a form_n of_o prayer_n be_v the_o great_a help_n that_o we_o can_v procure_v both_o to_o the_o learned_a and_o the_o unlearned_a to_o the_o wise_a and_o the_o ignorant_a i_o see_v no_o reason_n wherefore_o man_n shall_v be_v deprive_v of_o they_o and_o extemporary_a prayer_n set_v up_o those_o form_n i_o mean_v where_o thing_n be_v speak_v and_o not_o only_a word_n where_o the_o conception_n be_v plain_o express_v and_o the_o prayer_n fit_v for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o weak_a capacity_n they_o can_v never_o be_v too_o plain_a nor_o too_o easy_a and_o the_o wise_a and_o the_o learned_a ought_v not_o to_o think_v it_o a_o trouble_n to_o condescend_v in_o their_o public_a worship_n to_o request_v word_v in_o a_o manner_n answerable_a to_o the_o mean_a ability_n for_o christianity_n require_v from_o they_o a_o union_n with_o the_o weak_a of_o their_o brethren_n who_o be_v in_o as_o great_a a_o likelihood_n of_o god_n mercy_n and_o obtain_v god_n glory_n as_o person_n of_o the_o great_a reach_n and_o judgement_n i_o know_v that_o it_o be_v the_o common_a use_n of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n to_o upbraid_v we_o in_o our_o devotion_n with_o too_o much_o formality_n in_o regard_n of_o our_o be_v so_o fond_a of_o set_a form_n with_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o new_a compose_a prayer_n i_o hearty_o wish_v that_o we_o ourselves_o the_o clergy_n and_o the_o people_n do_v not_o give_v cause_n for_o this_o aspersion_n but_o that_o it_o may_v not_o deceive_v the_o ignorant_a with_o its_o first_o plausible_a appearance_n let_v i_o tell_v they_o that_o we_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o formality_n nor_o to_o be_v condemn_v for_o it_o because_o that_o we_o use_v set_v and_o prescribe_v form_n but_o because_o we_o use_v they_o not_o right_a with_o that_o devotion_n respect_n humility_n and_o inward_a affection_n as_o become_v christian_n and_o petitioner_n of_o the_o god_n of_o heaven_n because_o in_o our_o public_a service_n we_o repeat_v only_o the_o word_n and_o mind_v not_o the_o utter_v they_o with_o the_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n because_o some_o make_v it_o only_o a_o trade_n to_o go_v to_o prayer_n other_o run_v they_o over_o as_o a_o task_n and_o too_o many_o mind_n the_o form_n but_o few_o mind_n the_o substance_n of_o prayer_n that_o be_v to_o express_v and_o offer_v they_o up_o to_o god_n with_o those_o inward_a qualification_n and_o outward_a humility_n that_o i_o have_v now_o recommend_v to_o the_o practice_n of_o our_o christian_a brethren_n this_o cause_v i_o to_o pass_v to_o the_o second_o particular_a that_o i_o have_v promise_v to_o examine_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o people_n contempt_n of_o our_o liturgy_n and_o their_o neglect_n of_o the_o form_n of_o prayer_n enjoin_v in_o our_o church_n of_o england_n i_o can_v name_v a_o great_a many_o cause_n that_o we_o ourselves_o give_v but_o i_o shall_v reduce_v they_o all_o for_o brevity_n sake_n to_o these_o six_o follow_v first_o i_o must_v accuse_v the_o clergy_n both_o high_a and_o low_a great_a and_o small_a for_o have_v give_v the_o great_a cause_n of_o the_o contempt_n of_o our_o liturgy_n and_o rubric_n by_o their_o indifferent_a practice_n by_o their_o over_o hasty_a read_n of_o they_o and_o by_o their_o omission_n of_o that_o respect_n which_o they_o shall_v outward_o express_v and_o that_o devotion_n which_o be_v due_a to_o god_n they_o give_v occasion_n to_o many_o to_o slight_v the_o very_a prayer_n themselves_o as_o they_o be_v the_o people_n mouth_n to_o god_n they_o shall_v be_v the_o people_n example_n and_o pattern_n to_o show_v they_o how_o to_o beg_v god_n mercy_n as_o well_o as_o to_o endeavour_v to_o obtain_v they_o for_o their_o relief_n and_o the_o great_a care_n they_o shall_v take_v to_o observe_v all_o the_o motion_n of_o reverence_n because_o their_o practice_n have_v so_o great_a a_o influence_n upon_o the_o congregation_n and_o be_v of_o so_o great_a a_o consequence_n that_o they_o oblige_v man_n to_o esteem_v those_o prayer_n that_o be_v offer_v up_o to_o god_n for_o this_o reason_n a_o person_n that_o officiate_n in_o the_o audience_n of_o a_o congregation_n shall_v read_v over_o the_o prayer_n not_o as_o we_o peruse_v a_o story_n in_o a_o book_n but_o with_o his_o hand_n and_o eye_n lift_v up_o to_o heaven_n and_o upon_o his_o knee_n he_o ought_v to_o pronounce_v the_o prayer_n as_o if_o he_o be_v speak_v to_o god_n divine_a majesty_n visible_o present_a and_o to_o deliver_v they_o with_o the_o most_o apparent_a sign_n of_o sincerity_n of_o reverence_n and_o earnestness_n imaginable_a endeavour_v to_o grace_v the_o godly_a prayer_n of_o the_o church_n with_o thy_o graceful_a and_o comely_a delivery_n with_o thy_o decent_a and_o respectful_a posture_n and_o gesture_n and_o let_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o assembly_n learn_v from_o thou_o my_o reverend_a brother_n the_o manner_n how_o to_o pray_v as_o well_o as_o the_o word_n and_o expression_n of_o prayer_n o_o let_v not_o the_o negligence_n and_o sloathfulness_n of_o so_o many_o be_v lay_v to_o thy_o charge_n but_o strive_v to_o be_v zealous_o affect_v thyself_o that_o this_o disposition_n may_v be_v communicate_v to_o thy_o hearer_n i_o speak_v to_o you_o chief_o who_o office_n and_o happiness_n it_o be_v to_o sing_v daily_a praise_n to_o god_n in_o cathedral_n church_n think_v not_o that_o you_o have_v sufficient_o discharge_v your_o duty_n if_o you_o have_v observe_v your_o distance_n your_o tune_n and_o please_v the_o auditor_n with_o your_o melodious_a voice_n o_o remember_v my_o christian_a brother_n that_o thou_o must_v likewise_o please_v thy_o god_n with_o the_o harmony_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o tune_n as_o well_o his_o praise_n with_o the_o inward_a affection_n as_o well_o as_o with_o the_o outward_a concert_n of_o music_n take_v heed_n lest_o thy_o behaviour_n or_o thy_o negligent_a discharge_n of_o thy_o duty_n give_v scandal_n to_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n who_o be_v too_o apt_a to_o be_v offend_v at_o the_o least_o sign_n of_o weakness_n which_o thou_o may_v discover_v at_o such_o a_o time_n second_o another_o cause_n of_o the_o contempt_n of_o our_o liturgy_n give_v by_o the_o clergy_n be_v the_o negligence_n of_o the_o superior_a and_o wealthy_a clergy_n who_o seldom_o read_v the_o prayer_n of_o the_o church_n themselves_o unless_o it_o be_v some_o small_a portion_n but_o common_o employ_v their_o deacon_n or_o the_o mean_a person_n of_o the_o church_n to_o offer_v up_o those_o prayer_n that_o be_v of_o the_o great_a concernment_n to_o we_o and_o the_o chief_a of_o the_o rubric_n as_o if_o that_o office_n be_v too_o mean_a for_o their_o promotion_n and_o dignity_n whereas_o it_o be_v the_o most_o glorious_a employment_n that_o we_o man_n can_v pretend_v to_o it_o make_v we_o like_o our_o divine_a and_o great_a saviour_n who_o intercede_v for_o we_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n and_o offer_v up_o our_o request_n be_v there_o any_o that_o name_v himself_o a_o christian_n that_o scorn_v to_o imitate_v the_o author_n of_o our_o salvation_n and_o to_o offer_v up_o the_o prayer_n of_o their_o congregation_n to_o god_n no_o person_n can_v be_v too_o worthy_a for_o so_o excellent_a a_o employment_n and_o because_o the_o usual_a method_n observe_v in_o cathedral_n can_v well_o be_v change_v i_o can_v wish_v that_o the_o superior_a clergy_n the_o bishop_n the_o dean_n and_o the_o canon_n will_v sometime_o perform_v those_o part_n of_o devotion_n which_o they_o have_v total_o appropriate_v to_o the_o mean_a of_o their_o foundation_n and_o society_n that_o thereby_o they_o may_v remove_v from_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n the_o disesteem_a of_o our_o prayer_n which_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o conceive_v and_o entertain_v thereby_o for_o as_o in_o the_o day_n of_o jeroboam_n
purpose_n i_o know_v that_o several_a pious_a and_o learned_a man_n have_v late_o and_o in_o the_o former_a age_n furnish_v our_o nation_n with_o book_n of_o this_o kind_n but_o i_o think_v that_o their_o religious_a labour_n fit_v for_o those_o time_n and_o answerable_a to_o their_o private_a design_n will_v not_o hinder_v this_o present_a treatise_n from_o be_v useful_a in_o its_o kind_n for_o the_o prevention_n of_o the_o mistake_v late_o creep_v in_o among_o we_o and_o the_o mischief_n that_o be_v intend_v by_o our_o enemy_n at_o home_n and_o abroad_o i_o find_v they_o busy_o employ_v in_o contrive_v our_o ruin_n and_o in_o poison_v our_o people_n with_o strange_a principle_n by_o spread_v in_o the_o country_n new_a pamphlet_n print_v for_o that_o evil_a purpose_n i_o wish_v that_o we_o be_v as_o watchful_a for_o our_o own_o preservation_n the_o best_a mean_n for_o that_o intent_n be_v to_o employ_v the_o same_o policy_n and_o to_o furnish_v our_o people_n with_o new_a and_o fresh_a advice_n which_o may_v serve_v as_o antidote_n against_o the_o venom_n of_o their_o enemy_n and_o we_o such_o treatise_n therefore_o as_o this_o i_o think_v to_o be_v very_o seasonable_a for_o our_o divide_a time_n i_o be_o certain_a that_o it_o be_v much_o want_v in_o the_o place_n where_o i_o live_v and_o to_o the_o people_n commit_v to_o my_o charge_n my_o first_o design_n be_v only_o to_o have_v a_o regard_n to_o their_o private_a want_n at_o the_o request_n of_o one_o of_o my_o parishioner_n but_o when_o i_o consider_v that_o though_o providence_n have_v give_v i_o a_o particular_a inspection_n over_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o a_o small_a division_n in_o a_o wilderness_n it_o be_v my_o duty_n to_o aim_v in_o all_o my_o action_n at_o the_o general_a good_a i_o resolve_v to_o recommend_v to_o the_o public_a such_o a_o treatise_n as_o may_v serve_v and_o be_v useful_a to_o all_o family_n in_o our_o reform_a church_n and_o in_o it_o to_o have_v a_o general_a aim_n at_o the_o benefit_n of_o all_o christian_n for_o i_o think_v that_o there_o be_v none_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o within_o the_o limit_n of_o christ_n church_n but_o he_o shall_v in_o this_o short_a tract_n find_v prayer_n and_o advice_n which_o may_v suit_v with_o the_o condition_n and_o temper_n of_o his_o soul_n you_o therefore_o that_o desire_n that_o religion_n shall_v flourish_v among_o we_o neglect_v not_o its_o chief_a duty_n but_o see_v that_o it_o be_v careful_o observe_v in_o your_o own_o practice_n and_o that_o of_o those_o recommend_v to_o your_o care_n as_o soon_o as_o your_o child_n begin_v to_o speak_v teach_v they_o to_o cry_v abba_n father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n call_v upon_o they_o morning_n and_o evening_n to_o implore_v protection_n and_o assistance_n let_v their_o tongue_n be_v use_v betimes_o to_o tune_v forth_o the_o praise_n of_o their_o maker_n and_o acknowledge_v the_o providence_n of_o god_n remember_v that_o piety_n with_o the_o blessing_n of_o heaven_n be_v the_o best_a and_o most_o durable_a portion_n which_o you_o can_v procure_v to_o your_o little_a one_o and_o the_o only_a mean_n to_o obtain_v it_o be_v careful_o to_o practice_v this_o and_o all_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n as_o they_o grow_v to_o year_n of_o understanding_n let_v they_o proceed_v on_o in_o learning_n the_o prayer_n that_o be_v sit_v for_o their_o capacity_n and_o suitable_a to_o their_o ability_n let_v they_o know_v that_o their_o chief_a dependency_n be_v upon_o that_o almighty_a be_v who_o have_v create_v the_o world_n and_o put_v they_o into_o it_o to_o serve_v and_o worship_v he_o this_o daily_a practice_n of_o seek_v to_o god_n in_o prayer_n will_v keep_v youth_n from_o all_o those_o extravagancy_n and_o vicious_a action_n by_o which_o the_o gallant_n of_o our_o time_n be_v become_v a_o reproach_n to_o christianity_n and_o humanity_n itself_o thou_o shall_v never_o have_v the_o displeasure_n to_o see_v thy_o son_n and_o thy_o daughter_n either_o unruly_a in_o their_o behaviour_n or_o profane_v in_o their_o discourse_n or_o corrupt_v in_o their_o life_n if_o thou_o will_v when_o they_o be_v young_a train_v they_o up_o in_o the_o constant_a and_o continual_a observance_n of_o this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n for_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o proper_a and_o of_o a_o great_a force_n to_o keep_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n from_o the_o temptation_n of_o our_o day_n and_o from_o all_o disorder_n as_o this_o correspondency_n with_o god_n in_o prayer_n man_n therefore_o in_o this_o respect_n be_v like_o a_o watch_n or_o a_o clock_n the_o least_o neglect_n disturb_v the_o motion_n and_o steal_v he_o insensible_o into_o improficiency_n or_o a_o offence_n pray_v therefore_o o_o christian_a man_n or_o woman_n and_o pray_v without_o cease_v in_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n let_v your_o request_n be_v make_v know_v unto_o god_n be_v not_o silent_a when_o god_n require_v you_o to_o speak_v in_o whatsoever_o estate_n providence_n may_v cast_v you_o make_v use_n of_o those_o prayer_n that_o be_v answerable_a to_o your_o condition_n if_o you_o can_v offer_v up_o the_o prayer_n of_o our_o church_n with_o any_o satisfaction_n to_o your_o mind_n use_v they_o rather_o than_o other_o but_o if_o your_o prejudices_fw-la be_v so_o strong_a and_o your_o aversion_n so_o invincible_a that_o you_o can_v yet_o relish_v they_o use_v the_o other_o prayer_n more_o agreeable_a to_o your_o affection_n however_o neglect_v not_o this_o most_o important_a this_o most_o weighty_a and_o most_o indispensible_a duty_n but_o perform_v it_o with_o all_o the_o care_n and_o devotion_n that_o god_n greatness_n and_o thy_o mean_a condition_n require_v from_o thou_o and_o i_o beseech_v the_o god_n of_o all_o goodness_n to_o hear_v thy_o request_n to_o grant_v thy_o petition_n to_o comfort_v and_o refresh_v thy_o soul_n and_o body_n with_o spiritual_a and_o temporal_a mercy_n and_o that_o this_o treatise_n may_v be_v as_o useful_a to_o the_o public_a as_o it_o be_v intend_v by_o m._n d._n a_o morning_n prayer_n for_o a_o family_n according_a to_o the_o book_n of_o common-prayer_n o_o lord_n who_o have_v promise_v that_o before_o we_o call_v thou_o will_v answer_v and_o whilst_o we_o be_v yet_o speak_v 51.10_o isa_n 65.24_o psal_n 6.1_o psal_n 25_o 1â—_n psal_n 51.10_o thou_o will_v hear_v rebuke_v we_o not_o in_o thy_o indignation_n neither_o chasten_v we_o in_o thy_o displeasure_n for_o thy_o name_n sake_n be_v merciful_a to_o our_o sin_n make_v we_o clean_a heart_n o_o god_n and_o renew_v a_o right_a spirit_n within_o we_o o_o lord_n we_o beseech_v thou_o merciful_o hear_v our_o prayer_n and_o spare_v all_o those_o who_o confess_v their_o sin_n unto_o thou_o that_o they_o who_o conscience_n by_o sin_n be_v accuse_v by_o thy_o merciful_a pardon_n may_v be_v absolve_v through_o christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o o_o almighty_a lord_n and_o everlasting_a god_n vouchsafe_v we_o beseech_v thou_o to_o direct_v sanctify_v and_o govern_v both_o our_o heart_n and_o body_n in_o the_o way_n of_o thy_o law_n and_o in_o the_o work_n of_o thy_o commandment_n that_o through_o thy_o most_o mighty_a protection_n both_o now_o and_o ever_o we_o may_v be_v preserve_v in_o body_n and_o soul_n through_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n amen_n prevent_v we_o o_o lord_n in_o all_o our_o do_n with_o thy_o most_o gracious_a favour_n and_o further_o we_o with_o thy_o continual_a help_n that_o in_o all_o our_o work_n begin_v continue_v and_o end_v in_o thou_o we_o may_v glorify_v thy_o holy_a name_n and_o final_o by_o thy_o mercy_n obtain_v everlasting_a life_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n amen_o bless_a be_v thy_o holy_a name_n o_o lord_n for_o thy_o continual_a and_o daily_a mercy_n grant_v to_o we_o for_o thy_o protection_n and_o preservation_n till_o this_o time_n for_o the_o safety_n and_o quiet_a repose_v of_o the_o last_o night_n for_o the_o welfare_n and_o health_n of_o our_o body_n and_o for_o all_o thy_o temporal_a blessing_n which_o thou_o heap_a upon_o we_o gracious_a god_n we_o acknowledge_v these_o and_o all_o other_o mercy_n which_o we_o enjoy_v to_o be_v undeserved_a favour_n proceed_v from_o thy_o bountiful_a hand_n and_o fatherly_a goodness_n continue_v they_o we_o beseech_v thou_o to_o we_o and_o all_o other_o thing_n needful_a for_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n and_o give_v we_o grace_n in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o to_o glorify_v thy_o great_a name_n and_o to_o be_v true_o thankful_a in_o our_o heart_n and_o life_n for_o all_o expression_n of_o thy_o unwearied_a liberality_n all_o this_o we_o beg_v for_o jesus_n christ_n his_o sake_n amen_n o_o god_n the_o protector_n of_o all_o that_o put_v their_o trust_n in_o thou_o without_o who_o nothing_o be_v strong_a nothing_o be_v holy_a increase_n and_o multiply_v in_o we_o thy_o mercy_n that_o thou_o be_v our_o ruler_n and_o guide_n
thou_o for_o ever_o and_o ever_o come_v lord_n jesus_n come_v quick_o receive_v i_o into_o thy_o sacred_a embrace_n i_o will_v wait_v thy_o leisure_n send_v thy_o holy_a angel_n to_o convey_v my_o soul_n into_o thy_o gracious_a presence_n that_o i_o may_v rejoice_v for_o ever_o with_o thy_o elect_n and_o glorify_v thy_o mercy_n ease_v i_o of_o my_o grievous_a pain_n relieve_v my_o sorrowful_a soul_n comfort_v it_o with_o a_o beam_n of_o thy_o countenance_n thou_o have_v redeem_v it_o o_o my_o sweet_a jesus_n receive_v it_o as_o thy_o own_o purchase_n i_o yield_v it_o up_o unto_o thou_o turn_v my_o sorrow_n into_o joy_n my_o suffering_n and_o agony_n into_o pleasure_n lay_v up_o at_o thy_o right_a hand_n assist_v i_o with_o thy_o intercession_n and_o plead_v for_o i_o o_o my_o heavenly_a advocate_n amen_n a_o meditation_n and_o prayer_n for_o such_o as_o be_v go_v to_o the_o public_a assembly_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n o_o eternal_a wisdom_n what_o a_o mercy_n be_v this_o to_o instruct_v and_o teach_v we_o at_o our_o door_n to_o enable_v enlighten_v inspire_v and_o send_v messenger_n so_o near_o our_o dwelling_n to_o direct_v we_o in_o the_o right_a way_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n what_o a_o condescension_n be_v this_o to_o speak_v to_o we_o in_o our_o own_o language_n according_a to_o our_o capacity_n by_o man_n who_o presence_n express_v nothing_o but_o meekness_n and_o love_n be_v it_o not_o sufficient_a o_o bless_a god_n that_o thou_o shall_v open_v to_o we_o the_o large_a book_n of_o nature_n to_o inform_v we_o of_o thy_o will_n and_o sacred_a law_n by_o so_o many_o character_n imprint_v in_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v make_v be_v it_o not_o sufficient_a for_o our_o learning_n to_o show_v we_o thy_o pleasure_n in_o the_o several_a leaf_n of_o another_o book_n of_o providence_n open_v to_o we_o wide_o every_o day_n of_o our_o life_n but_o must_v thy_o tender_a compassion_n of_o our_o natural_a ignorance_n unmindfulness_n and_o wilful_a corruption_n teach_v we_o by_o such_o plain_a easy_a and_o excellent_a method_n so_o full_a of_o kindness_n and_o love_n must_v the_o repetition_n be_v so_o frequent_a must_v thou_o so_o often_o visit_v and_o call_v upon_o we_o to_o study_v and_o meditate_v upon_o the_o divine_a matter_n certain_o our_o mind_n be_v too_o much_o wed_v to_o the_o world_n and_o too_o much_o incline_v to_o irregular_a action_n see_v thou_o have_v judge_v needful_a to_o repeat_v so_o often_o to_o we_o our_o duty_n and_o we_o want_v every_o week_n instruction_n to_o withdraw_v our_o contemplation_n from_o evil_a and_o vanity_n shall_v not_o our_o diligence_n answer_v in_o some_o respect_n thy_o continual_a care_n o_o merciful_a wisdom_n and_o as_o frequent_o meet_v thou_o as_o we_o be_v call_v upon_o by_o these_o public_a summons_n doubtless_o the_o business_n that_o we_o be_v to_o mind_n be_v of_o importance_n see_v my_o creator_n think_v necessary_a to_o interpose_v his_o divine_a authority_n and_o to_o speak_v to_o we_o himself_o though_o by_o the_o tongue_n of_o a_o mortal_a man._n with_o what_o reverence_n and_o dread_n ought_v i_o to_o approach_v the_o gracious_a presence_n of_o my_o god_n who_o vouchsafe_v to_o speak_v and_o instruct_v i_o in_o such_o a_o love_a manner_n his_o word_n and_o law_n shall_v not_o in_o reason_n have_v the_o less_o power_n and_o impression_n upon_o i_o because_o of_o his_o condescension_n to_o my_o weakness_n and_o capacity_n shall_v i_o despise_v the_o mercy_n of_o my_o god_n that_o be_v so_o great_a and_o wonderful_a deliver_v to_o i_o in_o earthen_a vessel_n o_o bless_a and_o heavenly_a wisdom_n i_o be_o call_v away_o from_o my_o temporal_a affair_n to_o wait_v upon_o thou_o and_o hearken_v to_o the_o divine_a matter_n that_o shall_v be_v propose_v which_o relate_v to_o my_o eternal_a interest_n their_o excellency_n require_v my_o attention_n and_o diligent_a enquiry_n for_o this_o supernatural_a knowledge_n which_o be_v able_a to_o save_v my_o soul_n here_o thou_o do_v reveal_v unto_o i_o what_o i_o be_o and_o what_o i_o shall_v be_v and_o what_o i_o shall_v be_v here_o be_v discover_v the_o admirable_a mystery_n of_o the_o holy_a trinity_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o incarnation_n and_o redemption_n here_o thou_o do_v unbosom_v thyself_o to_o mortal_a creature_n and_o show_v the_o tenderness_n of_o thy_o affection_n to_o we_o here_o i_o may_v have_v a_o prospect_n of_o the_o unspeakable_a riches_n of_o heaven_n and_o see_v the_o glory_n that_o be_v lay_v up_o for_o i_o in_o thy_o eternal_a sanctuary_n these_o be_v matter_n worthy_a of_o the_o angel_n pry_v into_o these_o be_v meditation_n fit_a for_o the_o heavenly_a spirit_n and_o shall_v i_o neglect_v or_o despise_v they_o shall_v i_o idle_a away_o this_o precious_a moment_n design_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o my_o immortal_a soul_n my_o gracious_a god_n cause_v i_o to_o increase_v in_o grace_n and_o in_o the_o divine_a knowledge_n of_o my_o redemption_n enlighten_v my_o understanding_n with_o a_o clear_a apprehension_n of_o the_o heavenly_a truth_n sanctify_v the_o outward_a preach_v of_o thy_o word_n that_o it_o may_v be_v effectual_a and_o able_a to_o work_v upon_o my_o will_n give_v i_o a_o attentive_a ear_n and_o a_o obedient_a heart_n willing_a to_o submit_v to_o and_o practice_v whatsoever_o thou_o shall_v command_v deliver_v i_o from_o the_o ill_a consequence_n of_o error_n partiality_n and_o prejudice_n and_o make_v i_o true_o thankful_a to_o thou_o for_o this_o great_a blessing_n remove_v not_o thy_o gospel_n from_o we_o but_o save_v we_o from_o the_o pernicious_a plot_n of_o the_o antichristian_a heresy_n unite_v all_o of_o we_o in_o our_o worship_n and_o church_n that_o we_o may_v study_v to_o preserve_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o peace_n and_o be_v all_o together_o unite_v now_o in_o the_o church_n militant_a we_o may_v be_v all_o the_o more_o ready_a and_o prepare_v to_o enter_v in_o due_a time_n into_o the_o church_n triumphant_a into_o that_o glorious_a kingdom_n of_o love_n and_o peace_n where_o our_o sanctification_n shall_v be_v complete_v our_o knowledge_n perfect_v and_o our_o employment_n for_o ever_o shall_v be_v to_o celebrate_v and_o sing_v forth_o thy_o praise_n with_o the_o chorus_n of_o heavenly_a spirit_n amen_n a_o prayer_n for_o soldier_n before_o a_o fight_n o_o lord_n of_o host_n creator_n and_o preserver_n of_o the_o world_n look_v upon_o we_o in_o mercy_n at_o this_o time_n that_o we_o be_v go_v to_o hazard_v our_o life_n for_o the_o honour_n a_o interest_n of_o our_o king_n and_o kingdom_n and_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o thy_o name_n and_o the_o preservation_n of_o thy_o true_a religion_n among_o we_o we_o be_v confident_a in_o the_o justice_n and_o equity_n of_o our_o cause_n against_o these_o disturber_n of_o the_o peace_n and_o happiness_n of_o mankind_n good_a god_n assist_v we_o with_o victory_n and_o success_n strengthen_v our_o courage_n give_v we_o undaunted_a 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