be_v hurry_v on_o to_o dangerous_a and_o destructive_a action_n but_o nature_n go_v on_o even_o in_o make_v provision_n for_o its_o health_n and_o support_n and_o it_o enjoy_v its_o strength_n and_o beauty_n as_o in_o the_o time_n of_o quietness_n and_o peace_n in_o the_o last_o place_n a_o comfortable_a expectation_n of_o a_o much_o better_a and_o endless_a life_n in_o the_o region_n of_o glory_n can_v spring_v from_o nothing_o but_o sincere_a religion_n and_o therefore_o religion_n be_v of_o very_o great_a value_n with_o respect_n to_o this_o world_n for_o what_o can_v be_v of_o great_a value_n and_o more_o to_o be_v desire_v in_o this_o valley_n of_o tear_n this_o world_n of_o sin_n and_o sorrow_n and_o ignorance_n vexation_n and_o disappointment_n than_o to_o have_v a_o well_o ground_a hope_n that_o it_o will_v not_o be_v always_o so_o with_o we_o that_o there_o will_v be_v a_o time_n when_o all_o tear_n shall_v be_v wipe_v from_o our_o eye_n and_o sin_n and_o misery_n be_v at_o a_o end_n for_o ever_o that_o we_o shall_v one_o day_n be_v disentangle_v from_o the_o clog_n of_o flesh_n the_o prison_n door_n set_v open_a and_o our_o captive_a soul_n set_v free_a and_o with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n return_v to_o the_o great_a father_n of_o spirit_n and_o with_o the_o full_a vigour_n of_o all_o their_o faculty_n contemplate_v and_o enjoy_v the_o only_o satisfy_v good_a that_o instead_o of_o flood_n of_o year_n there_o shall_v then_o be_v river_n of_o pleasure_n flow_v in_o upon_o we_o to_o all_o eternity_n halleluia_n instead_o of_o groan_n and_o mournful_a accent_n the_o triumphant_a rejoice_n of_o eternal_a beatify_v spirit_n instead_o of_o the_o bitter_a complaint_n of_o miserable_a mortal_n and_o in_o a_o word_n love_n in_o its_o perfection_n instead_o of_o quarrel_n and_o discontent_n envy_n and_o hatred_n and_o malice_n and_o revenge_n and_o all_o the_o dire_a attendant_n of_o they_o that_o instead_o of_o spiritual_a blindness_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o most_o concern_v truth_n for_o here_o we_o know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o see_v through_o a_o glass_n dark_o we_o shall_v ever_o long_o be_v admit_v to_o contemplate_v truth_n itself_o and_o know_v as_o we_o be_v know_v and_o shall_v see_v god_n as_o he_o be_v and_o in_o he_o all_o thing_n for_o god_n be_v light_n what_o can_v be_v more_o valuable_a than_o such_o a_o cheer_v expectation_n as_o this_o how_o will_v it_o sweeten_v all_o the_o trouble_n of_o this_o mortal_a life_n and_o be_v a_o sensible_a foretaste_n of_o the_o glory_n that_o shall_v hereafter_o be_v reveal_v but_o now_o nothing_o can_v create_v such_o a_o hope_n as_o this_o but_o sincere_a religion_n for_o god_n be_v infinite_o pure_a and_o holy_a and_o into_o his_o presence_n no_o unclean_a thing_n can_v enter_v and_o it_o be_v express_o say_v in_o the_o revelation_n of_o his_o will_n that_o without_o holiness_n no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n a_o wicked_a man_n breast_n that_o be_v not_o sear_v can_v be_v full_a of_o nothing_o but_o the_o dire_a reflection_n of_o a_o enrage_v conscience_n and_o dreadful_a foreboding_n of_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v the_o misery_n he_o feel_v in_o this_o world_n be_v but_o as_o the_o beginning_n of_o his_o eternal_a sorrow_n and_o while_o he_o continue_v in_o his_o rebellion_n against_o god_n he_o can_v expect_v nothing_o but_o new_a express_v of_o his_o indignation_n here_o and_o to_o be_v doom_v to_o the_o portion_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o angel_n at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n he_o only_o that_o have_v live_v pious_o in_o this_o world_n can_v with_o any_o comfort_n think_v upon_o a_o future_a state_n but_o to_o he_o that_o have_v lead_v this_o first_o life_n by_o the_o rule_n of_o religion_n and_o serve_v his_o maker_n in_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n no_o joy_n comparable_a to_o that_o which_o he_o experience_n when_o he_o think_v of_o be_v dissolve_v and_o conduct_v to_o the_o embrace_n of_o his_o saviour_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n where_o he_o shall_v be_v for_o ever_o with_o he_o and_o unspeakable_o happy_a in_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o dear_a lord_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o value_n of_o religion_n with_o relation_n to_o this_o world_n it_o be_v the_o parent_n of_o the_o most_o perfect_a peace_n and_o quietness_n content_a and_o satisfaction_n of_o mind_n of_o a_o long_a and_o healthy_a life_n here_o and_o of_o a_o comfortable_a expectation_n of_o a_o glorious_a immortality_n in_o the_o region_n of_o blessedness_n and_o be_v this_o all_o that_o can_v be_v say_v of_o it_o i_o question_v not_o but_o to_o any_o consider_a man_n it_o will_v appear_v to_o be_v a_o jewel_n of_o inestimable_a price_n that_o nothing_o the_o whole_a world_n can_v afford_v be_v comparable_a to_o it_o and_o that_o he_o be_v the_o wise_a man_n who_o with_o the_o merchant_n in_o the_o parable_n immediate_o part_n with_o all_o that_o stand_v in_o competition_n with_o religion_n and_o will_v hinder_v he_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o it_o but_o this_o be_v far_o from_o all_o godliness_n have_v not_o only_o a_o promise_n of_o the_o life_n that_o now_o be_v but_o also_o and_o chief_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o if_o it_o appear_v to_o be_v so_o inestimable_a a_o treasure_n when_o we_o look_v no_o further_o than_o this_o life_n what_o shall_v we_o think_v of_o it_o when_o we_o contemplate_v that_o exceed_a weight_n of_o glory_n which_o shall_v be_v its_o reward_n in_o heaven_n the_o happiness_n that_o will_v crown_v religion_n in_o the_o other_o world_n spring_v from_o the_o same_o fountain_n from_o whence_o do_v flow_v the_o felicity_n of_o god_n himself_o i._n e._n it_o consist_v in_o a_o intimate_a view_n and_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o the_o beauty_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n for_o so_o st._n john_n 1_o joh._n 3.2_o we_o shall_v see_v god_n as_o he_o be_v it_o must_v needs_o be_v inexpressible_a nay_o the_o very_a contemplation_n of_o it_o be_v too_o bright_a for_o mind_n darken_v with_o flesh_n the_o splendour_n of_o it_o flash_n too_o strong_o upon_o our_o feeble_a sense_n now_o we_o be_v in_o the_o body_n and_o too_o long_o and_o close_o gaze_v on_o will_n rather_o dazzle_v than_o enlighten_v our_o understanding_n no_o mortal_a man_n can_v see_v god_n face_n and_o live_v and_o therefore_o most_o true_a be_v that_o of_o the_o apostle_n eye_n have_v not_o see_v nor_o ear_n hear_v 2.9_o 1_o cor._n 2.9_o neither_o can_v it_o enter_v into_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n to_o conceive_v the_o thing_n that_o god_n have_v reserve_v for_o those_o that_o love_v he_o indeed_o this_o include_v all_o that_o can_v possible_o be_v imagine_v of_o excellence_n and_o much_o more_o than_o we_o poor_a ignorant_a benight_a creature_n can_v imagine_v for_o god_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o be_v and_o consequent_o of_o perfection_n all_o that_o be_v charm_v and_o true_o desirable_a in_o nature_n to_o our_o sense_n or_o to_o our_o understanding_n in_o the_o visible_a or_o invisible_a creation_n be_v but_o a_o stream_n from_o this_o divine_a fountain_n and_o be_v in_o he_o ininfinite_o great_a excellency_n for_o he_o be_v beauty_n and_o goodness_n and_o harmony_n itself_o and_o therefore_o since_o religion_n will_v bring_v we_o to_o such_o a_o happiness_n as_o the_o vision_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o this_o chief_a good_a what_o can_v compare_v with_o it_o for_o value_v the_o depth_n say_v it_o be_v not_o in_o i_o and_o the_o sea_n say_v it_o be_v not_o with_o i_o man_n know_v not_o the_o price_n thereof_o neither_o be_v it_o find_v in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o live_n it_o can_v be_v value_v with_o the_o gold_n of_o ophir_n with_o the_o precious_a onyx_n or_o the_o saphire_n no_o mention_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o coral_n or_o pearl_n for_o the_o price_n of_o wisdom_n be_v above_o ruby_n job_n 28.13_o etc._n etc._n such_o then_o be_v the_o excellency_n of_o religion_n that_o it_o be_v above_o all_o thing_n conducive_a to_o the_o happiness_n of_o man_n in_o this_o world_n and_o will_v bring_v he_o to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n himself_o to_o eternal_a age_n when_o this_o short_a life_n be_v end_v and_o the_o whole_a that_o the_o world_n can_v afford_v amount_v to_o no_o more_o by_o the_o confession_n of_o one_o that_o enjoy_v it_o all_o to_o the_o full_a than_o emptiness_n and_o disappointment_n vanity_n and_o vexation_n of_o spirit_n here_o and_o if_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v true_a a_o eternal_a banishment_n from_o the_o supreme_a good_a shall_v at_o last_o be_v their_o punishment_n who_o love_v this_o worthless_a world_n more_o than_o religion_n and_o their_o maker_n these_o thing_n be_v due_o weigh_v and_o consider_v let_v any_o man_n in_o his_o wit_n say_v which_o be_v of_o great_a value_n religion_n or_o
the_o world_n and_o which_o be_v the_o wise_a man_n he_o that_o ruin_v his_o soul_n for_o the_o gain_n of_o even_o the_o whole_a world_n or_o he_o that_o count_v all_o these_o sublunary_a thing_n as_o dung_n in_o comparison_n with_o religion_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o part_v with_o all_o that_o this_o earth_n can_v afford_v he_o for_o the_o joy_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n here_o and_o the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n hereafter_o he_o that_o prefer_v the_o world_n in_o his_o choice_n deprive_v himself_o of_o the_o great_a comfort_n of_o this_o present_a life_n and_o part_n with_o the_o certain_a reversion_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n in_o heaven_n for_o pleasure_n that_o do_v deserve_v that_o name_n they_o be_v so_o empty_a and_o unsatisfy_a he_o bring_v most_o exquisite_a and_o everlasting_a misery_n upon_o his_o whole_a self_n soul_n and_o body_n for_o a_o very_a short_a live_v imperfect_a gratification_n of_o his_o brutal_a part_n only_o and_o purchase_v the_o torment_n of_o the_o other_o world_n by_o make_v himself_o unhappy_a in_o this_o in_o a_o word_n therefore_o as_o much_o as_o to_o be_v like_o god_n in_o holiness_n and_o happiness_n be_v to_o be_v prefer_v before_o be_v like_o the_o devil_n in_o sin_n and_o misery_n as_o much_o as_o satisfaction_n be_v better_a than_o disappointment_n peace_n and_o quietness_n and_o content_a than_o vexation_n and_o continual_a disturbance_n and_o perplexity_n of_o mind_n a_o confirm_a health_n and_o long_a life_n than_o the_o disease_n and_o hasty_a death_n that_o follow_v debauchery_n and_o the_o comfortable_a expectation_n of_o be_v for_o ever_o happy_a with_o saint_n and_o angel_n and_o the_o bless_a god_n in_o the_o celestial_a paradise_n than_o the_o confound_a dread_a of_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o great_a day_n as_o much_o as_o immortality_n be_v more_o to_o be_v prize_v than_o a_o life_n of_o a_o span_n long_o and_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o chief_a good_a than_o the_o pleasure_n of_o a_o swine_n of_o so_o much_o gerater_n value_n be_v religion_n than_o all_o that_o this_o world_n can_v afford_v and_o indeed_o the_o only_a desirable_a treasure_n and_o a_o pearl_n of_o inestimable_a price_n and_o now_o if_o what_o have_v be_v hitherto_o discourse_v be_v true_a the_o application_n be_v easy_a if_o religion_n be_v of_o all_o thing_n the_o most_o precious_a let_v we_o make_v it_o more_o and_o more_o our_o endeavour_n to_o enrich_v our_o soul_n with_o this_o treasure_n to_o adorn_v our_o rational_a nature_n with_o this_o pearl_n of_o great_a price_n and_o with_o the_o merchant_n in_o the_o parable_n think_v nothing_o too_o much_o to_o part_v with_o that_o we_o may_v purchase_v that_o heavenly_a wisdom_n which_o will_v make_v we_o wise_a to_o salvation_n for_o sound_a wisdom_n as_o the_o wise_a king_n express_v it_o 3.18_o prov._n 3.18_o be_v a_o tree_n of_o life_n to_o those_o that_o lay_v hold_v upon_o she_o and_o happy_a be_v every_o one_o that_o retain_v she_o she_o shall_v give_v to_o thy_o head_n a_o oranment_n of_o grace_n 4.9_o prov._n 4.9_o and_o a_o crown_n of_o glory_n shall_v she_o deliver_v to_o thou_o but_o he_o that_o will_v have_v this_o wisdom_n and_o find_v this_o pearl_n must_v not_o only_o wish_v and_o desire_n but_o with_o the_o merchant_n in_o the_o parable_n diligent_o seek_v it_o seek_v and_o you_o shall_v find_v say_v our_o lord_n 5._o pro._n 2.4_o 5._o and_o solomon_n assure_v we_o that_o if_o we_o seek_v wisdom_n as_o silver_n and_o search_v for_o she_o as_o for_o hide_a treasure_n then_o shall_v we_o understand_v the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o find_v the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n religion_n be_v not_o acquire_v without_o diligence_n for_o though_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n yet_o the_o soul_n must_v be_v prepare_v to_o receive_v it_o all_o evil_a habit_n must_v be_v break_v and_o root_v up_o and_o pious_a disposition_n plant_v in_o their_o room_n and_o the_o temper_n of_o the_o mind_n change_v by_o repentance_n and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o whole_a man_n become_v pliable_a to_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o holiness_n before_o the_o divine_a likeness_n can_v be_v form_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o though_o it_o be_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o enable_v we_o to_o go_v thus_o far_o for_o without_o it_o we_o can_v do_v nothing_o yet_o our_o own_o concurrence_n and_o co-operation_n with_o his_o grace_n be_v necessary_a to_o bring_v the_o bless_a work_n of_o regeneration_n to_o perfection_n a_o obstinate_a resistance_n of_o prevent_a grace_n will_v grieve_v and_o quench_v that_o life-giving_a spirit_n and_o such_o a_o soul_n shall_v know_v no_o more_o of_o religion_n than_o that_o it_o be_v invite_v to_o it_o but_o reject_v the_o offer_n and_o may_v have_v be_v happy_a in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o so_o great_a a_o treasure_n but_o it_o will_v not_o but_o when_o a_o soul_n with_o joy_n embrace_v the_o motion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o a_o new_a life_n and_o make_v it_o her_o great_a endeavour_n to_o remove_v all_o obstacle_n out_o of_o the_o way_n that_o they_o may_v make_v a_o due_a impression_n and_o hunger_n and_o thirst_v after_o new_a degree_n of_o righteousness_n this_o soul_n shall_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o treasure_n of_o the_o divine_a grace_n and_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n will_v be_v visible_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o holy_a conversation_n but_o this_o can_v be_v perform_v without_o a_o watchful_a persevere_v diligence_n there_o be_v so_o much_o opposition_n from_o within_o and_o without_o to_o this_o great_a business_n that_o like_o nehemiah_n labourer_n 5.17_o neh._n 5.17_o we_o must_v work_v with_o our_o sword_n in_o our_o hand_n and_o fight_v and_o strive_v that_o we_o may_v carry_v on_o the_o building_n of_o a_o live_a temple_n for_o our_o god_n and_o make_v our_o soul_n house_n of_o prayer_n adorn_v with_o religious_a affection_n and_o sit_v to_o receive_v he_o that_o hate_v iniquity_n he_o that_o be_v thus_o diligent_a shall_v grow_v rich_a towards_o god_n and_o daily_o increase_v in_o the_o knowledge_n and_o love_n of_o he_o till_o mortality_n shall_v be_v swallow_v up_o of_o life_n and_o then_o all_o the_o labour_n of_o religion_n shall_v for_o ever_o be_v at_o a_o end_n and_o nothing_o remain_v for_o the_o happy_a soul_n to_o do_v but_o to_o enjoy_v to_o all_o eternity_n the_o glorious_a reward_n of_o it_o let_v we_o all_o therefore_o be_v steadfast_a unmoveable_a and_o always_o abound_v in_o this_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o as_o much_o as_o we_o know_v our_o labour_n shall_v not_o be_v in_o vain_a and_o to_o our_o diligent_a pursuit_n of_o this_o inestimable_a treasure_n of_o religion_n let_v we_o add_v frequent_a and_o earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n who_o be_v the_o only_a giver_n of_o every_o good_a and_o perfect_a gift_n that_o he_o will_v send_v down_o wisdom_n from_o his_o holy_a heaven_n that_o be_v present_a she_o may_v labour_v with_o we_o that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o be_v please_v in_o his_o sight_n and_o set_v ourselves_o to_o do_v it_o with_o all_o alacrity_n run_v with_o diligence_n and_o patience_n the_o race_n that_o be_v set_v before_o we_o look_v unto_o jesus_n the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n who_o for_o the_o joy_n that_o be_v set_v before_o he_o endure_v the_o cross_n despise_v the_o shame_n 2._o heb._n 12.1_o 2._o and_o be_v set_v down_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n remember_v that_o we_o also_o shall_v reap_v in_o due_a season_n if_o we_o faint_v not_o and_o if_o we_o part_v with_o all_o the_o vile_a affection_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o religion_n in_o this_o world_n and_o be_v ready_a in_o preparation_n of_o mind_n to_o suffer_v any_o worldly_a loss_n even_o to_o that_o of_o life_n itself_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o jesus_n and_o his_o truth_n we_o shall_v find_v such_o a_o recompense_n of_o reward_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n as_o will_v abundant_o compensate_a all_o our_o suffering_n here_o 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 happy_a be_v the_o exchange_n of_o all_o that_o this_o world_n can_v afford_v for_o a_o jewel_n of_o so_o great_a price_n as_o religion_n and_o for_o such_o inexhaustible_a treasure_n of_o bliss_n as_o be_v reserve_v to_o reward_v it_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n what_o be_v our_o great_a interest_n therefore_o let_v we_o before_o all_o thing_n pursue_v and_o where_o our_o treasure_n be_v there_o let_v our_o heart_n be_v also_o the_o prayer_n i._o o_o merciful_a jesus_n who_o have_v prepare_v for_o we_o a_o treasure_n in_o heaven_n and_o teach_v we_o the_o way_n to_o attain_v it_o and_o warn_v we_o of_o the_o emptiness_n of_o this_o world_n be_v good_a that_o we_o may_v not_o be_v
to_o redeem_v their_o misspend_a time_n and_o talk_v of_o nothing_o but_o rapture_n and_o of_o reach_v great_a height_n and_o eminency_n of_o piety_n when_o all_o on_o the_o sudden_a they_o be_v at_o a_o stand_v there_o be_v a_o lion_n in_o the_o way_n a_o right_a hand_n must_v be_v cut_v off_o or_o a_o right_a eye_n put_v out_o i._n e._n some_o favourite_n vice_n must_v be_v cashier_v if_o they_o move_v any_o further_a and_o that_o be_v a_o hard_a say_v and_o the_o man_n begin_v to_o cool_v a_o stifness_n seize_v their_o overheat_v limb_n and_o a_o senseless_a torpor_n invade_v every_o part_n of_o they_o 10.21_o mark_v 10.21_o and_o like_o the_o young_a man_n in_o the_o gospel_n who_o our_o lord_n begin_v to_o love_v for_o his_o discreet_a answer_n and_o towardly_a disposition_n when_o they_o must_v part_v with_o their_o riches_n to_o the_o poor_a and_o deny_v themselves_o their_o corrupt_a desire_n and_o inclination_n and_o take_v up_o their_o cross_n and_o follow_v their_o saviour_n 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the_o cost_n whether_o they_o be_v able_a to_o finish_v and_o so_o proceed_v no_o further_a than_o foundation_n become_v the_o scorn_n of_o all_o men._n but_o second_o as_o a_o state_n of_o careless_a inadvertency_n to_o the_o thing_n of_o religion_n be_v like_o sleep_n in_o its_o cause_n and_o beginning_n so_o likewise_o be_v it_o in_o its_o progress_n and_o effect_n for_o like_o sleep_n it_o lock_v up_o all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o suspend_v their_o action_n it_o dull_v its_o apprehension_n and_o make_v it_o take_v evil_a for_o good_a and_o good_a for_o evil_a it_o vitiate_v its_o reason_v and_o make_v it_o draw_v false_a and_o fantastic_a consequence_n and_o conclusion_n and_o therefore_o corrupt_v its_o will_n and_o affection_n and_o make_v its_o choice_n strange_o foolish_a and_o ridiculous_a such_o as_o prefer_v earth_n before_o heaven_n a_o little_a ease_n and_o imperfect_a pleasure_n here_o before_z rivers_z of_o ineffable_a pleasure_n that_o be_v at_o god_n right_a hand_n for_o evermore_o and_o the_o like_a the_o low_a life_n be_v in_o this_o case_n predomimant_n and_o wild_a dream_n and_o incoherent_a fancy_n make_v up_o such_o man_n divinity_n and_o their_o rule_n of_o life_n and_o manner_n in_o short_a the_o life_n of_o such_o man_n be_v but_o a_o dream_n their_o notion_n like_o those_o of_o man_n in_o a_o slumber_n dark_a hover_v and_o uncertain_a their_o discourse_n about_o religious_a marter_n break_a disjoint_v unconcluding_a full_a of_o fallacy_n and_o dangerous_a sophistry_n to_o cheat_v themselves_o of_o all_o expectation_n here_o and_o enjoyment_n hereafter_o of_o what_o be_v their_o great_a nay_o their_o only_a happiness_n their_o action_n be_v like_o those_o do_v in_o a_o dream_n too_o extravagant_a brutish_a and_o unaccountable_a startle_v at_o chimaera_n and_o the_o shadow_n of_o danger_n and_o insensible_a of_o the_o approach_n of_o real_a and_o substantial_a misery_n though_o just_o ready_a to_o overtake_v they_o fond_a of_o a_o bundle_n of_o feather_n in_o love_n with_o a_o airy_a nothing_o whilst_o their_o true_a interest_n be_v not_o in_o all_o their_o thought_n and_o to_o complete_a the_o parallel_n they_o be_v as_o deaf_a to_o all_o reproof_n as_o man_n asleep_a as_o little_o affect_v with_o good_a instruction_n and_o advice_n and_o so_o bewitch_v with_o the_o fancy_v sweetness_n of_o their_o slumber_n that_o they_o be_v as_o loath_a to_o be_v awaken_v and_o when_o by_o rudee_a application_n they_o be_v like_o man_n that_o have_v take_v too_o large_a a_o do_v of_o opium_n they_o be_v present_o overcome_v with_o heaviness_n and_o shut_v their_o eye_n against_o all_o conviction_n and_o fall_v asleep_a again_o and_o the_o final_a event_n be_v this_o that_o as_o natural_a drowsiness_n clothes_v a_o man_n with_o rag_n so_o the_o moral_n will_v clothe_v he_o with_o shame_n and_o utter_v confusion_n and_o now_o from_o this_o short_a parallel_n which_o i_o have_v draw_v between_o the_o sleep_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o body_n as_o we_o may_v see_v the_o fitness_n of_o the_o expression_n in_o the_o parable_n so_o we_o may_v learn_v what_o guard_n to_o keep_v upon_o ourselves_o to_o prevent_v our_o infernal_a enemy_n sow_v his_o tare_n or_o make_v we_o become_v as_o such_o by_o his_o wicked_a insinuation_n and_o suggestion_n it_o be_v while_n man_n thus_o sleep_v be_v thus_o thoughtless_a and_o inadvertent_n to_o religion_n and_o take_v up_o with_o the_o gaiety_n and_o pleasure_n of_o this_o world_n which_o like_o pleasant_a dream_n entertain_v the_o fancy_n and_o imagination_n with_o much_o delight_n but_o soon_o vanish_v and_o become_v utter_o unprofitable_a than_o it_o be_v that_o this_o subtle_a enemy_n make_v use_v of_o his_o opportunity_n and_o unobserved_a steal_v in_o his_o wicked_a injection_n which_o divert_v the_o soul_n still_o more_o and_o more_o from_o attend_v to_o her_o main_a interest_n and_o promote_v this_o spiritual_a slumber_n so_o long_o till_o too_o often_o it_o become_v chronical_a and_o habitual_a and_o a_o utter_a oblivion_n of_o all_o religious_a obligation_n a_o incurable_a numbness_n and_o stupidity_n of_o soul_n god_n know_v too_o often_o follow_v and_o man_n become_v like_o tare_n empty_a of_o all_o substantial_a goodness_n and_o at_o best_a but_o christian_n in_o name_n and_o show_v and_o fit_a for_o nothing_o but_o when_o god_n shall_v see_v fit_a to_o be_v gather_v up_o from_o among_o the_o wheat_n and_o burn_v wherefore_o it_o high_o concern_v all_o those_o that_o hope_v to_o be_v save_v not_o to_o sleep_v as_o do_v other_o but_o to_o watch_v and_o be_v sober_a to_o awake_v to_o righteousness_n and_o walk_v circumspect_o not_o as_o fool_n divert_v by_o every_o feather_n and_o gay_a appearance_n but_o as_o man_n that_o be_v wise_a to_o salvation_n always_o in_o a_o posture_n of_o watchfulness_n and_o defence_n fix_v our_o attention_n upon_o our_o duty_n and_o the_o exceed_a great_a reward_n of_o it_o and_o often_o reflect_v upon_o that_o intolerable_a misery_n which_o will_v certain_o be_v the_o consequence_n of_o such_o fatal_a slumbering_n and_o still_o press_v on_o with_o great_a courage_n as_o the_o difficulty_n of_o religion_n increase_v upon_o we_o and_o daily_o endeavour_v still_o more_o and_o more_o to_o shake_v off_o dead_a stupidity_n to_o religion_n which_o so_o easy_o beset_v we_o and_o to_o rouse_v up_o the_o faculty_n and_o employ_v they_o upon_o those_o noble_a of_o object_n patient_o receive_v instruction_n and_o reproof_n reject_v every_o notion_n and_o opinion_n that_o will_v destroy_v the_o necessity_n of_o a_o good_a life_n and_o studious_o avoid_v idleness_n and_o sloth_n and_o according_a to_o our_o lord_n be_v most_o excellent_a advice_n add_v prayer_n to_o watchfulness_n that_o we_o enter_v not_o into_o temptation_n this_o course_n if_o we_o take_v we_o shall_v defeat_v this_o general_o prevail_a stratagem_n of_o the_o subtle_a tempter_n and_o be_v always_o in_o a_o readiness_n to_o resist_v he_o make_v he_o fly_v from_o we_o with_o shame_n and_o disappointment_n and_o our_o soul_n will_v then_o grow_v more_o and_o more_o substantial_a in_o piety_n and_o abound_v in_o it_o as_o the_o good_a corn_n and_o at_o length_n be_v grow_v ripe_a for_o the_o glory_n and_o felicity_n of_o heaven_n be_v gather_v in_o peace_n and_o lay_v up_o in_o repository_n of_o eternal_a rest_n and_o safety_n as_o in_o the_o bless_a garner_n of_o our_o lord_n three_o this_o parable_n inform_v we_o of_o the_o time_n of_o discovery_n of_o the_o tare_n the_o hypocritical_a religionist_n namely_o the_o time_n of_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n when_o the_o blade_n be_v spring_v up_o and_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n or_o when_o the_o grain_n appear_v in_o the_o ear_n than_o appear_v the_o tare_n also_o then_o appear_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o good_a corn_n and_o the_o cockle_n which_o at_o first_o come_v up_o look_v as_o flourish_a
either_o whole_o deprive_v the_o soul_n of_o or_o turn_v it_o into_o poison_n and_o instead_o of_o disarm_v a_o misfortune_n by_o humble_a submission_n to_o the_o infinite_o wise_a and_o just_a and_o good_a disposal_n of_o the_o great_a governor_n of_o all_o thing_n add_v a_o thousand_o sharp_a thing_n to_o it_o and_o make_v that_o become_v intolerable_a which_o religion_n will_v have_v make_v to_o sit_v light_n and_o easy_a again_o content_a be_v destroy_v by_o irreligion_n because_o it_o persuade_v man_n that_o their_o whole_a interest_n lie_v here_o below_o either_o by_o make_v they_o believe_v there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n as_o another_o world_n or_o else_o by_o engage_v they_o so_o fast_o to_o this_o as_o to_o hinder_v their_o attend_v to_o any_o thing_n beyond_o this_o life_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o be_v great_a eagerness_n in_o acquire_v these_o low_a good_n impatient_a desire_n of_o still_o more_o and_o more_o of_o the_o world_n as_o that_o in_o which_o be_v concentre_v their_o whole_a happiness_n and_o what_o else_o can_v be_v the_o consequence_n of_o this_o amid_o the_o great_a uncertainty_n that_o attend_v these_o sublunary_a thing_n but_o a_o world_n of_o trouble_n and_o discontent_n answerable_a to_o those_o numerous_a cross_a accident_n and_o disappointment_n which_o every_o condition_n be_v full_a of_o from_o the_o high_a to_o the_o low_a every_o unlucky_a hit_v to_o such_o man_n be_v like_o a_o dagger_n stab_v to_o the_o very_a heart_n for_o that_o which_o a_o man_n look_v upon_o as_o his_o chief_a good_a he_o can_v by_o no_o mean_n endure_v to_o have_v lessen_v and_o impair_v and_o the_o world_n be_v so_o full_a of_o such_o vexatious_a mishap_n how_o full_a of_o wound_n must_v be_v the_o spirit_n of_o a_o ungodly_a worldling_n and_o as_o content_v so_o satisfaction_n of_o mind_n which_o be_v much_o more_o than_o a_o submissive_a acquiescence_n in_o our_o present_a condition_n and_o suppose_v a_o happiness_n that_o be_v complete_a and_o full_a this_o be_v a_o blessing_n which_o nothing_o but_o sincere_a religion_n can_v ever_o make_v the_o soul_n experience_n and_o he_o only_o that_o have_v learned_a to_o make_v god_n the_o chief_a object_n of_o his_o affection_n and_o desire_n can_v indeed_o know_v what_o satisfaction_n be_v for_o every_o thing_n beside_o god_n be_v unsatisfy_v because_o flit_a and_o momentary_a and_o very_o imperfect_a and_o empty_a of_o that_o infinite_a good_a which_o be_v the_o only_a adequate_a object_n of_o that_o infinite_a desire_n of_o happiness_n which_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o man._n this_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o man_n be_v so_o constant_o disappoint_v in_o their_o expectation_n of_o happiness_n from_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o this_o world_n be_v good_a let_v they_o continual_o have_v what_o they_o desire_v which_o yet_o be_v too_o much_o to_o be_v rational_o suppose_v of_o any_o man_n and_o enjoy_v it_o full_o and_o without_o control_v yet_o still_o there_o will_v be_v 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possible_o desire_v but_o be_v in_o the_o divine_a nature_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o excellency_n and_o perfection_n and_o that_o not_o only_o for_o a_o time_n but_o to_o all_o eternity_n all_o the_o capacity_n of_o the_o soul_n must_v needs_o be_v fill_v with_o a_o infinite_a good_a and_o entire_o rest_v in_o it_o as_o in_o the_o very_a centre_n of_o happiness_n three_o religion_n be_v of_o very_o great_a value_n with_o respect_n to_o this_o world_n because_o it_o be_v so_o great_o conducive_a to_o a_o long_a and_o healthy_a life_n in_o it_o long_o life_n and_o health_n be_v that_o which_o all_o people_n natural_o covet_v and_o be_v indeed_o a_o very_a great_a blessing_n and_o that_o not_o only_o because_o the_o long_a man_n live_v and_o the_o more_o vigorous_a they_o be_v the_o long_o and_o more_o full_o they_o enjoy_v or_o at_o least_o hope_v to_o enjoy_v the_o good_a thing_n of_o this_o world_n which_o yet_o with_o too_o many_o be_v the_o main_a consideration_n but_o likewise_o and_o chief_o because_o they_o have_v more_o time_n and_o great_a opportunity_n to_o provide_v for_o the_o happiness_n of_o the_o eternal_a life_n to_o come_v and_o heap_v up_o still_o great_a treasure_n of_o glory_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n now_o this_o great_a blessing_n nothing_o be_v more_o likely_a to_o help_v a_o man_n to_o than_o religion_n for_o first_o it_o engage_v man_n to_o live_v regular_o and_o temperate_o moderate_v the_o appetite_n of_o eat_v and_o drink_v and_o curb_v the_o exorbitant_a desire_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o by_o allow_v no_o more_o than_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o comfortable_a support_n of_o nature_n make_v no_o provision_n for_o those_o many_o destructive_a disease_n which_o be_v always_o the_o attendant_n of_o excess_n how_o many_o of_o the_o mean_a sort_n by_o labour_n and_o course_n fare_v protract_v their_o day_n than_o of_o the_o rich_a who_o live_v in_o ease_n and_o luxury_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a because_o the_o 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injurious_a to_o they_o either_o in_o this_o world_n or_o in_o the_o next_o shall_v there_o be_v any_o after_o this_o and_o therefore_o since_o the_o witty_a infidel_n in_o the_o world_n can_v prove_v but_o that_o it_o be_v possible_a and_o may_v be_v true_a that_o jesus_n be_v the_o only_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o consequence_n of_o not_o believe_v in_o he_o be_v so_o sad_a shall_v it_o at_o length_n prove_v indeed_o to_o be_v true_a certain_o it_o must_v be_v the_o most_o prudent_a course_n to_o be_v of_o the_o sure_a side_n and_o embrace_v that_o faith_n which_o if_o true_a be_v the_o only_a way_n to_o happiness_n and_o if_o false_a will_v not_o however_o leave_v a_o man_n in_o any_o respect_n in_o a_o worse_a condition_n than_o it_o find_v he_o how_o sad_a the_o consequence_n will_v be_v of_o not_o believe_v in_o jesus_n as_o the_o only_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n and_o of_o reject_v the_o religion_n he_o teach_v be_v express_v in_o this_o parable_n by_o the_o king_n be_v pronounce_v those_o that_o will_v not_o come_v to_o the_o marriage_n of_o his_o son_n to_o be_v unworthy_a of_o that_o favour_n and_o resolve_v that_o they_o shall_v not_o taste_v of_o his_o supper_n and_o send_v his_o servant_n to_o invite_v other_o to_o the_o wedding_n which_o be_v literal_o verify_v upon_o the_o obstinate_a jew_n and_o will_v be_v as_o effectual_o upon_o all_o other_o infidel_n that_o be_v man_n obstinate_a infidelity_n shall_v at_o length_n be_v repay_v with_o god_n withdraw_v that_o favour_n which_o he_o so_o long_o tender_v they_o and_o they_o refuse_v and_o put_v a_o end_n to_o their_o day_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n and_o seal_v they_o up_o as_o irreclaimable_a to_o destruction_n because_o i_o have_v call_v and_o you_o refuse_v say_v solomon_n personate_n christ_n or_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n 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 nought_o my_o counsel_n and_o will_v have_v none_o of_o my_o reproof_n i_o also_o will_v laugh_v at_o your_o calamity_n and_o mock_v when_o your_o fear_n come_v when_o your_o fear_n come_v as_o desolation_n and_o your_o destruction_n as_o a_o whirlwind_n when_o distress_n and_o anguish_n come_v upon_o you_o 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 prov._n 1.24_o the_o thing_n that_o belong_v to_o their_o peace_n which_o once_o be_v tender_v and_o make_v know_v to_o they_o shall_v then_o be_v hide_v from_o their_o eye_n and_o no_o condition_n can_v be_v so_o miserable_a as_o they_o who_o by_o obstinate_a infidelity_n put_v themselves_o out_o of_o all_o possibility_n of_o salvation_n the_o sad_a consequence_n of_o use_v those_o spiritual_a person_n contumelious_o and_o despiteful_o who_o come_v as_o ambassador_n from_o god_n with_o these_o glad_a tiding_n of_o salvation_n be_v express_v in_o the_o parable_n by_o the_o king_n be_v send_v 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it_o and_o they_o be_v as_o bad_a who_o though_o they_o profess_v it_o be_v negligent_a of_o its_o duty_n and_o live_v not_o agreeable_o to_o it_o which_o be_v express_v in_o the_o parable_n by_o a_o king_n be_v find_v a_o man_n at_o the_o marriage_n supper_n that_o have_v not_o on_o a_o wedding_n garment_n and_o say_v unto_o he_o friend_n how_o come_v thou_o in_o hither_o not_o have_v on_o a_o wedding_n garment_n and_o the_o man_n be_v speechless_a upon_o it_o and_o the_o king_n be_v command_v his_o servant_n to_o bind_v he_o hand_n and_o foot_n and_o take_v he_o away_o and_o cast_v he_o into_o outer_a darkness_n where_o shall_v be_v weep_v and_o gnash_n of_o tooth_n this_o be_v in_o allusion_n to_o what_o be_v customary_a in_o those_o eastern_a country_n the_o have_v peculiar_a florid_n sort_v of_o garment_n on_o purpose_n to_o grace_v such_o festival_n solemnity_n and_o none_o be_v permit_v to_o taste_v of_o those_o feast_n but_o who_o have_v such_o garment_n on_o so_o in_o 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amends_o for_o if_o abundance_n of_o gold_n and_o silver_n will_v certain_o make_v a_o man_n wise_a and_o better_a if_o it_o will_v clear_v his_o apprehension_n or_o strengthen_v his_o memory_n or_o improve_v his_o reason_v if_o it_o will_v make_v he_o more_o prudent_a and_o discreet_a and_o of_o a_o ripe_a judgement_n if_o it_o will_v increase_v piety_n and_o religion_n and_o promote_v a_o godlike_a frame_n of_o spirit_n nay_o if_o it_o will_v but_o so_o much_o as_o refine_v a_o man_n temper_n and_o make_v he_o of_o more_o sweet_a and_o oblige_a behaviour_n or_o regulate_v the_o passion_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o help_v he_o to_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n and_o cure_v anger_n and_o pride_n and_o envy_n and_o lust_n and_o revenge_n or_o the_o like_a if_o abundance_n of_o riches_n will_v work_v any_o of_o these_o good_a effect_n it_o will_v be_v worth_a while_n earnest_o to_o desire_v they_o and_o industrious_o to_o endeavour_v to_o procure_v they_o but_o when_o it_o be_v so_o far_o from_o this_o that_o the_o direct_a contrary_n be_v general_a observable_a in_o those_o that_o have_v great_a riches_n in_o possession_n it_o must_v i_o think_v be_v allow_v to_o be_v a_o very_a great_a piece_n of_o folly_n for_o a_o man_n to_o endure_v so_o much_o for_o what_o when_o he_o have_v it_o will_v not_o countervail_v but_o though_o greedy_a worldling_n may_v own_v that_o great_a riches_n have_v little_a or_o no_o influence_n upon_o the_o happiness_n and_o improvement_n of_o the_o inner_a man_n yet_o because_o a_o man_n have_v a_o body_n as_o well_o as_o a_o soul_n to_o take_v care_n of_o they_o be_v thus_o great_o desirous_a of_o much_o wealth_n because_o it_o will_v help_v they_o to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o much_o of_o this_o world_n happiness_n and_o acquire_v what_o will_v high_o please_v and_o gratify_v the_o body_n as_o the_o rich_a man_n in_o the_o parable_n say_v they_o may_v take_v their_o ease_n eat_v drink_v and_o be_v merry_a when_o they_o have_v much_o good_n lay_v up_o for_o many_o year_n i_o shall_v therefore_o in_o the_o second_o place_n show_v the_o folly_n of_o expect_v even_o this_o world_n happiness_n from_o abundance_n of_o riches_n for_o beside_o that_o the_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n be_v general_o observe_v to_o be_v more_o sickly_a and_o deprave_a in_o rich_a than_o poor_a person_n their_o sleep_n worse_a rather_o than_o better_a than_o other_o man_n 5.12_o eccl._n 5.12_o the_o abundance_n of_o the_o rich_a will_v not_o suffer_v he_o to_o sleep_v say_v solomon_n but_o the_o sleep_n of_o the_o labour_a man_n be_v sweet_a eat_v he_o little_a or_o eat_v he_o much_o and_o that_o health_n be_v much_o more_o a_o stranger_n to_o the_o rich_a than_o to_o the_o mean_a sort_n and_o the_o pleasure_n of_o have_v a_o body_n vigorous_a and_o active_a without_o the_o encumbrance_n of_o weakness_n and_o disease_n almost_o engross_v by_o the_o labour_a poor_a beside_o this_o which_o yet_o alone_o be_v enough_o to_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v a_o folly_n to_o expect_v even_o this_o world_n happiness_n from_o abundance_n of_o riches_n for_o without_o health_n which_o luxury_n destroy_v the_o most_o of_o any_o thing_n there_o be_v no_o taste_n or_o relish_v in_o any_o other_o of_o its_o enjoyment_n there_o be_v this_o one_o reason_n more_o among_o other_o that_o will_v far_o and_o i_o think_v evident_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v a_o very_a great_a folly_n to_o expect_v to_o be_v happy_a even_o in_o this_o world_n by_o grow_v rich_a and_o it_o be_v this_o that_o riches_n be_v of_o all_o thing_n the_o most_o unsatisfy_a and_o the_o most_o perplex_v other_o good_a thing_n of_o this_o world_n do_v in_o some_o sort_n satisfy_v and_o man_n be_v often_o cloy_v with_o pleasure_n have_v enough_o of_o mirth_n and_o jollity_n of_o recreation_n and_o diversion_n and_o the_o like_a and_o the_o mind_n be_v for_o a_o while_n ease_v and_o refresh_v by_o they_o but_o as_o for_o riches_n as_o they_o increase_v the_o desire_n of_o still_o more_o increase_v proportionable_o nay_o rather_o disproportionable_o with_o they_o and_o it_o be_v never_o yet_o know_v that_o a_o worldly-minded_n man_n ever_o think_v he_o have_v enough_o but_o that_o his_o appetite_n grow_v keen_a after_o wealth_n the_o more_o it_o be_v feed_v with_o it_o and_o it_o be_v not_o unusual_a to_o hear_v the_o great_a complaint_n murmur_n and_o repine_n from_o the_o rich_a men._n and_o as_o for_o the_o perplexity_n that_o attend_v abundance_n of_o wealth_n that_o likewise_o be_v as_o evident_a to_o common_a observation_n the_o more_o a_o man_n have_v the_o more_o care_n he_o must_v take_v to_o preserve_v it_o the_o more_o quarrel_n and_o law-suit_n will_v he_o be_v embroil_v in_o and_o when_o there_o be_v trouble_n and_o commotion_n in_o the_o state_n and_o time_n grow_v dangerous_a and_o uncertain_a then_o be_v the_o great_a worldling_n full_a of_o fear_n and_o dreadful_a apprehension_n and_o not_o only_o real_a but_o imaginary_a danger_n terrify_v their_o unman_v soul_n thing_n always_o appear_v with_o the_o worst_a aspect_n to_o their_o trouble_a fancy_n who_o have_v make_v gold_n their_o deity_n and_o tie_v up_o their_o happiness_n in_o their_o bag_n and_o nothing_o certain_o can_v be_v more_o perplex_v to_o a_o man_n mind_n than_o such_o great_a fear_n of_o lose_v that_o in_o the_o possession_n of_o which_o his_o whole_a happiness_n be_v concentre_v and_o according_o solomon_n who_o have_v great_a possession_n above_o all_o that_o be_v before_o he_o and_o gather_v he_o silver_n and_o gold_n in_o such_o abundance_n that_o silver_n be_v in_o jerusalem_n common_a as_o the_o stone_n in_o the_o street_n 10.27_o 1_o king_n 10.27_o after_o all_o say_v he_o eccles_n 5.10_o 11._o he_o that_o love_v silver_n shall_v not_o be_v satisfy_v with_o silver_n nor_o he_o that_o love_v abundance_n with_o increase_n and_o what_o good_a be_v there_o to_o the_o owner_n thereof_o save_v the_o behold_n of_o it_o with_o their_o eye_n and_o even_o the_o eye_n be_v not_o satisfy_v with_o see_v neither_o and_o st._n paul_n say_v very_o plain_o that_o the_o love_n of_o money_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o evil_a and_o they_o that_o will_v be_v rich_a fall_v into_o temptation_n and_o a_o snare_n 10._o 1_o tim._n 6.9_o 10._o and_o pierce_v themselves_o through_o with_o divers_a sorrow_n and_o that_o contentment_n with_o only_a food_n and_o raiment_n be_v a_o far_o great_a happiness_n and_o therefore_o good_a reason_n have_v the_o wise_a king_n to_o say_v after_o all_o his_o increase_n and_o the_o abundance_n he_o have_v amass_v together_o that_o it_o be_v not_o only_a vanity_n but_o vexation_n of_o spirit_n eccles_n 2.11_o now_o that_o which_o can_v never_o satisfy_v and_o as_o it_o increase_v increase_v a_o man_n trouble_n and_o perplexity_n which_o be_v true_a we_o see_v of_o riches_n be_v no_o doubt_n far_o from_o conduce_v to_o a_o man_n happiness_n in_o this_o world_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o very_a great_a folly_n for_o any_o man_n to_o depend_v upon_o abundance_n of_o wealth_n for_o happiness_n for_o it_o be_v rather_o the_o cause_n of_o much_o trouble_n and_o disquietude_n or_o however_o god_n may_v sudden_o deprive_v a_o rich_a worldling_n of_o all_o he_o have_v by_o death_n and_o say_v as_o in_o the_o parable_n thou_o fool_n this_o night_n shall_v thy_o soul_n be_v require_v of_o thou_o than_o who_o shall_v those_o thing_n be_v which_o thou_o have_v provide_v for_o as_o we_o bring_v nothing_o into_o the_o world_n so_o it_o be_v certain_a we_o can_v carry_v nothing_o out_o and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o folly_n of_o immoderate_a desire_n of_o riches_n in_o expectation_n of_o a_o happy_a life_n from_o abundance_n i_o proceed_v now_o to_o show_v the_o vileness_n of_o this_o sort_n of_o covetousness_n and_o of_o place_v the_o happiness_n of_o life_n in_o great_a store_n of_o wealth_n that_o it_o be_v a_o very_a vile_a thing_n for_o a_o man_n immoderate_o to_o covet_v riches_n and_o place_v the_o happiness_n of_o his_o life_n in_o abundance_n of_o they_o will_v be_v very_o evident_a if_o we_o brief_o consider_v what_o a_o man_n be_v and_o what_o abundance_n of_o wealth_n be_v and_o what_o little_a or_o no_o proportion_n the_o one_o bear_n to_o the_o dignity_n of_o the_o other_o a_o man_n be_v a_o creature_n endow_v with_o a_o rational_a and_o immortal_a soul_n capable_a of_o know_v admire_v love_v and_o enjoy_v god_n who_o be_v the_o supreme_a good_a and_o the_o centre_n of_o felicity_n as_o a_o christian_n he_o be_v a_o adopt_a son_n of_o god_n coheir_n with_o christ_n of_o a_o crown_n of_o glory_n in_o the_o eternal_a kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o design_v to_o participate_v of_o those_o river_n of_o divine_a pleasure_n that_o be_v at_o god_n right-hand_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o as_o for_o
duty_n of_o a_o good_a steward_n be_v thus_o represent_v in_o the_o 42d_o verse_n of_o this_o 12_o of_o luke_n who_o then_o be_v that_o faithful_a and_o wise_a steward_n who_o his_o lord_n shall_v make_v ruler_n over_o his_o household_n to_o give_v they_o their_o portion_n of_o meat_n in_o due_a season_n that_o be_v to_o give_v the_o family_n their_o portion_n in_o due_a season_n be_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o faithful_a and_o good_a steward_n now_o the_o race_n of_o mankind_n be_v god_n great_a family_n in_o the_o world_n and_o some_o of_o the_o member_n of_o this_o his_o family_n he_o have_v make_v choice_n of_o as_o his_o steward_n and_o purveyor_n to_o provide_v for_o the_o rest_n and_o have_v according_a entrust_v they_o with_o such_o a_o share_n of_o his_o revenue_n to_o some_o more_o to_o some_o less_o as_o in_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n he_o have_v think_v most_o fit_a and_o order_v they_o to_o expend_v it_o to_o the_o advantage_n of_o his_o household_n that_o every_o one_o be_v provide_v for_o according_a to_o his_o needs_o and_o that_o no_o man_n be_v suffer_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v to_o be_v miserable_a and_o perish_v and_o this_o he_o require_v shall_v be_v do_v faithful_o after_o a_o moderate_a provision_n first_o make_v for_o themselves_o and_o relative_n as_o they_o shall_v answer_v it_o at_o that_o great_a audit_n when_o every_o man_n must_v give_v account_n of_o his_o stewardship_n the_o rich_a man_n then_o in_o the_o gospel_n be_v as_o every_o other_o rich_a man_n be_v god_n steward_n to_o provide_v for_o such_o as_o be_v in_o necessity_n and_o want_n according_a to_o the_o abundance_n god_n have_v give_v he_o it_o be_v a_o easy_a matter_n to_o answer_v the_o question_n he_o propose_v to_o himself_o upon_o his_o great_a increase_n what_o shall_v i_o do_v because_o i_o have_v no_o room_n where_o to_o lay_v my_o fruit_n why_o act_n like_o a_o good_a steward_n for_o thy_o great_a master_n and_o let_v the_o house_n of_o the_o poor_a be_v the_o granary_n for_o the_o abundance_n of_o thy_o increase_n charity_n to_o the_o necessitous_a be_v the_o best_a way_n of_o bestow_v abundance_n and_o as_o many_o way_n as_o there_o be_v of_o express_v that_o charity_n which_o be_v innumerable_a so_o many_o way_n be_v there_o of_o dispose_n of_o what_o be_v more_o than_o needful_a for_o our_o own_o comfortable_a support_n to_o feed_v the_o hungry_a to_o give_v drink_n to_o the_o thirsty_a harbour_n to_o distress_a stranger_n clothes_n to_o the_o naked_a visit_v of_o comfort_n and_o relief_n to_o the_o sick_a and_o freedom_n to_o prisoner_n to_o be_v a_o father_n to_o the_o fatherless_a and_o a_o husband_n to_o the_o widow_n and_o the_o like_a this_o be_v to_o discharge_v a_o good_a stewardship_n this_o be_v what_o every_o rich_a man_n ought_v to_o do_v with_o his_o abundance_n and_o blessed_n be_v that_o good_a servant_n who_o his_o lord_n when_o he_o come_v shall_v find_v so_o do_v of_o a_o truth_n say_v our_o lord_n his_o master_n will_v make_v he_o ruler_n over_o all_o that_o he_o have_v he_o will_v commit_v still_o more_o of_o his_o revenue_n to_o his_o management_n bless_v he_o with_o great_a prosperity_n and_o increase_n and_o at_o last_o he_o shall_v be_v receive_v into_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o lord_n and_o reign_v with_o christ_n his_o great_a master_n in_o glory_n for_o ever_o whoever_o therefore_o have_v abundance_n need_v not_o much_o to_o perplex_v himself_o how_o he_o shall_v bestow_v it_o for_o the_o poor_a be_v always_o with_o we_o and_o for_o the_o relief_n of_o their_o necessity_n not_o the_o gratify_a our_o own_o luxurious_a desire_n must_v god_n extraordinary_a blessing_n be_v lay_v out_o let_v we_o now_o in_o the_o four_o place_n consider_v the_o great_a wisdom_n of_o not_o set_v our_o heart_n upon_o nor_o eager_o pursue_v riches_n and_o dispose_v of_o they_o as_o religion_n direct_v if_o it_o shall_v please_v god_n in_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n to_o bless_v we_o with_o they_o if_o riches_n increase_v set_v not_o your_o heart_n upon_o they_o be_v excellent_a advice_n of_o the_o royal_a psalmist_n psal_n 62.10_o and_o very_o true_a be_v that_o of_o st._n paul_n to_o timothy_n ephes_n 1.6_o 10._o that_o while_n some_o have_v covet_v after_o money_n they_o have_v err_v from_o the_o faith_n and_o pierce_v themselves_o through_o with_o divers_a sorrow_n and_o that_o godliness_n with_o content_a be_v great_a gain_n and_o therefore_o wise_a indeed_o be_v that_o man_n that_o know_v how_o to_o be_v content_a with_o his_o present_a portion_n and_o by_o set_v his_o affection_n upon_o more_o noble_a object_n escape_v the_o snare_n of_o covet_v after_o wealth_n he_o be_v free_a from_o the_o most_o dangerous_a passion_n the_o love_n of_o money_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o evil_a and_o be_v secure_a of_o quiet_a and_o satisfaction_n amid_o all_o the_o turn_v and_o variety_n of_o fortune_n the_o great_a uncertainty_n of_o a_o false_a and_o fickle_a world_n if_o poverty_n shall_v become_v his_o lot_n he_o be_v prepare_v for_o it_o he_o know_v there_o be_v no_o stability_n in_o this_o world_n be_v good_a and_o therefore_o value_v it_o according_o and_o remember_v that_o he_o have_v a_o much_o great_a treasure_n in_o a_o better_a place_n of_o which_o none_o can_v deprive_v he_o and_o which_o he_o shall_v enjoy_v to_o eternity_n and_o upon_o that_o fix_v his_o affection_n and_o belong_v for_o the_o happy_a time_n when_o he_o shall_v take_v possession_n of_o it_o while_o he_o have_v a_o plentiful_a fortune_n he_o act_v like_o a_o good_a steward_n of_o his_o great_a lord_n and_o enjoy_v the_o comfort_n of_o it_o by_o let_v those_o share_n with_o he_o that_o want_v a_o supply_n and_o thank_v god_n that_o he_o be_v so_o bless_a as_o to_o give_v rather_o than_o receive_v and_o in_o every_o respect_n make_v the_o best_a use_n he_o can_v of_o what_o he_o have_v to_o the_o advancement_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o great_a patron_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o brethren_n and_o then_o can_v step_v secure_o though_o danger_n and_o misfortune_n threaten_v if_o god_n think_v fit_a to_o divert_v they_o and_o continue_v to_o he_o what_o he_o have_v he_o know_v he_o can_v do_v it_o if_o not_o he_o know_v that_o all_o will_v end_v for_o the_o best_a at_o last_o and_o so_o cheerful_o resign_v what_o god_n before_o have_v lend_v he_o he_o be_v satisfy_v that_o happiness_n do_v not_o consist_v in_o abundance_n and_o that_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o continual_a feast_n and_o therefore_o his_o main_a endeavour_n be_v to_o preserve_v a_o good_a conscience_n a_o soul_n clear_a and_o unspotted_a and_o with_o that_o coarse_a fare_n will_v relish_v well_o and_o a_o homely_a garment_n sit_v easy_a upon_o he_o and_o such_o necessary_n as_o these_o he_o that_o feed_v the_o raven_n and_o clothes_n the_o lily_n will_v sure_o provide_v for_o he_o and_o he_o that_o be_v thus_o dispose_v must_v needs_o be_v in_o perpetual_a tranquillity_n and_o peace_n and_o very_o wise_a consequent_o in_o take_v that_o course_n which_o help_v he_o to_o those_o inestimable_a blessing_n as_o for_o the_o wisdom_n of_o dispose_n of_o abundance_n when_o god_n think_v fit_a to_o bless_v a_o man_n with_o it_o according_a to_o the_o direction_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o relief_n of_o the_o poor_a and_o needy_a there_o need_v nothing_o more_o to_o recommend_v it_o to_o christian_n than_o for_o they_o to_o read_v the_o latter_a part_n of_o mat._n 25._o where_o we_o be_v inform_v that_o the_o express_v of_o man_n charity_n shall_v at_o the_o great_a day_n of_o judgement_n be_v particular_o inquire_v into_o and_o the_o charitable_a reward_v infinite_o with_o glory_n and_o happiness_n in_o heaven_n and_o the_o uncharitable_a doom_v as_o accurse_a person_n to_o depart_v from_o god_n the_o fountain_n of_o bliss_n into_o everlasting_a torment_n prepare_v for_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o angel_n and_o if_o so_o to_o direct_v our_o step_n in_o this_o world_n as_o to_o avoid_v the_o misery_n of_o hell_n and_o arrive_v at_o the_o unspeakable_a happy_a kingdom_n of_o heaven_n be_v the_o great_a wisdom_n then_o be_v it_o the_o great_a wisdom_n by_o a_o charitable_a disposal_n of_o man_n abundance_n to_o the_o poor_a to_o make_v provision_n against_o that_o great_a day_n of_o final_a retribution_n when_o charity_n shall_v be_v so_o particular_o inquire_v into_o and_o so_o high_o reward_v there_o remain_v nothing_o now_o to_o be_v do_v but_o to_o urge_v what_o have_v be_v say_v upon_o man_n practice_n we_o have_v see_v in_o this_o discourse_n how_o great_a folly_n it_o be_v eager_o to_o desire_n and_o pursue_v abundance_n of_o wealth_n that_o it_o be_v very_o uncertain_a whether_o ever_o such_o desire_n shall_v be_v gratify_v or_o no_o and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o satisfaction_n in_o
that_o he_o will_v turn_v away_o that_o fierce_a anger_n from_o he_o which_o he_o be_v very_o sensible_a he_o have_v but_o too_o much_o deserve_v thus_o david_n frame_v a_o psalm_n on_o purpose_n to_o confess_v and_o bewail_v his_o great_a transgression_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o uriah_n he_o than_o forget_v all_o that_o be_v good_a in_o he_o and_o do_v not_o expect_v that_o his_o former_a excellent_a piety_n shall_v cover_v and_o make_v amends_o for_o those_o foul_a sin_n he_o do_v not_o search_v for_o excuse_n and_o endeavour_v to_o extenuate_v his_o gild_n but_o like_o a_o true_o humble_a penitent_n change_v his_o usual_a strain_n of_o praise_n and_o thansgiving_n for_o the_o accent_n of_o grief_n and_o shame_n and_o better_a remorse_n acknowledge_v his_o transgression_n and_o have_v his_o sin_n ever_o before_o he_o and_o with_o the_o most_o pathetic_a earnestness_n of_o a_o break_a and_o contrite_a heart_n beg_v god_n forgiveness_n and_o that_o he_o will_v again_o great_a in_o he_o a_o clean_a heart_n and_o renew_v a_o right_a spirit_n within_o he_o as_o if_o those_o his_o great_a wickedness_n have_v not_o only_o pollute_v all_o that_o before_o be_v good_a in_o he_o but_o quite_o destroy_v the_o rectitude_n and_o integrity_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o as_o david_n so_o s._n peter_n when_o he_o reflect_v upon_o the_o great_a baseness_n of_o deny_v his_o divine_a master_n and_o saviour_n his_o spirit_n be_v so_o true_o humble_v that_o without_o endeavour_v in_o the_o least_o to_o conceal_v or_o palliate_v his_o fault_n he_o go_v out_o and_o weep_v bitter_o and_o so_o the_o publican_n in_o the_o parable_n will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o lift_v up_o his_o eye_n to_o heaven_n but_o stand_v afar_o off_o in_o the_o court_n of_o the_o gentile_n which_o be_v the_o low_a of_o all_o and_o with_o great_a compunction_n of_o spirit_n smite_v upon_o his_o breast_n and_o say_v god_n be_v merciful_a to_o i_o a_o sinner_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o first_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v upon_o this_o parable_n which_o be_v to_o show_v what_o the_o grace_n of_o spiritual_a humility_n be_v viz._n a_o not_o overvalue_a our_o spiritual_a excellency_n nor_o ourselves_o by_o reason_n of_o they_o nor_o despise_v other_o as_o less_o holy_a but_o return_v all_o the_o glory_n to_o god_n who_o make_v we_o to_o differ_v nor_o undervalue_v or_o endeavour_v to_o excuse_v and_o extenuate_v our_o wickedness_n but_o a_o impartial_a consider_v the_o vileness_n and_o great_a aggravation_n of_o they_o and_o sincere_a humble_v ourselves_o for_o they_o at_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v be_v to_o show_v how_o excellent_a and_o beneficial_a this_o virtue_n be_v in_o our_o christian_a course_n and_o how_o vile_a and_o mischievous_a the_o contrary_a vice_n be_v it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a argument_n that_o this_o virtue_n be_v very_o excellent_a and_o of_o great_a benefit_n to_o christian_n that_o our_o lord_n have_v place_v it_o in_o the_o front_n of_o his_o beatitude_n which_o he_o begin_v thus_o bless_a be_v the_o poor_a in_o spirit_n like_o a_o wise_a master-builder_n he_o lay_v the_o foundation_n low_a of_o a_o building_n that_o be_v to_o reach_v so_o very_o high_a and_o humbleness_n of_o mind_n must_v be_v the_o groundwork_n of_o that_o religion_n which_o will_v advance_v a_o man_n to_o heaven_n piety_n without_o humility_n be_v very_o apt_a to_o make_v man_n top-heavy_a and_o overset_a like_o a_o ship_n without_o her_o ballast_n it_o be_v this_o that_o preserve_v the_o soul_n unshaken_a amid_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o world_n as_o that_o make_v a_o ship_n sail_v sure_a and_o steady_a amid_o the_o mighty_a billow_n the_o house_n in_o the_o gospel_n that_o be_v found_v upon_o a_o sandy_a surface_n of_o the_o earth_n soon_o yield_v to_o the_o fury_n of_o the_o tempest_n and_o great_a be_v the_o fall_n of_o it_o our_o lord_n therefore_o begin_v with_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n as_o the_o basis_n and_o great_a security_n of_o all_o his_o other_o building_n which_o he_o foresee_v and_o foretell_v be_v to_o undergo_v the_o shock_n of_o many_o a_o furious_a storm_n and_o contend_v with_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n but_o more_o particular_o this_o grace_n of_o spiritual_a humility_n be_v so_o excellent_a and_o high_o beneficial_a that_o nothing_o more_o conduce_v to_o a_o man_n spiritual_a growth_n and_o increase_v in_o virtue_n nor_o render_v he_o more_o dear_a both_o to_o god_n and_o man._n first_o nothing_o more_o conduce_v to_o a_o man_n spiritual_a growth_n and_o increase_v in_o virtue_n for_o it_o be_v very_o true_a in_o religion_n as_o well_o as_o in_o worldly_a affair_n that_o nothing_o make_v man_n more_o industrious_a than_o a_o due_a sense_n of_o their_o want_n and_o the_o poorness_n of_o their_o stock_n whereas_o when_o a_o man_n think_v he_o have_v abundance_n he_o be_v general_o slothful_a and_o careless_a and_o impoverishment_n become_v his_o lot_n rather_o than_o a_o far_a improvement_n a_o humble_a sense_n of_o a_o man_n imperfection_n and_o sin_n will_v make_v he_o double_o diligent_a and_o consequent_o to_o improve_v great_o in_o the_o school_n of_o righteousness_n but_o haughty_a conceitedness_n will_v certain_o make_v he_o grow_v worse_o and_o worse_o nay_o there_o will_v be_v no_o end_n of_o the_o humble_a mind_a man_n improvement_n for_o it_o be_v always_o find_v in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o virtue_n as_o well_o as_o of_o knowledge_n that_o the_o more_o real_a virtue_n increase_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o good_a man_n the_o more_o and_o great_a the_o defect_n of_o his_o virtue_n appear_v to_o be_v and_o consequent_o the_o more_o will_v his_o diligence_n be_v quicken_v and_o spur_v on_o as_o st._n paul_n the_o far_o he_o advance_v in_o the_o christian_a race_n the_o more_o conscious_a he_o grow_v that_o he_o have_v not_o yet_o apprehend_v what_o he_o endeavour_v after_o and_o be_v not_o yet_o perfect_a and_o that_o make_v he_o forget_v what_o be_v behind_o his_o former_a attainment_n and_o reach_v out_o to_o what_o be_v still_o before_o what_o he_o have_v not_o yet_o attain_v to_o and_o eager_o press_v forward_o to_o the_o mark_n the_o prize_n of_o the_o high_a call_v of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n now_o the_o consequence_n of_o this_o extraordinary_a diligence_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o extraordinary_a growth_n and_o increase_n and_o so_o still_o onward_o in_o a_o quick_a and_o vigorous_a motion_n till_o he_o finish_v his_o virtuous_a race_n and_o be_v perfect_a as_o his_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n be_v perfect_a and_o as_o this_o spiritual_a humility_n make_v a_o man_n move_v swift_o in_o the_o christian_a course_n so_o it_o make_v he_o tread_v sure_o too_o it_o balance_n he_o and_o keep_v he_o upon_o his_o centre_n and_o secure_v he_o from_o those_o dangerous_a fall_n which_o too_o often_o be_v the_o fate_n of_o the_o high-minded_a and_o proud_a for_o it_o be_v pride_n and_o haughtiness_n of_o spirit_n we_o know_v that_o ruine_v the_o prince_n of_o the_o fall_v angel_n and_o his_o accomplice_n but_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n be_v the_o great_a security_n of_o a_o christian_a against_o the_o subtle_a art_n of_o the_o tempter_n it_o be_v the_o proper_a mark_n and_o character_n of_o a_o disciple_n of_o the_o meek_a lowly_a jesus_n and_o be_v a_o disposition_n of_o mind_n the_o most_o of_o all_o apt_a for_o repentance_n which_o be_v a_o grace_n of_o infinite_a value_n as_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o entitle_v a_o man_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n to_o the_o divine_a aid_n and_o assistance_n for_o god_n give_v grace_n to_o the_o humble_a second_o as_o this_o spiritual_a humility_n be_v of_o the_o great_a benefit_n to_o a_o christian_a so_o do_v it_o render_v he_o high_o dear_a both_o to_o god_n and_o man._n all_o man_n love_v a_o humble_a man_n and_o look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o wise_a and_o extraordinary_a person_n and_o he_o that_o be_v pious_a and_o circumspect_a in_o his_o conversation_n and_o yet_o be_v not_o proud_a of_o it_o nor_o despise_v or_o haughty_o reflect_v upon_o other_o that_o live_v more_o at_o large_a than_o he_o do_v but_o advise_v they_o better_o seasonable_o and_o with_o meekness_n and_o humility_n such_o a_o man_n be_v esteem_v as_o a_o person_n send_v from_o god_n to_o do_v good_a to_o mankind_n that_o see_v his_o good_a work_n mix_v with_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n they_o may_v be_v incline_v to_o imitate_v so_o lovely_a a_o example_n and_o glorify_v their_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n by_o tread_v in_o his_o step_n and_o as_o for_o god_n s._n peter_n and_o s._n james_n and_o the_o wise_a of_o man_n all_o agree_v that_o he_o resist_v the_o proud_a but_o give_v grace_n to_o the_o humble_a and_o our_o lord_n himself_o at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o parable_n we_o